1. Thomas Rood(e) b. abt 1625/26, Glastonbury, County Somerset, England, m. (1) 24 Jan 1647, in Norwich, New London, CT, Sarah (Leffingwell or) White, b. abt 1629, England, d. 16 Mar 1668, Norwich, New London, CT, buried: Sachem Burial ground, Norwich, CT, and in (committed incest with his daughter), Sarah Rood, b. Oct 1649, Norwich, New London, CT, (daughter of Thomas Rood(e) and Sarah (Leffingwell or) White) d. 9 Feb 1713/1716, Norwich, New London, CT. Thomas died 18 Oct 1672, Saybrook(now Norwich, New London, CT), buried: Sachem Burial ground, Norwich, CT.

From The Ancestors and Descendants of Moses Jackson Rood and Ann Janette Burdick, 1995, contributor Robert W. Johns:

Mr. Robert Rood Buell, a noted Genealogist of the Rood family, whose notes on the family are contained in 13 uncataloged boxes in the Toledo-Lucas County Public Library in Toledo, Ohio, wrote to the editor in October of 1967 with the following comments: "Yes, I do know why Thomas (1) Rood died by hanging at Say Brook and have read (laboriously) all the testimony in the original court files. He has the dubious distinction of being the only Colonist in N. America executed for incest. His dau. Sarah (also=his second wife, by whom son (gdson) George) was apparently taken under the wing of Dr. George Bushnell of New London who looked after her until her death.......Incest in Colonial New England was NOT uncommon but isn't found in the published books."

A Court of Assistants held at Hartford october 8th. 1672.

[In Margin] Wm Leete esqr dept Govr. mr. Samll Willys Capt John Tallcot Mr. Wm Joanes mr Henry Woolcot mr John Allyn et Secry mr James Richards mr James Bishop mr Anth: Howkins Grand Jury: Thom: Bunce phillip Lowes phillip Davis Nath Goodwin Jobe drake Thomas Bissell Timo Tearll(?) John Goodrich John Kilbourn Daniel Harris Daniel Sherman John Hosford Jury of life & death Lnt Walter Fyler Ens. Nich: Olmstead Bartho: Barnerd mr James Steele Georg Grave Samll Boxeman Eliez Kimberly Jonath: Gillet senr Jacob drake Nath: Loomys Nath: Willet Stephen Taylor petty Jury Ens olmstead James Steele Eliez Kimberly Steven Chester Jonath Gillet Nath: Loomys John Belding Stephen Bosnor(?) Bartho: Barnard George: Grave Thomas. Olcot Nath. Willett./

Thomas Rhood thou art indicted by the name of Thomas Rhood for not haveing the feare of God before thine eyes thou hast committed that abominable sin of incest haveing carnall copulation with Sarah Rhood they reputed daughter for which according to the law of God & the law of this colony thou deservest to dye: the Grand Jury fownd the Bill as to matter of fact./

The prisoner being called & the Indictment read to him in court he owned himselfe Guilty of the Indicement the case being refered to the Jury of life & death they return they finde the prisoner Thomas Rhood Guilty of the fact according to the Indicement.

Sarah Roode thou are Indicted by the name of Sarah Roode for not having the Fear of God before thine eyes thou hast commited that abominable sin of Incest haveing carnall copulation with Thomas Rhood Thy reputed father for which according to the law of God & the law of this colony thou deservest to dye--- The Grand Jury find the Bill as to matter of fact./

The prisoner being called & the Indictment read to her in court she being demanded whither she were Guilty according to the Indictment she answered she was Guilty according to the Indicement. The case being refered to the Jury of life & death they return they find the prisoner Guilty of the fact according to the Indicement.

The court haveing reced. the verdict of the Jury upon the Indictment of Thomas Rhood & with much seriousness considered the same doe see come to pass sentence of death upon Thomas Roode which accordingly was prounounced in open court as followeth Thomas Rhood thou art to goe from here to the place from whence thou camest & in due time to be carryed from thence to the place of execution & there to be hanged by the neck till though art dead & and then cut down & buried.

Later in the Month of October 1672, we find:

This court being met according to the adjournment ordered the secretary to make a warant in their name to the marshall to see that the execution of Thomas Rhood be attended & performed the 18th day of this Month according to the extent of the sentence.

Court october 19th. 1672.

[In Margin] wm Leet esqr dept Govr. mr Samll Willys Capt John Talcott mr Henry Woolcot mr John Allyn et secry mr James Richards mr Anthony Howkins

The court haveing considered the verdict of the Jury concerning Sarah Rood & finding some of the assistants not fully sattisfyed therein so as to concur to the passing of sentence of death upon her the court doe see cause to refer the Issue of this matter to the next court of assistants she the sayd Sarah Rhode in the mean while to be continued in safe custody.

This court appoynts Capt Tallcot & the secretary to agree with Danll Garrad concerning his charg(?) bout Thomas Roode & to order the payment thereof & what shall be allowed Danll Garrad as an aforesayd the Treasurer to order the same out of roodes estate into the Treasury againe./

At a specially Court held at Hartford Novembr: 8th: 1672.

[In Margin] mr Samll Willys Capt John Tallcot mr Henry Woolcot mr John Allyn et Secry mr James Richards

This court considering of sarah Roodes case doe take notice of a great appearance of force layd up upon her spirit by her father overaweing & Tiranical abuse of his parentall authority besides his bodily striveings which not onely at first brought her into the snare but allso in after yeilding to his Temptation & the consealment of the fact & cause of being with childe which kind of forceing to a person so ignorant & weake in minde to withstand the Tempation These & the like Grownds doe render her not equally Guilty but that as the fathers fault was much aggravated so the child's is exceedingly mittigated thereby wherefore the sentence of this court is that shee be severly whipt on the naked body once at Hartford & once at Norwich that others may heare & fear & do no more such abominable wickednesse./

From "Public Records of the Colony of Connecticut from 1665 to 1678" by J. Hammond Trumbull (Transcribed) Hartford 1852

A Court of Election held at Hartford, May 9, 1672

This court by their vote ordered that Thomas Rood, now in durance, shall be returned to the County Court at New London, next June, there to be examined concerning that accusation is layed to his charge; and if it appear that the sayd Rood be guilty of incest, then they are to return him to the prison to be secured for a tryall at the next Court of Assistants; but if it doe not appeare, then they are to proceed according to law to a jayle deliuery.

A General Court held at Hartford, Oct. 10th, 1672

The Deputy Governor and Assistants desired the advice of the Generall Court concerning Incest*, whether the law of this Colony that orders in defect of a lawe we should have recourse to the word of God for of lawe, and seeing the word of God doth anex death to be the penalty of Incest, whether such person or persons that have comitted that sin ought not to be put to death, the Court having considered the case declared their judgements to be that such persons as are proved to be guilty of Incest, they ought by the lawe of God and or lawes as now they stand to be put to death.

*Thomas and Sarah Rood were tried at the Court of Assistants at Hartford, Oct. 8th, 1672, on a charge of incest. Both pleaded guilty to the indictment. Thomas Rood was sentenced to be executed on the 18th inst; his daughter, to be severly whipt, "that others may heare and feare." The Colony laws made no special provision for the punishment od incest; and this appears to have been the first instance of a prosecution for that crime, within the Colony.

The Court of Assistants in June, 1672, submitted to several of the neighboring ministers, the query whether a person guilty of the crime charged against the prisoner ought to be brought to death? The reply, signed by Rev. Messrs. Whiting, Bulkeley, Haynes and Collins, was in the afformative; and doubtless served to remove any scruples the Court may have previously entertained. (Rec. of Court of Assist's, 1. 11-13, 15; Ecclestical Papers, 1. 39.)

A General Courte held at Hartford, Oct. 8th, 1674

Whereas there debts due to the country and perticular persons from the estate of Thomas Roode more than his personall estate amounts unto, this Court impowers the administrators of sd estate to bargain and sell so much of the land as may with his personall estate pay the just debts due to the country and perticular persons. This Court doth now accept of fifteen pounds when it is payd, from the estate of sayd Roode for what he owes to the country, and the rest of the estate to be disposed according to the order of the County Court of New London to the children of sayd Roode.

From a handwritten account in the New London County Probate Records:

Know all men by these presents that I Caleb Bushnell of Norwich _ _ _ Doe acknowledge my self to owe and stand justly indebted unto the Court of Probate in the County of New London the full and just sum of twenty four pounds Currant mony of New England to be paid to the said Court upon all Demands by me my heirs Executors and Administrators. In Wittness wherof I have hereunto Lett my hand & seal in New London ye ninth Day of Febr_ anno Domini 1713/14.

The Condition of this obligation is such that if the above bounden Caleb Bushnell administratr of all and singular the goods Chattels and Credits of Sarah Rood _ _ Deceased do make or Cause to be made a True & perfect Inventory of all and singular the goods Chattells and Credits of the said Deceased which have or shall Come to the hands or possession of any other person or persons for him and the same so made do Exhibit or Cause to be exhibited into the Registry of the Court of Probate in New London County at or before the second Tuesday of March _ next ensueing and the same Goods Chattells and Credits and all other the goods Chattells and Credits of the said Deceased at the time of his Death which at any time after shall Come into the hands or possession of ye administr according to law, and further do make or Cause to be made a True and Just account of his said administration at or before the Second Tuesday of April _ Next Ensuing and all the Rest & Residue of the said goods Chattells and Credits which shall be found Remaining upon the said administration etc: the same being first Examined and allowed in ye Court of Probate shall Deliver and pay unto such person or persons Respectively as ye said Court of the Law Shall Limitt and appoint and if it shall herafter appear yt Any Last will & Testament was made by ye Deceased & the Executor or Executors yt in Named do Exhibit the same into the said Court makeing Request to have it allowed and approved accordingly if the said administratr within bounden, being yt unto Required, do Render and Deliver the sd Letters of administration approbation of such Testament being first had and made in this Court, Then This obligation to be Null & void otherwise to Remaine in full force & vertue

Acknowledged in a Court of Probts hold in New London. (signed) Caleb Bushnell Febr. 9th. 1713/14 Comm George Donison Cler

Know all men by these presents, that I Marey Rood, Sister to Sarah Rood late of Norwich Deceased, haveing now Received ye whole estate my lt Sister, stood posest of at her Death, according the inventorie i say i have received, ye sd estate of Caleb Bushnell, i do therefore by these presents aquit and Discharge him ye sd Bushnall, his heirs exects adminits from any further dues or demands upon ye account of sd estate, in Witness whereof i have ______ unso set my hand, ye 11th day of August - 1716

Signed in presence of her

Richd Bushnell Marey M Rood Simon Tracy mark

From The Rood-Rude Record, Vol 1, page 52-53:

THE DISTRIBUTION OF THE LANDS OF THOMAS - 1 ROOD

One of the oldest documents dealing with the Rood-Rude family in America is the Land Records volume of the town of Norwich, Conn., the original of which is to be found in the Connecticut State Library. Because of the fine cooperation between J. Walter Bassett and Harold J. Burt of that library, photostats of this record have been obtained by the editor, and a brief account of the land division as shown in the transcripts may be had from the following exact transcript of pages 269-270 of the original record:

Lands belonging unto Thomas rood of Norwich/- his heirs and assignes---

Imprie-entered July 7th 1702:

Fifteen acres and an halfe of woodland more or less adjoyning to the land of Samuel Bliss on the East side of Shoutackkitt River/ abutting on sd land westerly fifty eight rodds/ abutting on a highway south easterly twenty eight rodds/ and on sd highway East sixty four rodds/ and then abutting on the sd highway south easterly eight rodds/ abutting easterly on comons astreight line eightty rodds/ abutting north on comons through the swamp thirty two rodds/ abutting west on ad Blises land seventy six rods/ laid out March 1702/ (Attest) Christopher Huntington Surveior

2d ite-entered Decembr 18th 1703:

Eight acres of pasture Land be the same more or less lying on the Eastward side of Queenabauge River beginning att a black oake tree from thence running Southward Sixty four rodes to awhite oak tree/ and thence running twenty eight rodds eastward to a red oake tree in a brook/ and from thence running in a streight line Thirty six rodds to the mouth of the same brook that runs into Queenabauge this land abutts east & west on Greefield larebys Land and on the comons Southward, otherwise on Queenabauge River/, agrant from the Town as appears on the book of Grants --

3d ite-Entered July 5th 1704:

one hundred and fifty acres by estimation be the same more or less on the East side of the Queenabauge River/ beginning att a white oake tree from thence running eastwardly astreight line one hundred and seventy four rodds to a white oake tree marked from thence runing Northeastwardly astreight line sixty two rodds to ablack oake tree marked, and from thence running astreight line one hundred and eightty rodds northwestwardly to awallnutt tree marked/ from thence southwestard astreight line on hundred and Twelve rodds, to awhite oake tree marked/ from thence astreight line southeastardly thirtysix rodds to a white oake tree marked, from thence running astreight line southwardly one hundred and twenty six rodds to the first mentioned white oake which is marked and is standing neare the graves/ purchased of Stephen Gifford as appears by deed, remeasured june the 30th 1804

(NOTE: the above lands were those granted to Thomas Rood when Norwich was founded in 1660, as appear on the Book of Grants. They were evidently not surveyed until 1702-1704, as shown above. By tradition, a Mohegan burial ground was located on Thomas' land, to which "the graves" must refer.)

Lands belonging to ye heirs of Thomas Rood senio Their proportions severally as Delivered by Thomas Leffingwell & Thomas Adgate Administrators/-

Imprie----- To Thomas Rood five acres of land at ye great plaine at five pounds which is in ye further lot. To Sarah Rood two acres in ye further lot in ye great plaine at two pounds, in ye little boggy meadow one acre & half at one pound, ten shillings, her fathers lot on Wawecoas hill at one pound ten shillings/ -To Micah Rood, Joseph Rood & Rachel Rood the eighty acres of Land on the Middle hill at fifteen pounds, to be equally divided/ at fifteen pounds/ -To John Rood the lot in ye little plaine, he maintaining ye generall fence belonging to the whole allotment to sd John Rood five pounds in Meadow at Yanticke at three pounds pr acre To Samuell Rood & Benjamin Rood ye remainder of ye Meadow at Yanticke and seven acres of Land at Conecticutt plaine, to be equally Divided between them at five pounds apiece/-To George Rood five pounds, to say the hither lot at ye great plaine/-To ye Town Clerk of Norwich you are to record to ye heirs of ye above sd Thomas Rood, their several proportions in Land as is above expressed by me, Thomas Leffingwell, administrator

Ffeb 16th 1713/14

Entered ye 13th of ffeb 1713/14 (Mark attest) R. Bushnell Recor

(NOTE: We also find on the lower half of page 517 of the original records:)

Ten acres of Land Laid outt to the heirs of Thomas Rood Late of Norwich Deceast, on the acct of his Wawecos Hill Division that was Laid Down to the Town, Near the Head of Wading Cow Brook, Begining at a heap of Stones which is the South west corner: Thence abutting northwesterly on Commons Sixty four Rods to a heap of Stones Thirty Two Rods Thence abutting Southeasterly on Commons to a heap of Stones Sixty Eight Rods Thence abutting South westerly Twenty Rods to the first corner Laid out March 30th 1733 by us Committee

Benajeh Bushnell Thomas Waterman

Enterd march 19th 1733/4

(NOTE: The above division of lands of Thomas -1 Rood who died in 1672 was undoubtedly performed shortly after his death, recorded from the original Book of Grants in the newly surveyed Land Record and thus brought down to today's descendants. It is interesting to note that the name was originally spelled ROOD by the first generations, whereas RUDE appears later in the family history. RRB)

Thomas Roode was executed 18 Oct 1672 Norwich, CT for incest with his daughter, Sarah who bore a son, George. Trumbull Colonial Record II, page 184. He and his daughter, Sarah, pleaded guilty to the charge of incest. He was executed on 18 Oct 1672 and his daughter severly whipped, "that others may heare and feare." The child, George Rood, was raised by Lt. THomas Leffingwell, referred to as uncle, which may mean that Thomas' wife, Sarah, may have been a Leffingwell. No proof has been found.

The Rood-Rude Record, Vol II, page 20:

In Part I., Hartford Society of Colonial Wars in the State of Connecticut (1913) p. 34 is a transcript of the vital records of Norwich in which we find a fragmentary account of the birth of Thomas and Sarah Rood's children: The names & ages of ye children of THOMAS ROOD:

Sarah Rood was borne in Octob Ano: Dom 1649

Thomas Rood was borne in march An: 1651

Micah Rood was borne ffeb An: 1653

Rachell Rood was borne in ffeb. 1655

John Rood was borne in Septr 1658

Joseph Rood was borne in March Ano: 1661

Benjamin Rood was borne in ffeb. Ano: 1663

Mary Rood was borne in march 1674 & dyed ye same month and yeare

Samuel Rood was born in June 1666

Sarah Roode ye wife of Thomas Roode deceased in March Ano:Dom 1668

From the notes of contributor Janet Pease:

Sarah Rood left all property to her "sister" Mary Rood = 11 Aug 1716 (perhaps wife of one of her brothers).

From the ntoes of contributor Florence R. Cleaver:

Thomas Roode is said to have been a resident of Saybrook, Conn., before moving to the area, later known as Nine Mile Square and which, 11 or 12 years later, became Norwich, Conn. His name appeared first in records of the area in 1649. His 1st wife, Sarah, is believed to have been a Waite or Leffingwell, as their children were 1st cousins to the children of Lt. Thomas Leffingwell, ancestor of the governor.

Thomas was on excellent terms with the Indians and his early land acquisitions were from the sachem Squanto. He was held in high regard by them since several of their sacred places were on his property.

Thomas Roode may have been the attorney "Thomas Roode" that appeared in a Boston Court in 1640/41.

The Rood/Rude Record:

We know definitely that Thomas-1 Rood was not on the "Mayflower" when she made her historic voyage to Massachusetts in 1620. But one of his grandsons, Jabez-3, son of his son Samuel-2, married Mehitable Standish who descends from Myles Standish of Plymouth Colony, and one of Jabez's son's married Abigail Standish, another descendant of Myles. Hence, there is a double Mayflower lineage in that branch.

Sarah:

(There still is not any documentation as to whether Sarah, wife of Thomas Roode was Sarah Leffingwell or Sarah White. From my research some believe Leffingwell and then some believe White, but as for their documentation on this none is shown. Unless someone has more evidence to support this, she will remain Sarah Leffingwell or White. MLR) Sarah:

(Since we are dealing with the descendants of Thomas Roode, Sarah's lineage is thru her son, George.)

From Mabry Benson:

Probate: Administration Bond of Caleb Bushnell in the sum of 24 pounds upon the Estate of Sarah Rood deceased was figured in New London February 9th 1713/14. New London Conn Probate Book 2, pg 62, MF#1 311 924.

Children by Sarah (Leffingwell or) White:

+ 2. i Sarah Rood b. Oct 1649.

+ 3. ii Thomas Rood Jr. b. Mar 1651.

+ 4. iii Micah Rood b. Feb 1653.

+ 5. iv Rachell Rood b. 6 Feb 1655.

+ 6. v John Rood b. Sep 1658.

7. vi Joseph Rood b. Mar 1661, Norwich, New London, CT.

+ 8. vii Benjamin Rood b. Feb 1663.

9. viii Mary Rood b. Mar 1664, Norwich, New London, CT, d. Mar 1664. (d. young).

+ 10. ix Samuel Rood b. Jun 1666.

Children by Sarah Rood:

+ 11. x George Rood b. Jul 1672.

2. Sarah Rood (1.Thomas¹) (See marriage to number 1.)

3. Thomas Rood Jr. (1.Thomas¹) b. Mar 1651, Norwich, New London, CT, m. (1) 5 May 1684, in Norwich, New London, CT, Hannah (Bennum) Benham, b. 8 Jan 1661, Wallingford, New London, CT, (daughter of John Benham and Sarah Wilson) d. 15 Oct 1695, Norwich, New London, CT, m. (2) Mary ?. Thomas died aft 1704. (another source states Thomas Jr and Hannah were married in New Haven, New Haven Co, CT).

Children by Hannah (Bennum) Benham:

12. i Jonathan Rood b. 9 Oct 1685, Norwich, New London, CT, m. (1) 6 Oct 1708, in Preston, New London, CT, Margaret Rowe, b. abt 1689, Stonington, New London, CT, d. abt 1716, m. (2) abt 1717, Mary ?. Jonathan died abt 1772, Stafford, Tolland, CT.

13. ii David (or Daniel ?) Rood b. 21 Dec 1688, Norwich, New London, CT, m. (1) 20 Feb 1710, in Preston, New London, CT, Joanna Parke, b. abt 1692, Prob Norwich, New London, CT, (daughter of Robert Parke and Rachel Leffingwell) d. abt 1736, m. (2) Hannah ?.

From Descendants of Thomas Rood (Ruid/Roode/Rude) in America and Allied Families, by John J. Plunkett, 1990:

David Rude and Joanna Parke resided 1710-1717 at Preston; by 1720 at Stafford.

David Rude deeded Stafford land to Jonathan Rood, 23 April 1735.

David and Joanna (Parke) Rood: "David Rood of Preston, " was in Ashford (Windham Co) CT and bought land of Isaac Magoon, 300 acres for 15 lbs. dated 10 February 1717, left for Record 13 Mar 1719. "David Rude of Stafford, " deeded to Dorothy and Martha Toogood land 23 December 1720, recorded 23 January 1724/25. From Assistant Town Clerk, Ashford - Only land records on David Rood/Rude are the 1721 and 1724 land transfers. No mention of Rood/Rude in land records thereafter.

See "Genealogy of the Parke Families of Conn", compiled by Frank Sylvester Parks; 1906, and Supplement 1934. That genealogy states "Joanna" b. 1692; m. David Rude, and lived at Stafford, Conn. Children: Elijah, Thomas, Hannah, Lydia, Joanna, bapt. July 18, 1714; Mary, bapt. Oct 23, 1720; Keziah and Eunice Rude". NOTE: that Parke Genealogy DOES NOT identify Simeon Rood/Rude as the son of David Rude and Joanna Parke.

14. iii Thomas Rood b. 23 Oct 1692, Norwich, New London, CT, m. Mary ?.

15. iv Hannah Rood b. 15 Oct 1695, Norwich, New London, CT.

Children by Mary ?:

16. v Lydia Rood b. (Twin), 7 May 1699, Preston, New London, CT.

17. vi Mary Rood b. (Twin), 7 May 1699, Preston, New London, CT.

4. Micah Rood (1.Thomas¹) b. Feb 1653, Norwich, New London, CT, m. 15 Jan 1691, in Norwich, New London, CT, Sarah (Peake) Dayns, b. 1656, Norwich, New London, CT, (daughter of William Peake and Unknown) d. Lynne, CT. Micah died Dec 1728, Franklin, New London,CT. From The Congregational Church and Society, in Franklin, Connecticut, page 60:

Rood, Micah, the youngest son of Thomas Rood, who was an early settler upon the east side of the Shetucket, removed in 1699 to West Farms, and located in Peck Hollow. Micah had upon his farm an apple tree which bore large, fair fruit, but always with a red globule, like a clot of blood, near the center of each apple. The apple, which has become a great favorite in this vicinity, and is called the Mike apple, from its originator, (*) still retains this peculiarity and is the object of much curious inquiry. The drop of blood invariably found in every apple is a standing wonder in childhood's days, and the story of its origin handed down from father to son for over a hundred years, has at length grown to be a fixed tradition, implicity received. As the story runs, a pedlar entered town, vending such costly and luxurious wares as had never before been seen in the settlement. The simple Micah, dazzled by the display, invited the pedlar to his house, and at an evil moment plunged a knife to his heart beneath this very tree, so that his life blood flowed down and mingled with its roots. The next spring its blossoms changed from snowy white to red, and in August when the apples came tumbling down, large and yellow and juicy, horror of horrors, there hung in every one a drop of blood. There they lay before the terrified Micah, the evidences of his now never to be forgotten deed. With nature in springtime and autumn so strangely prompting the goadings of his conscience, who shall wonder that the simple-hearted Micah should change into a morose and melancholy man, and lead an accursed life? Such was the fact. Time went for naught but the memory of his crime, business was neglected, and soon from a prosperous farmer he became a pauper, dependent upon the charities of the community. In 1717 he was glad to increase his slender means by assuming charge of the meeting house, receiving therefor a peck of corn yearly from each family in the society.(+)

Of his last years and pauper's death the records tell briefly but significantly:--

July 5, 1727. The inhabitants do now, by their vote, agree to allow to each man that watches with Micah Rood, two shillings per night. Also to those who have attended sd Rood by day, three shillings per day.

December 17, 1728. To Jacob Hyde for digging Micah Rood's grave, oe0, 4s, od.

(*) Thirty years ago it was called indifferently the Mike, or the Rood apple, but now the former name has generally obtained.

(+)October ye first day, 1717. Ye society agreed by their vote yt each family shall give Micah Rood a Peck of Corn for sweeping ye Meeting House one year.

THE TRADITION OF MICAH ROOD by P. H. Woodward, Esq.

From the Records and Papers of the New London County Historical Society, 1891.

In a deep valley in the town of Franklin, Conn., about eighty rods from the New London and Northern Railway Station, stands a time-scarred apple tree, the lineal representative of a variety that from the early settlement of the region by the whites, has been perpetuated by successive sproutings over the original roots, and that for one hundred and seventy years has kept alive in the vicinity a tradition of crime and retribution. For nearly a century and three-fourths every apple grown upon that spot has contained a small red globule resembling a drop of blood. Within the memory of the living the fruit ranked as par excellence the local favorite, on account of luscious juiciness, and rich spicy flavor. Latterly, its reputation has declined, partly from neglect and natural deterioration, and partly from the introduction of improved varieties.

It is claimed as a result established by numberous experiments that while seedlings grafted from the primitive stock preserve the other qualities of the fruit, in all such the blood spot refuses to materialize. This elusive peculiarity can only be fixed and diffused by transplanting shoots from the root. From its birth place in Norwich-West-Farms-now Franklin-the "Mike" or "Rood" apple, for it is know[sic] by both names, spread over the adjacent country, and for a long period in Eastern Connecticut no orchard was thought complete without it.

In 1699, Micah Rood, youngest son of Thomas Rood, migrated from east of the Shetucket River, settled in Norwich-West-Farms upon the lands where he subsequently lived and died. West of his house not far away the Susquetonscut danced through a wild, dark, rocky ravine-a retreat still unshorn of its weird, primeval beauty. On the east rose a steep hill destined in due time to be crowned by the Puritan church. Then as now the whippoorwills loved the deep seclusion of the well wooded, well watered valley, and with their melancholy notes broke the solemn stillness of summer nights. Indians were numberous though peaceful. On the western slope of the hill toward the setting sun the colonist built his house. He was young and strong. The acres around were fertile. The situation seemed to hold for him the promise of a long, reputable and tranquil life.

In blessed monotony the seasons came and went, bringing moderate gains to the farmer. Suddenly, however, as the tradition goes, a great change clouded the spirits and altered the habits of Micah Rood. He lost interest in work and worship. Cattle were neglected and neighbors shunned. With swift decline, as autumn deepened into winter, he grew idel, restless and intemperate. Some attributed the change to witchcraft. Others discerned in these wayward actions premonitory signs of madness. In a sparsely settled community, occupied as such are, outside of the routine of daily duties, with matters personal rather than general, the good people discussed the subject with curious but kindly interest.

Winter wore away, the melting snows poured their roaring floods through the chasm near by, the birds returned, and the orchard of Micah Rood bloomed again. On one tree, however, it was noticed that the flowers had turned from white to red. In an age inclined to superstition and credent of marvels, the phenomenon attracted the attention of passers, assuming more ominous significance when afterwards recalled. To this tree, too, Micah seemed to be drawn by a cruel but resistless fascination. After the nerveless labors of the morning, which left his corn overrun with weeds, he sought beneath its shade relief from the heats of midday. Evening found him in the same retreat, alone with the katydids and whipporrwills. Toward the close of August the red blossoms had developed into fruit. When the large, yellow apples fell from the branches, though as fair, juicy and toothsome as of old, each one was found to contain the well defined globule to be known thereafter as the "drop of blood."

If the conduct of Micah, his lapse from industry, thrift and contentment, into idleness and solitude, had bee discussed around many scattered fire-sides, the still more unaccountable behavior of the apple tree deepened the mystery. To a large degree the history of the different colonists was known to each other. What was there, they asked, in the monotonous common place record of this one to provoke the doom, already sounded in multiform warnings? His father, Thomas, had lived decorously and died in the faith. No ancestral curse visited upon the son vicarious punishment for the sins of the sire. Yet not only did the current judgement of the time pronounce the poor man accursed, but easily passed on to assert that the blight extended to the acres he tilled. Around the victim consumed by the fires of some hidden sin an occult power was throwing out signals of knowledge if not of wrath.

One circumstance, seemingly unimportant at the time of its occurrence, came into prominence a year later as offering the probable explanation of the secret. It was remember that the previous fall a pedlar of foreign aspect and vending wares too luxurious and costly for the lean purses of an outlying settlement, had called at several houses in West-Farms and passed a night at Micah Rood's. No one in the township had seen him afterwards. Then and there all trace of the stranger disappeared. Rising early the next morning he might have purshed on east or west, but if so his departure was unnoticed. Like countless other incidents this one would speedily have been swallowed up forever in the sea of oblivion, except that it marked a turning point in the fate of the host. When pursuit fairly started on the trail indicated by the coincidence, the public made up for lost time in the collection of facts. The apparent intervention of a supernatural power-the dissonant to the moral tone of the period.

The unusual mien of the pedlar made it the more easy to trace his steps from door to door. After comparing impressions the settlers quite generally concluded that he was a French emissary, sent to spy out the weakness of the infant colony. Traffic could hardly have been his object, for his wares were to unsuited to the market. A secret agent of an unfriendly power, starting on an extended circuit in the character of a trader, would, they argued, naturally take a stock at once attractive to win admission everywhere and stimulate talk, and also unsalable that the pack might travel a long way without need of replenishment. Having progressed thus far in the investigation, by a bold leap the public jumped to the conslusion that Micah, overpowered either by avarice, or perhaps by a freak of patriotic frenzy, had stabbed the pedlar in the orchard, and that the blood, absorbed by the roots of the overhanging tree, became reincarnate in flower and fruit. Thus both in seed time and harvest that silent but awful witness denounced the murdered for the deed.

We may imagine that stealthy visits were made to the orchard by persons intent on unearthing more substantial proofs of the crime. Early comers, however, found so seam in the sod to indicate that it had been broken for a grave. Cautiously as befitted the strange solemnity of the situation, but with an acuteness that suffered no fact which might throw light upon the case to escape attention, was the search pursued. Yet the inquest failed to disclose a trace of the missing man. The foreign finery which made up the stock of the pedlar had disappeared as completely as the owner. By not so much as a fragment of the well-remembered stuff was the abode of Micah garnished. Zeal unrewarded by discovery was exhausted in time from lack of aliment. After the inquiry, hushed but keen, had spent its force, the case remained precisely as at first. At the close as at the beginning the evidence was summed up in the manifestations of a troubled spirit and in a blood-mottled apple. If a load rested on the conscience of the wretched farmer, it forced no confession from his lips.

In time the suspicions of the neighborhood softened into sympathy. In sore need of sympathy did poor Micah stand, for his worldly affairs drifted from bad to worse as he sank ever deeper in the slough of poverty and dejection. Around the orchard the fence fell to decay, the unfilled barn tottered in the winds which swept through the valley, and the habitation grew more and more desolate. To listless to cultivate the soil, or possibly terrified by spectral fears while working in the fields alone, he assumed the care of the meeting-house in 1717, receiving as compensation a peck of corn yearly from each family in the society.

For ten years thereafter a curtain hides the sufferer from the view of posterity, but it is lifted to disclose the end. The records of the ecclesiastical society, still extant, contain these entries:

"July 5, 1727. The inhabitants do now, by their vote, agree to allow to each man that watches with Micah Rood, tow shillings per night; also to those who have attended sd Rood by day, three shillings per day."

"December 17, 1728. to Jacob Hyde for digging Micah Rood's grave, 4 s."

Such are the outlines of the story as told to persons still living by old people whose birth-date reached far back into the last century. Apparently they experienced no difficulty in accepting both the alleged facts and the implied philosophy. As then viewed the Seen and the Unseen, the Natural and the Supernatural, crossed each other in unaccountable ways. It did not seem unreasonable that Nature should thus overtly record her abhorrence of human crime.

"For murder, though it have no tongue, will speak, With most miraculous organ."

On the other hand, traditions involving the improbable fare roughly in the alembic of modern criticism. Reasoning from the university of invariable law, the iconoclast will say that a freak of nature was perverted to blast the life and blacken the memory of one who was probably little better or worse than the average of his neighbors-that in the confusion of sequences effect was confounded with cause. He will urge that the long-endured misery resulted less from the stings of avenging conscience than from the cruelty of unjust suspicions. Be that as it may, while the blood-spotted apple continues to grow, it will be linked with the name and fame of Micah Rood.

Sarah: (widow of Abraham Dayns)

Children:

18. i Mary Rood b. 22 May 1693, Norwich, New London, CT.

19. ii Micah Rood b. 29 Apr 1696, Norwich, New London, CT.

20. iii Joseph Rood b. 14 Dec 1698, Norwich, New London, CT.

5. Rachell Rood (1.Thomas¹) b. 6 Feb 1655, Norwich, New London, CT, m. (1) Jeremiah (Blaque) Blake, d. 1694, Lyme, CT, m. (2) abt 1696/97, George Smith, b. 1657, d. 1724. Rachell died 1718.

Children by Jeremiah (Blaque) Blake:

21. i Sarah Blake b. abt 1679, Prob Norwich, New London, CT, m. Henry Hodge, b. 19 Aug 1676, (son of John Hodge and Susannah Denslow) d. Voluntown, New London, CT. Sarah died bef 1770.

22. ii Jeremiah Blake b. abt 1681, Prob Norwich, New London, CT, m. Martha Willett, b. 1680, (daughter of James Willett and Grace Fink) d. 18 Feb 1748/49, Nihantick, CT. Jeremiah died bef 1725.

23. iii Thomas Blake b. abt 1685. (probably died young).

Children by George Smith:

24. iv George Smith m. 5 Jun 1720, in New London, New London Co, CT, Thankful Tomblin, d. 22 Mar 1749/50. George died 9 Jul 1738, New London, New London Co, CT.

25. v Matthew Smith b. abt 1699, m. 25 Feb 1719/20, Sarah Rogers, b. 13 May 1700, (daughter of James Rogers and Sarah Stevens).

6. John Rood (1.Thomas¹) b. Sep 1658, Norwich, New London, CT, m. 24 Jun 1687, in Preston, New London, CT, Mary Eddy, b. 14 Mar 1666/67, Taunton, Bristol, MA, (daughter of John Eddy and Susanna Paddock) d. 1706, Preston, New London, CT. John died 14 Apr 1705/06, Preston, New London, CT.

From The Rood/Rude Record:

The deed from Oenecho, Sachem (Chief) of the Mohigans, to John Rude also emphasizes that John Rude was the one who "did make ye first pitch" in this portion of the country (his land was laid out "next to his uncle Leffingwell's) and this is acknowledged by the chief in his deed. John was living in Preston in 1690, and continued to live there until his death. The land remained in his family for several generations. This particular copy of the deed was given to his grandson Nathan (4) son of John Rude Jr. (3) and thence was acquired by Noah Rude's descendants, now being the property of Mrs. Warren Coon, who graciously lend the document for copying so that the whole family might share. The signatures of the parties to the deed have been traced by the editor for reproduction in this magazine.

AN EARLY DEED FROM OENECHO TO JOHN RUDE

Observe Side:

Whereas I Oenecho Sachem of Mohegan Did Eight Years Since Sell until John Rude then of Norwich now of Preston two hundred Acres of Land Lying Eastward from Caleb Fobe's house, and ye sd John Rude before ye Land in these parts were Disposed of made his Pitch in ye aforesd Place, and then made good payment for and in Condiseration of the two hundred Acres of Land, I Do therefore aquit and Discharge ye Sd John Rude he his heirs or Assigns forever, from all D???? and Demands from me my heirs or Assigns forever, and in Condiseration of ye sd Land, and whereas he ye Sd John Rude Did Make ye first Pitch and Pitched in that place, and in that Righteousness ought to have the quantity bargained and paid for, and whereas if Each man would be contented with what is their Just Due there is enough and More than Enough: Know all whence it Doth Concern that I Oenecho aforesd Do by these Presents full freely and absolutely Grant Alienate Enfee--of Ratify and Confirm unto John Rude of Preston in ye County of New London, to him his heirs or Assigns for Ever, two hundred Acres of Land in ye abovesd place Butted and bounded, as followeth: Begining at a white oak tree Markt I R Standing a Little Distance from ye South End of Skunkhangenuck hill, and from thence Runing Northerly by ye Side of the hill one hundred and Sixty four Rods to a white oak Stadle, and from thence Northeasterly four Score rods to a brook and Runing by ye sd brook Sixty Eight Rods to a Stone pitched in the ground, and then Runing Easterly one Hundred and Sixty Eight Rods to a Stone, from Thence Runing Southwesterly forty three Rods to ye Northwest corner of ye Miners Land, and Runing by their Land one hundred and Ninety Six Rods, then Runing -- Southerly by ye Ministers Lot, Eighty four Rods to a Red Oak and from thence westerly fifty Six Rods to ye first Corner, I ye above sd Oenecho Do by these presents for my Self and heirs fully grant Ratify and Confirm ye abovesd two hundred Acres of Land, as bounded, unto John Rude to him his heirs and Assigns forever. To Have and to hold possess and for ever Improve to his and their proper use and profit, and that I by these Presents, oblige by Self to Defend this Sale against (this sale-crossed out) all Just Claims: As Witness My hand and Seal this 30th of August, Ano. Dom: one thousand Six hundred and Ninety.

this Deed Signed and Sealed In Presence of us Oenecho (his mark)

(Signature - John Egerton) Norwich February ye 16th 1690 (Signature - William Backus JW) Oenecho signed and Acknowledged this Deed Before Me.

(Signature - James Fitch) Assist.

Reverse Side: Nathan Rude's (crossed out) Coppy of Oenecho's deed to Mr. John Rude

This Deed Entred ye 9th of November 1719

pr me, Samll Storry Recordr

The above and within written is a true coppy of Record

Test/Samll Morgan Town Clerk of Preston

I Caleb Rude of (Litchfield-crossed out) Kent in ye County of Litchfield have Received of Nathan Rude of Preston the sum of fifty pounds Money which is the full of my father's estate porsion with what I have already Received I say Receive this sixteenth Day of February Anoqdomini 1753 Enterlined before signed the following words VIZ:

In presence of of my father's Estate

(signature - Daniel Gates) (signature - Caleb Rude) (signature - Joseph Rude)

(NOTE BY ROBERT ROOD BUELL - I have copied the above, line for line, showing the words crossed out by the copyist.)

Estate 4608 New London Probate District John Rood - Preston - 1706

An inventory of the Estate of John Roode of Preston Leatly Deceased f s The farm with the house & orchard and other improvements one at 160 00 4 cowes att 012 00 Sins this inventory was taken two of the fower cowes is dead 1 Hoss of three years old & one yearling 002 10 2 Maires and a two year old coalt 007 00 20 Sheep 007 00 4 Small Swine 001 00 3 new coverlids 002 00 (lost in fold) 000 10 a bead and three feathers pillows att 001 13 2 paire of sheets 001 00 1 Iron poot (torn) 1 frying Pan 000 05 2 small Basons 000 05 2 drinking cups 000 07 some other old Pewter att 000 05 Some wooden dishes and trayes 000 06 Some old casks att (torn) a new tubb at 4 shillings and pails 5 shillings (torn) chains and whopple tree chaines (torn) beetle rings & weadges 000 (torn) a claws and att 3s & three old hoaes 3s & fouer old axes 9s 000 15 an adds gouge chisel and nippers 5s 6d a hammer & som other old irons at 2s 6d 000 08 a frow and a Gunne 15s two pair of Plow Irons at 14s 001 09 a tailers goose att 2s 6d two syths with thayer & acklin att 10s 000 12.6 a chest and a box att 5s 3 old chaires 2s a small table 2s two bedsteds & coav'ds 000 18 0 Some new nailes att 6s: a saddle and bridle att 5s 00 11 0 an ould cart and wheels att 12s; a ring & graple 2s 6d Some lining yarne att 8s 01 02 6 a halfe bushel & Some woollin yarne and & auld Spade 00 04 0 two ould (lost in fold) riddles & a bible and som other books att 00 11 0 a trammell att 5 s the mans waring apparrill ( ) sheep sheares & drawing knife 02 02 0 2 Pitch forks and a hoaling axe 00 04 0 a fifty acre Lott in Preston 04 00 0

f s d Debts due from this Estate To Mr. Leffingwell 02 11 06 To Mr. Allyn 02 16 05 To Mr. Smith 03 00 00 To Robart Geere 01 03 09 To James Smith 00 10 00 More debt due to Mr. Samuel Bliss & the Dockter & Jean not come at ye (torn)

Recorded this 12th day of October 1706 in the 3d Book of Wills on fol. 74 Test/George Denison, Clerk

These are the names of the children and their ages

John Rood is 16 yeares of eage Zachariah Rood is 14 yeares of eage Jacob Roode is 11 yeares of eage Mary Rood is 9 yeares of eage Joseph is 6 yeares of eage mehitabell is 3 yeares of eage Noah Rood is 7 month old (lost in fold) that prized the Estate of John Rood, Deceased Thomas Rose Steeven Gate

Mary Rood widow and Relict of John Rood Late of Preston Deceased appeared in a Court of Probates held in New London Sept the 18th 1706 and made Oath that she gave in the apprizers a true acct of the Estate of her Deceased husband and according to the Cost of her knowledge, and if anything further appear to be his Estate that is Considerable she will add it to this inventory.

Test/George Denison, Clerk of Probate

The apprizers must figure the Inventories. The Widow must make oath that she hath made a true presentment of her Deceased husbands estate which may be done before any justice of the Quorum.

ABSTRACT OF BOND

Know all men by these presents that I Mary Rood of Preston together with my surtie Thomas Rose -- Do acknowledge our Selves Joyntly and severally to owe and stad Justly Indebted unto the Court of Probate in New London County the full and Must summ of one hundred pounds Current money........in New London the 18th day of September in the fifth year of her Majesties Reign anno Domini 1706.....

her Mary Rood mark Acknowledged in Court Sept 18th 1706 Test/George Denison, Clerk

Signed (Signature) Thomas Rose John Rood changed his name to Rude. We don't know why. Whether because of his father's humiliation or if he just spelled it wrong. Many of John's descendants carried on the Rude name.

From the notes of contributor Florence Cleaver:

In 1682 John purchased 200 acres from Oenecho, sachem of the Mohigans, and "did make ye first pitch" in this part of the country. John was living in Preston, Connecticut in 1690 and remained there until his death in Septemeber 1706. History of New London, Hurd, pg. 508, states that he left wife, Mary and six children. However, Thomas Rose, brother-in-law of John, included a list of seven children and their ages at the time of John's death, with the inventory of John's estate. This list: " These are the names of the children and theire eage" John Rood is 16 yeares of eage; Zachariah Rood is 14 yeares of eage; Jacob Roode is 11 yeares of eage; Mary Rood is 9 yeares of eage; Joseph Rood is 6 yeares of eage; Mehitabell is 3 yeares of eage; Noah Rood is 7 month old. [Florence's records also include from The Eddy Family in American, Ruth Story Devereux Eddy, A. B., A. M., 1930, pg 881-882]

From the notes of contributor Jane Wile:

Had a home-lot granted him in 1679, "on the other side of Showtucket river, near to his uncle Leffingwells's."

Children:

26. i John Rude Jr. b. 15 Nov 1688, Preston, New London, CT, m. 11 Sep 1714, in Preston, New London,CT, Mary Lester, (daughter of Timothy Lester and Unknown). (another source says birthdate 5 Nov 1688).

27. ii Zachariah Rude b. 1 Jul 1690, Preston, New London, CT, m. 21 Nov 1727, in Preston, New London, CT, Dorothy Downing, b. 1701, (daughter of John Downing and Unknown) d. 13 Nov 1754, Preston, New London, CT, buried: Preston City Cemetery, Preston, CT. Zachariah died 10 Feb 1795, Preston, New London, CT, buried: Preston Cemetery, Preston, CT.

From the notes of contributor Jane Wile:

Headstone inscription - "Here in the history of my age, Men who review my days, May read God's love in every page, in every line his praise."

28. iii Jacob Rude b. 18 Nov 1693, Preston, New London, CT, m. 2 Feb 1713/14, in Preston, New London, CT, Jemima Parke, 15 Jul 1694, Stonington, New London, CT, (daughter of Robert Parke and Mary Rose). Jacob died Abt 1741. (another source says birthdate 23 Feb 1713/14).

29. iv Mary Rude b. 15 Apr 1695, Preston, New London, CT, m. 27 Jun 1715, in Norwich, New London, CT, John Reynolds, 30 Jun 1689, Preston, New London, CT. Mary died 3 Apr 1741, Preston, New London, CT.

30. v Joseph Rude b. 15 Nov 1698, Preston, New London, CT, m. (1) 26 Feb 1722/23, in Stafford, Tolland,CT, divorced 1726, Experience Pease, b. 1700, Enfield, Hartford, CT, d. 1742, m. (2) 13 Nov 1742, in Preston, New London, CT, Deborah Parke, b. 10 Aug 1716, Preston, New London, CT, (daughter of James Parke and Deborah Geer) d. aft 1756. Joseph died 11 Mar 1756. (spelled his name both Rude and Rood).

31. vi Mehitabel Rude b. 1703, Preston, New London, CT, m. James Brayman, (son of Nathaniel Braman and Unknown).

32. vii Noah Rude b. 30 Oct 1704, Preston, New London, CT, m. Unknown. Noah died aft 1760, Mendham, NJ.

Notes by Mona Rood:

This connection of Noah Rood/Rude has not been documented. I have worked with many Rood/Rude family genealogist working on this line and there is much frustration that we have not been able to put all the pieces together with assurance that this is correct. Everyone has their own opinion and very little documentation of this line. The researchers who have contributed their family data has been documented up to a point and then there is much speculation. There has been so many different family records presented that I believe presenting the information although not documented may help someone in the future to perhaps fullfil what we have not been able to do. And that is to establish the correct connection. I know many of you prefer documented and proven genealogies, however, sometimes the information needs to be presented and "wham" before you know it someone has the piece of information we've been searching for and everything connects. So it is with anticipation that I present these records. The reader must be aware that the first two generations down from Noah Rood/Rude is my opinion at this time given the information presented to me.

Here is what Robert Rood Buell says about Noah. Noah is on back of his father's inventory in 1706, his uncle Thomas Rose wrote that Noah was 7 months old when his father died, evidently still living in 1706; we may presume the widow moved to NJ [where her son Joseph fled after divorce from Experience Pease].

From correspondence with Iva Arpin, 1998:

"I have a quick claim deed of Noah's dated 6 Jun 1726 when he sold his inheritance in Norwich. Next mention of him is 1742 in court in Morris City, NJ, 16 missing years. No wife in Norwich and none found in N.J., 1743 again in court in Morris City, 1749 his house mentioned in description of Mendham Township, 1753 in court in Morris City, 1773 Springhill Township, Westmoreland Cty, Pa tax list, 1790 U.S. Census of Menallen, Fay-Westmoreland Cty, Pa.

States children of Noah as Mary b. abt 1727 spouse David Lewis m. 1745 Morris Cty; Caleb b. abt 1727 spouse Ann Wade; Zelah b. abt 1740 Morris Cty; John b. abt 1744 and Jessie b. abt 1747 spouse Mary Ann Ashby. The fellow who did this work quotes Buell."

There are records of a Noah Rude in Pennsylvania and Ohio, however, it is my belief that the first Noah died in New Jersey. Although his children ventured far and wide, Virginia, Pennsylvania and Ohio. The Noah Rood/Rude on the 1773 Westmoreland Co, Pennsylvania tax list is probably a next generation Noah. With Noah born in 1704 he would be around 86 years old and I don't believe he was the Noah Rood/Rude in the 1790 census of Menallen Township, Fayette/Westmoreland County, Pennsylvania.

One thing that you can notice is that the name "NOAH" goes down through the generations of this lineage as does the name Jesse. Two very common names in this lineage.

8. Benjamin Rood (1.Thomas¹) b. Feb 1663, Norwich, New London, CT, m. 7 Jun 1690, in Norwich, New London, CT, Mary Williams.

In the 1702 census enumeration a Benjamin Rood was living in Plainfield, Windham County, Connecticut.

From the notes of Nancy Coleman:

Benjamin bought property in Canterbury in 1706 (Canterbury Land Records).

Children:

33. i Sarah Rood b. 1692, Norwich, New London, CT.

34. ii Abigail Rood b. 1695.

10. Samuel Rood (1.Thomas¹) b. Jun 1666, Norwich, New London, CT, m. 20 May 1690, in Norwich, New London, CT, Mary Mariner, b. 29 Jul 1664, Norwich, New London, CT, (daughter of Thomas Mariner and Unknown) d. 30 Dec 1715, Norwich, New London, CT. Samuel died 1742, Norwich, New London, CT.

From the notes of contributor Jane Wile:

In 1687 his residence was "below Showtuckett Falls"

From the notes of contributor Ralph Kleymeyer:

He would not have known his mother, and he was only six when his father died. I don't know who raised the children. Perhaps the older siblings. Samuel married at Norwich, 20 May 1690, daughter of Thomas Mariner. I am somewhat surprised that Samuel stayed in Norwich as an adult, but apparently he did. Perhaps he did move at some point, as I have no record of his death.

Mary:

From The Rood/Rude Record, Vol II, page 49:

Who was Mary (Mariner) Rood, Wife of Samuel-2?

From time to time we have speculated on the descent of Mary Marriner, wife of Samuel-2 Rood of Simsbury, Norwich, and later Canaan, Conn. Now there comes to light an undocumented fact from Mrs. Hopee Rood Barry of Asheville, North Carolina, provided her by a genealogist who claims to have found in the Newberry library, Chicago, Illinois, the information that she was Mary-2 Marriner, daughter of Professor James Marriner, an emigrant to New London, Conn.

Your editor [Robert Rood Buell] has done some preliminary skirmishing with this information, but to date he has not been able to affirm or deny it. In fact, he cannot, to date, find any such James Marriner, professor or otherwise, in the New London area.

In the records of Salem, Mass. we find that Capt. Richard Mariner sold his home on the "first month 29th day 1652" [29 March 1652] but there is no further record of him. Another Mariner was evidently about this time "of Newfoundland" and sold fish, etc. in the Massachusetts Bay colony.

Then (according to Underhill "Descendants of Edward Small" Revised Edition, Vol. III) we find in Dover, New Hampshire, in 1681 an Andrew Mariner. Perhaps he is the same Andrew Mariner (signing himself Andre Marine) who on 10 Nov 1684 was in Boston "a shoemaker from New London at George Cables's." He bought land shortly in Boston and the next year (1685) his first of five children are recorded in Boston birth records, so Boston was evidently his home for awhile. Land purchased and sales are recorded there for him. But note that, if the two Andrew Mariners (of Dover and of Boston) are the same man, he lived, say 1681-1684, in New London, Conn., which is about 40 miles from Norwich where Mary Mariner mar. 1690 Samuel-2 Rood. Andrew was evidently connected with the Huguenot Colony in Boston because Francis Barers and Benjamin Fanieul witnessed one deed. He later moved to New York as Underhill shows.

Here, then, are apparently, two Mariners in Connecticut 1680-1690 since Andrew m. (say 1685 or 1684?) and moved to Boston, and Mary who mar. 1690 in Norwich. Were they two children of a father, not yet discovered, presumably Andrew the elder? Or were they father and daughter, with this Boston family being a second family for Andrew? Is there any similarity in names given children? Alas, no, Andrew's family in Boston were named (in order of birth) Margaret, Ruth, Priscilla, and twins Andrew and George. Mary (Mariner) Rood named hers: Samuel, Mary, Abigail, Mercy (Rood names) and Elizabeth, Jabez, Job and Mariner (not previously used as Rood names). The problem is still with us: who was Mary Mariner?

(Note: by Mona Rood) Ralph KLeymeyer has given me Thomas Mariner as the father of Mary. He does not show a source.

Children:

35. i Samuel Rood Jr. b. 20 Mar 1691, Norwich, New London, CT, m. 4 May 1715, in Norwich, New London, CT, Mary Lambert, b. abt 1695, (daughter of Gersham Lambert and Deborah Frink). Samuel died 30 Mar 1778, Norwich, New London, CT.

From The Rood/Rude Record, Vol III/IV, page 87-88:

Samuel-3, son of Samuel-2 and Mary (Mariner) Rood was born 20 Mch 1691 Lisbon, nr. Norwich, Conn., and died there early in 1738. The administrator's bond to his only son Benajah-4 is shown below, together with the inventory of his estate. The signature traced from the orginal documents may be of interest to descendants. The originals are to be found in New London Probate Dist. File #4646, now at Connecticut State Library, Hartford, Conn. (The "f" for long "s" is used throughout. RRB)

Administrator's Bond:

Know all men by thefe prefents that wee Benajah Rude and John Bishop of Nowich in the County of New London in his Majesties Colony of Connecticut in New England are Holden and Stand firmly Bound and obliged unto Jofhua Hempftead Efq. Judge of the Court of Probate in the Diftrict of New London in the Sun of Two Hundred Pounds Current Money of Ye Colony aforesd to be paid to the Sd Jofhua Hempftead Esq. and as his Certain Attorney Successfors or asfigns, to the which payment well and truely to be made wee bind our Selves & Each of us our heirs Executors & Administrators Joyntly & Severally for the whole and in the whole firmly by these prefents Sealed with our Seals Dated in Norwich in the County Aforefd the 30th Day of March in the 11th year of his Mejefties Reign Anno Dom 1738.

The Condition of the above obligation is Such that if the above Bounden Benajah Rude Adminiftrator of all & Singular the Goods Rights & Credits of Samuel Rude Junior, Late of Norwich Dec'd do make or Caufe to be made a true & perfect Inventory of all the Eftate of the aforesd Samuel Rude Junr which Shall Come to the hands Posfesfion or Kowledge of the aforefd Benajah Rude or into the hands of any other perfson or perfons for him. & the Same do Exhi(worn away here RRB) it or Caufe to be Exhibited into the Registry of the Court of Probate in the County of New Lon(worn away)don att on or before the Second Tuesday in April Next Ensuing & the Same goods Chattels & Credits and all other the good Chattels & Credits of the Sd Decd at the time of his death such at any time after Shall come into ye hands or possession of the Sd Benajah Rude or into the hands of any other person for him, do well and Truely Adminifter according to Law, and further do make or Cause to be made a true & Juft ascot of his Sd Adminiftration at or before the Second Tuesday of April (blot) in the year of our Lord 1739 and all the Rest & Refidue of the Sd goods Chattels & Credits which Shall be found Remaining upon ye the Sd Adminiftrators Accot the Same being first Examined & allowed of by the Sd Court of Probates, Shall Deliver and pay unto Such person or perfons Refpectively as the Sd Court of Probates by their Decree or (illegible) purfuant to the true intent & Meaning of Ye act Shall Limit & appoint & if it Shall hereafter appear that any Laft will & Testament was made by the Sd Decd & the Executor or Executors therein named Do Exhibit ye Same unto the Sd Court making Requeft to hve it allowed & approved of and the same being Approved of Accordingly if the Sd Benajah Rude will (be) Bounden to deliver ufs the Sd Letters of Adminiftration in the Sd Court then the above Olibgation to be Null & Void or Elfe to Remain in full force & vertue.

Signed Sealed and Acknowledged before a Court of Probates held in Norwich the 30th Day of March 1738.

Teft: J: Hemsted Judge of Prob. (Baniah Rude) Signature (Seal)

(John Bishop) Signature (Seal)

With the preceding document (which is all on one page as shown, line for line) are filed to other documents, (a) the request of widow for administration to be granted her son Benajah, and (b) the inventory of the estate. These follow as line for line transcripts:

To Jofhua Hemftead Esr. Judge of the Probate for Ye County of New London Honourable Sir:- These may Certifie that I ye Subfscriber Mary Rude Relict of Samuel Rude of Norwich for Several (crossed out) Reafons Do Altogether Decline taking a Letter of Adminiftration upon My Sd Husbands Eftate and Do Defire that it may be granted to my Son Benajah Rude ye bearer hearof In hopes thereof I Subscribe by Hand

Her

Mary Rude

Mark

(Editor's Note: She was born Mary Lambert, for which the L probably stands. She undoubtedly was so taught in childhood.RRB).

Norwich March 29th 1738 Then Mary Rude Signed & Delivered Ye Above Written to her Son Benajah Above Named To be by him Delivered to ye Judge of Probate for ye County of New London In presence of:

Daniel Kirtland John Bishop

An Inuentory of the Estate of Samuel Rude Junr Late of Norwich d'd-----IMPRIMAS

to his Land in Norwich Laying on the East Side of Wequonack littel f s d (?Rever) Sixty two acres f 232, 10s 0 232 10 0

to one iron pot 0-17-4 0 17 4

to a draft Chain f1-0-0 1 00 0

to an oald pot 3s 0 03 0

to a Cover Leed ----s10 0 10 0

to oald frying pan 0 01 0

to an old chair 0 01 0

to 8 pound of old Iron 4 0 04 0

to a Puter Bason 2s 6d 0 02 6

to 2 puter plates 5 0 05 0

to a Box 1s 0 01 0

to a tray 0 01 6 __________________ f 232 16 4 Added before by us 4 5 0 __________________

f 240 1 4

Norwich March the 3-1738 the above Ritten is a true Inuentory taken by us Under oath (signature) Samuel Bishop (signature) Jabez Perkins Junr

Ad adition of F4 5s Od money by us the Subscribers Benajah Rude Administrator of the Estate of Mr. Samll Rude Junr Late of Norwich Dec'd appeared before a Court of Probates Held in Norwich March ye 30th 1738 and Made Oath that he hath made a true presentment of the Estate of the Dec'd Samll Rude Junr to the Apprizers & if any thing more hereafter appear to be his Estate that is Considerable he will cause it to be added to this inventory.

Test/J. Hempsted Judge of Probts

36. ii Elizabeth Rood b. 31 Dec 1692, Norwich, New London, CT, d. 1692, Norwich, New London, CT.

37. iii Jabez Rood b. 7 Feb 1693/94, Norwich, New London, CT, m. (1) abt 1716, Mehitable Standish, b. abt 1693, probably Preston, CT, (daughter of Josiah Sandish Jr. and Sarah Allen) d. 1741/43, m. (2) Mindwell Allis. Jabez died 17 May 1760, Lebanon, New London, CT.

From The Rood/Rude Record, page 34:

In 1718 he was "of Lisbon" (Hurd, "New London") and in 1737/38 he was in Lebanon as evidenced by Land Records (V. 420 in Kingsley's Rec. Lib. p. 273) "I, John Huntington of Lebanon and Jabez Rude, late of Norwich, now residing in Lebanon...." He made his will (filed in Conn. State Lib. Probate Rec. File #3299 for Lebanon in Windham District which contains 1 will, 1 inventory, and 8 receipts from heirs) on 29 March 1758, which was proved 22 May 1760, and which provides for wife Mindwell (his second wife; see below), sons Josiah, Rufus and Jeremiah, and daughters Lydia and Eunice.

His first marriage (date not found) is listed in the "Mayflower Index" (see also Virkus, "Compendium etc." Vol. IV; History of Royalton, Vt.) to Mehitabell Standish. She was the daughter of Josiah-3 Standish by his wife Sarah, he the son of Josiah-2 Standish and Mary Dinglay, he the son of Capt. Myles Standish of Plymouth. She has been accepted by the Society of Mayflower Descendants as the mother of all Jabez's children. She was admitted to the First Church in Norwich in 1722 (Ch. Recs. II 207, IV 206) and in 1724 was admitted at the Newent Congregational, Lisbon. Neither her death record nor her tombstone has been found, but she probably died about 1741 to 1743 based on data derived from studying dates connected with the second wife, Mindwell.

His second wife's data are also missing, but we know from his will that she survived him, and the Enfield Vital Records show that she married 24 March 1762, John Kibbe of Enfield (Cf. Boston Transcript Answer #3404 for 25 Oct 1945,etc.) We also find in Lebanon First Church records that Mindwell Rude from Bolton was admitted 24 Apr 1743, which probably occurred shortly after her marriage.

38. iv Job Rood b. Apr 1696, Norwich, New London, CT.

39. v Elizabeth Rood b. Sep 1700, Norwich, New London, CT, m. 1738, James (Dean) Deenz, b. 19 Mar 1698, Stonington Twp, New London, CT. James:

(Another source shows the name of James as Daynes, James Daynes. I think there is much confusion as to who this guy really was.)

40. vi Mary Rood b. 7 May 1703, Norwich, New London, CT, m. 6 Jul 1724, in Norwich, New London, CT, Samuel Parish, b. 12 Oct 1700, Ipswich, Essex, MA, (son of Samuel Parish Sr and Marcy Madiver) d. 1735, Canterbury, Windham, CT. Mary died 8 May 1755, Canterbury, Windham, CT. Samuel:

From the notes of contributor Nancy Coleman:

From Genealogies of Connecticutt Families, Vol II, page 18, (1983)

"Samuel Parish was born in Chebacco Parish, Ipswich, Mass., 12 Oct. 1700." Another source states Stonington or Norwich.

41. vii Abigail Rood b. 30 Mar 1705, Norwich, New London, CT, m. 10 Feb 1726/27, in Woodstock, Windham, CT, Alexander Mackay, b. abt 1705, Woodstock, Windham, CT.

42. viii Mercy Rood b. May 1709, Norwich, New London, CT, m. 29 Jan 1735/6, in Canterbury, Windham, CT, Benjamin Parish.

43. ix Mariner Rood b. 12 Aug 1712, Norwich, North London, CT, m. 18 Jul 1744, in Falls Village, Litchfield, CT, Mary Cornish, b. abt 1713, Simsbury, Hartford, CT, (daughter of Deacon James Cornish and Hannah Humphrey Hilliard) d. 12 Feb 1800. Mariner died 7 Apr 1777, Canaan, Litchfield, CT.

11. George Rood (1.Thomas¹) b. Jul 1672, Norwich, New London, CT, m. Jul 1702, in Norwich, New London, CT, Hannah Bush, b. abt 1682, Cambridge, Middlesex Co., MA, (daughter of Reynold Bush and Susannah (Lovell) Lovett) d. 1 Jan 1743/44, Norwich, New London, CT. George died 10 Mar 1744, Norwich, New London, CT.

From the notes of contributor Albert Graham Roode:

George Rood, youngest son of Thomas Rood and Sarah Rood (his daughter) was born just before his father's death, was taken by his mother (Sarah Rood, the daughter) in 1673 to New London. Here he grew up and married.

George Rood was baptized (an adult) 3 Jun 1709 in the Newent-Lisbon Church. It is presumed that he was a farmer. They lived in Norwich, later removed to Lisbon where they lived and died.

From The Ancestors and Descendants of Moses Jackson Rood and Ann Janette Burdick, 1995:

From the Norwich Land Grants we find: Land belonging unto George Rood of Norwich his heirs and assignes.

Imprie--ffifteen acres more or less lying on the South side of the great plaine beginning att the crotch of the brooks abutting on Tradeing Cove brook Southerly fifty two rodds to a small Gutter, abutting on land of Liut. Leffingwell. South easterly Sixty eight rodds abutting Eastwardly on New London Road Twenty rodds abutting Northerly on Land of Daniell Tracy one hundred and one rodds to the first Station ordered and Delivered to him by Liut Thomas Leffingwell, as his portion of his fathers estate. Entered July 12th, 1968.------------------------

2d ite--Ten acres on Middle hill more or less bounded Southerly on land of Benjamine Peck one hundred and eight rodds and westerly on land of Micah Rood thirteen rodds, and Northerly on Micah Roods land one hundred and eight rodds and easterly on land of Micah Rood thirteen rodds part of his fathers third division lot and ordered to him by the Administrators-Entred April 10th, 1703

Ite-Twenty three acres adjoining to this farm abutting Northerly on Land of Simon Huntington & Comons eighty eight rodds, & Southwesterly on his own land one hundred & eight rodds, and Northwest on his own land Thirty two rodds and Southerly on land of Thomas Leffingwell thirty one rodds Thence abutting easterly on ye highway ninety rodds----------------------------------------Entred ye 18th of novembr 1713.

In 1713/14, his portion of his father's estate was again recorded at Norwich; he received "five pounds to say the hither lot at ye great plaine."

In May of 1718, a petition to establish a new society or town was presented to the colonial legislature. This petition was signed by 27 persons including George Rood, Samuel Rood and Jabesh Rood. The society was established in 1718 as a result of this petition as the Norwich North East Society by division of the Norwich First Society. Its' name was subsequently changed in Oct. of 1722 to the Newent Society.

On Dec. 7, 1718, George Rood's first six children were baptized in the 1st Congregational Church of Norwich.

From the notes of contributor Mabry Benson:

Land: 4 May 1730. George Rood of Norwich for f6 s5 sell to Samuel Bishop land of the west side of Little River 2 ac. Norwich, Conn., Deed Book 6, page 162.

14 Mar 1731/2, George Rood of Norwich in consideration of the security given by my son Ebenezer Rood for my more comfortable maintenance during my natural life, and the maintenance of my wife Hannah, my land where I now dwell, lying on the westerly side of Woquanock Little River, about 40 ac, being the land purchased from David Knight 14 Feb 1715/16, except what I have already conveyed to my said son 15 Apr 1726, Norwich, Conn, Deed Book 6, page 411.

14 Mar 1731/2, George Rood of Norwich in consideration of the security for my comfortable maintenance given by my son Ebenezer Rood grant all my movable estate of all sorts, all my cattle, horses, and all my husbrandry utencils and house hold stuff of all sorts. Norwich, Conn, Deed Book 6, page 412.

From the notes of contributor Janet Pease:

2B: 852 David KNIGHT of Norwich for 46a in Norwich adj the Wequanuck plaines from George ROOD, my 70 a lying on the west side of the Wequanuck little river and is port of the land I bought of Thomas HALL 14 Feb 1715/6 wit: Richard & Elizabeth BUSHNELL

Norwich deeds: George ROOD of Norwich for 1 cow and calf from Isaac HUNTINGTON of Norwich- undivided lands in Norwich. 2 Sept 1717. George signs (X). wit: Nathaniel Dean. Jonathan Dean. ack. 2 Sep 1717. 3A:20

4:369 George ROOD of Norwich for the love I have for my son Ebenezer ROOD of Norwich-all my 29a of land being part of the farm on which I now live, on the north side of it....bordering east on a little river...to the lower end of a small island. 22? Apr 1726. George (X) ROOD. wit: Richard & Elizabeth BUSHNELL. ack 25 Apr 1726 by George ROOD.

0:68 land belonging to George ROOD of Norwich-15a lying on the south side of the Great Plain beginning at the crotch of the brooks abutting on Tradeing Cove brook....abutting on the land of Liv's LEFFINGWELL....abutting east on the New London Road, abutting north on the land of Daniel Tracy, ordered and delivered to him by Liv't Thomas LEFFINGWELL as his portion of his father's estate. entered 12 Jul 1609.

1:304 George ROOD of Norwich for 4 lbs from David NIGHT of Norwich- 1/2 of my 40a grant of land made to him by the town of Norwich. 28 Apr 1707 wit: William HIDE, John LEFFINGWELL (X)

2:313 George ROOD of Norwich for 3 lbs from Simon TRACY of Norwich-3a of meadow on the west side of the Littell River called Wequanuck little river bounding south on Solomon TRACY. (X) Richard and Elizabeth BUSHNELL.

2B:539 George ROOD of Norwich, planter for 22a lying on the Wequanuck plaines and 3a of meadow lying on the west side of Wequanuck little river by Daniel TRACY of Norwich, yeoman-all my 15a being in the Great Plaine...abutting on Tradeing Cove brook, abutting on the land of Liu't LEFFINGWELL, abutting east on the New London Road and north on the land of Daniel TRACY, + all my 10a grant of woodland yet to be laid out. 15 Feb 1702/3 (X) wit: Simon Tracy, Elizabeth BUSHNELL.

2B:551 George ROOD of Norwich for 2 lbs from Benjamin PECK of Norwich 10a lying on Middle Hill bounding south on the land of Benjamin PECK, bounding west on the land of Micah ROOD...north and east on Micah ROOD. 10 Ape 1703 (X) wit: Elizabeth & Ann BUSHNELL ack 18 Feb 1712/13 at Norwich by George Rood recorded again in 2B:808

2B:643 George ROOD of Norwich for a consideration from Benajah BUSHNELL of Norwich-all my grant of land from the town of Norwich to answer my 1st rate paid toward the building of a new meeting house. 18 Feb 1712/13 (X) wit: Rich'd & Elizabeth BUSHNELL ack 18 Feb 1712/13 at Norwich by George ROOD recorded again in 2B:808

2B:851 George ROOD of Norwich for a consideration of 70a by the little river in Norwich by David NIGHT of Norwich-all my 45a of land adj. the Wequanuck plaine in Norwich, 22a there of which I purchased of Daniel TRACY which was laid out in 2 parcels and 23a which was granted to me by the town, both parcels adj. each other...with my dwelling house and fence and fruit trees. 14 Feb 1715/16 (X) wit: Richard & Elizabeth BUSHNELL ack 14 Feb 1715/16 at Norwich by George ROOD

Hannah:

From the notes of contributor Hope Harvey:

George Rood's wife was the participant in another messy court dealing in Oct. 1702 and later in 1703 when it was proved she was with child by her step-father while married to George.

Children:

44. i Ebenezer Rood Sr b. 21 Feb 1704/05, Norwich, New London, CT, m. 9 May 1726, in Canterbury, Windham, CT, Mary Green, b. 18 Jul 1701, Canterbury, Windham, CT, (daughter of Robert Green and Ruth Backus) d. 23 Nov 1786. Ebenezer died 20 Dec 1785, Canterbury, Windham, CT.

From the note of contributor Mabry Benson:

14 Apr 1734, Ebenezer Rood of Norwich for one half of a sawmill sell to Joseph Wood one half of my 2.5 acres lying on the west side of Little River to the eastward of the sd Rood dwelling house Norwich, Conn, Deed Book 7, page 253.

Land: 15 Apr 1734. Ebenezer Rood of Norwich in consideration of one half of a sawmill to ? secured to be delivered before the executing of these presents by Joseph Woods, sells to Joseph woods one half of my 2.5 acres in Norwich on the west side of Little River to the east of Roods dwelling house. Norwich, Conn, Deed Book 6, page 253.

30 Jun 1741. Ebenezer Rood of Norwich for f5 sells to Isaac Tracy my one right in the last division of land among the proprietors of Norwich, which division was completed in March 1740, together with my right in the common or undivided land in Norwich whereof I am a proprietor. Norwich, Conn, Deed Book 8, pg 454.

25 Dec 1741. Ebenezer Rood sells for f5 to Thoms Betts, the one half of two acres and half on the west side of Little River and eastward of my dwelling house. Norwich, Conn, Deed Book 9, page 249.

9 Feb 1751. Ebenezer Rude of Norwich in consideration for the love, good will and fatherly affection that I have and do bear to my well beloved and dutiful son Ebenezer Rude give land 30 ac Norwich, Conn, Deed Book 13, page 518.

Jan 1759. Ebenezer Rude Senior for f6 s10 sell to Ebenezer Rood Jun 3.5 and 30 rods of land in Norwich lying Westerly of Roods dwelling house. Norwich, Conn, Deed Book 13, page 519.

2 Apr 1759. Mathew Perkins sells for f13 to Ebenezer Rood 7 ac and 60 rods in Newent Society in Norwich lying W of Roods dwelling house. Nowich, Conn, Deed Book 13, page 520.

15 Apr 1773. Ebenezer Rude of Norwich for f3 sell to Ezekiel Perigo land in Hanover in Norwich. Norwich, Conn, Deed Book 22, page 76.

3 Apr 1778. Ebenezer Rude of Norwich for 5 shillings sell to William Perigo land in Norwich lying at the Northeast corner of my land on the west side of a highway which leads from Norwich to Windham. Norwich, Conn, Deed Book 23, page 104.

From the notes of contributor Hope Harvey:

Then along comes Ebenezeer who married Mary Green. Mary had him arrested for abusing her and threatening to kill her and by killing her son before he was born. This court session was in August 1741.

45. ii Isaac Rood b. 26 Mar 1706/07, Norwich, New London, CT, m. Abigail ?. Isaac died 1 Mar 1792, Sturbridge, Worcester, MA. (not sure this is correct Isaac Rood for this death date. Will leave until more can be learned).

46. iii Solomon Rood b. Abt 1709/10, Norwich, New London, CT, occupation Weaver, m. 27 Apr 1733, in Norwich, New London, CT, Sarah Davis, (daughter of Simon Davis and Mary Wood). Solomon died 31 Oct 1756, Lake George, Warren Co.,NY, French & Indian War.

From The Ancestors & Descendants of Moses Jackson Rood and Ann Janette Burdick, 1995:

In August of 1736, Solomon Rood bought one 50 acre lot in New Medfield (Sturbridge), Mass. from Henry Pudney for a consideration of f22. He was at that time from Tomson Parish, Killingly, Conn. and was a weaver. On Jan. 30, 1737/38 he bought 90 acres in New Medfield from Seth Wright for a consideration of f35. From "A Historical Sketch of Sturbridge and Southbridge," by Geo. Davis, Solomon occupied the settlement (house and land) of Elias Carpenter on or near Shumway Hill.

In 1755, according to the Brookfield History, Solomon Rood went to Crown Point on Lake Champlain to fight the French in the French & Indian War. The Sturbridge Vital Records state that Solomon died Oct. 31, 1756 "at Lake George." He must therefore have died in battle or as a result of his action in this war.

The worcester County Probate Records (#51170) contain seven documents dated from March 1757 through April 1763 which pertain to the administration of Solomon Rood's estate. He died intestate and the administration of his estate was accomplished by his eldest son Solomon after his wife Sarah declined. The inventory of his estate was taken March 21, 1757 and was probated March 29, 1757. The total of his estate was f53.18.4.

A photostat of the handwritten inventory of Solomon Rood's inventory, found in the Worcester County Probate Records, Series A Case 51170 reads as follows: On the cover..."The things or house ____giuen to Sarah Beals is a value at 8-7-2."

The inventory itself reads:

Sturbridge March 21, 1757

By virture of a warrant to us directed requireng us to take an Inuentory of the Estate of Solomon Rhood of Sturbridge Desceased in Obediance thereto we have don as follows.

Cart & Wheals 3 0 0 flax 1 1 9 2 Plows 0 16 0 Salt Pork 2 13 9 a Brake 0 2 0 Wheat 0 2 8 a Draft Chain 0 6 0 Woolen yearn & wool 0 12 0 Hors Chain & Seals 0 7 6 Beads & Beading 6 11 2 yoak irons 0 2 0 wearing Close 0 8 8 old Iron 0 15 0 Books 0 4 0 2 gimblets 6 Box iron 0 1 7 2 cows 9 2 0 Tobacer 0 3 2 a yearling Calf 0 13 4 Hogs fate 0 3 0 Lambs___________ 2 12 10 a Syckel 0 1 0 a gun 0 12 0 a Belt 0 0 8 9 Swine 1 16 0 Receipt of Doct a Pitch fork 0 1 6 upham 17 8 8 a Bras Citel 1 6 9 5 Trays 0 5 0 2 Tables 0 2 0 wood dishes 0 1 6 woodn Plates 0 1 7 a Pale & Pigen 0 1 6 Pewter 0 8 0 a glas botle 0 0 9 2 Chist 0 16 0 Chairs 0 2 0 a net 0 7 0 a Pot & two Citels 0 2 8 Spining whels 0 10 8 old tubs 0 2 8 a Bear Cask 0 1 9 s Bepterornote (?) 0 12 0 a swarm of bees 0 12 0 Reg 2 8 0 malt 0 6 0 Beans 0 6 0 Indian Corn 2 5 0 a knoed troft 0 3 0 and baskit

Nathll Walker Seth Twichell John Marcy Warranty March 29, 1757 Solomon Rood Adm formally appearing made oath that this a true inventoy of the Estate of his late father Solomon Rood Dec. ____________hath come to his knowledge & that if anything more that appear he will add the same. Sworn before John Chandler _____

From the notes of contributor Albert Graham Roode:

He was among the proprietors in the 1729 petition to the Massachusetts Bay Colony and 1730-1735 settlement of 10,000 Acre Provincial Land Grant incorporating the town of New Medford (now Sturbridge, Mass.) and the committee signing the 29 Sep. 1736 New Medford Church Covenant---First Congregational Church, Sturbridge, Mass.

Having complied with the conditions--General Court--established within seven years--fifty families and having "an house of 18 feet square,....at least"---their petition for incorporation and prayer was granted 24 Jun 1738--the new town was named Sturbridge (Hist. First Cong'l Ch. Sturbridge. George H. Haynes).

Solomon Rood removed from Norwich, Conn. probably in 1754 to Amherst, Mass..Tradition indicates he died prior to 1772-probably at Lake George, N.Y. 1756 in military service against the Indians. Tradition of his death by scalping is to be found in records of certain of his descendants. His burial, while not known, is likely in the Lake George, N.Y. area.

47. iv Hannah Rood b. 16 Jul 1712, Norwich, New London, CT, d. 7 Jul 1727.

48. v Simeon Rood b. 16 Aug 1714, Norwich, New London, CT, d. Jul 1727, Norwich, New London, CT.

49. vi Keziah Rood b. Dec 1716, Norwich, New London, CT, m. 24 Jul 1739, in Norwich, New London, CT, Aaron Chapman, b. 12 Jul 1718, Norwich, New London, CT, (son of Joseph Chapman and Mercy Wentworth). Keziah died 1739.

50. vii Experience Rood b. 20 Jan 1719/20, Norwich, New London, CT, m. 1742, John Ferris.

51. viii Thankfull Rood b. 2 Feb 1721/22, Norwich, New London, CT, m. (1) 24 Dec 1745, Benjamine Kinney, m. (2) 20 Jan 1756, in Norwich, New London, CT, John Nichols, d. 1745. Thankfull died 20 Jan 1756.

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