KiRKTON OR KiRTON MANOR.

There appear to be two manors in Kirton, for one now belongs to
Capt. E. G. Pretyman, of Orwell Park, D.L., by inheritance from Col.
Tomhne, who acquired from the Duke of Hamilton, who held in 1855, and
the other now held by Francis Taylor, having been acquired from the heirs
of the Rev. J. Cartwright, who held the same prior to 1855.

One of the manors was formed out of the holdings of Roger Bigot. It
is not clear to whom in very early days either of these manors belonged, but
one was for some generations the lordship of the Stratton family.

In the time of Edw. III. it was held by Walter de Stratton, and we meet
in 1376 with a fine levied by this Walter against Margaret, daughter of
Ralph de Shymplygford.^ Somewhat later the manor was held by George
Stratton, son and heir of Augustus Stratton. Edward Stratton died
seised of the manor in 1477,* and a fine was levied of the manor in 1567
by Thomas Stratton, son of John Stratton.^ There is, however, amongst
the State Papers in 1597 a grant of the manor in perpetuity to Robert
Barker, of Ipswich.^

In 1702 we find amongst the Treasury Papers a petition of the tenants
and suitors of parcel of the Duchy of Cornwall for the continuance of Edmund
Layton, as under-steward of the manor.''

The other manor seems to have been held by the Sampson family, and
Davy makes Thomas Sampson, of Playford, who died in 1483, lord, from
whom he makes the manor descend in the same course as the Manor of
Playford, in Carlford Hundred, to Sir Henry Felton, Bart. It is not easy to
distinguish between entries relating to this manor and the Manor of Kirkton,
in Shotley.

One of the manors in 1804 belonged to Sir William Rowley, Bart., and
the following year to the Rev. John Cartwright.

There is amongst the State Papers in 1530 a grant in fee of Kirton
Manor to Thomas, Duke of Norfolk, at that time said to have been in the
King's hand by reason of the attainder of Cardinal Wolsey.^

' Dom. ii. 340, 3426.

"^ Dom. ii. 4236.

3 Feet of Fines, 50 Edw. III. 17.

n.P.M., 17 Edw. IV. 34-

5 Fine, 9 Eliz. 30.

6S.P. 1597.427-

^T.P. 1702, 85; 1703, 150, 151-

8S.P., 22 Hen. VIII. 220 (11)

(The author's appologies for the fact that the following is still the raw scan of the original book posted on the Internet with obviously misscanned characters in some places and dissembled table columns that have yet to be corrected or reassembled to be properly understood.)

See other formats Full text of "A book of Strattons; being a collection of Stratton records from England and Scotland, and a genealogical history of the early colonial Strattons in America, with five generations of their descendants;"

CoPyRIGHT DEPOSm

/ 3 1

A BOOK OF STRATTONS

VOLUME I

A BOOK OF STRATTONS

BEING A COLLECTION OF STRATTON RECORDS FROM

ENGLAND AND SCOTLAND, AND A GENEALOGICAL

HISTORY OF THE EARLY COLONIAL STRATTONS IN AMERICA, WITH FIVE GENERATIONS OF THEIR DESCENDANTS

COMPILED BY

HARRIET RUSSELL STRATTON

CHATTANOOGA, TENNESSEE

Folumr £

THE GRAFTON PRESS

GENEALOGICAL PUBLISHERS
NEW YORK MCMVIII

&

^ r&

^s

tr

LIBRARY of CONGRESS
^wn Coff*l Received

AUG 1 1908

BLASS M '/We N».

2/3 2^

Copyright, 1908
By Harriet Russell Stratton

H>eotcateo

to

Zbc Strattons

CONTENTS

PAGE

Preface xi

Explanations xv

PART I.— STRATTONS IN THE OLD WORLD 1

Origin of the Name 3

Evolution in Spelling . 4

Places Called Stratton . . . . . 7

Stratton Arms 11

Sources of Genealogical Material in England ... 15

Lists of Stratton Wills in England 16

Abstracts of Wills 24

Hundred Rolls .... 29

Calendar of Patent Rolls . . . 29

Close Rolls .... 30

Inquisition Post mortem Records . 33

Court of Requests Records ... 34

Proceedings in Chancery . 35

Early Strattons in Great Britain ... 37

Scotland — The Lauriston Line . . 38

England— The Shotley Line . . 43

The Shrivenham Line 61

PART II.— STRATTONS IN AMERICA . . 67

Colonial Strattons 69

First Strattons in America . . 75

Joseph * of James City, Virginia 75

John 1 of Salem, Massachusetts .... 77

Early Strattons of Boston 85

Bartholomew * and his Descendants 85

Caleb 1 and Descendants to 5th Generation 92

Early Strattons of Easthampton, Long Island ... 99

viii Contents

PAGE

Richard J and Descendants to 5th Generation .... 102

John 1 and Descendants to 5th Generation 117

Thomas Stratton ! of Eastern Shore, Virginia, and De-
scendants to 5th Generation 141

Strattons of Watertown, Massachusetts 153

Samuel 1 and Descendants to 5th Generation .... 157

John and Descendants to 5th Generation 182

Strattons of Waltham and Weston 197

Joseph of Waltham and Descendants to 3rd Generation . 197

Jonathan of Weston and Descendants to 3rd Generation 200
Edward Stratton of Bermuda Hundred, Virginia,

and Descendants to 6th Generation 213

Early Connecticut Strattons 225

John of Woodbury and Descendants to 5th Generation . 226

William of Winsor and Descendants to 5th Generation . 230

Early New Jersey Strattons 237

Emanuel of Evesham and Descendants to 5th Generation 241

Mark of Evesham and Descendants to 5th Generation . 248

Strattons of Sussex County 290

New Jersey- Virginia Strattons — Parentage not Traced 296

Strattons in Military Service 301

Colonial Wars 301

Revolutionary War 303

Genealogical Charts 309-325

Indexes 327

ILLUSTRATIONS

Shotley Church Frontispiece

FACING PAGE

King Charles' Letter. 1655 xiv

Old Latin Will xvi

Stratton Hall, Norfolk 6

Church-Stretton 10

St. Michael Church and Stretton Parva 24

Stratton St. Andrew 28

Stratton Park, Hampshire 34

King Charles' Letter, 1681 36

Lauriston Castle 38

Stour River and Dedham Village 44

Harwich — Ancient and Modern 46

Kirkton Manor and Shotley Hall 48

Levington Church 56

Shrivenham Village and Shrivenham Church .... 60

Tenterden Church 64

Old Document at Boston 68

Copp's Hill Gravestones 86

Main Street, Easthampton 98

Homes of Governor Stratton and J. L. Stratton . . 114

Stratton Homestead and Old Wind Mill ..... 138

Stratton Manor, Virginia 142

Old Hungers Church . . 146

Elkington and Old Castle 148

Old Document at Cambridge 152

Will of Samuel Stratton a 158

Tombstones at Watertown 168

Settlement of Estate of John Stratton 2 182

Bermuda Hundred 214

Friends' Burialground and Enoch Stratton House . 240

Old Buttonwood Tree 248

Stone Road and Mark Stratton Estate 276

Owen Stratton House 284

ILLUSTRATIONS IN THE TEXT

Stratton Arms

Suffolk 11

Nottingham 12

Scotland 13

Shotley 13

Arms of Sulyard, With Stratton Quartering 13

Lauriston Castle, From an Old Drawing 14

Stratton Arms, Lauriston 3S

Seal of Alexander Straton 40

"Antler" 84

A Stratton Chest 116

Old Church at Easthampton 140

Old Quaker Meeting-House 299

PREFACE

THIS volume is well characterized by its name, "A Book of
Stkattons." It is not a genealogy of any one line of
Strattons, but contains data concerning many lines, attempts
to account for all Colonial Strattons in America, and includes
much of interest on the early Strattons of England and Scotland.
More than five thousand Strattons, descendants of the Colonial
emigrants, have been satisfactorily placed, and many branches
brought down to the present day.

Genealogical records of these descendants to the fifth genera-
tion from the emigrant, are given in this first volume; the second
volume takes up each line where this volume leaves it.

The work is published for the Strattons, — for those who
are interested, and in the hope of interesting others. Much of
the data presented was collected with no thought of publication,
— from a pure love of such work, and a desire to know more of
our Stratton ancestry. Even now the compiler would gladly defer
publication for a few years, until more of the "missing links"
might be found, but for an urgently expressed desire on the part
of other Strattons to possess a copy of the data already collected,
a wish to put this data, by duplicating it, beyond the possibility
of loss, and a hope that its circulation may create, on the part of
the Strattons of the present generation, a greater interest in family
history, and so induce others to record facts which otherwise
may be irretrievably lost with the passing away of the older ones
among us.

Even as a child the writer was interested in genealogical lore,
and from her grandparents and the older members of her father's
family, early learned what they knew of their ancestry. Later,
a more systematic research was begun, at first with the thought
of collecting data on one line only. Then, — discovering that while
original records contain much concerning the early Strattons,
very little on the name had ever been published, — data on all lines
were collected and classified. It soon became apparent that the

xii Preface

"three brothers" theory (the tradition heard in childhood, and
found in many Stratton families to-day) would by no means
account for all the seventeenth-century Strattons in America.
As the collection grew the interest in it grew also, until many
sources of information have been searched for material. In the
Prerogative Court of Canterbury, Somerset House, London, are
recorded one hundred and forty-two Stratton wills and admin-
istrations from 1412 to 1720. Sixteen of these are marked "be-
yond the seas," or "abroad," showing that many more than
"three brothers" had left England before 1720. A list of these
wills and administrations has been obtained, and several wills
abstracted for this volume. Early Stratton wills are found in
other English courts. Many Stratton records are found among
the original papers in the Public Record Office, London. Others
are found on the church records of various parishes. Some work
has been done among all these sources in England, and enough
unconnected data collected to give some idea of the vast amount
of interesting material obtainable, and to serve as a guide and
encouragement to further study in early Stratton genealogy.

In this country considerable research has been made among
the records of the thirteen original colonies, and in others of the
older states; data obtained from town, county and probate records;
from wills, deeds and invoices; from church records, gravestones
and old family Bibles, — while hundreds of letters have been written
to Strattons in this country and in Great Britain.

And yet the work is far from complete, and several puzzling
problems remain unsolved. It is ardently hoped that the search
may continue, until the ancestral line of every Colonial Stratton
may be established in the Old World and his descendants here as
fully traced as existing records may render possible.

In collecting this material, the compiler has had correspond-
ence with many people, and would here gratefully acknowledge
indebtedness, and gladly return thanks to the many Strattons
who have so cheerfully and intelligently responded with family
records and with words of encouragement and appreciation.

Much help has also been received from town, county and probate
clerks, and pastors and rectors of churches, who have courteously
replied to letters and furnished records, — in not a few cases with-
out a fee, although in every case a fee was offered.

Preface xiii

For carefully taken notes, extended records, or material aid
in research, special thanks are due Dr. Charles Carroll Stratton
of Oregon, Mr. Sidney Vanuxem Stratton, Sr., of Mississippi,
Mr. Francis A. Stratton of New York, Mr. James T. Stratton
(now deceased) of California, and Dr. Charles R. Straton of
Salisbury, England.

From Rev. Anson Titus, Boston, the compiler has received
many helpful suggestions, and invaluable aid on puzzling points
in New England research.

The greater portion of the research among original papers in
England was made by Mr. J. Henry Lea and his agent, Mr.
Hutchinson, in London, who have taken a kind interest in the
work.

Special aid in collecting data on various branches has also
been rendered by Miss Mary A. Stratton of Massachusetts, Rev.
James Stratton of Hants, England, William H. Zelley (son of
Daniel Stratton Zelley) of New Jersey, Hon. Thomas J. Stratton
of Virginia, Mrs. Sarah Stratton Juliand of New York, Guilford D.
Stratton of New Hampshire, Rev. Joseph Stratton of Berkshire,
England, E. Piatt Stratton of Long Island and Senator Stratton
of Colorado.

Among others, not Strattons, who have kindly contributed
notes and suggestions, or copied records not accessible to the
compiler, are Mr. E. L. Smith of Boston, Miss Mary Frances Peirce
of Weston, Kirk Brown of Baltimore, Miss Mary Utley of Hart-
ford and Mrs. C. P. Yeatman of Barranquilla.

Errors will doubtless be found in this volume. Everyone at
all familiar with genealogical work well knows the many sources
from which errors will creep in, in spite of the most painstaking
efforts to avoid them.

Anyone finding mistakes, or having additional data to con-
tribute, will confer a favor by communicating the same to the
compiler.

Cactus Cottage,
Grand View, Tenn.
May 18, 1908.

Y€ad on oj iiit wu/ri)<LHcH.7urHr ^r&u-oLU^J- ik jjt fatfJ)nru#ii<riy
CoaJ.tfi turf ha#M& pr'Tb ft jTrcpa^- or £L^ a*y Hlwj m order
t& ri&fre&>C*Q ffw™ **<£ /~6& its* °f OwtqcthL vuJtkcft ft**)
{?fa. ntfieti-cfib 1~iw (/& wnd&r rrttluruA' **** iiMiWtmj^ ^ytie^i
aj arc yteiL aJfacArtkfo Aur $n/ei x e&+ W h&Mrvd <rf fjfeu-

jcntt, d-puta/l Affalo^/ to t-6. c&rc ofJC"<JaAw+%nni»Le^
tuxJ cU <£&44re u*u ft> h. <Ufu4**uf 4o liar- fcr -ffia •^eHer-yna^ut^jima^U-

'Hut Qwr iUfm & ft£cLfru*t y*K >Vc r6xdC -ko+ onb ttaupfi trf- : ftuX,y>
todtMHwo tljar'sy Stajo7i<zJdisj&rvice. £u- ffa fa #£& csytftfor
fy "WHWiCksH for rt£4» a*J fir wJloJ-U**. /cuk* jrTrrtvrJy OaUjI a*d
S^ffad. fir $} ndt* (LtlsjUfc J*wf i/- *»A> Ou*- pc**r asuCs*
fti> fc<C y*u, hcvrfi&f hturoHK& . Ltv&i, (ri- far frwrf Af firCe&uO
f^>30 **£- ^Jtpfo»U<" ifff > flu /unAe^H yjeajre. tf-fwr

Jo Our tru^rfv #*d 7h14cIo^uL

Facsimile of a Letter from King Charles II
Written in exile at Cologne, to Captain Robert Straton, an officer in the
king's army. "Mrs. Jannet Browne'' was another officer in disguise. (Page
38.)

EXPLANATIONS

BUT few explanations are necessary. The abreviations usual
in such \vorks are used: — b., born, m., married, d., died, etc.
In a few cases prob., sup., abt. are used for probably, supposed,
about, etc. These, and the few other abbreviations used, will be
readily understood.

As in other genealogical works the small figure following a
name, and placed above the line, indicates the number of the
generation from the emigrant ancestor.

The number preceding the name is an individual number, and
denotes the person's place in the line of Strattons to which he
belongs.

The minus sign ( — ) placed before the number in the lists of
children's names shows that this individual is not traced further.
If a son, nothing more is known of him; no attempt has been
made in this volume to trace the descendants of the daughters.

The plus sign ( + ) preceding a number denotes that the num-
ber and name are repeated on a succeeding page (the number
in black faced type), where a more detailed account of the in-
dividual is given.

Repetition has been avoided except where it seemed necessary
for a clearer understanding of a subject, or to bring together the
facts pertaining to the biography of an individual.

A special feature of this volume is the charts, showing at a
glance the descendants, to the fifth generation, of fourteen of the
Colonial Strattons. In every case the individual number in the
text is the same as the number used for that individual on the
chart. Therefore, in referring to any person whose name occurs
on a chart, it will only be necessary to mention the number and
chart, as: 28, Chart H, married Abigail Morton. The descend-
ants of 125, Chart G, have not been located. Further information
is desired concerning 63, Chart D; 199, Chart M, lived in Rich-
mond, Ind.

xvi Explanations

Volume II, in taking up each line where this volume leaves it,
continues these numbers.

For a synopsis of our knowledge of the earlier Strattons in
America, see the chapter on "Colonial Strattons" in this volume.

In some lines, of course, the fifth generation comes much nearer
the present time than in others.

In the case of the descendants of the eldest son of Samuel Strat-
ton of Watertown the fifth generation lacks some years of reach-
ing Revolutionary times, while some of the fifth generation from
Mark Stratton of Evesham served in the Civil War. This is
readily understood when we consider that Samuel x of Watertown
was born in 1592, while Mark 1 of Evesham was born nearly one
hundred years later.

It will be seen that the charts are not quite complete. A few
of the sons in each chart have not been traced beyond the third or
fourth generation.

It is the hope of the writer that some of these may yet be found ,
and that very full data of later generations may be compiled for
a future volume. Will not all Strattons aid in this work by
collecting and contributing further items of interest concerning
their own lines?

IN DEI NOMINE AMEN tercio decimo die Januarij anno dm
MCCCCxij et anno regni Regis Henrici quarti post conquestum
quarto decimo EGO NicTius Stratton Civis London sanus miets &
bone memorie facio ordino & constituo pns tesfm meu' in hunc
modum In pmis lego & comendo atam mea' deo oThipotete beg?
Marie matri sue & onTib sets eius corpuscp meu' sepeliend' in eccia
sancti Alphegi infra Crepulgate Lodon ITM lego & volo cp ex-
pense mee fun'ales fiant per ordinacoem ct disposicoem eorundm
executor' meor' ITM lego summo altari dee eccie sci Alphegi p
decimis & oblacohib? meis oblit' & detenTs vjs. viijd. ITM lego
fabrice corpis sive navis eiusdm eccie xiijs. iiijd. ITM lego magro
clerico eiusdm eccie vjd. ITM lego invencoem <fc sustentacoeni
unius capellani ydonei & honesti continue dia' in dia' p anima mea
& arusibj Robti Charlton ct Matild' Holbeck ac oriii quibj teneor
<fe oim fidelm defunctor' p unu' annu' integrum px post obitum
meum sequen' celebratur ix marc'. ITM lego ad pticipand' divi-
dend' & distribuend' int' paupes indigentes liTtantes & morantes
infra parochiam sancti Alphegi xxs. ITM lego ad dividend' parti-
cipand' & distribuend' incontinent' post obitum meu' paupiljj
Connigilg in Civitate London & suburb' eiusdm manentihg ad
orand' pro aui mea & animar' p'dcis xx marc'. ITM lego moni-
alljj Hethyngham Castell in cfThi Essex ad exorandum pro aTa mea
xxs. ITM lego monialiTg de Cheshunt in coin Midd' ad exorand'

pro aTa mea xxs

ITM lego Agneti uxi mee tluo tenementa cum gardino adiacen'
jacen' in Morestrete in pochia 8ci Egidij hhd & tenend' prefate
Agneti & assign' suis ad t'minu' vite eiusde' Agnetis Et volo qd
pMca iluo ten' post mortem dee Agnet' p exec' meos vendant' et
qd tota pecunia in pijs opilT? plenar' disponat' Residuu' vero ornt
& singlis honor' & catallor' meor' mobil' & imobil' non legator'
do & lego Agn' uxi mee de quibuscu' tf bonis meis & hujus tesfi
mei facio ordino &: constituo meos exec' vitlelt dcam Agnete' uxem
meam dcin Willm Clay & Steplim Toppefeld cive & allucar' Lon-
don cuiquidm Willmo Clay xls. & dco Stephano xiijs. iiijd. p eor'
labore in hac pTe sustinend' lego.

Will of Nicholas Stratton
Oldest Stratton Will in Prerogative Court of Canterbury — Abstract from

Original Latin

PART I
STRATTONS IN THE OLD WORLD

" The dry branches of genealogical trees bear many pleasant and curious
fruits for those who know how to search for them." Henry Ward Beecher.

" Many questions arise in the course of genealogical work, which only History
can answer." John Fiske.

A BOOK OF STRATTONS

ORIGIN OF THE NAME

"Let us begin at the beginning." Pursuivant of Arms.

THE Strattons cannot be traced to a common ancestor in
Great Britain, however far back we may go. The name
is a "place name" and had several, probably many, origins.
Whenever the family home was on an old Roman road this sur-
name was not uncommon. It is derived from two Anglo-Saxon
words, — street, a paved road; and tun, an enclosure, a home, or
a small village. When the Saxons came into Britain they found
there the paved roads of the Romans. Such roads they had
never before seen, and having no name by which to designate
them, began to use the Roman word stratum, which soon became
street, from which comes our word street.

To an enclosure, having a strong wall, within which dwelt a
family, — usually a family of wealth, with other families depend-
ant upon it, forming a small village, — the Saxons gave the name
tun, and from this we get our word town, which in the termina-
tion of names is now usually contracted into ton, as Charles-town,
Charleston; East-town, Easton; Long-town, Langton; Street-
town, Stratton.

Surnames began to come into use about the eleventh century.
Men took these names from the localities in which they lived
as well as from occupations, mental traits, physical features, etc.
The name Stratton was first applied to the place, or enclosure, and
later to the family that dwelt therein. Thus in 1124, in the Laur-
iston line, in Kincardinshire, Scotland, we find Alexander, filius
Roberti, to whom the " lands of Straton " were granted by David I,
of Ledland, — the king who introduced feudalism into Scotland.
Alexander then became Alexander de Straton. Two or three gen-
erations later the "de" was dropped and the family became

4 A Book of Strattons

Stratons of that Ilk, and later of Lauriston, and in 1296 Alexander
Straton swore fealty to Edward I, son of John de Baliol, or " King
John," — the rival of Bruce for the crown of Scotland. In Oxford,
in the thirteenth century, lived Adam de Stratton, who "holdth
the manor of Wydeford," and who had a brother William Strat-
ton. Mention is found of one John de Stratton in County Norfolk
in the time of Edward I; while on the eastern coast of Cornwall
is the "Hundred of Stratton."

Notice that the counties, or shires, of Kincardine, Oxford,
Norfolk, and Cornwall are widely separated. There are other
localities where the name seems to have originated, and in most
of these are found Strattons to this day. A more thorough re-
search would doubtless show the several localities from which
came Strattons at an early date to the American colonies, thus
establishing all the distinct lines here.

evolution in spelling

In the old records the name is variously spelled. Most sur-
names as we find them to-day are evolved from earlier forms.
An antiquarian who has given some study to the subject thinks
that "de Strate" as it appears on a lease (1197) in the British
Museum, is the original of Stratton in one locality. There is
good reason for believing that Richard Stroughton (written also
Stroute), vicar of Dovercourt, 1531, belonged to the Strattons of
Shotley. Several of the early Alexanders of Lauriston spelled the
name Straiton, while others of the same line wrote it Stratoun.
William of Tenterden wrote Stretton in signing his own will in
1647, while on the books of his company it is written Stratton.
At Copps Hill, Boston, the name is spelled two ways on the same
stone, at the grave of Bartholomew Stratton who died 1686. The
town clerks of Watertown, Mass., found five ways for spelling
Samuel Stratton's name, 1647-1672. The early records of Virginia
and New Jersey show almost as great a variety. There was no
recognized standard of orthography in those early days.

The following will of Nicholas Stratton, of County Norfolk,
Eng., dated 19 November, 1527, and copied from the original,
is a good example of the Old English of the sixteenth century.

I leave my bodye to be beryed in the churchyard of All Saints

Origin of the Name 5

in Walsingham. I geve to the heye auter ijs. To the contynuauns
of Jhesus preste there iiijd. To the comon lyght iiijd. To the
Cathedrall Churche of Norwich iiijd. To iche of my godchildren
iiijd. To Johan Wryght my servaunte to her mariage xxs. To
Margaret my wyf my howse in Chirchgate lately Cabages sum-
tyme Pedders for lyf; and aftr hir deces I wyll the same to be
soulde and the money holy disposed upon some speciall Ornament
or Iuell for the seyd chirche. The residewe of my goodys I geve
them holy unto my wyf, whom I ordeyne myn executrix.
Witnesses :

Sir John Gelis pshe proste, Jafery Lathe

Thomas Cocke, John Colet, Geo: Scharppe
Proved 13 December 1527 by the executrix.

Archdeaconry of Norwich, 1520-1529.

The following "complaint" of Sir Richard Stroute (or Strat-
ton) to "the Kyng our Sou'ain Lord" (Henry VIII), copied
from the original in the Public Record Office, London, seems at
the first glance unintelligible. By a little careful study, however,
it is easily deciphered and presents a choice example of the spel-
ling of that period:

To the Kyng our Sou'ain Lord. Lamentably complanyg
shewyth vnto your hyghnes your daly Oratour and subiect Wyllm
Goldacre of Harwych in the countye of Essex maryn' That
where as Elyzabeth wyf of yor seyd orator abouth the fest of the
Exaltacon of the holy crossp last past beyng in the towne of
Harwych aforeseyd wher yor seyd oratour dwellyth aboute the
besynes of yor seyd orator one Nycholas Wood servaunt to oone
Sir Rychard Stroute nowe poche p'st of Harwych By the com-
andmet and pcuremet of the seyd Sir Ric' accopynyd wt other
ryotous psons to the nowmbre of thre vnknowne as yet to yor
seyd orator then and there riotously made assaute vpo the wyf
of yor seyd poore liegma (he then beyng in hambourght in Estland
about hys feytts & besynes) and cruelly & ryotously bette woundyd
& left for deed the same Elyzabeth hys wyf So yt she as yet is
in Iepdie of hyr lyf for the same woundis & strokys And further
more gracious sou' and lord the seyd Sir Rychard at the comyg
home of yor seyd Subgiect entedyg to dystroye & vtt'ly to

6 A Book of Strattons

vndoo yor seyd Orator hys wyf & chyldern haith manysshyd
menaced & daillie doith manasshe & thretyn yor seyd Orator
wt vnlawfull & vnfyttyg words and causyth hys seyd s'vaunt to
do the same So that yor seyd Orator ys cotynually in Iepdie of
hys lyf hys wyf & chyldern cotrarie to yor lawes ryght and good
conscience And forasmoche as yor Orator ys but a pore maryn'
and the seyd Sir Rychard ys well benyfycyd besydes the seyd
s'vyce wych he ys in as ys aforeseyd he ys lykely to dystroye hys
wyf & chyldern orels to be dryvg out of the same Towne for fere
of hys lyf wyf & chyldern To the pillous example of other lyke
offenders yf such Ryotys manasses and mayntenaunce shuld
remayn vnponysshed In consyderacyo whereof please yt yor
hyghnes to grante a wryte of subpena to be dyrectyd vnto the
seyd Syr Rychard & Nycholas comandyg theym by the same to
apere before yowr hyghnes and the Lordys of yor most honorable
counsell at Westmr at a c'teyn day vpon a payn to aunswer to
the p'mysses And yowr pore Subgeict shall dayly pray to god
for the p'serwacion of yor gace long to endure.

Star Chamber, Vol. 16, }o. 150.

The exact date of this Complaint is not recorded, but it was
between 1527 and 1532. This, it will be remembered, was in the
days of Luther, and of the Reformation.

"Remove not the ancient landmark, which thy fathers have set."

Proverbs xxii, 28.

THERE are in England to-day, according to Lewis' Topo-
graphical Dictionary, more than forty places named Stratton
(or Stretton), and near the most of them may still be seen
traces of old Roman roads. The following is a partial list of
them:
Stratton St. Andrew, a market town and parish, including the

small sea-port of Bude, in County Cornwall, 17 miles from

Launceston.
Stratton St. Mary, a parish 3£ miles from Dorchester, County

Dorset. A Roman road passes through his parish.
Stratton St. Peter, a parish in the County of Gloucester, 12 miles

from Cirencester. The church is a small ancient structure,

with a steeple rising between the nave and chancel. The

ancient Ermine Street passes through this parish.
Stratton Park, in Hampshire, near Milcheldever, 8-J miles from

Winchester. The Roman road may be seen here today.
Stretton, a chapelry, in the parish of North Wingfield, County

Derby, 4£ miles from Alfreton.
Stretton, St. Nicholas, a parish 8| miles from Oakham, County

Rutland.
Stretton, a chapelry, 3 miles from Penkeridge, County Stafford,

supposed to occupy the site of the Roman Pennicrocium.

The chapel is dedicated to St. John.
Stretton, a township, in the parish of Burton-upon-Trent,

County Stafford.
Stretton-Baskerville, a parish in the County of Warwick. The

church is in ruins.
Stretton Church, a market town and parish, 13 miles from Shrews-
bury. The ancient Watling Street passes through it.

Stretton Magna, a parish in the County of Leicester, 5^ miles

from the City of Leicester. The Roman Via-Devana passes

through it.
Stretton-Grandsome, a parish in the County of Hereford, 1\

miles from Ledbury.
Stretton-on-the-Foss, a parish in the County of Warwick, 3 miles

from Shipston upon the river Stour. The old Roman Fosse-
way passes through it.
Stretton-sugwas, a parish in the County of Hereford, 3| miles

from the city of Hereford.
Stretton-under-Foss, a hamlet in the parish of Monk's Kirby,

County Warwick, 6^ miles from Rubgy. The old Fosse-road

runs to the westward of the place.
Stretton-upon-Dunsmoor, a parish 5^ miles from Dunchurch,

County Warwick.
Stratton, a joint hamlet with Holmes, County Bedford, f of a

mile from Biggleswade.
Stratton Hall Farm, a parish in County Suffolk.
Stretton St. Michael, 1 mile from St. Mary Stratton, Co. Norfolk.

The church is in ruins.
Stratton, an extra-parochial liberty (but now a parish) in the

County of Suffolk, adjoining the parish of Levington, and

containing (in 1832) but one house, the ancient hall. In

Chapel Field, between Levington and Trimley, are the ruins

of a church or chapel, almost concealed by trees and

bushes.
Stratton St. Margaret, 2^ miles from Swindon, County Wilts.
Stratton- Audley, a parish 3 miles from Ricester, County Oxford.

Contains Stratton-Audley Park.
Stratton Long, a parish 10$ miles from Norwich, County

Norfolk.
Stratton, East, a parish 6 miles from New Alresford, County

Southampton.
Stratton-on-the-Foss, a parish 6 miles from Shepton-Mallet,

County Somersett, situated on an ancient Fosse-way.
Stratton-Strawless, 4£ miles from Aylsham, County Norfolk.

Contains Stratton House.
Stratton, Upper, a tything, in the parish of Mitcheldever,

County Southampton, six miles from New Alresford.

Stratton, a township, in the parish Tilston, County Palatine of

Chester, 4^ miles from Malpas.
Stratton, West, a tything, in County Southampton.

It is very evident, from the above, that Stratton is a "place
name," and in many places it must have originated where we
find it to-day. From several of these places families took the
name, giving rise to distinct lines of Strattons. How many of
these lines are represented in America, only farther research can
determine.*

* In King and Queen County, Virginia, Stratton Major Parish was estab-
lished in 1664-5. It was probably named by one of its first ministers, who
may have come from some Stratton town, or parish in England. Nothing is
now known of its ministers previous to 1724. The Parish register contains
these entries :

"1768. On Tuesday evening died the Rev. Wm. Robinson, Lord Bishop of
London, Commissary for the Colony & rector of Stratton Major Parish."

"1771. On Sunday last William Nelson jr. and his new married Lady made
their appearance in Stratton Major Church."

In 1774 Rev. Wm. Dunlap was rector of Stratton Major. He was ordained
in London in 1767 and was a relative of Benjamin Franklin. The last entry in
the register was in 1783. Old Stratton Major Church was sold and the bricks
removed many years ago.

Stratton Island, on the coast of Maine, received its name from John Stratton
of Shotley, Eng., to whom 2000 acres of land, including this island, was
granted in 1631.

The town of Stratton in Maine was probably named after Nehemiah Strat-
ton (a descendant of Samuel Stratton i) who settled in Maine from Massachu-
setts soon after the Revolution. He was one of Washington's Life Guards.

Stratton, and Stratton Mountain (2000 ft.), Windham County, Vt., were
named for Hezekiah Stratton 's family of Northfield, who owned lands in that
vicinity. He and his six sons gave their country valiant service in the
French and Indian War.

Stratton, Neb., received its name from Zaccheus Stratton, a descendant of
Mark Stratton of New Jersey (1713).

Stratton, Va., was named for Francis A. Stratton of Mt. Vernon, N. Y.,
who owned large tracts of coal and timber land in that vicinity.

Stratton ville, Pa., was named for John Stratton, one of its first settlers,
coming from Evesham, N. J., to Pennsylvania about 1820.

Stratton Falls, Delaware County, N. Y., received the name from the Strat-
tons who settled at Roxbury soon after the Revolution, coming from Sims-
bury, Conn.

Views of Church-Stretton
The Village — Hia;h Street — The Church

STRATTON ARMS 11

"Might I but know thee by thy household Badge."

Shakespeare, Henry IV.

AS the name Stratton had several origins, so there are several
coats of arms belonging to different
lines of Strattons. Burke's Encyclopedia of $\

Heraldry gives no less than eight different \^fe^

arms of Stratton (Stretton, Straton, Stratoun), -wll-ib.

while Foster's Feudal Arms gives three not ^J__^?_Zjtil\
found in Burke. How many of these are S|j|ill|-P lBls^|
registered can be determined only by sub- Fy/x^yy//y^-J
mitting the list to the College of Arms in Vy/.v;'/.:-: '/:'•''?''•'§
London.* The arms of the Lauriston, and No'l'vXvX^r
the Shotley Strattons are already determined, ^ij^^

and are correctly given on other pages of this stratton (Suffo lk)
volume.

A few others, from Burke's Armory, are here given for those
Strattons who may be interested in the study of this subject: f

* At the College of Arms, or Herald's College (founded in 1464 by Edward
IV and chartered by Richard III in 1483) are registered all the arms granted
since the College was founded, as well as many older ones. Some of the old
families who were "ancient" when the College was founded refused to register
their arms, and their descendants are even better entitled to bear arms than
many later families who paid fees for grants in the sixteenth and seventeenth
centuries. The official opinion of the College, however, is final on all questions
of Arms.

f The compiler has found these, and other Coats of Arms, in the possession
of Strattons in this country — in several cases handed down through three or
four generations, and preserved as of interest in having been assigned to per-
sons of our names in the past. Which of them may belong to American Strat-
tons by "inherited right" only future investigation will show. "There is no
way of fixing authority for use of Arms but by tracing back the line to an
armigerous ancestor, either on record at the College of Arms, or who used
Arms unquestioned before the time of the Commonwealth." Lea.

Stratton (Suffolk) Or, on chief indented azure, 3 escallops argent.
Crest a hawk belled & jessed ppr. Motto: Surgere tento.

Stretton (Nottingham) Argent, a bend
engrailed sable, cotised gules.

Stretton ( ), Argent, a bend en-
grailed sable. Crest, a demi-eagle
issuant holding in dexter claw a
laural branch ppr.

Stratoun (Scotland), Barry of five, each
per fesse, argent and sable. Crest, a
pelican's head erased vulnerated.

Stretton (Nottingham) _ , _ , , . , . ~ .

Foster s Feudal Arms mentions a Seign-
ior de Stratton, who was knighted by Edward III at the ca-
pitulation of Calais in 1343. Arms: "Or, two bars and in the
cantel an escutcheon gules."

As a general rule the simpler the arms the older they are. The
arms of the Shotley Strattons are crusader's
arms, pure and simple, and if search were
made it would in all probability be found that
an early Stratton achieved distinction in the
crusades. It is well known that the escallops
(see Arms of Stratton, Suffolk) were used by
the pilgrims in the crusades, and were often
added to the arms of the gentle pilgrim after his
return from the Holy Land.

The colors on the arms represented on these

pages are indicated by the markings usually used gt re tton ( )

in engravings and on seals:

Surface Color Heraldic Term

Plain Silver Argent

Dotted Gold Or

Horizontal lines Blue Azure

Vertical lines Red Gules

Crossed lines Black Sable

13

Stratton (Shotley)
arms of the Shotley

The five besants on the Shotley arms also suggest its origin.

Boutell says: "The besant, in heraldry, apparently derived its
name from the Byzan-
tine coins that the cru-
saders, when in the
East, actually fixed
upon their shields."

For those Strattons
who are interested in
heraldry, this embla-
zonment of the Sulyard
arms is given below, as

Stratoun (Scotland) a good example of the
"quartering of arms."

(Visition of Suffolk, 1561.) Notice the

Strattons in the lower right hand corner:

Arms, counting aoross the shield from left to right

1. Sulyard 5. Andrews

2. Fayrford 6. Weyland

3. Barton 7. Burnaville

4. Good 8. Stratton

Note: Sir John Sulyard m. a daughter of
John Andrews and his wife Elizabeth, daughter
and heir of John Stratton of Suffolk. John
Andrews was son and heir to James An-
drews, who m. a daughter of William Wey- Arms of Sulyard
land, whose wife was a daughter of Sir Wil- (Co. Suffolk)
Ham Burnaville of Kent, who m. a daughter of Quartering Stratton
Robert Barton and his wife Margaret, daughter of John Good of
Kent.

Lauriston Castle

From an Ancient Sketch

(Page 38)

" This shall be written for the generations to come." Psalms cii, 18.

FROM the records in the Public Record Office, London, may be
gleaned a great amount of material on the early Strattons.
Many of these are not easy to translate. Some are in Latin, others
in old English. They are usually dated by giving the time from
the succession of the reigning king. The following from the Pipe
Series, Recusant Rolls, 5 Charles I, will give some idea of the
difficulties encountered by the student in deciphering these an-
cient documents:

Alex' Stratton miles Dnus de Lawrenston deb'
xiijs. iiijd. per ann' de firma duar' part' un'
mes' sive tent' et ix acr' terr' arr' prat'
et past' cum ptln in Burton Lennard in com' p'd*
anni vaP xxs. pcelT terr' Xpofer' Netherwood
recus' hend ad fin' tmij xxj an' rectcfo inde
anuatim tresdecim solidi et iiij den'.

Translation

"Alexander Stratton Knight Lord of Lawrenston oweth 13s. 4d.
per annum for the farm of two parts of one messuage or tenement
and 9 acres of arable land meadow and pasture with appurtenances
in Burton Lennard in the county aforesaid the annual value 20s.
parcel of the lands of Christopher Netherwood recusant; To hold
for the term of 21 years paying therefor yearly 13s. 4d." Lea.

* Nearly all the material given in this chapter was obtained in England
for the compiler by the well-known genealogist, J. Henry Lea, and is from
original records.

LISTS OF STRATTON WILLS

The most prolific sources of genealogical information are the
early wills. In the Prerogative Court of Canterbury, Somerset
House, London, are recorded forty-one Stratton wills and adminis-
trations from 1412 to 1720. Sixteen of these are marked "beyond
the seas," or "abroad," showing that these Strattons had left
England before 1720. A list of these wills and administrations
has been obtained and several of them abstracted for this volume.
Early Stratton wills are found in other English courts.

PREROGATIVE COURT OF CANTERBURY, SOMERSET HOUSE, LONDON

1383-1720

Note: Those marked * have been abstracted for this Book
of Strattons.

"Pts," as used below, means "in parts beyond the seas,"
"abroad."

John, Shotley, Suffolk,
Thomas, Bucks,
Walter, Derby,
Alice, Wilts,
William, London,
John, London,
John, Middx., 1640
Elizabeth, London
Robert, Middx.,
Joseph, Pts.,
Edmund, Berks,
John, Bucks,
Thomas, Middx.,
Anthony, Berks,
George, London
John, Surrey,
John (no place),
William, Kent,
John, Wilts,
Samuel, Middx.,
Edward, Wilts,
John, Berks,
Anne, Westminster,
William (no place),
Thomas, Berks,
Nathaniel, Herts,
Bernard, Berks,
Peter, Stepney,
Peter, mariner
Florence, Berks,
Thomas, Essex
Anthony, Hunts,
Richard, at sea,
Thomas, Essex,
Elizabeth, Wilts,
Elizabeth, Bucks,
Thomas, Wilts,
William, Oxford,

May, 1627
June, 1630
1631
1632
1631-33
1631-38
1634-35
1634-35
1640
June, 1641
Jan., 1642
Dec, 1642
Feb., 1645
Feb., 1645
Feb., 1647
Nov., 1647
Nov., 1647
1648
1650
1652
Nov., 1654
Aug., 1653
Feb., 1655
Aug., 1655
Apr., 1656
June, 1656
June, 1656
Nov., 1656
Nov., 1656
Nov., 1656
Jan., 1657
Jan., 1657
July, 1657
Sept., 1657
Feb., 1658
Nov., 1658
July, 1658
Nov., 1658

52 Skynner
58 Scroope
60 St. John
62 Awdley
Admon 27
Admon 106
Admon 99
Admon 107
125 Coventry
Admon 41
Admon 98
Admon 173
Admon 27
Admon 27
Admon 29
Admon 170
(no folio
Fines, lost)
9 Essex
101 Pembroke
159 Bowyer
Admon 593,
Admon 186,
Admon 31
Admon 167
138 Berkley
216 Berkley
252 Berkley
Admon 285
382 Berkeley
398 Berkley
Admon 12
34 Ruthen
Admon 174
366 Ruthen
59 Wotton
636 Wotton
Admon 180
Admon 291

*Streeton, Benjamin, London,
Stratton, Edward, Middx.,
Stratton, Henry, London,
Stretton, Anna, Surrey,
Stratton, William, Devon,
Streton, William, Pts.,
Stratton, Anna (no place),
Stratton, Thomas, Essex,
Stratton, William, Bristol,
Stratton, Thomas, Berks,
Stretton, William (no place),
Stratton, John, Berks,
Stretton, Barth., (no place),
Stratton, Nathaniel, Herts,
Stretton, John (no place),
Stretton, William (no place),
Stratton, Jane, Berks,
Stratton, John, Bucks,
Stratton, Thomas, Line,
Stratton, alias Jannings, Maria,

Middx.,
Stretton, William, London,
Stratton, Hester, Line,
Stretton, John.,

Previous grant
Stretton, John, Pts.,
Stretton, William, London,
Stretton, Robert (no place),
Stratton, James, Pts.,
Stratton, Samuel, London,

Oct., 1659 508 Pell
Oct., 1659 507 Pell
Mar., 1660 Admon
Apr., 1660 66 Nabbs
July, 1660 Admon
Nov., 1660 296 Nabbs
Apr., 1662 55 Laud
Mar., 1665 27 Hyde
Feb., 1665 18 Hyde
May, 1665 53 Hyde


1667 Admon
Apr., 1668 Admon
Oct., 1668 Admon
Jan., 1669 10 Coke
May, 1669 62 Coke
Dec, 1670 180 Penn
May, 1672 Admon
July, 1673 95 Pye
Aug., 1673 Admon
Feb., 1674 24 Bunce
July, 1674 Admon
Mar., 1675 Admon
Feb., 1677 24 Hale
May, 1682 63 Cottle
Oct., 1684 130 Hare
June 1685 Admon
Jan., 1686 Admon
Feb., 1690 31 Dyke
Aug., 1690 Admon
July, 1674

Aug., 1690 Admon
Mar., 1691 59 Vere
Feb., 1693
Admon June, 1693 100 Coker
Oct., 1693 165 Coker

710 254 Smith

711 90 Young
711 193 Young
711 220 Young
712 Admon

Stratton, William, Pts., July, 1714 Admon

?Stmton, Thomas, London, Aug., 1714 166 Aston

Stretton, Catherine, London, Apr., 1715 76 Fagg

Admon with will
Stratton, William, Somer., June, 1717 122 Whitfield
Stratton, James, Pts. & Middx., Dec, 1717 243 Whitfield
Stretton, Jonathan, Coventry, Feb., 1718 44 Tenison
Stratton, alias Streaton, Alex-
ander, Pts., Mar., 1718 Admon
Strutton, Studen alias, William,

Kent, July, 1720 Admon

Straton, Alexander, Middx. & Pts., Oct., 1720 Admon

Stratton, Richard, Middx., Dec, 1720 263 Shaller

ARCHDEACONRY OF WILTS

1557-1720

Stratton, Edarwd, of Hanger, psh. of Bremhill, 19 Feb. 1904.

Will, Invent.
Stratton, William, of Little Hinton, yeoman, 26 Jan. 1613. Will,

Invent.
Stratton, Thomas, of Woodborough, 8 Feb., 1620. Will, Invent.
Stratton, Joah, of Christian Malford, 21 Feb., 1622. Will,

Invent.
Stratton, Thomas, of Huish, 16 April, 1824. Will, Invent.
Stratton, Henry, of Seagrey, gent., 7 Jan., 1625. Invent.
Stratton, Thomas, of (no place), 12 Dec, 1637, Admon Bond.
Stratton, Thomas, of Seagrey, yoeman, 3 Feb., 1670, Invent.,

Bond.
Stratton, Thomas, of Woodborough, 21 April, 1676, Will,

Invent.
Stratton, Thomas, of Allcannings, carpenter, 29 April, 1675, Will,

Invent.
Stratton, John, senior, of Brinckworth, 16 May, 1677, Invent.,

Bond.
Stratton, Rebecca, of Brinckworth, widow, 4 June, 1679, Will,

Invent.
Stratton, Rebecca, of Seagrey, widow, 6 June, 1679, Will,

Invent.

Stratton, William, of Earlescourt, gent., 15 Oct., 1684, Will,

Comm.
Stratton, Edward, of Allcannings, 16 Oct., 1693, Invent, Bond.
Stratton, Anne, of Seagrey, widow, 20 Oct., 1693, Invent, Bond.
Stratton, John, of Pewsey, yoeman, 4 May, 1699, Will, Invent.
Stratton, Richard, of Woodborough, husbandman, 15 April, 1700,

Will, Invent.
Stratton, Robert, of Nether Seagrey, Gent., 27 May, 1701.
Stratton, Thomas of (no place), 6 May, 1709, Bond.
Stratton, Margery, of Pewsey, widow, 12 Nov., 1714, Will, Bond,

Renun.
Stratton, Robert, of Allcannings, laborer, 21 May, 1718, Invent.,

Bond.

CONSISTORY OF SARUM

1526-1720

Stratton, Friswide, of Hasland, widow, 19 May, 1619, Will, Invent.,

Comm.
Stratton, Alexander, of Easterton, 31 March, 1638, Invent., Bond.
Stratton, Frizwith, of Seene, widow, 30 July, 1660, Invent., Bond,

Comm.
Stratton, William, of Woodborough, 19 Sept., 1662, Will, Invent.
Stratton, Thomas, of Pewsey, carpenter, 12 Sept., 1664, Invent.,

Bond.
Stratton, John, of Hilmarten, 8 August, 1689, Will, Invent.
Stratton, John, of Brinckworth, 15 June, 1720, Admon, Bond.

ARCHDEACONRY OF SARUM

1528-1720

Stratton, Mary, of East Knoyle, spinster, 16 April, 1624, Will,

Invent.
Stratton, Robert, of Balkington, 8 Jan., 1638, Will, Invent.
Stratton, Edward, of Melksham, 8 Oct., 1671, Will.
Stratton, John, of Bradford, fuller, 23 May, 1682, Will, Invent,

Comm.
Stratton, Edward, of Melksham, yeoman, 25 Sept., 1682, Will,

Invent.

Stratton, Edward, of Bradford, fuller, 24 April, 1705, Will, Comm.
Stratton, Christopher, of Bradford, 7 July, 1712, Invent, Bond.

DEAN OF SARUM

1660-1720

Stratton, David de Calne, 1563 fo. 30, Bk. 1

Stratton, Thome de Beydon, 1572 " 38, Bk. 3

Stratton, Thome de Beydon, 1634 " 128, Bk. 12

Stratton, John de Twifford, 1634 " 133, Bk. 12

CONSISTORY COURT OF ELY

1449-1720

Stratton, Edward, Doddington,
Stratton, Thomas, Trumpington,
Stratton, William, Chesterton,
Stratton, Thomas, Wimblington,
Stratton, William, Doddington,
Stratton, Robert, "

Stratton, Robert, March,
Stratton, James, "
Stratton, Stephen, Doddington,

ARCHDEACONRY OF NORTHAMPTON

1541-1646
Stratton, Christopher, Slipton, 1597 fo. 76

CONSISTORY OF NORTHAMPTON

1608-1720
Stratton, William, fo. 283

CONSISTORY OF HUNTINGTON

1615-1720

1690-98 fo. 142

(< n <

' 356

1615-17

' 217

1620-28

' 450

1628-36

' 176

1668-81

' 11

1681-90

1

11 n t

' 48

1690-1702

1 290

Stratton, Anthony, Winwich, 1696

CONSISTORY COURT OF NORWICH

1416-1700

Stratton, John, Kirckton,
Streton, John, Bramford,

1561-62
1633

fo. 14
" ABS

ARCHDEACONRY OF NORWICH

1469-1700

?Stratton, Nicholas, Walsingham, 1527

Stratton, Thomas, Corpustye, 1691

fo. 393
" 118

ARCHDEACONRY OF NORFOLK

Straton, Ursula, Banham 1557

fo. 396

1320-1700

Stratton,

William, Puddington,

1563 fo. 166

Stratton,

Thomas, St. Trives,

1569

2

Stratton,

Thomas, Whaplode,

1606

' 490

Straiton,

George, Kirton,

1611 '

' 76

Stretton,

Margaret, Market Deeping,

1615

' 388

Stratton,

Richard, Chichley,

1622

' 196

Stratton,

Anthony, W. Torrington,

1672

' 499

Stratton,

Francis, Stamford,

1690

' 68

ARCHDEACONRY OF

STOW

1530-1700

Stretton, Fosbrook, Bottesford,

1672

fo. 277

If an apology is needed for giving so much space to this long
list of wills, and the following pages of extracts from the old
records, it must be found in the hope of the compiler that they
may serve to interest others in a further research. Certainly, it
is more than likely that among the wills and administrations
from 1628 to 1720 may be found references to Strattons in Amer-

ica which would result in establishing ancestral lines and dis-
covering items of interest and historical value on the family
name.

STRATTON WILLS

ABSTRACTS

Eighteen of these wills have already been copied, or abstracted,
from the originals for this volume. Those of the Shotley and
Shrivenham Strattons are given in full under those lines. Ab-
tracts of others are given below:

WILL of JOHN STRATTON, of Seagrey, Wilts, gent., dated
Oct. 11, 1614.

I bequeath my Manor of Thickewood in the parish of Cullerno
co. Wilts to my son Henry Stratton for life with remainder to
John Stratton son of said Henry and his heirs; provided always
that my son Edward Stratton do hold and enjoy the said Manor
for 10 years next following my decease to enable him to pay my
debts.

To my grandchild Ann Stratton daughter of my son Edward
and her heirs all the lands and tenements in Yatton Keynell and
Easton Percye co. Wilts which I purchased of Josias Taylor f
Yatton Keynell gent.

To my son Edward Stratton four of my best brass vessels.

My hous at Seagrey and my house at Brinckworth co. Wilts.

My house at Haseland, parish of Bremble, Co. Wilts.

Poor of the parishes of Chippenham Calve and Malmsbery.

Residuary legatee and executor, my son Edward.

Overseers, my friends Thomas Sumers of Littleton in the parish
of Stepleashton co. Wilts gent, John Woodland of Chippenham
yeoman, Richard Smith of Kennett yeoman, John Gale of Avon
yeoman, and Thomas Walker of Brinckworth gent.
Witnesses :

Charles Baylyffe, John Hibberd

Jasper Wheeler, Henry Blackmore

Richard Pockridge, Robert Childe

Edward Adye, William Brewer
Proved 19 November 1624 by the executor named.

m¥*

^ w ^mfi-^'

;.,,. 't-T-Ifl l b

if i

ssas^essee?*"^

Stretton St. Michael Church

In the Parish of Long Stratton, Norfolk. A Fair was granted here to

Roger de Stratton by King John. (Page 8.)

Stretton Parva
An ancient chapelry in the parish of King's Norton, six miles from

Leicester.

WILL of ROBERT STRATTON of Hanger in the parish of
Bremhill co. Wilts, dated 2 January 1617-18.

To be buried in the churchyard of Bremhill.

To the church and poor of Bremhill 20s.

Mr Thomas Collyer vicar of Bremhill 13s. 4d.

Whereas I have agreed with Lady Lucy Baynton Lady of the
Manor of Bremhill that the names of my son Thomas Stratton and
my daughter Phrizwith Stratton shall be in my copy of the re-
version of my living at Foxham as also that my daughter Eliza-
beth Stratton and my son Thmas Stratton shall be nominated in
the reversion of my living at Spirthall now in consideration thereof
I do give unto my son Thomas Stratton £30.

My daughter Elizabeth £20.

My daughter Phrizwith Stratton £250.

Residuary legatee and executrix, Jean my wife.

Overseers, my brother Thomas Stratton and my brother in law
Thomas Somner.
Witnesses:

Tho: Collyer, Joan Lewse
Proved 31 January 1617-18 by the executrix.

WILL of JOHN STRATTON of Kingston co. Wilts, yeoman
dated 14 March 1649-50.

Poor of Kingston Deverell 40s. Poor of Mayden Bradley 40s.
Church of Kingston aforesaid 10s. Church of Mayden Bradley 10s.

Grace Bridle daughter of Jonathan Bridle deceased a feather-
bed.

Nicholas and Ann Oldyn children of my sister Joan deceased 40s.
apiece.

My kinswoman Susan Allen daughter of my brother Henry
Stratton deceased 40s.

John Oldyn my godson son of my said sister Joan £6.

Whereas I hold by Indenture on the grant of Sir Edward Sey-
mour Knt. 4 acres arable land in the eastfield of Mayden Bradley
and 4 acres arable land in the middlefield there for certain years
yet enduring, determinable upon the death of one Edward Oldyn
and of one William Davis in said Indenture named, now I do give
one half the said land to John Fewe and Catherine Fewe children
of Jeffrie Fewe of Mayden Bradley my kinsman during all my

estate therein; and the other half I give to my godson Nicholas
Davis son of my son in law Nicholas Davis.

Andrew Leversage son of my son in law Andrew Leversage £5.

My daughter in law Grace Hayme £5.

The three children of my daughter in law Elinor Stone wife of
William Stone of Froome Woodlands 40s. apiece.

Residuary legatee and executor, my son in law Richard Cantloe.
Witnesses:

Edward Rickards, Marie Bourne
Proved 8 June 1650 by the executor named.

WILL of ELIZABETH STRATON the elder of Pawsey co.
Wilts, widow dated 14 February 1654-5.

Tomasin Elington my daughter 12d.

Jane Harding my daughter 12d.

Elizabeth Straton my daughter all the rest of my goods, the
same to be made over to John Straton and Edmund Straton my
sons for her maintenance for the term of her natural life.

Overseers, said John and Edmund Straton.
Witnesses :

Josias Cowley, John Sheperd

15 Feb. 1657-8 commission to John and Edmund Straton the
sons, special trustees and residuary legataries, to administer.

WILL of THOMAS STRATON of Manuden (co. Essex) dated
4 October 1502.

To be buried in the churchyard of St. Marie of Manuden.

To the high altar there xijd.

The rest of my goods I leave to my wife (not named), whom I
ordeyne executrix.

Supervisor, John Queler of Manuden.
Witnesses :

John Clement, William Wodcoke

WILL Nuncupative of JOHN STRETON of Bramford co. Suf-
folk blacksmith, dated 18 February 1632-3.

He gave unto Alice his wife 26 pounds owing to him by Isaac
Kettle and Henry Branstreete.

To his son John Streton he gave all the stuff in his shop.

Money he did owe to Mr John Blomefield of Ipswich.
Witnesses :

John Tann, John Wagger, both of Bramford.
Proved 22 May 1633 by Alice Streton.

WILL of THOMAS STREATON of Deadham co. Essex yeoman
dated 29 August 1639.

To my eldest son Palle Streaton all my working tools in my

shop and £20 in the hands of my brother Jonas Streaton.

To my five children, 4 daughters and one son, by my last wife,
£4 each at 21.

My wife household stuff.

The residue of my goods to be sold and the proceeds equally
divided amongst my four daughters and my son Jonas.

My youngest daughter Sarah the hach in the parlour.

Executor, my brother Jonas Stratton.
Witnesses :

Henry Fen, Thomas Makin
Proved 12 December 1639 by the executor named.

WILL Nuncupative of WILLIAM STRATTON of Walton co.
Suffolk gent dated 30 March 1625.

First, concerning this eldest son, he declared that he had assured
to him so much of his estate upon his marriage as he intended
to convey. To William his second son he gave £12 per annum.
To Roger his son £200. To Thomas his youngest son one house
with the land thereto belonging in Walton, in the occupation of
one Cocke, of the value of £22 per year. We willed that Rachell
his wife should have the education of the said Thomas, and the
use of the said house and lands until Michaelmas next.
Witnesses :

William Stiles, Mr. William Edwards, phisitian, John Crane
15 May 1625 commission to Rachell Stratton relict to administer.

WILL of JAMES STRUTTON of Walden co. Essex tanner
dated 25 March 1659.

Marie Strutton and Suran Strutton my brother Jeffrey Strut-
ton's daughters £10 each at 21.

My brother Richard Strutton 10s. and to five of his children
namely Margaret Strutton John Strutton Amy Strutton Joan

Strutton and Ann Strutton £10 to be equally divided amongst
them at their several ages of one and twenty years.

John Turner my brother Jeffrey's prentice a hyde of leather.

My brother Richard Strutton's wife Margaret two white blank-
etts.

John Strutton eldest son of my brother Jeffrey my free land
lying in Wenden.

Residuary legatee and executor, my brother Jeffrey.
Witnesses :

John Strutton, Thomas Archer, Tho: Sell
Proved 8 October 1659 by the executor named.

WILL of THOMAS STRUTTON of Little Wenden co. Essex
tanner dated 5 June 1657.

To my two sons in law and their wives my daughters namely
to Benjamin Martin and Amie his wife and to Thomas Rich-
mond and Ann his wife my customary land in Little Wenden and
Arkesden co. Essex; likewise my freehold pasture called Dux-
streets Pasture in Great Wenden; together with my pasture called
the Moores in Little Wenden until Thomas Strutton my grand-
child attain his age of 8 (sic) years when I do give the same unto
him and his heirs forever.

Martha Strutton my grandchild £50 at marriage or 21.

My cosin Marie Strutton daughter of Richard Strutton my
brother's son £20 at 21.

Residuary legatees and executors, my said sons in law.
Witnesses:

John Strutton, Robert Jagger, Wm Densley
Proved 25 November 1657 by the executors named.
21 January 1656-7 issued letters of administration to Martha
Stratton relict of Thomas Stratton late of Wendon co. Essex
deceased.

WILL of WILLIAM STRUTTON of H. M. Ship Guernsey
dated 20 December 1703.

Sole legatee my wife Margaret of St. James Westminster,
whom executrix.
Witnesses :

Thomas Lane, John Bates, Samuel Draper

m

<X0

OTHER SOURCES

Many mentions of Strattons have already been found in the
Public Record Office — on the Hundred Rolls, Calendar of Patent
Rolls, Close Rolls, Inquisition Post Mortem Records, Court of
Requests, Records and Proceedings in Chancery.

HUNDRED ROLLS. TEMP. EDWARD I

The counties, or shires, of England were early divided into
Hundreds, — supposed to have originally contained one hundred
inhabitants.

The court held for all the people of a Hundred was known as
the Hundred court. The name Stratton appears frequently on
the Hundred Rolls and many items similar to the following may
be found :
Oxon. William de Straton held one virgate of land in Godigdon

of the Prior of Chetwode, rent 13s. 4d.
Oxon. Joun Golaffre held the Manor of Certenden by one

knight's fee of Adam de Stratton, who in turn held it of the

Countess of Albemarle.
Oxon. The heirs of Alexander de Aundevil held the Manor of

Podelicot of Adam de Stratton by one knight's fee, and the

said Adam held the same of the Countess of Albemarle.
Norf. Sir W. Giffard, Sheriff, is found guilty of negligence for

that he did not take William de Dunston who killed John de

Stratton.
Norf. Found that Robert de Norton, Sheriff, took of John de

Stratton five cows for a debt of the Lord King viz : 10s. and

gave him no acquittance.

CALENDAR OF PATENT ROLLS

1581-1689

Lands holden in capite, or chief, could only he alienated by
royal consent. When an alienation was made without this con-
sent first obtained a formal "pardon" was afterwards obtained.
Many of these pardons are found on the Calendar of Patent Rolls.

16 Eliz: Part 5

Regina 27 May con' Anthonio Stratton the office of kepinge
of the gaines of hare partridge and fezaunts ad vitam.

23 Eliz: Part 5

R. 2 Sept' con' Johi Hyton gent lie' alien' iiij mess' in Shrev-
enham in com' Berks Willo Strotton.

32 Eliz: Part 11

R. primo die Junij con' Willo Stratton pardon spial.

34 Eliz: Part 13

R. 2 Decemb' con' Rico Dennys licen' alien' quinqz partes
manerij de Hampton Turvile et al in com' Wiltes Thome
Stratton et al.
9 James I: Part 20, No. 5

R. nono die Aprilis con' Alexo Straton milit' Dno de Laurens-
ton omnia bona et catalla et duas ptes terrar' rone Recusancie
Georgij Stockdale Rici Nicholson Johis Cowpland Thome
Branch et alior'.

10 James I: Part 33

R. viij die May con' Johi Strotton gen' pardon al' quia ac-
quiss' sibi et hered mesuag' et al' in Kingrove et alibi in com'
Glouc' de Arnaldo Lygon mil' et al'.
16 James I: Part 29, No. 94

Rx 16 die Feb' con' Thome Stratton pardon al' mesuag' et
alia in Forneham infra paroch' de Shrevenham in com' Berks
de Rico Constable gen'.

11 Car. I: Part 38, No. 66

Rx primo die Aprilis con' Edro Stratton gen' et al' licen' al'
Geo Flower un' messuagiu' un' gardin' et alia cu' pertin' in
Old Sadbury Chipping Sandbury Doddington Wapley at Cod-
rington in com' Glouc'.
16 Car. I: Part 15, No. 24

R. 17 Junij con' Edro Stratton pardon al' quia acquisivit sibi
de Georgio Flower maner' de Kingrove in porchia de Sodbury
in com' Glouc'.

CLOSE ROLLS

1558-1631
The Close Rolls, too, contain many mentions of the early
Strattons, some of which have been abstracted.

10 Eliz. Part 11: John Stratton r' Xpofero Draper mil.

25 Eliz. Part 6: Inden' fca Simoni Stratton per Johem Carter.
*28 Eliz. Part 24: Johes Stratton r' Thome Penne.
*32 Eliz. Part 8: Inden' fca Thorn' Stretton per Riem Thekeston

et al.
44 Eliz. Part 5: Inden' tripartit' fact' int' Thoman Stretton ex
prima pts Robtu' Crannoll et al' ex seda pte et Johem Reve
ex t'cia pte.

11 James I. Pt. 19: Indentur' fact' Johi Stretton et al' per Edrm

Dalby.
17 James I. Pt. 20: Geo: Stretton Samuel Soame et al' per

Humfrm Streat.
22 James I. Pt. 41 : Edrus Stratton r' Robto Stratton.
*1 Car. I. Pt. 31: Johes Stratton r' Johi Hayward mil'.
3 Car. I. Pt. 19: Willo Stretton per Johem Wylmer.

3 Car. I. Pt. 22: Thome Stratton et al' per Johem Farmer.

4 Car. I. Pt. 1: Robto Stratton et al' per Edrum Barrett.
*6 Car. I. Pt. 37: Anne Stratton per Franciscu' Noone.

6 Car. I. Pt. 11: Roberto Bourne per Thomas Stratton.
This list is not complete. Many more might be found.

ABSTRACTS FROM CLOSE ROLLS

28 Eliz. Part 24.

JOHN STRATTON of Cuddington co. Bucks yeoman recog-
nizes to owe unto Thomas Penne citizen and vintner of
London £160 to be paid at the Feast of St. John Baptist
next after the date of this recognizance. Given at West-
minster 22 March 28 Eliz. (1578)

The condition of this Recognizance is such that if the
above bounden John Stratton do pay to the said Thomas
Penne the sum of £74 on the 28th day of September next
within the now dwelling house of the said Thomas Penne sit-
uate in Thames Street in the parish of St. Martin's in the Vin-
trye of London that then this recognizance shall be voyde.
32 Eliz. Part 8.

INDENTURE made 13 February 32 Eliz. Between Rich-
ard Thekeston of London gent and Henry Best citizen and

* These have been abstracted for this volume.

scrivener of London of the one part and Thomas Stretton
of Stretton co. Derby yeoman of the other part Witnesseth:
That said Thekston and Best for a certain sum of money
to them by the said Stretton paid do by these presents
bargain sell and confirm for themselves and their heirs
unto the said Stretton and his heirs forver all that their
croft and all those their two virgates of land and pasture
with all common and waste land thereto pertaining lying
in Dunesthorpe alias Duringthorpe in the counties of Liecester
and Derby now or late in the tenure of Walter Stretton parcel
of the possessions of the late Monastery of Pollesworth in co-
Warwick and to one Richard Stretton by latters patent dated
2 July 19 Eliz. for the term of 21 years by the yearly rent of
12s. granted And also all and singular the houses buildings
etc to the said croft and premises belonging and in as ample
manner and form as the Queen by her letters patent dated
29 January in the year above written did grant the same unto
the said Thekeston and Best TO have and to hold unto the
said Thomas Stretton and his heirs and assigns to the sole
use and behof of the said Thomas Stretton and his heirs for-
ever as of the Queen's Manor of Estgrenewiche in co. Kent
by fealty in free socage and not in capite or by Knight
service. Recognized 18 February and enrolled 20 February.
1 Car. I. Pt, 31

SUFFOLK JOHN STRATTON * of Shortley co. Suffolk gent
recognizes to owe unto John Hayward of the parish of St.
Bartholomew the Great and West Smithfield London Knt.
D.C.L. £200 to be paid at the Feast of St. Andrew the Apostle
next following the date of this recognizance. Dated at West-
minster 3 November 1625.

The Condition of this Recognizance is such that if the above
bounden John Stratton do pay unto the said Hayward the
sum of £104 at the now dwelling house of the said Hayward
situate in Great St. Bartholomew's near West Smithfield
London on the 5th of May next, that then this recognizance
shall be void.
Vacat' 2 May 3 Charles I., the condition being fulfilled.

* This John Stratton was brother of Joseph Stratton who came to James
City, Virginia, in 1628, and father of John Stratton of Salem, Mass.

6 Car. I. Pt. 37

INDENTURE made the 25th day of June 5 Charles I. be-
tween Francis Noone of Martlesham co. Suffolk gent on the
one part and Anne Stratton late of Ardley co. Essex
on the other part Witnesseth: That said Noone for £340
in hand paid hath bargained and sold unto the said Anne
Stratton all that his Manor of Martlesham Hall lying in Mar-
tlesham Keasgrave Bealings Magna Beallings Parva Bamsholt
Trimbley St. Martin Trimley St. Mary and Foxall co. Suffolk
with all the copyhold and customary lands and tenements
parcel of the said Manor as also his advowson and right of
patronage of the church of Martlesham Provided always
that if the said Noone do pay unto the said Anne Stratton the
full sum of £340 upon the 26th day of March 1638 then this
Indenture shall be void.

inquisition post mortem records

Henry 7, Car. 2:

?Stratton George, Suff., 14 Hen. 7 E. File 610, No. 6 Dupli-
cated in C. Vol. 13, No. 125.

?Stratton John, Suff., 2 Eliz C. Vol. 128, No. 58

Dup. in Wards & Liveries, Vol. 8, No. 177.

?Stratton Thomas, Suff., 39 Eliz C. Vol. 250, No. 74

Stratton William, Berks., 44 Eliz C. Vol. 267, No. 103 Dup.

in W. & L. Vol. 26, No. 180.

Stretton Richard, Leic, 13 James I C. Vol. 517, No. 180

Stratton John, Glouc, 2 Charles I C. Vol. 425, No. 3,

Edward Stratton son and heir, aged 40.

Stratton John, Wits., 12 Charles I C. Vol. 479, No. 90

W. & L. Bdle 89, No. 233.
(Same man)

Stratton John, Glouc, 12 Charles I C. Vol. 480, No. 15

W. & L. Bdle 87, No. 187
(Same man)

Stratton Mary, Wilts., 11 Charles I C. Vol. 479, No. 45

W. & L. Bdle 87, No. 336

* For abstracts of these three see "Shotley Strattons," in this volume.

Stratton Thomas, Berks., 7 Charles I C. Vol. 462, No. 22

W. & L. Bdle 81, No. 101

Stratton William, lunatic, Lond., 6 Charles I

C. Vol. 454, No. 34

This list is not complete.

COURT OF REQUESTS RECORDS

Abstracts Miscel., Book 134. 16 May 2 Charles I. Touching
the cause of the sute of Thomas Garrard Esq. complt against John
Stratton Gent and Elizabeth his wief defts The said John Stratton
maketh othe that Sir John Kiddermaster coming unto Mayden-
head about the first Monday in Lent last, sayd unto this depont
hat if he would not accept of fyve pounds for his debt due from
the said Thomas Garrard, being eleven pounds, and if the said
Stratton would sue, or take any legall course to come by the same,
that then Mr Garrard would exhibit his bill in the Court of Re-
quests, sayinge that this depont should spend as much as his
debt came unto, and it might be lose it when he had soe done, and
did then speake of some other that he had sued in the lyke kynde
in the same Court.

20 May 2 Charles I. Touching the cause at the sute of
Thomas Garard Esq. against John Stratton Gent and Elizabeth
his wief defts: William Bennell of Langley Marrish in the county
of Buck gent, aged xxv yeres or thereabouts, maketh othe that
that upon Thursday last past he did shewe unto the said John
Stratton an order of this Court made between the said parties
dated the xijth of this instant which the said Stratton did take
in his hands and did looke thereupon, confessing to this de-
ponent that he had a copie thereof, And this deponent then de-
manded of the said Stratton for and to the use of the said Court
the some of xxs. for costs, But the seyd Stratton refused to pay
it, this deponent having left a copy of the said order for him
upon the xvth day of this instant at an office in Fetter Lane
where the said Stratton useth to wryte.

Other Strattons are found on the records of the Court of Re-
quests.

- 3

proceedings in chancery — abstracts
STRATTON v. FRANCKLYN, Eliz. S, 25: 40

Bill of Complaint of William Stretton citizen and alderman
of the City of Rochester, co. Kent, dated 2 June 1597:
Sir George Sidenham Knt and Elizabeth his wife were
seised in the right of said Elizabeth of the Manor of Motten-
den co. Kent and lands in Sutton Valance and Warden co-
Kent late part of the possessions of the Monastery of Mot-
tenden and devised the same to one Thomas Mascall gent
who did assign the said Manor and lands unto plaintiff.
But one Thomas Francklyn of the City of Canterbury hath
obtained possession of the Indenture of lease and other deed
relating to the said Manor and hath entered into the said
premises. Sues for the return of the deeds etc.

STRATTON v. HILTON, Jam. I, S. 26: 12

Bill of Complaint of John Stratton of Segrs co. Wilts, gent

dated 2 Nov. 1619:

Edmund Escourte late of Tedbury co. Glouc. deceased
was about June 15 James I. seized of certain messuage
lands in Brinckworthe Braden and Braden Marsh co. Wilts,
which formerly did belong to Thomas Escourte Esq. de-
ceased father of said Edmund and then were in the occu-
pation of Jeffrey Pynell William Baylye John Robyns,
William Osborne and John Willmor. Said Edmund being
so seised did with the consent of Margaret his then wife
and of Richard Hilton of Daglingworth co. Glouc. gent (who
together with the said Margaret did intermeddle with and
manage said estate) for the sum of £750 sell the said mes-
sages unto plaintiff. In or about April 16 James I. Ed-
mund died at Bath, leaving goods valued at £1000 and
making Margaret his wife sole executrix; after whose death
said Margaret married the said Richard Hilton.

STRATTON v. NEWMAN, Car. I, 103: 14

Bill of Complaint of Thomas Stratton dated 26 Nov. 1628:
Plaintiff and one Thomas Newman his father in law had

divers dealings together for loan of money and delivery of
cattle, all which money and cattle, thro' the mediation of
one Mr Leach and one Anthony Hardinge, are paid unto
the said Newman, who promisey to give him, plaintiff, a
receipt for the same, but hath failed so to do.

STRATTON v. BISHOP, Charles I, S. 110: 51

Bill of Complaint of Richard Stratton of Shaw co. Wilts

husbandman dated 9 May 1639:

Michael Tincombe senior of Devises co. Wilts gent being
seised of a messuage called Tynkfield lying in Allcannings
co. Wilts, together with 6 acres of land, of the yearly value
of £4, did long time since demise and grant the same unto
John Stratton plaintiff's father, Alexander Stratton plain-
tiff's elder brother, and plaintiff himself, for their three
lives. John Stratton the father died, and Alexander Strat-
ton, plaintiff's elder brother, also died, about the month of
March, leaving issue Katherine his oly daughter, and heir,
now wife of one George Bisshoppe of Easterton co. Wilts
yeoman, who hath gotten possession of the lease to the
detriment of plaintiff.

To all these sources must be added the Parish Registers of
births, marriages and burials, many of them reaching back to
very early days, and the gravestones in the yards of so many of
the ancient churches.

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Facsimile of Letter from King Charles II to Charles Sstraton of
Lauriston Castle. (Pages 38-42)

EARLY STRATTONS IN GREAT BRITAIN

"Peculiar interest always clusters around the beginnings of things." Lyon.

THREE distinct lines of Strattons have been especially studied
in Great Britain:

Stratons of Lauriston, 1124-1904.

Strattons of Shotley, 1392-1631.

Strattons of Shrivenham, about 1530-1660.

Of the Lauriston Line it is not yet proven that any settled
in America before the Revolution, — although tradition says that
the line was represented here in colonial days. (See Stratons
of Lauriston.)

Of the Shotley Line, while it is known that two settled in
America as early as 1628, proof is yet wanting to show that they
have descendants by the name of Stratton living here to-day.
(See Strattons of Shotley.)

Considerable space is given in the following pages to these two
lines, — because they contain much of general interest, and be-
cause they show what might be done in other lines if a sufficiently
thorough research could be made.

From the Shrivenham Line several emigrants had settled in
America before 1660, and from them many Strattons of the present
generation in the United States have been satisfactorily traced in
lineal descent. (See Strattons of Shrivenham.)

A glance at Chart 1, and at the outline on pages 62 and 63,
will show that others of these lines may have settled in America
and have descendants here to-day. The Stretton Arms on
page 12 is thought to belong to the Shrivenham line. Proof is
lacking.

It is ardently hoped that further research may soon be under-
taken in England to trace the Shrivenham line back to the origin
of this name, and establish the coat of arms to which it is en-
titled, as has been done in the Lauriston and Shotley lines.

A Book of Strattons

Straton (Lauriston)

SCOTLAND— THE LAURISTON LINE

Arms: Argent 4 bars embattled counter embattled sable, over all an es-
cutcheon gules. Crest, an eagle, displayed, on hand in armor, couped
at wrist.

Lauriston Castle,* the home of the Stratons for more than
four hundred years, is in the Parish of St. Cyrus, Kincardineshire,
Scotland. The name, in this instance, origi-
nated from the lands of Straton, near Edin-
burgh, which were granted by David I to
Alexander, films Roberti, in the twelfth cen-
tury. The records begin with this Alexander,
son of Robert, about 1100, and some branches
are traced down to the present generation
(1907).

It was to this line that the Charles Straton
belonged who brought to the king the news of
the surrender of Edinburgh castle. To this line
belonged, also, "our trusty and welbeloved
captaine Robert Straton" to whom King Charles' letter was
written in 1655; and Walter Straton who was murdered at Perth
while defending his sovereign in 1437; | and David Stratton, the
martyr of Edinburgh.^

* The photograph of Lauriston Castle was kindly sent the compiler by the
present owner of the property. The etching of the castle is from an old sketch.

t See Lives of Scottish Poets, Vol. I, p. 16. Also, The Fair Maid of Perth
by Sir Walter Scott, and The Spawife by John Gait.

| David Stratton, the martyr.

"Several others were brought into the Bishop's Court, among them Norman
Gourlay and David Stratton. They had said that there was no purgatory, and
that the passion of Christ was the only expiation for sin, and that the tribula-
tions of this world were the only sufferings that the saints underwent.

"These two although greatly solicited by the Archbishops and others of
the clergy, refused to recant, and were accordingly condemned as obstinate
heretics and sentenced to be burned upon the greenside between Lerth and
Edinburgh, with a view to strike terror into the surrounding country. In the
afternoon of the same day (Aug. 27, 1532, under the reign of Henry VIII),
they were taken to the place of execution, and kneeling down, they prayed
with great fervency for some time. Then Stratton, addressing himself to the
spectators, exhorted them to lay aside their superstitions and idolatrous no-
tions and employ themselves in seeking the true light of the gospel. He wished
to have said more but was prevented by the officers. The sentence was

? &H

/- r

U X

i C

r c

The Lauriston Line
genealogical outline

1. Alexander Alius Roberti=To whom the lands of Straton

were granted by David I of Ledland,
1124-1153.

2. Michael de Straton

3. Alexander de Straton

4. Richard de Straton

5. Sir Alexander Straton
First Baron of Lauris-
ton.

=Living in Kincardineshire in 1276.

=One of the commissioners chosen by
Baliol 1291. Swore fealty to Ed-
ward I, 1291. Mentioned by Pope
John XXII, 1320. In Parliament,
1320.

6. Sir Alexander Straton=High Sheriff of Kincardineshire,

of Lauriston.

1328.

7. John Straton
of Lauriston.

=Mentioned in a conformation by
Robert II.

then put into execution and the Martyrs cheerfully yielded up their
bodies to the flames commending their souls to the mercy of their Heavenly
Father and hoping for immortality through the merits of their blessed Re-
deemer."

From Fox's Book of Martyrs.

A Book of Strattons

8. Sir Alexander Straton=Anne, daughter of Alexander de

Berkelay.

Sat in Parliament, 1371. Killed at
the Battle of Harlaw, 1411.

Seal of Alexander Straton,
affixed to a charter, dated
Sept. 1, 1376, belonging to
Mrs. Barclay-Allardice, of Ury
and Allardice.

9. Sir Alexander Straton=
Baron of Lauriston.

=A daughter of Lord Southerland of
Dunrobin.

One of the 24 Barons sent to Eng-
land in pledge for James I, 1424.

10. Sir Alexander Straton=
de Lauriston.

A daughter of Forbes of Tolquhaun.
A hostage in 1432. Sat in Parlia-
ment, 1463-1470.

His brother Walter, cup-bearer to
James I, was murdered the night
that the king was assassinated at
Perth, 1437.

11. Alexander Straton
of Lauriston and
The Knox.

= Margaret, eldest daughter and co-
heir of Strachan of Dillivard.

12. Alexander Straton
of The Keym and
Lauriston.

=Marian, daughter of Andrew, Lord
Grey, and of his spouse Janet, only
daughter of Lord Keith.
His son David was burned as a
martyr at Edinburgh, August 27,
1532.

The Lauriston Line

41

13.

14.

Alexander Straton
of Lauriston.

= Agnes Ogilvie, of Findlater. She
survived her husband and married
Sir David Lindsay.

Andrew Straton
Brother of the last
Baron of Lauriston,
who was eldest nephew
and co-heir with Pat-
rick, Lord Grey, 1541.

15. George Straton
of Lauriston.

16. Alexander Straton

17. Andrew Straton
of Warburton.

18.

David Straton
of Fatherhall.

^Margaret, daughter of Sir David
Lindsey, who was eighth in descent
from Robert Bruce, King of Scot-
land.

: Eldest daughter of Sir John Forbes
of Pitsligo. Member of Parliament
for Kincardineshire in 1567. Died
in 1580. •

= Agnes, daughter of Arbuthnot of
that Ilk, and granddaughter of
Robert, Lord Kieth. Member of
Parliament, and one of the commis-
sioners for the union of England and
Scotland. In 1605 Parliament award-
ed him a pension of 100 marks from
the Lordship of Scone.

=Marjory Forbes, a daughter of the
Bishop of Aberdeen.

Isabella Strachan.
died 1725.

Born 1636—

19. James Straton
of Drumhenry.

:Mary .

42

A Book of Strattons

20. David Straton
of Mary kirk.

= Ann Cairricross, 1744. Born 1722 —
died 1795.

21. Charles Straton
of St. Cyrus.

= Janet Schwabble, 1794. Born 1758
in Kincardine, and died there in
1846.

22. Charles Straton

=Helen Neddrie, 1841. Born, 1813,
in Marykirk, Kincardineshire. A
lawyer. Settled in America. Died
in New Brunswick, 1899.

Andrew Straton of the eighteenth generation in this line,
had a son Andrew, who, tradition says, is the ancestor of some
American Colonial Strattons. The compiler has found no proof
of it. A more extended research would doubtless bring to
light much interesting material, and might prove that others of
this long line are represented among the Strattons in our country
to-day.

Much of the information concerning this line is from records
kindly given the compiler by Dr. Charles R. Straton, of County
Wilts. Eng. (eldest son of the last-named Charles in the outline
above), and is largely from manuscript in his possession.* Dr.
Straton has a son, Captain Charles Henry Straton, and a grandson
Charles Noy Straton — and so the lineal line has been traced
through twenty-five generations, from Robert, father of Alexan-
der de Straton, born in Scotland before 1100, to little Charles
Noy Straton, born in India, in 1904.

May not equally long and interesting "trees" be in store for
the several lines of American Strattons whose ancestry has not
yet been traced back of Colonial days?

* This outline, given above, shows but one branch, i. e. one son in each
generation. The records of the collateral branches fill many pages of manu-
script. The Strattons whom the compiler has found in this country belonging
to this line have settled here within the last two generations. Most of them
spell the name "Straton." It is quite possible, however, that others came at
an earlier date — and perhaps in Colonial Days.

r

Pedigree of Stratton of Shotley, Suffolk and D<am Essex (Cn^i j / ^~T~

' r ' ssex - ^Compiled from original sources.)

CHART 1

WALTER de STRATTON
Will dated and proved
1392. Buried in Lev-
ington Church.

LY

itrix to her husband.

AUGUSTINE STRATTON, Esq. =

EDMUND STRATTON, of Shotley, Esq.
Will dated 30 Sept. 1474. Died
11 Oct. 1476. Buried in Shotley
Church. Inq. 31 Oct. 1477.

AUGUSTINE STRATTON, elk.
Devisee under father's will of the
Manor of Thurkalton for life, after
death of his mother. Aged 40 in
1477. Died before 1498.

?ee under husband's will of the
>r of Thurkalton for life.

GEORGE STRATTON of Shotley.
Devisee under father's will of the
Manor of Levington. Also of the
Manor of Thurkalton after decease
of his mother and his brother Augus-
tine. Entailed the Manor of Kirk-
ton by deed and the Manor of
Thurkalton by will. Died, Friday
after Pentacost 1498. Inq. P. M 28
Oct. 1498.

JOHN STRATTON

GEORGE STRATTON of Shotley,
gent, born 1490. Inherited the Man-
ors Kirkton and Thurkalton. Will
dated 24 Aug. 1547. Proved P.C.
C.l 13 June 1548. Buried in Shot-
ley Church.

. Predeceased her husband.

ROGER HAWYS

ELIZABETH. Devisee under
brother's will of a tenement in
Shotley.

JOHN STRATTON of Shotley, esq.
Inherited the Manor of Kirkton and
Thurkalton. Died 16 I Sept. 1560.
Inq. P. M. 23rd Sept. 1560. Will
dated 5 Dec. 1559. Proved C. C.
Nor. 16 June 1561.

CICILY, Daughter of Thomas Fel-
ton, esq. and of Cicily, his wife af-
terwards wife of Nick Sampson, Esq.
marr.: settlement dated 24 Aug. 25
Henry VIII. Proved her husband's
will 1561.

ANTHONY, legatee under
father's will. Probably of
age in 1547. Legatee under
brother John's will 1559
"if alive."

ROBERT, le;
under father's
of £20 to be
1550.

MARGARET, legatee under father's
will of £30, to be paid 1552. Bur-
ied at Shotley, 28 Apr. 1574. Leg-
atee under brother John's will 1559.
Then unmarried.

PHILIP, legatee under

father's will of £20, to
be paid 1554. Legatee
under brother John's
will of 1559.

FRAS HARMAN

KATHERINB,
legatee under
lather's will.

THOMAS STRATTON of Shotley. Suffolk and Ded-
ham, Essex, gent. Born 1546. Inherited Manors of
Kirkton and Thurkalton. Will dated 15 April 1596.
Proved P. C. C 4 Nov. 1596. Died at Dedham 29
May 1596. Buried at Shotley 1 June 1596. Inq. P.
M. 19 Jan. 1596-7. Left his lands in trust to his cousin
John Morgan, of Ipswich, gent., during his heirs mi-
nority.

DOROTHY, marr. before 18 Aug.
15 Eliz. 1 1573 co. exectx. of hus-
band's will. Afterwards marr. : . .
Linton. Admon. Ipswich to son
John -I Mar. 1616-17.

MARY, legatee under fa-
ther's will.

ELIZABETH legatee un-
der brother's will 1596.

JOHN STRATTON, of Shotley, Suffolk and Ardleigh,
Essex, gent. Aged 15 years and 99 days, 19 Jan. 1596-7.
Inherited Manors of Kirkton and Thurkalton at 21.
Will dated 24 Sept. 1621. Proved P. C. C 19 May
1627. Died at Ardleigh, Essex. Buried at Shotley,
4 May 1627.

ANN Derehaugh co-exct
of husband's will. Came to
America as early at /0S7,
and lived in Salem, Mass.

BENJAMIN, life annuity,
of £10 under father's will.
Legatee under brother John
will, 1621. Buried at Shot-
ley, 23 May 1627.

.Y, legatee under fa
; will 1596. Then un-
edf Married Harrison.

ELIZABETH, legatee un-
der father's will 1596.

JOSEPH STRATTON, legatee un-
der father's will of £100 at 21, and
under brother John's will. Died at
James City, Va. Admon P. C C.J
to relict Joan, 2 June lt>4l ?

JOAN SARAH

JOHN STRATTON, minor in 1621. Devisee under
father's will of Manor of Thurkalton after mother's
death. Had grant of 2,000 acres of land in New Eng
land I Dec. Ib31 , having then resided three , ears there.

WILLIAM, legatee under
father's will of £100 at 21.

ANTHONY, legatee under
father's will of JElOO at 21.

ANN, leginder father's
will of £it 18.

ELIZABETH, legatee under father's
will of £ 100 at 18. Came to America
in the ship "increase" in April /035'
Married John Thorndtke and settled
in Beverly, Mass.

MARY, legatee under fa-
ther's will of £100 at 18.

DOROTHY, legatee under
father's will of £100 at 18.
Came to America about
1037

J

i t>;

ENGLAND— THE SHOTLEY LINE

Arms: Argent, on a cross sable, five besants.

In the eastern part of England, about seventy-five miles from
London, near the extreme end of the peninsula formed by the
rivers Orwell and Stour stands the village of Shotley, or, as it is
called in Domesday, "Scoteleia." Another name commonly
coupled with the place in ancient records is Kirketon, frequently
abbreviated into Kirton, and signifying, as we gather from the
form it takes in Domesday — " Cherchetuna " — the town or hamlet
of the church.

Directly opposite the village of Shotley, looking across the
estuary of the united rivers, may be seen the town of Harwich,
with its crowded shipping; and, beyond the town, a glint of the
open sea. Dovercourt, where Richard Stroughton, or Stratton,
was vicar in the early part of the sixteenth century, lies a little
further south. A ferry boat plies between Harwich and Shotley
Gate, as the pier or landing place is called. Ipswich, nine miles
away, may be reached either by the Orwell or by road; and it
was no doubt by the latter that Thomas Stratton, squire of
Shotley, travelled when he proceeded to Ipswich, in the twenty-
seventh year of the reign of good Queen Bess, to obtain from the
magistrates of that town licence for Mistress Dorothy, his wife,
to "eat fleshmete during the Lenten season," because of some
infirmity with which she was then afflicted.

"A note of all such Persons as be lycenced to eat fleshmete this
lent season by the Bayliffs of Ipswich according to the Orders &
directions of Her Maties Most Honorable Pvy Councell: —

" Dorothie the wief of Thomas Stratton gent."

1585, Ipswich Court Books.

Coming up the gentle slope of Shotley Street from the Gate,
one descries ahead, crowning a moderate eminence overlooking
the Haven of Orwell, the odd structure known as Shotley church.
According to Domesday, two churches stood in this parish in the
time of the Conqueror, but one of these has long since crumbled
into dust, its very site being now unknown. As it fell into disuse
and ruin — as it appears to have done at a very early period — the

religious interests of the community centered more and more in the
remaining church, and hence in course of time that part of the
parish in which it stood came to be known as Kirketon, or Church-
town, as distinguished from Shotley proper.

On the present church time has laid its hand heavily. The
ancient upper tower has totally disappeared. The Chapel of St.
Anne probably stood at the east end of the north aisle. No trace
of it now remains, nor is there anything to indicate the window
towards the construction, or completion, of which Edmund
Stratton in 1474 contributed his six shillings and four pence.
The church has no stained glass. (See Will of Edmund
Stratton.)

Unpretentious as the church is in outward appearance, the in-
terior is greatly admired for its "elegance" — by which term, it is
to be feared, is intended the beauty of the restoration carried out
by the incumbent in 1745, rather than the chaste architecture of
the more ancient roof or windows. Certainly the 1745 chancel,
with its finely carved reredos, its oak panelling, and its chancel
arch of wood, is interesting work of its kind; but one regrets the
disappearance of the older chancel, and deplores the inconsiderate
care with which every vestige of funeral monuments, mural tab-
lets, and memorial inscriptions has been removed, obliterated, or
hidden from view. The lofty thirteenth-century arch from the
nave into the tower, which was then bricked up, but has within
recent years been opened out again, could better be spared than
these. All have disappeared. Of the members of the Stratton
family who, as we learn from the wills, were laid to rest within
the church, not a trace remains. Their only surviving monument
in the parish is the ancient manor house, still known as Kirkton
Hall, and the entries in what remains of the earlier parish registers.

These are unfortunately only too few in number. Everything
relating to the baptisms, marriages and burials of the family, as
it was before the year 1571, is lost. From that date onwards the
burial register is intact; but the registers containing the marriages
and baptisms are missing. On turning out the parish chest a few
fragmentary sheets of ancient paper — remnants of the original
register — were found adhering to the iron bottom. From these
three Stratton baptisms were gleaned. They are written in a
much bolder hand than the other entries amongst which they

The Stour River, Below Dedham Bridge
{Page 49)

Mill Laxe
Showing the church tower, Dedham village. (Pages 43-49.)

appear, thus indicating that the family so honored was one of
importance in the parish.*

The Chantry Certificates in the Public Record Office in London
for the year 1546 show that there was anciently attached to the
church of Shotley a chantry endowed with lands to the value of £7
a year. Of this sum lis. went to the poor; the remainder to a
priest to sing masses in the church for the souls of the departed.
Such, at least, was the intention of the founder, one Richard
Stroughton or Stratton, clerk, sometime curate of the church of
Harwick, afterwards vicar of that church and of the adjoining
church of Dovercourt.

WILL of RYCHARD STROUGHT(ON), preest, Vicar of Dower-
courte and of Harwich, (co. Essex), dated 16 September,
1531. Abstract.
To be beryed in the chapell of Dowercourte, before the Image
of the Roode there, or in the chapell of Saint Saviour in Harwich.
I wyll that the day and yere of my departyng be graven upon the
stone which I bought and ys all redy made to be layd oon my
grave To the priour and convent of Colne to regyster my name
to be prayed for there xs. To the Black ffryers of Ipswich vjs.
viijd., for that I am a brother ther. A treigentall of masses to be
songe for me where I lye. My buryall, my vijth daye, my xxx
day, and my yere tyde to be kept. I wyll have fyve masses of the
five woundes of our lorde god to be seyd for me at the King's newe
chappell at Westminster, and in lyke maner at Boston. Ellyn
Browne (dowter of Robert Browne) all my moveable goods in

* The greater part of these notes on the Shotley Strattons were furnished
the compiler by Mr. J. Henry Lea, Genealogist, and Mr. Hutchinson of Lon-
don. Some of the sources searched for data are:

Cromwell's Excursions in Suffolk.

Davy's Noblemen and Gentlemen of Suffolk.

Kirby, J., The Suffolk Traveller.

Page, A., History of Suffolk.

Suffolk, Nobility and Gentry of.

Add. Mss., Visitations of Suffolk.

Add. Mss., Suffolk Collections.

Add. Mss., English Pedigrees (Suffolk).

Hart. Mss., Arms and Pedigrees of Suffolk Families.

The Registers at Shotley and Dedham.

Probate records at Ipswich.

my howse at Dowercourte except the bedstedd in the hall which
shalbe reservyd to Richard Allen. Margaret Strangman my newe
howse by the churchyard in Harwich, which I lately edifyed.
All my goodys that be in Beldames otherwyse called Giles I wyll
equally to Margaret Strangman and Richard Culfo. To Harrye
Dennant my boye my howse called Bennetts after the decess of
Alice Fykytt. Elwys Clays my tenement in Harwich called
Wryts. Alice Sparke my howse in Harwich called Giles. My
lands and tenements in the Soken, viz. in Thorpe and Kyrkeby
to be sold. Ellen Browne my greate howse in Harwich. Richard
Culfo my tenement called Monks in Ramsey, he paying therefor
yerely xxvjs. viijd. towards the fynding of a preest to syng for
me, my frendes sowles, and all xpian soules, in Schotley; likewise
my howse in Thorpe. Myn executors or els the churchwardens of
Schotley shall bye asmuche lande as the yerely valour of xxs.
towards the increase of my seyd preests lyving to syng for me at
Shotley. Whereas the churchwardens of Shotley joyntly with
othir been seased of & yn certayn londs in Chelmeton, Shotley,
Dovercourte, and Ramsey to thuse of this my wyll, that ys to
say to thuse of a preest to syng for my soule, my fathers soule,
my mothers soule, and all xpen soules in the parish churche of
Shotley, now if at any tyme to come yt so happen that the seyd
use be barred or broken by the Kings lawes, then I wyll all the
seyd londes be solde and the money thereof given to an honest
preest to syng as aforeseyd as long as the money will endure.
Proved 20 October 1531.

Prerogative Court of Canterbury. Thrower 8.

Whether he was a member of the Shotley family, we cannot say
with certainty, but the fact of his having founded the chantry
there in order that masses might be said for the souls of his father
and mother, as well as for his own, would seem to indicate either
that he was of the Shotley Strattons or very nearly related to
them.

Shotley: In feoffment a chantry founded by Richard
Strought(on), Vicar of Dovercourt, (co. Essex), and divers
others One stipendiary priest to sing in the parish church of
Shotley for 99 years. The lands then to be sold to maintain a
priest as long as the money remains. Present priest, John Bull,
aged 33 years, of "very honest conversation and small learning,

as reported; holding no better living." Yearly value £7. To
the poor lis. No jewels or goods.

Chantry Cert, Suffolk: 1546 — P. R. Office, London.
The priest for whose maintenance he thus provided did not long
continue to sing for the souls of the departed in the old church
overlooking the Orwell and the Stour. Long ere the 99 years of
the original enfeoffment had expired the Reformation came, and
with it the wholesale confiscation of lands demised to " pious uses "
such as this. The chantry lands of Shotley thus became the prop-
erty of the Crown, and Edward the Sixth, having founded a Gram-
mar School at Bury St. Edmunds, conferred them upon that school
as part of its endowment. Something of their later history is un-
folded in the Chancery suit, "The Town of Bury St. Edmunds v.
Edward Goodling and others," One of the defendants in this ac-
tion was "Stratton, widow." This was none other than Mistress
Dorothy, relict of Thomas Stratton of Shotley, gentleman, and
mother of Joseph Stratton, probably the first of the name to
adventure his fortune in the New World. She died early in the
year 1617, having in the meantime married again; and John
Stratton, her eldest son, administered her estate.

The Bill of Complaint of the Governors of the Free Grammar

School of King Edward the Sixth in Bury St. Edmunds co.

Suffolk, dated 7 May, 1599:—

The said Governors are seised in their demense as of fee n the

Chauntrie of Kirketon alias Shotley and in lands called Hanslett

Stirpe, Hailes, Crowes Tenement and Cokes lying in Kirketon

alias Shotley and in Shelympton alias Chelmston to the said

Chauntries sometyme belonging; all which Chauntrie and lands the

said late King by his Letters Patent did graunte for the maynten-

aunce of the said School. But nowe one Edward Goodinge gent and

others, viz. Robert Knappe, (blank) Stratton, widowe, John Mer-

rells, Thomas Lewgar gent, William Dawes and divers others have

wrongfully entered into the said Chauntrie lands and do wrongfullie

take the whole yssews thereof to their own uses, to the eveill ex-

amplesof others and to the hindrance of godlye and charatable uses.

The Answer of Edward Goodinge, one of the defendants, to the

above Bill of Complaint, dated 8 June 41 Eliz.: —

This defendant saith it is verv trewe that the Governors of the

said School were about xxiiij yeres since seised of and in the said
Chauntrie lands; but it is likewise very trewe that before those
lands came into the possession of the said Governors, they were
letten to ferme for the term of four score and nynetene yeres.
These leases the predecessors of the said Governors, about xvj
yeres since, did confirm by charter; which charter this defendant
is prepared to produce in support of his title.

Chan. Proc. Eliz. B. 14:25 P. R. Office, London.

Kirkton Hall — or, as it is now commonly called, Shortly Hall —
is in all probability the same as that referred to in the Stratton
wills as the family residence, although little of the present building
is of earlier date than about 1630. It is a picturesque half-timbered
house, of no great size, having the older part much rebuilt and
added to. Internally it has been sadly cut up and altered. For-
merly the inmates entered a spacious hall-place, which ran sheer
up to the height of the roof. The upper portion of this hall has
long since been converted into chambers.*

Kirkton Manor is still called by that name. It appears to have
come into possession of the Strattons through the marriage of
Isabell, daughter and heir of Sir William Loudham, with one of
the early Strattons of Levington. The eldest son of this marriage,
Walter de Stratton, died seized of the Manor in 1392. He was the
immediate progenitor of the Strattons of Shotley, who held the
Manor until about 1627, when it was sold by Ann Stratton, relict
of John of Shotley and Ardleigh, and John her eldest son.f

* This property passed out of the hands of the Stratton family about 1630,
having been sold by John Stratton, Jr., and his mother Ann Stratton when
they were making preparations for coming to America. The present owner is
Mr. Berners of Woolverstone, who kindly sent the compiler the picture of
Shotley Hall.

t From Davy's Suffolk Collections:
Walter de Stratton cone' Dno Hen' Despenser Epo Norwic' & al' xiij marc'
argent' ann' redd' precipiend' annuat' ad totam vitam Isabella fil' Willi de
Loudham chr See Monial' Domus See Katerine in Flixton de Mnio suo de
Kirkton juxta Erwarton & de oibz ten' & terr' suis in villis de Cockefeld
Alpheton & Shimplinge que nup' fuer' Jo de Shimplingford. (Harl. MSS.
1176.)

MANOR OF KIRKTON alias SHOTLEY

Sir William de Loudham Knt died 50 E. 3, 1376.

Walter de Stratton his heir died 1392.

Augustine Stratton held what was late Wm. de Loudham, 1428.

The Ancient Stratton Hall, ok Kirkton Manob

.Original seat of the Suffolk Strattons and occupied by them in the time of

Edward III. (Page 48.)

From a photograph taken for the compiler in 1906.

Shotley, or Kirkton Hall

Parental home of Joseph Stratton 1 of James City, Va., and John

Stratton 1 of Salem, Mass. (Page 48, also chart 1.)

The Shotley Line 49

In his will, dated 15 April, 1596, Thomas Stratton of Shotley
speaks of John Morgan of Ipswich, gentleman, as "my cousin,"
and devises to him in trust all his lands — excepting only those
forming the jointure of Dorothy his wife — until John Stratton,
his son and heir, then a minor, should attain the age of one and
twenty years. (See Will of Thomas Stratton.)

John Morgan lived in the parish of St. Clement's, Ipswich — a
parish from very early times the resort of all the better class of
seafaring men of this busy and enterprising seaport. Under the
shadow of St. Clement's dwelt the "mariners," the "master
mariners," and the shipwrights of Ipswich — men who built their
own ships and sailed them into every part of the commercial
world.

It was into contact with such men as these — some of them sea-
soned sailors who had many a time made the voyage into those
mysterious "parts beyond the seas" of which the landsman
dreamed, others of them lads like themselves, sweating out the
days of their apprenticehood at capstan and halliards — that the
young Strattons were brought, and probably almost daily. From
the windows of the old Hall at Shotley one could watch their ships
come and go. From Shotley Gate one could board them, with the
aid of a boat, what time they came crawling into Orwell Haven,
weather worn and heavy from some distant voyage, yet redolent
withal of their rich cargoes of East Indian spices or Virginia
"leaf." The house at Dedham where Thomas Stratton died was
a matter of only an hour's hard rowing down the winding reaches
of the Stour; the house of Ardleigh, where John Stratton ended
his days, rather less.

In this way we can imagine the glamour of the sea, and of those
marvellous lands which lay beyond it, laying its spell upon the
young Squires of Shotley. Other influences were at work there,
too. It was at Trimley St. Mary, just across the Orwell rom
Shotley, that Thomas Cavendish, the circumnavigator, was born;

Edmund Stratton died 17 E. 4, 1477 (sic)

Augustine Stratton elk. son and heir 1477 (Brothers. See will of Edmund.)

George Stratton died 14 Hen. 7. (Brothers. See will of Edmund.)

George Stratton son and heir died 14 Hen. 7., 1498

John Stratton gent son and heir died 2 Eliz. 1560

Thomas Stratton gent son and heir died 29 Eliz. (sic)

John Stratton son and heir (died 1627).

from Ipswich Old Quay that he sailed away, whilst Joseph Stratton
was yet a boy, on that ill-fated voyage from which he never re-
turned. Not so far away lay also the village of Grundisburgh,
the birthplace of the first Englishman — Captain Bartholomew
Gosnold — to make the direct voyage to New England, and to
winter upon its shores. Gosnold had brought back with him a
new tuber, called "patatoe," and there was much speculation as
to whether it would grow in English soil and prove suitable food
for English people. And last, but by no means least, there was
the unprecedented action of the staid old Council and Portmen
of Ipswich Town, who, at a recent Great Court holden in Moothall
— 4 March, 8 James I. — had actually "adventured" the sum of
One Hundred Pounds, out of the town moneys, "in the voyage
into Virginia."

Out from under such influences came Joseph Stratton to Vir-
ginia and John Stratton to New England, in 1628.

A more extensive research would probably show that other
Strattons came to America from the same locality — and possibly
from the Shotley line.

WILLS AND INQUISITIONS FROM ORIGINAL SOURCES

WILL of EDMOND STRATTON— 1474. (Ipswich Wills-
Book II, fo. 266)
In The Name of God Amen I Edmond Stratton of Shortle
skwyer the last day of September 1474 being in my good
mende make my testament and my last will in this wyse ffirst
I be owethe my Sowle to Almyghty god and to our lady Seynte
Mary and myn body to be beryed in the cherche of Shotle Also I
be qwethe to a wyndowe on the northe syde of ye chappell of
Seynte Anne in the chirce of Shotle xxvjs. viijd. I will yt George
my sone have the maner of Levyngton with all the londys and
pertenawnce longyng to ye seyd maner duryng his lyve And aftr
the disses of the seyd George I will that myn feffis make a suffi-
cient state in tayle to myn heyrys made with oute ende And for
defaute of eyrys male unto the eyrys generall Also I will that
John Chapman make a state in the maner of Thorkalton to such
men as Margete my wyff and Austyn Stratton clerk my sone wil
name to the pfyte of the seyd Margete duryng hir lyff Also I will

that the seyd Margete and hr attorne have onte of the seyd man
of Thorkylton x marke vj yere aftr hir disses for to paye myn
dettys And also I wil that after the disses of ye seyd Margete
myn wyff that Awstyn Stratton clerk myn sone have the seyd
maner of Thorklyton duryng hys lyff And aftr the disses of the
seyd Margete and Awstyn I wyll yt ye ffeffes make a sufficient
estate in tayle to George Stratton and to the eyris male of his body
lawfully begetyn And for defaute of eyris male of the seyd George
to John Stratton and to the eyris male of his body lawfully begetyn
and so foorthe for defaute of issu male to his nexte brother and his
issu male and so forthe from on brother to a nothir to thir issu
male as long as ony brother is on lyve And for lak of soche issu
male to ye eyrys generall Also I wyll yt ye hangyng of ye great
chambir jj greet spets a greet braspott ij awndernys and ij tram-
aylys remayne to the place Also I beqwethe all the remnawnt of
ye stuff of myn howse to Margete myn wyff Also I be qwethe the
residue of all myn goody s be for not beqwethyn to Margaret myn
wyff whom I ordeyne and make myn executrix.

SUFFOLK INQUISITION taken at Ipswich co. Suffolk 13 Octo-
ber 17 Ed. 4 (1477) before John Penley the King's Eschea-
tor in said county by virtue of a write dated 25 October
17 Ed. 4, by the oaths of Thomas Bennys Thomas Alwyn
Henry Thorne Thomas Cook Richard Punt Geoffrey Taylour
John Belle Thomas Craske John Whytyng John Stolyard
John Whyte Richard Beden and John Pyt who say:

That Edmund Stratton did not hold any lands or tenements of
the King in capite on the day he died for that before his death by
charter dated at Kyrketon 13 August 14 Ed. 4. he did grant and
confirm unto Robert Brewes Esz John Cheke Bennet Caldwell
John Pope elk. Richard Faryngton elk. and Thomas Vecatour of
London all that the Manor of Kyrketon with all the lands tene-
ments rents and services thereto belonging and all other the lands
called Le Perye as they lie in the towns of Kyrketon Shotley Er-
warton and Chelmondeston co. Suffolk to have and to hold to
the aforesaid Robert John etc. etc. and their heirs and assigns for
ever BY virtue of which gift and confirmation the said Robert
John etc. etc. were thereof seised in their demesne as of fee; That

the said Manor is worth per annum in all issues 10 marks; That it
is holden of Cecily Duchess of York as of her Honor of Clare by
the service of a fourth part of one Knight's fee; That the said
Edmund Stratton died 11 October 16 Ed. 4 (1476): That Augus-
tine Stratton clerk is son and next heir of said Edmund and of the
age of 40 years; and that Margaret Stratton late wife of said Ed-
mund hath occupied the aforesaid premises from the said 1th day
of October until the taking of this Inquisition and hath taken the
profits thereof and is of the said premises seised in her demense
as of free tenure by virtue of the aforesaid charter.

Chancery Inquisitons Post Mortem 17 Ed. 4.

SUFFOLK INQUISITION taken at Blythborough co. Suffolk
28 October 14 Henry VII. (1498) before Philip Tylney Esq.
the King's Escheator in said county.

The Jurors say on oath that before the taking of this Inquisi-
tion Robert Brews Esq. John Cheke and Benedict Caldwell were
seized in their demesne as of fee of and in the Manor of Kirton and
being thereof so seized did by charter give that Manor to Thomas
Sampson Esq. William Grys William Grye Edmund Bokkyng and
John Caldwell to have and to hold to them and their assigns for
the term of the life of Elizabeth Stratton late wife of George Strat-
ton with remainder thereof after the death of the said Elizabeth
to the aforesaid George Stratton and the heirs males of his body
lawfully begotten BY virtue of which gift the same Thomas
Sampson and his feoffees aforesaid were thereof seized in their
demesne as of freehold Which Manor is worth per annum ten
pounds and is holden of Philip Calthorp Knt. as of his Manor of
Erwarton by fealty but by what other services the Jurors know
not.

The Jurors also say that before the taking of this Inquisition
the said George Stratton was seised in his demesne as of fee of and
in the Manor of Thurkolton and being thereof so seised did give
that Manor unto Edward Sulyard John Sulyard John Caldwell
Peter Tybell elk. and William Pixsoner to hold to the use of the
said George and his heirs and assigns for ever And afterwards the
said George died and by his last will (to the said Jurors in evidence
produced) did will that his executor should take the issues and

profits of the said Manor for the term of 15 years for the fulfilling
of his said will and that, the said term ended, the said Manor
should remain to George Stratton his eldest son and to his heirs
males for ever That the said George Stratton (the father) died on
Friday next after the Feast of Pentecost 13 Henry VII (1498);
that George Stratton is his son and heir and of the age of 8 years;
and that the said George Stratton held no other lands in county
Suffolk the day he died.

Exch: Inquis: P. M. file 610, No. 6.

WILL of GEORGE STRATTON of Kirketon alias Shotleye co.

Suffolk gentilman dated 24 August 1 Edward VI. (1547.)

Abstract. (P. C. C. Populwell 9.)
To be buried within the church of Shotley. John Stratton my
son and his heirs males all my lands in Kirkton alias Shotley and
other towns adjoining except a tenement at the church gate of
Shotley sometime Richard Strangman's which I do give unto Eliz-
abeth Hawys my sister. Anthony Stratton my son £20. Robert
Stratton my son £20 to be paid in the year 1550. Margaret Strat-
ton my daughter £30 to be paid in the year 1552. Philip Stratton
my son £20 to be paid in the year 1554. John Stratton my son to
pay all these sums. Agnes Sakes £3. Katherine Harman my
daughter ij mylch kyen. Elizabeth Hewes aa fetherbedd. William
my servant. I will that John my son perform all such covenants
as are between me and John Southwell and Ciselye Sampson
widow. I will that John my son shall have all my cattails plate
corn etc. together with such sums as be due to me from John South-
well; he putting in bonds to my executor for the payment of my
debts funeral charges etc. I will have bestowed at my buryall
such charges with dedes of charitie as shall be thought necessarie;
and an honest herce with myn armys so that it be done without
pompe or pride. I will have a grave stone with myn armys uppon
it. Executor Robert Caldwell. My cosin Thomas Yaxleye to be
an helper to myn executor. My son John shall not demand any
gift that I have given and not rehersyd herein. I give to Thomas
Bayman for his paynes to come to Shotleye to see the bondys layed
and delivered by my son John vs. Witnesses: John Strat-
ton, Thomas Yaxley, John Davers, Francis Harman. Codicil
(undated): If John my son do refuse to perform my will then

my executor and such as I do put in trust shall enjoy the profits
of my Manor of Kirketon for four years towards the performance
of this my will. Witnesses: Thomas Yaxleye, William Rich-
ards, John Stratton, John D avers. 13 June 1548 Robert Caldwell
the executor renounced and commission issued to John Stratton
the son to administer.

WILL of JOHN STRATTON of Kyrketon alias Shotlie co.
Suffolk gentellmanne, dated 8 December 1559. (C. C. Nor-
wich.)
I leave my bodye to be buryede in the Churche of Kyketon
neyghe unto the Sepulture of my father. Mary and Elizabeth my
daughters and their heirs my tenements called Guiles and Mondes
in Kyrketon sometyme James Biscoo's with the lands to them be-
longing as contained in a deed of feoffment to me made by John
Barlye deceased. Robert, Richard, Cicelie and Elizabeth children
of my brother in law Francis Harman £3-6s-8d. each at 21 out of
my Manor lands. Philip Stratton my brother xx marks. Margaret
Stratton my sister £30 at marriage. Anthony Stratton my brother
"if he be on live," £3-6-8; but if he be departed from this life,
then to his wife 26s. 8d. Cycelie Forgonn my god daughter 13s.
4d. Executrix, Cicelie my wife. Supervisor, Richard Cornwalyes
Esq, to whom for his paynes a graye mare of iij yeres olde. Ann
Bingelowe widow of London 26s. 8d.
Proved 16 June 1561 by the executrix.

SUFF. INQUISITION taken at Bury in the county aforesaid the

23rd day of September sic, 2 Eliz. post mortem John

Stratton Esq.:—

The Jurors say on oath that George Stratton father of the said

John Stratton was seised in his demesne as of fee of and in the

Manors of Thurkelton and Kyrkton 260 acres of land 30 acres of

meadow 100 acres of pasture 100 acres of marsh and 12s. rent with

appurtenances in Thurkelton Kyrkton Shotley Arwarton and

Chemyngton in the aforesaid county and of and in one cottage

called Mimes one other cottage called Strangmans and another

cottage late James Bastowes and being so seised did by Indenture

dated 24 August 25 Henry 8. made between one Cicily Sampson

then relict of Nicholas Sampson Esq deceased and before relict of

Thomas Felton Esq. deceased and one John Southwell gent
executor of the last will of the said Thomas Felton on the one part
and the aforesaid George and the said John Stratton then son and
heir apparent of the said George on the other part covenant with
the said Cicily Sampson and John Southwell in consideration of a
marriage between the said John Stratton and Cicily Felton one
of the daughters of the said Thomas Felton to be celebrated and
solemnized that the said George should recognize by Fine in the
Court of King's Bench at Westminster the said Manor of Thur-
kelton to be the right of one Humphrey Wingfield Knt as that
which the said Humphrey Thomas Seckford Esq. John Fletewood
George Christmas John Southwell and John Soone gents had of
the gift of the said George and that said Humphrey Thomas John
etc. and their heirs after the said Fine suffered should stand seised
of and in the said Manor to the sole use and behoof of the said John
Stratton and Cicily Felton and of the heirs males of the said John
of the body of the said Cicily lawfully begotten and for default of
such to the use of the said John and the heirs males of his body
and for default of such to the use of Anthony Stratton another son
of said George Stratton and their heirs males of said Anthony and
for default of such to the use of Robert Stratton another son of
said George and the heirs males of said Robert and for default of
such to the use of Philip Stratton another son of said Goerge and
the heirs males of said Philip and for default of such to the right
heirs of said George for ever and the said George Stratton by
the said Indenture did further covenant with the said Cicily
Sampson and John Southwell that within three years next follow-
ing the date of said Indenture he the said George should make a
good and sufficient estate in fee simple of and in the said Manor
of Kyrkton sic and of and in divers lands to the said Manor be-
longing and of and in all other the lands of the said George except
the three cottages aforesaid unto the aforesaid feoffees and unto
Francis Harman and John Stevens alias Frelove to have and to
hold to the said feoffees and their heirs to the sole use and behoof
of the said George and of so much of them as he the said George
should assign for the term of their lives to such wife or wives as he
should marry and if it happened the said George not to marry
them after the decease of the said George to the sole use of the
executors of the said George for the performance of his last will

during four years next following his decease and after the said
four years ended to the sole use and behoof of the said John Strat-
ton and his heirs males of the body of the said Cicily Felton law-
fully begotten with contingent remainders as before limited and
expressed in default of such issue And the Jurors say that the
said John Stratton afterwards took to wife the said Cicily Felton
and that the said Fine was suffered in the said Court in the 25th
year of King Henry the Eighth By virtue of which Fine the said
John Stratton and Cicily his wife were seised of the said Manor of
Thurkelton in their demesne viz. the said John as of fee tail and
the said Cicily as of freehold with remainders as in the said In-
denture expressed and limited And of the said Manor of Kyrkton
and all other the lands and tenements which the said George
Stratton had in co. Suffolk except those excepted And afterwards
the said George Stratton died and the said John outlived him and
was seised of the said Manor of Kyrton and of all other the prem-
ises above recited in his demesne as of fee tail and of and in the
said cottages in his demesne as fee and being so seised did die the
16th day of December sic 2 Eliz. And Cicily wife of the said John
outlived him and is now living at Shotley aforesaid And the said
Manor of Thurkelton at the time of the death of said John was
holden of Thomas Felton Esq. as of his Manor of Shotley and is of
the clear annual value of £13 And the said Manor of Kyrkton
was then holden of the Queen as of her Honor of Clare by knight
service viz. by the quarter part of one knight's fee for all services
and is of the clear annual value of £10 And the said cottages are
holden as parcel of the Manor of Kyrkton and are of the annual
value of 20s. And that Thomas Stratton is son and heir of the
said John Stratton and was of the age of 14 years at the time of
his father's death.

Wards and Liveries, Vol. S-N. 117.

WILL of THOMAS STRATTON of Karketon alias Shotley co.

Suffolk gent now lyving in Dedham co. Essex dated 15 April

1596. Abstract. (P. C. C. Drake 84.)
Dorothy my wife shall during her life enjoy these demense
lands parcell of my Manor of Kyrketon alreaddie assured for her
jointure (all which lands are situate in Shotley and towns ad-
joining) and shall vertuouslie carefullie and motherlie bring up my

children in good educacon. To her I give likewise all my house-
hold stuff in my house in Dedham where I now remayne together
with a silver pott that was her father's. My farm or Manor of
Thurkoulton alias Shurkelton and all my lands in the tenure of
Thomas Crickman and Robert Runting in Shotley and certain
lands in the occupation of John Sparke (which I had of Sir Philip
Parker Knt in Shotley) I give unto John Morgan of St. Clem-
ents in Ipswich gent until John my son and heir shall accomplish
his age of one and twenty years the said John Morgan in the
meantime performing this my will with the issues and profits
thereof. If my wife decease before my son John accomplish his
said age then I will all the lands unto her devised to John Morgan
until my said son attain his full age. Benjamin my son a life
annuity of £10 out of the said lands after my son John shall
enjoy them. Mary my (eldest) daughter £50 at marriage and £5
yearly until that time. Elizabeth my daughter £50 at one and
twenty. Sarah Beriff my daughter's child £30 at 21. My son
Joseph £100 at 21 and £5 yearly after his age of 14 years for his
maintenance.* Sarah Beriff my daughter. My sister Elizabeth
Hankyn 20s. to buy her a ring; also £10. Roger, Thomas, and
John Tankyn children of my said daughter 40s. apiece at 21. My
servants Elizabeth Squire and Katherine Sallowes. Poor of Shot-
ley £5; poor of Dedham 20s. Executors, my wife Dorothie and
John Morgan. The rest of my lands and tenements in co. Suffolk,
I will to John Morgan until my eldest son attain his full age. To
my cosyn John Morgan £10 and the pasturing of two geldings in
certain marshes before to him devised. My cosyn John Collett a
black coulte now going upon Dedham Heathe. Ann Morgan my
cosyn John Morgan's wife 20s. to buy her a ring as a gentle token
of my remembrance. Mr Doctor Chapman 40s. Thomas Bate my
servant the end of the house wherein he now dwelleth during his
life.
Witnesses :

John Cullet, William Debnam
Proved 4 November 1596 by Thomas Ashwood proctor for John

Morgan the executor, power being reserved to Dorothie the

relict.

* This is the Joseph Stratton who came to James City, Va., in 1628 and was
member of the House of Burgesses the following year.

SUFFOLK INQUISITION Taken at Stowmarket co. Suffolk
19 January 39 Elizabeth before John Batty sforde Esqr. the
King's Escheator for said county post mortem Thomas
Stratton gent:

The Jurors find that Thomas Stratton was on the 18th
of August 15 Eliz. seised in his demesne as of fee of and in
the Manor of Kyrketon alias Shotley in co. Suffolk and being
thereof so seised did by Indenture bearing date the same
18 August 15 Eliz. for the jointure of Dorothy then his wife
enfeoff John Nicolls of Laxfield co. Suffolk gent John Dameron
of Westerfield co. Suffolk gent and Robert Felton of Grun-
disburgh co. Suffolk get of and in the said Manor and of and
in all the lands etc. thereto belonging lying in Kirkton alias
Shotley Chelmondeston and Arwarton to have and to hold
to the said feoffees to the sole use and behoof of the said
Thomas Stratton and Dorothy his wife and to the heirs males
of the said Thomas of the body of the said Dorothy lawfully
begotten and in default of such to the sole use and behoof
of the right heirs of the said Thomas for ever By virtue
of which enfeoffment the said Thomas and Dorothy were
seised of and in the whole site of the said Manor viz. Thomas
in his demesne as of fee tail and Dorothy for the term of her
life And the said Thomas was seised of and in the residue
of the said Manor to him and his heirs for ever.

The Jurors further say that the said Thomas Stratton was
at death likewise seised in his demesne as of fee of and in
the Manor of Thurkolton alias Shurkolton in co. Suffolk and
of and in one close of land containing 3 acres late purchased
of Philip Parker Knt; that the said Thomas before he died
did make his last will in writing and did thereby devise his
said Manor of Thurkolton with all other his lands in co.
Suffolk unto one John Morgan in trust until John son of the
said Thomas should be 21 years of age; that said Thomas
died the 29th day of May last past at Dedham in co. Suffolk
sic; that John Stratton is his son and next heir and of the
age of 15 years and 99 days at the taking of this Inquisition;
that Dorothy late wife of the said Thomas is now alive viz.
at Stownmarket.

Chancery Inquisitions Post Mortem, Vol. 250, No. 24.

WILL of JOHN STRATTON of Shotley co. Suffolk gent dated
24 September 1621. Abstract. (P. C. C. Skynner 52.)
Poor of Shotley £3. I give out of my Manor of Thurcalton alias
Surcalton in Shotley now in the occupation of Thomas Cample
unto Ann my wife £50 yearly for life; the remainder of the rents
of the said Manor to go to my executors towards the bringing up
of my children. I give to my son John * at his age of one and
twenty the remainder of such rents as shall be due out of my said
Manor during the life of Ann his mother; and after her decease
I will all my said Manor unto my son John and his heirs for ever,
and in default to my next heir at law. My Manor at Kirton Hall
where I do now dwell with the lands thereto pertaining and now in
the occupation of me the said John Stratton, Richard Throward,
Christopher Wilton, and John Wilton I will shall be sold by my
executors for the performance of this my will. William and
Athony my sons £100 each at 21. My eldest daughter Ann £100
at 18. Elizabeth, Marie, and Dorothie my daughters £100 each at
18. f Residuary legatees my executors. Benjamin Stratton my
brother £6-13-8. Joseph my brother 40s. to buy him a ring. My
kinswman Marie Harrison 20s. Executors Ann my wie and John
my son. Supervisor Mr. Robert Clench of Holbrooke co. Suffolk
Esq.
Witnesses:

John Havell ser., John Wilton
Proved 19 May 1627 by Ann Stratton the relict and John Strat-
ton the son executors.

John Stratton the testator died at Ardleigh in Essex — the
parish adjoining Dedham — and was buried at Shotley. John his
son must have been of age on or before 19 May, 1627, else he could
not have obtained probate of the will. Careful search was made
in the Close Rolls, at the Public Record Office, London, for the
Indenture of sale of the Manor of Kirkton, but without success.
Failure to discover it is probably due to the fact that the in-
dentures there enrolled are calendared Under The Names of
Grantees Only. In this case the names of the Grantors only are
known."

* This John Stratton, Jr., came to America and settled at Salem, Mass.
t The daughters, Elizabeth and Dorothy, came to Salem, with their mother,
Ann Stratton, widow.

LAND GRANTS

Grant of land on the coast of Maine to John Stratton of Shotley.
By the Plymouth Council, December 1, 1631.

A Graunt passed to John Stratton of Shatley sic in the County
of Suffolke gent and his Associates of Two Thousand Acres of Land
butting upon the South Side of the River or Creeke called Cape
Porpus and on the other side Northwarde of the said River ex-
tending or to be extended from the said Rivers Mouth of the said
Cape with all other Profitts or Commodities whatsoever there
specified paying to the King one fifth part of all the Gold and Silver
Oare and another fifth part to the President and Councill and
paying more to the said President and Councill for every Hun-
dred Acres of Land in use two shillings to the Rent Gatherer as
by the same Graunte may appeare.

State Colonial Papers, 1574-1631. P. R. Office, London.

Warwick House, 2 December 1631. There was a Pattent agreed
upon for John Stratton for a proporcon of Land containing 2000
acres * * * with all Comodityes & Privileges proper for his
necessary occasions as by his said graunt more at large appeareth.

The Consideration for and in respect that he had lived in New
England these three yaeres last past and had expended 1000 li. in
transporting of cattle and maintaining of servaunts in their Im-
ployment and for that he now purposeth to transport more cattle
and to settle a plantecon there according to his grant and for that
he is to pay the one fifth part of ye Gold and Silver Ore three to
be found to the Kings Maty and one other 5th part to the President
and Councell and also is to pay ijs. for every Hundred Acres of
Land in use by the yeare when it shall be demanded by the Rate
Gatherer and not to Alien the same without consent first had and
obtained which said Pattents were signed by the Lord Gorges and
Sr Ferdinando Gorges and ready to pass ye Seale and afterwards
were left with Mr. Walter Williams to be dispatcht by the Earle
of Warwicx president.

State Colonial Papers, 1631-1633. P. R. Office, London.

In the same month, December, 1631, John Stratton left England to take possession of this grant on the coast of Maine. For
further records of him see "John Stratton of Salem" in this volume.

A Street in Shrivenham Village
{Pages 61 and 98)

Interior of Shrivenham Church
{Page 64)

ENGLAND— THE SHRIVENHAM LINE

Shrivenham is a parish of Berkshire, about seventy miles west
of London. The picturesque old village of Shrivenham, with its
thatched houses, some of them more than four centuries old, is
situated near a remnant of an old Roman road.

How early the Strattons were in Shrivenham has not been
learned. It is quite probable that one of the origins of the name
was in this region. The earliest Stratton will of Berkshire in the
Prerogative Court of Canterbury was probated 1593 (31 Nevill).
Earlier wills might be found in other courts. Mention is made,
on the Hundred Rolls, of Strattons in Northhampton and Oxford,
just north of Berkshire, in the time of Edward I. A more extended
research than the compiler has been able to make would doubt-
less reveal much of interest and might trace the line back to the
origin of the name.

From Burke's "Landed Gentry" we find that Thomas Stratton was buried in the churchyard at Shrivenham in April, 1587.
His wife, Joan, died seven years earlier. They had a son
Thomas, whose eldest son married Anne Locke (an aunt of John Locke the philosopher), and from them is descended John Locke Stratton of Turweston House, Buckinghamshire b 1818 m2 Mary WILLES d 8 Mar 1924, and
George Stratton, Barrister-at-law, and M. P. for Leicester and Northampton.

William Stratton died in Shrivenham in 1604. In his will he
calls himself an "aged man," from which we infer he was born
in the first half of the sixteenth century. As he named one of his
daughters, Joan, and speaks of his cousin Thomas Stratton, it
seems very probable that he was a son of Thomas and Joan
Stratton of Burke's "Landed Gentry."

He is the ancestor of many Strattons in America to-day. (See
the following genealogical outline.)

The churchyard in which William Stratton and his wife were
buried (see his will, page 64) contains many old stones from which
centuries of time have entirely effaced the inscriptions. The old
church, built before 1500, in which services are still held every
Sabbath, was the place of worship for at least twelve generations
of Strattons.

GENEALOGICAL TABLE

I. William Stratton.

Died in Shrivenham, Eng.

Will dated September 16, 1601, probated May 12,
1604.
II. 1. Joan, m. James Saunders.

II. 2. Christian, m. Cox.

II. 3. John, of Shrivenham.

Executor of his father's will in 1604-5.
III. 1. William, son of John, b. 1585.

Lived in London from 1606 to 1636.
Removed to Tenterden, County Kent, where he died
in 1647.

m. 1st, Elizabeth .

m. 2d, Margaret , after 1632.

1. Sarah, b. 1613; m. Isaac Pickering.

2. John, b. 1614; d. in infancy.

3. Rebecca, b. 1615; d. 1620.

4. William, bapt. March 6, 1618; d. 1645.

m. 1st, Sarah Wyatt, December 27, 1742.

2d, Susana , 1647-8.

3d, Anne Waldegrave, 1663.
Lived and died in Tenterden.

a. William, b. 1643; d. 1646.

b. Esther, b. 1648.

m. Benjamin Horner, 1673.

c. *James, bapt. November 26, 1650,

Received degrees B. A., M. A. and D. D. from
Cambridge, 1670-82. Adm. his father's estate
in 1675, and his brother William's estate in 1686.

d. Luke, b. 1652; d. in infancy.

e. Elizabeth, b. 1653.

f. William, b. 1655.

d. in London, 1685, a bachelor.

g. Samuel, bapt. November 17, 1656.

A merchant on Lime St., London, where he died
in 1S93. His will gives one-half of estate to

* Nothing more is known of him. He may have come to America.

wife Hannah and one-half to children (not

named).*
h. Susana, b. 1658; d. 1660.
i. Rebecca, b. 1659; d. 1661.
j. Stephen, b. 1660; d. 1684, unmarried; buried in

Tenterden.

5. Richard, bapt. November 30, 1619.

See Strattons of Long Island.

6. John, bapt. August 14, 1621.

See Strattons of Long Island.

7. *Joseph, bapt. March 10, 1624-5.

Legatee under father's will, 1647.
Perhaps m. Anne Kerbey in London, 1648.

8. Benjamin, bapt. March 10, 1624.

m. .

Died in London, 1662. No issue.

9. Bartholomew, bapt. January 12, 1627-8.

Settled in Boston, Mass., about 1658.

10. Elizabeth, b. 1631.

m. Thomas Couch.

11. Samuel, bapt. July 23, 1633.

m. Rebecca, daughter of William Graves,
a. William, "only child."

Will made February 6, 1690. Left all to his
mother, then a widow.

12. Caleb, bapt. June 10, 1631.

Settled in Boston, Mass., about 1660.

13. Mary, b. 1637; d. 1638.

14. *Thomas, bapt. February 10, 163S-9.

Legatee under father's will, 1647.

15. Nathaniel, bapt. March 5, 1642-3.

m. Elizabeth .

d. 1693, a citizen of London.

a. Mary, m. William Avers before 1693.

b. Nathaniel, named in father's will, 1693. f

c. Elizabeth, named in father's will, 1693.

* Colonel Chester found no later record of these sons in England. They
may have settled in America.

t A Nathaniel Stratton m. Mary Eldridge in Tenterden, April 6, 1727.

The following is a full abstract of William Stratton's will,
dated 16 September, 1601:

"To be buried in Shrivenham Churchyard, near my wife; to
the poor of Shrivenham eight pounds; to my poor sister, Agnes,
five shillings per annum for her life; to Zachary Lidyard and his
wife, my kins-woman, and their children three pounds; to the
children of my son-in-law, James Saunders, viz. John, Richard
Thomas, Nicholas and Jane, twenty pounds among them; to
Christian, my daughter, sixty pounds, but if she die unmarried,
this to go to the children of said James Saunders and my daughter
Joan, his wife; to Margaret and Agnes Coxe, children of my
daughter, Agnes, long since deceased, each twenty shillings when
sixteen years old; to William, son of my son, John Stratton, four
pounds; all residue of my estate to said John, my son, and he to
be my executor. Overseers of my will my cousin, Thomas Strat-
ton and my son-in-law, James Saunders."

The executor, John Stratton, proved the will in the Prerogative
Court of Canterbury 12th of May, 1604. To obtain the relative
value of these legacies, then and now, they must be multiplied by
at least ten. This gives a value of about $5,000, besides the
"residue" — which was probably by far the greater part of his
estate — left to his son John. Nothing more has been learned about
this John Stratton. It is quite probable that he had other children
besides the William mentioned in his father's will. His own will
has not been found.*

William Stratton, son of above John, was apprenticed in Lon-
don in 1599, then aged fourteen years. f In the records of his

This is the only Stratton entry on the Tenterden registers not included
above.

* A thorough search of the Registers of Shrivenham Parish would doubtless
give much additional data, and might account for other Stratton emigrants
to the American colonies. There were Strattons living in Shrivenham until
a few years ago, when the last of the family there died, a very old lady.

t "Serving a seven years' apprenticeship in London and thus securing the
freedom of the city carried with it many advantages. For such an appren-
ticeship a considerable premium was required. Only the well-to-do persons
of the humbler classes could afford so to place their sons, — and even the gen-
try were often glad to avail themselves of placing their younger sons in the
way of maintaining themselves in one of the various branches of business in
London." — Col. Chester for Mr. S. V. Stratton.

a
<

c

x H

ffl

company he is described as "son of John Stratton of Shriven-
ham."

At the end of his seven years' apprenticeship, at the age of
twenty-one, he became a free citizen of London, where he resided
for twenty-five years, in the parish of St. Leonard, in Eastcheap,
at that time in the heart of the old city. He married Elizabeth

about 1612, and the records of the baptisms of their

children are found in the parish register. In 1635 Elizabeth died,
and was buried at St. Leonard's, June 12. Soon after the death
of his wife, William Stratton gave up his business in London and
retired to Tenterden, in the county of Kent. He married, second,

Margaret (a widow with two daughters), who became

the mother of his three younger children, born in Tenterden.
He made his will May 31, 1647, and died within the year. In this
will he describes himself as "jurat," and is so described in the
parish register at Tenterden.*

His will is in the Prerogative Court of Canterbury; following is
a full abstract of it:

"My executor to pay to my wife Margaret, 1,045 pounds, as
agreed upon before our marriage; to my daughter, Elizabeth, 140
pounds, at her marriage, or when twenty years of age, and a trunk
of linen appointed by her mother; to my sons John, Thomas and
Nathaniel, each 120 pounds, when 23 years of age; to Caleb, my
son, 110 pounds when 23; to Joseph, Benjamin and Samuel, my
sons, each 100 pounds, when 23; to Bartholomew, my son, 90
pounds when 23; to my daughter, Sarah Pickering, 10 pounds for
her children; to my wife's daughters, Rose and Margaret, each
10 shillings. All the rest of my estate to William, my son, and he
to be my executor."

It will be seen that his bequests to his wife and younger children
amount to a little more than £2,000. Colonel Chester thinks
it only reasonable to presume that the portion given his eldest son
was as much more. Multiplying by ten to give the equivalent at
the present day, makes £40,000, or $200,000. "It is clear enough
that he was one of the solid and substantial middle-class men of

* "The word jurat is equivalent to alderman, or rather alderman and com-
mon councilman combined. It is an evidence of the social standing of William
Stratton in his new home that his fellow-townsmen elected him one of their
chief rulers." — Col. Chester.

his day, a result obtained, no doubt, during his business career
of a quarter of a century in London." *

Of the sons of William Stratton of Tenterden, who settled in
America, — Bartholomew and Caleb in Boston, and Richard and
John on Long Island, — three, at least, have descendants living
here to-day. f Richard, it will be noticed, is the only son not
named in his father's will in 1647. He was twenty-three years of
age in 1642, — the age at which the other sons were to receive
their portions of the father's estate. He had probably been given
his portion and emigrated from Tenterden to America, settling
on Long Island, where we find him in 1643; and where his brother
John followed a few years later. (See Early Strattons of Long
Island and Early Strattons of Boston.)

* Nearly all the data here given on this branch of the Strattons was kindly
furnished the compiler by Mr. S. V. Stratton of Mississippi, and was obtained
for him in London by the late Col. Joseph Lemuel Chester, the well known
American antiquarian.

t While there is no actual proof that Richard and John Stratton of Tenter-
den and Richard and John Stratton of Long Island are the same, Colonel
Chester, after a most exhaustive and thoughtful research felt fully convinced
that such was the case, and the compiler has found no reason to doubt it.
After giving several pages of data which led him to this conclusion Colonel
Chester adds, "while admitting that this evidence might not be sufficient to
contest an estate at law, I submit that morally it is of the strongest character."

'Attempt the end and never stand in doubt;
Nothing's so hard but search will find it out." Herrick.

This facsimile of an old document in Boston Courthouse,
from which was deciphered material concerning Samuel and
Alice St rati on (see pages 153, 157) serves to show the difficulties
encountered in a search for genealogical and historical truths.
Photographed for this volume.

COLONIAL STRATTONS

'Tis as easy to be heroes as to sit the idle slaves

Of a legendary virtue carved upon our fathers' graves.

Lowell.

THE first Strattons of whom any mention has been found in
colonial records came to America in 1628, — just twenty-one
years after the settlement at Jamestown.

In this year, Joseph Stratton of Harwich, Eng., came to
James City, Va., and his nephew, John Stratton of Shotley,
came to New England.

Before another twenty-one years had passed several more than
the traditional "three brothers" had crossed the Atlantic and
settled in the New World, — while others still had visited our
shores but left no evidence of having settled here.

Before Colonial days were ended the descendants of these early
Strattons were numerous and widely scattered. On the Revolu-
tionary War Records we find no less than one hundred and twelve
names of Strattons who took part in the struggle for American
Independence, — the name being found on the Revolutionary
Rolls in nine of the thirteen original States.

The following outline shows the Colonial Strattons who are
known to be emigrants, and others not yet (1907) traced to any
earlier American ancestor, — with place of settlement, and date of
first mention so far found in Colonial records:

' Joseph Stratton, James City, Va.
John Stratton, Scarboro, Me.
Bartholomew Stratton, Boston
Caleb Stratton,

Richard Stratton, Long Island
John Stratton,

Thomas Stratton, Eastern Shore, Va.
Samuel Stratton, Watertown, Mass.

John Stratton, Watertown, Mass.

1628) Uncle & "I
1628 I nephew
1658 i Broth-
1660 J era

1643
1649

1632
1647

1667

Broth-
ers

English
ancestry
not yet
deter-
mined.

Edward Stratton, Bermuda Hundred, Va. 1671

John Stratton, Woodbury, Conn. 1682

William Stratton, Winsor, Conn. 1706

Emanuel Stratton, New Jersey 1713

Mark Stratton, 1713 I

Joseph Stratton, Watertown, Mass. 1717

(^ Jonathan Stratton, Weston, Mass.

Broth-

Known
"^. to be

emigrants.

1 No clew

found to any

^.connection

J with an earl-
ier American

J line.
Probably
descended

. from some
*? of the above,
but proof of
the same is

J yet wanting.

Of the sixteen Strattons named in this outline, thirteen are
known to have descendants living in the United States to-day.*
The ancestry of the first two,— Joseph of James City, and John
of Salem, — is very fully and interestingly traced back to Walter
de Stratton of Suffolk, England, in 1329. (See The Shotley Line.)

The two Boston emigrants — Bartholomew and Caleb — were
from Tenterden, England, and were great-grandsons of William
Stratton of Shrivenham. Their line back to about the middle of
the sixteenth century is given on another page of this volume.

That Richard and John of Long Island were elder brothers of
Bartholomew and Caleb, there seems no reason to doubt. f (See
Long Island Strattons.)

The English lines of Samuel of Watertown and Thomas of the
eastern shore have not yet been determined. %

Of the next three, — John of Watertown, Edward of Bermuda
Hundred and John of Woodbury, — the most diligent research has
failed to find any trace earlier than the dates given, or the least
clew to any connection with any earlier Strattons. §

Of the last five Strattons named in the outline, it can now only
be said that while it seems very probable that they belong to
earlier American lines, the compiler has so far found no proof of
it.||

(See "Contents" of this Volume for the pages upon which full
records of each of these Colonial Strattons are found.)

In addition to the sixteen Strattons in the above outline,
others have appeared for a short time upon Colonial records,

* Over four thousand of these descendants have been satisfactorily traced
by the compiler. Each line, down to the fifth generation, is given in this first
volume of A Book of Strattons. The second volume will take each line up
where this one leaves it.

t It is very much hoped that actual proof may yet be found.

% Clews, however, have been found which it is hoped will lead to the estab-
lishment of their homes and ancestry in the old world.

§ In this volume these three are treated as emigrants — i. e. the first of
their lines in America.

|| If such is the fact, researches still being made in Connecticut, Massachu-
eetts and New Jersey must in time find the "missing links." It is barely
possible, however, that some of these men were "after planters," coming from
England at about the date of first mention given here — in which case the evi-
dence must be looked for in England.

with no clew to their ancestry and no discovered trace of any de-
scendants:

i. William Stratton, Marblehead, Mass. 1649-1658

ii. John Stratton, Maryland and Delaware 1672-1677

iii. Thomas Stratton, Maryland 1677-1686

iv. Thomas Stratton, Maryland 1729-1744

v. George Stratton, Maryland 1708-1718

vi. Anthony Stratton, of London 1697-1701

vii. William Stratton, of Bristol 1640-1652

viii. William Stratton, mariner 1695

What little has been found concerning these men is given here:

I. From 1649 to 1658 "Mr. William Stratton" lived in
Essex County, Mass. (as shown by deeds). He owned ten acres of
land, with "ye old mill and all utensils and implements there-un-to
pertaining," near Throgmorton's Cove, — in that part of Salem
which in 1649 became Marblehead. In 1657 he was in Marble-
head, and John Bradstreet was his attorney. In 1658 he had sold
his property and his name disappears from the records there.
Unavailing search has been made for any clew to his whereabouts
thereafter.*

II. In 1672 John Stratton was granted fifty acres in Dor-
chester County, Md., for "having transported himself into the
Province to inhabitant." And the name of John Stratton ap-
pears in 1672 in Queen Anne and Kent Counties, Md., and in
1677 in Newcastle County, Del. The records give nothing to
show that he became an inhabitant there, or any clew to his
residence elsewhere. (See Land Grants, Annapolis. Also, Court
Proceedings, Kent, Queen Anne and New Castle Counties.)

III. In 1677 Thomas Stratton "came into Maryland."
(Book of Land grants, patents, arrivals, at Annapolis.) f

* At this time many families were moving from that part of Massachusetts
to new colonies. Many settled in Connecticut, near Hartford. In 1641 John
Throgmorton with thirty-six English families from Massachusetts, settled on
the peninsula now known as Throgmortons, near Flushing, Long Island.
Ann Hutchinson came to Pellam Neck, just east of Throgmortons.

t "The book in which this is originally recorded is so nearly gone to decay
that it is impossible to decipher anything more of this entry. Many of the

In Annapolis wills, Liber C, 1682-1686, is recorded a long and
interesting will of Edmund Gibbons of Delaware River. His pos-
sessions were widely scattered, — lands in Delaware, Pennsylvania,
Carolina and New York; debts and concerns in the Barbadoes; a
debt of long standing in Virginia; cattle and horses on Long Island.
To "Brother Thomas Stratton and his wife" is bequeathed "the
plantation called Mulberry Swamp (not located) and what stock
there is on it, my new chest of goods at Briggs, and my chest and
goods at New Castle and a mare on Long Island." Thomas
Stratton is one of the executors of this will; Jonathan Naville of
Salem County, N. J., was another executor.

IV. Nothing more is found of a Thomas Stratton in Maryland
for forty-six years, and then (1729) a Thomas Stratton bought
land in Cecil County. Four years later, September 3, 1733, the
church records of St. Stephen Parish (Cecil County), give the
marriage of Thomas Stratton to Hannah Mannering (or Man-
waring) .

August 28, 1734, and March 30, 1739, Thomas Stratton and
wife Hannah sign deeds to two tracts of land in Cecil County, —
one called " Hispanola," the other "Bullen's Ridge." February,
1744, Thomas Stratton quitclaims to Martin Alexander of Cecil
County all rights to a large tract of land known as "Knowlwood."

This is a quaint old deed beginning:

"To all Christian people to whom these presents shall come.
Know ye that Thomas Stratton, of Kent County, in the Territory
of Pennsylvania (now Maryland) sendeth greetings. Know ye
that said Thomas Stratton for valuable considerations him there-
unto moving, hath remised, released and for ever quit-claim," etc.

No wife joins him in signing this deed, and then his name dis-
appears from the records there, and nothing more is known of
him. *

leaves of the book crumble into pieces upon being handled." — Kirk Brown,
Baltimore.

* Cecil County, Md., was taken from Baltimore County in 1673. It joins
New Castle County in Delaware. Salem County, N. J., is just across the river
in New Jersey. Kent County was established in 1640. The history of these
counties is closely connected. William Penn, it will be remembered, as well
as Lord Baltimore, claimed this vicinity to the Atlantic. Many Quakers
settled here. Strattons from Long Island settled in Salem County, N. J., aa
early, at least, as 1716.

V. In 1708 (November 1st) Jacob Neal of Kent County, Md.,
appoints "my good friend George Stratton" (or Strutton)
executor of his will.

In 1718 the will of George Stratton of Cecil County, gentleman,
is probated.* No sons are mentioned. His estate goes to his two
daughters, Mary Stratton and Elenor, wife of Cornelius Tobin
(Annapolis Wills, Liber J. C. & W. B.).

VI. In 1697-1699 Captain Anthony Stratton, mariner, of
London, had some claims in the province of Maryland. May 1,
1701, he is diseased, and Richard Branch of Talbott County, Md.,
enters caveat against any person administering on his estate.
(Annapolis Wills, Liber 18, Folio 43).

VII. William Stratton, mariner and merchant, of Bristol,
Eng., appears several times in American ports, bringing goods and
passengers. In 1644 he is master of the "Rain Bow," then in
port in Boston. In 1646-1648-1649 he has power of attorney to
transact business for parties in Boston, Charlestown and London.
In 1642 Hugh Jones, John Abbott and John Vinning came over
in "Mr. Stratton's ship." f

VIII. In November, 1696, a "Mr. William Stratton" pre-
sented a petition to the council and assembly at New Castle, Del.,
concerning the brigantine "Tryall," of which he was then master.
Associated with him was "Mr. E. Stratton." The same case was
in court in Boston, January, 1697-1698.

The brigantine was "taken in New Foundland waters." There
is no evidence that these mariners ever had a residence in America.

Could this have been the William Stratton, mariner and mer-
chant, of Bristol, who appeared on our shores fifty-five years
earlier?

* The administrators of this will are "held and firmly bound unto the Right
Hon. Charles Baltimore, in full and just sum of £100. sterling money of Eng-
land." The will is returned by Matheas Vanderhuyden, Deputy Commis-
sioner — who married a daughter of Augustus Herman, one of the most promi-
nent men of his day in Maryland. Herman and his family lived at " Bohemia
Manor," in Cecil County. Mannering (or Manwaring) Hall was near Bohemia
Landing.

t William Aspinwall, Recorder of Suffolk County, Mass., gives twelve
references to this William Stratton, of Bristol. See Aspinwall' s Records, pub.

"What is all this worth?" Abbe Roynal.

JOSEPH STRATTON OF JAMES CITY, VIRGINIA

(See Chart 1)

THE first Stratton to appear on Colonial records was Joseph
Stratton, 1 youngest son of Thomas Stratton of Shotley and
Ardleigh. (See Strattons of the Shotley Line.)* He came to Vir-
ginia in the spring of 1628 — the same season of the year in which
twenty-one years earlier the first little colony sailed up the beauti-
ful James River to the site of Jamestown. Doubtless Joseph
was as charmed as were they with this "land of flowers" in the
season of its beauty — the "Good Land," as the Indians called it.

By his father's will Joseph was to have "£100 at 21, and £5
yearly after his age of 14." In 1621 he seems to have been in
Shotley and by the will of his brother John was given " 10 shil-
lings to buy him a ring." In 1623 he was living in Harwich, just
across the River Stour from Shotley. In April, 1628, he came to
Plymouth and "sete saile for to goe to Virginia." He married
Joan , whether in England or Virginia is not yet known. f

When the House of Burgesses assembled, March 24, 1629, we
find Joseph Stratton a member of the same — less than a year after
his arrival in the colony.

He represented Nutmeg Quarter, Denheigh County. Two
years later he was again in Burgess, representing Nutmeg Quarter
and Waters Creek — (called Watts Creek on maps of to-day).

In 1635 he owned 500 acres of land at Nutmeg Quarter. One

* See pedigree and history of Shotley Strattons, in Part I of this Volume.

t The records at Shotley and Dedham show nothing of him later than 1621.
The registers at Harwich and Ardleigh have not been searched. One of them
may contain his marriage record — and possibly baptisms of his children. He
could not have been far from thirty-five years of age when he came to
America.

entry says this land was "granted him," another that he "bought
it from the attorney of Sir Frances Wyatt." (Virginia Land
Grants.)

On this land Joseph Stratton was apparently living in 1639, and
that same year George Stratton was appointed "Viewer of the
tobacco crops," (according to Act of Assembly, 1639), from Waters
Creek to the lower port of the County," while John Stratton was
appointed to the same office in Lower Norfolk County.* (Robin-
son's manuscript.)

In 1640 Joseph Stratton was still living in Virginia (Lechford's
Notes). No record of his death has been found, but on the 2d of
June, 1641, Joan Stratton, "relict of Joseph Stratton, late of
James City in Virginia" was commissioned by the prerogative
court of Canterbury, Eng., to administer his estate.

Joan was probably then in England, but whether she came
there after her husband's death, or before, or whether or not
she was ever in Virginia, is one of the still unsolved Stratton
problems.

All recognized sources of information in Virginia have been care-
fully searched for farther data, but without avail.

It is possible that he is the ancestor of the Strattons who appear
later in other Virginia counties.

Some stray item, from some unlooked for source, may yet come
to light to prove this — for the present nothing more is known of
Joseph Stratton of James City.

The then Denheigh County became later a part of James City,
Warwick and Charles City Counties. Nutmeg Quarter and
Waters Creek are in what is now Warwick County. The early
records of this county and of James City have been destroyed.
Very few records of this vicinity escaped the destructive fires of
1863 and 1865. Many were destroyed at earlier dates.

* For all other knowledge we have of this John Stratton of Lower Norfolk,
see footnote under Thomas Stratton of the Eastern shore. No other mention
has been found of this George Stratton, of Waters Creek. They may have
been sons of Joseph — if so it is hoped that future investigations may prove
it. So many of the old records of Virginia have been destroyed, however,
that there is little hope of. finding more there. Harwich and Ardleigh would
seem to be the most likely field for research. George and John were doubtless
at least twenty-one in 1639, hence they were b by Joseph came to James
City.

JOHN STRATTON OF SALEM, MASSACHUSETTS

(See Chart 1)

John Stratton, eldest son of John and Ann (Dearhaugh)
Stratton of Shotley, Eng., was born about 1606.* By his father's
will dated September 24, 1621, he was to have, at the age of 21,
certain rents from the Manor of Thurcarlton during his mother's
lifetime and the manor itself after her death. His father died in
Ardleigh, and was buried in Shotley, May 4, 1627.

Soon after his death Kirkton Manor was sold to meet the re-
quirements of the will. John Stratton, Jr., was one of the execu-
tors of this will. He must have come to America the follow-
ing year (1628), for in December, 1631, he was granted land in
Maine "in consideration for and in respect that he had lived
in New England these three years last past, and had expended
1000 li. in transporting cattle and maintaining of servants in their
imployment." (See Land Grant to John Stratton, in Part I.)
Of his movements during these three years we know nothing
more. In the latter part of 1631 he had returned to England
and was with his mother and sisters at Dedham. He was then
preparing to return to the New World, and it was probably dur-
ing this time that Thurcarlton Manor and the demesne lands
were sold.j

In December, 1631, he left England to take possession of the
land that had been granted him on the coast of Maine. Near the
coast he encountered a storm, and " lost valuable papers and goods
by the casting away of a boat." Lechford's Notes.

This grant to John Stratton consisted of "2000 acres on the
coast of Maine, in the vecinity of Ogunquit and Kennebunk rivers
on the south side of Cape Porpoise, and an island near the mouth
of the Saco River." The island is opposite Black Point, a little
west of Richmond Island, and about four miles from Old Orchard.
It is still known as "Stratton Island."

Many references are found in Maine historical works to "Mr.

* See pedigree and history of the Shotley Strattons, Part I in this Volume.

t In the Suffolk Ship Money Returns for the year 1639-40, the name Strat-
ton does not appear amongst the property holders of the parish of Shotley,
showing that the family had sold all their possessions there before that
date.

Stratton's" claim. Judge Southgate's History of Maine refers to
him as the first settler of Scarboro. The present city of Wells *
probably had its origin as "Stratton's plantation."

A manuscript written in 1660, and recently discovered in the
British Museum by Henry F. Waters, A. B., refers to "Wells, a
handsome well peopled place lying on both sides of a river, for
which place a patent was long since granted to one' Mr. Stratton.' "

Felts' Ecclesiastical History of New England says: "Thomas
Jenner (who had been settled at Weymouth, but now preaching
at Saco), replying to a letter of Winthrop, writes, ' I have been
solicited, both from the inhabitants of Stratton's plantation and
from those of Caskoe to be a means to help each of them to a godly
minister, therefore I do make bold to entreat your worship to do
your endeavor to furnish them both.' "

At this time immigrants were rushing into New England.
Applications for grants became numerous, and patents were
issued without sufficient regard to definite boundaries, which
later led to litigation. In a letter dated September 27, 1641,
Thomas Gorges (" Superintendant of the affairs of Sir Ferdinand
Gorges, Knight, Lord proprietor of the Province of Mayne")
mentions this claim of Stratton's, yet granted to others (July 14,
1643) land comprised within Stratton's grant — for which John
Stratton seems never to have obtained redress.

There is nothing to show that John Stratton remained long in
this vicinity. In January, 1636, he had been away from there for
some time.

March 28, 1636, "It is petitioned for Mr. Edward Godfrey
that an attachment might bee of one Brase Kettell, now in the
hands of Mr. Edward Godfrey which was belonging to Mr. John
Stratton of a debt dew now 3 years from Mr. Stratton to him."

Cook County Records, Alfred, Maine.

September 19, 1636, John Stratton was in Massachusetts Bay
Colony, and was "fined £10 for lending a gun to an Indian for
four days."

December 7, 1636, "John Stratton being fined £10 is remitted
to 10s if he goe to the Merrimack." Mass. Bay Colony Records.

Later, John Stratton, Goodman Woodward, with an Indian,

* The town records of Wells were burned in the destruction of the house of
Joseph Bowles in 1657.

and two others, were appointed "to lay out a line three miles
north of the northermost part of the Merrimac." This line eventu-
ally became the boundary between New Hampshire and Massa-
chusetts.

August 8, 1637, "Mr. Stratton requests a farm beyond Ipswich
Pond," near Salem. March 1, 1638, this farm was "laid out to
John Stratton" — 100 acres. The same year he was "admitted
inhabitant" of Charlestown and given permission to buy the
Withwell house.* He was granted other lands in Charlestown —
six different lots making 63 acres in all — with their rights. f The
records at Charlestown, however, give no evidence of his ever
having lived there, and he probably lived at Salem, where, in
1638, he was granted a house lot "there being two in the family."
At this time he is styled "a merchant" and Lechford records
several notes of John Stratton, merchant.!

That he was a man of standing in those early days is shown by
the character of the men with whom he was associated, as well as
by the extent of his business transactions. About this time finan-
cial misfortunes began to overtake him. The decision in England
seems to have been against him concerning a part, at least, of
his land grant in Maine. Large debts due him in Virginia he could

* Thomas Withwell was a teacher. He came to Charlestown 1635-6, and
was for several years the grammar teacher there.

t The location and boundaries of these lots are given in the Land Records
of Charlestown. One lot adjoined that of Rev. John Harvard, pastor of the
church at Charlestown, and first benefactor of Harvard University. Another
joined George Bunker, of the family who possessed Bunker Hill. This book of
Land Records began March 26, 1638. It may be that John Stratton possessed
lands there before that date.

% Promisory Note — John Stratton, gent, of Salem — Dec. 6, 1638.

This wittnesses yt I Jno Stratton of Salem, merchant, have
In 1641 there received of Edmund Angier of Cambridge, divers comodityes
had been Re- and wares amounting to the some of twentye pounds & six-
ceived on this teen shillings & eight pence to be payd the sayd Edmond
note one mare Angier or his assignees att or upon the five & twentye of
value twentye- November next after the date hereof,
pounds. Witness my hand this twenty-fifth of September, 1638.

Jo Stratton.
Payment to be made
in moneye, or cattle
as money, delivered at
the Governors farme.

not collect. Much of his property in Charlestown went into the
hands of assignees, and we find him conveying all his "interests
what-so-ever, in lands at Cape Porpus, to Richard Saltonstall,
Esq 1 and Hugh Peters, pastor in Salem, — the rest that is not sold
to Mathew Craddock, mercator, for £10." September 26, 1639,
"John Stratton, gent, of Salem, made a letter of assignment and
attorney to Mr. Richard Hutchinson, citizen and iron monger
of London." This letter was "signed, sealed and delivered in
the presence of John Winthrope Esq r Governor of the Jurisdic-
tion of the Massachusetts Bay Colony in New England."

LETTER OF ASSIGNMENT AND ATTORNEY

Know all men by these present that I John Stratton of Salem
in New England, gent, for or in part payment of 50£ w ch I owe
me to Valentine Hill of Boston in New England, mercer, doe
hereby give & grant unto the said Valentine Hill all that my lott
or farme granted & assigned to me by the Townsmen of Salem
aforsaid containing one hundred acres or there-abouts bee it more
or less lying and being in the villiage within the prescints of the
said town of Salem near the land of Mr. Hawthorne and St.
Davenport.

I say in part payment of so much of the said 50£ as the said
premises are well worth but if the premises are worth 50£ then in
full payment of the said 50£.

Then what in value the same shall come short of the said 50£
I or my heirs, executor or Ad mB shall and will pay & satisfy me unto
the said Hill his executor or ad ms as soon as the said Valentine
Hill shall receive news from England that the 50£ are not, and
cannot be received from John Harrison, gent, by vertue of one
letter of attorney made by me unto Richard Hutchinson, citizan
and iron-monger of London upon one bill or writing where-unto
Adam Winthrope was witness, according to appointment of the
said Valentine Hill & to the said Richard Hutchinson his executors
ad me & assignees according to the said letter of attorney then
this present gift & grant shall be voyd & of no force. And I further
covenent promise & grant to & with the said Valentine Hill that
I will pay all costs & charges to be expended in the endeavor to
recover said 50£ of said John Harrison if the same shall not be
recovered of him. Lechford's Notes.

Then we find him making this will :

"I, John Stratton, in the present letter of attorney mentioned,
doe hereby make and declare this my last will and testament
touching the suits and matters therein contained as followeth:

" My will is that if it please God that I depart this life before the
said suits and matters are finished that my attorneys, in the said
letter of attorney mentioned shall be my executors jointly and
severally to recover the premises. In testimony thereof I have
here-unto set my hand and seal."

To this will is affixed the following:

"And the said Governor do hereby certify that the above said
John Stratton did in my presence publish and declare the said
writing to be his last will and testament touching the premises
which I have granted also to testify under the said public seal."

Lechford's Notes.

July 19, 1641, John was still in Salem, where he, with his mother
and sisters,* made a letter of attorney to Captain Edward Gibbons
of Boston and Robert Stileman, merchant, of London, to receive
from John Thurston of Hockston, Eng., the legacies left him by
this last will and testament of Mrs. Mary Dearhaugh, late of Bar-
rington, County Suffolk, Eng. (See pedigree of Shotley Strattons.)
Two years later the town records of Salem show that John Stratton
is "absent" and Thomas West is to have the use of his 10 acre

* See pedigree of Shotley Strattons.

In 1637 the name of Ann Stratton, widow, appears on a list of church mem-
bers in Salem. She was still living there in July, 1642. After this date she may
have married again.

Elizabeth Stratton married John (son of Francis and Alice Thorndike of
Little Carlton, Eng.), of Beverly, Mass. After her death he returned to Eng-
land, where he died in 1662 and was buried in the east cloister of Westminister
Abbey, near his brother, Rev. Herbert Thorndike. Their son Paul Thorndike
lived in America, and has descendants here to-day.

Dorothy Stratton was in Salem, unmarried in 1640. Some have found rea-
sons for believing that she married William Pester of Ipswich about 1642.
He was son of William Pester, Esq. , of Barnard Castle, Eng.

William Stratton, brother of John of Salem, made preparations to come to
Virginia with his Uncle Joseph in 1628. He did not come at that time, how-
ever, and nothing has been found to show that he ever came to America. In
a deposition taken before Lechford in 1640-41, John Stratton of Salem,
testifies that he is the "only brother & heir & next of kin & creditor of William
Stratton, gent, of Ardleigh, in the County of Essex, Eng. deceased."

lot at Derby Fort Side on condition that he " sufficiently fence
it."

And then the name of John Stratton disappears from Salem
records, and all efforts to locate him elsewhere have utterly
failed. Nothing has been found to show that the "suits and mat-
ters" mentioned in his will were ever brought to trial.*

No mention has been found of any children of his, until twenty
years later, in 1660, when we find a daughter, Anne Stratton,
then the wife of William Lake, living in Salem in the house which
John Stratton had owned in 1639.

"William Lake the husband of Anne the daughter of Mr. John
Stratton, p'l't ag'st Thomas Cauly de'f 't, in an action of the case
for witholding or refusing to give possession of a pr'cell of land,
that was formerly the land of the said John Stratton mortgaged
to Major Gibbins, deceased, & by him given to Anne affores'd
now wife of the said William Lake to his great damage, ans: to
attachttdu:22: 9 ra0 70."

Case "8, 22, 9 m0 1670, Essex County Court," Salem, Mass.

"To the marshall of Salem, or his Deputy. You are required
in his Majesties name to attach the body or goods of Thomas
Caly Cauly & take bond of him to the value of forty pounds with
sufficient security for his appearance at the next County Court
held at Salem, then & there to answer the complaint of William
Lake, the husband of Anna the Daughter of Mr. John Stratton in
an action of the case for withholding or refusing to give possession
of a p r cell of land that was formerly the land of the said John
Stratton mortgaged to Maj or Gibbons deceased and by him given

* One of these suits (see Lechford's Notes) was against Joseph Stratton of
James City, to recover "debts due my father and my brother William in their
life time."

The petition (dated December, 1641) for this suit was referred by the Gov-
ernor of Massachusetts to the Governor of Virginia as follows: "To the Right
Woree Sir Francis Wyatt, Knight, Gov. & Capt. General of his Majesties
colony in Virginia, I, Thomas Dudley, Esq*, Governor of the jurisdiction of
Massachusetts Bay in N. E. doe hereby certify that I have received this present
certificate before written from John Endicott, Esq. and have at the request
of John Stratton herein named granted to exemplifie the same."

We know that Joseph Stratton died before June 2, 1641. The suit was
probably settled out of court — and perhaps in England.

to Anna aforesaid the now wife of ye said William Lake — to his
great damage & hereof make returne. 22, 9 mo 1670."

Essex County Court Files, 16: 119.

Record of this case— 29, 9 mo 1670, says: "Withdrawn."

In Essex County Deeds, 3, p. 106, is deed, dated 2, 12 mo 1670
of William Lake, Cooper, and wife Ann, of Salem, conveying 10
acres of land at Darby Fort Side, Marblehead, to Thomas Caly (or
Cauly), netmaker.*

William Lake died, and his widow married William Stevens
of Salem. The Registry of Deeds shows that on February 5, 1717,
Anne Stevens, widow, of Salem for the consideration of £20 con-
veys to Thomas Flint, Jr., "100 acres of land granted to my
honored father Mr. John Stratton Jan. 31, 1638." The deed says:
"I am ye True, Sole, & Lawful owner of ye above Bargained
premises, as I am heir, to my father Mr. John Stratton and Law-
fully possessed of ye same in my own proper Right as a good,
perfect, & absolute estate of inheritance."

Essex County Registry of Deeds, 33: 117.

This 100 acres, Anne Stevens had placed in the care of Thomas
Flint, March 12, 1692. It was on the north side of Ipswich River, and
was the same 100 acres " laid out " to John Stratton March 1, 1638.

Anne Stratton and William Lake were married about 1660.
They had four children born in Salem between 1662 and 1675. f
He died before June 26, 1680, and her second husband, William
Stevens, died before 1685. She died after 1718.

If John Stratton left other children the most diligent research
has thus far failed to bring to light any proof of the fact, or to
reveal any clew to his residence after July, 1641.

And so for the present we must leave him

"Hidden from all research
Among the depths of Time."

* It would appear, from the case being settled out of court, that both Lake
and Cauly had some claim on this ten acres. The bounds between Salem and
Marblehead were not well defined. (See William Stratton of Marblehead.)
Wm. Cauly died 1672, leaving wife, Mary, daughter of Benjamin Parmeter.

t Two of these children, Ann and William, died in childhood. One daughter,
Abigail Lake, married William Allen and had at least two children, who owned
the ancient Lake homestead in Salem in 1730. The other daughter, Mary
Lake, married Lewis Hunt of Salem, and had a daughter, Mary, who married
Paul Langdon and moved to Hopkinton.

"Antler"

" There are some persons who cannot discriminate between a taste for pedigree
and the pride of ancestry." — " English Heraldry," Charles Boutell.

BARTHOLOMEW and Caleb Stratton of Boston, were younger
sons of William Stratton of London and Tenterden, Eng.
(See Shrivenham Strattons.) At just what date they came to
America has not been ascertained. Bartholomew is first found in
Boston in 1658; Caleb in 1660. It is quite probable that each of
these young men left England soon after coming into his patri-
mony. (See Wm. Stratton's Will, Shrivenham Line.) They owned
real estate in Boston and were men of standing there as shown by
their business relations and the families into which they married.
In the records of them "Mr." is usually used, — a title of no little
distinction at that day. They seem to have formed no church
alliance in Boston; there are no baptismal records of their chil-
dren. Bartholomew married a Quaker, — granddaughter of the
eminent Ann Hutchinson. Caleb's wife was a daughter of Alex-
ander Adams, of Dorchester and Boston, and many of his early
descendants were Friends.

BARTHOLOMEW STRATTON l OF BOSTON

(See Chart A)

1. Bartholomew Stratton, 1 sixth son of William Stratton, of
Tenterden, Eng., was born January 12, 1627-28. At what
date he came to New England is not known. As early as 1658
we find him married and living in Boston. In 1662 be owned land
there — had owned it for some time — and his house and home lot
were valued at £60. Bartholomew, like several other early Strat-
tons, was a merchant mariner, and made several trips between
Boton and London, carrying goods and passengers. In 1665 he
was master of the ship "Unity" which had just come into port
at Boston from London.

In 1673 "Mr. Bartholomew Stratton" was employed by Mr.
Robert Marshall of Boston, to go to Piscataqua (now Portsmouth),

New Hampshire, to inspect a

/ft jr/O C*/£»f±j// vessel then being built there.

<<7 OJjt/Lo' V fWUP*. At this time he testified that

he was forty-six years old.
In 1678 he took the oath of
allegiance in Boston.

He married Eliphal Sanford, daughter of Governor John and
Bridget {Hutchinson) Sanford of Rhode Island.* His children
and grandchildren married into families well known in Boston.
He died January 9, 1686, and is buried at Copp's Hill.f The
stone marking his grave stands nearly in the center of the Hill
and is very well preserved. The same stone bears an inscription
to Bartholomew and one to his wife, Eliphal, showing that it was
erected after January 19, 1724, — the date of her death. On the
opposite side of the path, is a stone to the memory of their daughter,
Mrs. Bridget (Stratton) Ladd, who "Departed this life in the
79th year of her age," and near by, are stones marking the resting
places of three other members of the family.

Children: — Born in Boston.

+ 2 William, 2 b. 1658.

* John Sanford came to Boston from Alfred, Lincolnshire, Eng., in 1631.
He was among those who were "frozen out" of Boston on account of his
Religious belief. He married Bridget, daughter of the eminent Quakeress,
Anne Hutchinson. Among the legacies in his will, dated June, 1653, is this:
"To daughter Eliphal, £100, of which £60 to be hers at marriage and £40 at
her mother's marriage or death." In 1663, his widow, Bridget, now the wife
of Major William Phillips of Boston, took receipt from Bartholomew Stratton,
husband of her daughter Eliphal, for this legacy. Major Phillips was a man of
"many acres" in Maine. Saco, Maine, was headquarters of his land interests.

t Copp's Hill, near Christ Church, is the second oldest burying ground of
Boston, the oldest being King's Chapel Burying-ground on Tremont Street,
where the first interment was in 1630. Copp's Hill is the most interesting as
well as the largest of the ancient burying-grounds. For a long time it was
known as "Old North Burying-ground." The first interment here was in
1660. Here are the graves of Drs. Increase, Cotton and Samuel Mather,
Andrew Eliot, the father and grandfather of Governor Hutchinson, a sister
of Paul Revere, and many others with whom the early history of Boston has
made us familiar. This burying-ground was "ancient" at the time of the
Revolution, when many of the stones were demolished by the British
soldiers.

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-3 Ann, 2 b. Feb. 16, 1662; m. Tobias Atkins.*

-4 Bridget 2 , b. Jan. 28, 1664; m. Robert Ladd; d. in Boston,

Nov. 2, 1743.f
If there were other children, a most careful search in Boston
has failed to show any trace of them. Restcome Sanford, son of
Governor John Sanford, in his will, mentions, "my sister, Eliphal
Stratton and her three children."

2. William Stratton 2 (Bartholomew *) was born in Boston,
January 30, 1658. Very little is known of him before his mar-
riage. We know that his mother was a Quaker. She and her
mother, Bridget Sanford, were once arrested in Boston for persist-
ing in being Quakers, but remained true to their religious belief.
Drake, in his History of Boston, and other historians of early re-
ligious belief in New England, refer to them. William was

doubtless brought up a Quaker. He married Elizabeth ,

some time before 1685. In 1695 his name appears on a list of the
residents of Boston. In the will of Bridget Sanford-Phillips, date
1696, is this legacy: "To my grandson, William Stratton, one
thousand acres of land bought of Fluellin Sumtimus (an Indian)
to his heirs and assignees forever. Also one set of silver buttons,
also a gold ring." This land has not been located. No mention
is found in an} r of the churches of Boston, of the baptisms of any
of his children, until in 1698, when in the Second Church of Boston
occurs this entry: Elizabeth, wife of William Stratton, was ad-
mitted member of the church and on this same day her children
were baptized "in the right of their mother." — (Drs. Increase and

* Ann Stratton 2 married Tobias Atkins. Their children were Ann and
Eliphal. Ann Atkins married Samuel, son of Deacon Samuel Marshall, and
had issue: Samuel, Atkins, William, Katherine, Eliphal. Eunice — who married
Edward Ladd Sanders, and Ann — who married John Stamp, and died, a
widow, in Boston in 1786, aged 73 years, "only surviving grandchild of Ann
Atkins." Eliphal Atkins married Samuel Tulley (or Tilley) and had issue:
Samuel, Sarah, Elizabeth, William and Eliphal, who married Samuel Swift
(graduate of Harvard; died during the seige of Boston) and had issue: Sarah,
Ann and Eliphal. Samuel Tilley married second Elizabeth Foster.

t Bridget Stratton 2 married Robert Ladd; their children were Edward, and
Bridget, who married William Sanders and had issue: John; Bridget (died
1775); Hannah (died before 1775), and Edward Ladd, who married Eunice
Marshall as his second wife. See will of Ann Stratton (9).

Cotton Mather, ministers.) * At Copp's Hill, near the grave of
Bartholomew and Eliphal, stands a stone bearing this inscription:
" Here lies the body of Mrs. Elizabeth Stretton, wife of Mr. William
Stretton, deceased May 14th, 1727 in ye 64 yr."

No record of William's death has been found, nor any stone to
his memory.

Children : — Born in Boston.

- 5 Elizabeth, 3 d. unm., Feb. 15, 1720, aged 33 yrs., 9 mos.

Buried at Copp's Hill.

- 6 Eliphal, 3 d. April 15, 1717, aged 27 yrs.; buried at Copp's

Hill; m. 1st (in Second Church by Cotton Mather)
Samuel Hopkins; 2d Ebenezer Graves.

- 7 William, 3 b. Feb. 1, 1693; bapt. Jan. 19, 1698,— after

which nothing is known concerning him.t

- 8 Bridget, 3 b. Jan. 19, 1694; d. in Boston April 27, 1769,

unm.

- 9 Ann, 3 d. in Boston, unm., Nov. 22, 1778, aged 82 yrs.

(See her will below.)
-10 John, 3 bapt. Jan. 19, 1698. (So says unpublished manu-
script in Gen. and Hist. Rooms, Boston.) Nothing
more is known of him.
The published records of the Second Church give the baptism
of four of these children, — Elizabeth, Eliphal, William and Ann, —
January 19, 1698, the same day that their mother was admitted

* Second Church, Boston, was organized about 1649, and a building was
erected the following year, which was burned in 1676, and rebuilt in 1678.
It was in this house of worship that the children of Elizabeth Stratton were
baptized. This building was destroyed by the British soldiers in 1775. The
building now occupied by the Society of the old Second Church is on Boylston
Street. The communion-service of the Church contains some very old and
highly interesting pieces. In the first building there were some pews that had
special doors leading to the street.

From Boston records we learn that in 1700 "the tax of Widow Stratton was
abated." It is suggested that William 2 died 1697-98, and that Elizabeth —
perhaps having been brought up in the Second Church — returned to the church
of her youth with her children. Her ancestry has not been traced. She was
born about 1665. A study of the Elizabeths born in Boston 1664 to 1666,
would be interesting and might prove her parentage.

f Unless this one item refers to him: In 1615 a William Stratton, barber, is
defendant, in Boston, in a case of debt. Barber then meant Sergeon, and as-
sisted the physician in bleeding patients, as was the old-time custom.

to membership. Unpublished records say that John was baptized
on same date. Little Bridget was then four years old; she must
have been baptized at the same time, but in some way her name
was left off the list. The dates of birth, marriage and death given
here are from Boston town records, and Copp's Hill gravestones.
Bridget and Ann were admitted to the Second Church in 1725,
and were living together in Boston in 1757, when their signatures

appear on a mortgage. Bridget died in 1769. In 1776 Ann
Stratton's "Mansion House" on Green Street, near Bowdoin
Square, was valued at £500,* and she "owned a pew in Rev.
Mr. Howard's church." This was the year in which her will was
made, and it bears her signature in her eightieth year.

WILL OF ANN STRATTON 3

1776

In the Name of God Amen. I Ann Stratton of Boston, in the
County of Suffolk and State of Massachusetts-Bay. Spinster, being
Sick in Body but through the Divine Goodness of Sound Disposing
Mind and Memory, and not knowing how soon it may please God
to call me out of this World Do make and Ordain this my last
Will and Testament, as follows: That is to say principally and
First of all I Recommend my Soul into the hand of the Merciful
God who gave it to me and my Body I Commit to the Earth for a
Decent Burial in hopes of a Glorious Resurrection to Eternal Life
through the alone Merits of my Blessed Lord and Saviour Jesus
Christ who himself arose from the Dead. And as for my worldly
estate which it hath pleased God to Bless me with after my Just

* This house and lot was conveyed, Aug., 1726, from John Sanford to
Elizabeth Stratton, and from her descended to Ann. From Ed. Ladd Sanders
it descended to his daughter Susanna, who married Isaac Smith. She was
"sole heir" to her father. In 1810 she conveyed the property to Jonas Coo-
lidge, reserving to Eliphal Swift "the front chamber for her natural life."

Debts and Funeral Charges are paid I dispose thereof as follows.

Vizt:—

Infinis — I give to my kinswoman Ann Stamp of sd Boston, Widow
my Silver Tankard, Markt s A. M., my Silver Porringer also
of the same mark and another Silver Porringer marked B. A.
S., my wrought Silver Cup marked E. S. on one side and
W. H. on the other side, and also my Blew Damask Gown,
forever.

Item. I Give to my Kinswoman, Eliphall Swift of said Boston,
Spinster, the Sole use and Improvements of the Front Cham-
bers in my Mansion House in Cambridge Street, Note —
This property was in Green Street, so says Deeds, in sd Bos-
ton during her Natural Life, and necessary Furniture for
the said Chamber. I also Give her Thirty Pounds Lawful
Money, my Wearing Linen, my Green Tabby Gown and Velvet
Cloak, A Silver Salver, Two Silver Salts and Silver Pepper
Box, Two Silver Porringers, One Silver Table Spoon, Two
Silver Tea Spoons, and a Large Gold Ring marked E. M.,
forever.

Item. I give to Elizabeth Foster of Tilsbury or Tisbury, in Mar-
tha's Vine Yard, in sd State, my Blue Cloth Riding Hood,
my wrought Cup markt E. M. and also a Stone Ring,
forever.

Item. I give to my Friend and Kinsman, Edward Ladd
Sanders of sd Boston, Gentn., a Large Silver Tankard,
forever.*

Item. All the Remainder of my Plate and Wearing Apparel I give
to the sd Ann Stamp and my Kinswoman Eunice Marshall, sd
Boston; Spinster, in Equal Shares, forever.

Item. I Give, Devise and Bequeath All my Right, Title and In-
terest in and to certain Lands situated in the Countys of
York, Cumberland and Lincoln in the Eastern Parts of the

* One cannot help wondering if any of these silver cups, tankards, porrin-
gers, spoons and rings are still in existence. It is possible that some collection
of Colonial relics in Boston may contain one or more of them. The writer
would like to possess the Green Tabby Gown and Blue Cloth Riding Hood for-
ever! It's a pity that her "Good Friend," Edward Ladd Sanders (son of her
cousin Bridget Stratton Sanders) did not place a stone at Copp's Hill in
memory of his generous donor.

State unto the sd Edward Ladd Sanders, Ann Stamp and
Eunice Marshall, their heirs and assigns in equal shares,
forever.

Item. I Give, Devise and Bequeath unto the sd Edward Ladd
Sanders and the said Eunice Marshall the Whole of my Real
and Personal Estates in sd Boston and Elsewhere not herein
before Deposed of to be Enjoyed by them, their heirs and
assigns in Equal Shares, forever. The said Eliphall Swift,
however, to have the Improvement of the Front Chamber of
my sd Dwelling House during her Natural Life as afore
expresst.

Item. My Will is that my Executor Pay the aforementioned
Legacys to the Respective Legatees in Twelve Months after
my Decease.

Lastly, I Do Constitute and Appoint my Good Friend the sd

Edward Ladd Sanders to be the Sole Executor of this my

Last Will and Testament, hereby Revoking All Wills and

Testaments by me at any time heretofore made.

In Witness whereof I the said Ann Stratton have hereunto set

my hand and Seal this Second day of December Anno Domini One

Thousand Seven hundred and Seventy Six.

Cflvyfl flfiktkrn--

This will of Ann Stratton is the last mention we have of this
family. It will be noticed that her will names no Strattons; all
her beneficiaries are descendants of her father's sisters. Some
find in this a strong reason for believing that her brothers died
without issue. Her sisters, we know, left no descendants. On
the other hand, if her brothers, William and John, had died in
Boston it is rather strange there is no record of it. If they lived
to manhood they must have inherited lands from their father's
estate. A thorough study of land titles might locate these lands,
and give a clew to their later residence. It may be that some of
the untraced Strattons in the United States to-day are descended
from this interesting line.

CALEB STRATTON OF BOSTON

(See Chart B)

1. Caleb Stratton, 1 brother of Bartholomew, was baptized
at St. Leonard's, Eastcheap, London, June 10, 1635. (See Shriven-
ham Strattons.) By his father's will, 1647, he was to have £110
at 23 years of age. We know nothing more of him until 1660,
when he is in Boston and is styled "a mariner." December 12,
1661, he bought a house and lot of William Hudson, in Boston.
July 4, 1662, John Sunderland, attorney for Caleb Stratton, sold
this property and Caleb, "having just returned from ye voyage"
signed the deed. Some time before 1662 he married Mary Adams,
daughter of Alexander and Mary (Coffin) Adams* In 1665 he
seems to be living in Hingham where the birth of his son John is
recorded, but in 1675 he is living in Boston. In 1684 his name
appears in the division of the estate of his father-in-law, Alexander
Adams, and this is the last record we have of him. No will, or
any record of his death has been found. His widow died in Bos-
ton, February 3, 1698.
Children:

-2 Elizabeth, 2 b. in Boston, Feb. 24, 1665; m. 1st William
Jarvis, 2d Solomon Townsend; d. in 1713; buried at
Copp's Hill.
-3 John, 2 b. in Hingham, Mass., July 6, 1670. Birth recorded
in Hingham town records. No other mention of him has
been found.
-4 Samuel, 2 b. March 3, 1675 (so recorded in the published

town records of Boston). f
-5 William, 2 record of whose birth has not been found.

* Alexander Adams was of Dorchester and Boston. He was a shipwright.
His wife was a sister of Tristram Coffin, one of the nine original purchasers of
the island of Nantucket. In the settlement of Adams estate in 1684, his son-
in-law, Caleb Stratton, was to have the homestead. Mary Adams, wife of
Caleb Stratton, was born Jan. 19, 1641, in Boston.

t It may be that this name in the Boston records is an error, and that the
son born March 3, 1675, was not Samuel, but William. No other mention of
Samuel has been found. Descendants of William have been traced to the
present generation. They claim that March 3, 1675, was the birthday of
William. The birth of William is not recorded in Boston, but according to
Boston deeds William was "only son" of Caleb Stratton in 1703.

5. William Stratton 2 (Caleb *) was "only son of Caleb Strat-
ton, deceased, and Mary his wife," October 26, 1703. At this date
he conveys two-thirds of the homestead and land to Soloman
Townsand — "where Townsand now lives, estate of Caleb and
Mary Stratton, from their father Alexander Adams; " also two-
thirds of " house-hold stuff;" value £48. Suff. Co. Deeds.

This homestead was "43 feet frontage on Lane to North Bat-
tery." As William was "only son" and possessed two-thirds of
his father's estate, it is inferred that his brother (or brothers) died
before 1703, without issue. His sister, Elizabeth Townsand,
probably owned the remaining one-third. William's name does
not again appear in Boston. He was evidently preparing to leave
there when he sold his two-thirds of "home-stead and house-hold
stuff." We next find him living in Nantucket in 1708, having
previously married Susanna Cartwright, daughter of Edward and
Elizabeth (Trott) Cartwright* Their home was in the northern
part of the town of Nantucket (the part then called "Sherburn")
near where the Jethro Coffin House still stands, — built in 1686.
In 1716 the town voted to "build a town house on the hill be-
tween William Stratton's and George Burke's.

West of No-Bottom Pond is a winding passway, connecting
Duke and Westchester Streets. At the southeast corner of its
junction with Westchester Street stood William Stratton's house.
It was on the land given him by deed of gift from James Coffin in
1712.

DEED TO WILLIAM STRATTON FROM JAMES COFFIN

Be it known to all men by these presents that I James Coffin
of the Island of Nantucket in the province of the Massachusetts
bay in New England Esqr being willing to promote the good and
welfare of my kinsman William Stratton of the sd Island of Nan-
tucket and for divers other considerations me thereunto moving
have given granted infeoffed conveyed and confirmed and do
by these presents fully freely and absolutely give grant infeoffed
Convey and Confirm unto the said William Stratton half an acre
of land on which his house now stands which I had of William

* Susanna Cartwright was born in 1679. The record of her marriage to
William Stratton has not been found. It was probably in 1707-8.

Worth Esqr as by his grant bearing date the fourth day of Aprill
in the year 1712 may appear the first bound of the sd land be-
ginning at the Swamp to the Southward of the sd Stratton house
and running Nine Rods North Northwest Six Rods to the East-
ward of the house from thence West Southwest Nine Rods till it
comes about one Rod and a half to the Westward of the house
from thence South Southeast to the Swamp and along the Swamp
to the first bound To have & To hold the sd half acre of land as
above bounded to him the sd William Stratton his heirs and as-
signs to his and their proper use and benefit forever So that the
said William Stratton his heirs and assigns may have hold use
occupy possess and Injoy the sd land for ever without any let
hindrance or molestation by me the sd James Coffin or my heirs
or by any other person by our means consent or procurement.
In Witness Whereof I the sd James Coffin have hereunto set my
hand and seal this fifth day of Aprill anno que Dom 1712.

Signed Sealed and delivered in James Coffin (Seal)

the presence of us

Eleazer Folger Junr
Jonathan Coffin

Nantucket County Records of Deeds.

In another deed, dated "sixth day of the tenth month of the
fifth year of the Reign of George of Great Britain, King, Annoque
Domini 1718," Jethro Starbuck conveys "one quarter of an acre
of land with dwelling house thereon" to William Stratton, Block-
maker.

William Stratton was a Friend. The first "Monthly Meeting"
on the Island was in 1708, and the first meetinghouse was on
the lot adjoining his home lot.

He died August 28, 1740, intestate.

Children: — Born in Nantucket*

* In 1641 the island of Nantucket was conveyed to Thomas Mayhew by
James Forsett, agent to the Earl of Sterling. On July 2, 1659, Mayhew con-
veyed to nine purchasers all his right to the island for "thirty pounds of cur-
rent money and two Beaver hats, one for myself and one for my wife."

For the Nantucket Strattons the records of the Island have been searched ,
including Dr. Folger's manuscripts, which are considered authority on early
Nantucket families.

+ 6 Caleb, 3 b. 1708; d. 1786.

- 7 Mary, 3 b. Aug. 1, 1710; d. 1781; m. Thomas Moore.

- 8 Elizabeth, 3 b. Aug. 14, 1712; d. Jan. 6, 1780; m. Daniel

Coffin of Boston (second wife).

- 9 Deborah, 3 b. Jan. 21, 1714; d. 1769; m. John Coker,

July 31, 1754.
-10 Mariam, 3 b. Feb. 11, 1717; d. 1791; m. James Perry.
-11 Hannah, 3 (twin) b. Feb. 11, 1717; m. John Sherman of

Poungunsett.
-12 John, 3 b. Sept, 19, 1720; "died unmarried." (Folger.)

6. Caleb Stratton 3 (William, 2 Caleb *), was born October 3,
1708, and lived and died in his native town, Nantucket. He was
a Quaker, as were many of his descendants. On the "31 8t of the
11 th month (called January) 1728-9" he married Lois Odar,
daughter of Anthony and Sarah Odar. He is called "sole adminis-
trater" of his father's estate, in a deed in which "Caleb Stratton,
chare-maker, in consideration of the sum of one hundred & eighty-
five pounds money of the old tenor," conveys to Thomas Brock
"the dwelling house and land that was lately my father's William
Stratton." This deed is dated "fifteenth day of April in the
Nineteenth year of the Reign of our Sovereign lord George the
Second by the Grace of God King of Great Brittain, France &
Ireland Defender of the faith &c anno que Domini 1746." This
was the property which William Stratton bought of Jethro Star-
buck in 1718. In 1752 Caleb Stratton and wife Lois and others,
convey to David Joy "one Cow common of the Island of Nan-
tucket" which was conveyed to them by their uncle Eleazer.
(Folger.) By another long and interesting deed (Book 7, p. 15,
Nantucket Deeds), Jonathan Small, an Indian, conveys to Caleb
Stratton, chairmaker, "a certain dwelling house at or Neare a
place called Quais," in Nantucket.

Lois Stratton died May 11, 1755, and Caleb married, 2d, Naomi
Long, who survived him and was living in 1800.

Caleb died December 6, 1786. He left no will.

Children: — Born in Nantucket.

-13 Eunice, 4 b. Nov. 9, 1729; d. unm.

+ 14 Odar, 4 b. 1731.

+ 15 William, 4 b. 1733.

-16 Susanna, 4 b. Mar. 19, 1735.

+ 17 Benjamin, 4 b. 1737; d. 1810.

+ 18 Christopher, 4 b. 1738; d. 1793.

+ 19 Anthony, 4 b. 1740.

-20 John, 4 b. Jan. 2, 1742; d. at sea — so says the Friends'

Records. He was probably unmarried.
+21 Caleb, 4 b. 1745.
-22 Sarah, 4 b. Apr. 15, 1747; d. Dec. 25, 1770; m. Samuel

Stanton, Jr., in 1766.
+ 23 Philip, 4 b. 1749.

14. Odar Stratton 4 (Caleb* William, 2 Caleb 1 ), born July 27,
1731; married Margaret Gwinn, daughter of David Gwinn of
Salem. She was born July 23, 1729. Folger says they had a
daughter, Judith, 5 (24) born July 5, 1757. Friends' Records say
he was "disowned Nov. 26, 1774." Nothing more has been
found concerning him.

15. William Stratton 4 (Caleb, 3 William, 2 Caleb 1 ), was born
August 10, 1733. He married Hepsabeth Russell, daughter of
David Russell, of Nantucket (date of marriage not found). On the
13th of April, 1787, William Stratton, mariner, deeded to Chris-
topher Stratton "all Right, Title, Interest, Estate Claim & De-
mands I have on the Island of Nantucket."

Records at Nantucket give nothing more concerning him.
Friends' Records say that he "Died abroad" but give no date.
(See footnote under William Stratton of Winsor.) A family
record says that his wife Hepsabeth died September 10, 1793,
and that they had a son William 5 (25), who married Susan Sher-
man. Further information concerning him is very much de-
sired.

17. Benjamin Stratton 4 (Caleb, 3 William, 2 Caleb 1 ), born
April 2, 1737; married Judith Macy, December 16, 1758. She
was a daughter of Robert and Abigail Macy and a descendant of
Thomas Macy, one of the nine "first settlers" of Nantucket.
Benjamin was a Friend and, by trade, a cooper.

He owned considerable property on the Island. One tract of
land was deeded him by Robert and Abigail Macy "in considera-
tion of the Love, Good Will, and Neaturell afection we have and

bear unto our son-in-law Benjamin Stratton." In November,
1775, he removed to Nine Partners, near Troy, N. Y. His will is
recorded in New York City. He died May 3, 1810.
Children: — Born in Nantucket.
-26 Eunice, 5 b. Oct. 18, 1759; m. 1st, Dr. S. Tripp; 2d, James

Ketchem.
-27 Elizabeth, 5 b. Apr. 21, 1762; d. in Hudson, N. Y., unm.,
aged 74 years. Her will names fourteen legatees, most
of them children of her brothers.
+ 28 Benjamin, 5 b. 1764. See Vol. II.
-29 Peter, 5 d. in infancy.
-30 Lydia, 5 b. Aug. 27, 1769; m. Enos Alley of Long Island.

See Chart B.
+ 31 Latham, 5 b. 1775; d. 1849. See Vol. II.

18. Christopher Stratton 4 {Caleb, 4 William, 2 Caleb '), born
April 22, 1738, married Abigail Harris, daughter of John and Abi-
gail Harris. He died October 20, 1793. In his will {Probate
Records, Nantucket) he gave all his real and personal estate to
his wife during life, with full power to sell it should she need
it for her support. Only one child is mentioned in the will — a
daughter Hepsabeth Stratton, then deceased. At his wife's death
the property was to go to his grandsons, Edward Freeman Strat-
ton and Thomas Blin Harris. His wife disposed of the real
estate, in 1808, to Paul and Christopher Mitchell.

Children:

— 32 Hepsabeth, 5 d. before 1793, mentioned in father's will.

— 33 John, 5 name found on a family record.

— 34 Ruben, 5 name found on a family record.

Any further data concerning this family would be greatly
appreciated.

19. Anthony Stratton 4 {Caleb? William, 2 Caleb 1 ) was born
October 23, 1730. He married Hannah Jones, who was born
July 7, 1744. Friends' Records say he was "desowned Feb. 30,
1771;" probably for marrying out of the Society. Anthony
Stratton, cordwainer, and wife Hannah sold a house and lot in
Nantucket, March 19, 1772, after which their names do not appear
there. Folger says they had no children. It is thought that they
moved to Rhode Island, and were there during the Revolution.

98 A Book of Strattons

21. Caleb Stratton 4 (Caleb, , 3 William, 2 Caleb 1 ), born April 27,
1745; married Charity Chapman of Rhode Island. He died on
board a vessel from London, April 11, 1769. Folger says he had a
son Obed 5 (35), born December 15, 1767, who married Elizabeth
Wyler, and died without issue.

23. Philip Stratton 4 (Caleb , 3 William, 2 Caleb *) was born
May 2, 1749. He married Lucretia (Clark), daughter of Paul
Paddock, and widow of Seth Clark. Friends' Records says that he
moved to Nine Partners, N. Y., February 25, 1775. Folger's
manuscript says he had no children.

From pages 95-98 it will be seen that of the eight sons of Caleb
Stratton 3 of Nantucket, all of whom lived to manhood, the de-
scendants of only one, Benjamin, 4 have been traced. The com-
piler has found several families of Strattons having traditional
knowledge of descent from the Nantucket Strattons, but no au-
thentic records have been found showing from which son they
are descended. The descendants of Benjamin 4 have in their
possession an old family Bible containing entries which have
helped materially in completing the records of that branch. The
compiler has hoped — and is still hoping — to find data which shall
prove to be the missing links needed to complete the records of
other branches of this line — a line whose ancestry goes back to
1530 in the old village of Shrivenham.

"Our generation passeth away and another generation cometh."

ECCLESIASTES i, 4.

THE town of Easthampton, on the eastern part of Long Island,
was settled in 1649. The territory was bought by the govern-
ors of the colonies of New Haven and Connecticut, from the Mon-
tauk Indians and assigned to the early settlers. Among the nine
"first settlers" appears the name of John Stratton. About a year
later he was joined by his brother Richard. The two men were
prominent among the colonists. Their names appear continually
on the town records.

In all the interests and enterprises of the town in its early days
they had a part. The home lots of both Richard and John were
on the northwest side of the main street, which ran parallel with
the coast. Besides these, they owned many other lots of land,
some by allotment, in common with other proprietors; others by
purchase.* These lands were divided among their children, who
in turn continued the division, or sold them to seek homes in other
sections. Their sons and daughters married into other families of
standing and prominence. The names James, Hedges, Hand,
Conkling, Gardener, Osborne, Hull, Huntting, Mulford and Fithian
are all well known in the colonial history of Long Island and
Connecticut, and with all of them were the early Easthampton
Strattons connected by marriage.

The proprietors early attached an importance to the keeping of
a record of their "proceedings" and from these faithfully kept
records we learn to-day much of the daily life of our ancestors.!

* For allotments of land to Richard and John Stratton, see Easthampton
Town Records, Vol. II, pages 58-65.

t The first Town Clerk (1650) was Thomas Talmage (ancestor of DeWitt
Talmage, D. D.) and the oath administered reads thus:

"In being chosen recorder for the present yeare doe here sware by ye Great
and living God yt you will at al times during this yeare for whc you are chosen
labour with care and contiontse to record such things as shall be lawfully

The luxuriant wild grasses of the island led the early colonists
to give much attention to cattle raising and the records contain
many "ear-marks" by which the cattle of the various owners were
known; while many sheep were herded on the lands held as "com-
monage." *

" A True discoverie of the eare markes of every mans ppr marke
of their cattell as ffolloweth: viz: Richard Stratton his marke is
cropt in the right eare & halfe the fore part of the left eare cut off.

" John Stratton his marke is cropt in left eare & 2 slits Downe
the same eare."

E. H. Records.

There was much fishing along the coast, and during the long
winter months many engaged in whaling, going on long cruises —
from which some never returned. The Strattons it seems were
more cautious and went to sea by proxy.

"Bee it known to all men by these presents that I harry Indian
and Heeler indian boath of us doe firmly bind and engage our selves
to goe to sea for John Stratton senior and John Stratton junior
the next winter following the date here of, to kill wheals and to
have halfe they gett boath in oyle and boane and to attend all
seasons and to doe their labor at sea and on shoar and to save the
craft: in witness hereof wee doe sett to our hands and seals the
day and year above written.

" Harry Indian his N marke
" Hecler Indian his y marke
" Signed and sealed in the presents of us

" Joseph Stratton

" Cornelius Stratton March 18, 1680-81.

acted and ordained by voate also to carefully keepe such things as shall be
committed to your trust so near as you can so help you God."

* Memorandam — this agreement made between the owners of ye sheep of
this town of Easthampton & John Stratton as followeth: That John Stratton
hath agreed that his sonne Steven shall keepe ye sheep & will do his best en-
deavor that they goe fourth to keeping the present yeare for which the owners
of the sheepe doe agree to give to ye sd John Stratton seven shillings six pence
by ye week in good pay viz. in wheat part, if it be to be had & Indian Corn,
porke or oyle & he shall have of the owners proportionable to the sheep every
one hath 30 lbs. of wool. Indian corn to be paid at 3 Is by the bushel & wheat
att 4ss 6d his tyme beginning April 13, 1669.

Book B, page 77, Easthampton Records.

"Aug. 12, 1683. This Indenture is recorded between Richard
Stratton and John Indian son of Wobberton in which said John
doth bind himselfe a servant unto ye said Richard Stratton and
with him to serve & dwell after the manner of such an apprentice
for a term of two years, and to faithfully serve and his commands
obey in all places & at all times, as a true & faithful servante ought
to doe, & to behave himselfe in Word and deede. For this the said
Richard doth engage to pay ye sd John indian 12 pounds in
money att, or before the end of the term & to find ye said John
sufficient meate and drink. And if ye said John doth goe to sea
with consent of Richard Stratton then hee to goe upon halfe
share ye said Richard to find boate & craft sutable for a halfe
share."

From Easthampton Town Records.

One cannot help wondering if John Indian kept his part of this
contract and "behaved himselfe in Word & deede as a faithful
servante ought to doe."

The following, also, is a fine specimen of the original spelling and
quaint composition of those early records:

"March the 22th 1671-72 Att a Town metinge it is agreed and
Concluded between the Towne being one partie and Richard
Stretton the other ptie that the sd Richard is to fence the highway
that goeth to the Xorwest that is the fence that lyeth nexte alonge
by his land well and sufficient acordinge as he shall see cause for
the securinge of himselfe from all Damage from Cattell according
to law and this to be done from time to time and att all times for-
ever. And in consideration of the same The Towne doth give and
grant unto the aforesaid Richard Stretton eight acres of land to bee
laid out either all the reare of the second lott belonginge to the
aforesaid Richard bounded by Thomas Talmage west and Thomas
Osburne Junior east or else by another second lott belonginge to
the said Richard Stratten which is the westernmost or last lott upon
that Division either to have eight acres of land upon the side of
this aforesaid lott or else in the other place above specified which
the aforesaid Richard Stratten shall see best for himselfe uppon
the sight and vew thereof. These eight acres of land is granted
unto the aforesaid Richard Stratton by the Town forever upon
Consideration of the premises above specified."

RICHARD STRATTON OF EASTHAMPTON

(See Chart C)

1. Richard Stratton appears first on Easthampton records
in 1651.* In 1643 his name is on the "whale list" at Southamp-
ton, L. I. Nothing has been found concerning him between
these two dates. f He married Elizabeth Edwards, daughter
of William Edwards. % His will (a copy of which is in the surrogate
office in New York City) is dated April 7, 1674 and proved June,
1676, before the Court of Sessions held in Southold, L. I. He died
before August 24, 1675, at which date an inventory of his estate
was made.

The town did not record vital statistics. The church records of
births, deaths and marriages began in 1697, with Rev. Nathaniel
Huntting's pastorate.

WILL OF RICHARD STRATTON 1

The last will and testament of me, Richard Stratton Sen'r of
Easthampton, being in my perfect mind and understanding:
First. I give my soule to God who gave it and my body to ye Dust
from whence it came, and mine estate as followeth:

1 — To my eldest sonne, Richard, I give my two six acres home
lotts of the 2 nd Division by in next Thos. Osburn, jr. on ye south
and to Lieut. Talmage up on the north.

2 — To my second sonne, Thomas, I give six acres of land out of
my home lott att the rear of its addition, the whole breadth,
fronting upon the lane one side and William Ffithean on the other
side, and I also give him my six acre lott wich belonged to my one
allott'nt lying the farthest lott beyond Abraham Hauks.

3 — I give all my land both East and West to my two sonnes
above said to be equally divided between them after the decease
of my wife Elizabeth Stretton excepting my land at the little
plaine and six acres more lying at the two mile hollow.

* For his birth and ancestry see Shrivenham Strattons, this Volume.

t It seems very probable that he spent these six years in Southampton.
The records of Southampton during this period are not at all complete.

X William Edwards came to Taunton, Mass., as early as 1643, moved from
there to Lynn and settled at Easthampton in 1649-50.

4 — I give to my four sonnes all the meddow belonging to me and
all the commonage and what land may be laid out to me hereafter
with all privilege belonging to the said land to be equally divided
amongst them.

5 — I give my home lotts and my houseing and buildings upon
the same to my wife, Elizabeth, during her life and after her
deceass to my two youngest sons, Isaac and Benjamin together
with all my land att the little plaine and my six acres of land neer
the two mile hollow. My will is also that if any of my sonnes die
without issue my other children surviving shall have their part
of land afore's'd shall have it equally amongst them.

6 — I give to my daughter Elizabeth six pounds to be paid her
by my executrix (whom I appoint to be my wife Elizabeth) out
of my moveable estate when she comes of age or if she lives to be
married to be then paid her.

7 — I give to my oldest sonne Richard thirty pounds to be paid
him by my executrix when he comes att age of 21 years.

8 — The overseers of my will I desire to be my father-in-law
Will'm Edwards and my brother, John Stretton Sen'r.

Witness my hand and seal

Richard Stretton.

After Richard's death, his widow, Elizabeth, married Thomas
Baker of Easthampton and died a widow, January 5, 1704-5.
Children:

+ 2 Richard, 2 b. about 1655.
+ 3 Thomas, 2 d. 1704.
+ 4 Isaac, 2 m. in Easthampton, 1703.
-5 Elizabeth, 2 mentioned in her father's will, after which

nothing is known of her.
+6 Benjamin, 2 d. in New Jersey in 1716.

2. Richard Stratton 2 (Richard a ) was not of age at the date
of his father's will in 1674; he was of age, however, at the time
of his mother's second marriage in 1678, — hence was born be-
tween 1653 and 1657. He inherited lands and money from his
father's estate in Easthampton.

His name appears from time to time on the records of his
native town, where he lived and died. He (probably) married
(as early at least as 1580) Sarah Sturges, daughter of John

Sturges of Fairfield, Conn.,* who in his will dated March 2, 1697,
mentions his "Son-in-law, Richard Stratton and his five children

by wife Sarah, my daughter." Later he married Mary ,

who was his widow in 1602. He died June 7, 1697, as shown by
the church records.
Children:

- 7 Solomon, 3 b. 1680-1685.

- 8 David, 3 b.

- 9 Abigail, 3 m. Daniel Burr, Nov. 7, 1705.

-10 Hannah, 3 m. Thomas Chatfield, May 26, 1707.

-11 Deborah, 3 m. Eliakim Conkling, July 22, 1708.

+ 12 Richard, 3 probably settled in Rehoboth, Mass.

Solomon (7) gave quitclaim deed, in 1706, to certain lands which
he had inherited as eldest son. August 9, 1714, David (8) deeded
to Thomas Chatfield and Samuel Mulford all the lands and privi-
leges which he had "received by my father Richard Stratton's
will except the eight acres willed to me at the end of the home
lotts he gave to my brothers Solomon and Richard." f Solomon,
by a note on the margin of the deed, admitted David's right to
make the deed. Their names then disappear from the records at
Easthampton and nothing more is known of them.

QUITCLAIM DEED

Know all men by these presents that I Solomon Stretton, eldest
son and heir unto Richard Stretton deceased who was eldest son
unto Richard Stretton formaly of Easthampton deceased Do
for myself and my heirs forever quit all manner of claim of my
right title or interest in or unto all or any of the lands meadows
and privileges of commons in Easthampton or at Meautauket
that was given by the last will and testament of my grandfather
Richard Stretton deceased, unto Isaac Stretton and unto his
heirs and assigns forever: I say I do for myself and my heirs
forever quit all maner of claim that by law I have or seem to have
or any way pretend to have, unto the aforesaid premises as also
to a half share of Meautauket; unto the said Isaac Stretton and
to his heirs assignees forever without any the least hindrance or

* John Sturges was 37 years old in 1660, at which time he settled in Fair-
field, Conn. He married Deborah, daughter of John Barlow.

t This will has not been found although careful search has been made for it.

molostation by or from me the said Solomon Stretton and my
heirs forever and I do here for myself and my heirs forever as far
as lies in me ... & confirm the said land meadow and privi-
leges unto the said Isaac Stretton and to his heirs assigns forever
as witness my hand and seal set this 19 day of Feb. 1705-6.

the mark of
Solomon S Stretton

3. Thomas Stratton 2 (Richard x ) was not yet of age when his
mother married the second time. In her marriage contract dated
1678 his mother stipulates that "My son Thomas Stratton shall
be paid out of the Estate at ye age of twenty one yeares the sum
of twenty pounds in currant pay in the case he continue with me
soe long." By his father's will he was given two lots of land in
Easthampton.* He married Mary Miller, daughter of John
Miller of Easthampton. This we learn from the will of John
Miller, who died in Cohausy, N. J., in 1699. In this will, dated
the year of his death, he names his daughter Mary, wife of Thomas
Stratton of Easthampton. f As there is no record of this mar-
riage we know nothing of the date of it. It may have occurred
as early as 1680. Thomas died in Easthampton, May 26, 1704.
His widow was still living there in 1706. No record of a second
marriage, or of her death, is found there. She may have followed
her father's family to New Jersey.

Children:

-13 Thomas, 3 living in New Jersey, "a minor of 15 years,"
Sept. 28, 1715, when his uncle, Noah Miller, was ap-
pointed his guardian.

* How these lands' were disposed of, deeds do not show, and no will of Thomas
Stratton has been found. Many of the early deeds were not recorded, and
often wills were not probated. New York State laws admit of the title passing
and no deed or will recorded, if the proper owner is in possession of the prop-
erty and holds the unrecorded deed, or unprobated will — or even proves his
relation as "next of kin" to the last known owner.

t Beginning about the year 1690 emigrants began to pass over from Con-
necticut and Long Island to "New Jersie," and among them were many
Easthampton families. It seems more than probable that among these emi-
grants were Strattons as early, at least, as 1704. John Miller removed with
his family from Easthampton to New Jersey before 1699. His will, dated
Aug. 23, 1899, is in the archives at Trenton.

Although the records at Easthampton contain nothing more
concerning this family, it is quite probable there were other
children.

4. Isaac 2 (Richard : ) was named in his father's will, 1674,
and nothing further is known of him until November 5, 1703,
when he married Margaret Edwards in Easthampton. By
trade he was a cooper. November 27, 1708, Margaret, "ye wife
of Isaac Stratton owned ye covenant " in the church, and on that
same day two of her children were baptized. From 1704 to 1710
Isaac Stratton's signature is found to six different deeds by which
he disposes of the various lots of land which he owned — by in-
heritance and purchase, and then his name disappears from the
records of his native town, and he has not yet been located else-
where.

Children: — Born in Easthampton.

-14 Sarah, 3 bapt. Nov. 27, 1708.

-15 Isaac, 3 bapt. Nov. 27, 1708.

Also, another child that d. July 25, 1708, "aged about
1 or 2 years."

This family, also, may have moved to New Jersey, where there
are early Strattons whose ancestry is yet unaccounted for. Fur-
ther information is very much desired.

6. Benjamin Stratton * (Richard J ) married Mary ,

some time before 1698. Their seven children were born in East-
hampton and some of their descendants still live there. On the
1st of March, 1704, Benjamin and his brother Issaac, divided the
home land left them by their father's last will. This land and
other property owned by Benjamin was sold by him, as shown
by deeds on record at Easthampton. The last of these deeds is
dated September 3, 1715. Very soon after this date he removed
with his family to Fairfield, Salem County, N. J., where he died
before September 14th of the following year. Letters of ad-
ministration were granted his widow, Mary Stratton,* Octo-

* Her maiden name has not been found, although careful search has been
made for it. A more thorough study of probate records at Riverhead and
Trenton might discover her parentage. There is no doubt that she belonged
to one of the fine old families of Easthampton. Left a widow, within a year

ber 18, 1716, and the estate was settled April 8, 1717. An in-
ventory of his estate is preserved in the archives at Trenton.

Children: — Born in Easthampton, L. I.

-16 Abigail, 3 bapt. Sept., 1699.

+ 17 Benjamin, 3 d. in New Jersey, 1759. f

-18 Mary, 3 bapt. Jan. 2, 1603-4.

+ 19 William, 3 d. in New Jersey, 1759.

+ 20 Jonathan, 3 d. in Easthampton, 1760.

+ 21 Isaac, 3 bapt. May 27, 1711; d. in New Jersey.

+ 22 David, 3 bapt. Jan. 2, 1615; d. in New Jersey.

All of these children were baptized by Rev. Nathaniel Huntting,
pastor of the church at Easthampton for fifty-four years.

12. Richard Stratton 3 (Richard, 2 Richard *) lived for several
years after his father's death on the land which he inherited,
"ye breadth of his home lot toward the north end being 24 poles
and seven foot." The last record of him at Easthampton is De-
cember 8, 1711, when his name appears on a list of Freeholders.

February 19, 1718, Richard Stratton married Rachel Cole, in
Boston. They settled in Rehoboth, Mass., where five sons were
born to them, and in that vicinity some of their descendants still
reside.* Rehoboth church records say that Richard and Rachel
Stratton were "dismissed from Rehoboth Church to Dunstable
Sept. 23, 1729." His name appears among the Freeholders of
Dunstable, July 6, 1747.

Children: — Born in Rehoboth, Mass.

-23 James, 4 b. May 12, 1719.

-24 David, 4 b. Oct. 22, 1721.

+ 25 Richard, 4 b. Nov. 18, 1724.

after moving into a new country, with a family of seven young children,
among her descendants are men and women well known in the history of her
adopted state for their intelligence, patriotism, uprightness of character and
Christian activity.

* That Richard of Rehoboth was Richard 3 of Easthampton is based upon
family tradition and "circumstantial evidence." There was much intimacy
for several generations between the people of Rehoboth and Easthampton,
and considerable trade between Rhode Island and Long Island. Anyone
better informed on this line will confer a great favor by communicating same
to the compiler.

-26 John, 4 b. May 12, 1726; d. Feb. 28, 1730.

-27 Jonathan, 4 b. Aug. 26, 1729.

The History of Lynchborough, N. H., shows that a James and
David Stratton appeared there in 1745, in company with Wm.
Holt; James settled on Cornelius Tarbell's right; David bought
land of Samuel Lemon, December 31, 1745.*

17. Benjamin Stratton 3 {Benjamin, 2 Richard 1 ) was born in
Easthampton; baptized in the church there February 22, 1701-2,
and moved with his father to New Jersey in 1715-16. Novem-
ber 28, 1723, he married Abigail Preston, daughter of Levi Pres-
ton.^ Benjamin lived at Fairfield, where he was an active member
of the Presbyterian Church. He died at the age of fifty years.
His will, dated July 13, 1751, and proved September 18th of the
same year, is on record at Trenton.

ABSTRACT OF WILL OF BENJAMIN STRATTON 3

To wife Abigail, the use of one-third of home farm and one-
third of movable estate. To daughter Abigail Harris 40 shillings
(she having received her portion at her marriage). To sons
Jonathan & Benjamin Stratton my house, land and tenements,
where I now live, and the improvements of all the lands belong-
ing to John Bellap, to be equally divided between them; to
Jonathan the land and marsh called Peter's Neck, except a piece
of marsh hereafter described; and to son Benjamin all my right
and title in the land and marsh called 'Long Island.' To son
Preston Stratton my plantation bought of Jeremiah Culver and
some marsh in Peter's Neck at the head of the creek (description
of land is here given), and £5 when 14; To my three daughters,
Freelove, Thomazine, and Elizabeth, £40 each at 18, or marriage.
To my two youngest sons, Levi and John £50 each at 14.
Executors, Sons Jonathan and Benjamin.

* The French were subdued at Louisburg in 1745, and from that time until
fresh trouble arose with the French and Indians in 1755 very many families
were moving from the older towns to the frontiers, and many new settlements
were made in New Hampshire and Vermont.

t The Prestons came from New England and settled in Cumberland County,
N. J., as early as 1706.

Children: — Born in Fairfield, N. J*

-28 Levi, 4 bapt. Sept. 27, 1724; d. Mar. 28, 1728.

-29 Abigail, 4 bapt. Feb. 25, 1726; m. Harris before

1751; d. Apr. 4, 1759.

+30 Jonathan, 4 bapt. Dec. 28, 1728.

+ 31 Benjamin, 4 bapt. Mar. 21, 1730.

-32 Freelove, 4 bapt. , 1733; m. Ambrose Whitteker.f

-33 Thomazine, 4 bapt. June 20, 1735; d. 1785.

-34 Elizabeth, 4 bapt. Oct. 28, 1737; d. June 14, 1759.

-35 Preston, 4 bapt. Jan. 1, 1740; d. Apr. 20, 1740.

-36 Preston, 4 bapt. Aug. 8, 1741; d. Nov. 18, 1759. A grave-
stone to his memory stands in the old Cross-roads
Presbyterian graveyard near Fairton, N. J.

+ 37 Levi, 4 bapt. Mar. 21, 1743.

+ 38 John, 4 bapt. Nov. 10, 1747.

The records tell us nothing more of Benjamin Stratton (17) but
we have good reasons for believing that he was a man of intelli-
gence and energy, a respected and active member of the little
community in which he lived. Left fatherless at the age of
sixteen years, he early identified himself with the Presbyterian
Church at Fairfield, — into which church all his children were
baptized; dying a comparatively young man, he had accumulated
quite a large property for that early time in New Jersey, and left
his wife and children well provided for. Among his descendants
is a large proportion of professional men, who have occupied
positions of trust and honor. Of the ten Stratton graduates of
Princeton College, eight are his descendants.

19. William Stratton 3 {Benjamin, 2 Richard 2 ) was baptized
January 13, 1705-6, and was ten years old when his father moved
to New Jersey. He married Phoebe Fithian, daughter of Jona-
than Fithian,% and lived in Deerfield, N. J. He died in the au-

* Fairfield, N. J., was settled largely by families from Connecticut and Long
Island. Almost every family of Easthampton had representatives among the
first settlers of this part of New Jersey.

t A family record says that Freelove was named for a sister of her mother —
a daughter of Levi Preston. Had Levi Preston other children?

% The Fithians came from Easthampton and settled in Salem County, N. J.,
about 1710.

tumn of 1759. His will, dated July 30, 1759, and probated De-
cember 22, is on file at Trenton. In it he mentions his wife,
Phoebe, his brother David and the five sons and two daughters
named below. His sons Jonathan and Fithian were executors of
the will, hence must have been of age in 1759. William was to
have the "weaver shop"; Jonathan and Fithian certain lots of
land; sons Ephriam and Aaron were to have £50 each at the age
of 21.

Children: *

+ 39 William, 4 d. in 1796.

— 40 Jonathan, 4 executor of his father's will.

-41 Sarah, 4 m. Parvin before 1759.

-42 Phoebe, 4 m. John Woodruff Aug. 15, 1757.
+ 43 Fithian, 4 executor of his father's will.

-44 Ephriam, 4 d. in 1777. Letters of administration granted
Fithian Stratton.

— 45 Aaron, 4 of whom nothing has been found after the date

of his father's will.

20. Jonathan Stratton 3 (Benjamin, 2 Richard *) was born in
Easthampton; baptized June 20, 1708. He was but eight years
old when his father died in New Jersey. Some time before he was
twenty-two years of age he returned to his native town, where he
spent the remainder of his life. January 20, 1730-31, he married
Mahitable Reeves, daughter of Abraham and Puah Reeves. f
Mahitable, wife of Jonathan Stratton, "owned ye covenant" in

* More data concerning the sons of this family is very much wanted. There
was a Jonathan Stratton who married Elizabeth Thackara (or Thackary) in
Salem, N. J., March 17, 1779. They settled in Philadelphia, and belonged to
the Third Presbyterian Church, and had several children, among them a son,
Benjamin Thackary Stratton, whose descendants are traced to the present
generation. (See Vol. II.) It is thought that this Jonathan was a grandson
of William Stratton of Deerfield. Proof is wanted.

Fithian had a nephew, Lot Stratton, who was, also, a Revolutionary soldier t
and who settled in Lycoming County, Pa. Later information concerning him
is desired; also concerning a Preston Stratton whose name is associated with
Fithian, but to whose parentage the writer has found no clew.

f Puah Reeves, after the death of her husband, Abraham Reeves, married
John Davis, who in his will leaves much of his estate to his nephew, John
Davis, and his daughter-in-law, Mahitible Stratton, and her son Benjamin
Stratton.

the church at Easthampton, October 15, 1732. He died May 30,
1766. His widow survived him seventeen years, dying in Septem-
ber, 1783.

Children:

-46 Mary, 4 bapt. Oct. 15, 1732.

-47 Jonathan, 4 bapt. Aug. 11, 1734.*

-48 Abraham, 4 bapt. Oct. 17, 1736; d. Sept. 25, 1738.

-49 Mahitable, 4 bapt, June 8, 1740; d. Aug. 20, 1752.

-50 Abraham, 4 bapt. Apr. 28, 1744; d. young.

+ 51 Benjamin, 4 d. in Easthampton.

21. Isaac Stratton 3 (Benjamin, 2 Richard 1 ) was baptized at
Easthampton, May 27, 1711, and was only about four years old
when his father moved to New Jersey. He died in Cumberland
County, N. J., intestate, at the age of 42 years, and his estate
was administered by Mary Stratton (undoubtedly his widow),
January 5, 1753. No children are mentioned in the administration.

22. David Stratton 3 (Benjamin, 2 Richard x ) was baptized at
Easthampton, January 2, 1615. But little is known of him. He
seems to have lived for a while at Deerfield, N. J. where he owned
land. He is mentioned in his brother William's will in 1759. He
married Elizabeth , who survived him, and was his ad-
ministratrix, January 14, 1764. In the administration he is said
to be "of Stow Creek, Cumberland Co." Nothing further is
known of his widow. It is not at all improbable that he left
children, although none are named in the administration.!

* This may be the Jonathan Stratton who died at Easthampton in July ,
1759. He may have married Anna Reeves of W. Hartford, April 1, 1754.
No trace has been found of any children.

t A David Stratton, whose parentage has not yet been traced, settled in
Millville, N. J. He married Sarah (Preston?). They were the parents of five

children: Preston, b. Dec. 16, 1773; m. Sarah Bateman. Lydia, m. 1st

Gaston; 2d, William Osier. Israel, who was associate judge of Cumberland
County. Jeremiah, b. Sept. 1, 1779; m. 1st, Zerviah Bateman; 2d, Mrs. Mar-
garet Buzby; was justice of the peace and county judge. Sarah, m. Enos
Woodruff.

The descendants of David of Milville have been very fully traced. Any
clew to his parentage will be very much appreciated, both by his descendants
and by the compiler. For his descendants see Vol. II.

25. Richard Stratton 4 (Richard? Richard, 2 Richard *) was
born in Rehoboth, Mass., November 18, 1724. He married Sarah
Newell, February 7, 1750. Town records show that he lived
in Attleboro and Foxboro, Mass., and Cumberland, R. I., — yet
he may have lived all his life in one house, for these three towns,
and several others, were comprised in Ancient Rehoboth, and the
boundaries between them have only recently been established.
Deeds of Suffolk County show that he bought a piece of land in
Wrentham in 1772. His will, in Suffolk County probate office,
was made June 19, 1778, and proved August 21st of same year.
It names only his wife Sarah and son James who is to settle with
the rest. His wife survived him twenty-eight years, dying Decem-
ber 27, 1806.

In a small cemetery near Foxboro, surrounded by woods and
known to but few, are several Stratton gravestones,-— one bears
this inscription:

In memory of

Richard Stratton

who died of ye small pox June 21, 1778 in ye 53 rd year of his age.

" How suddenly I leave behind

My children dear and wife so kind,

But Heaven's Decree with Joy obey

And wait the Resurrection Day."

Near by stands a stone to the "memory of Mrs. Sarah Stratton,
widow of Mr. Richard Stratton, who died in the 78th year of her
age."

Children: — Births recorded in Foxboro and Attleboro, Mass.

+ 52 James, 5 b. 1751; d. 1809. See Vol. II.

-53 John, 5 b. July 7, 1753; d. Aug. 15, 1753.

-54 Rachel, 5 b. June 28, 1754.

+ 55 George, 5 b. 1756; d. 1817. See Vol. II.
Births recorded in Cumberland, R. I.

-56 Sarah, 5 b. Oct. 20, 1758; m. Eben Fisher, Jr., Mar. 25,
1790, and removed to Holden, Me., and d. Aug. 15,
1848.

+ 57 Lemuel, 5 b. 1761; d. 1816. See Vol. II.

-58 Richard, 5 b. July 23, 1763.

+59 Robert, 5 b. 1765; d. 1842. See Vol. II.

-60 Cynthia. 5

+ 61 David, 5 b. Mar. 1768. See Vol. II.

+62 Joseph, 5 b. 1769; d. 1806. See Vol. II.

30. Jonathan Stratton 4 (Benjamin* Benjamin, 2 Richard *)
was baptized in Fairfield, N. J., December 28, 1728. He married
Abigail Buck, Feburary 19, 1754. She was born May 4, 1730,
and died, two years after her marriage, May 24, 1756. He then
married Catherine Marshall.

Children: — Born in Fairfield, N. J.

-63 Ruth, 5 bapt. Dec. 18, 1754.

-64 Jonathan, 5 bapt. Jan. 19, 1757. See footnote under

Wm. Stratton 3 (19).
-65 Catherine, 5 bapt. April 19, 1759.

31. Benjamin Stratton 4 (Benjamin, 3 Benjamin, 2 Richard 1 )
lived at Pittsgrove, N. J. He was baptized in the Presbyterian
church at Fairfield, March 21, 1731 (another record says that
this was the date of his birth). He married Sarah Austin of
Boston, October 9, 1752. His will (Trenton, Liber 9, p. 367)
was made February 9, 1759, and probated June 6, 1759. This
will describes him as being "sick and weak" and says the planta-
tion is to be equally divided between his sons Benjamin and
James. Witnesses, Henry Brooke, Jonathan Smith, Peter Austin.
He died on the 26th of March. His widow married Thomas
Ogden, of Fairfield.*

Children: — Born in Fairfield, N. J.

-66 Benjamin, 5 b. Oct. 2, 1753. Was this the Benjamin
Stratton who died in Salem County, intestate, letters
of administration to Israel Bowen, May 24, 1802?

-67 Sarah, 5 b. Oct. 2, 1753.

+ 68 James, 5 b. 1755; d. 1812. Built Stratton Hall, Swedes-
borough, N. J. He was the father of Governor
Charles C. Stratton. See Vol. II.

37. Levi Stratton 4 (Benjamin, 3 Benjamin, 2 Richard 1 ) was

* Sarah Austin was born July 26, 1730, and died Nov. 1, 1804. Thomas
Ogden (1720-85) was a descendant of John Ogden, who came from Eng-
land in 1640; moved from Southampton, L. I., to Elizabeth, N. J., and was
the first Governor of New Jersey.

born in Fairfield, 1743. He married Abigail Powell. May 3,
1778, he united with the Presbyterian church at Fairfield and in
1790 was a ruling elder. His wife died December 18, 1785, in the
44th year of her age. He died, February 15, 1792, intestate, and
his estate was administered by his brother, John Stratton. Stones
to their memory are standing in the Old Stone Churchyard at
Fairfield.

Children: — Born in Fairfield, N. J.

-69 Sarah, 5 b. April, 1775; m. Ruben Buck. Their daughter,
Sarah Buck, m. Levi Stratton, son of John (38) and
Eleanor (Leake) Stratton.
+ 70 Daniel Powell, 5 b. 1784; d. 1840. Lived at Bridgeton,
N. J. See Vol. II.

38. John Stratton 4 (Benjamin, 3 Benjamin, 2 Richard 1 ) was
but four years old when his father died in 1751. May 3, 1762,
Joseph Dayton was appointed his guardian. He married, April 5,
1775, Eleanor Leake, daughter of Nathan Leake of Deerfield.*
They lived for several years at Fairfield and were members of the
Presbyterian church there. Mr. Stratton was a zealous Whig.
In 1783 he removed to Deerfield, where he was a justice of the
peace, and a ruling elder. At the time of his death he was a
member of the Pittsgrove Presyterian church. He died in 1814
a much esteemed citizen; his wife survived him but one month.
Tombstones bearing the following inscriptions, mark their graves
in the Pittsgrove churchyard:

In memory of

Mr. John Stratton

Who departed this life in peace and comfort, Feb. 11, 1814, aged

66 yrs. 3 mos and 1 day

"The righteous have hope in Christ."

In memory of
Mrs. Eleanor Stratton
Who departed this life in peace and joy, March 9, 1814, aged
62 yrs. 5 mos and 19 days.

* According to Judge Elmer in Brief Notices of Old Residents of Cumber-
land John Stratton married, 1st, Abby Leake and 2d, Eleanor Leake, sister
of Abby. They were the only daughters of Nathan Leake, grandson of Recom-
pence Leake, who moved from Long Island to Deerfield, N. J., about 1732.

Stratton Hall, Swedesboro, N. J.

Built in 1794. Birthplace and home of Hon. Charles Creighton Stratton,

Governor of New Jersey in 1845-48. {Page 113.)

Home of Dr. John Leake Stratton
At Mount Holley, N. J.
(72, Chart C; see page 115)

"For we know that of our earthly house of this tabernacle
were dissolved, we have a building of God an house not made
with hands, eternal in the Heavens."
Children: — Born in Fairfield, N. J.
-71 Elizabeth, 5 b. 1776; d. 1777.
+ 72 John Leake, 5 b. 1778; d. 1845. Lived at Mt. Holly,

N. J. See Vol. II.
-73 Gilbert Tennent, 5 b. Feb. 6, 1781; d. at the age of 26
years, unm.; gravestone at Pittsgrove.
Born in Deerfield, N. J.
+ 74 Nathan Leake, 5 b. 1786; d. 1862. Lived at Bridgeton,

N. J. See Vol. II.
+ 75 Levi, 5 b. 1791; d. 1838; m. Sarah Buck daughter of
Ruben and Sarah Stratton (69) Buck. See Vol. II.

39. William Stratton 4 (William? Benjamin, 2 Richard x )
lived in Deerfield, N. J., where he was a blacksmith by trade and
owned real estate which he inherited from his father. The date
of his birth is not known, but he seems to have been married before
1759, when his father refers to "my son William and his family."
He married Rebecca . He died March 26, 1796.

Children: — Born in Deerfield, N. J.

+ 76 William, 5 d. Feb. 2, 1812. Settled in Philadelphia. See
Vol. II.

There were probably other children, who settled in Philadelphia,
and other parts of Pennsylvania. Proof of this is much desired.

43. Fithian Stratton 4 (William, 3 Benjamin, 2 Richard x ) was
born in 1738. He married Ruth (or Sarah?) Buck, and lived
at Deerfield, N. J., where he was an active member of the Presby-
terian church. About 1781 he was disciplined by his church, for
"consorting with the methodist." Later, he joined the Methodist
church and became a local preacher in that denomination. He
was an adjutant in Col. Enos Seeley's Battalion, New Jersey State
Troops. He died October 26, 1817, and is buried in the Presby-
terian churchyard at Deerfield, where a tombstone stands to the
memory of Rev. Fithian Stratton. Poulson's Am. Advertiser
(Phila.), of January 27, 1825, has this obituary notice: "Mrs.
Sarah Stratton, widow of Rev. Fithian Stratton died 1st mo. 26."

A Book of Strattons

51. Benjamin Stratton 4 (Jonathan? Benjamin, 2 Richard 1 )
was born in Easthampton, L. I. The record of his baptism has
not been found. In 1770 he was the only one living of the six
children of his parents. But little is known of him. He was
probably the Benjamin Stratton who died in Easthampton
June 28, 1781. He married Mary (Havens?)
Children :
-77 Diana. 5

Benjamin, 5 moved to Saratoga County, N. Y. See Vol. II.
Mary. 5

Jonathan, 5 bapt. Feb. 19, 1769; d. 1833. Lived in East-
hampton. See Vol. II.

+ 78
-79
+ 80

More information concerning Benjamin 4 is very much desired.
The vital records at that period were but imperfectly kept. His
old home is still standing, and is one of the landmarks of his native
town. It is believed to be the home of his parents from the date
of their marriage in 1730.

The descendants of Jonathan 5 continued to live there to the
present generation — esteemed citizens of the town of which their
ancestor was one of the founders in the old colonial days.

As far as can be learned from records at Easthampton, the Strat-
tons of this branch are the only descendants of Richard Stratton x
who continued to live there after the third generation.

An Oak Chest Belonging to One of
the Descendants of Richard Strat-
ton. 1

Tradition says, " Brought from Eng-
land by Richard Stratton in 1643."

JOHN STRATTON OF EASTHAMPTON

(See Chart D)

1. John Stratton was at Easthampton, L. I., as one of its
"first settlers" in 1649. It is possible that he came to Southamp-
ton with his brother Richard as early as 1644.*

His name stands fifth on the list of founders of the town, and
from the first he was a prominent man among the settlers. In
1652 the boundaries of his home lot are given in the town records
as follows:

"John Straton ffour ackers upon the litel plaine be it more or
lesse bounded by the hie way South and Thomas Talmage junior
West and on the North parte agt Luke Lillie and part agt Richard
Straton: and the hie way East"

As son of William Stratton of Tenterden, he would have been
twenty-eight years old when he came to Easthampton, and by
his father's will (see page 65) would have received £120, or about
$1200 at the age of twenty-three. He acquired considerable real
estate on Long Island which by his will he divided among his nine
children.

His four sons lived and died at Easthampton and he has de-
scendants living there to-day.

He was one of the few men of the town who owned serv-
ants. In the inventory of his personal estate at the time
of his death are "2 negro and childe." One of these he willed
to his daughter, Ruth White. The other two, according to a
family tradition, were given their freedom. Two of his children
were b by he came to Easthampton. Before 1645 he
married Sarah , whether in England or America is not

* For his ancestry see Shrivenham Strattons, this Volume. Also, see Early
Strattons of Long Island.

Howell's History. of Southampton says: "John Stratton had a grant of land
in 1644, not here in 1649 but one of the settlers of Easthampton in that year."

The records at Southampton give no evidence of a John Stratton ever having
lived there. If this grant was to John, brother of Richard Stratton, he proba-
bly returned to England, and remained there until about 1649. William
Stratton of Tenterden, in his will, 1647, mentions his son John and says nothing
to indicate that he is not in England.

Bond, Savage and others supposed this grant at Southampton was to John
Stratton of Salem. Much unsuccessful search has been made for any proof
of this theory.

known. On March 1, 1664, he was one of the deputies sent by
Easthampton to Hampstead to declare loyalty to the British
Government. He was made executor of his brother Richard's
will in 1674. His own will, dated August 30, 1684, was proved
before the Court of Sessions held in Southampton, March 16, 1685.
One of the witnesses to this will is Rev. Thomas James, first pastor
of the church at Easthampton.

WILL OF JOHN STRATTON

The last will and testament of mee John Stratton, Sen'r, of
Easthampton, in Suffolk County, upon Long Island in America,
being at this present through gods mercy of perfect mind and
understanding I give my soule to god who gave it and bequeath
my body to ye dust from whence it came and my Estate as fol-
io weth:

1st I give to my beloved wife Sarah the south end of my house
wholly from bottom to ye topp of it dureing her life, and halfe
my home lott and addition to it dureing her life, and I give to her
dureing her life halfe my cloase lying by the side of ye pond called
Hook pond, also my will is shee shall have for her use dureing
her life my peice of meadow I formerly bought of George Miller,
Sen'r, lying at ye North West, also my will is my wife dureing her
life shall have the use of all my goods lying within doors, and after
all this to be disposed of according as I apointe in this my will.

2dly my will is my eldest son John Stratton shall have my hous I
live in and barne (viz) one half of my dwelling hous, being the north
end of it, dureing his mother's life, and after mine and her decease
the whole shall be his and his heires forever, also I give to him
halfe my home lott and the addition to it dureing his mother's
life, and after mine and her decease the whole lott and addition to
it shall be his and his heires forever. Also I give to my son Jno.
and his heires halfe my cloase lying by Hook pond, that parte
next Jerimiah Miller's lott, also I give to him and his heires thirteen
acres of land lying at Wainscott (viz) six acres of land to adjoyne
to ye seven acres I formerly gave him, this to come downe to ye

beach, also I give unto the nine acres he hath already

fenced in eastward, also I give unto this my son John my wood-
land lott lying by William Mulford's lott eastward and Mr. Mul-

ford westward, being ten acres or thereabouts, also I give unto
my son John and his heires besides the meadow he hath possion
of, all my meadow at wapeack and at akkabowak, also I give unto
him halfe my lott of meadow I had of Jerrimy Conkline, lying at
ye northwest, also I give to this my son John comonage soe much
as comes to a share of a thirteen acre lott, both at ye towne and
at montaukut; be it further known my will is that after my de-
cease my son John shall take possession of halfe my house and lott
at home as aforesaid upon this condition hee deliver up the house
hee now lives in and the home lott and adittion to it to ye posses-
sion of his brother Stratton as I shall further apoint.

3dly I give to my 2d son Joseph fifty acres of land, more or lesse,
lying at Wainscot (viz) all my land there undisposed of to my son
John as aforsd. Also I give unto him two percells of meadow, one
lying at ye north-west, the one by the west creek next Capt.
Talmages meadow, the other percell lying with Capt. Talmage
undivided, this land aforesd. I give to him and his heires forever.

41y I give to my 3d son Stephen thirty-one acres of land lying in
ye woods, bounded upon the south by Robert Dayton's lott, upon
ye west by William Mulford's lott and the highway north, to him
and his heires forever. Also I give him six acres of land more
eastward, lying upon the plaine near the Indian Well, alsoe I give
unto him and his heirs six acres and a halfe a land lying upon the
Easterneplaine by Goodman Bishop's lott, upon the east: also I
give this my son Stephen that percell of meadow is mine lying at
ye little northwest by Samuell Parson's meadow. Also I give to
him half my meadow at ye great northwest lying by Sam'll Mul-
fords meadow.

oly I give to my 4th son Cornelius Stratton the house home lott
and adit ion my son John now lives upon, to him, and the heires of
his body to take possession of it at his marriage or after my de-
cease; alsoe I give unto him after mine and my wife's decease half
my cloase lying at hoock pond north, alsoe I give to this my son
Cornelius and his heirs forever my ten acre cloase lying eastward,
now fenced in. lying by Stephen Hedges lott. Also I give unto him
six acres of land I bought formerly of Jermy Meecham, lying by
Mr. Mulford's lott east; also one acre of land lying south of hoock
pond by Tho. Osborne's lott west; alsoe I give him three acres
and halfe more lying upon the Mill plaines; also I give him a

percell of meadow at little northwest, bounded by Stephen Hedges
upon the south; alsoe half apeice of meadow at ye great norwest
lying by Sam'll Mulford south; also another percell of meadow
lying upon the east side of ye norwest, the part being his brother
John's as aforesd; alsoe a percell of meadow after my wife's de-
cease, which I bought of Georg Miller.

61y I give to my grand child Joseph Hand my three acres and
halfe and sixteen pole of land lying north of Samuell Parson's
cloase; alsoe foure acres of land lying by Tho Bee's Lott, he not
to have this land aforesaid untill he comes at age, neither shall
hee allinate or dispose of it anyway without ye advice and consent
of his father Stephen Hand and his uncles John and Stephen;
alsoe I give him twenty pounds out of my estate, to be paid him
by my Executors one year after mine and wife's decease, in good
current pay and price, he not to dispose of it without advice and
consent as aforesd, of his father and my two sons.

71y I give to my daughter Abigaile, wife of Henry Norris, ten
pounds out of my estate to be paid by my executors after mine and
wife's decease in good pay and price current within one year as
aforesd.

81y I give to my daughter Rebeka Busnell twenty pounds after
mine and wife decease, to be paid her at price current in good
pay within a year by my executors.

91y I give to my daughter Ruth White my negro girle called
Hager and five pounds besides out of my estate, to be paid aforesd,
to my other daughters.

lOly I give to my son Joseph Stratton ten pounds out of my
estate, to be paid as aforesaid to my daughters.

11 — I give to my grand child Steven Hand five pounds to be
paid by my executors in maner as aforesaid.

12 — I give to my grandchild Stephen Hedges five pounds, to
be paid in maner as aforesd.

13 — I give to my son John all debts and leagacyes paid: a
duble portion of moveable goods, both within doors and without,
after his mother's decease.

14 — I give to my two younger sons Stephen and Cornelious all
debts and Leagacyes paid the remainder of my moveable goods,
after their mother's decease, to be equally divided between them,
and the remainder of my comonage I will to be disposed of to my

three sons Joseph, Stephen and Cornelius both that at the towne
and montauket.

15 — Also my will is if any of my sons aforesaid should decease
without any heirs of their body lawfully begotten the land be-
queathed as aforesaid to any of them, shall goe to my other sons
shall survive or their heires, to be devided in equal shares amongst
them; due consideration being allowed for what charges hath
been layd out by any one of them upon the lands aforesaid.

16 — My will is my three sonns John, Stephen and Cornelious
together with their mother, soe long as shee lives, be executors of
this my will and testament.

Lastly I desire Stephen Hedges and Stephen Hand to be over-
seers of this my will, with due consideration to be paid them by
my executors for what pains and charge they may be at concerning
it, and in confirmation of this my will and testament I set to my
hand and seale this 30th day of August, Anno Domini 1684.

John Stratton.

Signed, sealed in presence of us

Thomas James, Stephen Hand.

The exact date of John Stratton's death is not known, but it
was before March 12, 1685-6, as an inventory of his estate bears
that date. This was presented, with the will, to the Court of
Sessions.*

* March the 12: 1685-6, the inventory of John Stratton's Estate:

£
9 pewter platters, 2 quart potts and 3 small bassons and 2 old potts,

the rest of the things being old 2

2 brass kettles, one of them old 5

3 candle sticks, 2 of them old

2 pairs of fire tongs and a gridiron

1 brass ladle and a choping knife

1 old driping pan, 1 old kan

1 tub, 1 churn, 1 wheele

8 old chayres, two table and form 1

Beding blankets and sheets 7

2 negro and childe 50

7 potts, cettles and scellets 03

Cart and plow takleing, being all old 03

1 grindstone 12s, boules, keelers and pailes lie 01

3 howes, 2 tramils 12s, 1 old wheel 2s, a musket 7s 1

8

4

6

7

4

2

13

05

14

5

10

3

1

Children:

+ 2 John, 2 b. about 1645.

- 3 A daughter, who m. Stephen Hand, and d. before 1684,

leaving children.

+ 4 Joseph, 2 b. 1649; d. 1722.

+ 5 Stephen, 2 d. 1697.

+ 6 Cornelius, 2 d. 1704.

— 7 Abigail, 2 m. Henry Norris.

— 8 Rebecca, 2 m. Bushnell.

- 9 A daughter, who m. Stephen Hedges before 1684.

-10 Ruth, 2 m. James White, in Southampton, Nov. 24, 1675.

2. John Stratton 2 (John *) was about four years old at the
date of the first mention of his father in Easthampton. He may
have been born in England — or in Southampton. He early became
a prominent man in the colony where his name appears many
times on the records, and he is usually styled "Mr John Stratton,"
showing the respect and esteem in which he was held by his towns-
men.

By his father's will he became possessed of seven lots of land
"with commonage both in ye town and at Montauket, besides one
half of the dwelling house and home lot, while his mother lived
and the whole of it after her death, with a double portion of mov-
able goods both indoors and out." In 1694 he was chosen collector
for the town. He married Mary James, daughter of Rev. Thomas
James * Both he and his wife were members of the church at

9 cowes 18£, 2 oxen 6£, 10s 24 10

2 steers 6£, 6 more small cattle 10£, 8s 16 8

6 more young cattle 7, 10s 07 10

6 calves 4£, 1 mare, one horse, 1 yearling horse 6£ 10

36 sheep 8£ 10, 8 small swine 40s 10 10

t

By Stephen Hand and ) The Totall 145 14 6

Stephen Hedges.

* Rev. Thomas James, son of Rev. Thomas James of Lincolnshire, Eng.,
came to America in 1632 in the ship "William and Francis "; was pastor of
the church at Easthampton for forty-six years. Of him Hon. H. P. Hedges
says: "Minister James understood the Indian language; sometmes instructed
the Indians, preached to them and acted as interpreter. He was learned,
resolute, just, sincere, fearless, active, a powerful personality."

Easthampton when Nathaniel Huntting became its pastor, and
their son, John, was baptized by him.

On the church records Mary's death is thus recorded: "Feb. 14,
1718. The wife of Mr. John Stratton died a little before midnight
aged about 64 yrs." Seventeen years later is this record : " Feb. 19,
1735-6. Mr. John Stratton died about 7 of ye clock, aged about
90 years."

Children :

-11 A child, 3 not named; d. Jan. 7, 1696-7.

- 12 Esther, 3 d. April 20, 1707.

+ 13 John, 3 bapt. Dec. 10, 1699.

That there were children older than these is quite possible, but
the records at Easthampton contain nothing to indicate it.

4. Joseph Stratton 2 {John *) died at Easthampton, Decem-
ber 23, 1722, "att 10 of ye clock in ye morning, aged 73 years."
In 1683 his estate at Easthampton was valued at £100. The name
of his first wife is not known. She died April 3, 1714.

His second wife, Sarah, was left a widow at his death. His will,
dated October 8, 1722, names no sons. It mentions his "present
wife, Sarah," with whom a marriage settlement had been made
October 28, 1714, which she accepted in lieu of all claim for dower.
His estate, real and personal, he leaves in about equal shares to
his two daughters, with small legacies to his three grandchildren,
children of his daughter, Martha Conkling.

Children :

— 14 Hannah, 3 m. Jessop.

-15 Martha, 3 m. Ananias Conkling, Apr. 3, 1701.

The will of Joseph 2 is on file at Riverhead. There is nothing
in it to indicate that there were any other children.

5. Stephen Stratton 2 {John x ) is named as one of the execu-
tors of his father's will in 1684. He married Hannah Reeves,
daughter of Robert and Elizabeth {Mott) Reeves of Hartford, Conn.*
The date of this marriage is not known. It may have been as

* Elizabeth was a daughter of John Mott, one of the first settlers of Weath-
ersfield, Conn.

early at least at 1680, though there is nothing in his father's will
to show that he was married in 1684.

Two years after his death his widow, Hannah, married Isaac
Halsey of Southampton, December 11, 1699. His death is thus
recorded on the church books at Easthampton: "Died April 8,
1697, Stephen Stratton, abt. break of day."

Child:

+ 16 John, 3 d. in Easthampton, 1775, date of birth not known.

Easthampton records show no other children, but as the births
earlier than 1696 were not recorded, there may have been others.
If so they must have left Easthampton, and may have settled in
Connecticut among their mother's relatives.

6. Cornelius Stratton 2 {John J ) was the youngest son of
John Stratton. In his father's will he is named as one of the ex-
ecutors. This may, or may not, indicate that he was of age at
that time. The will shows that he was not married at that date.
At his marriage, or after his father's decease, he was to have the
"house home lott and addition," then occupied by his eldest
brother, John. The date of his marriage has not been found, but
on the probate records at Fairfield, Conn., there is plenty to show
that he married Martha Hull, daughter of Cornelius Hull of
Fairfield.

Fairfield Probate Records, Volume 1689-1701, -page 126. Will
of Cornelius Hull of Fairfield, dated September 16, 1695, contains
a bequest to " my daughter Martha the wife of Cornelious Stratton
seventy acres of my long lot."

Fairfield Land Records, Volume 3, page 393, Joseph Stratton
and Samuel Stratton of Huntington, L. I., sell one half of 70 acres
"which was our Grandfather Levt Cornelius Hulls late of Fairfield
deceased the whole seventy acres was given by him to our Mother
Martha Straton of Easthampton on said Long Island his daughter."
Dated April 15, 1718.

Cornelius Stratton may have lived in Connecticut for a while
after his marriage, and his widow returned there after his death.
In 1699 he was living at Easthampton and owned "ye covenant"
in the church there, and his son Samuel was baptized. Cornelius
died in Easthampton March 27, 1704.

Children:

+ 17 Joseph, 3 date of birth not known.

+ 18 Eliphalet, 3 d. 1753, aged about 55 yrs.

+ 19 Samuel, 3 b. 1699; d. 1791.

-20 Rebecca, 3 bapt. Aug. 8, 1703; lived in Connecticut, but
d. in Easthampton, Feb. 3, 1721, while on a visit to
her brother Eliphalet.

From Fairfield Probate Records:

"There being two of the sons of Cornelious Straton late of Long
Island dec'd being providentially Cast into this Govermint and
there being no persons in Law to take the care of them and one
of them namely Samuell Straton being under age for Chooseing
his Gardian the Court of Probates held in Fairfield december 6:
1710 do therefore make Choice of And Appoint his Unckle Samuell
Hull of Fairfeild to be his Gardian." Vol. 1702-1750.

" Joseph & Sam 11 Stratten were by a Court of Probate held in
Fairfield august y e 28 th 1727 appointed Admrs on ye Estate of
their Mother Martha Adams Late of Huntington deed. & they have
given bond with surety on file." Vol. 1724-1729, p. 32.

13. John Stratton 3 {John, 2 John 2 ) was born December 10,
1699. Nothing more is known of him until his marriage to Amy
Conkling, December 29, 1719. Two years later is this church
record at Easthampton: " Died, Sept. 29, 1721, John Stratton jr.
son of Mr. John Stratton, aged about 22 years." His widow, Amy,
married Mathew Dayton in Easthampton, 1725.

Children: — Born in Easthampton.

+ 21 John, 4 bapt. Oct. 8, 1721.

16. John Stratton, 3 "weaver" (Stephen, 2 John 1 ) married
Elizabeth Smith, daughter of Nathaniel Smith, a prominent citizen
of that region. She was born in 1698, and died March 30, 1765.
They lived on a farm near Easthampton. In 1728 he was con-
stable at Easthampton. His uncle, John Stratton 2 (John *), in a
quitclaim deed dated 1698, refers to him as "John Stratton,
junior, son of Stephen." This was the year after the death of
Stephen, and the year before the birth of John 3 son of John
Stratton. 2 After this John, son of Stephen, is often called "John
Stratton jr" both in church and town records.

June 16, 1717, "John Stratton, jr., owned ye covenant, also his
wife."

In 1775 he was sergeant-major in a regiment of volunteers in
Suffolk County. In April of that year he declared his loyalty to
Continental Congress. He died July 21, 1775.

Children: — Births recorded on Easthampton church records.
-22 Hannah, 4 bapt. June 16, 1717; m. Timothy Miller, June 30,

1741.
-23 Phebe, 4 bapt. Mar. 15, 1719.
+ 24 Stephen, 4 bapt. Jan. 15, 1721.
-25 Amy, 4 bapt. July 14, 1723.
+ 26 John, 4 bapt. Oct. 17, 1725.

— 27 Smith, 4 bapt. July 16, 1727; received into the church at
Easthampton in 1754; graduated at Princeton, N. J.,
1755; became a Presbyterian minister; d. Mar. 8, 1758;
buried at Southold, where a stone stands to his memory.
-28 Samuel, 4 bapt. Mar. 23, 1729, of whom further informa-
tion is wanted.
+ 29 Mathew, 4 bapt. July 4, 1730.
-30 Joseph, 4 bapt. June 10, 1733; d. May 2, 1734.
-31 Elizabeth, 4 bapt, Oct, 12, 1734; d. aged 8 mo.
-32 Henry, 4 bapt, Dec. 11, 1737; d. Aug. 10, 1738.

John 3 made his will " May ye 7, A. D. 1759 "; a copy of it is on
record in New York City Surrogate Office. He wills to "wife Eliza-
beth h of all lands, likewise north end of dwelling house with use of
linter fireplace and oven, with all privilages there unto belonging.
Likewise ^ of all my cattle and ^ of all my sheep and half the privi-
lage of the orchard. Likewise all my furniture, except my desk,
weaving-loom, wrench, books, reed and gnees, wool combs and
my family utensils. The rest to be to her my said wife during her
natural life. Son Mathew to have certain lands and all articles
mentioned above." There are legacies, also, to sons Stephen,
John and Samuel; and daughters Hannah, Phebe, Amy and
Elizabeth.

17. Joseph Stratton 3 (Cornelius, 2 John 1 ) was b by
1696. After his father's death in 1704, he and his brother Samuel
lived at Fairfield, Conn., with their mother's people. In 1717

Joseph bought land in Huntington, L. I., and settled there. He

married Elizabeth , whether in Fairfield or Huntington

has not been learned. He made his will in 1749 and died in Hunt-
ington in 1751.

Children: — Born in Huntington, L. I.

-33 Rebecca, 4 m. James Chichester, May 30, 1745.

-34 Elizabeth, 4 m. Epenetus Bryan, Dec. 24, 1739.

+ 35 Joseph, 4 bapt. Nov. 19, 1724.

+ 36 John 4 bapt. Oct. 22, 1727.

-37 Martha, 4 m. John McGear, June 9, 1753.

-38 Stephen, 4 bapt. Dec. 10, 1732.*

-39 Anne, 4 bapt. Nov. 24, 1734; m. Daniel Sherwood of
Greenfield.

+ 40 Cornelius 4 bapt. Apr. 3, 1737.

WILL OF JOSEPH STRATTOxf

1749

In the name of God, Amen. I Joseph Stratton of Huntington
in the County of Suffolk and Colony of New York being of sound
and perfect mind memory and understanding but calling to mind
the mortality of my Body and that it is appointed for all men once
to die do make ordain constitute and declare this my last Will and
Testament in manner and form following (that is to say) first of all
I commit my Soul to God that gave it and my Body to the earth
to be buried in a Christian like manner and touching such worldly
estate as God hath bestowed upon me I give devise and dispose
of the same in the following manner and form: Imprimis I will
and order that all such debts as I owe in Law or Conscience be
paid and satisfied by my hereafter named executors in some con-
venient time after my decease.

Item I give and bequeath to my dearly beloved wife Elizabeth
Stratton a Bed and furniture and twenty pounds in money to her
and her assign to be raised out of my moveable estate and the use
of all my Lands and Meadow (except eight acres which I shall
hereafter give to my son Joseph Stratton in a Deed of sale) with

* A Stephen Stratton married Jane Eustick at West Farms. Conn., in 1778.
He has not yet been identified.

t Surrogate's Office, New York City, Book 18, Record of Wills, page 47.

all my Buildings so long as she continues my widow but if she will
not except of said Bed furniture and the use of my Lands Meadow
and buildings in stead of her thirds or widow Right then my will
is that she shall have no more of my estate than the Law will
allow her. Item I give and bequeath to my beloved son Joseph
Stratton that piece of Land being about half an acre at the west
end of my home Lott wherein his Tanfatt is fixed and eight acres
of my field called the old Field on the north side thereof and one
third of a hundred right in the Commons of huntington to him his
heirs and assigns. Item I give and Bequeath to my beloved son
John Stratton twenty acres of Land in the eastern purchase . . .
in the second Tere of Lotts and Ten acres of Land on the plains
Eastward of the Newfound pond joyned on the east to the Land
laid out to the right held by Eliphalet Jarvis to him his heirs and
Assigns forever. Item I give and Bequeath to my beloved son
Stephen Stratton the half of that Meadow Lott at the South end
which I bought of William Jarvis also all the Land I have South-
ward upon the plains lying North of the Road called Sabath day
path and six acres Joyning on the east side of the Land laid out
to the right formerly held by Eliphalet Jarvis on the Plains Be-
tween dicks hills and Cowharbour South Path and a third of a
hundred Right to him his heirs and assigns forever. Item I give
and Bequeath to my beloved son Cornelius Stratton my lott of
land on which I now dwell (except half an acre which I shall give
to my son Joseph) with all my Buildings also half that Meadow
Lott I bought of William Jarvis at the North end and all the South
part of my old field beside that eight acres on the north side,
which I shall give to my son Joseph and four acres of Wood Land
on the North East corner of that tract of Land commonly called
the Young Orchard and a third part of a hundred Right to him
his heirs and assigns forever but if any of my said sons that are
now in nonage should die in nonage and without lawfull Issue in
such case my Will is that his or their part shall be equally divided
between the surviving Brethren and remain to them their heirs and
assigns forever as above. Item I give to my Daughters Rebeckah
Martha and Ann and to my Grand DaughteriRuth Bryan daughter
to my Daughter Elizabeth deceased, equally between them all
my moveable estate except what is disposed of above. Lastly I
nominate constitute and appoint my Brother Samuel Stratton

and Thomas Conkling both of huntington executors of this my
last Will and Testament to execute fullfill and perform the same
according to the true intent and meaning thereof.

In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this
third day of February in the twenty third year of his Majesty's
Reign and in the Year of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ one
thousand seven hundred and forty nine fifty.

Joseph Stratton l. s.

Signed sealed and published pronounced declared by the said
Joseph Stratton in the presence of the subscribers as his last will
and Testament

Hezekiah Rogers, David Sammis Jun r , Jonathan Jarvis.

Huntington September 12 th 1751
Whereas I have lately bought a certain parcell of Land sence the
date of my enclosed Will and my Will is that the said land should
be sold to the best advantage by my executors and all my just
debts paid and the rest disposed according to my enclosed Will
giving my loving Brother Samuel Stratton and my good Friend
Thomas Conkling my executors full power and authority as well
as to dispose of the said land above as to fullfill my within will as
witness my hand the day and year above written
John Satterly, Gilbert Potter

his

Joseph X Stratton.

mark

18. Eliphalet Stratton 3 {Cornelius, 2 John 1 ) was born in
1696-7, probably in Easthampton. His father died when he
was about six years old. Nothing is known of him from this time
until his marriage to Phebe Conkling, in Easthampton, March 15,
1715. He owned considerable real estate and was a man of stand-
ing in the community. March 2, 1716, he and his wife were re-
ceived into the church by Rev. Nathaniel Huntting. In 1724-6
he was chosen trustee of the town. His will, made 1744, names
his wife, Phebe, and eight children. His death is thus recorded
on the church records: "Mr. Eliphalet Stratton died Sept. 21, 1753,
aged about 55."

Children: — Born in Easthampton.

-41 Martha, 4 bapt. Mar. 14, 1715; m. Lemuel Pierson, of
Sag Harbor, Apr. 9, 1741.

-42 Cornelius, 4 bapt. Sept. 22, 1717; d. Sept. 15, 1742, "aged

25 yrs."
+ 43 Jeremiah, 4 bapt. Sept. 20, 1719.
+ 44 David, 4 bapt. Jan. 20, 1723.
-45 Rebecca, 4 bapt. May 9, 1725; m. Abraham Mulford, in

1745.
-46 Samuel, 4 bapt. Nov. 27, 1726; d. young.
-47 Mary, 4 bapt. July 9, 1729; d. aged 7 yrs.
-48 Samuel, 4 bapt. Aug. 3, 1729; d. in 1754, without issue.
-49 Phebe, 4 bapt. Nov. 26, 1732; m. David Topin, of Sag

Harbor, Dec, 1746.
+ 50 Abraham, 4 bapt. Sept. 5, 1736.

19. Samuel Stratton 3 {Cornelius, 2 John l ) was baptized at
Easthampton, December 10, 1699. He was living in Fairfield,
Conn., in 1710, probably with his mother's people, his father
having died when Samuel was but five years old. At this time
his uncle, Samuel Hull of Fairfield, was his guardian. April 2,
1728, he married Ruth Piatt of Huntington, L. I. He lived in
Huntington where he owned real estate and was a man of some
prominence. At the age of 86 years he was received into church
membership at Huntington — Rev. Nathan Woodhull, pastor.
He died at New Canaan, Conn., at the home of his daughter,
Mrs. Samuel Silliman, while on a visit there.* In the old cemetery
at New Canaan is a stone to his memory, bearing this peculiar
inscription:

In memory of
Samuel Stratton
of
Long Island
Who departed this life 10th March, A. D. 1791, aged 92 years.
His languished head is at rest.
Its thinking and aching are over.
His quiet immovable breast
Is heaved by affection no more.

Children: — Born at Huntington.

-51 Ruth, 4 m. Dr. Isaac Mulford Huntting of Poughkeepsie,

Nov. 30, 1753.
* New Canaan was then a part of Stamford, Conn.

-52 Elizabeth, 4 m. Samuel Cook Silliman,* of New Canaan,

Conn.
+ 53 Eliphalet, 4 bapt. Jan. 8, 1745.

21. John Stratton 4 (John? John, 2 John 1 ) was the only child
of John and Amy (Conkling) Stratton. He was born in East-
hampton about a month after the death of his father. The record
of his birth on the church books stands thus: "Born Oct. 8, 1721,
John son of John Stratton jr., deceased son of Mr. John Stratton."
June 6, 1744, John Stratton married Mary Gardiner, daughter
of Lion Gardiner, who was born September 19, 1725. Fifteen
years later this entry is found on the church books: "Dec. 16,
1759 John Stratten's wife desceased." There aFe no records of
children on the church books at Easthampton. A family record
says that this John Stratton died leaving only the following

Children:

-54 Ruth, 5 m. Hedges.

-55 Sarah, 5 m. Jessup.

-56 Mary, 5 m. Conklin; d. Sept. 23, 1775.

-57 Hannah, 5 m. Chatfield.

-58 Anna, 5 m. Hildreth.

If this is correct, then this branch of the Stratton name ends
with this family. Anyone having further data will confer a favor
by communicating with the compiler.

24:. Stephen Stratton 4 (John, 3 Stephen, 2 John *) was born
January 15, 1721, and lived in Easthampton as late as April 29,
1779, when his name is found signed to the document declaring
loyalty to the Constitutional Congress. In November, 1754, he
married Ruth Osborn. In his father's will he is given lands at
Montuck. In the Revolution he belonged to the 1st Regt. of
Suffolk County Minute Men, after which the compiler has found
nothing concerning him. The church records at Easthampton
mention only the following

Children :

-59 Ruth, 5 bapt. May 1, 1760.

-60 Jonathan, 5 d. July 21, 1775.

* Or "Gold" Silliman, as some records have it.

A family tradition has it that Ruth (Osborn) Stratton died
early, that Stephen married again and that there were other
children.

26. John Stratton 4 (John, 3 Stephen, 2 John *) was baptized at
Easthampton, October 17, 1725. The record of his marriage has
not been found, but he seems to have been living in his native
town as late as 1759, when he is mentioned in his father's will.

Children: — Baptized at Easthampton.

-61 John, 5 bapt. May 3, 1750.

-62 Henry, 5 bapt. 1752; d. at sea, Jan. 10, 1768.

-63 Frederick, 5 bapt. Sept., 1753.

-64 Selvanus, 5 bapt. 1757; d. Oct. 13, 1772.

-65 A son, 5 bapt. July 8, 1760.

In the record of baptism the name of this son is not given.
There may have been other children.*

28. Samuel Stratton 4 (John, 3 Stephen, 2 John 1 ) was baptized
March 23, 1729, and is named in his father's will in 1759. This
is probably the Samuel Stratton who died in Easthampton,
April 17, 1790; whose estate was administered by his widow
Sarah, and who had the following

Children: — Born in Easthampton.

+ 66 Samuel, 5 bapt. Jan. 2, 1765. See Vol. II.

-67 Sarah, 5 bapt. Apr. 4, 1766.

And there may have been others.

29. Matthew Stratton 4 (John, 3 Stephen, 2 John 1 ) was born
in Easthampton and received baptism in the church there July 4,
1730. He learned the weaver's trade, but lived on the home farm

* The church records of this period are very incomplete, only a part of
the births are given. One leaf of the Record appears to be lost, containing
entries of deaths for 1760-63. Very few marriages are recorded from 1754
to 1793. January 1, 1793, the minister of the church makes this entry: "I
have for a long couse of years omited puting down marraiges — which I think
has been a faulty omission — which I mean to remedy for the Future." Many
of these omissions must be supplied from family records — or remain forever
"missing links." It is sincerely desired that any one having further data
may communicate with the compiler, that a future volume may be more com-
plete.

inherited from his father. He was one of the executors of his
father's will in 1759, and signed the document declaring his

loyalty to Congress in 1779. He married Phoebe , who

died in 1775. His second wife died in 1818, aged 75 years. Mat-
thew made his will February 3, 1792, and it was proved May 20,
1807.

Children: — Born in Easthampton.

+ 68 John, 5 only son mentioned in his father's will. See Vol. II.

-69 Elizabeth, 5 b. 1769.

-70 Samuel, 5 bapt. Jan. 13, 1771; perhaps this is the Samuel
Stratton who was drowned at Easthampton, Sept. 3,
1784.

-71 Martha, 5 mentioned in father's will.

-72 Phoebe, 5 b. May 12, 1776; m. Thomas Conkling.

35. Joseph Stratton 4 (Joseph, 3 Cornelius, 2 John J ) was born
in Huntington, L. I., and baptized in the church there Novem-
ber 19, 1724. He married Ruth Wicks, in Huntington, May 13,
1747.

Child: — Born in Huntington.

+ 73 Jonathan, 5 bapt. Jan. 13, 1748. See Vol. II.

No other children are recorded at Huntington, and no other
records of Joseph 4 are found there. He probably removed to
Fairfield, Conn., where his brothers had settled, and where his
son, Jonathan, 5 married Mary Godfrey.*

36. John Stratton 4 {Joseph 3 Cornelius, 2, John l ) was born in
Huntington, L. I., and baptized in the church there October 22,
1727. He married Grace Osborn,f January 18, 1749, and
settled in Fairfield, where his father had lived when a boy, and
where he had many relatives. He was a Revolutionary soldier,
enlisting, with his three sons, in Captain Deamon's company of

* They were married by Rev. Daniel Buckingham of Westport Congre-
gational Church, Fairfield County, Conn.

t "She was a daughter of David and Dorothy (Buckley) Osborne, grand-
daughter of John and Sarah (Bennett) Osborne, and great-granddaughter of
Captain Richard Osborne, the first of that name in this country." S. V. S.

Fairfield, — Colonel Beebe's regiment. He died in Fairfield,
February 2, 1817, aged 90 years, and was buried in the churchyard
there. His wife died at the age of 83 years.
Children: — Born in Fairfield, Conn.
+ 74 Joseph, 5 b. 1751; d. 1827. Settled in Roxbury, N. Y.

See Vol. II.
+ 75 Stephen, 5 b. 1754; d. 1842. Settled in Thompsonville,

Sullivan County, N. Y. See Vol. II.
+ 76 Samuel, 5 b. 1755; d. 1838. One of the first settlers of

Roxbury, N. Y. See Vol. II.
-77 Elizabeth, 5 bapt. Jan. 27, 1760; m. Daniel Bradley.
-78 Grace, 5 bapt. July 6, 1763; m. Thomas (?) Darrow.
-79 Dorothy, 5 bapt. Apr., 1765.

40. Cornelius Stratton 4 (Joseph* Cornelius, 2 John x ) was
born in Huntington in 1737. He married Abigail Hull of Fair-
field, Conn., August 15, 1764. She died at the age of 70 years.
He served in the French and Indian War, August 7th to 23d, 1757,
in Captain Daniel Bradley's company, Colonel Andrew Burr's
regiment. "Rode his own horse from Fairfield." Served in
Captain Nash's company in the Revolution in 1777. He died
at West Farms, near Fairfield, August 11, 1810. Abigail, his
widow, died February 21, 1813.

Children: — Baptized at West Farms church*

-80 Mary, 5 bapt. June 3, 1765; m. Seth Wakeman, Apr. 4,
1784.

-81 Clarrisa, 5 bapt. Apr. 19, 1767; m. Gideon Wakeman, Jr.,
Dec. 8, 1783.

-82 Sarah, 5 bapt. 1769; m. Thomas Bennett.

-83 Eunice, 5 bapt. June 9, 1771; m. Wm. B. Smith, Feb. 11,
1796.

-84 Abigail, 5 bapt. May 2, 1773; m. Joseph Barlow Gor-
ham, Nov. 16, 1763.

— 85 Joseph, 5 bapt. Jan. 14, 1775; d. June 4, 1775.

+ 86 Hull, 5 bapt. June 30, 1776. See Vol. II.

* These records are now in the town clerk's office at Fairfield. This church
was organized in 1763. A part of Fairfield became Weston in 1787, and later
a part of Weston became Westport, and a part Eastport.

+ 87 Eliphalet, 5 bapt. Apr. 18, 1779. See Vol. II.
-88 Debby, 5 bapt. Aug. 3, 1783; d. June, 1784.

43. Jeremiah Stratton 4 (Eliphalet, 3 Cornelius, 2 John 1 ) was
baptized in Easthampton by Rev. Nathaniel Huntting, Septem-
ber 20, 1719. He married Elizabeth Baker, September 14,
1741; was admitted to church membership August 22, 1742, and
was named as one of the executors of his father's will in 1744.
About 1747 he removed to Southampton, L. I., where in 1762-3
he owned a lot of land in partnership with his brother Abraham.
He seems to still have been living in Southampton in 1765; when
the records say: "We laid out 3 lotts to the southward and pro-
ceeded to Jeremiah Stratton 's well." After this the Southampton
records give nothing concerning him. No will of his has been
found, and no settlement of estate, although much search has been
made for the same.

Children: — Born in Easthampton.

-89 Elizabeth, 5 bapt. Aug. 22, 1742.

-90 Chloe, 5 bapt. July 8, 1744.

-91 Priscilla, 5 bapt. Mar. 23, 1746.
Probably born in Southampton.

— 92 A son, 5 mentioned in his uncle's will. See will of David
Stratton 4 (44).

It is more than probable that there were other children born
in Southampton. Daniel Stratton, who served in the First Regi-
ment, Suffolk County Militia, during the Revolution, is thought
to have belonged to this family.

44. David Stratton 4 (Eliphalet, 3 Cornelius, 2 John : ) was born
in Easthampton in 1723. He married Jemima Howell, daughter
of Edward Howell of Southampton. April, 1767, David Stratton
and his wife "owned ye covenant" and were received into church
membership. He died January 6, 1770. The record of his death
is at Easthampton, but in his will, dated December 9, 1769, he is
said to be "of Southampton."

Child : — Born in Easthampton.

-93 David, 5 bapt. Apr. 10, 1768. See footnote under David 3
(22) Richard 1 .

WILL OF DAVID STRATTON *

1769

In the Name of God Amen — I David Stratton of Easthampton
in the County of Suffolk and Province of New York Yeoman &
being indisposed in Body but of sound and perfect mind and
memory and calling to mind the mortality of my Body How
precarious and uncertain my life I do make and ordain this my
last will and Testament in the form and manner following —

Imprimis — I will order and direct that all my just Debts be
paid by my Executors, out of my movable estate in a reasonable
Time after my Decease —

Item I give unto my beloved wife Jemima the use and Im-
provement of all my Estate real and personal after my just Debts
are paid as long as she shall remain my widow for her support
and to the Intent that she shall bring up my Child in a suitable
and proper manner that is to say until my son shall arrive at the
age of twenty one Years, but if it should so happen that my s d
wife should marry before my s d son shall arrive at the age of
twenty one years then and in such case my Will is that my s d
wife Jemima shall have one third part of all my movable Estate
and the Improvement of two thirds of my Lands until my said
son shall arrive at age and also the use of one half of my house
and buildings during her natural life —

Item I give unto my beloved son David Stratton his heirs
and assigns for ever all the rest residue and remainder of my
Estate real and personal Lands and Tenements Goods and Chat-
tels of what nature or kind soever or wheresoever scituated when
he shall arrive at the age of twenty one Years but if it should so
happen that my said son David should die before he shall arrive
at Age or without lawful Issue then and in such case my Will is
that my wife Jemima shall have the use and improvement of all
my Lands and Buildings during her natural Life and after her
decease to go to the son of my Brother Jeremiah Stratton and the
son of my late Brother Abraham Stratton to be equally divided
between them their heirs and assigns forever. Lastly I do hereby
constitute and appoint my friends Jeremiah Miller Jun. and

* Surrogate's Office, City of New York, Book of Wills, No. 27, page 500.

Thomas Osborn joynt Executors of this my last Will and Testa-
ment.

In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this
ninth day of December Anno Domini one thousand seven hun-
dred and sixty-nine.

David Stratton l. s.

Signed, sealed, pronounced and declared by him the sd David
Stratton as and for his last Will and Testament in presence of us

Daniel Hedges, Jeremiah Miller the 4th, John Chatfield.

50. Abraham Stratton 4 (Eliphalet* Cornelius, 2 John l ) was
baptized at Easthampton, September 5, 1736. By trade he was

"a joyner." He married Eunice , a widow, and went to

live in Southampton as early, at least, as 1758, and bought land
there and a windmill. He owned, also, considerable stock which
grazed upon the "commons" around Southampton, and the town
records give his "earmark" thus: "Crop on each ear, 2 over
clefts." His will, made September 8, 1762, names only three
children, all under age. This will was probated in 1763.

Children: — Named in father's will.

-94 Eunice. 5

+ 95 Abraham, 5 b. 1760. See Vol. II.

+ 96 Eliphalet, 5 settled in New York State. See Vol. II.

WILL OF ABRAHAM STRATTON *
1762

In the Name of God Amen I Abraham Stratton of Southamp-
ton in the County of Suffolk and Colony of New York Joyner
being week in Body but of sound mind and memory thanks be
given to God for the same but calling to mind the mortality of the
Body and that it is appointed for all men once to Die do make
and ordain this my last Will and Testament that is to say - princi-
pally and first of all I recommend my Soul, into the hands of
Almighty God and my body I recommend to the earth to be
buried in a decent Christian Burial at the discretion of my Execu-
tors hereafter named nothing doubting but at the General resur-
rection I shall receive the same again by the mighty power of

Surrogate's Office, City of New York, Book of Wills, No. 24, page 15.

God and as touching such worldly estate wherewith it hath
pleased God to bless me, withall I Will and bequeath in the man-
ner and form following viz :

Imprimis I will and bequeath unto my loving Wife Eunice
Stratton the one third of all my Lands and the one third of all
my moveable Estate to be her during her natural life likewise I
give unto my said Wife two of my best Cows and Eight of my best
Sheep likewise I give unto my said Wife all and everything be-
longing to her at the time of my marriage that was given her by
her former husband furthermore my will and Order is that my
said Wife have the improvements of all my Lands during the
time she remains my Widow except such land as I have Ordered
to be sold and as my Children shall arrive to age or marriage I
Will and order they receive their respective Legacies hereafter
mentioned. Imprimis I Will and bequeath unto my Loving
Daughter Eunice Stratton the sum of twenty five pounds to be
to her and to her heirs and assigns forever.

Imprimis I Will and bequeath unto my loving son Abraham
Stratton a lott of Land known by the name of Hains Lott likewise
a piece of Land lying in partnership with Jeremiah Stratton and
a piece of Meadow land lying on the south side of the Road at a
place called Towd at North Sea with the one half of my Right at
Meantauket and the one half of all my Commonage to be to him
and to his heirs and assigns forever.

Imprimis I will and bequeath unto my loving son, Eliphelet
Stratton a Lott of land containing twelve acres adjoyning to
Jeremiah Strattons home Lott likewise a piece of Wood land
which I bought of David Corwithe containing half a fifty
in the North side Lott and a piece of Meadow lying on the
North side of the road at a place called Towd at North Sea
with one half of my Right at Meantauket and the one half of
all my Commonage to be to him and to his heirs and Assigns
forever.

Imprimis I Will and Order that the lott of land I bought of
Jesse Jennings be sold and the money arising therefrom to be to
the use of my son Eliphelet Stratton and to his heirs and assigns
forever.

Imprimis I Will and Order that the one half of the Wind Mill
belonging to me be sold and the money arising therefrom to be

The Old Mill at Easthampton
From Stratton Genealogy

Stratton Homestead, College Point, Long Island

Built by Elephalet Stratton in 1792. (53, chart D, page 38.)

From Stratton Genealogy, by S. V. Stratton, Sr.

equally divided between my two Sons to be to them and to their
heirs and assigns forever.

Imprimis My Will and Order is that if either of my sons
marry under age and should have Issue and then Die before he
arrive to age then his Legacy shall not go to his surviving Brother
but shall go to the Issue above mentioned but if either of my sons
Die without Issue and under age then his part to go to the sur-
viving Brother and if my Daughter Die before marriage and
under age then her part to be divided between the two Brothers.
My Will and Order is that after my Just debts are satisfied and
Legacies paid from the moveable Estate if any money remains I
would have it equally divided between my two sons.

Imprimis I constitute and appoint my trusty friends Capt
Silas Cook and Israel Hallsey my Sole Executors to this my last
Will and Testament In Witness whereof I have hereunto set
my hand and seal this Eighth day of September in the year of
our Lord 1762.

Abraham Stratton l. s.

Signed Sealed and Delivered Published Pronounced and De-
clared by Abraham Stratton to be his last Will and Testament in
presence of us

David Cooper, David Cooper Juener, Joseph Gibbs.

53. Eliphalet Stratton 4 (Samuel? Cornelius, 2 John x ) was
baptized at Huntington, January 8, 1745. His early life was spent
in his native town. September 15, 1767, he married Mary Valen-
tine of East Chester, New York. They became the parents of
eight children. After her death, at the age of sixty-two years, he
married Lucretia Dale. He was an energetic business man and
accumulated considerable property. He moved from Huntington
to a farm of 350 acres which he purchased from Abraham Law-
rence about 1787 — land bought from the Indians by William
Lawrence in 1650. This farm was near Flushing, L. I., and was
thereafter known as Strattonport. About 1857 a large part of the
farm was laid out into village lots and incorporated as College
Point. The Stratton homestead was built in 1792. Mr. Stratton
was an active member of the Episcopal Church. He died at the
age of 85 years, December 31, 1831, and is buried in the church-
yard at Flushing.

A Book of Steattons

Children : — Born at Huntington.

- 97 Elizabeth, 5 b. 1773; m. Thomas Lawrence.

- 98 Samuel, 5 d. about 1810; left no descendants.

- 99 Mary, 5 m. William Prince.
100 Hannah 5 .

-101 Jane, 5 m. Gabriel Winter.

-102 Ruth, 5 d. unm.

-103 Amelia, 5 m. John F. Cornfield of England.

+ 104 Piatt, 5 b. 1787. See Vol II.

-105 Lewis, 5 d. in South America; left no descendants.

Old Church at Easthampton, in Which
Eight Generations of Strattons Wor-
shiped. Torn down in 1861

STRATTONS OF THE EASTERN SHORE,
VIRGINIA

"And I found a register of the genealogy of them which came
up at the beginning."

Nehemiah vii, 5.

IN 1615 the secretary of the Virginia Company sent "10 men and
10 soldiers" to the "land across the waters," to catch fish and
make salt for the parent colony at Jamestown. Thus began the
settlement of the Eastern Shore of Virginia at "Dale's Gift" on
Old Plantation Creek. Five years later another settlement was
made a few miles away, which took the Indian name of Acco-
macke. The early history and traditions of this "land beyond
the waters" is of intense interest. In 1622 when the great Indian
massacre took place along the James, it was contemplated moving
the entire company to the Eastern Shore. The aborigines of this
shore were, according to tradition, the most timid, peaceable and
kind-hearted of any of the Indians found on the continent. These
early settlements grew and multiplied, and in 1632 were organized
as Accomacke County. On the 2d of March, 1642, the name was
changed to Northampton, in honor of Colonel Obedience Robins
who came from Northamptonshire, Eng. In 1663 Northampton
was divided and the northern part became Accomacke County.
The first church on the shore was built on Old Plantation Creek.
The exact location is not known. The second was at Arlington
Gate — nothing but a few bricks surrounded by dilapidated tombs
(among them the tombs of the Custis family) are left to mark the
spot where it stood.

Hunger's Parish was established in 1634. Rev. Wm. Cotton
was its first minister. The present Hunger's Church was built
about 1690. It is located on the north side of Hunger's Creek,
near the old village of Bridgetown. Among the vestrymen elected
June 22, 1691, was Benjamin Stratton.* The Strattons were early

* The vestrymen elected that day were Major John Robins, Captain Custis,

a prominent family on the Shore. Their estate was "Stratton
Manor," near Old Plantation Creek, not far from Cape Charles
City. Their descendants are connected by marriage with many
of the old families of eastern Viriginia.*

Later, one branch of the family came into possession of "Old
Castle" and "Elkington " in Northampton County.

THOMAS STRATTON 1 OF THE EASTERN SHORE
(See Chart E)

1. Thomas Stratton married Alice . At what date

they came to America is not known. In 1632, Alice, widow of
Thomas Stratton, was living on the Eastern Shore with her two
children. In 1636 she was granted 200 acres of land "for trans-
porting into Virginia Thomas Stratton, herself and two others."
Later she married Henry Bagwell, town clerk of Accomacke
County, and by him had several children — among them, John and
Thomas Bagwell. Only two children of Thomas and Alice Stratton
have been found. There may have been others. f

Children:

+ 2 Thomas, 2 first mentioned in Accomacke County in 1632.

-3 Mary, 2 m. Handy.

2. Thomas Stratton 2 (Thomas *) was b by 1632,
whether in England or Virginia is not known.

Captain Foxcroft, John Shepheard, Benjamin Stratton, Priece Davis, Benja-
min Nottingham, John Powell, Jacob Johnson, Thomas Eyre, John Stoakley,
Michael Dickson. This election took place soon after the present Hungars
church building was erected.

* Among these families are Wilkins, Harmanson, Stoakley, Digges, Nivison,
Parsons, Parker, Tazewell, Nottingham and others — names coeval with the
first settlements of Virginia.

Northampton County has a fine lot of old records. They are only partly
indexed, however, and not in good shape for examination. A more exhaustive
research than the author has been able to make might bring to light additional
data on this interesting line of Strattons, and discover some still "missing
links" connecting unidentified Strattons of later generations, with this line.
The reader will confer a favor by notifying the compiler of any error, or con-
tributing any further information concerning the Eastern Shore Strattons.

t The following Strattons, found mentioned on the early Virginia records
are yet unaccounted for: — May 9, 1638, and March 27, 1651, land was granted

Stratton Manor, Northampton Co., Va.
Built before 1657, remodeled in 1764. (Pages 142-146.)

Among the old records at Eastville is this: "Thomas Stratton
of Northampton County. The mark of his cattle as followeth:
Croped & slitt on ye right eare overbitten & holed on ye left eare;
giving notice to the clerke to record By me Thomas Stratton,
Sept. 7, 1651." This same year, 1651, he was deeded 100 acres
of land by his mother, Mrs. Alice Bagwell. He was probably at
least twenty-one years of age at this time and so born as early as
1630. November 27, 1657, he was granted 300 acres of land in
Northampton County "on the Ridge southerly on Dun Branch."
This land was "granted by the right of emigration of Thomas and
Alice Stratton," and formed a part of the large estate later known
as "Stratton Manor" — and still known by that name, although
it passed out of the hands of the Strattons about fifty years ago
(1858), having been in possession of the Stratton family for eight
generations. Thomas Stratton's name appears on the court
records several times from 1657 to 1660. In 1658 he served on
the jury "by an order from the court at James City, likewise by
an order of the Court of Northampton County." He married
Agnes Johnson, who survived him. At a court holden in North-
ampton County, August 3, 1660, it is ordered "yt Mrs. Agnes
Stratton be paid out of the estate of Robert Fisher six hundred
and ninety-seven pounds of tobacko & cask, being ye balance of

to John Stratton, Lower Norfolk County, Va. The 150 acres granted him in
1651 was for transporting to the colony John Franklin, Margaret Heath and
Patience Tomlins. (See Virginia Land Grants.) The records of Lower Norfolk
(now Princess Anne County) give no evidence of his ever having lived there.
What John Stratton was this?

In 1646, 100 acres of land was granted to Robert Harrison and Sissley
Stratton. No other mention is found of Sissley Stratton.

August 16, 1658, certificate was given to Elizabeth Stratton, widow, for
300 acres, for bringing into Virginia Elizabeth Wilkins, William Damson,
Edmund Moore, Elenor Edwards, Daniel Freesell and John Power. (See
Certificates of Headrights, Virginia.) Nothing more is known of this Elizabeth
Stratton, and the 300 acres of land is not located.

June 8, 1673, John Stratton appears at court in Accomack County, with a
complaint against John Watts. Request is referred to next court.

During Bacon's Rebellion, in 1676 a paper concerning the killing of a cow
belonging to Morris Dennis, is signed by John Stratton, commissary, of Acco-
mack, and in 1677 John Stratton of Accomack lost a shallop in Warwick Creek
Bay. It had been used "in his Majistie's service against the late Rebells by
order of Sir Wm. Berkeley, Governor of Virginia." Nothing more is known of
this John Stratton.

her account for salary, expenses expended and disbursed by her
late husband, deceased." Thomas Stratton died in 1659 — between
October 13 and November 2.

Children: — Born at Stratton Manor.

+ 4 Benjamin, 3 b. 1657; d. 1717.

— 5 Ann, 3 named in father's will.

It will be seen that these are the only children mentioned in
the father's will. There may have been a son born after the death
of his father. A Thomas Stratton died at Stratton Manor, Novem-
ber 3, 1700, aged about 40 years, whose parentage is unaccounted
for. There is no record to show that he left any descendants.

WILL OF THOMAS STRATTON *

1659

In the name of God Amen. I Thos. Stratton, beinge very sick &
weak of body but in perfect sense & memory, God be praised, I
do make & ordain this my last Will & Testament in manner &
form following. Imprimis, I bequeath my soul to the hands of
my maker & redeemer from whence I had it, my body to the earth
hoping for a joyfull resurrection there at the last day and for my
worldly estate I bequeath as follows:

Item, I give and bequeath to my loving wife three cows, two ewes
two yearlinge heifers that was her own and the servt. boy Dorman
and all other household goods whatsoever excepting two pewter
dishes which I give unto my daughter Ann Stratton.

Item, I give & bequeath to my son Benjamin Stratton all my land
this plantation that I live on & that at the head of the seaboard
side & if in case my loving wife sees fit on occasion to sell it for
her own benefit or the boy's which she please that at the seaboard
side also, I give unto my loving wife this land I now live on during
her life & after to my son Benjamin Stratton and his heirs exers.
and admrs. also I give and bequeath to my children Ann Stratton
and Benjamin Stratton, their heirs exrs. & assigns two cows, two
heifers & all the female increase to run on stock together & if in
case one of them dies they must fall to the other & the male to my
loving wife. Also I give to my son & daughter 4 ewes to run in as

* Book of Deeds and Wills, Northampton County, 7, p. 245.

stock together & all the female increase & the male to my wife
only there is to be paid out two ew lambs the next fall, also I give
to my wife my mare and horse & horse colt & my boat & if in case
the mare live & bring increase to put my children in stock with
one or two mare colts as soon as she can, also I give and bequeath
to my sister Handy one ewe lamb to be delivered the next fall
after this that is coming, this to be paid out of the children's
stock if the ewe lives to bring increase. I also give to my brother
John Bagwell my pistell and to my brother Thomas Bagwell my
cutlass, also I desire that my loving wife have the tuition and
bringing up of my daughter Ann Stratton til she be 15 or 16 years
old. If it please God that my wife should be with child now what
I have given to my two children for a stock or portion must serve
for three and as they come of age to have out their share propor-
tionate thereto, like also I ordain my loving wife Agnes Stratton
sole executor of this my last will and testament also paying and
discharging my debts and legacies.

Lastly I do appoint my loving friends and neighbors Mr. William
Millinge & Mr. William Smith overseers of this my last will and
testament whereby my will may be performed & that my wife
may not be wronged nor debarred from her right.

Witness my hand this 13th day of October, 1659.

Thomas Stratton."
Witness:

William Smith, Bartholomew Cories.
Proven in open Court 2nd. day of Nov. 1659.

4. Benjamin Stratton 3 (Thomas, 2 . Thomas *) was born
February 25, 1657. He was "son and heir of Thomas" when in
1662 he was granted 257 acres at Mondries Creek, and 300 acres
on the Ridge southerly on Dun Branch, Northampton County.
November 26, 1682, he was granted two other tracts — 300 acres on
Dun Branch; and 247 acres, "being a neck of land called Ac-
quassa." (Virginia Land Grants, Book 4, p. 537 and Book 7, pp.
197-198.) In addition to the lands which he inherited, and those
granted him, he bought several other tracts as shown by deeds
of Northampton County. It was probably in his day that the
oldest part of the Stratton Manor (still standing) was built, and
built partly of bricks which were brought from England. He

married Ann Wilkins, daughter of Nathaniel Wilkins, who after
her marriage received a tract of land in Northampton, by deed of
gift from her father. She was born February 10, 1662. Benjamin
and Ann Stratton were Episcopalians, members of Old Hunger's
Church, where he was vestryman in 1691. Ann Stratton died
June 16, 1700, "at sundown." Benjamin died October 22, 1717,
aged 60 years. The old Stratton Manor Register is still in existence
— in the possession of a descendant — giving the "Births and
Deaths of the Stratton Family."
Children : — Born at Stratton Manor.

- 6 Agnes, 4 b. Apr. 25, 1684; d. 1711; m. Johnson.

- 7 Ann, 4 b. Aug. 14, 1686; d. Dec. 1, 1702.

- 8 Benjamin, 4 b. June 30, 1688. Supposed to be the Ben-

jamin who died at Stratton Manor, May 28, 1760. No
record of marriage found.

- 9 Nathaniel, 4 b. June 19, 1691; d. Mar. 29, 1709.
+ 10 John, 4 b. 1695; d. 1751.

-11 Thomas, 4 b. Sept. 21, 1697; d. Dec. 19, 1697.
-12 Joseph, 4 b. Dec. 6, 1699; d. May 10, 1700.

Only two of these children, it will be seen, were living at the date
of their father's will, and he names only sons, Benjamin and John,
and the children of his daughter, Agnes.

WILL OF BENJAMIN STRATTON 3

1716

In the name of God Amen, I Benjamin Stratton, of the County
of Northumberland, Va. Knowing the uncertainty of this life,
do make this my last will and Testament. I hereby give unto my
son Benjamin Stratton, all this my Plantation I now live on with
all appertenances belonging, being 247 acres of land to the said
Benjamin Stratton & the heirs of his Body Lawfully Begotten, for
want of such heirs then to my son Jno Stratton.

I give to my son Benjamin Stratton three negroes, Dorotha,
Charles, and David, and my great Bible, one gun called beakes.

I give to my son John Stratton my plantation on ye Seaboard
side which I bought from John Summers, by estimation 100 acres
and 12 acres which I bought Edmond Bobbes, lying in the Pine
Swamp, and 100 acres conveyed to me by Wm. Watterson by

Old Hungers Church, Eastern Shore, Va.
Where Benjamin Stratton was vestryman in 1691. (Pages 141-142.)

deed 30th Sept. 1695 to him and his heirs, and for want of such
heirs to my son Benjamin Stratton.

I give to my son John Stratton one young negro called George,
my best feather bed, bolsters & pillows, bed curtains & Valence,
one pair of my best and largest sheets, Quilt & Blanket. One
Iron Pot, about 4 gallons, Iron Kettle, about 4 gallons, one new
pine cupboard, made by Andrew Hooper, one Walnut table,
about five or six feet long, my long gun called Rede, and all the
cash I have now in my possession. My will is that my son John
Stratton have sufficient house room for himself and negro, till
he can provide himself with a house.

I give my grand son Benjamin Johnson a negro or Mallatto girl
called Mary, except the first child the said Mary shall bring that
lives one year after it is delivered, which my will and desire is and
I do give to my grand daughter Ann Johnsonn. If it should please
God to take them out of the world, I do give the negro or Mallatto
and her increase to my heirs in common law.

I give to my grand son Benjamin Johnson my Carbine.

I give to my grand daughter Ann Johnson a thirty five shilling
piece Gould called a Portugal Mayder, one set of Linen Curtains &
Valence.

I give to my grand son and daughter Benjamin and Ann John-
son, 4 heifers, 2 of 2 years old, 2 of 3 years old, 4 young Ewes and
Lambs, 1 dozen huckback napkins equally.

all to remain in the hands of my execator untill they are of age or
marry.

I will that my son Benjamin Stratton have full power & liberty
to bet what timber he hath occation to make use of from his plan-
tation, without making waste or spoil from the said 100 acres 3
give my son Jno. Stratton.

I give all the rest of my estate unto my two sons Benjamin and
Jno. Stratton, and if my sons cannot agree to divide, then they are
to each of them to choose a man, to divide they to stand by the
division, the negroes included.

Benj. Stratton seal.
Witnesses:

John Robins, Richard Thorman,

Appoints two sons Benjamin and Jno. Stratton executors
Dated 29. July 1716. Probated Nov. 19th, 1717.

10. John Stratton 4 (Benjamin, 9 Thomas, 2 Thomas 1 ), b. at
Stratton Manor, March 21, 1695. By his father's will he in-
herited "ye plantation at ye seaboard side," and in want of heirs
to his oldest brother, Benjamin, 4 he was to have also the home
plantation. There is no evidence that John 4 ever owned the Manor
property — it is not mentioned in his will, and the births of his
children are not found in the Stratton Manor Register. His son,
Benjamin, 5 did own it, however, and it has been in the possession
of Benjamin's descendants until the present generation.* John
Stratton must have been a man of considerable prominence on
the Eastern Shore. In 1729 he was granted 152 acres of land on
the sea-board side, and in 1732, he received a grant of 252 acres at
the head of Knight Gut. This last grant he probably sold, as
no mention is made of it in his will. The 152 acres he willed
to his sons. He had other dealings in real estate, buying
and selling lands in different parts of the county, as shown by
deeds.

He married Susannah , who survivied him and was

living in 1754.f He was High Sheriff of Northampton County in
1732-4. Among his descendants are men well known in Virginian
history. He died April 15, 1751, "about sunrise."

Children :

+ 13 Benjamin, 5 b. 1721; d. 1784; m. Elizabeth Stewart;
remodeled Stratton Manor, where he lived, and where
his children were born. See Vol. II.

— 14 Thomas, 5 b. 1722-3; living in Northampton County in
1758; further records concerning him, or his descend-
ants, desired.

+ 15 John, 5 b. 1726; d. 1795; m. Gertrude Tazewell; father

* How Benjamin 5 came into possession of Stratton Manor, is an interesting
question which it is hoped future research may determine. It is suggested
here that he may have received it from his Uncle Benjamin 4 who seems to
have died without issue.

t The compiler has been unable to find the family name of Susanna. A
thorough search of wills, and deeds of gift, of this period in Northampton
might discover it. She may have been the second wife and this John Stratton
who married Esther Harmanson before 1720. Was it through his marriage
(first, or second?) that the Strattons came into possession of "Elkington?"
The Harmansons were a fine old family on the Eastern Shore and were
connected by marriage, before 1690, with the Elkingtons.

Elkixgton, or " New Castle '
Situated on a branch of Hungers Creek, 2 miles from " Old Castle."
Built in 1799. Home of Hon John Stratton, member of Congress, 1801-03.
(Pages 142, 148.)

"Old Castle," Northampton- Co., Va.
On Cherrystone creek, commanding a beautiful view down the creek
to Chesapeake Bay. Built by John Stratton (No. 10, chart E) about
1721; remodelled in 1794. (Page 142.)

of John Stratton, Jr., member of Congress, 1801-03.
See Vol. II.

— 16 Susannah, 5 m. John Wilkins.

+ 17 Nathaniel, 5 m. Elicia ; d. 1768-9; his widow

d. about 1780, leaving a will. See Vol. II.

-18 William, 5 probably d. between Feb. 14, 1750, and Apr. 11,
1751.

— 19 Agnes, 5 m. Wilkins.

WILL OF JOHN STRATTON 4

1750-1751

In the name of God Amen. I, John Stratton of Northampton
County Virginia, being of perfect sense and memory, do make and
ordain this my last will & testament in manner & form following:
First & Principally I recommend my soul to God my creator,
hoping through the merits of my Savior Jesus Christ to receive a
joyful resurrection and as to what Worldly Estate God in his
mercy has been pleased to bestow upon me, I dispose of the same
in manner and form following: Item, I give and bequeath to my
son Benjamin Stratton one hundred & fifty two acres of land which
I have Pattent for in my own name bearing date the 27 day of
Sept. 1729, and 12 acres in the Piney Swamp and 60 acres of land
more, forty of which I purchased of one Southey Rew as appears
for same, recorded in the County Ct. of Northampton, the other
20 a. lying between the land of Maj. Peter Bowdoin deed, and
Mary Johnson's formerly, which I purchased of Elias Dunton and
Abegale his wife, to him and the hiers of his body, lawfully be-
gotten forever, always provided that my said son Benjamin & his
heirs, when he or they shall be required, shall make over and con-
vey by deed a good and absolute estate in fee simple to my son
Thomas Stratton and his heirs in a 100 acres of land with warranty
to my said son Thomas and his heirs as aforesaid, which said 100
acres of land lies on the Bay side in the County aforesaid joining
westerly upon the land of Marriot Parsons' lands formerly and
northerly upon the land of Luke Shaw and Abigale his wife,
Easterly on the land of Preeson Bowdoin and southerly upon the
land of William Scott, which said 100 acres of land was given by
my dead father to me and my heirs lawfully begotten of my body

forever, and my will is that if my said son Thomas shall sell the
said 100 acres of land that it shall not be in his power to sell it to
any person but his brother Benjamin, provided he will pay as
good a price to be judged by two men appointed for that purpose,
but if my said son Benjamin his heirs shall not make such deed as
aforesaid to my said son Thomas and his heirs then I give what I
have and shall give by this will to my son Benjamin to my son
Thomas and his heirs forever. I also give unto my son Benjamin
1 negro fellow called David, my still head and worm & tube and
also what he hath received already from me in the same manner &
form as the other gifts given him. Item: I give unto my son
Thomas Stratton all my right title and interest in the said 100
acres of land lying and being in this County, where my son Ben-
jamin Stratton now liveth which was given to me by my dec'd
father to him and his heirs forever, but in case my son Benjamin
Stratton shall think fit to pay to his brother Thomas Stratton sixty
pounds current of Virginia in lieu of the land given to my son
Thomas Stratton then I give the aforesaid land to my son Benja-
min Stratton and all the other legacies I have already given him
the said Benjamin Stratton. Item: My further will and desire
is that my wife Susanna Stratton hath the whole use of my planta-
tion I now live on during her widowhood and no longer to bring
up my children and in case my son Benjamin Stratton or his
heirs should refuse that liberty then and in that case I give all
the land that I bought out of Charles Gildings land for the use
aforesaid and then to my son Thomas Stratton as aforesaid.
Item: I give and bequeath to my son Nathaniel Stratton fifty
pounds current money of Virginia and my smith's tools, 1 horse
saddle & bridle, my pistoles & holsters and sword, one years
schooling and my gun called Reed. Item: I give unto my son
William Stratton fifty pounds as aforesaid, my silver shoe buckles
1 horse, saddle and bridle, my best suit of clothes, 1 year's school-
ing and my little gun. Item: I give unto my daughter Agnes my
negro woman called Sarah & her daughter called Dinah and their
future increase to my said daughter and her heirs forever. Item:
I. give to my son John Stratton 25 pounds. Item: I give to my
daughter Susanna Stratton my negro girl called Rachael and her
future increase to my daughter and her heirs forever, one silver
spoon and a warming pan, 1 horse briddle and saddle. Item: I

give the use of my negro called Hager and her increase to my
daughter Anne Jacob during her natural life and after her decease
then the said wench and her increase to be equally divided between
all the children of my said daughter Anne. I give her 1 silver
spoon. Item: I give all the Remainder of my negroes to be equally
divided between my following children, viz. Thomas, John, Su-
sanna, Nathaniel and William, to them and their heirs forever.
Item: I give my grandson John Stratton 1 cow and calf. Item:
I give unto my son Benjamin Stratton 6 sheep. Item, All the rest
of my estate I give to my wife and following children, viz., Thomas,
John, Susanna, Nathaniel, William and Agnes, to be equally
divided amongst them upon the death or marriage of my said wife,
which may first happen. Item I give unto my daughter Agnes 1
year's schooling and one silver spoon. Item: My will and desire
is that my loving wife Susanna hath the whole use of my estate
during her widowhood & no longer

Item: It is my will that my estate be not appraised and I desire
that my two friends, John Wilkins senr. and Major Edward Robins
will be so kind as to assist my wife in the execution of this my will
and to observe that my children have justice done them in the
division of my estate. Lastly I nominate and appoint my loving
wife Susanna my sole Executrix of this my last will and testament
revoking all former wills by me heretofore made. In witness
whereof I have to this my said last will sett my hand the 14th.
day of Feb. 1750.

John Stratton.

Signed published and declared by the said John Stratton to be
his last will in the presence of

Robert Warren jr., Thomas Moore, James Bassford.

My will and desire is that what I had given to my son William
Stratton by my last will I give to my son Thomas Stratton 22
pounds 10 shillings, all the other legacies given in that Paragraph
I give to my son Nathaniel Stratton 22 pounds 10 shillings, the
other legacies and my wearing apparel to be equally divided
between my sons Thomas and Nathaniel Stratton. Item I give
to my son John Stratton 5 pounds more than is before given him.
I nominate my loving wife Susanna my sole executrix of this my
last will and testament, revoking all former wills by me heretofore

made. In witness whereof I have to this my said last will set my
hand the 11th. day of April 1751. I nominate my son Benjamin
Stratton my sole executor in case of his mother's death and if he
refuses my son John Stratton. I desire my will shall stand all
but the gift I made my son William Stratton.

John Stratton.

It will be seen that John Stratton 4 died four days after adding
the codicil to the above will. In the settlement of his estate in
1752, his son William was not mentioned. He probably died be-
tween the making of the will and the adding of the codicil. Na-
thaniel was not of age when the estate was settled.

John, Jr., may have been given land by deed of gift from his
father before the will was made. At any rate, soon after his
father's death he owned land in Northampton County.

ff t rjilf

* A', * . • . -4*

"^9 i, '

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o

o ft.

" Tell ye your children of it, and let them tell their children,
and their children another generation."

Joel i, 3.

WATERTOWN, on the Charles River, was founded by Puri-
tan immigrants who arrived in the "Lady Arbella" from
England, July 30, 1630. One of the first acts of this little company
was to assemble on the banks of the river for a day of fasting and
prayer, when a paper was drawn up and signed " in order to coales-
cence into a church estate." This is the often quoted " Watertown
Covenant," — a long, quaint, old document. About a month later,
the Court of Assistants, sitting at Charlestown, ordered that
" Tri-mountain be called Boston; Mattapan, Dorchester; and the
town on the Charles river, Watertown." * The first winter in
Watertown was one of much suffering. "Shell-fish, ground-nuts
and acorns were the only food many could obtain." "One that
came to the Governor's house to complain of his suffering was
prevented, being informed that even these the last batch was in the
oven." (Hutchinson's Hist, of Massachusetts.) But these were a
people not easily daunted. Many had come into the wilderness
from comfortable, prosperous homes in England. They accepted
the suffering and privations as a part of the price they were willing
to pay for freedom of thought and action. Among these people
was formed the first Congregational church in the Massachusetts
Bay Colony — "the first church to openly declare the right of the
congregation to absolute control over its own affairs." "From
Watertown, in 1632, came the first protest heard in America

?The territory then called Watertown embraced what is now Waltham,
Weston and a part of Lincoln. The boundaries between Watertown and
Newtown, Cambridge, Dedham, Concord and Sudbury were established at
different periods between 1634 and 1754.

against taxation without representation." (Fiske's Beginnings in
New England.)

While Savage, in writing of Watertown, says: "With the spirit
of devout piety and trusting faith which marked the Puritan
character in general, there were men of strong convictions with
a sturdy courage to assist them." And this same independence
of thought characterizes many of their descendants, scattered
throughout our country to-day.

Just when the Strattons came to Watertown is not known,
but they were there in 1647 and may have come several years
earlier.* At a town meeting "9th 10 mo: 1647 Samuel Stratton
was chosen surveyor for this yeare cominge." His sons, Samuel,
Jr., and John, in all probability came with him. The third son,
Richard, remained for a while in England, and is probably the
Richard Stratton who came over in the "Speedwell" in April,
1656, when he is said to be from Gravesend, County Kent. If
there were other children they must have remained in England,
for no mention of them is found here, and none others are men-
tioned in Samuel's will.

December 6, 1652, Samuel Stratton, Sr., Samuel Stratton, Jr.,
and John Stratton took the "oath of Fidelity," and their names
appear on the muster roll of a company of Watertown Militia.
The men of this muster roll maintained the company and held
themselves ready to be called out at any time. (See Chart G.)

Samuel, Sr., was at this time sixty years old. The following
year he was made a "freeman." f In 1656 he was chosen with
the deacons "to have the ordering of the sitting of persons in the
meeting-house." His home was on the northerly side of Mount
Auburn Street — near where later stood James R. Lowell's home
— then a part of Watertown, now a part of Cambridge.

As early, at least, as 1667 another John Stratton appeared at
Watertown. (See Chart H.)

* Watertown was the fourth town constituted in Massachusetts Bay Colony.
Only one town in the state has older original records. These records — town
and church — are kept with the greatest care and minuteness, so that from
them we get many delightful glimpses into the home and business life of those
early days.

t To be made a freeman before 1662 a man must be a member of the church
— "must own ye covenant." Under the new charter in 1662, property right,
or estate was considered.

The relationship, if any existed, between him and Samuel
Stratton has not been found. He married a daughter of Thomas
and Mary (Knapp) Smith. Thomas Smith was one of the pro-
prietors of Watertown, having been granted land there July 25,
1636, at which date he was one of the 120 freemen of the town.
In 1639 he owned eight lots of land. He died March 10, 1692,
aged 92 years. His will mentions his "loving daughter Mary." *
The Knapps were in Watertown in 1632.

This John Stratton was 25 years old when his name first
appears on Watertown records.

His home was in the west precinct, in that part of Watertown
which later became Waltham. He died there in 1691, aged 49
years, leaving five sons. The inventory of his estate, at the date
of his death, shows that besides the homestead of ten acres, —
with house, barn, stock, household stuffs, a chest, books, arms,
etc., — he owned another piece of land, — fifteen acres, — in Cam-
bridge bounds, f

The name John Stratton appears constantly on the town
records, but as there were two of the same name — men of about
the same age — living there at the same time, and each having a
son John (with but six years difference in age), it is often im-
possible to tell to which John the records refer. The records of
the "town proceedings" are often quaint and puzzling; as are
also the church records. The references of town clerks and pastors
to "John Stratton in ye woods," "John Stratton up in ye town,"
"My neighbor young John Stratton," "John Stratton who owned
ye covenant," — are not always clear.

At various times from 1663 to 1690 a John Stratton was chosen
Surveyor of Highways, constable and tithing-man. May 27,
1663, John Stratton of Watertown was made a "free man." In
1682 John Stratton was selectman. November 3, 1683, and
March 28, 1684, the selectmen's meetings were held at John Strat-
ton's house. £

* This will was made 1688, and was witnessed by George Lawrence, Joseph
Wellington and John Robinson.

t As all research has thus far failed to find any proof of this John Stratton
in New England earlier than 1667 — the date of his marriage in Watertown —
he is treated in this Volume as the emigrant of his line in America, and called
"John Stratton 1 of Watertown."

X 1693, John Stratton, tything man, was appointed "to se that the said

That the early Strattons of Watertown possessed the same
independence of thought which characterized other Watertown
people, there is plenty of proof among the very early original
papers in Cambridge and Boston.

On the records of the Massachusetts Bay Colony, under date of
May 13, 1648, is this enactment: "The corte beinge desirous that
the same cource which has been taken in England for the dis-
covering of witches, by watching, may be also taken here with
the witch now in question & therefore doe order that a strict
watch shall be set about her every night, & that her husband be
confined to a private roome & watched also."

Felt, in his Ecclesiastical History of New England, says that this
passage refers to Margaret Jones, wife of William Jones. She was
executed as a witch June 15, 1648.*

Now, it seems that Samuel and Alice Stratton were not of the
strictest Puritanic stripe, but were generous and liberal in their
thinking, and their treatment of those who differed from them,
and were among the few who cherished a leniency toward the
so-called "witches." From the old, half-effaced court papers of
that period we find that "Samuel Stratton said that Jones's wife
Died wrongfully, and was no witch and that the magistrates
would doe anything for bribes, and the members also." And
that "Ales Stratton said that Good wife Jones dyed wrongfully
and was no more a witch than she was." Hugh Clarke of Water-
town and Roxbury, Mr. Pemberton and wife Eleanor, and Samuel
Durkin were of the same opinion. But these people had to pay
for this "independence of thought."

warehouse be not plased so as to damnify the towne for their cattels coming
to soft water."

1694 John Stratton contributed 10 shillings toward mending the meeting-
house.

1696 John Stratton was one of a committee concerning locating the new
meeting-house.

1696 John Stratton, Sr., and John Stratton, Jr., "descentted" to call Rev.
Mr. Angier to be minister for the whole town.

1706 John Stratton paid £6. 13. 1 toward building "a house to entertaine
the minister in neer the meeting-house."

* This was probably the earliest execution in the region of Boston. William
Jones was arraigned for the same crime, but escaped execution and "petitioned
to go to the Barbadoes." He came to Cambridge from England in the
"Hercules" in 1634.