Suffolk County Wills & Obits
Suffolk County Wills, 1665-1707
Source: Ancestry.com
unless otherwise noted
submitted by Sherrill Stevens
ELLIS COOK was one of
the early settlers, his name appearing on the list of 1644. In
1663 he made his will, having w. Martha d. of John Cooper of
Southampton and ch 2 John, 3 Ellis, 4 Martha, 5 Elizabeth and 6
Mary. His youngest son 7 Abial or Abiel was born soon after his
death. Ellis lived on the homestead of the late George Herrick.
While retaining this homestead he removed to and resided at Mecox
as early as 1659 and after his death (which occurred as I suppose
about 1663), in 1690 his widow and son Abiel unite in exchanging
the Southampton homestead for one in Mill Neck (as Watermill was
then called) belonging to Thomas Stephens, who had married 5
Elizabeth Oct 20, 1675......
Ellis Cook's Will as shown in Mormon Church Records:
Inventory of the Will of Ellis Cook, 2/26/1678/9
Page 207 - Ellis Cook, Southampton. Leaves to son John when
twenty-one, "if
Pp 81-82 "The Records of the Court of Sessions of Suffolk
County in the Province of New York, 1670-1688 (Thomas W. Cooper,
1993)
The Will of Ellis Cook
Ellis is buried in Mecox cemetery, Bridge Hampton, Long Island,
NY
His headstone reads:
"Here lyeth the body of Ellis Cook who departed this live
Nov. the 18th Ano. 17"
Page 199.--THOMAS HALSEY, Southampton.
"I Thomas Halsey, being in a right mind and sound
judgment," leaves to wife, "one woollen wheel and one
linnen wheel, my little Iron Pott, and a Yellow Rugg, and one
white Dutch blanket, and 4 bushels of wheate to be paid yearly,
as long as she liveth, and 4 sheep." Leaves to son Thomas,
"my house and home lot, and the beach lot, and the Little
Plain close, and the little close on the south side of Mr.
Raynor's, commonly called Troublesome, and the close at the mill
neck called Peter's close, and the lot I had in the last Division
at Meacocks." Leaves to son Isaac, "my close at the
head of the creek, and 5 acres adjoining, and 5 acres in the
Great Plain in the ten acre lots, and 3 acres at the town pond,
and 10 acres in the ox pasture, and the Gin lots, and 4 1/2 acres
in the Little Plain, and 20 acres in the next Division, and he is
to have his choice out of my 300 of Commonage in lieu of
the land at Sagapanack." The remainder of all Divisions is
to be divided equally between my sons Thomas and Daniel, and Hog
neck to be divided also. Isaac is also to have the lot of meadow
at Seponack on the north side, and one acre at Halsey's neck, and
half the meadow on the south beach, the other half to my son
Daniel. Leaves to son Daniel, one lot of meadow at Seponack, and
the eastermost two acres in the Little Plain, and the home lot I
bought of Mr. Smith, my land at Quogue and North side, and Hog
Neck, to be divided equally between my sons. Legacy to daughter
Elizabeth, wife of Richard Howell.
Dated July 28, 1677. Proved March, 1679. Witnesses, Richard
Barrett, John Else. The sons Isaac and Thomas were confirmed as
executors July 8, 1679.
WILL OF JOHN JAGGER
Southampton, Long Island, New York
Dated August 18, 1698 - Proved October 29, 1699
In ye name of God Amen & tenth year of ye reign of our
Sovereign Lord William the third of England Scotland France &
Ireland King Defendr of ye faith &c.
I John Jagger of ye town of S'hampt in ye County of Suffolk &
province of New York Husbandman being sick & weak in body yet
through the goodness of God being in full strength of memory do
hereby make & ordain this to be my last Will & testamt.
viz:
I give & bequeath my soul unto God that gave it and my body
to ye earth after death to be decently buried and after funeral
charges and all my just debts paid I dispose of my worldly estate
as followth -
First - I give & bequeath to my eldest son John Jagger and to
his heirs of his body begotten lawfully forever the one half of
my close of land lying on ye Northside of Samuel Jones his close
to be taken of ye East end thereof and one third part of my land
at ye 7 ponds to be the East part of the same and one acre &
half in ye South division of ye Ox pasture siding by ye path that
runs through ye great plains to ye beach, but if my said son John
should depart this life without any such heirs as aforesd then ye
above demised lands to be equally divided between my son Jeremiah
& his heirs and my son Samuel & his heirs forever and my
will is that my sd two sons Jeremiah & Samuel and their heirs
to take care and provide a commendable maintenance for him my sd
son John Jagger -
2 - I give & bequeath to my sd son Jeremiah Jagger and his
heirs forever my dwelling house & barn with all ye home lot
adjoining whereon sd house & barn stands & ye other half
of my close of land before mentioned on ye North side of Samuel
Johnes at ye West end thereof and ye other two third parts of ye
aforesaid land at ye 7 ponds in ye ten acre lot lying in Capt.
Neck hollow & my two acres of land by ye pond side & one
acre & half in ye ten acre lots lying next to John Jessups
land and one half of my land called ye beach lot and my lot of
upland & meadow at Potuncke and one fifty pound alotmt in
Ogdens Neck & one third part of my orchard land at Long
Springs and a fifty pound commonage throughout ye bounds of sd
town all which land & premises I give unto him my son
Jeremiah Jagger & his heirs forever saving that his Mother
Enjoy part of it as hereafter Expressed and that he give my son
Benjamin Jagger a good title to his house when he takes
possession of mine abovesd. Also I give unto him my sd son
Jeremiah a mare & one cow -
Thirdly - I give & bequeath to my son Samuel Jagger and his
heirs forever ye one half of my close of land lying between
Samuel Coopers land and Isaac Halseys to be taken of ye Northside
of ye same to be ye one moiety of that which is now fenced &
unfenced and ye other half of my land above mentioned known by ye
name of the beach lot and three acres in Halsey's neck & my
three acres of land in ye South division of the Ox pasture which
I had of Thomas Stevens & a single acre lying next Joseph
Peirson in ye ten acre lots and my whole lot of meadow at
Occobogue and a fifty of meadow & upland in Ogdens Neck and a
fifty pound alotmt of commonage throughout ye bounds of sd town -
And one third part of my orchard land at Long Spring and a mare
two oxen & a cow & a three year old heifer and five sheep
all which land & premises I give unto him my son Samuel &
his heirs forever except what is after for his Mother reserved
her life time -
Fourthly - I give & bequeath unto my son Jonathan Jagger all
that my forty acre division of land I had of Samuel Cooper lying
on ye West side of ye long pond and all my lot of land &
meadow in hog neck division and half a fifty pound commonage
throughout ye bounds of sd town & one mare & two oxen
& one cow and a three year old heifer & five sheep all
which land & premises I give unto him my sd son Jonathan
& his heirs forever -
Fifthly - I give & bequeath unto my son Benjamin Jagger and
his heirs forever ye other half of my close of land lying between
Samuel Coopers land & Isaac Halsey & Jeremiah's house
thereon standing and my meadow at Shinacocke & Sebonnucke
& one third part of my land and orchard at Long Springs and a
lot of meadow at ye beach & a fifty pound alotment of meadow
& upland in Ogdens necke & one half of a fifty pound
commonage throughout ye bounds of sd town and one mare & two
oxen one cow and a three year old heifer & five sheep all
which land & premises I give unto him my said son Benjamin
& his heirs forever.
And if either my son Jonathan or Benjamin should depart this life
without heir or heirs then ye survivor to have the half a fifty
pound commonage to him & his forever & further my will is
yt if Either my son Samuel Jonathan or Benjamin shall depart this
life without heir or heirs then ye respective part of land to
them demised as aforesaid of him or them that shall depart this
life as aforesaid shall be equally divided between my surviving
sons and their heirs John Jagger only Excepted and my sons namely
Jeremiah, Samuel & Benjamin my will is that each of them
shall Stump & girdle ye trees of five acres of Johathans land
at ye long pond -
Sixthly - I give & bequeath unto my three daughters namely
Elizabeth, Sarah & Susanna each of them one sheep they having
had their portions already -
Seventhly - I give unto my daughter Lydia two cows & five
sheep -
Eighthly & lastly - I do here by this my last Will &
testamt. make my beloved wife Hannah sole Executrix thereof &
give unto her one third part of the use of all my land above
demised to my several sons and one third of my dwelling house
especially ye lower room next street for her use and all ye rest
of my moveable estate for ye paying of all my debts and ye
comfortable subsistance of herself and family she paying all ye
above mentioned legacies out of my estate that is moveable. And
for ye full confirmation of this my last Will & testamt I
have hereunto set my hand & seal in S'hampt. this 18th day of
Aug 1698.
John Jagger [Seal]
Signed sealed & declared to be his last Will and testamt. in
presence of us Samuel Woodruff, Joshua Halsey, Nathan Howell.
By ye tenor of these presents Know ye that on ye 29 day of Oct.
Anno Dom. 1699 at ye Manor of St. Georges in ye county of Suffolk
before ye Honorble Coll. Wm. Smith Judge of ye Prerogative Court
in ye sd. County was proved & approved the last Will &
testamt. of John Jagger late of S'hampton in ye sd. County
deceased who by his sd. Will did nominate and appoint Hannah his
wife his sole Executor to whom was granted the administration of
the goods & chattels of sd. deceased.
[footnote: John Jagger was one of the early settlers in
Southampton. His home lot, left to son Jeremiah, is on the west
side of main street of Southampton. The "Close on the north
side of Samuel Jones close" is on the east side of the road
to North sea, nearly opposite the road to Seponack. On this the
"old Jagger house" was built in 1707, and was a
well-known landmark till it was burned a few years since. The
ruins still remain. The beach lot was next the beach, on the west
side of Town pond, and is now covered by the beach banks.
"The close lying between Samuel Coopers land and Isaac
Halseys" is on the west side of the road to North sea. The
railroad runs through it.]
(Source: Early Long Island Wills Of Suffolk County, 1691 - 1703;
An Unabridged Copy of the Manuscript Volume Known as "The
Lester Will book"' Being the Record of the Prerogative Court
of the County of Suffolk, New York, published by Francis P.
Harper in 1897.)
WILL OF MARY HALSEY
(Mary Barrett)
Widow of Thomas Halsey, Jr.
Southampton, Long Island, New York
Dated Dec. 18, 1699 - Proved Dec. 20, 1699
In the name of God Amen. I Mary Halsey late relict of Thomas
Halsey of ye town of S'hampton late deceased being very sick
& weak in body but in sound memory Expecting every day to put
off this mortal body do make & ordain this to be my last will
& testamt. in manner & form following -
I give & freely bequeath my soul to God who at first gave it
to me and my body after decent buriel to ye earth from whence it
was taken and for my worldly estate I dispose of it as followth,
(viz) -
1st I give & bequeath unto my grandson Ammy Resco one two
year old heifer & four sheep -
2nd I give & bequeath unto my four grandaughters namely Mary
Hand, Eunice Howell, Elizabeth Moore & Zerviah Howell each of
them twenty shillings in money one silver spoon one pr. of sheets
one pewter plate two napkins one pillow drawer and one sheep -
3rd I give & bequeath unto my daughter Sarah Moore ye best
rug & a white kersey blanket & a new chest -
4th I give & bequeath unto my daughter Hannah Howell a brass
kettle, hetchill, Iron skellit, a green rugge a white fitted
blanket, a pr. of stillyards & an iron bound chest -
5th I give & bequeath unto my daughter Phebe Halsey three
pound in money one silver spoon one pewter plate one sheep one
pr. of sheets one pillow drawer two napkins and nine of ye
fifteen cattle in ye hands of my son Nathaniel Halsey in
proportion for value that is to say nine fifteenths of the sd
fifteen cattle and two beds and two bolsters and two pillows of
one of the beds she hath in possession and the other feather bed
I now lie on and great bedstead a green rug a great iron Kettle
and peile trammell & warming pan and iron mortar & a
frying pan a brass skillet & a great chest and a little chest
& a pair of tongues -
6th I give & bequest unto my daughter Abigail Howell three
pounds in money one silver spoon one pewter plate & one sheep
one pr. of sheets one pillow drawer two napkins a brass pot and a
trammell & peile in Nathaniel's hands the two last
particulars -
7th I give & bequeath unto my son Nathaniel Halsey one
feather bed one iron pot and cupboard & a great table and
half ye grindstone all in his hands already the other half of the
grindstone I give unto my son Josiah Halsey -
8th I give unto my five sons namely Josiah, Isaac, David,
Jeremiah and Nathaniel Halsey five cattle in ye hands of the sd
Nathaniel Halsey to be equally divided between them and my timber
chain to be used amongst them five -
9th my will is yt. all other household stuff belonging to me of
what nature or kind and wheresoever to be found to be divided
between my daughter Phebe Halsey & Abigail Howell equally and
that my wearing apparel linen & woolen & silk to be
equally divided among my five daughters namely Mary Howell, Sarah
Moore, Hannah Howell, Phebe Halsey & Abigail Howell -
10th I do by these presents constitute ordain & appoint my
sons Isaac & David Halsey Executors of this my last Will
& testamt. to receive all my estate & first pay all my
just debts and then the abovesd brequests and legacies and the
rest of my estate to be divided equally between my two Executors
four pound of the sd money above bequeathed is in ye hands of my
son Nathaniel Halsey -
And for ye full confirmation of this my last will & testamt I
have hereunto set my hand & seal in S'hampton aforesd this 18
day of December Anno Dom 1699.
Mary Halsey (her mark) [Seal]
Signed sealed & declared to be her last Will & testamt.
in presence of Christopher Foster, Benjamin Howell, Matthew
Howell.
By the tenor of these presents know ye that on ye 21 day of May
Anno Dom 1700 at ye Manor of St. Georges in ye County of Suffolk
before the Honorble Coll. William Smith Judge of the Prerogative
Court in ye sd County was proved & approved the last will
& testamt. of Mary Halsey late of S'hampton in ye sd. County
deceased on ye 20th day of Dec. Anno Dom 1699 who by her said
Will & testamt. did nominate & appoint her sons Isaac
& David Halsey her Executors to whom was granted the
administration of the goods & chattels of ye sd deceased.
(Source: Early Long Island Wills of Suffolk County, 1691-1703; An
Unabridged Copy of the Manuscript Volume Known as "The
Lester Will Book"; Being The Record Of The Prerogative Court
Of The County Of Suffolk, New York, published by Francis P.
Harper in 1897.)
Letters of administration on estate of DANIEL HALSEY of
Southampton, granted to Joanna, his widow, April 24, 1682.
Page 339.--BENJAMIN FOSTER. In the name of God, Amen. I, Benjamin
Foster, of Southampton, in Suffolk County, being at the present
sick and weak. I leave to my son, Benjamin Foster, a certain
parcel of land lying on the south side of the way of my new
dwelling house, to begin at the east end of the place where my
old dwelling house is, and to run upon a due south line to the
bay. Bounded north by the highway, east by the land of Nathaniel
Halsey. I leave to my son, Jonathan Foster, that other certain
parcel of land lying on the south side of the highway by my now
dwelling house, bounded east by the line afore mentioned. I set
for Benjamin's line, north by the highway, west by the swamp, as
it is now fenced; Also one half of my meadow at Cooper's neck. I
leave to my son, Isaac Foster, 7 acres of land to be laid out to
him adjoining to the highway by the Beech tree. I leave to my
son, David Foster, at Cutchogue, 20 shillings. I leave to my
daughter, Mary Chatfield, 10 shillings. To my daughter Deborah 10
shillings when eighteen, and to my daughter Sarah 8 when
eighteen. Leaves to wife Lydia all rest of estate for life, and
makes her executor.
Dated January 25, 1704/5. Witnesses, John Sayre, Peter White,
Samuel Cooper. Proved before Giles Sylvester, June 28, 1706.
Southampton, March 8, 1677/8. An Apprizal of the estate of late
deceased JOHN COOPER, taken this day out of the account formerly
taken by ye overseers appointed by the Five men chosen to it by
this present Court of Sessions." Land at North Sea,
50. The Last Division at Meacocks, 60. The Close in
Great Plain, 40. Several Parcels of land and meadow in
Shinecock Plains, 40. 10 acres by the ox Pasture gate, 12
acres layed out north of John Jaggers Close, 150 acres at
Southold, 40. House, Home lot, barn, all buildings and
fences, 380. Commonage, 100. Taken by Edward Howell,
John Jessup, Thomas Cooper, Thomas Topping, Obadiah Rogers. Debts
due to Ellis Cook, Henry Pierson.
[NOTE.--Colonel Matthew Howell was one of the most distinguished
men of his day. His massive tombstone, bearing the ancestral coat
of arms, states that he was a "member of the House of
Representation of Her Majesties Province of New York." He
died May 4, 1706, aged 55. His homestead, bought of Samuel
Johnes, is on the west side of the main street of Southampton,
next south of Jaggers Lane, and lately owned by Susan King. The
home lot, bought of Edmund Howell, is the original homestead of
Edward Howell, the Founder of Southampton, and is now owned by
Hon. James H. Pierson. The neck Watshogue, and the Island, are a
part of the Moriches Patent, now East Moriches, Long Island.--W.
S. P.]
Page 155.--Thomas Dongan, Lieutenant-Governor, etc. Know ye that
at a Court of Oyer and Terminer held at Southampton in the County
of Suffolk, on the 12th day of November, 1684, the will of JOHN
BUDD of Southold was proved, and Mr. John Tuthill and Mr. Isaac
Arnold were appointed executors. The same is confirmed February
23, 1684/5.
Page 243.--JOHN YOUNGS. "In the name of God, Amen. This 20
day of February, 1696/7, I, John Youngs, of the Town of Southold,
in the County of Suffolk, Esq., being in perfect health, I give
and commit my soul to Almighty God, and my body to the earth to
be decently interred by my executor, hereinafter mentioned,
according to my estate and Quality." I leave all my houses,
lands, and meadows, all and singular, unto my son, Thomas Youngs,
his heirs and assigns forever. I leave two thirds of all
household goods to my two daughters, Deborah Longworth and Martha
Gardiner. I also give them two silver spoons, and four books a
piece, such as my executor shall appoint them. I leave the other
half of my household goods to my son Thomas. I give my grand son,
Daniel Youngs, 6 shillings. Makes son Thomas executor.
Witnesses, Simon Grover, Jonathan Horton, Giles Silvester. Proved
before Stephen Van Cortlandt by the oath of Giles Silvester and
Jonathan Horton, May 28, 1698, and the executor took the oath of
executor-ship.
Inventory of the estate of Colonel WILLIAM SMITH, of the Manor of
St. George, Suffolk County, Deceased February 18, 1704/5. Taken
by Timothy Brewster, Daniel Brewster, and Benjamin Smith, May 23,
1705, being thereunto sworn before Thomas Helme, one of her
Majestie's Justices of the Peace, in said County. Wearing
apparell of ye said deceased, 109; 11 embroidered belts,
110; Silver plate, 150; 104 silver buttons, 5,
10s.; Silver watch and silver buttons, 10; To Colonel
Smith's picture, 3; Coat of Arms, 2; Silver-headed
cane, 2; Fine fishing rod, 15s.; Velvet saddle and Velvet
side saddle, 10; Turkey Scimeter, 5, 10s.; 3 swords,
8; 20 acres of wheat growing; 20 acres of corn; 12 negroes;
14 oxen, 68; 60 steers, 180; 48 cows, 120; 22
two year olds, 33; 28 yearlings, 28; 2 bulls,
7. Total, 2,589.
Witnesses, Simon Grover, Jonathan Horton, Giles Silvester. Proved
before Stephen Van Cortlandt by the oath of Giles Silvester and
Jonathan Horton, May 28, 1698, and the executor took the oath of
executor-ship.
Page 442.--Inventory of estate of Colonel MATTHEW HOWELL, of
Southampton, Long Island. Taken by Thomas Topping and Josiah
Howell, and sworn to before Joseph Fordham, one of her majesties
Justices of the Peace in the County of Suffolk, June 5, 1706; 3
yoke of oxen, at 4, 10s, 27; 13 oxen, 48, 15s;
27 cows, 67, 10; 13 three year olds, 28, 12; 8 two
year olds, 13, 12; 8 yearlings, 9, 12; 3 horses,
12; 66 sheep, 18, 3; 20 swine, 10; 1 negro man,
2 negro women, 5 negro children. Total amount, 738, 7s.
Page 446.--An Inventory and appraisement made upon the movable
estate of JOHN MALTBIE of Southampton, Long Island, made the 6
day of August, 1706, by Thomas Topping and Samuel S. Cooper.
Sworn before Joseph Fordham, Esq., one of her majesties Justices
of the Peace, in the County of Suffolk. 1 ox, 4; 11 cows,
10; wearing apparel, linen and woollen, 14; gun and
sword, 2; 10 bushels of wheat, 2. Total, 152,
7s.
Page 35.--WILLIAM BARKER. "In the name of God, Amen. I,
William Barker, of Southampton, in the County of Suffolk,
Gentleman, being of sound and perfect health, etc." I leave
to my trusty friend, Mr. Abraham Howell, of Southampton,
50. I leave to my trusty friend, John Wick, serge maker, of
Southampton, all my housing and land I bought of John Jagoe,
during his life. I also leave him 20. I leave to Job Wick,
son of John Wick, all my lands and the house I dwell in in
Southampton, and after the death of his father, John Wick, the
other house. I leave to Sybell, daughter of John Howell,
20. To Mary Howell, widow of John Howell, a ring of 5
value. To Thomas Herrick, 5. To John Burt, son of Mr.
Samuel Burt, of New York, 10. To my cousin, Ann Leggett,
50. To Arthur Davis, apprentice of John Wick, 5 to
buy him a loom. To the Poor of Southampton, 5. To Mr.
Joseph Whiting, minister in Southampton, 5. The rest of my
estate, my farm on Staten Island, and my house in New York I
leave to my cousin, Mary Mentoss, daughter of my uncle, Matthew
Barker, Esq. Dated March 16, 1699/1700. Abraham Howell and John
Wick, executors. Witnesses, John Howell, Thomas Howell, James
Clark. Proved before Colonel William Smith, at the manor of St.
George, Suffolk County, September 14, 1702.
[NOTE.--William Barker was for many years a merchant and Justice
of the Peace in Southampton, L. I. His homestead now belongs to
the heirs of Albert Foster. He seems to have owned a house in New
York, on the east side of Broadway, between Wall street and
Exchange place.--W. S. P.]
Page 254.--NATHANIEL SYLVESTER. In the name of God, Amen. I,
Nathaniel Sylvester, of East Hampton, in the County of Suffolk,
being in perfect health. I leave to my wife, Margaret Sylvester,
daughter of Captain Josiah Hobart, of East Hampton, the income of
all my estate both real and personal, until my eldest son by her,
named Nathaniel Sylvester, shall attain the age of 21. And if he
die under age, then, until my second son, Brinley Sylvester,
shall come of age. I also leave her the income of 1/3 of my
estate after they come of age. And she is to have the charge and
education of all my children by her, until the sons are of age,
and the daughters come of age or are married. I give to my son
Nathaniel all that my part or share of Shelter Island, and the
hereditaments thereto belonging, to him and his heirs male, and
in default of such heirs then to my son Brinley, and if he leave
no male heirs, then to my two daughters, Grizell and Margaret
Sylvester, and to their heirs and assigns. If my wife should
remarry, then she is to have one third of the income, and one
third of the personal estate, and the other two thirds to my
children, by her. I make my trusty friends, Mr. Wm. Nicoll and
Colonel Henry Pierson, executors.
Dated April 3, 1700. Witnesses, James Brading, Matthias Burnett,
John Merry, Alice Carle.
Codicil. Whereas I, Nathaniel Sylvester, of East Hampton in the
Province of New York, and now residing at Newport in Rhode
Island, did formerly make my will, dated April 3, 1700, and did
make Mr. Wm. Nicoll and Colonel Henry Pierson executors, one of
whom is since deceased, I make Mr. Benjamin Newbury and Mr.
Arnold Collins executors in the place of the deceased.
Dated April 24, 1705. Witnesses, Francis Brinley, Caleb Arnold,
William Coddington. Proved before Lord Cornbury, July 4, 1705.
[NOTE.--Colonel Henry Pierson, one of the executors, died
November 15, 1701. His tombstone may be seen in the ancient
burying ground at Sagg, in the town of Southampton.--W. S. P.]
Page 270.--WILLIAM SMITH. In the name of God, Amen. I, William
Smith, of the Manor of St. George in the County of Suffolk, on
Nassau Island. Being, blessed be the Almighty, in reasonable good
health of body, I bequeath my body to the earth to be decently
buried without any manner of Pomp, in such place and in such
manner as my executor shall think fit. I will that my most dear
and intirely beloved wife Martha, shall have the use of all my
estate, both real and personal, during her life, for the
comfortable maintenance of herself and children. I leave to my
eldest son, Henry Smith, all my land lying and being situate on
the north side of this Island, That is to say the Home Lots
called Cheston and Harlow's Home lots, where I now live, as also
the mill lot, and all my land and meadow in the neck, commonly
known by the name of the little neck, of the Town of Brookhaven,
but now within the manor of St. George, with my new and old
house, and all other buildings thereon ; And also the entire
rights of Commonage, and all future divisions and Commonage
appertaining to Cheston and Harlows accommodations ; And also my
Thatch bed, lying between the Old field and the Little neck,
which I bought of Samuel Eburne, clerk ; And also the Thatch bed
which the Town gave me, fronting to the Indian land against
Roscommon Elm ; Also all that part of my South Beach, from the
head of Long Cove to the westernmost gut, To him, my said son
Henry, to him and his heirs male forever, and in default of
issue, then to my next heirs. I also give to my son Henry all
that certain tract of land or Island containing seven acres,
lying near Cranes neck, adjoining to the Fresh pond, which I
bought of Mr. Eburne. I leave to my son, William Henry Smith, my
house on the south side of this Island, within the manor of St.
George, which stands on Sebonack neck, With a full half of all my
land and meadow on the south side of this Island, within my manor
of St. George, and lying eastward of Connecticutt or Sebonack
river, With one half of my South Beach from Cupsogue gut
eastward, and to the head of the Long Cove, westward ; And also
that Home Lot within the town of Brookhaven, which I formerly
bought of John Wood, deceased, and is called John Wood's lot,
containing 10 acres, Bounding westward on Daniel Brewster's home
lot, With one entire right of Commonage, and all future divisions
of undivided lands, due to the said accommodations, To him my
said son William Henry, and his heirs and assigns forever. I
leave to my son, Charles Jeffrey Smith, All that other one half
part of all my lands and meadows on the south side of this
Island, within the Manor of St. George eastward of Connecticutt
or Sebonack river ; Also the Home lot within the Town of
Brookhaven where John Wood lived, and commonly called John Wood's
Home Lot, containing 12 acres, with the house and buildings ;
Also one entire right of Commonage, and all future divisions of
land; Also the other half of my South Beach, from Cupsogue gut
eastward, to the head of Long Cove westward, To him my said son,
Charles Jeffrey Smith, and his heirs and assigns for ever. I
leave to my eldest daughter, Martha Heathcote, one half of what
the leases of my houses in New York can be sold for. I leave to
my grand son, William Heathcote, one home lot within the town of
Brookhaven, commonly known by the name of Williams, his Home Lot,
containing 14 acres, Fronting to the creeke or Harbor, and
adjoining to that which was John Wood's Home Lot, with one right
of Commonage and all future divisions of land as far as the
middle of this Island, To him and his heirs and assigns, when he
shall come of age. I leave to my youngest daughters, Jeane and
Gloriana, to be equally divided between them, all my land and
meadow at Westen Hook, in Company with Colonel Schuyler, Mr.
Abeel and others ; And also all my land and meadow on the west
side of Connecticutt or Sebonack river, lying at the head of
Yaptianack and by a north line until it comes again to the river
as is by my Patent set forth. I also leave to them two 50 acre
lots which lye between the Oldmans and the Wading river, which I
bought of John Wood and Abraham Whittier ; Also two 50 acre lots
more, which were laid out to Cheston and Harlows Home Lots, and
are near the road that goes to the Oldmans farms ; Also 50 acres
of land bought of Joseph Lee, which is at Mount Misery ; And also
the other half of what the leases of my houses in New York may
produce, to be paid to them when of age or marriage, provided
neither of them marry without their mother's consent. As to my
land on the south side of the Country road that goes about the
middle of the Island, and is contained in my last Patent, from
Governor Fletcher, and is adjoining to the bounds of Southold,
Southampton and Brookhaven, I do give the same to my three sons,
Henry, William, and Charles. The will divides slaves (twelve of
which are enumerated, some of them being Indians) among his
children. the personal property is left to his wife, with all
stock, personal property, silver, gold plate, etc., to be
disposed of as she shall see fit. If his son Henry dies without
issue then his share is to go to his next brother. Makes his wife
Martha sole executor.
Dated in New York, April 23, 1704. Witnesses, Matthew Howell,
John Johnstone Gabriel Ludlow. Proved before Lord Cornbury,
September 15, 1705, and his wife Martha is sworn as sole
executrix.
Page 329.--JOHN MALTBIE. In the name of God, Amen, this 24 day of
June, 1706. I, John Maltbie, of Southampton, in the County of
Suffolk, joyner, being sick and weak. I leave to my two daughters
Mary and Sarah, all my housing, buildings, and lands, and
accommodations in Southampton. If they die without issue, then
all my estate is to go to John Fordham, son of Joseph Fordham, of
Southampton. I leave to the said John Fordham, two tracts of land
which my mother gave me in a deed of gift, situate and lying in
the town of Stratford, Connecticut, be the same more or else. I
leave to my wife all movable estate and the use of all lands.
Witnesses, Joseph Taylor, Josiah Laughton, Joseph Fordham. Proved
before Giles Sylvester, Esq., August 10, 1706, and confirmed
August 22, 1706.
[NOTE.--The homestead of John Maltbie, in the village of
Southampton, is the lot on the south side of Jobs lane, now the
homestead of Albert C. Reeves. This homestead, in 1717, was
purchased by Judge Hugh Gelston, who married Mary Maltbie. She
has many descendants.--W. S. P.]
Page 334.--MATTHEW HOWELL. In the name of God, Amen. This 31 day
of October, 1704. I, Matthew Howell, of the Town of Southampton
in the County of Suffolk, Gentleman, being very sick and weak, do
make and ordain this to be my last will and Testament. I leave to
my eldest son, Nathan Howell, my now dwelling house and all the
land adjoining, which I bought of Samuel Johnes, deceased; Also
one piece of land known by the name of Heatherfield, and all my
land at the head of the creek; Also my negro boy named Reuben,
and my best sword and worst gun, and my 1/4 of Quogue neck. I
leave to my son, Israel Howell, my home lot which I bought of my
uncle, Edmund Howell, deceased; Also my close at Coopers neck,
which I bought of said Edmund Howell, and also the other piece of
land lying at the north end of the town, which I bought of Joseph
Sayre, And also my part of a neck of land that is in partnership
with Mr. Richard Smith, Esq., known by the name of Watshogue and
the one third part of one half of an Island, known by the name of
Kitchininchoge; Also the next worst gun and sword, and a negro
boy called Felix. I leave to my son, Ezekiel Howell, all that my
neck of land and meadow known by the name of Moriches, with the
house thereon standing, and the other two third, of one half of
the Island, aforesaid; Also a negro boy Archibald and my best gun
and a serviceable sword. I leave to my two sons, Israel and
Ezekiel, all that land belonging to my farm at Moriches which is
not divided to them equally. I leave to my daughter Eunice
Washburn, a cow and a calf, having formerly given her a principal
share and proportion. I give to my daughter, Jerusha Howell,
75. I make my wife, Mary Howell, executor, and I leave her
all goods and chattels, and she is to have the use of 1/3 of my
lands and the use of one third of my dwelling house including the
best room.
Witnesses, Mannassah Kempton, Nathaniel Howell, John Woolley.
Proved before Giles Sylvester, Esq., June 27, 1706, and confirmed
by Lord Cornbury, October 10, 1706.
[NOTE.--Colonel Matthew Howell was one of the most distinguished
men of his day. His massive tombstone, bearing the ancestral coat
of arms, states that he was a "member of the House of
Representation of Her Majesties Province of New York." He
died May 4, 1706, aged 55. His homestead, bought of Samuel
Johnes, is on the west side of the main street of Southampton,
next south of Jaggers Lane, and lately owned by Susan King. The
home lot, bought of Edmund Howell, is the original homestead of
Edward Howell, the Founder of Southampton, and is now owned by
Hon. James H. Pierson. The neck Watshogue, and the Island, are a
part of the Moriches Patent, now East Moriches, Long Island.--W.
S. P.]
Page 338.--SAMUEL BUTLER. In the name of God, Amen. I, Samuel
Butler, of Southampton, in the County of Suffolk, being in
perfect memory. I leave to my daughters, Martha, Sarah, Amy, and
Mary each 10. I leave to my sons, Nathaniel and James, and
to my daughter Anne, each 10 shillings. I leave to my wife Sarah
all the rest of my estate, movable or immovable, with power to
sell, and I make her executor.
Dated April 25, 1704. Witnesses, John Maltbie, Job Sayre, Samuel
Cooper. Proved before Giles Sylvester, June 28, 1706.
[NOTE.--The homestead of Samuel Butler is on the west side of
Main street, Southampton, L. I., and is the home lot of George
Hallock.--W. S. P.]
Page 358.--JOHN CONKLING. In the name of God, Amen, this 15 day
of January, 1705/6. I, John Conkling, of the Town of Southold, in
the County of Suffolk, being weak in body, I leave to my wife
Sarah 1/3 of all lands and meadows, situate, lying, and being at
Hashamamack in the town of Southold, and 1/2 of all my housing
thereto belonging, during her life, and then to my eldest son
John Conkling and his heirs forever, and I also leave him the
other 2/3 of the lands and meadows, and the other 1/2 of the
housing belonging thereto at Hashamamack. I leave to my wife
Sarah 1/3 of my farm at Aquaback, within the township of
Southold, and lying between the land of Thomas Terry on the west,
and the land of Thomas Hunter on the east; also 1/3 part of the
meadow belonging thereto, during her life, and then to my second
son, Henry Conkling, and his heirs forever. And I also give to my
son, Henry Conkling, the other 2/3 of said farm and meadow. I
leave to my wife one-third of money and movable estate, except
certain negroes. I leave to my third son, Thomas Conkling,
50, when of age. I leave to my daughters Sarah, Rachel,
Mary, and Elizabeth 25 each when of age or married; also
2/3 of household stuff. All the rest of personal estate to sons
John and Henry. I leave to my son, Joseph Conkling, 50. I
make my wife Sarah, and my sons, John and Henry, executors.
Witnesses, Gershom Terry, Sarah Gordon, Benjamin Youngs. Proved
before Giles Sylvester, Esq., October 14, 1706.
Page 371.--SIMON GROVER. In the name of God, Amen. I, Simon
Grover, of the town of Southold, in the County of Suffolk, being
in perfect health. I leave to my wife, Elizabeth Grover, all my
estate of houses and lands during her life. After her decease, I
leave to my daughter, Elizabeth Horton, 40, and a first lot
of Commonage in Southold bounds. I leave to my daughter, Mary
Youngs, all my lands and meadows at and belonging to Peakings
neck. I leave to my daughter, Martha Moore, all my homestead,
houses, and home lot. All the rest of my estate to my wife and
three children.
Dated October 2, 1699. Witnesses, Daniel Topping, Nathaniel
Bayly, Barnabus Horton. Proved, February 8, 1706/7, and Letters
of Administration granted to wife Elizabeth.
Page 375.--Edward, Viscount Cornbury, Captain General, etc.
Whereas HUGH GRAY, of Huntington, in Suffolk County, died
intestate, Letters of administration are granted to his wife,
Sybella, February 11, 1706/7.
Whereas THOMAS BOOTH, of Southold, in Suffolk County, died
intestate, Letters of administration are granted to his son,
Thomas Booth, Jr., February 11, 1706/7.
Page 379.--ZACHEUS GOLDSMITH. In the name of God, Amen. I,
Zacheus Goldsmith, of the town of Southold in Suffolk County, on
the Island of Nassau, yeoman, being very sick and weak. I leave
to my wife, Mary Goldsmith, one half of all my lands and meadows
and housing and orchards, so long as she shall remain my widow,
and no longer, and one half of my present estate. "If my
wife should happen to be with child, the said child is to have
1/2 of all the property," but if not then my brother,
Richard Goldsmith, shall have the same, and he is to pay to his
brother, Thomas Goldsmith, 15, and also he is to release
all the 40 I am to pay him by my father's will. The
personal property which would go to said child is left to my
brother, John Goldsmith, and my sister, Mary Goldsmith. I make my
wife Mary executor.
Dated January 17, 1706. Witnesses, Thomas Mapes, Joshua Wells,
William Benjamin. Proved before Giles Sylvester, June 27, 1706/7.
Page 480.--DANIEL SAYRE. In the name of God, Amen, the 21 day of
August, 1707. I, Daniel Sayre, of Southampton, in Suffolk County,
husbandman, being aged and crazed in body, but of perfect memory.
I give to my son, Joseph Sayre, and to my daughter Hannah, wife
of Jeremiah Topping and to the children of my son Samuel,
deceased, and to my son David, my two negro slaves, called Jerry
and Moll, and they are to be sold by my son in law, Jeremiah
Topping, and my son Daniel, and the money distributed. I leave to
my son Ephraim, 5 shillings in addition to what he hath already
received. I leave to my son Nathan, my dwelling house, barn and
buildings, and all the rest of my lands, meadows, and Commonage,
and I make him sole executor.
Dated May 5, 1685. Leaves his commonage, at home and on Montauk
to his sons. Witnesses, John Wickware, Arthur Cross. Proved at
Court of Sessions, at Southold October 20, 1685, by one of the
witnesses, the said John Wickware being at present out of the
Government. Entered in Suffolk Records.
John Howell, Clerk
Page 443.--Inventory of estate of BENJAMIN FOSTER, of
Southampton, Long Island. Taken February 3, 1704/5, by Nathaniel
Howell and Christopher Foster; 1 horse, 3; 1 mare and
yearling colt, 3, 10s; 2 oxen, 8; 5 cows, 10;
20 sheep, 5. Total, 115, 19s.
Page 444.--Inventory of estate of JAMES PETTY, late of Southold.
Taken by Benjamin Moore and Jasper Griffing, September 3, 1706.
Total amount, 64. Page 445.--Inventory of estate of JOHN
SMITH, Sr., of Hempstead, on Long Island, by Hannah Treadwell,
widow, and John Treadwell as executors of John Smith, Sr.;
appraised by John Suris and Thomas Gildersleve, September 14,
1706. Exhibited as a true inventory by Hannah Treadwell, October
3, 1706.
This page was last updated October 6, 2000.