James Avery (American colonist) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
James Avery
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Bust of James Avery
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| Born | 1620 |
| Died | April 18, 1700 (aged 79–80) |
| Spouse(s) | Joanna Greenslade (1622—1697) |
James Avery (born 1620, died April 18, 1700) was an important person in early American history. He owned land, helped make laws, and was a military leader during a big conflict called King Philip's War. He lived in the American colonies when they were still new.
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Early Life in the Colonies
James Avery was born in Cornwall, England. When he was a child, he moved with his parents to the Massachusetts Bay Colony in America. This was a long time ago, before the United States was a country.
As James grew up, he received land in an area that is now New London, Connecticut. These "land grants" meant the government gave him ownership of the land.
A Pioneer in Connecticut
James Avery was one of the first people to settle in Stonington, Connecticut. A place called Avery Point is named after him.
There is a special monument in Groton, Connecticut, where his home once stood. His house, built in 1656, was known as The Hive of the Averys. Sadly, the house burned down in 1894 from a spark from a passing train.
Serving in Government
James Avery was involved in the government of the Connecticut Colony. He was chosen 12 times to be a "Deputy" to the General Court. This means he helped make laws for the colony between 1656 and 1680.
He also served for 20 years as a "town selectman." A selectman was a local leader who helped manage the town's daily business.
Military Leadership
James Avery was a captain in the colonial militia, which was like a local army. He played a role in King Philip's War, a major conflict between the colonists and Native American tribes.
In a battle called the Great Swamp Fight on December 19, 1675, Captain Avery led a group of Native American allies. These allies were from the Pequot tribe.
In 1676, Captain Avery commanded 40 English soldiers from towns like Stonington, Lyme, and New London. He also led one of four companies that protected the "frontier," which was the edge of the settled colonial lands.
Famous Descendants
James Avery has many thousands of people alive today who are his descendants. Some well-known people who are related to him include:
- John D. Rockefeller, a famous businessman.
- Nelson Rockefeller, who was a governor and Vice President of the United States.
- Senator Jay Rockefeller.
- Roger Avary, an Academy Award-winning writer and director.
