William* "Guilermo" Comstock

Other Events and Attributes:

• Property: 26 Feb 1770, Smithfield, Providence Co, Rhode Island
• Property: 21 Aug 1770, East Hoosuck, Providence Co, Rhode Island
• Property: 5 Feb 1773, Smithfield, Providence Co, Rhode Island
• Residence: Abt 1776, Hopewell Co, Virginia
• Residence: Bef 1777, Boston, Nelson Co, Kentucky; Amiee born
• Residence: 11 Jun 1786, Opelousas, St. Landry Parish, Louisiana
• Residence: Between 1787 and 1790, Louisiana
• Research Notes: 1998, Terrebonne Parish, Louisiana

Notes:

Posted to St.Landry Parish
He married, 2/21/1765, Rachel Aldrich.

Guillaume of N.E. m Rachel Allredge of N.E. (SM ch)
Alredge, Rachel m Guillaume Cumstock (SM ch)

William and Rachel are firmly placed in RI for several generations up until Rev.War. They then "went west" as did many others.

William Comstock went to Hopewell, Va. and from there to Kentucky (by 1787 when Miriam was born ?? she seems to have married in 1787).

They were associated with the Harned family in Nelson Co., KY. See the "Harned Family of KY." by Arthur L. Keith, in he Kentucky State History. Soc. Register, Vol 29, No. 87.

It is not known when William Comstock came to Louisiana. Daughter Esther was baptised in St. Landry Church at Opelouses 11 June 1786.


_______________
(from email from Dee8514@aol.com)
Children:
Samuel Oliver, b. Smithfield, R.I. about 1768
Miriam, M. Nelson Co., Ky., 12/19/1787, William Harned.
Deborah, died 1829; m. Enos Harned
(There were other children, but no names in my book)

Source: A History and Genealogy of the Comstock Family in America" by Dr. John A. Comstock, pg 59.

I have William's ancesters if you want.
Dee8514@aol.com



Property:
On 2/26/1770, William Comstock of Smithfield, R.I., and Rachel his wife deed his homestead farm of 100 acres on the Oxford Road to Gideon Mowry.

Property:
Aug. 21, 1770, Emily Johnson of East Hoosuck deeds William Comstock of E. Hoosuck 100 acres.

Property:
2/5/1773, William and wife Rachel give deed to Eleazer Brown, 100 acres for 414 lbs. Nathan Comstock a witness.

Residence:
daughter Hester/Ester was baptized on this date in Opelousas, then Louisiana Territory (not a state until 1803) at the age of about 15.


Residence:
determined by daughter Miriam m in Nelson Co, KY in 1787 and dau Esther m in Louisiana in 1790.


Research Notes:
Reply-to: algravois@mobiletel.com
To: lumoto@aol.com

Hi,
Am searching for a William Comstock who was the father of Rosalie Marianne Comstock in the early 1800's. Rosalie is listed in Father Hebert's books as being from New Orleans but married Ursin Augustin Aucoin in 1840 in Thibodaux. She lateried Jean Charles Naquin in
Terrebonne Parish. Comstock is not a common name in those areas, although there is a small family group in lower Terrebonne Parish. I cannot find out anything about William. Any help would be greatly appreciated. Thanks, Patty Whitney Gravois.
___________
From: algravois@mobiletel.com (Albert Gravois)
Reply-to: algravois@mobiletel.com
To: Lumoto@aol.com (Lumoto@aol.com)

Hi Sherry,
I found a Comstock family in Ascension Parish, Louisiana, and see that a William Comstock of New Orleans (maybe my William, father of Rosalie Marie Anne Comstock) was buried in Donaldsonville, Ascension Parish. I was wondering if you recoge any of the names below because
these are names associated with the Ascension Parish Comstocks.
Jean Comstock m. Rosalie Anne McMerrimon
Elizabeth Emilie m. Emile Bourgeois
Adelaide Louise
Jean Comstock
Philippe Edouard Comstock
John Louis Comstock m. Victoire Hortense Terrio
(this John was a sheriff of Ascension Parish shortly before the Civil War?
Marie Clothilde Comstock m. Elphage Capbern
Joseph Henri Comstock
Marie Regina Comstock
Marie Aimee Comstock m. Henry Nores
Marie Mathilde Comstock m. John S. Mavor
Marie Camilla Comstock
John Louis Comstock m. Marie Zulmee Landry
Andre Albert Comstock m. Estelle Marie Hatkinson
Joseph Arthur Comstock
William Comstock b. 25 October 1840
Miriam Helenam Comstock
Philippe Edouard Comstock
Bernard Albert Comstock
Whitney Albert Comstock
Andrew Albert Comstock

Names of Witnesses on various documents:
Bernard Davis, Emile Buquoi, Anna Comstock, Adele Hatkinson, Frederic Francis Duffel, Clemence Duffel, Gustave Israel, Adele Mollere, Jean Baptiste Terio, Emelie Comstock, Francoise Irma Terio, Narcisse Teriot, Adelaide Comstock, Andrew Gingry, Aristide Teriot, Marie Amilie Teriot,Robert Scot, Carmelite LeBlanc, William V. Comstock, Luce Landry, Henry Archinard, Evelina Pujos, L.S. Richard, P. Pourcine, Gerade Comes, C. Boglioli, Caroline Nee, Rev. L.P. Landry, Anne Braud, Olympe Braud,
Henry Nores, Emilie Buquoi, Joseph Baselack, Marie Emilie Guilbaut, Emile Bourgeois, Pierre Dufour, Adelaide Tolliere, Edouard White, Emilie Constance Dumond.

Arthur Comstock and Philip Comstock were members of the Donaldsonville Cannoneers during the Civil War, along with Evariste Aucoin, which is the name of one of the sons of Rosalie Comstock m. Ursin Aucoin.

If any of these names ring a bell with you, I would sure appreciate hearing from you. Thanks, Patty Whitney Gravois.
---------------
Reply-to: algravois@mobiletel.com
To: Lumoto@aol.com (Lumoto@aol.com)

Sherry,
Hi. Just wanted to let you know that I went to the Ascension Parish Courthouse today and found some records on the Comstocks who lived in Ascension. Sadly, most of the documents are in French (and written very, very small). I can make out e of it, but I'll need to get help with the entire documents.
I have found that most of the witnesses on these documents that I told you about were the "elite" of Donaldsonville. They were the people who ran the show, so to speak. John Louis Comstock Sr. listed himself on his marriage record as being fm New Orleans. Also, there is a William V. Comstock listed as a witness.
I have been in touch with the JOHNLYONS group at Rootsweb, who will probably be very helpful in our search for the Merriman connection. I've had some contacts through them who have shown interest and knowledge.
I'll get back with you when I find out more.
Patty.

_______________
From: algravois@mobiletel.com (Albert Gravois)
Reply-to: algravois@mobiletel.com
To: Lumoto@aol.com

Sherry,
New information on the Ascension Parish Comstocks. They definitely were related to a William V. Comstock, as he appears several times in documents associated with them. I was contacted by someone who is researching confederate naval officernd wanted info on William Van
Renaulme Comstock and John H. Comstock of New Orleans. The
Donaldsonville Comstocks definitely had an "in" in New Orleans because several of the children were married in New Orleans.
I think I have found out why this particular Comstock family left the area! John Louis Comstock, Jr. who married Zulmee Landry was interdicted a few years after the Civil War and spent the rest of his life in an insane asylum in New Orleans.dward Comstock (who I think
may be Philippe Edward) was also interdicted after the Civil War. In 1802 Zulmee Landry Comstock applied to the court for permission to sell land which she owned as separate property and stated that she needed a court order because her husband had been placed in an asylum for thirty
years. I also have copies of the orders placing both John and Edward into state custody. Edward went to Jackson.
It seems they were a well respected family because the people of the area took care of the children afterwards. Joseph St. Martin became their tutor under the succession proceedings of John Sr. Most of the witnesses on the documents, as I st to you, were the "in crowd" of
Ascension and Assumption Parishes, as I think I told you. There were judges, legislators, plantation owners, etc.
I'll keep you posted as I find new info. I think we have really discovered MY William. Now if I can just prove it. See ya, Patty.

___________________
Date: 9/2/98 9:22:31 PM Central Daylight Time
From: algravois@mobiletel.com (Albert Gravois)
Reply-to: algravois@mobiletel.com
To: Lumoto@aol.com (Lumoto@aol.com)

Hi Sherry,
I think the wife of the guy in our local group is descended from Hester (Ester), if I recall what he told me correctly. I'll let you know for sure when I talk back with him.
I'm lucky for all of this treasure hunting. I was born and raised in Terrebonne Parish (Houma). I live in Lafourche Parish (Thibodaux). And I work in St. James (Convent), Ascension (Donaldsonville and Gonzales),
and Assumption (Napoleonville) Parishes. As a district court reporter, I work in all of these courthouses so it's a snap to run downstairs on my lunch hour and look up stuff. That's why I was so excited when I realized my stubborn little Comstock line was linked to Ascension
Parish.
Also, I'm a member of the Terrebonne Parish Genealogical Society,which is really well promoted and helpful. The genealogy section of the Terrebonne Parish Library is quite extensive. And, they just had a new
tax passed, so they will be adding lots of new stuff to it! They're asking for people to recommend what books they would like bought for the library. That's only 15 minutes away from my house.
Also, Thibodaux, where I live, has Nicholls State University, which has a wonderful section on genealogy and local history. They have archives on most of the local people/events/history from the southern section of the state.
Also, Thibodaux is the home of the Diocesan Archives for the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux, the repository of all of these old records from Lafourche and Terrebonne Parishes.
I've only been hooked on genealogy for about three or four months, so I still don't know how to look up the really good stuff yet, but I'm learning. Sadly, I do have to work for a living, so my time is limited. I would rather do this 24 hs a day.
Oh, by the way, I would love to see some connection to Edward Douglas White in my line, even if it's not direct. The reason? My oldest son just graduated from and my middle son is a sophomore at, you guessed it,
Edward Douglas White Catholic High School here in Thibodaux. That would be a real kicker.
Okay. Catch you later. Patty.

William* married Rachel* Aldrich on 21 Feb 1765 in Smithfield, Providence Co, Rhode Island. Rachel* (daughter of Peter* Aldrich and Miriam* Ray (Rea)) was born on 10 Jan 1742 in Mendon, Worcester Co, Massachusetts; died in 1810 in Vermilion Parish, Louisiana. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

children baptized after they came to Louisiana:
1st 3 children, Samuel, Miriam, and Deborah, did not go to Louisiana
Hester/Ester b abt 1771 bt 11 Jun 1786 age abt 15
Amelia b 10 Mar 1775 bt 25 Jul 1789 age 14

1. Samuel Oliver Comstock was born about 1766 in Smithfield, Providence Co, Rhode Island; died in 1839 in Montinsville, Clark Co, Illinois.
2. Deborah Comstock was born in 1767 in Smithfield, Providence Co, Rhode Island; died in 1829 in Hardin Co, Kentucky.
3. Miriam M Comstock was born in 1769 in Smithfield, Providence Co, Rhode Island; died after 1788 in of, Opelousas Parish, Louisiana.
4. Emily Comstock was born in 1771 in Smithfield, Providence Co, Rhode Island; died in 1853 in Harris Co, Texas.
5. Esther* "Hester" Comstock was born in 1772 in Smithfield, Providence Co, Rhode Island; was christened on 11 Jun 1786 in Opelousas, St. Landry Parish, Louisiana; died in Jan 1850 in Jefferson Co, Texas.
6. Amanda (or Amelia) "Amiee" Comstock was born on 10 Mar 1775 in Smithfield, Providence Co, Rhode Island; was christened on 25 Jul 1789 in Opelousas, St. Landry Parish, Louisiana; died in 1853 in Harris Co, Texas.
7. Rachel Comstock was born in 1777 in Boston, Nelson Co, Kentucky; died after 1810.
8. Helena "Ellen" Comstock was born about 1780 in of, Kentucky; died about 1819.

Other Events and Attributes:

• Other-Begin: 1731, Smithfield, Providence Co, Rhode Island
• Property: 30 Mar 1731, Smithfield, Providence Co, Rhode Island
• Other-Begin: Between 1735 and 1754, Smithfield, Providence Co, Rhode Island
• Residence: 1747, Smithfield, Providence Co, Rhode Island
• Other-Begin: 8 Dec 1747, Providence, Providence Co, Rhode Island
• Will: 26 Jul 1771, Smithfield, Providence Co, Rhode Island

Notes:

Date of death might be 8/27/1771. He was a councilman of Smithfield, RI in 1735, 1736, and 1754. He was a deputy from Smithfield in 1743 and 1746. On 10/9/1731, a road in Smithfield was laid out, David Comstock being the constable. He performed marriages as Justice, 1738 to 1749.
David Comstock's will of July 26, 1771, probated 9/16/1771, provided that his wife and sons Samuel, Nathan & Geoge should be guardians of son Benjamin for his life. Legacies of 30 pounds each to four other children, namely: William, Farnum,borah Arnold and Ann Ballou.
William Gibbs Comstock states: It appears that David Comstock occupied his father Samuel's homestead at the northeast corner of the village. It is perhaps 60 rods easterly from the Branch bridge, southerly from David's some 60 rods is the hstead of his grandfather, Capt Samuel (1654-1727). David's son George Comstock, a Quaker, succeeded to the occupancy of David's home, and after George, it passed into the hands of Nathan C. Aldrich.
David, Jan 20, 1767, deeded to his son Nathan half his homestead, consideration, 300 pounds.
__
Resided Smithfield, RI occupying his father, Samuel's, homestead. The house passed from David to his son, George (a Quaker), then to Nathan C. Aldrich.

Land transactions:
1770, of Smithfield


1. The History and Genealogy of the Comstock Family in America, 1949, John Adams Comstock


Other-Begin:
David Comstock was chosen the first constable of the new township of Smithfield at the first town meeting in 1731; his brother (uncle?) Hazadiah was one of the first fence viewers. History of Smithfield, RI by Thomas Steere, c 1881, p.24

Property:
Smithfield RI, DB 1, p.16-17 30 Mar 1731 David Comstock to Joseph Cook. 31 acres on the NW side of the Branch River where it empties into the Pawtucket [Blackstone] River. Signed: David Comstock. William Comstock [probably his brother] was one of the witnesses. Acknowledged by David Comstock on 27 Apr 1733.
On 28 Mar 1733, Joseph Cook, sold this same 31 acres to Daniel Comstock, stating that the land was formerly laid out to Samuel Comstock on 18 May 1716 - this could be either David's father or his grandfather as they both died in 1727.

Other-Begin:
David was a Councilman of Smithfield in 1735, 1736 and 1754. He was a deputy in 1743 & 1746. He preformed marriages as Justice from 1738 to 1749.

Residence:
1747 David Comstock, Esq. was on a list of freemen in Smithfield

Other-Begin:
Grandmother Elizabeth Comstock's will

Will:
Will in Smithfield. Dated 26 Jul 1771 and proved on 16 Sep 1771. Wife Deborah. Son Benjamin to be cared for. Sons Samuel, Nathan, George & William. Daughters Sarah Farnum, Deborah Arnold, Anne Ballue. Wit: Jacob Arnold, Caleb Arnold, Enoch Sprague, Thomas Steere.

David* married Deborah* Brown on 23 Aug 1730 in Providence Co, Rhode Island. Deborah* (daughter of Joseph* Brown and Sarah* Pray) was born on 10 Feb 1706 in Westerly, Washington Co, Rhode Island; died on 2 Feb 1764 in Rhode Island. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Other Events and Attributes:

• Religion: Quaker
• Other-Begin: 14 May 1707, Providence, Providence Co, Rhode Island
• Other-Begin: 2 Oct 1708, Providence, Providence Co, Rhode Island
• Residence: 16 Jun 1713, Woonsocket, Providence Co, Rhode Island
• Other-Begin: 14 Feb 1716, Providence, Providence Co, Rhode Island
• Other-Begin: 23 Apr 1716, Providence, Providence Co, Rhode Island
• Other-Begin: 28 Jan 1717, Providence, Providence Co, Rhode Island
• Other-Begin: 27 Jan 1718, Providence, Providence Co, Rhode Island
• Other-Begin: 31 Mar 1718, Providence, Providence Co, Rhode Island
• Other-Begin: 1 Aug 1718, Providence, Providence Co, Rhode Island
• Other-Begin: 15 Sep 1718, Providence, Providence Co, Rhode Island
• Other-Begin: 2 Nov 1723, Providence, Providence Co, Rhode Island
• Other-Begin: 1 Jun 1724, Providence, Providence Co, Rhode Island
• Property: 27 Feb 1727, Woonsocket, Providence Co, Rhode Island
• Will: 1 Apr 1727, Providence, Providence Co, Rhode Island

Notes:

Samuel Comstock was a Quaker and resided in Smithfield, RI.

May 14, 1707 had 14 shillings and chattels taken from him as a fine for not training (Quaker).

Will April 1, 1727, Proved April 13, 1727, bequests to wife, Anne, to his children, Sarah Aldrich, David and Anne Comstock. Inventory 319 pounds, 19s, 3d.

Samuel Comstock mentioned in record of the Greenwich monthly meetings between 1705 and 1717. The 3rd month, 1706, Friends from Providence present their sufferings and Samuel Comstock and Edward Bass are appointed to attend to same.

February 27, 1727 Samuel Comstock deeds to Samuel Jr. Comstock 100 acres 'on both sides of a river that runs out of a cedar swamp known as Wansocutt (Woonsocket) cedar Swamp, besides that on which son Samuel now resides.

1. The History and Genealogy of the Comstock Family in America, 1949, John Adams Comstock


__________________
(Vol. 1 #3207)
The Comstock Lode and Henry Tompkins Paige Comstock--The Comstock Family

In the history of silver mining there is probably no area in the world more celebrated than the Comstock Lode.
This rich vein of combined silver and gold, located in Storey County Nevada, produced three hundred and fory million dollars in silver during the thirty year perion of 1860 to 1890. In its peak year of 1877 alone, it yielded thirty eight mn dollars.
The story of its discovery and development is a fascinating saga of the early west told again in three recently published and widely circulated books. The first, and most important, is a reprint of the classic account published by "Dan De e" in 1875 "History of the Big Bonanza." Dan De Quille was the nom de plume of William Wright, staff writer for the Birginia City "Enterprise," and the one best qualified to record the story. Unfortunately his book had very little sale, and is now a scarce item. The reprint, published by Alfred A. Knopf, and edited by Oscar Lewis and Robert Glass Cleland, is titled "The Big Bonanza," and makes this valuable source material generally available.
As a readily accessible historic account, George D. Lyman's "Saga of the Comstock Lode," issued in 1946 by Charles Scribner's Sons, is the book of next improtance.
The third work is C.B. Glasscock's book, "The Big Bonanza," published by Binfords and Mort in 1931.
All three of these works give in detail accounts of the discovery and early development of the Lode when Henry Tompkins Paige Comstock was there. They all agree concerning his eccentricities and peculiar quirks of character. He is pictus an illiterate prospector given to much boasting, with a vivid imagination that had little regard fro factis. He was said to possess streaks of kindliness and impractical generosity, but these were interspersed with volatile outbursts. An account of Comstock's activities prior to his appearance in the Washoe mining district of Nevada, and of his later experiences after leaving Virginia City is not recorded. In Chapter X of Dan De Quille's book, there is a letter written by H.T.P. Comstock in which he recounts his wanderings and various activities, It was written from Butte City, Montana, when he was nearly fifty years of age, and is so full of obvious errors and bombastic imaginings as to be utterly worthless from the standpoint of history. It does, however, give a few clues as to his earlier and later activities, some of which have been in part confirmed from authentic sources. In this letter he gives his full name as Henry Thomas Paige Comstock. Perhaps he purposely substituted Thomas for Tompkins; but it is likely that he forgot he had been given his mother's family name.
Henry Tompkins Paige Comstock was born in Trenton, Ontario, Canada, in the year 1820. His father was Noah Bird Comstock who is listed as the head of Family 723 in this genealogy. His mother was Catherine Tompkins, daughter of Stephen Tom, Jr, of Watertown, NJ.
Contrary to statements usually made, he came of good stock on both sides of the family. His father was in the lumber and hotel business, and had moved in early life to Cooperstown, NY. Later he went to Ontario, Canada, then to Cleveland,, and finally to Blissfield, Michigan.
Henry was the fifth in a family of twelve children. Apparently he had a profound distaste for learning. It was stated by his friend and partner, Emanuel Penrod, that he could not read nor write.
At a very early age he was bound out to the American Fur Company and according to his statement "trapped all over Canada, Michigan, and Indiana." It is claimed that he served in the Black Hawk War, but if so, he must have been about the yot recruit. He was only twelve years of age when Chief Black Hawk surrendered. He served in the Mexican War, and according to his statement, "... all through the Patriot War in Canada."
The drift of the American forty niners into California found him in the gold country, where he probably prospected for a time without success, as the next reference to him is as a herder, driving a large band of sheep into the Carson Valleye Piute Indians got most of his sheep and left him destitute; but the Mormon pioneers of the district took him in, and eventually he became one of the band of rough and ready prospectors who were washing gold in the stream beds of the area. Most of these men knew more about "tarantula juice" (wiskey) and faro than they did about mineralogy.
There were, however, two young easterners, Allen and Hosea Grosch, in the district who were competent mineralogists. They had come from Utica, NY, where their father, A.B. Grosch, was a Univeralist clergyman. In the fall of 1855, they discd an outcropping on the slopes of Mt. Davidson, which yielded a bluish ore testing high in silver. They kept their discovery secret from all but their father, and endeavored to raise capital for the development of their claim. Failing in this, they worked in the gold diggings in the hope of obtaining enough of the yellow metal to start their larger project.
Hosea Grosch injured his foot, and died of tetanus in 1857. In an effort to raise funds, Allen and an associate, Richard Burke, decided to take samples of their ore and maps of their claim to California. Henry T.P. Comstock was left in e of the Gorsch cabin wherein were housed their various effects, including a locked chest full of ore samples, charts, and documents.
Gorsch and Burke began their trek over the Sierran trails but were trapped by the December storms. After incredible hardships and the loss of all their equipment they were finally rescued more dead than alive by miners from Last Chance, r County. Their feet and hands were frozen, and gangrene soon set in. There was no surgeon in camp, and the miners felt that only an amputation would save their lives. The operation was performed by men who were skilled in the use of pick and shovel. Allen Grosch died on December 19, 1857. And so the two brothers who were the real discoverers of the Comstock Lode were gone. Richard Burke lived; and after his recovery returned to his native Canada.
When Henry T.P. Comstock learned of Allen Grosch's death, he decided that it was his right to examine the contents of the locked chest in their cabin. In fact, from that time on, he claimed that the cabin was his personal property. When test was opened and found to contain only samples of ores with to him unintelligible charts and documents, Comstock flew into a rage, and destroyed everything that seemed to have any bearing on the Grosch brothers.
All that he could understand was that the peculiar blue ore had been found by the brothers somewhere on Mt. Davidson, presumably not far from the cabin, and that it was rich in gold. He had no inkling that it was almost pure sulfide of s. Thereafter Comstock spent much time in visiting the various diggings of the local miners and prospectors, in search of that particular blue ore.
On January 28, 1859 four miners working on a sight at Gold Hill uncovered some bluish rock which yielded considerable gold. Comstock heard of the strike, and immediately looked them up. He was convinced that they had found the blue stuff d been seeking, and tried to talk himself into a partnership on the basis of some shady rights that he claimed to have on the area. The miners were nort convinced; but a portion of the site next to the discovery was unclaimed and Comstock filed on what remained.
The four miners who had located on the Gold Hill outcropping were James Fennimore, known as "Old Virginny"; John Bishop, known as "Big French John"; Aleck Henderson, and Jack Yount. They had actually uncovered one end of the Lode, but not ain vein which had previously been found by the Grosch brothers.
In working the Gold Hill deposits, Comstock and the other miners had great difficulty in separating the gold from the "blue stuff," and spent much energy in loudly cursing it as they discarded great quanities of silver salts worth many time value of the gold recovered.
One June evening, Comstock learned that two prospectors named Pete O'Riley and Pat McLaughlin were mining in Spanish ravine near a spring where he had previously staked off a claim for grazing purposes. Full of "sound and fury" he straightid himself over the the diggings. There were Pete and Pat, making their last cleanup for the day, with a mound of gold beside them. There was the real bluish ore.
Comstock stormed and threatened, and finally talked himself and his partner, "Manny" Penrod into an interest in the claim. He also wrangled an additional hundred feet for himself on the basis of his water rights.
The claims thus staked out developed later into the famous Ophir and Mexican Mines which yielded millions of dollars in silver. To the ignorant men who found them, men interested only in gold and cursing the "blue stuff" that clogged theirers, they brought only a pittance. Pat McLaughlin sold his interest for three thousand, five hundred dollars. Emanual Penrod let his go for eight thousand, five hundred dollars. Pete O'Riley held on longer than the others, and finally sold out for forty thousand dollars, and eventually died an insane pauper. Comstock traded an old blind horse and abottle of whiskey for a one tenth share owned by "Old Virginny," (James F. Cooper) but later sold all of his holdings to Judge James Walsh of Grass Valley for eleven thousand dollars and lost it all trying to run a store in Carson City. All of the original locators of the Lode died in poverty.
O'Riley and McLaughlin are generally credited with the discovery, on June 12, 1859, of the famous Lode. Actually theirs was a redicovery of the Grosh brothers' lost claim. "Old Virginny" and his associates would with equal right, be crediith the prior discovery on January 28, 1859, since their claims were located at one end of the vein.
Comstock's daydreaming of his wealth, and loud boasting of his exploits kept him so busy that he had no time to bake sour dough bread as did most of the miners. He therefore made pancakes, and became so adept at tossing them that he camee known in the diggings as "Old Pancake."
He talked so loud and long of "his mine" that the people of the district began calling it the Comstock Lode.
In 1862, after his failure as a merchant, Comstock left Nevada and followed the life of a prospector and road builder in eastern Oregon, Idaho, and Montana. His hope was always for the discovery of another Big Bonanza. He did make severalkes of minor importance. Bancroft states that he and Lytle opened the first quartz vein in which free gold was visible on the Powder River; and that he surveyed a road from there which was shorter and better than the old one. On August 11,1862, he discovered a vein from which he took four hundred and fifty dollars in gold, according to the San Francisco Bulletin of Augst 27, 1862. He was apparently active as a miner in various sections of Idaho and Montana. He accompanied the Big Horn Expedition which planned to explore and prospect the Yellowstone Country.
In 1870 he was called to Nevada as a witness for the Ophir Company, and was well paid for his testimony. He was said to have had considerable money on his person when he returned to Bozeman, Montana. Accounts differ as to the cause of hish there on September 29, 1870. On his grave marker in Bozeman Cemetery it is recorded that he "committed suicide by shooting himself through the head."
Many who knew him believe that he was murdered for the money he carried. Such an opinion is expressed in a letter written by his old friend and partner, Emanuel Penrod, to Samuel Willett Comstock. The original of this letter is here repro. It gives an interesting, though-biased appraisal of the character of H.T.P. Comstock by one of the original owners of the "Comstock Mine." Penrod's reference to Comstock's "wife living in style in Cal." is pure fiction. The true story of Comstock's purchase of a wife from a Mormon immigrant, and of her running away twice with other men, is told in Chapter IX of dan De Quille's "Big Bonanza."
In the Bozeman, Montana, Cemetery "Old Pancake" rests in peace, while the silver tinkle of his name is heard around the world wherever the Comstock Lode is metioned. Generous, boastful, kindly, illiterate, the restless spirit of the "Magnit Liar of Washoe" lives on in the ghost town and crumblin mine shafts of the old west. Gone is the man who gave away more gold than most people have ever seen - through whose fingers slipped a veritable flood of silver. But his record will carry down the years as one of the most colorful chapters in the story of the Big Bonanza.

A reproduction of the letter written to Samuel Willett Comstock by Emanuel Penrod on July 25, 1909, appears in The Comstock family on p. 509.
It tells of the mine discovery, Comstock's honesty, his wife and the money he spent on her jewelry, her leaving him and living in Calif., how he took care of the poor people, took up with strangers, how he was swindled at every turn, his failure as a merchant, and his murder for the money he carried.

Henry Tompkins Paige Comstock's picture appears on p. 180 of The Comstock Family

There is reference to H.T.P. Comstock on p. 530 etc. in "The West in American History" by Ban Elbert Clark

The Comstock family book is in the possession of either:
Bruce Pester
30172 Via Rivera
Palas Verdes Peninsula
California 90274

Clark Pester
7533 Juler Ave
Mederia, Ohio 45243

Other-Begin:
14 May 1707 - Fined for not training, he being a Quaker

Other-Begin:
The Early Records of the Town of Providence
Vol XX Deed Book 2, p.284-287 2 Oct 1708, Reign of Queen Anne. Indenture between Eliezer Arnold of one part and Thomas Smith, Joseph Smith Junr, Samuell Wilkinson junr, Samuell Comstock junr, Thomas Arnold, junr, Eliezer Arnold junr, and Joseph Arnold all of Providence in the collony of Rhode Island, Husbandmen, of the other part. Sold all that tract of land near his now dwellinghouse on the West side of the highway from Mendon to Providence, containing halfe an acre on which stands a Certaine Meatinghouse of the People called Quakers. There shall be No devision or Partition made of ye granted primises, or any part thereof, but that ye Same Shall be held & Used in common. Signed by all 8 gentlement in the presence of Walter Phettiplace and Benjamin Smith. Aknowledge before Joseph Jenckes, Assistant on 7 Mar 1709. Recorded 17 Mar 1709, Thos. Olney, Clerk.

Residence:
History of Woonsocket
p.52 Tax Payers, June 16, 1713, include: Daniel Comstock, Hazadiah Comstock, Sam. Comstock, Capt., Samuel Comstock, Jr., Thomas Comstock (Samuel and his 4 oldest sons)

Other-Begin:
Vol XIII, Town Meeting No. 2, p.2-3 14 Feb 1716 Samuel Comstock Junr John Arnold Junr & Henry Mawry Chosen to Lay out a highway from the highway formerly Layed out by the Town to Westquotomset: to Wansocut so far as they shall think meete: and make Returne of there proceedings to the towne for the Towns allowance and Confirmation of sd work

Other-Begin:
Vol. IX, p.29-30 23rd of Aprill 1716. Laying out of a highway through Wesquetomscutt and Wansocott [Woonsocket] Lands and so over the River Called the branch ...."Crassing the said path sevorall times with bounds plainely marked by Hazadiah Comestockes and a Long by Samuell Comestockes and Richard Spreagues to the Branch of the River" Signed by John Arnold, Henry Mawrey, Samuell Comestock Junr.

Other-Begin:
Vol XIII, Town Meeting No. 2, p.11. 28 Jan 1717. Capt Richard Waterman Chosen Moderator. Mr Jonathan Spreague Chosen Grand juriman to serve att the next Genrl Court of Tryals to be holden att Newport the Last tusday in March Next. And Samuel Comestock Junr, Leiut Roger Burlinggame, Leiut William Harris, Ebenezer Spreague to serve pette Jurimen att sd Court

Other-Begin:
Vol XIII, Town Meeting No. 2, p.6-7 27 Jan 1718. Upon a bill presented by severall persons Liveing in the northern part of the Towne ship: that they may have a pound build in that parte of the Towne: the which by voate is Granted: and also a Comittee of three men Chosen to appoynt where sd Pound shall be sett.
Ensigne James Whipple, John Arnold Junr and Saml Comstock Junr are the three men Chosen

Other-Begin:
Vol.XVI, p.50-52. Samuel Comstock, Jr. and John Mowre appraised the estate of Jathaniel Mawrey who died 24 Mar 1718. Date of appraisal was 31 Mar 1718. Nathaniel's son Joseph was Executor.

Other-Begin:
p.85-88 Accounts of the estate of Nathaniel Mowrey reveals a payment of 6 shillings to Samuell Comestock on 1 Aug 1718.

Other-Begin:
p.83-85. Samuel Comstock, Junr, Joseph Smith and Daniell Mathewson witnessed the Last Will and Testament of John Malavery dated 15 Sep 1718.

Other-Begin:
p.274-275. Agreement among heirs of Anne (Inman) Comstocks two deceased sisters, Tabitha and Joannah, signed by Samuel Barlet, John Inman, Valentine Inman, Deborah Inman, Daniel Mathewson, John Belaue, Samuel Comstock, Junr. 2 Nov 1723.

Other-Begin:
Vol XIII, Town Meeting No. 2, p.30. 1 Jun 1724 Samuel Comestock Junr Chosen seacond Constable. Marked with an X to indicate he was Engaged.

Property:
27 Feb 1727, his father Samuel Comstock deeded to Samuel, Jr. 100 acres "on both sides of a river that runs out of a cedar swamp known as Wansocut (Woonsocket) cedar swamp, being that on which son Samuel now resides"

Will:
Will dated 1 Apr 1727, proved 13 Apr 1727. Bequests to wife Anne and children Sarah Aldrich, David, and Anne, who is under 18. Wit: Richard Sprague, Hazadiah Comstock, Joseph Arnold.

Samuel* married Anne* Inman about 1704 in Rhode Island. Anne* (daughter of John* Inman and Mary* Wightman) was born about 1679 in Providence Co, Rhode Island; died in 1727 in Smithfield, Providence Co, Rhode Island. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Other Events and Attributes:

• Other-Begin: 2 Nov 1723, Providence, Providence Co, Rhode Island

Notes:

She signed a will on 13 April 1727 in Smithfield, MA, along with her husband.

Other-Begin:
p.274-275. Agreement among heirs of Anne (Inman) Comstocks two deceased sisters, Tabitha and Joannah, signed by Samuel Barlet, John Inman, Valentine Inman, Deborah Inman, Daniel Mathewson, John Belaue, Samuel Comstock, Junr. 2 Nov 1723.

Joseph* married Sarah* Pray about 1703 in Rhode Island. Sarah* (daughter of John* Pray and Sarah* Brown) was born about 1681 in Providence Co, Rhode Island; died after 1733 in Providence Co, Rhode Island. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Other Events and Attributes:

• Other-Begin: 29 Apr 1733, Smithfield, Providence Co, Rhode Island

Notes:

Other-Begin:
Mentioned in her father's will dated 29 Apr 1733 as Sarah Brown. Will also mentions separately daughter Mary Brown. Some researchers are showing Sarah and Mary as same person.


Died:
have seen death date given as 4 Jan 1728; but she is mentioned in her father's will dated 9 Oct 1733 as daughter Sarah Brown.

Notes:

1st cousins 1 removed.

Other Events and Attributes:

• Property: 28 Sep 1663, Providence, Providence Co, Rhode Island
• Residence: 1666, Woonsocket, Providence Co, Rhode Island
• Property: 27 Jul 1677, Providence, Providence Co, Rhode Island
• Property: 27 Jan 1678, Providence, Providence Co, Rhode Island
• Property: 12 Aug 1678, Providence, Providence Co, Rhode Island
• Property: 27 Jan 1679, Providence, Providence Co, Rhode Island
• Property: 24 Feb 1679, Providence, Providence Co, Rhode Island
• Other-Begin: 1 Jul 1679, Providence, Providence Co, Rhode Island
• Other-Begin: 1 Jul 1679, Providence, Providence Co, Rhode Island
• Other-Begin: 15 Aug 1679, Providence, Providence Co, Rhode Island
• Property: 27 Jan 1680, Providence, Providence Co, Rhode Island
• Other-Begin: 29 Jan 1680, Providence, Providence Co, Rhode Island
• Other-Begin: 29 Jan 1680, Providence, Providence Co, Rhode Island
• Property: 28 Jan 1681, Providence, Providence Co, Rhode Island
• Other-Begin: 10 Feb 1681, Providence, Providence Co, Rhode Island
• Other-Begin: 20 Feb 1681, Providence, Providence Co, Rhode Island
• Other-Begin: 11 Mar 1681, Providence, Providence Co, Rhode Island
• Other-Begin: 27 Apr 1681, Providence, Providence Co, Rhode Island
• Other-Begin: 15 Nov 1682, Providence, Providence Co, Rhode Island
• Other-Begin: 28 Jan 1683, Providence, Providence Co, Rhode Island; or 1684
• Other-Begin: 2 Jun 1684, Providence, Providence Co, Rhode Island
• Other-Begin: 29 Oct 1684, Providence, Providence Co, Rhode Island
• Property: 21 May 1685, Providence, Providence Co, Rhode Island
• Property: 21 May 1685, Providence, Providence Co, Rhode Island; from half-bro John III
• Other-Begin: 29 Jun 1685, Providence, Providence Co, Rhode Island
• Property: 29 Jun 1685, Providence, Providence Co, Rhode Island
• Other-Begin: 4 Nov 1685, Providence, Providence Co, Rhode Island
• Other-Begin: 9 Nov 1685, Providence, Providence Co, Rhode Island
• Other-Begin: 19 Nov 1685, Providence, Providence Co, Rhode Island
• Other-Begin: 2 Dec 1685, Providence, Providence Co, Rhode Island
• Other-Begin: 27 Jul 1686, Providence, Providence Co, Rhode Island
• Other-Begin: 25 Mar 1687, Providence, Providence Co, Rhode Island
• Property: 5 Jul 1687, Providence, Providence Co, Rhode Island
• Other-Begin: 20 Jul 1687, Providence, Providence Co, Rhode Island
• Other-Begin: 26 Sep 1687, Providence, Providence Co, Rhode Island
• Other-Begin: 31 Oct 1687, Providence, Providence Co, Rhode Island
• Other-Begin: Aug 1688, Providence, Providence Co, Rhode Island
• Other-Begin: Aug 1688, Providence, Providence Co, Rhode Island
• Other-Begin: 27 Mar 1691, Providence, Providence Co, Rhode Island
• Property: 10 Jun 1695, Providence, Providence Co, Rhode Island
• Other-Begin: 8 Apr 1697, Providence, Providence Co, Rhode Island
• Other-Begin: 8 Apr 1697, Providence, Providence Co, Rhode Island; sent to fight Indians
• Other-Begin: 1 Mar 1699, Providence, Providence Co, Rhode Island
• Other-Begin: Abt 1701, Providence, Providence Co, Rhode Island
• Other-Begin: 6 Mar 1702, Providence, Providence Co, Rhode Island
• Other-Begin: 20 Apr 1702, Providence, Providence Co, Rhode Island
• Other-Begin: 14 Jul 1703, Providence, Providence Co, Rhode Island
• Other-Begin: 16 Nov 1706, Providence, Providence Co, Rhode Island
• Property: 14 Apr 1707, Woonsocket, Providence Co, Rhode Island
• Property: 14 Apr 1707, Providence, Providence Co, Rhode Island
• Other-Begin: 28 Apr 1707, Providence, Providence Co, Rhode Island
• Other-Begin: 19 May 1707, Providence, Providence Co, Rhode Island
• Other-Begin: 23 Apr 1708, Providence, Providence Co, Rhode Island
• Other-Begin: 4 Feb 1710, Providence, Providence Co, Rhode Island
• Other-Begin: 12 May 1710, Providence, Providence Co, Rhode Island
• Other-Begin: 21 Jul 1710, Providence, Providence Co, Rhode Island
• Military: 9 Aug 1710, Port Royal (Queen Anne's War)
• Other-Begin: 27 Jan 1711, Providence, Providence Co, Rhode Island
• Other-Begin: 16 Mar 1711, Providence, Providence Co, Rhode Island
• Other-Begin: 26 Apr 1711, Providence, Providence Co, Rhode Island
• Other-Begin: 8 Nov 1711, Providence, Providence Co, Rhode Island
• Residence: 16 Jun 1713, Woonsocket, Providence Co, Rhode Island
• Other-Begin: 23 Apr 1716, Providence, Providence Co, Rhode Island
• Other-Begin: 21 Aug 1719, Providence, Providence Co, Rhode Island
• Other-Begin: 26 Feb 1722, Providence, Providence Co, Rhode Island
• Other-Begin: 9 Nov 1724, Providence, Providence Co, Rhode Island
• Will: 21 Dec 1726, Providence, Providence Co, Rhode Island
• Property: 27 Feb 1727, Woonsocket, Providence Co, Rhode Island

Notes:

Samuel was the first settler of Woonsocket, RI with his brother-in-law Richard Arnold.
Samuel Comstock, July 1, 1679, taxed 8d. In 1699, 1702, 07, 08, and 1711, he was appointed on a committee by Assembly to audit the General Treasurer's Account and Colony debts. April 1708, appointed on a committee to fix the rates of grain d other spices brought to the treasury. On May 6, 1707, Ensign Comstock was a Deputy from Providence. He was called Captain at the time of his death. (From Haggard and Comstock)

August 1710, Capt. Samuel Comstock and others obtained, April 14, 1707, a grant of land at Woonsocket Hill, RI. Samuel Comstock and Richard Arnold (whose sister Elizabeth, Samuel married) were the first settlers at Woonsocket. Samuel k had a long controversy with the town on Mendon over ownership of 900 acres of land on present state line between Mass, and RI. On Nov. 21, 1698, the selectman of Mendon gave Samuel Comstock "free liberty to cut so much timber as will be necessary for their use, viz.: to build the Saw mill and Dam at the Great River."
Samuel resided at Providence, but in 1731 a part was set off as Smithfield. Samuel Comstock's will of Dec. 21, 1726 was proved Sept. 18, 1727, executrix, wife Elizabeth. Inventory L296 6s ld. Will of widow Elizabeth Comstock of Smithfiell 10, 1745, proved Dec. 8, 1747, gives to sons Thomas, Daniel, Ichabod, John, Job, and Hazadiah; to daughter Elizabeth Sayles; to grandson David Comstock; to granddaughter Sarah Aldrich; to Great granddaughter Anne Steer, Inventory, L415 13s 8d. Children born in Providence.
--------
A daughter of another of Samuel's sons, Thomas, traces her ancestery back to William the Conquerer. See Arnold Family, New England Historical and Geneological Register, Vol 33, 1879.

August, 1710, Capt. Samuel Comstock ordered Henry Nowry of 2nd Company to impress men to go to Port Royal.

Burial: Quaker Ancient Cemetery, on edge of Woonsocket, RI; another record has 'north burial ground, Providence, RI'


The History and Genealogy of the Comstock Family in America, 1949, John Adams Comstock.




Property:
The Early Records of the Town of Providence
Vol. III, p.40-41 28 Sep 1663 John Smith (Mason) hath desired of this Towne to change 6 1/2 acres of Land lieing in the neck, over against the East End of the house lott which formerly belonged unto John Clawson it lieing betweene the said howse lott formerly belonging to Clawson & the great Swamp; to change for a five aker lott which was by will of the Towne Coucell given unto the Two sones of Samuell Comstock (deceased) formerly inhabetant of this Towne; The said John Smith desiring the Exchange with this proviso: that in Case the aforsaid two sons of Samuell Comstock when they Com to age doe asent unto the said Exchange; then for the said John Smith to injoy the aforsaid five akers, and the two youthes the said six 1/2 akers aforspecified. But in Case the said youthes when they Come to age doe aprehend they are damniffied by said Exchange: Then for the said John Smith to Resine up the said five akers of Land unto the said youths; And the said John Smith to receive the aforsaid 6 1/2 of Land again with this provizo: the said Exchange is granted by the Towne.

Residence:
History of Woonsocket
p.32,33 "In 1731, the town of Smithfield was set off from Providence...... Citizens of Western Woonsocket participated in the annual elections of Smithfield....March 8, 1871, a portion of its territory was annexed to the new town of Woonsocket."
p.39 "....a saw-mill ...existed in these parts in 1666. As its builder, Richard Arnold, was at that time but 24 years of age, it is fair to infer that it was erected about that time, and that then was 'the beginning.' The first settlers, as I have said before, were Richard Arnold and Samuel Comstock -- the latter 'pitching his tent' a little west of the Union Village, and the former locating himself at the river. During their lives they held the lands in common, and no lines were drawn between their estates until many years after their death. this was done by the heirs, March 26, 1731."
http://freepages.genealogy.rootsweb.ancestry.com/~katy/comstk/b279.html#P279

Property:
Early Records of the Town of Providence
Vol.VIII Town Meetings #3, p.20. Towne Meeting 27 Jul 1677 "Voated by the Towne that Samuell Comstocks Bill be refered to the next meeting and then to receive a full Answer to the sayd Bill"

Property:
Early Records of the town of Providence
Vol VIII, p. 36 27 Jan 1678 Samuel Comstock requested that the towne grant the laying out of land which remains due to him of his father's right, which he bought from John Smith, Samuel Whipple objecting to the request. The council suspended an answer until 10 Feb. The council on that date decided against Samuel Comstock.

Property:
Vol.VIII,p.21-22 "Whereas Samuell Cumstock did prsent a bill to this Towne, this 12th day of Aug 1678: desireing yt they would sell a samll peice of Land to ye quantity of three Quarters of an Acar ...ye westerne End of ye sd Samll his Lott ....The towne doe by a free & full Voate Sell unto ye sd Samuel Comstock ...the sd peice of Land ...theire order six shillings."

Vol XIV Deed Book 1, p.102 Laid out unto Samuell Comstock in ye yeare 1678 three quarters of a acre of land, or theire abouts adjoyneing to ye west End of ye lott hee now dwelleth on, Wee say laid out by us, Arthur ffenner, Sirveior, William Hopkins, Sirveior

Property:
Vol.VIII, Town Meetings #3, p.36 Dated Jan 27 1679 "...Samuell Comstock prefered a bill ...desireing ye towne to grant ye Laying out of ye Land wch (he saith) is yet remaineing due unto him of his fathers Right wch he bought of John Smith (mason) ...Samuell Whipple had to Object ...Suspend an Answer thereto untill this day come fortnight wch will be upon ye 10th of Feb. next.
Vol.VIII, p.36-37 note in margin "his bill yet suspended" "because some are not sattisfied ..Adjurned until this day comes fortnight wch will be upon ye 24th of Feb.

Property:
Vol. VIII, p.37-38. Town met again on Feb 24, 1679. The best of my understanding is that Samuel Comstock believed John Smith (mason)'s Right was purchased by his deceased father Samuel but no one appeared for the drawing of the papers so Smith has continued to pay all dues and take possession of the Right. I'm not sure what the Town decided but it seems John Smith retained his Right!

Other-Begin:
The Early History of the town of Providence
Vol XV, p.185-191 Tax Levy 1 Jul 1679. Samawell Comstocke was one of the collectors. He was listed as paying 8p.

Other-Begin:
Vol VIII, p.156 9 Nov 1685. "Whereas there is a debt due from ye towne to Mr. John Sanford Recorder & ye towne being willing to discharge ye same, the sayd Mr. Sanford having this day demanded ye sayd debt. And whereas there is a part of a rate of 27 lb gathered & in ye hands of Samuell Comstock the which was made ye ye 1st of July 1679. It is ordred that ye sayd Samuell Comstock shall deliver up to ye towne this day 10 shillings of ye sayd Rate the which sayd 10 shillings shall be to defray he said debt to Mr. Sanford. The towne hath Received ye sayd 10 shillings of ye sd Samuell Comstock, the which is delivered to ye sayd towne in money."

Other-Begin:
Vol XV, p.196 15 Aug 1679. Samuell Comstock was a member of a Coroners Inquest into the untimely Death of Elizabeth pearce, Daughter of Ephraim pearce and Hannah his wife, aged about one yeare and halfe. The child had slipped out the door with an older sister and drowned in the well. The jury found she "exadentally fell into the well and was overwhelmed in water, and by the providence of God Drownded." [This account also in Vol VIII, p.57-58)

Property:
Vol XV, p.200 27 Jan 1680. John Dexter petitions for a smal pecce of land betwen Samuel Comstocks and our hous and would have it as low as Samuel Comstockes Corner. Bill was granted at the same rate as Sam. Comstock paid. [Also noted in Vol.VIII, p.90.]


Other-Begin:
Vol.XV, p.206-214 Two Tax levys 16 Jul 1680. Sam: Comstock paid a total of 4p in one levy and 7p in the other.

Other-Begin:
Vol XV, p.223-225. Another tax levy dated 29 Jan 1680. Sam: Comstock paid 9p.

Property:
Vol XIV Deed Book 1, p.101-102 Upon ye 28th day of January in ye yeare 1681. Laid out unto Samuell Comstock in ye Right of Thomas Arnold 30 acrs of land, the which belonged unto ye said Thomas Arnold in a second Grant for devision betweene ye 7 mile line & ye 4 mile line & was by Towne order upon ye 27th of Januarey 1681 granted unto ye said Samuell Comstock to be layd out elsewhere upon ye Towns Comon. [proceeded to lay out part of farm formerly belonging to Thomas Wallin Senr, bounded by John Brownes land, to a piece of meadow formerly belonging to Stephen Northrup: Bound on North by Comon, East by Thomas Walling, North by Wallings farm, South by Meadow of Stephen Northup or brook. There is a surveryor's diagram of this piece of property.] Thomas Olney, Sirveior.


Other-Begin:
Vol VIII, p.109 10 Feb 1681 "Voated that there shall be sufficient highway Continnually in being, on the west side of Thomas Wallings farme beginning at North End of ye land taken up allready by Samuell Comstock in the Right of Thomas Arnold." [See Vol.XIV, p.101-102]

Other-Begin:
Vol XV, p.226 20 Feb 1681. Towne voted on a sufficient highway begining at ye North End of ye land taken up already by Samuell Comstock in ye Right of Thomas Arnold, and so to run Northward.

Other-Begin:
Vol.VIII, p.93 11 Mar 1681 Samuell Comstock & Benjamin Hernden witnessed for Jonathan Morey that he is heir to father Roger Morey and claims his 12 acres of upland and new fields and desires his claim to be placed in the record.

Other-Begin:
Vol VIII, p.109 10 Feb 1681 "Voated that there shall be sufficient highway Continnually in being, on the west side of Thomas Wallings farme beginning at North End of ye land taken up allready by Samuell Comstock in the Right of Thomas Arnold." [See Vol.XIV, p.101-102]

Other-Begin:
Vol.VIII, p.120 15 Nov 1682 "Ordred that Samuell Comstocks Bill for forty foote square of land on ye norwesterne part of Thomas Olney his foure staked meadow, for severall reasons is not, nor shall not be granted."

Other-Begin:
Vol XVII p.28 to the town of Providance met this 28th of January 1683 or 84 naibours and freinds I pray let me have the quontati of 40 foot square of land or theabout agineing to the west end of my lot I now dwel one and I shall bee willing soe to alow as others deid that had lots 40 foot square by the water side your to Command Samuell Comstock

Other-Begin:
Vol.VIII, p.140 2 Jun 1684 "It being the day of Election of Towne officers ....Samuel Cumstock chosen serjant & engaged."

Other-Begin:
Vol XVII p.44 Tax levied Oct 29 1684: Samuell Comstock 1 shilling

Property:
Vol XVII p.34 To the town of providance met this 17th of march: 1683: or: 84 loving freinds; whereas it apeares that my deseased father John Smith In his Life time: was intruested with a Right of land or lands in this town of providance and towneshipps: and hee dieing Intested the said right of lands by Right of inhiartence belongeth unto me his heire and whereas the greatest part of my lands lyeth undievied from the townes Commons my request therefore is that the towne would be pleased to ordar maters so that my lands may be layed out and in so doing you will OBliage him who is yours to Command. John Smith
John Smiths Bill [petition] Jamecos Son.
Vol XIV Deed Book 1 p.122-123 John Smith sometime knowne by the name of Jameco John formerly inhabetant of ye Towne of Providence ...but now deceased was by ye said towne ...accomedated with a five & twenty acre Right of landes & Comoning ....I John Smith of ye towne of Meadfield in the Colloney of Massachussetts ...son & Heire unto ye aforenamed deceased John Smith for a valuable sume of money in hand ...payd unto me by Samuell Comstock ...make over ...unto ye said Samuel Comstock ..for Ever all the Right Intrest Clayme & Title that I have. 21 May 1685. Signed by the mark of John Smith.
http://moreleaves.blogspot.com/2009/08/comstock-family-oops-part-2-anne.html

Property:
Vol XIV Deed Book 1, p.122-123 John Smith, son of John Smith (Jameco John) now deceased, deeds to Samuel Comstock 25 acres in Providence. John now lives in Meadfield, MA, and is likely the half brother of Samuel. [See Anne (Tucker) Comstock Smith] 21 May 1685. Witnessed by Thomas Olney, Thomas Olney Junr, Abraham Harding.

Property:
Vol XIV, p.126-127 Thomas Arnold deeds to Samuel Comstock the 30 acres laid out in 1681 "for and in Consideration of a valuable sum of money" 29 June 1685. Witnessed by Thomas Olney and John Browne. Acknowledged by Richard Arnold, Assistant.

Other-Begin:
Vol IV, pp.115-121 29 Jun 1685. Settlement of estate of Thomas Arnold who died in Sep 1674. Thomas died intestate; this is an agreement among remaining heirs. Samuel & Elizabeth received 20 pounds. The sons of Thomas received land; Elizabeth through Samuel appears to have already received most of her inheritance.

Other-Begin:
Vol XIV, p.164 Nov 4, 1685. Land laid out to Thomas Estance in the Right of John Warner borders on the East, land laid out to Samuel Comstock. Thomas Olney, Surveior.

Other-Begin:
Vol VIII, p.156 9 Nov 1685. "Whereas there is a debt due from ye towne to Mr. John Sanford Recorder & ye towne being willing to discharge ye same, the sayd Mr. Sanford having this day demanded ye sayd debt. And whereas there is a part of a rate of 27 lb gathered & in ye hands of Samuell Comstock the which was made ye ye 1st of July 1679. It is ordred that ye sayd Samuell Comstock shall deliver up to ye towne this day 10 shillings of ye sayd Rate the which sayd 10 shillings shall be to defray he said debt to Mr. Sanford. The towne hath Received ye sayd 10 shillings of ye sd Samuell Comstock, the which is delivered to ye sayd towne in money."

Other-Begin:
Vol XIV, p.184-185 Nov 19, 1685. Land laid out to Joseph Smith bounds Samuel Comstock. (which Joseph Smith? Likely son of John (the Mason) Smith.

Other-Begin:
Vol VIII, p.159-160 2 Dec 1685. Thomas Olney to lay out highway through the land of Samuell Comstock & John Browne and lay them out other land at the town's charge. In the same session: "Granted unto Samuell Comstock that he may Exchange five acres of land which was layd out unto him in the neck betweene ye great swampe & ye land which formerly belonged to Phillipp Taber..."

Other-Begin:
Vol XVII p.76-77 Where as thair is a paper presented to the towne of providence this 27: of July 1686 wher in thair is a Requeste of the honered governer and others of the Comittie Judging it very Convenient for the satisfing of som dissatisfied persons as if the Court and Comitty war about to surender of the goverment of this Colony under the govermente of Yorke we the subscribers do her by deClare that our minds ar that ther be a surender or prosterating our Charter and the priviledge there in Contained unto our gratious sovrin lord King Jeames the second and to us other person or goverment. the subscridberes ar: Joseph Jenckes, Daniell Abbott, Thomas Arnold, Thomas Harris, Eliezar Arnold, Samuell Comestock.

Other-Begin:
Vol VIII, p.170 25 Mar 1687 "Voated, Sam: Comstocks Bill is refered to ye next meeteing. The meeting is desolved"

Property:
Vol XIV Deed Book 1 p.170-171 John Field deeds to Samuel Comstock for 4 pounds, 10 shillings silver money, two pieces of Meadow, each containing about 1 acre. Bounded on each side by stream or brook, near Wallings farm and bounds Wallings or land belonging to said Samuel Comstock. 5 July 1687, third year of the Reign of King James II. Signed John ffield. Witnessed by John Whipple and Epenetus Olney.

Other-Begin:
Vol XVII p.98-103 Tax levy of Jul 20 1687. Samuel Comstock 3 shillings.

Other-Begin:
Vol XIV Deed Book 1 p.185 26 Sep 1687. Samuell Comstock & Samuell Winsor witnessed deed of Thomas Clemenc [Clements] to George Keetch, 7 pounds for 30 acres.

Other-Begin:
p.108-112 Tax levy for upkeep of the Tinkers child, the Pound, etc. Sam: Comstock 1 shilling, 6 pence. Oct 31, 1687.

Other-Begin:
Vol XVII p. 122-127 Levy of August 1688. Samuell Comestoke 2 shillings 10 pence.

Other-Begin:
p.117-188 and 127-130 List of all Male Persons 16 years and upwards ordered by John Usher, Receiver General of His Majesty's Revenues within His Territory and Dominion in New England includes Samuell Comestock. August 1688.

Other-Begin:
Vol XIV Deed Book 1 p.233-234 Thomas Arnold sells to Joseph Whipple 7 1/2 acres, 7 of which he had formerly purchased of Samuell Comstock of Providence. 27 Mar 1691. Witnessed by Thomas Olney and Samuell Comstock.

Property:
p.240-242 Samuell Comestock sells to Jonathan Whipple for 25 pounds, 60 acres with all Meadow grounds, through which tract there is a common highway marked out by the surveyor of the Town of Providence. Near Wallings farm, bounded by John Browns land, corner of John Smiths land (deceased). "Sufficiently Saved & Kept harmeless .... Dowryes, Power & Thirds of Elizabeth his now wife" 10 Jun 1695. Witnessed by Thomas Olney, William Olney.

Other-Begin:
Vol. XI, Town Meeting 1 p.32 8 Apr 1697 Jonathan Whipple wants the highway laid through his land bought of Samuel Comstock, "have ye Way Turned". Matter left with Surveyor. p.33 John Smith refuses to serve in proportioning tax levies: Samuel Comstock is chosen by the Magistrates in his place.

Other-Begin:
Vol XVII p.163-165 Whereas there hath Bin a late inCurtion & invation made upon some of Our English plantations: by the Cruel and Barborous Indian Enemies ...Wee the Councel of war for the Town of providence Have thought fitt: in his Majesties: Name to Nominate and Appoynt you ...17: Samuel Comstocke ...Every of you to take the Comand and Conduct of Ten men ...Rainge beyound the outmost of our plantations Each of you two Daies at a time or more as Need shall Require ....indevour to Resest Expulse Kill and Distroy them according to the best of your Indevour ... 24 Apr 1697

Other-Begin:
Vol XI, Town Meeting 1, p.47-48 1 Mar 1699 Chosen for Deputies to serve at the General Assembly in Newport the day before the Election & at the Election include Saml. Comstock. Saml. Comstock had to bill to stop those who have no Right in Common from getting timber; voted to refer decision to the next quarter day.


Other-Begin:
Vol V, p.267-268. Register of marriage of Samuel Comstock & Elizabeth Arnold and the births of all the children. Marriages and births of many of the townspeople were recorded in the record book about the the same time as the town records of the early 1700's.

Other-Begin:
Vol XI, Town Meeting 1, p.67 6 Mar 1702 Deputies to serve in General Assembly, the last Tuesday are Maj. John Dexter, Mr. Gideon Crawford, Joseph Whipple & Samuel Comstock.

Other-Begin:
20 Apr 1702 Nathaniel Waterman, Gideon Crawford, Joseph Whipple & Samuel Comstock are chosen deputies to serve in the General Assembly at Newport on the 1st Wednesday in May next, the day before the Election.

Other-Begin:
Vol IX, p.186: July 14, 1703. Samuell Comestock, Senr.....had taken up two stray Maares

Other-Begin:
Vol XX Deed Book 2, p.139-141 Samuell ComeStock for 62 pounds, 10 shillings sells to Benjamin Smith one Whole Right of lands & Comons being on the West side of the 7 mile line, said Right is in the Right of One John Smith (John Jameco) formerly of Said Providence but now deceased. 150 acres being already laid out & bounded from the Common. Gives up dower rights of Elizabeth his now wife.

Property:
History of Woonsocket
p.17 "Richard Arnold and Samuel Comstock were the first settlers of Woonsocket (R.I.)."
p.32 "But, April 14, 1707, the town granted to Capt. Richard Arnold and Ensign Samuel Comstock the lands which they had already occupied for so long a time."

Property:
p.189-190 Petition of Richard Arnold & Ensign Samuel Comestock for grant of land "haveing Some yeares Made Some improvement of Said land by building & Settling thereon, with Other Manufactions on Said land". Mentions several families placed on said land, Saw Mill and other improvements for benefit of said Towne. "Whereupon the Purchasers & Proprietors of Said Providence Doe Now Grant unto the Said Richard Arnold & Samuell ComeStock that Said Percell of land So lieing as aforeSaid betweene Said Pautuckett River & Said land of Edward Inman & Associates". Aprill the 14th, 1707. Recorded April 25, 1707, Tho. Olney, Clerk. Also recorded in Vol. XVII p.224-225.

Other-Begin:
Vol XI, Town Meeting 1, p.115 28 Apr 1707 Chosen for deputies in serve in General Assembly in May next at the Election & the day before are Capt. Jenckes, Mr. Jonathan Sprague, Ensigne Saml Comstock, Lt. Tho. Olney.

Other-Begin:
Vol.XVII p.228-229 The Proprietors of Providence grant the Northern Grant (1000 acres) to 5 persons: Maj. William Hopkins, Capt. Richard Arnold, Mr. Jonathan Sprague, Mr. Joseph Whipple & Ensigne Samuell Comestock to share equally and prevent any intrechment or inroads into the Northern part of Providence Plantation. May 19, 1707.

Other-Begin:
Vol XI, Town Metting 1, p.129 23 Apr 1708 Chosen for deputies to serve in General Assembly at the election the 1st Wed. May next at Newport & day before: Major Jecnckes, Mr. Jonathan Sprague, Saml. Comatock, Mr. Phillip Tillinghast.

Other-Begin:
Vol.XVII p.357-258 Peleg Roades for Privilege that Nehemiah Sheldon has for cutting of timber in virture of a deed from my father Zachary Roades to his father John Sheldon Deceased bearing date 12 Feb 1660 have deeded two small tracts of land in Pautuxet containing 15 acres. 4 Feb 1710. Witnessed by Samuell ComeStock, Malachy Roades, Richard Philipps.

Other-Begin:
p.380-381 Sarah Arnold, Widdow & Relict of the late deceased Richard Arnold on the one Party & Richard Arnold, John Arnold, & Thomas Arnold Sones of the aforesd Richard Arnold.
Whereas she received by last will & Testament of Richard Arnold two lotts in Providence with Orchard & dwellinghouse, but she cannot because of age improve said to any advantage, relinquishes to Richard, John, and Thomas, Executors, provided they pay her 8 Pounds on or before the 29th of May in every year during her natural life, or the lotts revert back to her. 12 May 1710. Signed Sarah (her X mark) Arnold, Richard Arnold, John Arnold, Thomas Arnold. Witnessed by Jos. Jenckes junr., Samuell Comestock. Recorded Jun 3, 1710.

Other-Begin:
p.393 3 Dec 1685 Land laid out unto William Hawkins junr in right of his father William Hawkins Senr, 50 acres in 2 parcels. "Cornner with a White Oake Tree marked Which is also a bound tree of land of Samuell ComStock....with land of Samuell ComStock" Laid out ye day & yeare abovesaid by me Thomas Olney Surveior; Recorded Jul 21, 1710 by Tho. Olney, Clerk

Military:
History of Woonsocket
p.100 Footnote: "Aug 9, 1710, Capt Samuel Comstock ordered Henery Mowry of the 2nd Company, to impress men to go with him to Port Royal." (Queen Anne's War) I found the actual document in the Manuscript file of William A. Mowry, Mss 290, NEHGS Library, Boston:
Folder 37
Samuel Comstock, Capt 1710
"To you Henery Mory of the Second Company of the Town of
Providence you are hereby Required in her Majesties
name Anne Queen of Grate Britans, &c
To go forth with to Impress one or more able solder to go against
her majesties Enemies to Port Ryall that are under my Command
and make return of your Doing same and for your Acting in
The premeses this warrant Shall be your Discharge given
under my hand this 9th August 1710
Samuell Comstock Capt"

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Queen_Anne's_War
Queen Anne's War (1702?1713), as it was known in the English colonies, was the second in a series of French and Indian Wars fought between France and England in North America for control of the continent. The conflict was part of the War of the Spanish Succession, which was primarily fought in Europe. In addition to the two main combatants, the war also involved numerous American Indian tribes allied with each nation, and Spain, which was allied with France. The Treaty of Utrecht in 1713 resulted in the French cession of claims to the territories of Hudson Bay, Acadia, and Newfoundland to Britain, while retaining Cape Breton and other islands in the Gulf of St. Lawrence.

http://www.blupete.com/Hist/NovaScotiaBk1/Part2/Ch09.htm
The 1710 British campaign against Port Royal was under the command of the 55 year old Englishman, Francis Nicholson. The two other prominent officers in this campaign was a 42 year old gentleman from Edinburgh, Colonel Samuel Vetch and the Boston born Sir Charles Hobby, a 45 year old who had been knighted by the queen in 1705. The French, for their part, had one of their most capable leaders that they had ever sent to America, Daniel d'Auger de Subercase; but, the odds for Subercase this time around were too long: 2,000 well supplied English troops versus his 300 (ill-equipped, tired, and discouraged); the French garrison gave up within ten days. On the 25th of September all the British were ashore. Several days were to pass before the British artillery and stores were landed; and, all along, cannons roared from both the French fort and the English bomb-ketch. By the 29th the English were ready to get down to their siege business. Within 24 hours, the French sent out a white flag of truce and the guns fell silent. Unlike those of 1704 and 1707, the attack on Port Royal in 1710 had "royal support." This support, which consisted of ships-o-war and British regulars, accounted for its success in no small measure.
Port Royal had been taken before, indeed twice before, and both times by men from New England: under Major Robert Sedgwick in August of 1654 and under Sir William Phips in May of 1690: in each case it had been restored to France by treaty. The taking of Port Royal in 1710 is particularly important to our story, for, with its capture came England's claims to all of Acadia. The Conquest was a key element in the framing of the North American issues in French-British treaty negotiations of 1711-1713.
http://freepages.genealogy.rootsweb.ancestry.com/~katy/comstk/b279.html#P279



Other-Begin:
Vol XI, Town Meeting 1, p.153 27 Jan 1711 Chosen for Pettey jury: Capt. Sml. Comstock & Lt. Tho. Harris

Other-Begin:
Vol.XVII p.424-425 16 Mar 1710/11. Dividing run between John Sayles & Nathaniell Mawrey between their homestead farms. Signed by both. Witnessed by Samuell Comestock and Richard Phillipps. Recorded Aprill the 6th 1711 by Tho. Olney, Clerk.

Other-Begin:
Vol.XVI, p.64-67 Last Will and Testament of Thomas Hopkins witnessed by Eliezer Arnold and Samuel Comstock on 26 Apr 1711. Recorded 3 Jun 1718.

Other-Begin:
Vol. XI, Town Meeting, 1, p.158 8 Nov 1711 Chosen for Deputies at General Assembly at Newport ye 14th instant: Capt. Saml. Comstock, Mr. Eleazar Arnold, Tho. Arnold Junr, Willm Wilkinson.

Residence:
History of Woonsocket
p.52 Tax Payers, June 16, 1713, include: Daniel Comstock, Hazadiah Comstock, Sam. Comstock, Capt., Samuel Comstock, Jr., Thomas Comstock (Samuel and his 4 oldest sons)

Other-Begin:
Vol. IX, p.29-30 23rd of Aprill 1716. Laying out of a highway through Wesquetomscutt and Wansocott [Woonsocket] Lands and so over the River Called the branch ...."Crassing the said path sevorall times with bounds plainely marked by Hazadiah Comestockes and a Long by Samuell Comestockes and Richard Spreagues to the Branch of the River" Signed by John Arnold, Henry Mawrey, Samuell Comestock Junr.

Other-Begin:
p.98-100 Last Will & Testament of Joseph Phillips dated 21 Aug 1719 witnessed by Samuell Comestock, Samuell Wilkinson, and Phillip Pheteplace. Recorded 5 Oct 1719.

Other-Begin:
Vol.XVII p.297 26 Feb 1722 Petition of Mr. Eliezer Arnold, Capt. Samuel Comstock, Mr. Edward Smith and 29 others for a "Conveniant High way" through that Tract of Land Called Inmans Purchase. [Also Vol XII, p.30]

Other-Begin:
Vol XII, p.81 9 Nov 1724 Concerning opening the highway at Westcotomset, Samuel Comstock is appointed Constable in place of Joseph Hernden.

Will:
Samuel's Will was dated 21 Dec 1726, probated 18 Sep 1727. Executrix his wife, Elizabeth, daughter of Thomas and Phebe (Parkhurst) Arnold. Her will probated 8 Dec 1747.

Will at Providence dated 21 Dec 1726; proved 18 Sep 1727. He died 27 May 1727. Names wife Elizabeth. Sons Samuel, Hazadiah, Thomas, Daniel, John, Ichabod, & Job. Daughter Elizabeth Sayles. Wit: Joseph Arnold Jr, Thomas Arnold Jr., Robt Douglass.

Property:
27 Feb 1727, his father Samuel Comstock deeded to Samuel, Jr. 100 acres "on both sides of a river that runs out of a cedar swamp known as Wansocut (Woonsocket) cedar swamp, being that on which son Samuel now resides"

Samuel* married Elizabeth* Arnold on 11 Nov 1678 in Providence, Providence Co, Rhode Island. Elizabeth* (daughter of Thomas* Arnold, Sr (immigrant) and Phebe* Parkhurst, (Immigrant)) was born in 1654 in Watertown, Middlesex Co, Massachusetts; died on 20 Oct 1747 in Smithfield, Providence Co, Rhode Island. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Other Events and Attributes:

• Will: 8 Dec 1747, Smithfield, Providence Co, Rhode Island; probated

Notes:

NOTE: Elizabeth Arnold, daughter of Thomas, traces her ancestry through the British Royalty to William the Conqueror. See article on the Arnold Family, New England Historical and Genealogical Register. Vol. 33, 1879. Abridged Compendium of Am. Geneal. Vol. 1 p 839, lists Eliz. Comstock, b. 1690; m. John Arnold 1692-1777.

Will:
Will of widow Elizabeth Comstock of Smithfield, 10 Apr 1745, proved 8 Dec 1747. Bequests to sons, Thomas, Daniel, Ichabod, John, Job, Hazadiah; daughter, Elizabeth Sayles; grandson, David Comstock; granddaughter Sarah Aldrich & great granddaughter Anne Steere. [these last three descendants of son Samuel, deceased.] Son Thomas was Executor, witnesses to the will were Joseph Arnold Junr, Enoch Arnold, and Thomas Sayles [who was also the Council Clerk]. Daniel Arnold and David Comstock took the inventory and appraised the estate the value of which was over 400 pounds.
Recorded in the Smithfield Council Book, Vol. 1, LDS Microfilm #959528

Elizabeth Comstock, widow, departed this life 20 October 1747.

p.357
This Tenth Day of April in the Eighteenth year of
his majesties reign George the Second Kin og
Great Britain &c AD 1745 I Elizabeth Comsto
ck of Smithfield in the County of Providence and
Colony of Rhodeisland in New England widow being
in reasonable good health and of perfect mind
and memory and considering the mortality of my
body do make and ordain this my Last Will &
Testament. My body I recomend to ye Earth to
be buried Decently at ye disc retion of my Exe
cutor here after named and as touching that
worldly estate as it hath pleased God to Bless
me with in this Life I Give demise and dispose
of as followeth --

Im primis I Give and Bequeath to my Grand Son David
Comstock Twenty shillings old tenor to be paid out of my
estate to him or his heirs.

Item I give and bequeath to my Grand Daughter Sarah
Aldrich ten shillings old tenor to be paid out of my
estate to her or to her heirs

p.358
Item I give and Bequeath to my great grand daughter
Anne Steer Ten Shillings old tenor to be paid
out of my estate

Item I Give and bequeath to my son John Comstock
Twenty shillings old tenor to be paid to him or his
Heirs out of my estate

Item I Give and Bequeath to my son Job Comstock Twenty
Shillings old tenor to be paid to him or his heirs
The reason of my giving my above named grand
Children only twenty shillings to one and Ten
shillings apiece to ye others is because their
father has had more out of his fathers estate
Than some other of my children have had: and
the Reason of my giving my sons John & Job
only Twenty Shilling apiece is because they have had
more out of their fathers estate than some other
of my children had had

Item I Give and Bequeath to my Son Hazadiah Comstock
forty Shillings old tenor to be paid out of my estate
to him or his heirs

Item I Give and bequeath to my Son Thomas Comstock
Twenty pounds old tenor to be paid out of my estate
to him or his heirs

Item I Give and bequeath to my son Daniel Comstock
Ten pounds old tenor to be paid out of my estate
to him or his heirs

Item I Give and Bequeath to my Son Ichabod Comstock
five pounds old tenor to be paid out of my estate
to him or his heirs

Item I Give to my Daughter Elizabeth Sayles Forty shillings
old tenor to be paid to her or heirs out of my estate
and also my wearing apparial of al Sorts I Give to
my Said Daughter and if after my debts and
funeral charges paid and ye above sums given
and bequeathed and paid in manner as above said if

p.359
There should remain any part more that then I
give and Bequeath the remaining part to be
Eqully divided between my children and their heirs whose
names are here after mentioned. Hazadiah Com
stock Daniel Comstock Ichabod Comstock Job Com
stock and Thomas Comstock which said Thomas
Comstock I make my sole Executor of this my
Last Will and Testament and I do utterly disa
[word marked out, prob should have been "vow"] revoke and Dissalow all and every other
former Testaments wills Legacies and bequests
and Executors by me in any ways before named willed
and bequeathed ratefying and Confirming this and
no other to be my Last Will and Testament.

In Witness where of I have hereunto Sett my hand
and Seal the Day and year first within mentioned.
Signed Sealed published pronouned and declared by the said
Elizabeth Comstock to be her
Last Will & Testament in the
present of us
Jos Arnold Junr
Enoch Arnold
Thos Sayles
The mark of Elizabeth Comstock

At a Town Council held in Smithfield in the County of
Providence by adjournment the Eighth day of December
AD 1747 the above written will will was presented
before this Council and Mr. Thomas Comstock who
was made Executor to sd will approved before this
Council and accepted of ye place of Being executor
to sd will: And the witnesses to sd will Viz: Mr
Enoch Arnold & Thomas Sayles Two of ye sd witnesses
to sd will approved before this Council and on Solemn
Engagement Declared that they see the afore said
Elizabeth Comstock the testator Sign publish pro-
nounce & Declare the same to be her Last Will &
Testament and that they in her presents Signed

p.360
as witness to the same and at the same time saw
Joseph Arnold Junr sign as ye other witness and
that she ye sd Testator was at ye same time in
perfect mind & memory where upon it is voted
by this Council that ye afore written will be
and it is here by proved & accipted to be a Last full
will & Testament & and ord. to be recorded.
Test. Thos. Sayles, Council Cler
Recorded Decbr ye 15th AD 1747 pr Thos Sayles Council Cler

A True Inventory of all and Singular the goods
chattles and Audits of Elizabeth Comstock of Smith
field in the County of Providence &c widow Deceased
Prised at Smithfield aforesd ye 27 of October 1747
by us the Subscribers.

Notes:

Married:
That Sam: Coumstock, & Elizabeth Arnold, theire publiccion of Marriage, was sett forth on ye 16th of Septembr. 1678 By John Whipple junr. Assistant And was joyned togather in Marriage on ye 22nd. of November 1678 By John Whipple junr. Assistant.
"The Early Records of the Town of Providence" Volume IX; Being part of the Book of Records of Town Meetings No. 3 1677 to 1750 and Other Papers. p.188 c1895

Notes:

NOTE: John's sister Joanna Inman m Nathaniel Palmer, son of George Palmer and Bethia Mowry. There is a Jonathan Palmer whose daughter Sarah m a Bonham. Sarah had a child Jonathan Bonham. Sarah and Jonathan were both mentioned in the will of Jonathan Palmer in Will Book F pg 443 dated 1802 according to index to Wills of Loudoun Co, Virginia by Louisa Hutchison.

Birth:
write-up says John was firstborn and his birth was recorded in the fall of 1648 in Braintree.

John* married Mary* Wightman between 1669 and 1674 in Providence Co, Rhode Island. Mary* (daughter of Valentine* Bartlett Wightman (also Whitman), Sr (immigrant) and Mary* (..) Wightman) was born on 16 Nov 1652 in Providence Co, Rhode Island; died on 27 Apr 1720 in Providence Co, Rhode Island. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Chaddus Brown & Elizabeth Sharparowe sons:

1. Rev John Brown 2. Jeremiah Brown
his dtr Sarah Brown his son Joseph
Sarah Brown's dtr Joseph m Sarah "Mary" Pray (1st cousin once removed)
Sarah "Mary" Pray

Jeremiah* married Mary* "Maxy" Gardner about 1675 in Rhode Island. Mary* was born about 1650; died after 1691. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Other Events and Attributes:

• Other-Begin: May 1671, Providence, Providence Co, Rhode Island
• Property: 21 May 1675, Providence, Providence Co, Rhode Island
• Other-Begin: 1676, King Philip's War, Providence, Providence Co, Rhode Island
• Other-Begin: Jan 1677, Providence, Providence Co, Rhode Island
• Residence: 1 Jul 1679, Providence, Providence Co, Rhode Island
• Other-Begin: Between 1680 and 1684, Providence, Providence Co, Rhode Island
• Residence: 16 May 1680, Pautuckett River, Providence, Providence Co, Rhode Island
• Other-Begin: 2 Jun 1684, Providence, Providence Co, Rhode Island
• Other-Begin: 1687, Providence, Providence Co, Rhode Island
• Property: Between 1687 and 1696, Providence, Providence Co, Rhode Island
• Other-Begin: Abt Feb 1691, Providence, Providence Co, Rhode Island
• Property: 8 Nov 1696, Providence, Providence Co, Rhode Island
• Property: Jan 1697, Providence, Providence Co, Rhode Island
• Property: 20 Sep 1708, Providence, Providence Co, Rhode Island
• Property: 7 Apr 1714, Providence, Providence Co, Rhode Island
• Property: 23 Jul 1717, Providence, Providence Co, Rhode Island
• Property: 29 May 1721, Providence, Providence Co, Rhode Island
• Property: 27 Mar 1724, Providence, Providence Co, Rhode Island
• Will: 29 Apr 1733, Providence, Providence Co, Rhode Island; written
• Will: 1 Feb 1734, Providence, Providence Co, Rhode Island; proved

Notes:

Title: The Genealogical Dictionary of Rhode Island
According to this book John Pray was the son of Richard, son of Quentin.
John d. 9 Oct 1733 in Providence, RI. His wife was Sarah Brown who died sometime after her husband. They were married 14 Nov 1678.

Children: Richard, John, Hugh, Mary Pray m. ----- Brown, Catherine Pray m. ------ Comstock,
Sarah Pray m. ------ Brown, Penelope Pray m. ------
Aldrich, Martha Pray m. ---- Wilkinson.

(It looks like this info may have come from a will as they don't have the first names of any of the son in laws.)

"John Pray was a resident of Providence, Rhode Island. It was recorded 14 Aug 1676 that he was one of those "who staid and went not away" in King Philip's War. John was declared a freeman in 1682. He named his father, Richard Pray, in an indenture dated 6 March 1694 and again 27 May 1724 when
he deeded land to David Shippee. He deeded his house and lands where he lived to his son, Richard, 29 Mar 1733.

John Pray died testate. In his will dated 23 July 1717 and proved 1 Feb, he named his wife, Sarah, and each of his children".

A listed source is "The Genealogical Dictionary of Rhode Island", p. 359.

Richard Pray son of Quentin was b. in 1630 in England; d. in 1693, Providence, RI. Wife, Mary. d. in 1686.

Children: Ephraim and John

Elizabeth, widow of Benjamin Hearnden, d. after 1701, m. Richard Pray, 1688.

http://wc.rootsweb.ancestry.com/cgi-bin/igm.cgi?op=GET&db=070664&id=I0933


Other-Begin:
Makes Oath of Allegiance to Charles II

Property:
Father Richard deeds him house & land
1675 21 May ? Age: 22
Providence, Providence Co., RI
Richard gives him his dwelling house at Loquasqussuck with all its fencing and fruit trees and a half Purchase Right in lands and meadows which Richard was given by the town as an original Purchaser.
Early Records of the Town of Providence 14:214-215

Other-Begin:
Was ?one who staid and went not away? during King Philip's War 1676 ? Age: 23
Providence, Providence Co., RI
Those staying won a share in disposition of Indian captives whose services were sold for a term of years. On 14 Aug. is on the committee of the First Company of Indians meeting to settle disposal of captives; signs letter concerning those plans.
Early Records of the Town of Providence 15:151, 154, 156

Other-Begin:
Signs letter relieving committee of Indian duties
Jan (assuming following January)
Providence, Providence Co., RI

Letter releases Thomas Fenner, William Hopkins and John Whipple Jr. from task of selling the captive Indians? indentures, for which the members of the Company each received 16s 4 pence half penny.

?Early Records of the Town of Providence 15:161-162

Residence:
Taxed 1s 10 1/2d 1679 1 Jul ? Age: 26
Providence, Providence Co., RI
Early Records of the Town of Providence 15:187

Other-Begin:
Petitions for a highway Feb Providence, Providence Co., RI
John and John Wilkenson petition the town council to have a highway laid out at Loquasquassuck ?to goe up into ye country.?
Early Records of the Town of Providence 8:128

Residence:
His dwelling house on valley on Pautuckett River mentioned
1680 16 May ? Age: 27
Providence, Providence Co., RI
The description is for land laid out to Joseph Woodward, husband of sister Mary.
Early Records of the Town of Providence 14:50

Other-Begin:
Chosen constable 1684 2 Jun ? Age: 31
Providence, Providence Co., RI
Early Records of the Town of Providence 8:140

Other-Begin:
Pays a 1s 2d tax 1687 ? Age: 34
Providence, Providence Co., RI
Levied to pay Joseph Woodward for bringing up Thomas Waters? child.
Early Records of the Town of Providence 17:108

Property:
(date not given - only estimate)
Exchanges acreage with John Whipple Mar Providence, Providence Co., RI
John Whipple deeds John 6 acres, part swamp & part dry lowland, on the west side of the Pautuckett River at Loquasqussuck, part of Whipple?s farm. In turn Pray gives Whipple 6 acres adjoining eastern part of Whipple?s farm deeded Pray by father Richard.
?Early Record of the Town of Providence 14:235-236, 264-266

Other-Begin:
(Dated only "February, perhaps 1691?) - witnessed a land deal between John Daley and Ann Pratt.
Probably pertaining to property deal where John Daley had bought 90 acres from a James Phillips on Aug 27, 1689; and exchanged this farm for one owned by Anne Pratt, June 2, 1690.

Property:
Has 22 acres laid out to John* Pray
1696 8 Dec ? Age: 43
Providence, Providence Co., RI
The land was from the Second division in Right of John* Pray's deceased father Richard. The acres were originally laid out on John Mawrey?s land by mistake & the new site is on both sides of the Wanasquatuckett River downstream from Nonplus Hill.

Property:
Sells 1/2 of a whole Purchase Right
Jan (assume of year 1697)
Providence, Providence Co., RI
The land was a Whole Purchase Right of ?thatchbedd? out of the Right which belonged to his father Richard Pray.
Early Records of the Town of Providence 20:176

Property:
sells William Crawford half a 40-foot lot by the Salt Water
1708 20 Sep ? Age: 55
Providence, Providence Co., RI
The acres, purchased by his father Richard, were sold for £2 5s.
Early Records of the Town of Providence 20:278-279

Property:
sells 80 acres to Joseph Davis for £40
Genealogical Dictionary of Rhode Island p. 359

Property:
Deeds home farm to son Richard
1717 23 Jul ? Age: 64
Providence, Providence Co., RI
Deed for love all his farm where he dwells, with dwelling house, that is half at signing and half at decease of both parents.

Property:
Sells John Inman 16 acres in original Right of Richard Pray
1721 29 May ? Age 68
Genealogical Dictionary of Rhode Island p. 359

Property:
Sells David Shippe 10 acres for £3 10s
1724 27 Mar ? Age: 71
Providence, Providence Co., RI
Genealogical Dictionary of Rhode Island p. 359

Will:
Will: 29 APR 1733 Providence, Providence, RI
Note: "Pray, John, of Providence, husbandman, being aged. Will dated 29 Apr 1726, proved 5 Feb 1733/4, pgs 1-3. Mentions: Wife Sarah. Sons John, Hugh, & Richard. Daughters Mary Brown, Cathrin Comstock, Sarah Brown, Penalopy Aldrich, & Martha Wilkenson."
Rhode Island Families 2:266 abstracted from Smithfield book 1:1

Death: 9 OCT 1733 in Smithfield, Providence, RI


Will:
Will proved 1 Feb. 1734 (1733/4). Inventory: £64, 4s, viz: wearing apparel, books, copper pennies, featherbed, wood bed, flock bed, pewter, warming pan, 2 razors, yarn, 2 cows, calf, 15 sheep.
Rhode Island Families 2:266 citing Smithfield Probate 1:1
U.S., New England Marriages Prior to 1700

John* married Sarah* Brown on 14 Nov 1678 in Providence Co, Rhode Island. Sarah* (daughter of John* Brown, (immigrant) and Mary* Holmes, (immigrant)) was born about 1657 in Providence Co, Rhode Island; died about 1733 in Rhode Island. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Married:
On 18 Sept. John and Sarah publish their intention to marry and are married on 14 Nov. by Thomas Olney Jr.

Early Records of the Town of Providence 9:188
U.S., New England Marriages Prior to 1700