Jonathan Fairbanks facts for kids
Jonathan Fairbanks (born 1594, died December 5, 1668) was an English settler who came to America. He was born in a place called Heptonstall, Halifax, in England. In 1633, he moved to New England. Around 1641, Jonathan Fairbanks built the famous Fairbanks House in Dedham, Massachusetts. This house is special because it's the oldest wooden house in North America that is still standing today.
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Fairbanks Family History
Jonathan Fairbanks married Grace Smith on May 20, 1617, in Halifax, England. They had six children together.
To celebrate their 400th wedding anniversary, the Fairbanks Family in America group offered special events. On May 20, 2017, visitors could get half-price admission to the Fairbanks House. They also enjoyed wedding cake and popcorn!
Life in New England
Jonathan Fairbanks and his family arrived in Boston, Massachusetts Bay Colony, in 1633. They lived in Boston for about three years. Then, they moved to Dedham, Massachusetts, becoming one of the first families to settle there.
The family bought 12 acres of land. In 1641, skilled carpenters started building their home. Jonathan Fairbanks was one of the people who signed the agreement when Dedham was officially founded and named. He also served as a "selectman" for one term in 1658. A selectman was like a town leader who helped make decisions for the community.
Joining the Church
Jonathan Fairbanks had some questions about publicly sharing his faith and joining the church. However, after many friendly talks, he decided to join. In 1646, he openly declared his faith and his commitment to God. The church members were happy to welcome him.
Fairbanks became a member of the First Church in Dedham. This church followed a type of Christian belief called Reformed theology during the 1600s.
Later Life and Legacy
Jonathan Fairbanks passed away in Dedham on December 5, 1668. Grace Fairbanks, his wife, died a few years later. Jonathan Fairbanks was buried in the Old Village Cemetery in Dedham.
During his lifetime, Jonathan spelled his last name in several ways. These included Fairbanke, Fairebanke, Fayerbanke, and Fairbanck. However, his sons and grandsons started using the spellings Fairbank or Fairbanks. The spelling "Fairbanks" has continued for 15 generations of his family.
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