Family Group Sheet

 

 

Subject: Rev. John M. MAXSON

Biography: __ ___ ____ _______________, _______________, _______________, _______________; John Maxson, born in 1638. Married Mary, the daughter of Hugh Mosher, who was also one of the purchasers of Misquanicut. She was born in 1640. Soon after settling in Mesquanicut, John and Mary Maxson embraced the Sabbath, and joined the church at Newport. When the Westerly congregation was set off as a separate church he was ordained to be its first pastor and served until his death, December 17, 1720. His wife died February 2, 1718. They had seven children, Tacy, John Jr., Joseph, and Jonathan, Dorothy, Mary, and Hannah.

 

John Maxson Sr., represented Westerly in the Colonial Assembly in1 670, 1686, 1687, 1688, 1689, 1690, 1693, 1705. He and his wife were buried in the Clarke burying ground, near the old meeting house. His grave was marked with a blue slate stone, upon which was the following inscription: "Here lieth the body of John Maxson, died Dec. ye 17, 1720, in the 82nd year of his age." In 1884 their remains were removed to the "Circle". (Andrews, Mary S.; A Brief History of a few Early Settlers of Rhode Island and some of their Descendants; 1910; Farina, IL; transcribed by Daisy (Vincent) Schrader, 5 June 1926; http://www.lauricellas.com/clint/richmnt.htm; downloaded 18 June 2004).

Biography: __ ___ ____ _______________, _______________, _______________, _______________; MAXSON FAMILY

 

Maxson and Maxon family records point to Rhode Island and converge to John Maxson, Sr. and wife Mary Mosher of Newport and Westerly, R.I. Mary (Mosher) Maxson was a daughter of Hugh Mosher. She died Feb. 2, 1718. Hugh Mosher came to Salem, Massachusetts, in 1632. Later he was one of five who owned the township of Westerly, R.I. John Maxson was a native of R.I. and was of the second generation in America. No descendants of his parents, other than the descendants of John Maxson, have been discovered; accordingly the records which follow, though tracing return to the parents of John Maxson, the emigrant family, are usually indicated as originating with John Maxson, Sr. and wife Mary (Mosher) Maxson.

 

There is a tradition recorded in the diary of G.H. Richardson, now in the collections of the Newport Historical Society, which reads: "Today, Dec. 20, 1720, died John Maxson Dr., age 82 yrs. He lost his father and brother Richard who were attacked and killed by the Indians. Mrs. Maxson escaped in a shallop to Acquetneck and her son was born soon after the landing in the spring of 1638 before the purchase of the island from the Indians. He was the first white child born on the island of Rhode Island." Be this as it may, in 1639, Richard Maxson was one of the 14 men who signed their names, 15 others making their marks to the following:

 

"We whose names are underwritten do acknowledge legal subjects of his majesty, King Charles and in his name do bind ourselves into a civil body polotike unto his laws according to matters of justice." The 29 men were of the settlement which later was called Acquetneck (R.I. Records, Vol. I, p. 70). Mar. 6, 1640 ownership of 36 acres was recorded to Richard Maxson of Acquetneck.

 

Richard's widow, goodwife, deeded away her property in 1644.

 

There is mention of one Maxson family, and only one has been found in the records of Massachusetts and R.I. before the time of John Maxson and family. Richard Maggsen was admitted to the church in Boston Aug. 2, 1634, a journeyman blacksmith employed by James Everell who was a "shoemaker" and had a tanyard. Dec. 7, 1638 complaints were made against one Richard Maxson at Portsmouth charging oppression in the way of his trade (blacksmith). He promised amendment and satisfaction.

 

From various sources the tradition is persistent that John Maxson's parents with others from Entland attempted a settlement at Throg's point, sometimes called Maxson's Point, about the beginning of the pequoit War. They were driven from their homes by the Indians and took refuge in a shallop. The next day Richard Maxson and his son Richard, said to have been 13 years old, and other men landed again to get goods and food when all were massacred by the Indians. Mrs. Maxson and others left on the boat escaped and after a trying voyage landed on the Island of Rhode Island where her son John was born in the spring of 1638. (Andrews, Mary S.; A Brief History of a few Early Settlers of Rhode Island and some of their Descendants; 1910; Farina, IL; transcribed by Daisy (Vincent) Schrader, 5 June 1926; http://www.lauricellas.com/clint/richmnt.htm; downloaded 18 June 2004).

 

The names Maxson and Maxon have variations in spelling as listed in the Census: Maxin; Maxen; Maxam; and other spellings. But we have found no descendents of John(2) Maxson who spell their names other than Maxson or Maxon. There were Maxham and Maxam families early in Mass. and eastern N.Y. Maxham and Maxam are given in the Appendix to carefully separate Maxham and Maxam from Maxson and Maxon.

 

In 1661 John(2) Maxson with others formed a company at Newport for purchasing and settling a tract of land called by the Indians Misquamcut which now comprises Westerly, Charlestown, and Hopkinton, R.I. He was married about 1665 and was made freeman at Westerly Oct. 29, 1668. He served as deputy to the general assembly from Westerly 1670, 1686, 1690, and 1705. He was overseer of the poor 1687. The colony of Westerly had connected itself as a branch to the Newport Seventy Day Baptist church of which William Hiscox was pastor. John Maxson Sr. was ordained to the office of Elder (pastor) to the congregation in and about Westerly, now called the First Hopkinton S.D.B.C. at Ashway, R.I.

 

John(2) Maxson made his will Jan. 22, 1716 which was probated Feb. 16, 1721. He was buried in the Clark burying ground near the Paytucket river where on a slate stone was the following inscription: "Here lieth the body of John Maxson, died Dec. 17, 1720 inthe 82nd year of his life". The early ministers of the First Hopkinton church have been reinterred on the spot where the church stood and a monument has been erected to their memory. (See p. 58 Brown-Hakes and Allied Families.) (Brown, Maxson Family, p. 1-2.)

Biography: __ ___ ____ _______________, _______________, _______________, _______________; Rev. John Maxson, 1st, was born in 1638, "being the first white child born on the island of Rhode Island." At his birth, his mother was a widow, his father having lately been killed by the Pequots. In 1661, we find him among the purchasers of Misquamicut, and his name is in the first roll of freemen in Westerly in 1669. On the organization of the Sabbatarian church in Westerly, in 108, he "was ordained to the place and office of an elder." He "was then an elder indeed," being seventy years of age, "ripe in judgment and good works, tried and found worthy." In 1710, at his request, the church invided John Maxson, 2d, William Davis, Joseph Clarke, Sen., George Stillman, Joseph Clarke, Jr., and Joseph Crandall, to assist him in public ministrations. On the 21st of August, 1712, Joseph Clarke, Jr., "was ordained an elder and colleague of Elder Maxson," and John Maxson, Jr., was at the same time ordained a deacon. The church now numbered "about 130 members." Mr. Maxson's colleague, Joseph Clarke, Jr., died June 5, 1719, when John Maxson, Jr., was proposed as an elder. In the same year, Thomas Hiscox was chose, first a deacon, and then an elder; thus the church had a pastor and two elders. The venerable pastor "sank peacefully to rest on the 17th of December, 1720, aged eighty-two years." He was laid in the Clarke burying-ground (Rev. Frederick, A.M. Denison, Westerly (Rhode Island) and ts Witnesses, for Two Hundred and Fifty Years, 1626-1876 (Providence RI: J.A. & R.A. Reid, 1878), p. 61. Hereinafter cited as Westerly and its Witnesses.)

Biography: __ ___ ____ _______________, _______________, _______________, _______________; THE Seventh-day Baptist Memorial

VOL. 1] NEW YORK, APRIL, 1852. [NO.2.

Biographical Department

Copied from an original copy of Volume 1, No. 2, April, 1852, pp 49-58, of the Seventh-Day Baptist Memorial, a quarterly magazine, devoted to biography, history, and statistics. Published in New York, by the Seventh-Day Baptist Publishing Society, No. 9 Spruce Street.

Transcribed by Sheila Smith

Submitted By Dan Maxon

JOHN MAXSON, SENIOR

The advocates of the true Sabbath look with a dignified pride to the example of great and good men who have sustained the banner of truth, through trials and sufferings, from generation to generation, till the time when that faith was planted on the shores of America. Beginning coeval with the establishment of civilization on this continent, they were made partakers of many hardships and perils, to which they, as founders of their church organization here, were peculiarly exposed. They were nevertheless earnest, practical, God-fearing men; no mad enthusiasts, crazed with new doctrines, and following in misguided zeal each ignis fatuus that flickered in the religious atmosphere. For, having been thought liberality by persecution, and steadfastness by suffering, they were at once good citizens and exalted Christians.

Among them was the subject of the present sketch, the first leading Elder of the Seventh-day Baptist Church in Westerly, R.I. His parents came from England, and were among the earliest settlers of New England, and also among the first who attempted a landing on the shores of Connecticut.

The party with which they were connected made a temporary settlement, it is supposed, near Throg’s Neck, hence for some time after called Maxson’s Point. They carried on a trade with the Indians, and prospered, until about the time of the breaking out of the Pequod War, in 1637, when the Indians who surrounded them, instigated probably by emissaries from the Pequods, suddenly abstained from intercourse with [page 50] the settlers. Upon their sending to the natives to inquire why they did not come in as usual to trade, they received answer, that they feared their dogs, which they allowed to go unconfined, but that if they would shut them up, they would come in again. The unsuspecting colonists, blinded by their apparent good will, complied with the condition; and their watchful sentinels once confined, the savages made an attack upon the settlement, and drove the whites to their shallop. A portion of them landing in a boat the next day, to procure more provisions and produce from their gardens, were again attacked, and Mr. Maxson and his son Richard were killed. Mrs. Maxson escaped with the survivors in the shallop, and after a long and tedious passage, landed on the island of Aquetneck, the nearest place on the coast at that time free from danger of the hostile Indians; where, soon after landing, John was born. This was in the spring of 1638; and as the island was purchased of the Sachems Miantonimoh and Canonicus on the 24^th of March of that year, and settled by the English immediately thereafter, Mrs. Maxson remained there, and devoted herself to the support and education of her son. Mr. Maxson, thus has the distinction of being the first white child born on the island of Rhode Island, or Aquetneck as it was then called.

This is the substance of the family traditions, and we regret that they do not give us more knowledge of the Christian mother and heroine. We would have been glad at least to have known that she lived to be repaid for all her sorrows and privations by seeing her son advanced to the great usefulness and consideration to which he attained. Oh, how the great usefulness and consideration to which he attained. Oh, how dear that hope to the heart of the Christian mother, and how supreme the joy at its fulfillment! Then and by that only are the toils, the pains and anxieties of the past recompensed, and the subdued and grateful heart rests a moment in the purest happiness earth can give, ere it passes hopefully, trustingly, yet tremblingly, to the final rest. Who but the Omniscient can read that holiest page in humanity’s record - - the heart of the Christian mother, sanctified by privation, hallowed by suffering, and finding its highest, only, and sufficient reward in the fulfillment of the noblest duty God has appointed to it. None other than herself can comprehend it. The matron who, in the appliances of wealth and ease, has reared her children, as she has not known the trials, neither can she know the rapture of the sorrow-stricken soul winning its way to the throne of God by its trustful humility, and there rendering back its improved talent. Such a return was the son of that widowed mother an energetic, earnest, useful man.

[page 51] In 1661, Mr. Maxson, then twenty-three years old, joined a company which was formed at Newport for the purchase and settlement of a portion of the Narragansett country, called by the Indians Misquamicut, as appears from the records of the company. The articles of agreement were signed on the 22^nd of March, 1661, and Mr. Maxson soon after removed to the new settlement, which thence became the scene of his labors. He was married to Mary Mosher, the daughter or sister of Hugh Mosher, one of the purchasers of Misquamicut, whose name is among those recorded in the Rhode Island Historical Society’s Collection.

We have no other information respecting Mr. Maxson until the year 1692. In the mean time the colony had generally embraced the views of the Seventh-day Baptists, and had connected themselves with the church in Newport, of which William Hiscox was pastor; and John Crandall, who before that time was an elder of the First Baptist Church, became a colleague, residing in Westerly. Meetings were held weekly at Westerly, and church meetings were alternately held there and at Newport. Yearly or "general Meetings" were also established, and were attended in alternation at Westerly and Newport.

It is not known precisely at what time Mr. Maxson became a member of this church. The first entry in the existing book of church records is under date of July 3d, 1692, and the next is of July 30^th, at which John Maxson, Jr., and his wife Judith, were admitted to membership of the church. His daughter Tacy was added on the 24^th of September following. On the 24^th of January, 1694, Joseph was baptized; and on the 23d of July, 1710, Jonathan submitted to the ordinance. He was probably the youngest son of the Elder, being born about 1680, and died in 1732.

Mr. Maxson took an active interest in the church, and was often appointed to act as messenger to delinquent members or distant brethren. He evidently had the advancement of true religion much at heart, and delighted in the service of his Divine Master, while his holy and blameless life, giving him an eminent degree that influence which was calculated to harmonize conflicting views, and allay all unkindly feeling among those around him, he was enabled, according to his desires, to do much towards the building up of Zion. His brethren, recognizing the value of his labors, desired to call him to the office of the church; and at a church meeting held at his house on the 15^th of 9^th month, 1703, "Mr. Maxson was desired by the church to officiate in the dis- [page 52] pensing of the ordinance of breaking bread in Bro. Gibson’s absence, which he did accept."

In 1708 the church was divided, and the members residing in and about Westerly were formed into a separate church, when according to the records of the new church, "taking into consideration the necessity, as also our privilege and duty, by the authority of God’s word, that one be chosen to the place and office of an elder to the congregation in and about Westerly, it is agreed and desired, that our aged brother John Maxson, Sen., be the person." And by another paragraph we are informed that "on the 20^th of the same month our beloved brother John Maxson, Sen., was ordained to the place and office of an elder to the congregation in and about Westerly, by fasting and prayer and laying on of hands."

Mr. Maxson was then at the advanced age of 70 years, an elder indeed, ripe in judgment and good works, tried and found worthy, not a mere book-taught ecclesiastic, but a practical leader of the church militant. He continued, even at this great age, to perform the duties of an elder, and seemed particularly desirous of stirring up the gifts of the church, that the order of the Gospel might not be interrupted, and that efficient officers of the church might be ready to succeed in the place of those who were ready to depart. His anxiety on this subject was deeply impressed upon the minds of the leading members, and a response was made which enabled him, on the 12^th of 10^th month, 1710, to submit the following resolution: -

"Whereas, it hath pleased Almighty God, of his goodness, grace, and mercy, to endow several brethren with the gifts of his Spirit to the edification of the church, therefore, each and every one of the said gifted brethren be requested to exercise their gifts in the church of their privilege and duty, that the church might be partakers of the same."

It was therefore agreed, that "the Elder, with William Davis and John Maxson, Jr., should improve the next Sabbath; the Elder, with Joseph Clarke, Jr., and George Stillman, should improve the Sabbath following; and the Elder, with Joseph Clarke, Sen., and Joseph Crandall, the next Sabbath after them; and so on successively till the church order otherwise; provided always, that if any brother be pressed in his spirit by the Spirit of God, and moved thereby to speak, the aforesaid brethren in their order and succession shall not obstruct or hinder such brother."

But the infirmities of age could could [sic] not be resisted entirely, even by his zealous spirit. The voice that had proclaimed the lessons of wisdom to the children of God, was beginning to falter; and on the [page 53] 26^th of June, 1712, Elder Maxson requested the congregation to make choice of a person from among them to take the place of an elder of the church, alledging [sic] his age and consequent inability to serve the congregation as her formerly had done. The church selected Joseph Clarke, Jr., as a candidate for the sacred office, and appointed a meeting for the 9^th of the next month to determine the choice. At this meeting, Mr. Clarke having consented, the church appointed the 21^st of August for the ordination, when he was ordained an elder and colleague of Eld. Maxson. John Maxson, Jr., was at the same time ordained a deacon. The church at this time consisted of about 130 members.

In 1716, Eld. Maxson proposed to the church to resign his office, on account of his age; but the church not considering the office revokable, or that they had power to release him from it for that reason, refused to accept his resignation. They however proposed to appoint a colleague, and an additional number of deacons, in order to relieve him from as much of the burthen as might be. Eld. Joseph Clarke, his colleague, died June 5^th, 1719, when they proposed John Maxson, Jr., as an elder, to take the charge as senior elder, and nominated William Tanner, Jos. Maxson, and Benj. Burdick, as deacons. These brethren declined the office of deacon, on the ground that none ought to be appointed deacons who had not the gifts for an elder, which they considered themselves not to have. Whereupon Thomas Hiscox was appointed to the office of deacon, which he accepted, and in 1719 was chosen an elder, making at this time three elders, viz. John Maxson, Sen., John Maxson, Jr., and Thomas Hiscox.

Mr. Maxson lost the venerable partner of his life’s journey on the 2^nd of February, 1718, in her 78^th year. For about half a century they had traveled hand in hand, and the fulfillment of all the promises to the righteous had been theirs; and when the old man, surrounded by the children of their joy, followed her to the tomb, for a short separation, we will not believe that the so near approach of death chilled one degree more his blood; but now, in the twilight of life, as the earth darkened around him, heaven grew brighter and more desirable; and as day passes into night, he also sank peacefully to rest on the 17^th of December, 1720, aged 82 years. He was buried in the Clarke burying-ground, near the Pawcatuck river, in view of the old site of the Hopkinton meeting-house, where, upon a blue slate-stone, is the following inscription: -

"Here lieth the body of John Maxson, died Dec.ye 17, 1720, in the 82^nd year of his age. (Maxon, Dan (submitter); John Maxson, second, 166601747; http://www.paintedhills.org/POTTER/JohnMaxson.htm; printed 6/8/2004.)

Biography: __ ___ ____ _______________, _______________, _______________, _______________; John Maxson, the only surviving son of Richard Maxson and his wife Rebecca, was born about 1539 on the island of Aqueneck. He married Mary Mosher who was born in 1641, said to be the daughter of Hugh Mosher and Lydia Maxson. John Maxson was first mentioned in records when he obtained land in Westerly, Rhode Island signing certain articles in regard to Misquamicut (Westerly) Lands on Mar 22, 1661.

 

Another early record of John Maxson was a record of his connection to the First Baptist Church of Newport. This Baptist Church was founded by John Clarke about 144 and was the second one in the New World, The first was founded in Providence, R.I. by Roger Williams in 1639. In April of 1662 John was admitted to the First Baptist Church of Newport, as member #51. John was received andbaptized by Rev. Crandall. Also admitted that same year, were two other men: Phillip Smith admitted in April and William HIscox admitted in June.

 

John's mother Rebecca, stepfather John Harndell and Hugh Mosher were not listed as members of the First Baptist Church of Newport. Perhaps theyw ere not living in ewport. Or possibly, JOhn's stepfather Harndell was a Quaker. He had Quaker connections as is indicated by people mentioned in his will and by the marriage of his daughter Mary to John Stanton in an Quaker ceremony.

 

In Harndell's will, written in 1685, the executor was his daughter Mary Harndell Stanton. Overseers of the will were his friends John Coggeshall of Newport and Robert Hodgkine (Hodgson) of Portsmouth. Witnesses to the will were: Daniel Gould, Joshua Coggeshall and Freegift Coggeshall.

 

A connecting thread is the Coggeshall family. JOhn Harndell had a granddaughter Mary Stanton, who married John Coggeshall, son of Joshua Coggeshall and Joan West. Joshua Coggeshall was a Quaker who suffered for it when he visited Plymouth colony where they did not like Quakers (also called Friends). Joshua was the son of John and Mary Coggeshall.

 

... Who influenced John Maxson to become a member of the Baptist Church? Perhaps it was the Mosher family, into which both he and his sister married. The Moshers were Baptists.

 

Members of the First Baptist Chruch of Newport disagreed with each other over theyears. In 1656 a group left to found the Second Baptist Church of Newport and in 1671, led by William Hiscox and Sammuel Hubbard, another group split off to found the First Seventh Day Baptist Church of Newport. John Maxson was associated with this latter group. He and some of his descendants became ministers in the Seventh Day Baptist Church (the Sabbatarian Church).

 

The first members of the First Seventh Day Baptist Church of Newport, in 1671, were: William Hiscox, who became its first pastor; Samuel Hubbard, his wife Tacy and his daughter Rachel Langworthy (wife of Andrew Langworthy) as well as Steven Mumford, Roger Baster and a female Mumford. Many of the descendants of Samuel Hubbard intermarried with the Maxsons.

 

It was Steven Mumford who had brought the new faith of the Seventh Day Baptists from England to Rhode Island. Listening to his ideas, the wife of Samuel Hubbard and his daughter Rachel believed that they were worshipping on the wrong day of the week. Their menfolk agreed with them. The Seventh Day Baptists worshipped on Saturday (the seventh day) instead of on Sunday (th first day of the week). This led to the split from the Baptist Church and the founding of the First Seventh Day Baptist Church in Newport.

 

At some time, John Maxson left Newport and went to live in Westerly, RI. He is in many rcords there. Seventy-six men from Newport bought the area called Misquamicutt from the Indian sachem, Sosoa, in June 1660, and founded Westerly.RI in 1661. John Maxson, as well as Hugh Mosher, were among these 76 men.

 

Not all the 76 men who bought land in Westerly actually settled there. But John was there by 1668. In that year he was listed as a Freeman. In 1669 there were less than 30 white families there. Denison gives a list of the free inhabitants of the town of Westerly on May 18, 1669. Included were John Maxson, and Daniel Stanton. (Daniel Stanton was John's nephew, son of his half sister or stepsister Mary Harndel who hadmarried John Stanton).

 

In 1708 the Westerly group of Seventh Day Baptists (Hopkinton area) had their own congregation which was separate from the group at Newport ...and John Maxson was their Elder. In that year, there were more members in the Westerly church than in the Newport church. There were 72 members in Westerly and 41 members in Newport.

 

John Maxson and Mary Mosher had at least 6 children. Five of them married descendants of Samuel Hubbard and Tacy Cooper. Of his three sons (John, Joseph and Jonathan) two were Elders in the Seventh Day Baptist Church (John and Joseph).

 

What was life like for John Maxson? from the records he left behind, we can see his involvement in the life of Westerly. He served several times as a Deputy, was overseer of the poor in 1687, was on the Grand Jury 1687-88, and was active in the Seventh Day Baptist Church. He also lived in the mainland town of Westerlyduring a time of Indian troubles called King Philip's War.

 

(Helen Morin Maxson, On the Trail of the Early Maxsons (Charlotte, NC: self published, 2000), p. 12-15. Hereinafter cited as Early Maxsons.)

Biography: __ ___ ____ _______________, _______________, _______________, _______________; John (b. 1639; d. 1720, Dec. 17) m. Mary Mosher (b. 1641; d. 1718, Feb. 2, dau. of Hugh Mosher)

 

Of Newport and Westerly, RI

 

1661, Mar. 22. He signed certain articles in regard to Misquamleut (Westerly) lands.

 

1668, Oct. 29. Westerly. Freeman

 

1669, May 18. His name was in a list of inhabitants.

 

1670-86-90-1705. Deputy.

 

1677, Oct. 24. He was excused from serving on jury because his mother-in-law and wife were both sick.

 

1687. Overseer of the Poor. He was chosen this year with another to present a petition to Sir Edmund Andros for a town charter.

 

1687-88. Grand Jury.

 

1690, Sep. 16. He and two others were appointed by the Assembly to proportion a rate for Westerly.

 

1692, Mar. 28. He had a grant of 50 acres near Captain Joseph Davol's.

 

1694, Mar. 11. He sold the above land to Edward Larkin.

 

1702, Mar. 4. He was one of the proprietors in common lands at Newport.

 

1707, Jun. 25. He deeded son Jonathan, for love, &c., 2 acres.

 

1708, Sept. 20. Elder of Seventh Day Baptist Church. "Our beloved brother John Maxson, Sr., was ordained to the offices of an elder to the congretation in and about Westerly."

 

1716 , Jan. 22. Will - proved 1721, Feb. 16. Exs. three sons John, Joseph and Jonathan. To wife, L10, two cows, with keep of same, and the house we now live in to be her abode for life. To son John, L5, an iron kettle, and great bible which was my father's. To son Joseph, husbandry tools, riding mare and L5. To son Jonathan, 20s. To daughter Hannah Maxson, a feather bed. To grandsons John, son of John, John son of Joseph, and John, son of Jonathan, 20s each. To son Joseph's five daughters, viz; Tacy, Judith, Mary, Ruth and Elizabeth Maxson, each 10s. To daughter Mary Lewis, L12. To children of deceased daughter Dorothy Clarke, each 40s., viz: to Freegift, Dorothy, Experience and Joseph.

 

Inventory. Mare, colt, bonds, wearing apparel, bible, books, including "Doolittle on Sacrament," feather beds, warming pan, pewter, &c (unknown author, Genealogical Dictionary of Rhode, p. 342-3.)

Birth: 24 Mar 1638 _______________, Newport, Newport Co., RI (Davis-Johnson, G. Maria; mjohnson80@adelphia.net; "Descendents of Seventh Day Baptist, William Davis (1663-1745) Wales>PA>RI>NJ>WV>NY>WI and other family branches"; 3 June 2004; www.ancestry.com.).

Marriage: __ ___ 1665 _______________, Westerly, Washington Co., RI.

Land owned: 22 Feb 1687/88 _______________, Feversham, _______________, RI; Samuell Utly to John Maxson

 

...Samuell Utly of Stoneington... for... ten Pounds Currant Silver money of New England...paid by John Maxson of feversham...Have...Sould...one hundred acres of Land...Lyeing as was formerly Deemed within the Precincts of Stoneington, but now in feversham...Butted...beginning at A White Oake tree Marked on four sides standing on the EAst side of Ashaawage River Joyneing to Land Laid out to George Cooke from thence Runeing Southwardly and Joyneing to Ashuwage River Thirty Rhods to a white Oake tree marked on four sides, from thence Eastwardly thirty Rhods to a white Oake tree marked on four sides from thence Running one hundred and thirty Rods Southward to A white Oake tree marked on four sides standing by a Little Run of water from thence Runing Easterly one hundred Rods to A white Oake Tree marked on fower sides from thence Runing upon a direct Line to the Southeast Corner tree of Land Layd Out to George Cooke which tree is a black Oake tree marked on four sides and soe Joyning to the said Cookes Land to the Tree first mentiones ... two and twentieth day of february ... one Thousand six hundred Eighty seven or Eight.

 

Samuell Utley

 

Wit: John Brown, Thomas Browne

 

... Acknowledged by Samuell Utley thirty one day of December 1688

 

James Pendleton, Justice of the peace (unknown author, Rhode Island Land Evidences 1648-1696 (No place: no publisher, no date), p. 221.)

Death: 17 Dec 1720 _______________, Westerly, Washington Co., RI.

Burial: __ ___ ____

Father: Richard MAXSON (b. 1602, d. 1643)

Mother: Rebecca MOSHER is still living

__________________________________________________________________________

 

Spouse: Mary MOSHER (Davis-Johnson, G. Maria; mjohnson80@adelphia.net; "Descendents of Seventh Day Baptist, William Davis (1663-1745) Wales>PA>RI>NJ>WV>NY>WI and other family branches"; 3 June 2004; www.ancestry.com.)

Birth: __ ___ 1641 _______________, Portsmouth, Newport Co., RI (Davis-Johnson, G. Maria; mjohnson80@adelphia.net; "Descendents of Seventh Day Baptist, William Davis (1663-1745) Wales>PA>RI>NJ>WV>NY>WI and other family branches"; 3 June 2004; www.ancestry.com.).

Death: 2 Feb 1718 _______________, Westerly, Washington Co., RI (Davis-Johnson, G. Maria; mjohnson80@adelphia.net; "Descendents of Seventh Day Baptist, William Davis (1663-1745) Wales>PA>RI>NJ>WV>NY>WI and other family branches"; 3 June 2004; www.ancestry.com.).

Burial: __ ___ ____

Father: Hugh MOSHER (b. 1633, d. 1694)

Mother: Rebecca MAXSON

__________________________________________________________________________

 

Seven Known Children

__________________________________________________________________________

 

M Clark MAXSON (Davis-Johnson, G. Maria; mjohnson80@adelphia.net; "Descendents of Seventh Day Baptist, William Davis (1663-1745) Wales>PA>RI>NJ>WV>NY>WI and other family branches"; 3 June 2004; www.ancestry.com.) (Davis-Johnson, G. Maria; mjohnson80@adelphia.net; "Descendents of Seventh Day Baptist, William Davis (1663-1745) Wales>PA>RI>NJ>WV>NY>WI and other family branches"; 3 June 2004; www.ancestry.com.) (Davis-Johnson, G. Maria; mjohnson80@adelphia.net; "Descendents of Seventh Day Baptist, William Davis (1663-1745) Wales>PA>RI>NJ>WV>NY>WI and other family branches"; 3 June 2004; www.ancestry.com.)

Birth: _______________, _______________, _______________, RI (Davis-Johnson, G. Maria; mjohnson80@adelphia.net; "Descendents of Seventh Day Baptist, William Davis (1663-1745) Wales>PA>RI>NJ>WV>NY>WI and other family branches"; 3 June 2004; www.ancestry.com.).

Marriage? __ ___ ____

Death: __ ___ ____

Burial: __ ___ ____

__________________________________________________________________________

 

M Rev. John M. MAXSON Jr.

Biography: __ ___ ____ _______________, _______________, _______________, _______________; John Maxson, Jr. was born in 1666, and was married in 1687 to Judith, the daughter of Joseph and Bethiah (Hubbard) Clarke. John and Judith were baptized and joined the Newport S.D.B. church July 31, 1692. August 21, 1712 he was ordained deacon in the Westerly church, as they were members of that church after it was set off from the Newport church. At the time he was ordained deacon Joseph Clarke, Jr., was ordained Elder to be an assistant to John Maxson, Sr. July 5, 1719, he was ordained elder in the Westerly meeting house by Elder Joseph Crandall who lived in Westerly and was pastor of the Newport church. At the ordination, the laying on of hands was done by Joseph Crandall, Joseph Clarke, Sr., and Peter Barker.

 

In 1720 he became pastor of the Westerly church, following his father, he served as pastor for twenty seven years, until his death in July 1747. In 1739 his brother Joseph was ordained Elder to assist him. John Jr., was an extensive land holder in Westerly. He represented Westerly in the Colonial Assembly in 1742, 1743 and 1744. He had ten children:

 

Judith born in 1689

Mary born in 1691

Bethiah born in 1693

Elizabeth born 7 November 1695

Joseph born in 1709

Hannah born in 1698

John born in 1701

Dorothy born in 1703

Susan born in 1706

Avis born in 1712

 

Elizabeth, daughter of John Maxson Jr. married Elder John Davis whos father, Elder Wm. Davis, came from Wales. They had nine children, Elizabeth, William, Martha, John, Joseph, Anna, Judith, Experience, Mary. Mary was called Molly, and married Elisha, son of Geo. Stillman II. (Andrews, Mary S.; A Brief History of a few Early Settlers of Rhode Island and some of their Descendants; 1910; Farina, IL; transcribed by Daisy (Vincent) Schrader, 5 June 1926; http://www.lauricellas.com/clint/richmnt.htm; downloaded 18 June 2004).

 

Biography: __ ___ ____ _______________, _______________, _______________, _______________; John Maxson, Jr., was an extensive land holder in Westerly:

 

Vol. I, p. 144, Town Records:

 

-Granted to John Maxson, Jr., of Westerly, 100 acres of land falling by lot in No. 12 on the south side of the great river to him, his heirs and assigns, Mar. 28, 1692. He had a portion of the Maxson purchase of 2,684 acres. Mar 30, 1709 he was granted an extra 100 acres.

 

From the Town Records: John Maxson, Jr., admitted freeman Feb. 13, 1690; July 2, 1694, chosen surveyor; 1695-1698 Councilman; Oct. 3, 1698 chosen with James Babcock to make a list of people of the town and the males between the ages of 16 to 60; 1699 chosen deputy to the General Assembly at Newport; Aug. 18, 1699, chosen Grand Juryman; July 26, 1700, chosen 2nd Constable; June 29, 1700, Fence Viewer; Oct. 14, 1700, First Deputy to Gen. Assembly at Providence; Oct. 21, 1703, 2nd Deputy to General Assembly at Warwick; June 18, 1704, Town Councilman (here called Ensign); June 28, 1708, 2nd Rate Maker; 1713, Moderator; 1715, Councilman; 1716, Councilman; 1718, Moderator, but declined to serve, claiming the meeting was illegal (and the meeting was dissolved); Juy 5, 1719, he was ordained to the place (Westerly) of Elder (pastor) by Joseph Crandall of Newport. The last act recorded of Elder Maxson, Jr., was his assisting his brother Joseph at the ordination of Elder John Davis of Shrewsbury, N.J (p. 78, Brown-Hakes and Allied Families)

(Andrews, Mary S.; A Brief History of a few Early Settlers of Rhode Island and some of their Descendants; 1910; Farina, IL; transcribed by Daisy (Vincent) Schrader, 5 June 1926; http://www.lauricellas.com/clint/richmnt.htm; downloaded 18 June 2004) (Brown, Maxson Family, p. 3.)

Biography: __ ___ ____ _______________, _______________, _______________, _______________; Rev. John Maxson, 2d, son of the first pastor, was born in 1666, "and in 1687 married Judith Clarke." We have already, in th erecord of his father, mentioned his election as deacon, and also as elder. He succeeded his father in the pastorate. "In 1739 his brother, Joseph Maxson, was appointed to the office of an elder, to assist the senior elder." Soon after, Thomas Hiscox was appointed to the like office, "to assist in the administration of the ordinances." After an upright, faithful, honored life, "he died in July, 1747, in the eighty-first year of his age" (Denison, Westerly and its Witnesses, p. 61.)

Biography: __ ___ ____ _______________, _______________, _______________, _______________;

 

 

 

 

 

 

Copied from an original copy of Volume 1, No. 2, April, 1852, pp 49-58, of the Seventh-Day Baptist Memorial, a quarterly magazine, devoted to biography, history, and statistics. Published in New York, by the Seventh-Day Baptist Publishing Society, No. 9 Spruce Street.

Transcribed by Sheila Smith

Submitted By Dan Maxon

____________________________________________

JOHN MAXSON, SECOND.

JOHN MAXSON, 2d, was the son of the venerable Elder of whose life we have just given a brief sketch. We must suppose the piety of the elder Maxson to have been the practical kind, bearing with influence upon all the relations of life. That he left the impress of his excellent character upon his children, may be inferred from the fact that two of his sons were chosen successively to follow him in the pastoral office. Of these the present subject was the first. He was born in the year 1666; and in 1687 married Judith Clarke, a sister of Joseph Clarke, Jr., one of the first settlers of Misquamicot, and a niece of Eld. John Clarke of Newport, the founder of the first church in that place. They had ten children. Judith was born in 1689, Mary in 1691, Bethiah in 1693, Elizabeth in 1695, Hannah in 1698, John in 1701, Dorothy in 1703, Susan in 1706, Joseph in 1709, Avis in 1712. They generally became members of the church, and useful citizens. Joseph and Mary died in infancy. He was an extensive land-holder in Westerly. "Maxson’s Purchase," containing 2,684 acres, belonged to a company of which he was one. He was also interested in other grants, as may be seen in the Rhode Island Collection, vol. 2, p. 218.

Mr. Maxson and his wife united with the Seventh-day Baptist Church in Newport on the 30^th of July, 1692, and labored efficiently and zealously in the cause in which they had enlisted. In the churches at that day, as compared with those of the present, the distinguishing trait seems to have been the earnestness with which every member entered into their duties toward one another. The church organization was to them no compact for convenience, but a union as the body of Christ, to which each member owed an imperative duty. Thus were the erring reclaimed, and the angry reconciled, and a lively element of good-will was kept up in the composition of the church.

Mr. Maxson and his wife were eminent examples of this spirit from the day they became professors of the name of Christ. They were faithful attendants of the meetings of the church, and he was very frequently appointed to perform the duty of messenger, in the disciplinary measures of the church. His zeal and force of character indicating him as a leader in the congregation, he was chosen a deacon, as appears from the following extract from the church records: -

"At a meeting of the church on the 9^th of the 7^th month, 1712, by appointment, the church taking into consideration the necessity of choosing a person to the place and office of a deacon, did make choice and mutually agree and desire that Bro. John Maxson, Jr., be the person as [page 55] aforesaid. The said Bro. Maxson did desire some time for consideration before he gave answer thereto."

The careful self-examination and caution shown in the acceptance of the church offices at that period, indicates a high sense of the importance of their being filled efficiently, and a noble and desirable sense of duty towards them. The church had appointed the third day of the week before the last Sabbath of the next month for the ordination of Deacon Joseph Clarke as an elder of the church, to serve as an assistant to the senior elder; and therefore "the church, appointed the aforesaid day for the time of his giving his answer; and in case he granted their desire, then the aforesaid day to be the time of his ordination thereunto, by laying on of hands, according to the rules of God’s word." The result of his reflections appears from another extract from the church book: -

"At a church meeting by appointment, the 21^st of the 8^th month, 1712, Bro. Joseph Clarke, Jr. was ordained elder to the church by fasting and prayer and laying on of hands of the presbytery, and Bro. John Maxson, Jr., was ordained to the office of deacon to, the church in the same solemn manner and order aforesaid."

About the same time that Mr. Maxson was thus called to the service of the church as deacon, he was also called upon to improve his "gift" for the edification of the church in conjunction with several others. This invitation was however revoked soon after the ordination of Elder Clarke.

In connection with the name of Dea. Maxson, there appears a transaction so illustrative of the times, that we give the notice of it as it stands on the records: -

"At a meeting of the church on the 24^th of January, 1713, Dea. Maxson proposed for consideration the fact that some persons in the congregation were exposed to the want of corn for their comfortable subsistence, and not being able to procure money in order to supply themselves with the same for their present want. Upon consideration thereof, the church did order that what money there was in the church treasury that could be conveniently spare (sic) should be by the deacons laid out for corn, to supply said persons at the discretion of the deacons."

But the colony was visited not alone by famine, but also by the pestilence. The year 1719 was remarkable for the severe sickness that prevailed in Westerly, and many deaths occurred, among them being that of Eld. Joseph Clarke, the colleague of Eld. John Maxson, Sen., who died June the 5^th. The following record is made on the occasion:

"Upon the consideration of the dispensation of the Most High upon this part of the wilderness, by visiting the inhabitants of the same with [page 56] grievous sickness, and death itself, and other considerations, it was on the 13^th of June, 1719, concluded that the next fourth day of the week next following be solemnized by fasting and prayer to Almighty God, that he would be pleased to stay his hand of correction, which hath been so awfully lifted up amongst us."

This fast was generally observed by the church, and was followed by a revival of religion, by which many were added to the church. Immediately after, Dea. Maxson was, upon the death of Eld. Clarke, selected by the church to the office of an elder, and at the same time Thomas Hiscox was nominated. The following entry records his ordination: -

"At the church meeting July 5^th, 1719, at the meeting-house in Westerly, Bro. John Maxson 2d, was ordained to the place of an elder to this church, by Bro. Joseph Crandall, of Newport, by laying on of hands of Eld. Crandall, with hands of Bro. Joseph Clarke, Sen., and Bro. Peter Barker."

On the death of the aged leading Elder, the next year, Eld. Maxson succeeded him as pastor, though he was himself well advanced in life, and in a measure disabled from active duties by reason of lameness so that he was not always able to attend the meetings. But though failing in body, his mind was still burning with zeal to advance the prosperity of the church of God, and insure its peace. This was sometimes no easy matter, as the district being agricultural, and the lands imperfectly laid out and defined, disputes continually arose concerning the boundaries of the possessions of the members. One such arose in which the elder was a party, and the settlement of it, as it appears in the following minute, and in the subsequent good feeling, shows the deference of the members for the authority of the church: -

"WESTERLY, Sept. 20^th, 1720.

"Whereas, there having been some dissatisfaction between Bro. John Maxson, elder, and Bro. Thomas Hiscox, concerning the south extent of said Maxson’s lands lying eastward of the highway which runs to the mill, the said Maxson and Hiscox jointly agreeing to leave the decision of the matter to us, the subscribers, obliging themselves by their words forever to abide our determination in the premises; we having circumspectly viewed the land, and diligently inquired into all the circumstances and evidences offered to us to enlighten us in the matter, do order and determine as followeth, viz.: that the said John Maxson’s lot of land shall extend to the fence which is now standing, ranging westward from the great river to the aforesaid highway, and no farther; and that the fence as it now stands shall be his perpetual bounds of the southernmost bounds of said land; and this instrument we desire may be entered in the church records.

SAMUEL BEEBEE,

THOMAS RHOADS,

THOMAS BURDICK, and others"

[page 57] The following thanksgiving proclamation is interesting, and shows that at the age of 70 years Mr. Maxson was as strong in heart as in mind, and that, though the lamp of life was waning, that the love of God was still bright: -

"NOVEMBER 20^th, 1736.

"Whereas, we have been wonderfully indulged by God’s providence with many unmerited blessings, and we think it but our reasonable service to render to him our tribute of praise, and notwithstanding the infirmities and troubles of many among us, yet it must be confessed, I think, that God hath dealt with us in much mercy, and in judgment. He hath shown himself to be very gracious, but in general there hath been much more cause of thankfulness and joy than of dejection and complaint. There are many reasons which occur to us for rendering praise to God, among which I think the following ought not to be forgotten, viz.: the favorable state of the distemper with us, that hath been so mortal in many parts of New England, yet with us scarce any have died; also, that the season of the year has been so favorable and plentiful; and most of all, though the harvest is plenteous, and the laborers few, yet that the Lord of the harvest has seemed to interpose in a most gracious manner by the increase of many which we hope are sincere professors of the truth of the Gospel. Therefore I have thought proper to appoint the fourth day of the week, being the 24^th of Nov. inst., to be set apart as a day of thanksgiving to God for all such as are disposed thereto.

JOHN MAXSON, Elder

By GEORGE STILLMAN, Clerk"

This occasion was well attended. None entered into the exercises of the day with more real and sincere thankfulness than did the venerable pastor. There had been a large number added to the church, and the prospect seemed pleasing to his faith. He thus continued to labor and rejoice, and as age advanced upon him, he became anxious that the order of the gospel might be perpetuated by the gifts of the church, for which purpose he proposed that set times be given to such as were inclined to improve their talent for the ministry of the word.

About this time Mr. Maxson became desirous that the church should appoint a colleague or assistant for him in the performance of his official duties; and in 1739 his brother, Joseph Maxson, was appointed to the office of an elder, to assist the senior elder in the service of the church; and soon after Thomas Hiscox was also appointed to the office of an elder, to assist in the administration of the ordinances.

The "New Lights," a people that made some noise in that part of New England during the latter part of Eld. Maxson’s administration, gave him some trouble by their unscrupulous denunciation of the faith which he professed and defended; but his wisdom was the more apparent from the kindness with which he treated all the aspersions cast upon him and his brethren.

[page 58] The last act recorded of Eld. Maxson was assisting Eld. Joseph Maxson at the ordination of Eld. John Davis, of Shrewsbury, N.J., whither Mr. Davis had gone, with others who had been dismissed from the church at Westerly, to form a Sabbath-keeping church in that place. The ordination took place July 12^th, 1746.

Eld. Maxson was now approaching the verge of life. The weight of years and many infirmities pressed upon him. He could say with the apostle, "I have fought the good fight, I have kept the faith," and could look with him to the crown laid up, to be conferred by the Master whom he served. He died July 1747 in the 81^st year of his age (Maxon, Dan (submitter); John Maxson, second, 166601747; http://www.paintedhills.org/POTTER/JohnMaxsonII.htm; printed 6/8/2004.)

Biography: __ ___ ____ _______________, _______________, _______________, _______________; John (b. 1667, Westerly RI; d. Jul. 1748) m. 1698, Jan. 19, Judith Clarke (b. 1667, Oct. 12, dau. of Joseph & Bethia (Hubbard) Clarke).

 

1712, Aug. 21. Ordained as Deacon of Seventh Day Baptist Church.

 

1716. Freeman.

 

1719, Jul. 5. Ordained as Elder.

 

1748, Jul. 25. Inventory, L277, 5s. 4d., viz.: pocket book, money and wearing apparel L34, 1s. 4d., books and gloves L1, 7s., cow, heifer, parts of bible, Josephus' History, part of a warming pan, part of a spinning wheel, 7 sheep, old mare, calf, 2 wether sheep, L20 due next Christmas for a sheep, &c. Administration to son Captain John Maxson, who took receipts in the next year from his sisters' husbands, and from his nephew Joseph (unknown author, Genealogical Dictionary of Rhode, p. 342-3.)

Birth: 12 Oct 1666 _______________, Westerly, Washington Co., RI.

Marriage: 19 Jan 1687 Judith CLARKE (b. 12 Oct 1667, d. 17 Jul 1747), daughter of Joseph CLARKE and Bethiah HUBBARD; _______________, Westerly, Washington Co., RI; book 2, page 78 (Arnold, Vital Record of RI, p. 45.)

Daughter: 23 Sep 1689 Judith MAXSON; _______________, Westerly, Washington Co., RI (Davis-Johnson, G. Maria; mjohnson80@adelphia.net; "Descendents of Seventh Day Baptist, William Davis (1663-1745) Wales>PA>RI>NJ>WV>NY>WI and other family branches"; 3 June 2004; www.ancestry.com.) (Arnold, Vital Record of RI, p. 116.).

Daughter: 26 Oct 1691 Mary MAXSON; _______________, Westerly, Washington Co., RI (Davis-Johnson, G. Maria; mjohnson80@adelphia.net; "Descendents of Seventh Day Baptist, William Davis (1663-1745) Wales>PA>RI>NJ>WV>NY>WI and other family branches"; 3 June 2004; www.ancestry.com.) (Arnold, Vital Record of RI, p. 116.).

Daughter: 31 Jul 1693 Bethiah MAXSON; _______________, Westerly, Washington Co., RI (Davis-Johnson, G. Maria; mjohnson80@adelphia.net; "Descendents of Seventh Day Baptist, William Davis (1663-1745) Wales>PA>RI>NJ>WV>NY>WI and other family branches"; 3 June 2004; www.ancestry.com.) (Arnold, Vital Record of RI, p. 116.).

Daughter: 7 Nov 1695 Elizabeth MAXSON; _______________, Westerly, Washington Co., RI (Arnold, Vital Record of RI, p. 116.).

Daughter: 13 Jun 1698 Hannah MAXSON; _______________, Westerly, Washington Co., RI (Davis-Johnson, G. Maria; mjohnson80@adelphia.net; "Descendents of Seventh Day Baptist, William Davis (1663-1745) Wales>PA>RI>NJ>WV>NY>WI and other family branches"; 3 June 2004; www.ancestry.com.) (Arnold, Vital Record of RI, p. 116.).

Son: 21 Apr 1701 John MAXSON; _______________, Westerly, Washington Co., RI (Davis-Johnson, G. Maria; mjohnson80@adelphia.net; "Descendents of Seventh Day Baptist, William Davis (1663-1745) Wales>PA>RI>NJ>WV>NY>WI and other family branches"; 3 June 2004; www.ancestry.com.) (Arnold, Vital Record of RI, p. 117.).

Daughter: 30 Oct 1703 Dorothy MAXSON; _______________, Westerly, Washington Co., RI (Davis-Johnson, G. Maria; mjohnson80@adelphia.net; "Descendents of Seventh Day Baptist, William Davis (1663-1745) Wales>PA>RI>NJ>WV>NY>WI and other family branches"; 3 June 2004; www.ancestry.com.) (Arnold, Vital Record of RI, p. 117.).

Daughter: 19 Oct 1706 Susan MAXSON; _______________, Westerly, Washington Co., RI (Davis-Johnson, G. Maria; mjohnson80@adelphia.net; "Descendents of Seventh Day Baptist, William Davis (1663-1745) Wales>PA>RI>NJ>WV>NY>WI and other family branches"; 3 June 2004; www.ancestry.com.) (Arnold, Vital Record of RI, p. 117.).

Son: __ Dec 1709 Joseph MAXSON; _______________, Westerly, Washington Co., RI (Davis-Johnson, G. Maria; mjohnson80@adelphia.net; "Descendents of Seventh Day Baptist, William Davis (1663-1745) Wales>PA>RI>NJ>WV>NY>WI and other family branches"; 3 June 2004; www.ancestry.com.) (Arnold, Vital Record of RI, p. 117.).

Daughter: 27 Dec 1712 Avis MAXSON; _______________, Westerly, Washington Co., RI (Davis-Johnson, G. Maria; mjohnson80@adelphia.net; "Descendents of Seventh Day Baptist, William Davis (1663-1745) Wales>PA>RI>NJ>WV>NY>WI and other family branches"; 3 June 2004; www.ancestry.com.) (Arnold, Vital Record of RI, p. 117.).

Court Proc: __ ___ 1725 _______________, Westerly, _______________, CT; Joseph Maxon Junr of Westerly, husbandman, vs. Hezekiah Wilcox of Westerly Black-smith, in custody of the sheriff, for L26 due by note dated 27 march 1724 witnessed by Sarah Renalls (mark S) and John Maxson ye second. Writ dated 20 July 1725 (Fiske, Newport Court Files, Item #239, 1725.)

Death: 28 Oct 1747 _______________, Westerly, Washington Co., RI.

Burial: __ ___ ____

__________________________________________________________________________

 

F Dorothy MAXSON (Davis-Johnson, G. Maria; mjohnson80@adelphia.net; "Descendents of Seventh Day Baptist, William Davis (1663-1745) Wales>PA>RI>NJ>WV>NY>WI and other family branches"; 3 June 2004; www.ancestry.com.) (Davis-Johnson, G. Maria; mjohnson80@adelphia.net; "Descendents of Seventh Day Baptist, William Davis (1663-1745) Wales>PA>RI>NJ>WV>NY>WI and other family branches"; 3 June 2004; www.ancestry.com.) (Davis-Johnson, G. Maria; mjohnson80@adelphia.net; "Descendents of Seventh Day Baptist, William Davis (1663-1745) Wales>PA>RI>NJ>WV>NY>WI and other family branches"; 3 June 2004; www.ancestry.com.)

Birth: circa __ ___ 1668 _______________, Westerly, Washington Co., RI (Davis-Johnson, G. Maria; mjohnson80@adelphia.net; "Descendents of Seventh Day Baptist, William Davis (1663-1745) Wales>PA>RI>NJ>WV>NY>WI and other family branches"; 3 June 2004; www.ancestry.com.).

Marriage 1: 5 Jan 1691/92 _______________, Westerly, Washington Co., RI; She married Rev. Joseph Clarke (b. 4 apr 1670, Westerly, RI; d. 5 June 1719, Clarke Ground, westerly, RI), son of Rev. Joseph and Bethiah (Cooper) Clarke (Davis-Johnson, G. Maria; mjohnson80@adelphia.net; "Descendents of Seventh Day Baptist, William Davis (1663-1745) Wales>PA>RI>NJ>WV>NY>WI and other family branches"; 3 June 2004; www.ancestry.com.)

Death: 15 Feb 1712/13 _______________, Westerly, Washington Co., RI (Davis-Johnson, G. Maria; mjohnson80@adelphia.net; "Descendents of Seventh Day Baptist, William Davis (1663-1745) Wales>PA>RI>NJ>WV>NY>WI and other family branches"; 3 June 2004; www.ancestry.com.).

Marriage? __ ___ ____

Burial: __ ___ ____

__________________________________________________________________________

 

M Rev. Joseph MAXSON (Davis-Johnson, G. Maria; mjohnson80@adelphia.net; "Descendents of Seventh Day Baptist, William Davis (1663-1745) Wales>PA>RI>NJ>WV>NY>WI and other family branches"; 3 June 2004; www.ancestry.com.) (Davis-Johnson, G. Maria; mjohnson80@adelphia.net; "Descendents of Seventh Day Baptist, William Davis (1663-1745) Wales>PA>RI>NJ>WV>NY>WI and other family branches"; 3 June 2004; www.ancestry.com.) (Davis-Johnson, G. Maria; mjohnson80@adelphia.net; "Descendents of Seventh Day Baptist, William Davis (1663-1745) Wales>PA>RI>NJ>WV>NY>WI and other family branches"; 3 June 2004; www.ancestry.com.)

Biography: __ ___ ____ _______________, _______________, _______________, _______________; Rev. Joseph Maxson, son of the first and brother of the second pastor, was born in 1672. In the notice of his brother, we have mentioned Joseph's ordination as deacon, and also as an elder. In 1732, Mr.Maxson was ordained "an evangelist or traveling minister." At the same time, Thomas HIscox received ordination for the same purpose. In 1739, Mr. Maxson was "appointed for ordination as an elder to assist" his brother in the pastorate. On the death of his brother, he succeeded to the pastoral office, though he was seventy-five years of age. His assistant elder was Thomas Hiscox. His pastorate was short, and somewhat disturbed by the New Light development. "He died in September, 1750, in the seventy-eighth year of his age" (Denison, Westerly and its Witnesses, p. 62.)

Birth: __ ___ 1672 _______________, Westerly, Washington Co., RI (Davis-Johnson, G. Maria; mjohnson80@adelphia.net; "Descendents of Seventh Day Baptist, William Davis (1663-1745) Wales>PA>RI>NJ>WV>NY>WI and other family branches"; 3 June 2004; www.ancestry.com.).

Marriage 1: __ ___ 1691 _______________, Westerly, Washington Co., RI; He married Tacy Burdick (b. 2 Dec. 1667, Westerly, RI; d. aft. 1747, Westerly, RI) daughter of Rev. Robert and Ruth (Hubbard) Burdick (Davis-Johnson, G. Maria; mjohnson80@adelphia.net; "Descendents of Seventh Day Baptist, William Davis (1663-1745) Wales>PA>RI>NJ>WV>NY>WI and other family branches"; 3 June 2004; www.ancestry.com.)

Death: __ Sep 1750 _______________, Westerly, Washington Co., RI (Davis-Johnson, G. Maria; mjohnson80@adelphia.net; "Descendents of Seventh Day Baptist, William Davis (1663-1745) Wales>PA>RI>NJ>WV>NY>WI and other family branches"; 3 June 2004; www.ancestry.com.).

Marriage? __ ___ ____

Burial: __ ___ ____

__________________________________________________________________________

 

F Mary MAXSON (Davis-Johnson, G. Maria; mjohnson80@adelphia.net; "Descendents of Seventh Day Baptist, William Davis (1663-1745) Wales>PA>RI>NJ>WV>NY>WI and other family branches"; 3 June 2004; www.ancestry.com.) (Davis-Johnson, G. Maria; mjohnson80@adelphia.net; "Descendents of Seventh Day Baptist, William Davis (1663-1745) Wales>PA>RI>NJ>WV>NY>WI and other family branches"; 3 June 2004; www.ancestry.com.) (Davis-Johnson, G. Maria; mjohnson80@adelphia.net; "Descendents of Seventh Day Baptist, William Davis (1663-1745) Wales>PA>RI>NJ>WV>NY>WI and other family branches"; 3 June 2004; www.ancestry.com.)

Birth: __ ___ 1675 _______________, Westerly, Washington Co., RI (Davis-Johnson, G. Maria; mjohnson80@adelphia.net; "Descendents of Seventh Day Baptist, William Davis (1663-1745) Wales>PA>RI>NJ>WV>NY>WI and other family branches"; 3 June 2004; www.ancestry.com.).

Marriage 1: circa __ ___ 1695 _______________, _______________, _______________, _______________; She married a Daniel Lewis (Davis-Johnson, G. Maria; mjohnson80@adelphia.net; "Descendents of Seventh Day Baptist, William Davis (1663-1745) Wales>PA>RI>NJ>WV>NY>WI and other family branches"; 3 June 2004; www.ancestry.com.)

Death: __ ___ 1721 _______________, Westerly, Washington Co., RI (Davis-Johnson, G. Maria; mjohnson80@adelphia.net; "Descendents of Seventh Day Baptist, William Davis (1663-1745) Wales>PA>RI>NJ>WV>NY>WI and other family branches"; 3 June 2004; www.ancestry.com.).

Marriage? __ ___ ____

Burial: __ ___ ____

__________________________________________________________________________

 

F Hannah MAXSON (Davis-Johnson, G. Maria; mjohnson80@adelphia.net; "Descendents of Seventh Day Baptist, William Davis (1663-1745) Wales>PA>RI>NJ>WV>NY>WI and other family branches"; 3 June 2004; www.ancestry.com.) (Davis-Johnson, G. Maria; mjohnson80@adelphia.net; "Descendents of Seventh Day Baptist, William Davis (1663-1745) Wales>PA>RI>NJ>WV>NY>WI and other family branches"; 3 June 2004; www.ancestry.com.) (Davis-Johnson, G. Maria; mjohnson80@adelphia.net; "Descendents of Seventh Day Baptist, William Davis (1663-1745) Wales>PA>RI>NJ>WV>NY>WI and other family branches"; 3 June 2004; www.ancestry.com.)

Birth: __ ___ 1678 _______________, Westerly, Washington Co., RI (Davis-Johnson, G. Maria; mjohnson80@adelphia.net; "Descendents of Seventh Day Baptist, William Davis (1663-1745) Wales>PA>RI>NJ>WV>NY>WI and other family branches"; 3 June 2004; www.ancestry.com.).

Marriage 1: __ ___ 1714 _______________, Westerly, Washington Co., RI; She married Hubbard Burdick (b. abt. 1676, Westerly, RI; d. 1 Apr 1758, Hopkinton, RI), son of Rev. Robert and Ruth (Hubbard) Burdick (Davis-Johnson, G. Maria; mjohnson80@adelphia.net; "Descendents of Seventh Day Baptist, William Davis (1663-1745) Wales>PA>RI>NJ>WV>NY>WI and other family branches"; 3 June 2004; www.ancestry.com.)

Death: __ ___ 1752 _______________, Hopkinton, Washington Co., RI (Davis-Johnson, G. Maria; mjohnson80@adelphia.net; "Descendents of Seventh Day Baptist, William Davis (1663-1745) Wales>PA>RI>NJ>WV>NY>WI and other family branches"; 3 June 2004; www.ancestry.com.).

Marriage? __ ___ ____

Burial: __ ___ ____

__________________________________________________________________________

 

M Jonathan MAXSON (Davis-Johnson, G. Maria; mjohnson80@adelphia.net; "Descendents of Seventh Day Baptist, William Davis (1663-1745) Wales>PA>RI>NJ>WV>NY>WI and other family branches"; 3 June 2004; www.ancestry.com.) (Davis-Johnson, G. Maria; mjohnson80@adelphia.net; "Descendents of Seventh Day Baptist, William Davis (1663-1745) Wales>PA>RI>NJ>WV>NY>WI and other family branches"; 3 June 2004; www.ancestry.com.) (Davis-Johnson, G. Maria; mjohnson80@adelphia.net; "Descendents of Seventh Day Baptist, William Davis (1663-1745) Wales>PA>RI>NJ>WV>NY>WI and other family branches"; 3 June 2004; www.ancestry.com.)

Birth: __ ___ 1680 _______________, New London, New London Co., CT (Davis-Johnson, G. Maria; mjohnson80@adelphia.net; "Descendents of Seventh Day Baptist, William Davis (1663-1745) Wales>PA>RI>NJ>WV>NY>WI and other family branches"; 3 June 2004; www.ancestry.com.).

Marriage 1: 1 May 1707 _______________, Westerly, Washington Co., RI; He married Content Rogers (b. 1688, New London, CT; d. July 1768, Westerly, RI), daughter of Jonathan and Naomi (Burdick) Rogers (Davis-Johnson, G. Maria; mjohnson80@adelphia.net; "Descendents of Seventh Day Baptist, William Davis (1663-1745) Wales>PA>RI>NJ>WV>NY>WI and other family branches"; 3 June 2004; www.ancestry.com.)

Will: __ ___ 1732 _______________, Westerly, Washington Co., RI (Brown, Maxson Family, p. 5.).

Death: 20 Nov 1732 _______________, Westerly, Washington Co., RI (Davis-Johnson, G. Maria; mjohnson80@adelphia.net; "Descendents of Seventh Day Baptist, William Davis (1663-1745) Wales>PA>RI>NJ>WV>NY>WI and other family branches"; 3 June 2004; www.ancestry.com.).

Marriage? __ ___ ____

Burial: __ ___ ____

__________________________________________________________________________

 

 

 

 

Family Group Sheet

 

 

Subject: Rev. John M. MAXSON Jr.

Biography: __ ___ ____ _______________, _______________, _______________, _______________; John Maxson, Jr. was born in 1666, and was married in 1687 to Judith, the daughter of Joseph and Bethiah (Hubbard) Clarke. John and Judith were baptized and joined the Newport S.D.B. church July 31, 1692. August 21, 1712 he was ordained deacon in the Westerly church, as they were members of that church after it was set off from the Newport church. At the time he was ordained deacon Joseph Clarke, Jr., was ordained Elder to be an assistant to John Maxson, Sr. July 5, 1719, he was ordained elder in the Westerly meeting house by Elder Joseph Crandall who lived in Westerly and was pastor of the Newport church. At the ordination, the laying on of hands was done by Joseph Crandall, Joseph Clarke, Sr., and Peter Barker.

 

In 1720 he became pastor of the Westerly church, following his father, he served as pastor for twenty seven years, until his death in July 1747. In 1739 his brother Joseph was ordained Elder to assist him. John Jr., was an extensive land holder in Westerly. He represented Westerly in the Colonial Assembly in 1742, 1743 and 1744. He had ten children:

 

Judith born in 1689

Mary born in 1691

Bethiah born in 1693

Elizabeth born 7 November 1695

Joseph born in 1709

Hannah born in 1698

John born in 1701

Dorothy born in 1703

Susan born in 1706

Avis born in 1712

 

Elizabeth, daughter of John Maxson Jr. married Elder John Davis whos father, Elder Wm. Davis, came from Wales. They had nine children, Elizabeth, William, Martha, John, Joseph, Anna, Judith, Experience, Mary. Mary was called Molly, and married Elisha, son of Geo. Stillman II. (Andrews, Mary S.; A Brief History of a few Early Settlers of Rhode Island and some of their Descendants; 1910; Farina, IL; transcribed by Daisy (Vincent) Schrader, 5 June 1926; http://www.lauricellas.com/clint/richmnt.htm; downloaded 18 June 2004).

 

Biography: __ ___ ____ _______________, _______________, _______________, _______________; John Maxson, Jr., was an extensive land holder in Westerly:

 

Vol. I, p. 144, Town Records:

 

-Granted to John Maxson, Jr., of Westerly, 100 acres of land falling by lot in No. 12 on the south side of the great river to him, his heirs and assigns, Mar. 28, 1692. He had a portion of the Maxson purchase of 2,684 acres. Mar 30, 1709 he was granted an extra 100 acres.

 

From the Town Records: John Maxson, Jr., admitted freeman Feb. 13, 1690; July 2, 1694, chosen surveyor; 1695-1698 Councilman; Oct. 3, 1698 chosen with James Babcock to make a list of people of the town and the males between the ages of 16 to 60; 1699 chosen deputy to the General Assembly at Newport; Aug. 18, 1699, chosen Grand Juryman; July 26, 1700, chosen 2nd Constable; June 29, 1700, Fence Viewer; Oct. 14, 1700, First Deputy to Gen. Assembly at Providence; Oct. 21, 1703, 2nd Deputy to General Assembly at Warwick; June 18, 1704, Town Councilman (here called Ensign); June 28, 1708, 2nd Rate Maker; 1713, Moderator; 1715, Councilman; 1716, Councilman; 1718, Moderator, but declined to serve, claiming the meeting was illegal (and the meeting was dissolved); Juy 5, 1719, he was ordained to the place (Westerly) of Elder (pastor) by Joseph Crandall of Newport. The last act recorded of Elder Maxson, Jr., was his assisting his brother Joseph at the ordination of Elder John Davis of Shrewsbury, N.J (p. 78, Brown-Hakes and Allied Families)

(Andrews, Mary S.; A Brief History of a few Early Settlers of Rhode Island and some of their Descendants; 1910; Farina, IL; transcribed by Daisy (Vincent) Schrader, 5 June 1926; http://www.lauricellas.com/clint/richmnt.htm; downloaded 18 June 2004) (Brown, Maxson Family, p. 3.)

Biography: __ ___ ____ _______________, _______________, _______________, _______________; Rev. John Maxson, 2d, son of the first pastor, was born in 1666, "and in 1687 married Judith Clarke." We have already, in th erecord of his father, mentioned his election as deacon, and also as elder. He succeeded his father in the pastorate. "In 1739 his brother, Joseph Maxson, was appointed to the office of an elder, to assist the senior elder." Soon after, Thomas Hiscox was appointed to the like office, "to assist in the administration of the ordinances." After an upright, faithful, honored life, "he died in July, 1747, in the eighty-first year of his age" (Denison, Westerly and its Witnesses, p. 61.)

Biography: __ ___ ____ _______________, _______________, _______________, _______________;

 

 

 

 

 

 

Copied from an original copy of Volume 1, No. 2, April, 1852, pp 49-58, of the Seventh-Day Baptist Memorial, a quarterly magazine, devoted to biography, history, and statistics. Published in New York, by the Seventh-Day Baptist Publishing Society, No. 9 Spruce Street.

Transcribed by Sheila Smith

Submitted By Dan Maxon

____________________________________________

JOHN MAXSON, SECOND.

JOHN MAXSON, 2d, was the son of the venerable Elder of whose life we have just given a brief sketch. We must suppose the piety of the elder Maxson to have been the practical kind, bearing with influence upon all the relations of life. That he left the impress of his excellent character upon his children, may be inferred from the fact that two of his sons were chosen successively to follow him in the pastoral office. Of these the present subject was the first. He was born in the year 1666; and in 1687 married Judith Clarke, a sister of Joseph Clarke, Jr., one of the first settlers of Misquamicot, and a niece of Eld. John Clarke of Newport, the founder of the first church in that place. They had ten children. Judith was born in 1689, Mary in 1691, Bethiah in 1693, Elizabeth in 1695, Hannah in 1698, John in 1701, Dorothy in 1703, Susan in 1706, Joseph in 1709, Avis in 1712. They generally became members of the church, and useful citizens. Joseph and Mary died in infancy. He was an extensive land-holder in Westerly. "Maxson’s Purchase," containing 2,684 acres, belonged to a company of which he was one. He was also interested in other grants, as may be seen in the Rhode Island Collection, vol. 2, p. 218.

Mr. Maxson and his wife united with the Seventh-day Baptist Church in Newport on the 30^th of July, 1692, and labored efficiently and zealously in the cause in which they had enlisted. In the churches at that day, as compared with those of the present, the distinguishing trait seems to have been the earnestness with which every member entered into their duties toward one another. The church organization was to them no compact for convenience, but a union as the body of Christ, to which each member owed an imperative duty. Thus were the erring reclaimed, and the angry reconciled, and a lively element of good-will was kept up in the composition of the church.

Mr. Maxson and his wife were eminent examples of this spirit from the day they became professors of the name of Christ. They were faithful attendants of the meetings of the church, and he was very frequently appointed to perform the duty of messenger, in the disciplinary measures of the church. His zeal and force of character indicating him as a leader in the congregation, he was chosen a deacon, as appears from the following extract from the church records: -

"At a meeting of the church on the 9^th of the 7^th month, 1712, by appointment, the church taking into consideration the necessity of choosing a person to the place and office of a deacon, did make choice and mutually agree and desire that Bro. John Maxson, Jr., be the person as [page 55] aforesaid. The said Bro. Maxson did desire some time for consideration before he gave answer thereto."

The careful self-examination and caution shown in the acceptance of the church offices at that period, indicates a high sense of the importance of their being filled efficiently, and a noble and desirable sense of duty towards them. The church had appointed the third day of the week before the last Sabbath of the next month for the ordination of Deacon Joseph Clarke as an elder of the church, to serve as an assistant to the senior elder; and therefore "the church, appointed the aforesaid day for the time of his giving his answer; and in case he granted their desire, then the aforesaid day to be the time of his ordination thereunto, by laying on of hands, according to the rules of God’s word." The result of his reflections appears from another extract from the church book: -

"At a church meeting by appointment, the 21^st of the 8^th month, 1712, Bro. Joseph Clarke, Jr. was ordained elder to the church by fasting and prayer and laying on of hands of the presbytery, and Bro. John Maxson, Jr., was ordained to the office of deacon to, the church in the same solemn manner and order aforesaid."

About the same time that Mr. Maxson was thus called to the service of the church as deacon, he was also called upon to improve his "gift" for the edification of the church in conjunction with several others. This invitation was however revoked soon after the ordination of Elder Clarke.

In connection with the name of Dea. Maxson, there appears a transaction so illustrative of the times, that we give the notice of it as it stands on the records: -

"At a meeting of the church on the 24^th of January, 1713, Dea. Maxson proposed for consideration the fact that some persons in the congregation were exposed to the want of corn for their comfortable subsistence, and not being able to procure money in order to supply themselves with the same for their present want. Upon consideration thereof, the church did order that what money there was in the church treasury that could be conveniently spare (sic) should be by the deacons laid out for corn, to supply said persons at the discretion of the deacons."

But the colony was visited not alone by famine, but also by the pestilence. The year 1719 was remarkable for the severe sickness that prevailed in Westerly, and many deaths occurred, among them being that of Eld. Joseph Clarke, the colleague of Eld. John Maxson, Sen., who died June the 5^th. The following record is made on the occasion:

"Upon the consideration of the dispensation of the Most High upon this part of the wilderness, by visiting the inhabitants of the same with [page 56] grievous sickness, and death itself, and other considerations, it was on the 13^th of June, 1719, concluded that the next fourth day of the week next following be solemnized by fasting and prayer to Almighty God, that he would be pleased to stay his hand of correction, which hath been so awfully lifted up amongst us."

This fast was generally observed by the church, and was followed by a revival of religion, by which many were added to the church. Immediately after, Dea. Maxson was, upon the death of Eld. Clarke, selected by the church to the office of an elder, and at the same time Thomas Hiscox was nominated. The following entry records his ordination: -

"At the church meeting July 5^th, 1719, at the meeting-house in Westerly, Bro. John Maxson 2d, was ordained to the place of an elder to this church, by Bro. Joseph Crandall, of Newport, by laying on of hands of Eld. Crandall, with hands of Bro. Joseph Clarke, Sen., and Bro. Peter Barker."

On the death of the aged leading Elder, the next year, Eld. Maxson succeeded him as pastor, though he was himself well advanced in life, and in a measure disabled from active duties by reason of lameness so that he was not always able to attend the meetings. But though failing in body, his mind was still burning with zeal to advance the prosperity of the church of God, and insure its peace. This was sometimes no easy matter, as the district being agricultural, and the lands imperfectly laid out and defined, disputes continually arose concerning the boundaries of the possessions of the members. One such arose in which the elder was a party, and the settlement of it, as it appears in the following minute, and in the subsequent good feeling, shows the deference of the members for the authority of the church: -

"WESTERLY, Sept. 20^th, 1720.

"Whereas, there having been some dissatisfaction between Bro. John Maxson, elder, and Bro. Thomas Hiscox, concerning the south extent of said Maxson’s lands lying eastward of the highway which runs to the mill, the said Maxson and Hiscox jointly agreeing to leave the decision of the matter to us, the subscribers, obliging themselves by their words forever to abide our determination in the premises; we having circumspectly viewed the land, and diligently inquired into all the circumstances and evidences offered to us to enlighten us in the matter, do order and determine as followeth, viz.: that the said John Maxson’s lot of land shall extend to the fence which is now standing, ranging westward from the great river to the aforesaid highway, and no farther; and that the fence as it now stands shall be his perpetual bounds of the southernmost bounds of said land; and this instrument we desire may be entered in the church records.

SAMUEL BEEBEE,

THOMAS RHOADS,

THOMAS BURDICK, and others"

[page 57] The following thanksgiving proclamation is interesting, and shows that at the age of 70 years Mr. Maxson was as strong in heart as in mind, and that, though the lamp of life was waning, that the love of God was still bright: -

"NOVEMBER 20^th, 1736.

"Whereas, we have been wonderfully indulged by God’s providence with many unmerited blessings, and we think it but our reasonable service to render to him our tribute of praise, and notwithstanding the infirmities and troubles of many among us, yet it must be confessed, I think, that God hath dealt with us in much mercy, and in judgment. He hath shown himself to be very gracious, but in general there hath been much more cause of thankfulness and joy than of dejection and complaint. There are many reasons which occur to us for rendering praise to God, among which I think the following ought not to be forgotten, viz.: the favorable state of the distemper with us, that hath been so mortal in many parts of New England, yet with us scarce any have died; also, that the season of the year has been so favorable and plentiful; and most of all, though the harvest is plenteous, and the laborers few, yet that the Lord of the harvest has seemed to interpose in a most gracious manner by the increase of many which we hope are sincere professors of the truth of the Gospel. Therefore I have thought proper to appoint the fourth day of the week, being the 24^th of Nov. inst., to be set apart as a day of thanksgiving to God for all such as are disposed thereto.

JOHN MAXSON, Elder

By GEORGE STILLMAN, Clerk"

This occasion was well attended. None entered into the exercises of the day with more real and sincere thankfulness than did the venerable pastor. There had been a large number added to the church, and the prospect seemed pleasing to his faith. He thus continued to labor and rejoice, and as age advanced upon him, he became anxious that the order of the gospel might be perpetuated by the gifts of the church, for which purpose he proposed that set times be given to such as were inclined to improve their talent for the ministry of the word.

About this time Mr. Maxson became desirous that the church should appoint a colleague or assistant for him in the performance of his official duties; and in 1739 his brother, Joseph Maxson, was appointed to the office of an elder, to assist the senior elder in the service of the church; and soon after Thomas Hiscox was also appointed to the office of an elder, to assist in the administration of the ordinances.

The "New Lights," a people that made some noise in that part of New England during the latter part of Eld. Maxson’s administration, gave him some trouble by their unscrupulous denunciation of the faith which he professed and defended; but his wisdom was the more apparent from the kindness with which he treated all the aspersions cast upon him and his brethren.

[page 58] The last act recorded of Eld. Maxson was assisting Eld. Joseph Maxson at the ordination of Eld. John Davis, of Shrewsbury, N.J., whither Mr. Davis had gone, with others who had been dismissed from the church at Westerly, to form a Sabbath-keeping church in that place. The ordination took place July 12^th, 1746.

Eld. Maxson was now approaching the verge of life. The weight of years and many infirmities pressed upon him. He could say with the apostle, "I have fought the good fight, I have kept the faith," and could look with him to the crown laid up, to be conferred by the Master whom he served. He died July 1747 in the 81^st year of his age (Maxon, Dan (submitter); John Maxson, second, 166601747; http://www.paintedhills.org/POTTER/JohnMaxsonII.htm; printed 6/8/2004.)

Biography: __ ___ ____ _______________, _______________, _______________, _______________; John (b. 1667, Westerly RI; d. Jul. 1748) m. 1698, Jan. 19, Judith Clarke (b. 1667, Oct. 12, dau. of Joseph & Bethia (Hubbard) Clarke).

 

1712, Aug. 21. Ordained as Deacon of Seventh Day Baptist Church.

 

1716. Freeman.

 

1719, Jul. 5. Ordained as Elder.

 

1748, Jul. 25. Inventory, L277, 5s. 4d., viz.: pocket book, money and wearing apparel L34, 1s. 4d., books and gloves L1, 7s., cow, heifer, parts of bible, Josephus' History, part of a warming pan, part of a spinning wheel, 7 sheep, old mare, calf, 2 wether sheep, L20 due next Christmas for a sheep, &c. Administration to son Captain John Maxson, who took receipts in the next year from his sisters' husbands, and from his nephew Joseph (unknown author, Genealogical Dictionary of Rhode, p. 342-3.)

Birth: 12 Oct 1666 _______________, Westerly, Washington Co., RI.

Marriage: 19 Jan 1687 _______________, Westerly, Washington Co., RI; book 2, page 78 (Arnold, Vital Record of RI, p. 45.)

Court Proc: __ ___ 1725 _______________, Westerly, _______________, CT; Joseph Maxon Junr of Westerly, husbandman, vs. Hezekiah Wilcox of Westerly Black-smith, in custody of the sheriff, for L26 due by note dated 27 march 1724 witnessed by Sarah Renalls (mark S) and John Maxson ye second. Writ dated 20 July 1725 (Fiske, Newport Court Files, Item #239, 1725.)

Death: 28 Oct 1747 _______________, Westerly, Washington Co., RI.

Burial: __ ___ ____

Father: Rev. John M. MAXSON (b. 24 Mar 1638, d. 17 Dec 1720)

Mother: Mary MOSHER (b. 1641, d. 2 Feb 1718)

__________________________________________________________________________

 

Spouse: Judith CLARKE

Birth: 12 Oct 1667 Newport, Newport Co., RI, _______________.

Name-Marr: 19 Jan 1687 MAXSON(Arnold, Vital Record of RI, p. 45.)

Death: 17 Jul 1747 _______________, Westerly, Washington Co., RI.

Burial: __ ___ ____

Father: Joseph CLARKE (b. 11 Feb 1641, d. 11 Jan 1725)

Mother: Bethiah HUBBARD (b. 19 Dec 1646, d. 17 Apr 1707)

__________________________________________________________________________

 

Ten Known Children

__________________________________________________________________________

 

F Judith MAXSON (Davis-Johnson, G. Maria; mjohnson80@adelphia.net; "Descendents of Seventh Day Baptist, William Davis (1663-1745) Wales>PA>RI>NJ>WV>NY>WI and other family branches"; 3 June 2004; www.ancestry.com.) (Davis-Johnson, G. Maria; mjohnson80@adelphia.net; "Descendents of Seventh Day Baptist, William Davis (1663-1745) Wales>PA>RI>NJ>WV>NY>WI and other family branches"; 3 June 2004; www.ancestry.com.) (Davis-Johnson, G. Maria; mjohnson80@adelphia.net; "Descendents of Seventh Day Baptist, William Davis (1663-1745) Wales>PA>RI>NJ>WV>NY>WI and other family branches"; 3 June 2004; www.ancestry.com.)

Birth: 23 Sep 1689 _______________, Westerly, Washington Co., RI (Davis-Johnson, G. Maria; mjohnson80@adelphia.net; "Descendents of Seventh Day Baptist, William Davis (1663-1745) Wales>PA>RI>NJ>WV>NY>WI and other family branches"; 3 June 2004; www.ancestry.com.) (Arnold, Vital Record of RI, p. 116.).

Marriage: 24 Nov 1711 Jonathan2 ROGERS (b. 1690, d. 1777), son of Jonathan1 ROGERS and Naomi BURDICK; _______________, New London, New London Co., CT.

Daughter: 30 Nov 1712 Judith ROGERS; _______________, New London, New London Co., CT (Davis-Johnson, G. Maria; mjohnson80@adelphia.net; "Descendents of Seventh Day Baptist, William Davis (1663-1745) Wales>PA>RI>NJ>WV>NY>WI and other family branches"; 3 June 2004; www.ancestry.com.).

Son: 24 Nov 1714 Jonathan ROGERS; _______________, New London, New London Co., CT (Davis-Johnson, G. Maria; mjohnson80@adelphia.net; "Descendents of Seventh Day Baptist, William Davis (1663-1745) Wales>PA>RI>NJ>WV>NY>WI and other family branches"; 3 June 2004; www.ancestry.com.).

Daughter: circa __ ___ 1715 Tacy ROGERS; _______________, New London, New London Co., CT (Davis-Johnson, G. Maria; mjohnson80@adelphia.net; "Descendents of Seventh Day Baptist, William Davis (1663-1745) Wales>PA>RI>NJ>WV>NY>WI and other family branches"; 3 June 2004; www.ancestry.com.).

Daughter: 30 Aug 1716 Peace ROGERS; _______________, New London, New London Co., CT (Davis-Johnson, G. Maria; mjohnson80@adelphia.net; "Descendents of Seventh Day Baptist, William Davis (1663-1745) Wales>PA>RI>NJ>WV>NY>WI and other family branches"; 3 June 2004; www.ancestry.com.).

Son: 6 May 1718 Elder Nathan ROGERS; _______________, Waterford, New London Co., CT (Davis-Johnson, G. Maria; mjohnson80@adelphia.net; "Descendents of Seventh Day Baptist, William Davis (1663-1745) Wales>PA>RI>NJ>WV>NY>WI and other family branches"; 3 June 2004; www.ancestry.com.).

Son: 8 Mar 1718/19 David ROGERS; _______________, New London, New London Co., CT (Davis-Johnson, G. Maria; mjohnson80@adelphia.net; "Descendents of Seventh Day Baptist, William Davis (1663-1745) Wales>PA>RI>NJ>WV>NY>WI and other family branches"; 3 June 2004; www.ancestry.com.).

Daughter: 4 Oct 1722 Ruth ROGERS; _______________, New London, New London Co., CT (Davis-Johnson, G. Maria; mjohnson80@adelphia.net; "Descendents of Seventh Day Baptist, William Davis (1663-1745) Wales>PA>RI>NJ>WV>NY>WI and other family branches"; 3 June 2004; www.ancestry.com.).

Daughter: circa __ ___ 1724 Tracy ROGERS; _______________, New London, New London Co., CT (Davis-Johnson, G. Maria; mjohnson80@adelphia.net; "Descendents of Seventh Day Baptist, William Davis (1663-1745) Wales>PA>RI>NJ>WV>NY>WI and other family branches"; 3 June 2004; www.ancestry.com.).

Daughter: 25 Dec 1727 Hannah ROGERS; _______________, New London, New London Co., CT (Davis-Johnson, G. Maria; mjohnson80@adelphia.net; "Descendents of Seventh Day Baptist, William Davis (1663-1745) Wales>PA>RI>NJ>WV>NY>WI and other family branches"; 3 June 2004; www.ancestry.com.).

Daughter: 26 May 1731 Mary ROGERS; _______________, New London, New London Co., CT (Davis-Johnson, G. Maria; mjohnson80@adelphia.net; "Descendents of Seventh Day Baptist, William Davis (1663-1745) Wales>PA>RI>NJ>WV>NY>WI and other family branches"; 3 June 2004; www.ancestry.com.).

Death: between 1777 and 1778 _______________, New London, New London Co., CT.

Burial: __ ___ ____

__________________________________________________________________________

 

F Mary MAXSON (Davis-Johnson, G. Maria; mjohnson80@adelphia.net; "Descendents of Seventh Day Baptist, William Davis (1663-1745) Wales>PA>RI>NJ>WV>NY>WI and other family branches"; 3 June 2004; www.ancestry.com.) (Davis-Johnson, G. Maria; mjohnson80@adelphia.net; "Descendents of Seventh Day Baptist, William Davis (1663-1745) Wales>PA>RI>NJ>WV>NY>WI and other family branches"; 3 June 2004; www.ancestry.com.) (Davis-Johnson, G. Maria; mjohnson80@adelphia.net; "Descendents of Seventh Day Baptist, William Davis (1663-1745) Wales>PA>RI>NJ>WV>NY>WI and other family branches"; 3 June 2004; www.ancestry.com.)

Birth: 26 Oct 1691 _______________, Westerly, Washington Co., RI (Davis-Johnson, G. Maria; mjohnson80@adelphia.net; "Descendents of Seventh Day Baptist, William Davis (1663-1745) Wales>PA>RI>NJ>WV>NY>WI and other family branches"; 3 June 2004; www.ancestry.com.) (Arnold, Vital Record of RI, p. 116.).

Death: 16 Mar 1692 _______________, Westerly, Washington Co., RI; Year is actually 1691/2 (Davis-Johnson, G. Maria; mjohnson80@adelphia.net; "Descendents of Seventh Day Baptist, William Davis (1663-1745) Wales>PA>RI>NJ>WV>NY>WI and other family branches"; 3 June 2004; www.ancestry.com.) (Arnold, Vital Record of RI, p. 116.)

Marriage? __ ___ ____

Burial: __ ___ ____

__________________________________________________________________________

 

F Bethiah MAXSON (Davis-Johnson, G. Maria; mjohnson80@adelphia.net; "Descendents of Seventh Day Baptist, William Davis (1663-1745) Wales>PA>RI>NJ>WV>NY>WI and other family branches"; 3 June 2004; www.ancestry.com.) (Davis-Johnson, G. Maria; mjohnson80@adelphia.net; "Descendents of Seventh Day Baptist, William Davis (1663-1745) Wales>PA>RI>NJ>WV>NY>WI and other family branches"; 3 June 2004; www.ancestry.com.) (Davis-Johnson, G. Maria; mjohnson80@adelphia.net; "Descendents of Seventh Day Baptist, William Davis (1663-1745) Wales>PA>RI>NJ>WV>NY>WI and other family branches"; 3 June 2004; www.ancestry.com.)

Birth: 31 Jul 1693 _______________, Westerly, Washington Co., RI (Davis-Johnson, G. Maria; mjohnson80@adelphia.net; "Descendents of Seventh Day Baptist, William Davis (1663-1745) Wales>PA>RI>NJ>WV>NY>WI and other family branches"; 3 June 2004; www.ancestry.com.) (Arnold, Vital Record of RI, p. 116.).

Marriage 1: __ ___ 1715 _______________, Westerly, Washington Co., RI; She married Joseph Maxson II (b. 10 Mar 1691/2, Westerly, RI; d. 1747, Shrewsbury, NJ), son of Rev. Joseph and Tacy (Burdick) (Davis-Johnson, G. Maria; mjohnson80@adelphia.net; "Descendents of Seventh Day Baptist, William Davis (1663-1745) Wales>PA>RI>NJ>WV>NY>WI and other family branches"; 3 June 2004; www.ancestry.com.)

Death: __ ___ 1747 _______________, Shrewsbury, Monmouth Co., NJ (Davis-Johnson, G. Maria; mjohnson80@adelphia.net; "Descendents of Seventh Day Baptist, William Davis (1663-1745) Wales>PA>RI>NJ>WV>NY>WI and other family branches"; 3 June 2004; www.ancestry.com.).

Marriage? __ ___ ____

Burial: __ ___ ____

__________________________________________________________________________

 

F Elizabeth MAXSON

Birth: 7 Nov 1695 _______________, Westerly, Washington Co., RI (Arnold, Vital Record of RI, p. 116.).

Marriage: 25 Aug 1715 Rev. John1 DAVIS (b. 5 May 1692, d. 14 Aug 1750), son of William2 DAVIS and Elizabeth BRINLEY; _______________, Westerly, Washington Co., RI; They were married by Thomas Hiscox, Justice. The original record is in book 2, page 106 (Arnold, Vital Record of RI, p. 45.)

Daughter: 17 Apr 1717 Elizabeth DAVIS; _______________, Westerly, Washington Co., RI (Davis-Johnson, G. Maria; mjohnson80@adelphia.net; "Descendents of Seventh Day Baptist, William Davis (1663-1745) Wales>PA>RI>NJ>WV>NY>WI and other family branches"; 3 June 2004; www.ancestry.com.) (Arnold, Vital Record of RI, p. 99.).

Son: 15 May 1719 Rev. Capt. Thomas "William" DAVIS; _______________, Westerly, Washington Co., RI (Davis-Johnson, G. Maria; mjohnson80@adelphia.net; "Descendents of Seventh Day Baptist, William Davis (1663-1745) Wales>PA>RI>NJ>WV>NY>WI and other family branches"; 3 June 2004; www.ancestry.com.) (Arnold, Vital Record of RI, p. 99.).

Daughter: 14 Apr 1721 Martha DAVIS; _______________, Westerly, Washington Co., RI (Arnold, Vital Record of RI, p. 99.).

Son: 18 Sep 1723 Rev. John2 DAVIS; _______________, Westerly, Washington Co., RI (Arnold, Vital Record of RI, p. 99.).

Son: 24 Sep 1726 Rev. Joseph DAVIS; _______________, Westerly, Washington Co., RI (Davis-Johnson, G. Maria; mjohnson80@adelphia.net; "Descendents of Seventh Day Baptist, William Davis (1663-1745) Wales>PA>RI>NJ>WV>NY>WI and other family branches"; 3 June 2004; www.ancestry.com.) (Arnold, Vital Record of RI, p. 99.).

Daughter: 23 Jan 1728/29 Anna DAVIS; _______________, Westerly, Washington Co., RI (Davis-Johnson, G. Maria; mjohnson80@adelphia.net; "Descendents of Seventh Day Baptist, William Davis (1663-1745) Wales>PA>RI>NJ>WV>NY>WI and other family branches"; 3 June 2004; www.ancestry.com.) (Arnold, Vital Record of RI, p. 99.).

Daughter: 7 Apr 1731 Judith DAVIS; _______________, Westerly, Washington Co., RI (Davis-Johnson, G. Maria; mjohnson80@adelphia.net; "Descendents of Seventh Day Baptist, William Davis (1663-1745) Wales>PA>RI>NJ>WV>NY>WI and other family branches"; 3 June 2004; www.ancestry.com.) (Arnold, Vital Record of RI, p. 99.).

Daughter: between 1733 and 1735 Experience DAVIS; _______________, Westerly, Washington Co., RI (Davis-Johnson, G. Maria; mjohnson80@adelphia.net; "Descendents of Seventh Day Baptist, William Davis (1663-1745) Wales>PA>RI>NJ>WV>NY>WI and other family branches"; 3 June 2004; www.ancestry.com.).

Daughter: 5 Dec 1737 Mary "Molly" DAVIS; _______________, Westerly, Washington Co., RI (Davis-Johnson, G. Maria; mjohnson80@adelphia.net; "Descendents of Seventh Day Baptist, William Davis (1663-1745) Wales>PA>RI>NJ>WV>NY>WI and other family branches"; 3 June 2004; www.ancestry.com.).

Death: 18 Apr 1751 _______________, Shrewsbury, Monmouth Co., NJ.

Burial: __ ___ ____

__________________________________________________________________________

 

F Hannah MAXSON (Davis-Johnson, G. Maria; mjohnson80@adelphia.net; "Descendents of Seventh Day Baptist, William Davis (1663-1745) Wales>PA>RI>NJ>WV>NY>WI and other family branches"; 3 June 2004; www.ancestry.com.) (Davis-Johnson, G. Maria; mjohnson80@adelphia.net; "Descendents of Seventh Day Baptist, William Davis (1663-1745) Wales>PA>RI>NJ>WV>NY>WI and other family branches"; 3 June 2004; www.ancestry.com.) (Davis-Johnson, G. Maria; mjohnson80@adelphia.net; "Descendents of Seventh Day Baptist, William Davis (1663-1745) Wales>PA>RI>NJ>WV>NY>WI and other family branches"; 3 June 2004; www.ancestry.com.)

Birth: 13 Jun 1698 _______________, Westerly, Washington Co., RI (Davis-Johnson, G. Maria; mjohnson80@adelphia.net; "Descendents of Seventh Day Baptist, William Davis (1663-1745) Wales>PA>RI>NJ>WV>NY>WI and other family branches"; 3 June 2004; www.ancestry.com.) (Arnold, Vital Record of RI, p. 116.).

Marriage 1: __ ___ 1717 _______________, Westerly, Washington Co., RI; She married Capt. John Maxson (b. abt. 1663, Westerly, RI; d. 1775, Hopkinton, RI), son of Rev. Joseph and Tacy (Burdick) Maxson (Davis-Johnson, G. Maria; mjohnson80@adelphia.net; "Descendents of Seventh Day Baptist, William Davis (1663-1745) Wales>PA>RI>NJ>WV>NY>WI and other family branches"; 3 June 2004; www.ancestry.com.)

Death: before __ ___ 1744 _______________, Hopkinton, Washington Co., RI (Davis-Johnson, G. Maria; mjohnson80@adelphia.net; "Descendents of Seventh Day Baptist, William Davis (1663-1745) Wales>PA>RI>NJ>WV>NY>WI and other family branches"; 3 June 2004; www.ancestry.com.).

Marriage? __ ___ ____

Burial: __ ___ ____

__________________________________________________________________________

 

M John MAXSON (Davis-Johnson, G. Maria; mjohnson80@adelphia.net; "Descendents of Seventh Day Baptist, William Davis (1663-1745) Wales>PA>RI>NJ>WV>NY>WI and other family branches"; 3 June 2004; www.ancestry.com.) (Davis-Johnson, G. Maria; mjohnson80@adelphia.net; "Descendents of Seventh Day Baptist, William Davis (1663-1745) Wales>PA>RI>NJ>WV>NY>WI and other family branches"; 3 June 2004; www.ancestry.com.) (Davis-Johnson, G. Maria; mjohnson80@adelphia.net; "Descendents of Seventh Day Baptist, William Davis (1663-1745) Wales>PA>RI>NJ>WV>NY>WI and other family branches"; 3 June 2004; www.ancestry.com.)

Birth: 21 Apr 1701 _______________, Westerly, Washington Co., RI (Davis-Johnson, G. Maria; mjohnson80@adelphia.net; "Descendents of Seventh Day Baptist, William Davis (1663-1745) Wales>PA>RI>NJ>WV>NY>WI and other family branches"; 3 June 2004; www.ancestry.com.) (Arnold, Vital Record of RI, p. 117.).

Marriage 1: 26 Sep 1724 _______________, Westerly, Washington Co., RI; He married Thankful Randall (b. 1708, Westerly, RI; d. 1785), daughter of Matthew and Eleanor (Utter) Randall (Davis-Johnson, G. Maria; mjohnson80@adelphia.net; "Descendents of Seventh Day Baptist, William Davis (1663-1745) Wales>PA>RI>NJ>WV>NY>WI and other family branches"; 3 June 2004; www.ancestry.com.)

Death: __ ___ 1786 _______________, Westerly, Washington Co., RI (Davis-Johnson, G. Maria; mjohnson80@adelphia.net; "Descendents of Seventh Day Baptist, William Davis (1663-1745) Wales>PA>RI>NJ>WV>NY>WI and other family branches"; 3 June 2004; www.ancestry.com.).

Marriage? __ ___ ____

Burial: __ ___ ____

__________________________________________________________________________

 

F Dorothy MAXSON (Davis-Johnson, G. Maria; mjohnson80@adelphia.net; "Descendents of Seventh Day Baptist, William Davis (1663-1745) Wales>PA>RI>NJ>WV>NY>WI and other family branches"; 3 June 2004; www.ancestry.com.) (Davis-Johnson, G. Maria; mjohnson80@adelphia.net; "Descendents of Seventh Day Baptist, William Davis (1663-1745) Wales>PA>RI>NJ>WV>NY>WI and other family branches"; 3 June 2004; www.ancestry.com.) (Davis-Johnson, G. Maria; mjohnson80@adelphia.net; "Descendents of Seventh Day Baptist, William Davis (1663-1745) Wales>PA>RI>NJ>WV>NY>WI and other family branches"; 3 June 2004; www.ancestry.com.)

Birth: 30 Oct 1703 _______________, Westerly, Washington Co., RI (Davis-Johnson, G. Maria; mjohnson80@adelphia.net; "Descendents of Seventh Day Baptist, William Davis (1663-1745) Wales>PA>RI>NJ>WV>NY>WI and other family branches"; 3 June 2004; www.ancestry.com.) (Arnold, Vital Record of RI, p. 117.).

Marriage 1: 24 Jul 1724 _______________, Westerly, Washington Co., RI; She married Thomas Burdick (b. abt. 1706, Westerly, RI; d. after 1761), son of Samuel and Mary (Foster) Burdick (Davis-Johnson, G. Maria; mjohnson80@adelphia.net; "Descendents of Seventh Day Baptist, William Davis (1663-1745) Wales>PA>RI>NJ>WV>NY>WI and other family branches"; 3 June 2004; www.ancestry.com.)

Death: between 1740 and 1748 _______________, _______________, _______________, _______________ (Davis-Johnson, G. Maria; mjohnson80@adelphia.net; "Descendents of Seventh Day Baptist, William Davis (1663-1745) Wales>PA>RI>NJ>WV>NY>WI and other family branches"; 3 June 2004; www.ancestry.com.).

Marriage? __ ___ ____

Burial: __ ___ ____

__________________________________________________________________________

 

F Susan MAXSON (Davis-Johnson, G. Maria; mjohnson80@adelphia.net; "Descendents of Seventh Day Baptist, William Davis (1663-1745) Wales>PA>RI>NJ>WV>NY>WI and other family branches"; 3 June 2004; www.ancestry.com.) (Davis-Johnson, G. Maria; mjohnson80@adelphia.net; "Descendents of Seventh Day Baptist, William Davis (1663-1745) Wales>PA>RI>NJ>WV>NY>WI and other family branches"; 3 June 2004; www.ancestry.com.) (Davis-Johnson, G. Maria; mjohnson80@adelphia.net; "Descendents of Seventh Day Baptist, William Davis (1663-1745) Wales>PA>RI>NJ>WV>NY>WI and other family branches"; 3 June 2004; www.ancestry.com.)

Birth: 19 Oct 1706 _______________, Westerly, Washington Co., RI (Davis-Johnson, G. Maria; mjohnson80@adelphia.net; "Descendents of Seventh Day Baptist, William Davis (1663-1745) Wales>PA>RI>NJ>WV>NY>WI and other family branches"; 3 June 2004; www.ancestry.com.) (Arnold, Vital Record of RI, p. 117.).

Marriage 1: __ ___ 1725 _______________, Westerly, Washington Co., RI; She married Zacheus Reynolds (b. abt. 1706, Westerly, RI), son of Thomas and Sarah (Clarke) Reynolds (Davis-Johnson, G. Maria; mjohnson80@adelphia.net; "Descendents of Seventh Day Baptist, William Davis (1663-1745) Wales>PA>RI>NJ>WV>NY>WI and other family branches"; 3 June 2004; www.ancestry.com.)

Marriage? __ ___ ____

Death: __ ___ ____

Burial: __ ___ ____

__________________________________________________________________________

 

M Joseph MAXSON (Davis-Johnson, G. Maria; mjohnson80@adelphia.net; "Descendents of Seventh Day Baptist, William Davis (1663-1745) Wales>PA>RI>NJ>WV>NY>WI and other family branches"; 3 June 2004; www.ancestry.com.) (Davis-Johnson, G. Maria; mjohnson80@adelphia.net; "Descendents of Seventh Day Baptist, William Davis (1663-1745) Wales>PA>RI>NJ>WV>NY>WI and other family branches"; 3 June 2004; www.ancestry.com.) (Davis-Johnson, G. Maria; mjohnson80@adelphia.net; "Descendents of Seventh Day Baptist, William Davis (1663-1745) Wales>PA>RI>NJ>WV>NY>WI and other family branches"; 3 June 2004; www.ancestry.com.)

Birth: __ Dec 1709 _______________, Westerly, Washington Co., RI (Davis-Johnson, G. Maria; mjohnson80@adelphia.net; "Descendents of Seventh Day Baptist, William Davis (1663-1745) Wales>PA>RI>NJ>WV>NY>WI and other family branches"; 3 June 2004; www.ancestry.com.) (Arnold, Vital Record of RI, p. 117.).

Death: __ Jul 1710 _______________, Westerly, Washington Co., RI (Davis-Johnson, G. Maria; mjohnson80@adelphia.net; "Descendents of Seventh Day Baptist, William Davis (1663-1745) Wales>PA>RI>NJ>WV>NY>WI and other family branches"; 3 June 2004; www.ancestry.com.).

Marriage? __ ___ ____

Burial: __ ___ ____

__________________________________________________________________________

 

F Avis MAXSON (Davis-Johnson, G. Maria; mjohnson80@adelphia.net; "Descendents of Seventh Day Baptist, William Davis (1663-1745) Wales>PA>RI>NJ>WV>NY>WI and other family branches"; 3 June 2004; www.ancestry.com.) (Davis-Johnson, G. Maria; mjohnson80@adelphia.net; "Descendents of Seventh Day Baptist, William Davis (1663-1745) Wales>PA>RI>NJ>WV>NY>WI and other family branches"; 3 June 2004; www.ancestry.com.) (Davis-Johnson, G. Maria; mjohnson80@adelphia.net; "Descendents of Seventh Day Baptist, William Davis (1663-1745) Wales>PA>RI>NJ>WV>NY>WI and other family branches"; 3 June 2004; www.ancestry.com.)

Birth: 27 Dec 1712 _______________, Westerly, Washington Co., RI (Davis-Johnson, G. Maria; mjohnson80@adelphia.net; "Descendents of Seventh Day Baptist, William Davis (1663-1745) Wales>PA>RI>NJ>WV>NY>WI and other family branches"; 3 June 2004; www.ancestry.com.) (Arnold, Vital Record of RI, p. 117.).

Marriage 1: 5 Nov 1731 _______________, Westerly, Washington Co., RI; She married Samuel Hubbard Burdick (b. abt 1710, Westerly, RI; d. 1775), son of Thomas Sr., and Martha (Posner) Burdick (Davis-Johnson, G. Maria; mjohnson80@adelphia.net; "Descendents of Seventh Day Baptist, William Davis (1663-1745) Wales>PA>RI>NJ>WV>NY>WI and other family branches"; 3 June 2004; www.ancestry.com.)

Marriage? __ ___ ____

Death: __ ___ ____

Burial: __ ___ ____

__________________________________________________________________________

 

 

 

 

Family Group Sheet

 

 

Subject: Richard MAXSON

Name-Var: __ ___ ____ (Davis-Johnson, G. Maria; mjohnson80@adelphia.net; "Descendents of Seventh Day Baptist, William Davis (1663-1745) Wales>PA>RI>NJ>WV>NY>WI and other family branches"; 3 June 2004; www.ancestry.com.)

Biography: __ ___ ____ _______________, _______________, _______________, _______________; Richard Maxson and his wife, who came from England, were the ancestors of all the Seventh-Day Baptist Maxsons in this country. His wife's Christian name was Goodwife (Note: the author of this article obviously was unaware that 'Goodwife' was a term of respect used for all married women during this time period. **map**), her surname now unknown in Boston in 1634, where he was a blacksmith and worked for James Everill. He is shown by the R.I. Colonial Records to have been a resident of the town of Portsmouth, R.I. as early as 1638. He was amongst the list of freemen who settled Newport, at the south end of the island, the same year, getting in the original division of the land. 36 acres, as the deeds show. In 1643 his wife is mentioned as "Goodwife Maxson, widow of Richard Maxson." It is supposed that he and his son Richard were killed by Indians, that his widow escaped, with others, in an open boat, and that her son John was born soon afterward, in 1638. Several authorities state that he was the first white child born on the island of Rhode Island. In 1661 John joined a company formed at Newport for the purchase and Settlement of the tract of land called Misquanicut. (Andrews, Mary S.; A Brief History of a few Early Settlers of Rhode Island and some of their Descendants; 1910; Farina, IL; transcribed by Daisy (Vincent) Schrader, 5 June 1926 (http://www.lauricellas.com/clint/richmnt.htm; downloaded 18 June 2004).)

Biography: __ ___ ____ _______________, _______________, _______________, _______________; Richard Maxson was a blacksmith. He was admitted to the church in Boston Oct 2, 1634 with his wife Rebecca. In March 1638 it appears that he, along with others (most notably Ann Hutchinson), were banished from the Massachusetts Colony for "pestilent heresy" and moved to the Providence RI area where they purchased, with the aid of Roger Williams, the Island of Aquidneck. The building of Pocasset (Portsmouth) began in March of 1638. Blacksmiths were then factors of great importance. They held a monopoly of work that was vitally ncessary, and the colony might suffer from the abuse of any power that they held. It was, therefore, a proper function of the Court to prevent any excessive charges being made by the blacksmith whom the colony had encouraged to settle in its midst. Whether it was prosperity or the lack of it that went to his head, Richard Maxson became one of the first "profiteers" when he decided to raise prices. His name appears in Portsmouth court records in 1639 as being "detected for his oppression in the way of trade." In 1639 a change of government occurred in Pocasset. The ousted people established a plantation at Newport and took all of the Pocasset records with them. This group included John Goggeshall. The remaining group, including Maxsons and Ann Hutchinson, on April 30, 1639 formed a new compact swearing themselves as "The legal subjects of his Majestie, King Charles." Shortly thereafter, the new colony in Newport, confronted with the urgent need for a Blacksmith, invited Richard Maxson to join them, which he apparently did. In 1642 Richard Maxson sold land at Portsmouth, including his home, and moved to Long Island accompanied by his wife Rebecca, his son Richard then 13, daughter Rebecca about 11, and John who was born in 1638 just after the family landed on the island of Aquidneck. Family tradition says that in 1643, the settlers were driven from their homes by an Indian uprising and many were killed. The rest took refuge in a shallop. The next day Richard Maxson, his son Richard and another son landed at Throgg's Neck, NY to get food and supplies for those marooned in the boat and were massacred by Indians. His wife and two children, Rebecca and John, escaped int he boat. They finally reached Newport where they found sanctuary. Several years after Richard Maxson's death and certainly after 1647, his widow Rebecca married John Harndell. There were no children of this second marriage (Mosher, John C.; john@jcmosher.com; RootsWeb's WorldConnect Project: Mosher/Adams Family Genealogy; http://worldconnect.rootsweb.com/cgi-bin/igm.cgi?op=GET&db=jcmosher%5Fma&id=I900&print...; printed 7/2/2004.)

Biography: __ ___ ____ _______________, _______________, _______________, _______________; 1634 - Richard Maxson in Boston, Massachusetts

 

The first MAXSON who came to the New World was Richard Maxson (Magson). He was in Boston by 1634. At that time he was admitted to the First Church of Boston, being one of the four persons admitted on:

 

1d of the eight month, 1634:

Richard Magson servant to our brother James Everill

Nathaniel Chappell servant to our brother Atherton Haulgh

Rebekah Dixon our brother Richard Bellinghams maidservant

Judye Smyth our brother Edward Hutchinsons maidservant (Records of Admissions in the First Church of Boston, 1630-1687"; LDS microfilm #0856 694)

 

...Richard was a servant to James Everill who was a Leatherdresser and a Shoemaker. Richard was a Blacksmith(Battis, E. 1962. "Saints and Sectaries, Anne Hutchenson and the Antinomian Controversy in the MA Bay Colony).

 

Richard Maxson was also associated with the Hutchinsons. William Hutchinson, merchant was admitted on the "26th of the 8th month" while "Anne Hutchinson ye wife of our brother Wilm Hutchinson" was admitted on the "2d of ye 9th month, 1634". These Hutchinson records along with Richard's record, appear on the same page of the church record book. Richard may hav come with the Hutchinson group to Boston on the ship "Griffin" in 1634. He was not listed among the known passengers of that sip, but only forty one passengers out of about 100 were listed by name (Passenter List for the Grifin, 1634; http://members.aol.com/dcurtin1gene/grifin34.htm)

 

......

 

1638 - Richard Maxson in Portsmouth, Rhode Island

 

...Twenty three men signed the Portsmouth Compact on March 7, 1638 and became the first settlers of Portsmouth. Richard Maxson was not among them, but he appeared in the records of Portsmouth soon after. (Richards, Mrs. Byron U., 1936. "Inscriptions copied from Marked HIstorical Spots in Rhode Island 1636-1936".; RI Society of the DAR; Pawtucket, RI; p. 72-73)

 

An early record of Richard in Portsmouth was in 1638 when he and 58 other men were admitted as inhabitants of the island of Aquineck, "having submitted themselves to the government that is or shall be established." Some who became inhabitants at that time became Richard's immediate neighbors including Samuel Hutchinson, who was probably a son of nn Hutchinson.

 

Each settler was allotted 6 acres of land for a home-site. They could buy more land for two shillings an acre. Each settelr agreed to build a house within a year or loose their allotment.

 

Another early record of Richard Maxon at Portsmouth was a record dealing with his occupation as a blacksmith. It was a complaint about him.:

 

By the Judge and Elders on the 7th , 12th month, 1638/39

"Richard Maxon, Blacksmith, upon complaints made against him, was accordingly detected for his oppression in the way of his trade, who being convinced thereof, promised amendment and satisfaction." (Bartlett, J.R.; 1856; "Records of the Colony of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations in New England 163601663"; vol. 1, p. 66, 67, 70, 90-91).

 

Problems arose among the settlers. William Coddington, who had been elected as cief magistrate, acted as if he were lord of the land and wanted the settlers to leasthe land from him. But looking at the land conveyance record showed taht the land had been sold to Coddington and to his associates .. not to Coddington alone. The settlers were angry at Coddington, who then left with some of his followers, going to the south end of the island where they founded the town of Newport in 1639.

 

After Coddington left, the remaing settlers of Portsmouth signed a new compact. Richard Maxson's name was on this document signed by him plus twenty-eight other men. It said:

 

"April 30, 1639

We, whose names are under weitten doe acknowledge ourselves the legall subjects of his Majestie King Charles, and in his name doe hereby binde ourzelves into a civill body politicke, unto his lawes according to matters of justice." (Ibid.)

 

Life in Portsmouth was not calm. The residents had both big and smallproblems. Many of these were recorded inthe town meetings. For example, the damage caused by swine...

 

"Feb. 21, 1638

It is ordered, that the Swine that are upon the island shall be sent away from the plantation six miles up into the island, or unto some islands adjacent, by the 10th of the 2d, 1639, or else be shutt up that so they may be inoffensive to the Towne." (ibid)

 

The threat fromoutside authorities was a bigger problem. Coddington still gave the Portsmouth colonists trouble. He returned to Portsmouth with some armed men and tried to hold court there but he was ejected by people lead by Samuel Gorton, one of the settlers with an aggresive nature. Gorton himself later argued with the settlers, and left Portsmouth, eventually founding the town of Warwick, RI in 1642.

 

....Richard Maxsn also decided to go to New Amsterdam. In Portsmouth there is a record of him selling his house and land on June 25, 1642 to William Baulston. It was three parcels of land, comprising a total of 5 3/4 acres. Perhaps the sale was part of his prepartation to leave the area.

 

By 1642 Richard was married with a wife named Rebecca and had three children. His oldest son Richard, had been born in England. His daughter Rebecca possibly was born in the New World. His son John was born about 1638/39 and is said to be the first white child born on the Island of Aquineck. With his young family he made the fateful decision to go to New Amsterdam.

 

1643 Richard Maxson in Trogg's Neck (New Netherlands) New York

 

...Family tradition says that Richard Maxson and his oldest son Richard died in an Indian attack at Throgg's Neck. So the Maxson family may have been one of the 35 families who went to New York with the John Throckmorton group...

 

(NOTE: this author spends a lot of time talking about the Hutchinsons and Throckmorton, without ever having evidence that Richard Maxson was actually part of their group. Although the circumstantial evidence does suggest it, I do not feel it is necessary to include all of her speculations here. **map**)

 

In the beginning of the year 1643, the local Indians (mainly Weckquaesgeeks) had been attacked by northern Indians who wanted tribute from them. The local Indians refused, were attacked and asked the Dutch settlers for help. The Dutch colonists were used to trading with these Indians and did help. But then the Dutch Governor Kieft decided it was a good time to avenge the death of a few settlers killed in previous disputes. Kieft sent soldiers against the weakened Indians who were attacked while they were sleeping. In a bloddy massacre, the soldiers kiled men, women and children on the night of Feb. 25, 1643.

 

The Indians retaliated. Various local tribes banded together to eliminate the Dutch and everyone connected to them. They killed settlers and burned their homes. On Apr. 22, 1643, a weak peace was made. The Indians wanted to plant and harvest their corn and the Dutch settlers also were glad to take care of their crops and cattle. But as soon as the corn was harvested, the Indians attacked again.

 

This was the situation into which the new English settlers had come. Their lives were changed forever in this year which was called the year of blood because of the great devastation which occurred.

 

In Aug or Sept, 1643, along the Long Island Sound, the Indian raid, lead mainlyh by the Weckquaesgeeks, started their attack at the settlement of Thomas Cornell. His family was absent but the Indians destroyed his house and barns and killed farm laborers tehre. The Indians continued eastward attacking each farm that lay in their path. They reached the home of John Throckmorton, whose family fled into a boat while their home was burned.

 

John Winthrop, Governor of Massachusetts, wrote about the Indian raid in his journal in September of 1643. He said that after the Indians had killed 15 Dutchmen, they "set upon the English who dwelt under the Dutch. They came to Mrs. Hutchinson's in way of friendly neighborhood, as they had been accustomed, and taking their opportunity, killed her and Mr. Collins, her son-in-law and all her family and such of Mr. Throckmorton's and Mr. Cornhill's families as were at home; in all sixteen, and put their cattle into their houses and there burnt them. By a good providence of God, there was a boat came in there at the same instant, to which some women and children fled, and so were saved, but two of the obatmen going p to the houses were shot and killed."

 

Bown in his book on the Maxson family, said thatRichard Maxson and his family were driven from their home by the Indians in a raid at Throgg's Neck. They fled to a shallop (boat). The following day, Richard and his 13 year old son Richard, along with some other men, went ashore to get food but were killed by the Indians. Those who had remained in the boat escaped and returned to Aquineck.

 

......Among the surviving English settlers who returned to Aquineck, Rhode Island, was the widow Maxson and her chldren

(Maxson, Early Maxsons, p. 2-9.)

Biography: __ ___ ____ _______________, _______________, _______________, _______________; Of Boston, Mass.; Portsmouth, RI

 

He was a blacksmith.

 

1624, Oct. 2. He was admitted to the church; being at this time in the employ of James Everill.

 

1638. Portsmouth. He and others were admitted as inhabitants of the island of Aquidneck, having submitted themselves to the government that is or shall be established.

 

1639, Feb. 7. "Richard Maxson, blacksmith, upon complaints made against him, was accordingly detected for his oppression in the way of his trade, who being convinced thereof, promised amendment and satisfaction."

 

1639, Apr. 30. He and twenty-eight others signed the following compact: "We whose names are underwritten, do acknowledge ourselves the legal subjects of his majesty King Charles, and in his name do hereby bind ourslves into a civil body politicke, unto his laws according to matters of justice."

 

1640, Mar. 6. He had 36 acres recorded.

 

Family tradition says that he and his son Richard were killed by Indians at Thregg's Neck, afterwards Maxson's Point (unknown author, Genealogical Dictionary of Rhode, p. 342-3.)

Birth: __ ___ 1602 _______________, _______________, _______________, England.

Marriage: __ ___ 1624 _______________, _______________, _______________, England.

Death: __ ___ 1643 _______________, Throgs Neck, Bronx Co., NY (Mosher, John C.; john@jcmosher.com; RootsWeb's WorldConnect Project: Mosher/Adams Family Genealogy; http://worldconnect.rootsweb.com/cgi-bin/igm.cgi?op=GET&db=jcmosher%5Fma&id=I900&print...; printed 7/2/2004.).

Burial: __ ___ ____

Father:

Mother:

__________________________________________________________________________

 

Spouse: Rebecca MOSHER is still living

Father:

Mother:

__________________________________________________________________________

 

Three Known Children

__________________________________________________________________________

 

M Richard MAXSON (Brown, Maxson Family, p. 2.) (Brown, Maxson Family, p. 2.) (Brown, Maxson Family, p. 2.)

Birth: __ ___ ____

Marriage? __ ___ ____

Death: _______________, _______________, _______________, _______________; Died aged 13 years (Brown, Maxson Family, p. 2.)

Burial: __ ___ ____

__________________________________________________________________________

 

F Rebecca MAXSON

Birth: __ ___ ____

Daughter: __ ___ 1641 Mary MOSHER; _______________, Portsmouth, Newport Co., RI (Davis-Johnson, G. Maria; mjohnson80@adelphia.net; "Descendents of Seventh Day Baptist, William Davis (1663-1745) Wales>PA>RI>NJ>WV>NY>WI and other family branches"; 3 June 2004; www.ancestry.com.).

Marriage: __ ___ ____ Hugh MOSHER (b. 1633, d. 1694), son of Nicholas MOSHER and Lydia MAXSON; _______________, _______________, _______________, _______________.

Son: Rev. Hugh MOSHER

Son: John MOSHER

Son: Nicholas MOSHER

Son: Joseph MOSHER

Son: James MOSHER

Death: __ ___ ____

Burial: __ ___ ____

__________________________________________________________________________

 

M Rev. John M. MAXSON

Biography: __ ___ ____ _______________, _______________, _______________, _______________; John Maxson, born in 1638. Married Mary, the daughter of Hugh Mosher, who was also one of the purchasers of Misquanicut. She was born in 1640. Soon after settling in Mesquanicut, John and Mary Maxson embraced the Sabbath, and joined the church at Newport. When the Westerly congregation was set off as a separate church he was ordained to be its first pastor and served until his death, December 17, 1720. His wife died February 2, 1718. They had seven children, Tacy, John Jr., Joseph, and Jonathan, Dorothy, Mary, and Hannah.

 

John Maxson Sr., represented Westerly in the Colonial Assembly in1 670, 1686, 1687, 1688, 1689, 1690, 1693, 1705. He and his wife were buried in the Clarke burying ground, near the old meeting house. His grave was marked with a blue slate stone, upon which was the following inscription: "Here lieth the body of John Maxson, died Dec. ye 17, 1720, in the 82nd year of his age." In 1884 their remains were removed to the "Circle". (Andrews, Mary S.; A Brief History of a few Early Settlers of Rhode Island and some of their Descendants; 1910; Farina, IL; transcribed by Daisy (Vincent) Schrader, 5 June 1926; http://www.lauricellas.com/clint/richmnt.htm; downloaded 18 June 2004).

Biography: __ ___ ____ _______________, _______________, _______________, _______________; MAXSON FAMILY

 

Maxson and Maxon family records point to Rhode Island and converge to John Maxson, Sr. and wife Mary Mosher of Newport and Westerly, R.I. Mary (Mosher) Maxson was a daughter of Hugh Mosher. She died Feb. 2, 1718. Hugh Mosher came to Salem, Massachusetts, in 1632. Later he was one of five who owned the township of Westerly, R.I. John Maxson was a native of R.I. and was of the second generation in America. No descendants of his parents, other than the descendants of John Maxson, have been discovered; accordingly the records which follow, though tracing return to the parents of John Maxson, the emigrant family, are usually indicated as originating with John Maxson, Sr. and wife Mary (Mosher) Maxson.

 

There is a tradition recorded in the diary of G.H. Richardson, now in the collections of the Newport Historical Society, which reads: "Today, Dec. 20, 1720, died John Maxson Dr., age 82 yrs. He lost his father and brother Richard who were attacked and killed by the Indians. Mrs. Maxson escaped in a shallop to Acquetneck and her son was born soon after the landing in the spring of 1638 before the purchase of the island from the Indians. He was the first white child born on the island of Rhode Island." Be this as it may, in 1639, Richard Maxson was one of the 14 men who signed their names, 15 others making their marks to the following:

 

"We whose names are underwritten do acknowledge legal subjects of his majesty, King Charles and in his name do bind ourselves into a civil body polotike unto his laws according to matters of justice." The 29 men were of the settlement which later was called Acquetneck (R.I. Records, Vol. I, p. 70). Mar. 6, 1640 ownership of 36 acres was recorded to Richard Maxson of Acquetneck.

 

Richard's widow, goodwife, deeded away her property in 1644.

 

There is mention of one Maxson family, and only one has been found in the records of Massachusetts and R.I. before the time of John Maxson and family. Richard Maggsen was admitted to the church in Boston Aug. 2, 1634, a journeyman blacksmith employed by James Everell who was a "shoemaker" and had a tanyard. Dec. 7, 1638 complaints were made against one Richard Maxson at Portsmouth charging oppression in the way of his trade (blacksmith). He promised amendment and satisfaction.

 

From various sources the tradition is persistent that John Maxson's parents with others from Entland attempted a settlement at Throg's point, sometimes called Maxson's Point, about the beginning of the pequoit War. They were driven from their homes by the Indians and took refuge in a shallop. The next day Richard Maxson and his son Richard, said to have been 13 years old, and other men landed again to get goods and food when all were massacred by the Indians. Mrs. Maxson and others left on the boat escaped and after a trying voyage landed on the Island of Rhode Island where her son John was born in the spring of 1638. (Andrews, Mary S.; A Brief History of a few Early Settlers of Rhode Island and some of their Descendants; 1910; Farina, IL; transcribed by Daisy (Vincent) Schrader, 5 June 1926; http://www.lauricellas.com/clint/richmnt.htm; downloaded 18 June 2004).

 

The names Maxson and Maxon have variations in spelling as listed in the Census: Maxin; Maxen; Maxam; and other spellings. But we have found no descendents of John(2) Maxson who spell their names other than Maxson or Maxon. There were Maxham and Maxam families early in Mass. and eastern N.Y. Maxham and Maxam are given in the Appendix to carefully separate Maxham and Maxam from Maxson and Maxon.

 

In 1661 John(2) Maxson with others formed a company at Newport for purchasing and settling a tract of land called by the Indians Misquamcut which now comprises Westerly, Charlestown, and Hopkinton, R.I. He was married about 1665 and was made freeman at Westerly Oct. 29, 1668. He served as deputy to the general assembly from Westerly 1670, 1686, 1690, and 1705. He was overseer of the poor 1687. The colony of Westerly had connected itself as a branch to the Newport Seventy Day Baptist church of which William Hiscox was pastor. John Maxson Sr. was ordained to the office of Elder (pastor) to the congregation in and about Westerly, now called the First Hopkinton S.D.B.C. at Ashway, R.I.

 

John(2) Maxson made his will Jan. 22, 1716 which was probated Feb. 16, 1721. He was buried in the Clark burying ground near the Paytucket river where on a slate stone was the following inscription: "Here lieth the body of John Maxson, died Dec. 17, 1720 inthe 82nd year of his life". The early ministers of the First Hopkinton church have been reinterred on the spot where the church stood and a monument has been erected to their memory. (See p. 58 Brown-Hakes and Allied Families.) (Brown, Maxson Family, p. 1-2.)

Biography: __ ___ ____ _______________, _______________, _______________, _______________; Rev. John Maxson, 1st, was born in 1638, "being the first white child born on the island of Rhode Island." At his birth, his mother was a widow, his father having lately been killed by the Pequots. In 1661, we find him among the purchasers of Misquamicut, and his name is in the first roll of freemen in Westerly in 1669. On the organization of the Sabbatarian church in Westerly, in 108, he "was ordained to the place and office of an elder." He "was then an elder indeed," being seventy years of age, "ripe in judgment and good works, tried and found worthy." In 1710, at his request, the church invided John Maxson, 2d, William Davis, Joseph Clarke, Sen., George Stillman, Joseph Clarke, Jr., and Joseph Crandall, to assist him in public ministrations. On the 21st of August, 1712, Joseph Clarke, Jr., "was ordained an elder and colleague of Elder Maxson," and John Maxson, Jr., was at the same time ordained a deacon. The church now numbered "about 130 members." Mr. Maxson's colleague, Joseph Clarke, Jr., died June 5, 1719, when John Maxson, Jr., was proposed as an elder. In the same year, Thomas Hiscox was chose, first a deacon, and then an elder; thus the church had a pastor and two elders. The venerable pastor "sank peacefully to rest on the 17th of December, 1720, aged eighty-two years." He was laid in the Clarke burying-ground (Denison, Westerly and its Witnesses, p. 61.)

Biography: __ ___ ____ _______________, _______________, _______________, _______________; THE Seventh-day Baptist Memorial

VOL. 1] NEW YORK, APRIL, 1852. [NO.2.

Biographical Department

Copied from an original copy of Volume 1, No. 2, April, 1852, pp 49-58, of the Seventh-Day Baptist Memorial, a quarterly magazine, devoted to biography, history, and statistics. Published in New York, by the Seventh-Day Baptist Publishing Society, No. 9 Spruce Street.

Transcribed by Sheila Smith

Submitted By Dan Maxon

JOHN MAXSON, SENIOR

The advocates of the true Sabbath look with a dignified pride to the example of great and good men who have sustained the banner of truth, through trials and sufferings, from generation to generation, till the time when that faith was planted on the shores of America. Beginning coeval with the establishment of civilization on this continent, they were made partakers of many hardships and perils, to which they, as founders of their church organization here, were peculiarly exposed. They were nevertheless earnest, practical, God-fearing men; no mad enthusiasts, crazed with new doctrines, and following in misguided zeal each ignis fatuus that flickered in the religious atmosphere. For, having been thought liberality by persecution, and steadfastness by suffering, they were at once good citizens and exalted Christians.

Among them was the subject of the present sketch, the first leading Elder of the Seventh-day Baptist Church in Westerly, R.I. His parents came from England, and were among the earliest settlers of New England, and also among the first who attempted a landing on the shores of Connecticut.

The party with which they were connected made a temporary settlement, it is supposed, near Throg’s Neck, hence for some time after called Maxson’s Point. They carried on a trade with the Indians, and prospered, until about the time of the breaking out of the Pequod War, in 1637, when the Indians who surrounded them, instigated probably by emissaries from the Pequods, suddenly abstained from intercourse with [page 50] the settlers. Upon their sending to the natives to inquire why they did not come in as usual to trade, they received answer, that they feared their dogs, which they allowed to go unconfined, but that if they would shut them up, they would come in again. The unsuspecting colonists, blinded by their apparent good will, complied with the condition; and their watchful sentinels once confined, the savages made an attack upon the settlement, and drove the whites to their shallop. A portion of them landing in a boat the next day, to procure more provisions and produce from their gardens, were again attacked, and Mr. Maxson and his son Richard were killed. Mrs. Maxson escaped with the survivors in the shallop, and after a long and tedious passage, landed on the island of Aquetneck, the nearest place on the coast at that time free from danger of the hostile Indians; where, soon after landing, John was born. This was in the spring of 1638; and as the island was purchased of the Sachems Miantonimoh and Canonicus on the 24^th of March of that year, and settled by the English immediately thereafter, Mrs. Maxson remained there, and devoted herself to the support and education of her son. Mr. Maxson, thus has the distinction of being the first white child born on the island of Rhode Island, or Aquetneck as it was then called.

This is the substance of the family traditions, and we regret that they do not give us more knowledge of the Christian mother and heroine. We would have been glad at least to have known that she lived to be repaid for all her sorrows and privations by seeing her son advanced to the great usefulness and consideration to which he attained. Oh, how the great usefulness and consideration to which he attained. Oh, how dear that hope to the heart of the Christian mother, and how supreme the joy at its fulfillment! Then and by that only are the toils, the pains and anxieties of the past recompensed, and the subdued and grateful heart rests a moment in the purest happiness earth can give, ere it passes hopefully, trustingly, yet tremblingly, to the final rest. Who but the Omniscient can read that holiest page in humanity’s record - - the heart of the Christian mother, sanctified by privation, hallowed by suffering, and finding its highest, only, and sufficient reward in the fulfillment of the noblest duty God has appointed to it. None other than herself can comprehend it. The matron who, in the appliances of wealth and ease, has reared her children, as she has not known the trials, neither can she know the rapture of the sorrow-stricken soul winning its way to the throne of God by its trustful humility, and there rendering back its improved talent. Such a return was the son of that widowed mother an energetic, earnest, useful man.

[page 51] In 1661, Mr. Maxson, then twenty-three years old, joined a company which was formed at Newport for the purchase and settlement of a portion of the Narragansett country, called by the Indians Misquamicut, as appears from the records of the company. The articles of agreement were signed on the 22^nd of March, 1661, and Mr. Maxson soon after removed to the new settlement, which thence became the scene of his labors. He was married to Mary Mosher, the daughter or sister of Hugh Mosher, one of the purchasers of Misquamicut, whose name is among those recorded in the Rhode Island Historical Society’s Collection.

We have no other information respecting Mr. Maxson until the year 1692. In the mean time the colony had generally embraced the views of the Seventh-day Baptists, and had connected themselves with the church in Newport, of which William Hiscox was pastor; and John Crandall, who before that time was an elder of the First Baptist Church, became a colleague, residing in Westerly. Meetings were held weekly at Westerly, and church meetings were alternately held there and at Newport. Yearly or "general Meetings" were also established, and were attended in alternation at Westerly and Newport.

It is not known precisely at what time Mr. Maxson became a member of this church. The first entry in the existing book of church records is under date of July 3d, 1692, and the next is of July 30^th, at which John Maxson, Jr., and his wife Judith, were admitted to membership of the church. His daughter Tacy was added on the 24^th of September following. On the 24^th of January, 1694, Joseph was baptized; and on the 23d of July, 1710, Jonathan submitted to the ordinance. He was probably the youngest son of the Elder, being born about 1680, and died in 1732.

Mr. Maxson took an active interest in the church, and was often appointed to act as messenger to delinquent members or distant brethren. He evidently had the advancement of true religion much at heart, and delighted in the service of his Divine Master, while his holy and blameless life, giving him an eminent degree that influence which was calculated to harmonize conflicting views, and allay all unkindly feeling among those around him, he was enabled, according to his desires, to do much towards the building up of Zion. His brethren, recognizing the value of his labors, desired to call him to the office of the church; and at a church meeting held at his house on the 15^th of 9^th month, 1703, "Mr. Maxson was desired by the church to officiate in the dis- [page 52] pensing of the ordinance of breaking bread in Bro. Gibson’s absence, which he did accept."

In 1708 the church was divided, and the members residing in and about Westerly were formed into a separate church, when according to the records of the new church, "taking into consideration the necessity, as also our privilege and duty, by the authority of God’s word, that one be chosen to the place and office of an elder to the congregation in and about Westerly, it is agreed and desired, that our aged brother John Maxson, Sen., be the person." And by another paragraph we are informed that "on the 20^th of the same month our beloved brother John Maxson, Sen., was ordained to the place and office of an elder to the congregation in and about Westerly, by fasting and prayer and laying on of hands."

Mr. Maxson was then at the advanced age of 70 years, an elder indeed, ripe in judgment and good works, tried and found worthy, not a mere book-taught ecclesiastic, but a practical leader of the church militant. He continued, even at this great age, to perform the duties of an elder, and seemed particularly desirous of stirring up the gifts of the church, that the order of the Gospel might not be interrupted, and that efficient officers of the church might be ready to succeed in the place of those who were ready to depart. His anxiety on this subject was deeply impressed upon the minds of the leading members, and a response was made which enabled him, on the 12^th of 10^th month, 1710, to submit the following resolution: -

"Whereas, it hath pleased Almighty God, of his goodness, grace, and mercy, to endow several brethren with the gifts of his Spirit to the edification of the church, therefore, each and every one of the said gifted brethren be requested to exercise their gifts in the church of their privilege and duty, that the church might be partakers of the same."

It was therefore agreed, that "the Elder, with William Davis and John Maxson, Jr., should improve the next Sabbath; the Elder, with Joseph Clarke, Jr., and George Stillman, should improve the Sabbath following; and the Elder, with Joseph Clarke, Sen., and Joseph Crandall, the next Sabbath after them; and so on successively till the church order otherwise; provided always, that if any brother be pressed in his spirit by the Spirit of God, and moved thereby to speak, the aforesaid brethren in their order and succession shall not obstruct or hinder such brother."

But the infirmities of age could could [sic] not be resisted entirely, even by his zealous spirit. The voice that had proclaimed the lessons of wisdom to the children of God, was beginning to falter; and on the [page 53] 26^th of June, 1712, Elder Maxson requested the congregation to make choice of a person from among them to take the place of an elder of the church, alledging [sic] his age and consequent inability to serve the congregation as her formerly had done. The church selected Joseph Clarke, Jr., as a candidate for the sacred office, and appointed a meeting for the 9^th of the next month to determine the choice. At this meeting, Mr. Clarke having consented, the church appointed the 21^st of August for the ordination, when he was ordained an elder and colleague of Eld. Maxson. John Maxson, Jr., was at the same time ordained a deacon. The church at this time consisted of about 130 members.

In 1716, Eld. Maxson proposed to the church to resign his office, on account of his age; but the church not considering the office revokable, or that they had power to release him from it for that reason, refused to accept his resignation. They however proposed to appoint a colleague, and an additional number of deacons, in order to relieve him from as much of the burthen as might be. Eld. Joseph Clarke, his colleague, died June 5^th, 1719, when they proposed John Maxson, Jr., as an elder, to take the charge as senior elder, and nominated William Tanner, Jos. Maxson, and Benj. Burdick, as deacons. These brethren declined the office of deacon, on the ground that none ought to be appointed deacons who had not the gifts for an elder, which they considered themselves not to have. Whereupon Thomas Hiscox was appointed to the office of deacon, which he accepted, and in 1719 was chosen an elder, making at this time three elders, viz. John Maxson, Sen., John Maxson, Jr., and Thomas Hiscox.

Mr. Maxson lost the venerable partner of his life’s journey on the 2^nd of February, 1718, in her 78^th year. For about half a century they had traveled hand in hand, and the fulfillment of all the promises to the righteous had been theirs; and when the old man, surrounded by the children of their joy, followed her to the tomb, for a short separation, we will not believe that the so near approach of death chilled one degree more his blood; but now, in the twilight of life, as the earth darkened around him, heaven grew brighter and more desirable; and as day passes into night, he also sank peacefully to rest on the 17^th of December, 1720, aged 82 years. He was buried in the Clarke burying-ground, near the Pawcatuck river, in view of the old site of the Hopkinton meeting-house, where, upon a blue slate-stone, is the following inscription: -

"Here lieth the body of John Maxson, died Dec.ye 17, 1720, in the 82^nd year of his age. (Maxon, Dan (submitter); John Maxson, second, 166601747; http://www.paintedhills.org/POTTER/JohnMaxson.htm; printed 6/8/2004.)

Biography: __ ___ ____ _______________, _______________, _______________, _______________; John Maxson, the only surviving son of Richard Maxson and his wife Rebecca, was born about 1539 on the island of Aqueneck. He married Mary Mosher who was born in 1641, said to be the daughter of Hugh Mosher and Lydia Maxson. John Maxson was first mentioned in records when he obtained land in Westerly, Rhode Island signing certain articles in regard to Misquamicut (Westerly) Lands on Mar 22, 1661.

 

Another early record of John Maxson was a record of his connection to the First Baptist Church of Newport. This Baptist Church was founded by John Clarke about 144 and was the second one in the New World, The first was founded in Providence, R.I. by Roger Williams in 1639. In April of 1662 John was admitted to the First Baptist Church of Newport, as member #51. John was received andbaptized by Rev. Crandall. Also admitted that same year, were two other men: Phillip Smith admitted in April and William HIscox admitted in June.

 

John's mother Rebecca, stepfather John Harndell and Hugh Mosher were not listed as members of the First Baptist Church of Newport. Perhaps theyw ere not living in ewport. Or possibly, JOhn's stepfather Harndell was a Quaker. He had Quaker connections as is indicated by people mentioned in his will and by the marriage of his daughter Mary to John Stanton in an Quaker ceremony.

 

In Harndell's will, written in 1685, the executor was his daughter Mary Harndell Stanton. Overseers of the will were his friends John Coggeshall of Newport and Robert Hodgkine (Hodgson) of Portsmouth. Witnesses to the will were: Daniel Gould, Joshua Coggeshall and Freegift Coggeshall.

 

A connecting thread is the Coggeshall family. JOhn Harndell had a granddaughter Mary Stanton, who married John Coggeshall, son of Joshua Coggeshall and Joan West. Joshua Coggeshall was a Quaker who suffered for it when he visited Plymouth colony where they did not like Quakers (also called Friends). Joshua was the son of John and Mary Coggeshall.

 

... Who influenced John Maxson to become a member of the Baptist Church? Perhaps it was the Mosher family, into which both he and his sister married. The Moshers were Baptists.

 

Members of the First Baptist Chruch of Newport disagreed with each other over theyears. In 1656 a group left to found the Second Baptist Church of Newport and in 1671, led by William Hiscox and Sammuel Hubbard, another group split off to found the First Seventh Day Baptist Church of Newport. John Maxson was associated with this latter group. He and some of his descendants became ministers in the Seventh Day Baptist Church (the Sabbatarian Church).

 

The first members of the First Seventh Day Baptist Church of Newport, in 1671, were: William Hiscox, who became its first pastor; Samuel Hubbard, his wife Tacy and his daughter Rachel Langworthy (wife of Andrew Langworthy) as well as Steven Mumford, Roger Baster and a female Mumford. Many of the descendants of Samuel Hubbard intermarried with the Maxsons.

 

It was Steven Mumford who had brought the new faith of the Seventh Day Baptists from England to Rhode Island. Listening to his ideas, the wife of Samuel Hubbard and his daughter Rachel believed that they were worshipping on the wrong day of the week. Their menfolk agreed with them. The Seventh Day Baptists worshipped on Saturday (the seventh day) instead of on Sunday (th first day of the week). This led to the split from the Baptist Church and the founding of the First Seventh Day Baptist Church in Newport.

 

At some time, John Maxson left Newport and went to live in Westerly, RI. He is in many rcords there. Seventy-six men from Newport bought the area called Misquamicutt from the Indian sachem, Sosoa, in June 1660, and founded Westerly.RI in 1661. John Maxson, as well as Hugh Mosher, were among these 76 men.

 

Not all the 76 men who bought land in Westerly actually settled there. But John was there by 1668. In that year he was listed as a Freeman. In 1669 there were less than 30 white families there. Denison gives a list of the free inhabitants of the town of Westerly on May 18, 1669. Included were John Maxson, and Daniel Stanton. (Daniel Stanton was John's nephew, son of his half sister or stepsister Mary Harndel who hadmarried John Stanton).

 

In 1708 the Westerly group of Seventh Day Baptists (Hopkinton area) had their own congregation which was separate from the group at Newport ...and John Maxson was their Elder. In that year, there were more members in the Westerly church than in the Newport church. There were 72 members in Westerly and 41 members in Newport.

 

John Maxson and Mary Mosher had at least 6 children. Five of them married descendants of Samuel Hubbard and Tacy Cooper. Of his three sons (John, Joseph and Jonathan) two were Elders in the Seventh Day Baptist Church (John and Joseph).

 

What was life like for John Maxson? from the records he left behind, we can see his involvement in the life of Westerly. He served several times as a Deputy, was overseer of the poor in 1687, was on the Grand Jury 1687-88, and was active in the Seventh Day Baptist Church. He also lived in the mainland town of Westerlyduring a time of Indian troubles called King Philip's War.

 

(Maxson, Early Maxsons, p. 12-15.)

Biography: __ ___ ____ _______________, _______________, _______________, _______________; John (b. 1639; d. 1720, Dec. 17) m. Mary Mosher (b. 1641; d. 1718, Feb. 2, dau. of Hugh Mosher)

 

Of Newport and Westerly, RI

 

1661, Mar. 22. He signed certain articles in regard to Misquamleut (Westerly) lands.

 

1668, Oct. 29. Westerly. Freeman

 

1669, May 18. His name was in a list of inhabitants.

 

1670-86-90-1705. Deputy.

 

1677, Oct. 24. He was excused from serving on jury because his mother-in-law and wife were both sick.

 

1687. Overseer of the Poor. He was chosen this year with another to present a petition to Sir Edmund Andros for a town charter.

 

1687-88. Grand Jury.

 

1690, Sep. 16. He and two others were appointed by the Assembly to proportion a rate for Westerly.

 

1692, Mar. 28. He had a grant of 50 acres near Captain Joseph Davol's.

 

1694, Mar. 11. He sold the above land to Edward Larkin.

 

1702, Mar. 4. He was one of the proprietors in common lands at Newport.

 

1707, Jun. 25. He deeded son Jonathan, for love, &c., 2 acres.

 

1708, Sept. 20. Elder of Seventh Day Baptist Church. "Our beloved brother John Maxson, Sr., was ordained to the offices of an elder to the congretation in and about Westerly."

 

1716 , Jan. 22. Will - proved 1721, Feb. 16. Exs. three sons John, Joseph and Jonathan. To wife, L10, two cows, with keep of same, and the house we now live in to be her abode for life. To son John, L5, an iron kettle, and great bible which was my father's. To son Joseph, husbandry tools, riding mare and L5. To son Jonathan, 20s. To daughter Hannah Maxson, a feather bed. To grandsons John, son of John, John son of Joseph, and John, son of Jonathan, 20s each. To son Joseph's five daughters, viz; Tacy, Judith, Mary, Ruth and Elizabeth Maxson, each 10s. To daughter Mary Lewis, L12. To children of deceased daughter Dorothy Clarke, each 40s., viz: to Freegift, Dorothy, Experience and Joseph.

 

Inventory. Mare, colt, bonds, wearing apparel, bible, books, including "Doolittle on Sacrament," feather beds, warming pan, pewter, &c (unknown author, Genealogical Dictionary of Rhode, p. 342-3.)

Birth: 24 Mar 1638 _______________, Newport, Newport Co., RI (Davis-Johnson, G. Maria; mjohnson80@adelphia.net; "Descendents of Seventh Day Baptist, William Davis (1663-1745) Wales>PA>RI>NJ>WV>NY>WI and other family branches"; 3 June 2004; www.ancestry.com.).

Son: Clark MAXSON; _______________, _______________, _______________, RI (Davis-Johnson, G. Maria; mjohnson80@adelphia.net; "Descendents of Seventh Day Baptist, William Davis (1663-1745) Wales>PA>RI>NJ>WV>NY>WI and other family branches"; 3 June 2004; www.ancestry.com.).

Marriage: __ ___ 1665 Mary MOSHER (b. 1641, d. 2 Feb 1718), daughter of Hugh MOSHER and Rebecca MAXSON; _______________, Westerly, Washington Co., RI.

Son: 12 Oct 1666 Rev. John M. MAXSON Jr.; _______________, Westerly, Washington Co., RI.

Daughter: circa __ ___ 1668 Dorothy MAXSON; _______________, Westerly, Washington Co., RI (Davis-Johnson, G. Maria; mjohnson80@adelphia.net; "Descendents of Seventh Day Baptist, William Davis (1663-1745) Wales>PA>RI>NJ>WV>NY>WI and other family branches"; 3 June 2004; www.ancestry.com.).

Son: __ ___ 1672 Rev. Joseph MAXSON; _______________, Westerly, Washington Co., RI (Davis-Johnson, G. Maria; mjohnson80@adelphia.net; "Descendents of Seventh Day Baptist, William Davis (1663-1745) Wales>PA>RI>NJ>WV>NY>WI and other family branches"; 3 June 2004; www.ancestry.com.).

Daughter: __ ___ 1675 Mary MAXSON; _______________, Westerly, Washington Co., RI (Davis-Johnson, G. Maria; mjohnson80@adelphia.net; "Descendents of Seventh Day Baptist, William Davis (1663-1745) Wales>PA>RI>NJ>WV>NY>WI and other family branches"; 3 June 2004; www.ancestry.com.).

Daughter: __ ___ 1678 Hannah MAXSON; _______________, Westerly, Washington Co., RI (Davis-Johnson, G. Maria; mjohnson80@adelphia.net; "Descendents of Seventh Day Baptist, William Davis (1663-1745) Wales>PA>RI>NJ>WV>NY>WI and other family branches"; 3 June 2004; www.ancestry.com.).

Son: __ ___ 1680 Jonathan MAXSON; _______________, New London, New London Co., CT (Davis-Johnson, G. Maria; mjohnson80@adelphia.net; "Descendents of Seventh Day Baptist, William Davis (1663-1745) Wales>PA>RI>NJ>WV>NY>WI and other family branches"; 3 June 2004; www.ancestry.com.).

Land owned: 22 Feb 1687/88 _______________, Feversham, _______________, RI; Samuell Utly to John Maxson

 

...Samuell Utly of Stoneington... for... ten Pounds Currant Silver money of New England...paid by John Maxson of feversham...Have...Sould...one hundred acres of Land...Lyeing as was formerly Deemed within the Precincts of Stoneington, but now in feversham...Butted...beginning at A White Oake tree Marked on four sides standing on the EAst side of Ashaawage River Joyneing to Land Laid out to George Cooke from thence Runeing Southwardly and Joyneing to Ashuwage River Thirty Rhods to a white Oake tree marked on four sides, from thence Eastwardly thirty Rhods to a white Oake tree marked on four sides from thence Running one hundred and thirty Rods Southward to A white Oake tree marked on four sides standing by a Little Run of water from thence Runing Easterly one hundred Rods to A white Oake Tree marked on fower sides from thence Runing upon a direct Line to the Southeast Corner tree of Land Layd Out to George Cooke which tree is a black Oake tree marked on four sides and soe Joyning to the said Cookes Land to the Tree first mentiones ... two and twentieth day of february ... one Thousand six hundred Eighty seven or Eight.

 

Samuell Utley

 

Wit: John Brown, Thomas Browne

 

... Acknowledged by Samuell Utley thirty one day of December 1688

 

James Pendleton, Justice of the peace (unknown author, Rhode Island Land Evidences, p. 221.)

Death: 17 Dec 1720 _______________, Westerly, Washington Co., RI.

Burial: __ ___ ____

__________________________________________________________________________