William Wadsworth (patriarch) facts for kids

William Wadsworth (born February 26, 1594, likely in Long Buckby, England – died October 15, 1675 in Hartford, Connecticut) was an important early pioneer in New England. He was one of the people who helped start the town of Hartford, Connecticut. William Wadsworth is also the ancestor of many well-known families in North America, including the famous poet Ezra Pound.

William's Early Life

It has been a challenge for historians to find out exactly where William Wadsworth came from. Recent studies suggest he was born in Long Buckby, England, in 1594. He was baptized on February 26, 1594. His parents were likely William and Elizabeth Wadsworth. While this isn't 100% proven, his age and the places mentioned strongly suggest this connection.

Journey to New England

William Wadsworth's name is at the top of a list of people who took an "Oath of Allegiance" on June 22, 1632. This oath meant they promised loyalty to the King and wanted to travel to New England.

He was also listed as one of 123 passengers on a ship called the Lion. This ship arrived in Boston Harbor, Massachusetts Colony on Sunday, September 16, 1632. William stated that his wife and three children were with him on this journey.

Soon after arriving in Boston, William and his family moved to a place called "Newtowne," which is now known as Cambridge, Massachusetts. On November 2, 1632, he became a "Freeman" of this town. Being a Freeman meant he had certain rights, like being able to vote and hold public office. He built his home near Harvard Square. From 1634 to 1635, he was chosen to be on the Board of Selectmen for Newtowne. Selectmen were like town council members who helped manage the town's affairs.

Founding Hartford

William Wadsworth was one of the first people to help found Hartford, Connecticut. In 1635, a religious leader named Rev. Thomas Hooker and his followers arrived in Newtowne. They had come from England. After disagreeing with some Puritan leaders in Massachusetts, they decided to move west.

In June 1636, William moved with his family and other members of the group. They traveled to a new settlement they named Hartford. William was one of the original landowners in the town. In 1639, his home lot was located where parts of Asylum Street are today.

In Hartford, William was very active in the community. He held important public jobs throughout his life. He was chosen as a "Townsman" of Hartford several times, in 1642, 1655, 1661, and 1673. He was also the Constable in 1651, which was like a local police officer. In 1668, he was the town's List and Rate Maker, helping to manage taxes. He was also a Deputy Constable many times between 1656 and 1675. William Wadsworth passed away in 1675. His will, or last wishes, was written on June 16, 1675. His belongings were valued at a large sum of money for that time.

William's Family

William Wadsworth was married twice and had several children.

His first wife was Sarah Talcott (1600 - October 24, 1643) from Braintree, Essex, England. They had the following children:

• Sarah Wadsworth (1626 - October 4, 1648) married John Wilkock, Jr. on September 17, 1646.
• William Wadsworth (1628 – died young)
• John Wadsworth, Hon. (1630 - November 6, 1689) married Sarah Stanley on April 14, 1652.
• Mary Wadsworth (1632 – 1685) married Thomas Stoughton in 1656.

William then married Elizabeth Stone (October 2, 1621 – 1682) on July 2, 1644, in Hartford, Connecticut. They had these children:

• Elizabeth Wadsworth (May 17, 1645 - March 12, 1715) married John Terry on November 27, 1662.
• Samuel Wadsworth (October 20, 1646 – August 1682) who did not marry.
• Joseph Wadsworth, Capt. (1647 – 1729) married Elizabeth Talcott.
• Sarah Wadsworth (March 17, 1649 - ) married Jonathan Ashley.
• Thomas Wadsworth (1651 – September 1687) married Elizabeth.
• Rebecca Wadsworth (1653 - )

Notable Descendants

Many people who are famous or important in history are descendants of William Wadsworth, through his sons John Wadsworth or Joseph Wadsworth. Joseph Wadsworth is especially known for his connection to the Charter Oak, a famous tree in Connecticut history.

Some of William Wadsworth's notable descendants include:

• Daniel Wadsworth (1771 – 1848)
• Decius Wadsworth (1768 - 1821)
• Elijah Wadsworth (1747 - 1817)
• Frederick Wadsworth (1786 - 1869)
• George Wadsworth (1893 – 1958)
• James Wadsworth (1768 - 1844)
• James Wadsworth (1730 – 1816)
• James S. Wadsworth (1807 – 1864)
• James Wadsworth (1819 - 1891)
• James Wolcott Wadsworth (1846 – 1926)
• James Wolcott Wadsworth Jr. (1877 – 1952)
• James Jeremiah Wadsworth (1905 – 1984)
• Jeremiah Wadsworth (1743 – 1804)
• Martha Wadsworth Brewster (1710 - 1757)
• William Wadsworth (1765 - 1833)
• Harrison Wadsworth Jr. (1924 - 2010)