Essex County Archives – Massachusetts Genealogy

Who is John Adams of Salem?

The article explores the identity of a John Adams recorded in 1636 for running away from his master Thorndike in Salem, Massachusetts. The entry reveals that “Jno.” stands for John, and “mr” indicates his status as an indentured servant. The investigation suggests he may be John Adams Jr., the son of a deceased father and a remarried mother, who likely faced harsh conditions leading to his escape attempt. Despite limited documentation, clues regarding Thorndike’s identity and circumstances surrounding young Adams provide insight into the life of this historical figure.

The Landing at Parker River

Plaque commemorating the landing place of first settlers of Newbury

In February 1633-34, the Council for New England imposed regulations on ships transporting passengers to Massachusetts Bay. The ship “Mary and John” brought settlers, including Thomas Parker and others, who initially settled in Ipswich before moving to Quascacunquen (later Newbury) in 1635. Their arrival marked the establishment of a new plantation amidst challenging conditions, which they overcame by cultivating the land and developing resources. The General Court supported their settlement, allowing land for sheep and cattle, indicating their intent to establish a sustainable community. The pioneers faced numerous difficulties but persevered in building their new lives.

Brief History of Newbury Massachusetts

Newbury, founded by English tradespeople, became a significant settlement between April 1634 and July 1635. The settlers were driven not by religious persecution but by the desire to exploit unoccupied lands and establish a profitable livestock business. Despite the initial hardships and dangers, the town grew steadily, becoming a cradle of many firsts in America and ultimately evolving into a serene New England town rich in history and heritage.

First Settlers of Newbury Massachusetts

This listing was extracted by Joshua Coffin from the proprietor’s book of records, folio forty-four. The record is dated December 1642 and is the first known list of the first Settlers of Newbury.

Historic USGS Maps of Ayers Village, Massachusetts Quadrangle

Southwest Corner of 1955 Ayers Village, Massachusetts USGS Topographical Map

These maps are part of USGS Topographical Maps made since 1882. They’ve been broken down into quadrangle’s to make viewing them easier. We have digital copies of two different series for the Ayers Village, Massachusetts Quadrangle. One where Massachusetts portion was surveyed in 1942 and published in 1943; and another where they revised the Massachusetts portion in 1952, used New Hampshire aerial photographs taken in 1953 and fact checked those against a 1954 and 1955 field survey of New Hampshire, these were published in 1955. For information about these maps see Historic USGS Topographical Maps. 1943 Ayers Village, Massachusetts Quadrangle … Read more

Pre 1662 Lot Owners in Andover Massachusetts

This article lists the names of early Andover settlers who received house lots before 1662, along with the original and final sizes of their lots in acres. Notable figures include George Abbot, Simon Bradstreet, and John Frye, with lot sizes varying significantly, from 4 to 88 acres.

Haverhill, Massachusetts Genealogy

The Indian name for this locality was “Pentucket” – but the early settlers applied the name of Haverhill in compliment to Rev. John Ward, the first minister, who came from Haverhill, England. “Mr. Ward & Newberry men” petitioned the General Court on May 13, 1640, for permission to begin a new plantation on the Merrimack river, which was granted provided “they build there before the next Courte.” Though the town was settled and houses erected in 1640 it was not until November 15, 1642, that a title to the land was purchased of the Indian owners. In June, 1641, the … Read more

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