Benny married his first wife, Karen Marie Wegley, on May 2, 1970. Together, they had three daughters. Melody, Tracy, and April. They would divorce on April 7, 1977.

In 1979, when he was 27, he had a fourth child, his only son, Nathaniel Wayne Richardson, with Cindy Walvoor, who was 15 or 16 at the time.

He married Carol J. Smith sometime around 1987. They had no children.

He played in bands his entire life. Mostly the guitar, but he also sang. He played in many local bands throughout the course of his life. Later, as his arthritis progressed, he taught himself the keyboard.

He was the son of Thomas Richardson and Katherine Duxford. His exact date of birth is unknown, but it is thought to be somewhere between 1601 and 1604.

He died in  Woburn, MA on October 21, 1647.

He married Susanna and together they had seven children.

1. Phebe (Phoebe) (June 3, 1632)
2. Theophilus (December 22, 1633)
3. Josiah (November 7, 1634)
4. John (July 21, 1638)
5. Jonathan (February 13, 1639/40?)
6. James (July 11, 1641)
7. Ruth (August 23, 1645)

Ezekiel Richardson was among the early settlers of New England, arriving in America in 1630 as part of the Puritan migration during the Great Migration period (1620–1640). He is also referred to in historical records as “Ezechll Richeson,” reflecting the fluidity of spelling in the 17th century.

Ezekiel was the son of Thomas Richardson and Katherine Duxford. Although his exact date of birth is not recorded, historians estimate it to be between 1601 and 1604, based on the known dates of his parents and siblings. He was born in Westmill, Hertfordshire, England, a village about 30 miles north of London.

The Richardson family were Puritans, part of a religious movement that sought to reform the Church of England. Dissatisfied with the slow pace of reform and the persecution they faced under King Charles I, Ezekiel joined the thousands of Puritans who left England for the New World in search of religious freedom and a fresh start.

Ezekiel Richardson arrived in America in 1630 as part of the Winthrop Fleet, a group of 11 ships carrying nearly 1,000 settlers led by Governor John Winthrop. This expedition established the Massachusetts Bay Colony, a critical milestone in the history of English colonization in North America.

After landing in Salem, Ezekiel became a prominent member of the Puritan community, helping to lay the foundations for a new society governed by strict religious principles and communal cooperation.

Life in the New World

Ezekiel settled first in Charlestown, Massachusetts, one of the earliest settlements in the colony, where he was admitted as a freeman in 1630. Becoming a freeman signified that he was a full member of the church and granted him the right to vote in the colony’s affairs, a privilege reserved for Puritan men who adhered to the church’s strict moral and theological standards.

In Charlestown, Ezekiel and his fellow settlers worked together to clear land, build homes, and establish the Puritan way of life. The early years were challenging, marked by harsh winters, limited supplies, and the need to establish friendly—or at least neutral—relations with local Native American tribes.

In 1640, Ezekiel moved to Woburn, Massachusetts, where he played a key role in founding the town. Woburn was incorporated in 1642, and Ezekiel served as a selectman, helping to manage the town’s governance and development.

The Richardson family would have lived a modest but disciplined life centered on Puritan values. Education and religious instruction were emphasized, as children were expected to learn to read the Bible. Susanna played a critical role in managing the household, ensuring her children grew up with strong moral and religious foundations.

The Boston Church

Ezechiel Richardson and his wife were admitted to Boston church as members #80 and #81, which would be in the winter of 1630/1; on 14 October 1632.

Ezechiel Richardson and Susan, his wife, were dismissed for participating in the organization of Charlestown church; on 2 November 1632, “Ezek:” and “Susan Richeson” were admitted to Charlestown church as founding members.

Ezekiel Richardson was admitted as an inhabitant of Charleston in 1630 and appeared in the lists of inhabitants on January 9, 1633/4, and January 1635/6.

In his will, dated 20 July 1647 and proved 1 June 1648, “Ezekiell Richardson of Woebourne” appointed “my wife Susanna and my eldest son Theophilus joint executors”; and bequeathed to “Josias my son -30” at twenty-one years of age; to “James my son -3O” at twenty-one years of age; to “Phebe my daughter -3O” at “twenty years of age or within six months after the day of her marriage”; if any of these three should die before they come of age, the legacies be shared among the survivors; in case “my son Theophilus die before he shall accomplish one and twenty years of age, then his portion shall be equally divided to my other children”; discharged demands against “my brother Samuell Richardson“; to “my brother Thomas Richardson, his son Thomas, 1Os.”; overseers Ed-ward Converse and John Mousall of Woburn, if either of these die, then the survivor with the consent of Thomas Carter, pastor of the church in Woburn, to choose a replacement overseer; 30s. to each overseer; residue to my executors, “provided that my wife may peacably enjoy her habitation in the house so long as she shall live”.

The inventory of the estate of Ezekiel Richardson was taken on 18 November 1647 and totaled -19O 6s. 6d., with no real estate included.

On 6 March 1649/50 Edward Converse confirmed to the heirs of Ezekiel Richardson an earlier sale of twelve acres of meadow & upland in Woburn [MLR 2:71].

Now look at this tidbit of information —

On 27 March 1651, Samuel Richeson of Woburn, “having formerly sold unto Ezekill Richeson my brother (who is since deceased) forty acres of arable & meadow land” in Woburn, confirmed the same to “my sister Susanna Brookes (who was the wife of my deceased brother Ezekill Richeson”, On 23 March 1654/5

See that? That shows us that in fact, Ezekiel Richardson was the brother of Samuel Richardson, son of Thomas Richardson. So I’m not sure why Thomas Richardson of Standon left him out of the will, but it could have to do with why Ezekiel left to America a few years prior.

“Susanna Richeson now Brookes formerly the wife of Ezek: Richeson” confirmed a sale made eight years earlier by “Ezekill Richardson & Sussanna Richardson my wife” to Thomas Moulton and John Greenland of thirty-five acres of land in Woburn. On 13 December 1659, “Henry Brookes & Susanna Brookes of Woburn,” in accordance with an award of the court, deeded to Theophilus Richardson the right and title they had in “the moiety or half part of the housing & land of Ezekiell Richardson of Woburn aforesaid, by executorship or otherwise”.

So what this information tells us, is that Susanna Richardson was the wife of Ezekiel. These are the kinds of historical documents that are the proof we need to trace specific members of our family.

Death and Legacy

Ezekiel Richardson passed away on October 21, 1647, in Woburn, Massachusetts. His death occurred during a period when Woburn was still in its early stages of development, with settlers working hard to carve a new life out of the wilderness.

Ezekiel’s legacy is one of perseverance and faith. As one of the early settlers and founders of Woburn, he helped establish a community that would thrive for generations. His descendants carried on his work, becoming part of the fabric of colonial New England society. His children, including Theophilus Richardson, played significant roles in expanding the Richardson family and contributing to the growth of the Massachusetts Bay Colony.

The first bit of verifiable information comes from the book – A genealogical dict. of the first settlers of New England, showing three generations of those who came before May, 1692. By James Savage. Boston. 1861. (4v.)v.3:536 — volume 146 page 1.

Next, we have The Richardson Memorial, Part 1 of 2, John Adams Vinton, Brown Thurston & Co.  Portland, ME, 1876, pg 186-187. It tells us — 1555.

JOSEPH RICHARDSON,²  brother of the preceding, and second son of Samuel Richardson,¹ was born in Woburn, July 27, 1643; married, Nov. 5, 1666, HANNAH GREEN,² born about 1647, daughter of Thomas¹ and Elizabeth Green, of Malden.

Stephen was the grandson of Samuel Richardson, one of the three Richardson brothers (alongside Ezekiel and Thomas) who emigrated to the Massachusetts Bay Colony in 1630 as part of the Great Migration. The Richardsons were devout Puritans, and their faith and values influenced their leadership and roles in the developing colony.

Stephen’s father, Joseph Richardson (1643–1718), was born in Woburn and married Hannah Green, the daughter of Thomas Green and Elizabeth Green of Malden. Joseph Richardson was a freeman of the colony, a member of the church, and an active participant in civic life, serving as a selectman in Woburn and fighting as one of Major Samuel Appleton’s soldiers during King Philip’s War (1675–1678). This legacy of civic engagement and military service was passed down to Stephen and his siblings.

Stephen was one of six children born into a family that emphasized religious devotion, community involvement, and family unity. His siblings included Hannah, Mary, Elizabeth, Joseph, and another brother, all of whom contributed to the growth of Woburn and the Richardson family’s enduring legacy.

Marriage and Family

Stephen married Bridget Richardson, a distant relative, continuing the practice of intermarriage within prominent families in colonial New England. This was not uncommon and helped maintain property and alliances within the community. Together, Stephen and Bridget had six children:

1. Stephen Richardson (1696–1703): The couple’s first son, who died young.
2. Phebe Richardson Snow (1704–1785): Their daughter, named after Phebe Richardson, the daughter of Ezekiel and Susanna Richardson, who was a key figure in the family lineage. Phebe married and lived a long life, contributing to the family’s story.
3. Ichabod Richardson (1706–1768): Ichabod became a prominent member of the Richardson family, representing the family’s continued influence in the Woburn area.
4. Stephen Richardson (1707–1787): Named after his deceased elder brother, a common practice in colonial families.
5. Adam Richardson (1709–1758): Another son who carried on the family name.
6. Asa Richardson (1713–1752): Asa’s life ended the same year as Stephen’s, marking a significant loss for the family.

The naming of children after deceased siblings or other relatives reflects the Puritan tradition of honoring family members and preserving their memory. The unusual spelling of Phebe’s name likely stems from earlier generations, specifically Phebe Richardson, daughter of Ezekiel and Susanna Richardson.

Life in Woburn, Massachusetts

Woburn, founded in 1642, was an early Puritan settlement. By the time Stephen was born, it was a thriving but still frontier-like community, heavily influenced by the strict religious practices and communal values of Puritan society. The town revolved around the church, which served as both a spiritual and civic center.

Stephen, like his father and grandfather, would have grown up farming, helping to clear and maintain land, and contributing to the survival of his family and community. Woburn’s economy was primarily agrarian, supplemented by small-scale trades and goods exchanged within the community or with neighboring towns like Boston.

The Puritan emphasis on literacy likely meant that Stephen had some level of education, as the ability to read the Bible was considered essential. His family, being relatively prominent in Woburn, would have ensured their children were well-prepared for leadership roles in the church and community.

Legacy and Death

Stephen Richardson passed away on February 4, 1752, just three days shy of his 78th birthday. He was buried in Woburn, where his family’s legacy was firmly established. His death marked the end of a life deeply intertwined with the development of one of New England’s earliest settlements.

Through his children, Stephen’s legacy continued, with the Richardson family remaining influential in Woburn and beyond. His descendants carried forward the values of faith, hard work, and community service that characterized the early Puritan settlers.

Historical Context

Stephen Richardson’s life was shaped by the broader events of colonial New England:

1. King Philip’s War (1675–1678): His father, Joseph, fought in this brutal conflict, which defined his childhood and the Richardson family’s commitment to defending the colony.
2. Puritan Society: The strict religious and moral codes of the Puritan faith governed every aspect of life in Woburn. This disciplined, community-focused lifestyle ensured the survival of settlements like Woburn in a challenging environment.
3. Intergenerational Continuity: As the grandson of Samuel Richardson, Stephen was part of a lineage that contributed to the success of the Massachusetts Bay Colony, ensuring that their legacy endured for generations.

Stephen Richardson’s life exemplifies the experiences of a second-generation Puritan settler in New England. Born into a family of pioneers, Stephen upheld the values of faith, family, and community. His contributions, both as a father and a resident of Woburn, helped shape the colony’s enduring foundation. Today, his descendants and the records preserved about his life provide a window into the struggles and triumphs of early colonial America.

We can verify this date of birth in the Woburn Mass records of births, deaths, and marriage records. It shows us that he was born on July 27, 1643, and is the son of Samuel.

Joseph was raised in a devout Puritan household. His father, Samuel Richardson, was among the founders of Woburn, which was incorporated in 1642. The Richardsons were prominent members of the community, known for their active involvement in both civic and church life.

Joseph’s birth is documented in the Woburn records of births, deaths, and marriages, confirming his birthdate as July 27, 1643, and listing him as the son of Samuel Richardson. These records demonstrate the meticulous record-keeping of the early Puritan settlers, who viewed such documentation as an important aspect of community organization.

On November 5, 1666, Joseph married Hannah Green, daughter of Thomas Green and Elizabeth Green of Malden, Massachusetts (modern-day Melrose). Hannah was born around 1647 and came from another prominent colonial family. Her father, Thomas Green, had emigrated from England before 1640 and was a selectman in Malden in 1658.

Joseph and Hannah Richardson had five children, all born in Woburn:

1. Hannah Richardson (b. October 22, 1667): Married Daniel Baldwin.
2. Mary Richardson (b. March 22, 1669): Married, first, James Fowle; second, Samuel Walker.
3. Elizabeth Richardson (b. June 28, 1670): Married, first, John Coggin; second, Jacob Wyman.
4. Joseph Richardson (b. May 19, 1672): Married Mary Blodget.
5. Stephen Richardson (b. February 7, 1674): Married Bridget Richardson, continuing the family line.

The Richardson family’s legacy extended through these children, who married into other notable families in the region, strengthening the family’s social and economic position.

Joseph Richardson was an active and respected member of the Woburn community. He was admitted as a freeman of the colony on May 15, 1672, signifying his full membership in the church and his eligibility to participate in colonial governance.

Joseph also served as a selectman of Woburn in 1693, 1694, and 1702, a role that involved overseeing the town’s administration, land allocation, and local disputes. This reflects his standing in the community and his commitment to public service.

In addition to his civic contributions, Joseph demonstrated his courage and dedication during King Philip’s War (1675–1678), one of the most devastating conflicts between English settlers and Native American tribes. He served as one of Major Samuel Appleton’s soldiers and fought in the Battle of the Great Swamp, an assault on the Narragansetts’ fort on December 19, 1675. This battle was a turning point in the war but came at a great cost, with significant losses on both sides. Joseph’s participation in this conflict highlights his role in defending the colony during one of its most perilous periods.

Later Life and Legacy

Joseph Richardson passed away on March 5, 1718, in Woburn. His will, dated June 24, 1717, was proved on April 22, 1718 and recorded in the Middlesex Probate Records (Volume XV, Page 143). The will provides insight into his character and priorities, showing that he carefully and generously provided for his wife, Hannah, and their children.

One notable provision in the will states that his son Joseph must “find her [Hannah] a horse, and keep the same for her use, and a man or himself to ride before her on Sabbath days, or where she shall have occasions to go, all during her natural life, if she remains my widow.” This stipulation underscores Joseph’s attentiveness to his wife’s well-being and the Puritan emphasis on familial duty.

Hannah Richardson outlived Joseph by three years, passing away on May 20, 1721.

Historical Context

Joseph Richardson lived during a pivotal period in New England’s history. Born shortly after the Massachusetts Bay Colony’s founding, he witnessed its transformation from a fledgling settlement to an established and prosperous region. Key historical events during his lifetime include:

1. The Great Migration: The wave of Puritan emigration to New England in the mid-17th century shaped the culture and governance of towns like Woburn.
2. King Philip’s War: This brutal conflict between colonists and Native Americans was a defining event in Joseph’s adult life and underscored the fragility of colonial existence.
3. The Dominion of New England (1686–1689): Joseph lived through the imposition of centralized control over the New England colonies by King James II, followed by the Glorious Revolution and the colony’s return to self-governance.

Joseph’s descendants carried on the Richardson family’s legacy in Woburn and beyond. His children married into other prominent colonial families, and their offspring continued to contribute to the development of Massachusetts. The Richardson Memorial, published in 1876, provides detailed genealogical records of his lineage, reflecting the enduring interest in and importance of the Richardson family in early New England history.

Joseph Richardson’s life exemplifies the values of Puritan New England: faith, hard work, community service, and dedication to family. From his early years in Woburn to his service as a soldier and selectman, Joseph played a vital role in the growth of his town and the colony. His careful planning for his family’s future, as seen in his will, highlights his commitment to ensuring their well-being even after his death. Today, his legacy endures through his numerous descendants and the rich records that preserve his story.

I found this document created by another person doing research. Please keep in mind just because someone says something doesn’t make it true. However, I did want to include it for your reference. Just don’t consider it 100% factually true unless you personally verify the information.

Next, we have a record of those buried in Woburn. Notice you’ll see Stephen Richardson died on February 4, 1752.

These official documents are what help us prove specific dates and family connections. When doing your own family research, always make sure that you confirm anything someone else has said, with official documents.

He is the son of Thomas Richardson and Catherine Duxford. We know this because Samuel was the executor of his father’s estate on July 31, 1634, in Hutchins, England. This is the Thomas Richardson that we also call Thomas Richardson of Standon.

Samuel Richardson was christened at St. Mary the Virgin in Westmill on December 22, 1604.

Samuel Richardson married Joanna Thake. They were married on October 18, 163 in Great Hormead, Hertfordshire, England.

Together, they had at least nine children.

• Mary (1637-1677)
• John (1639-1696)
• Hannah (1642-1642)
• Joseph (1643-1718)
• Samuel (1646-1712)
• Stephen (1649-1717)
• Thomas (1651-1657)
• Elizabeth (1653-1677) ?????

In 1636, they arrived in Charlestown, Massachusetts. He was one of the founders and largest landowners of Woburn, Mass.

His father was Thomas Richardson of Standon, and his mother was Katherine Duxford.

Samuel Richardson (1602 – 1658)
11th great-grandfather

However, I should note there is a Millennium file document that says he died in March of 1630. But that could be his son.

What I can say for sure is when he was born and married.

• Born: May 14, 1523, in Westmill, Hertfordshire, England
• Married on June 15, 1567, in St. Albans, in Hertfordshire, England

It was originally thought that Thomas Richardson I of Westmill’s father was Ralph Richardson of the Jersey Channel Islands. That turns out, however, not to be true.

Thomas Richardson I of Westmill had a son known as Thomas Richardson of Westmill. We call him Thomas Richardson II of Westmill, just to avoid confusion.

This Thomas is not the person known as Sir Thomas Richardson. He is also not the Thomas Richardson from Alphamstone. This is also not the Thomas Richardson, who married Margaret and has a son named Thomas, who was born in Kirkham, Lancashire, England. We can say this for sure because that child was born on July 20, 1823. Our guy was dead hundreds of years before that.

Many have wrongly associated this Thomas Richardson with Sir Thomas Richardson of the Scottish Peerage. That would be impossible because ancient records tell us that he married on December 14, 1626, at St. Giles-in-the-Fields, London, without issue. That means he had no children, so he can’t be your ancestor because his line ended with him.

So who is our Thomas Richardson? This gets confusing for a few generations so to clarify …

• Thomas Richardson I of Westmill married Margaret Silverside (1523-1570)
• Thomas Richardson II of Westmill married Mary Margaret Champney (1543-1630)
• Thomas Richarson of Standon married Katherine Duxford (1590 – 1633)

Thomas Richardson I of Westmill married Margaret Silverside on June 15, 1567. How do we know when our Thomas was born? Thanks to the “Heritage Consulting. Millennium File”.  This record tells us that he was born in 1523.

Heritage Consulting. Millennium File. Provo, UT, USA: Ancestry.com Operations Inc, 2003. Original data: Heritage Consulting. The Millennium File. Salt Lake City, UT, USA: Heritage Consulting.

The problem is the death date is wrong. It lists the death date of his son, Thomas II. This is why it’s so hard to find accurate information when even “official” records are flawed.

Thomas Richardson married Margaret Silverside in 1567 at St. Albans Abbey.

Below is a copy of their marriage register which clearly shows they were married in 1567 on June 15th.

The problem with the name “Thomas Richardson” is that at this time in history, there were more than a few of them in the area. This makes it very hard to figure out which one is which. That’s why when you find any sort of absolute proof of information, you have to hold onto it tightly to make sure you don’t confuse or mix up people because it’s so easy to do.

This record comes from the Hertfordshire online archives. Why it is important because it further proves we have the right Thomas with the right wife.

So now the question is, who is Thomas Richardson I of Westmill’s father?

Thomas Richardson I of Westmill’s life, spanning the mid-16th century, occurred during a time of profound cultural, religious, and political transformation in England. He married Margaret Silverside on June 15, 1567, at St. Albans Abbey, another Hertfordshire town with deep historical significance. Although the details of his death remain unclear, it is likely he passed away around 1570, as you’ve noted.

Here’s a closer look at what life was like in Westmill and England during this period:

Westmill, Hertfordshire in the 1500s

1. A Rural Village Setting:
   • Westmill, like much of Hertfordshire, was a small agricultural village. It was surrounded by fertile farmland, which supported the livelihoods of most of its inhabitants. Families like the Richardsons would have been engaged in farming, producing crops such as wheat, barley, oats, and vegetables, as well as raising livestock like sheep, cows, and chickens.
   • The village likely consisted of a few cottages clustered around a parish church, connected by dirt roads. The church played a central role in daily life, not only as a place of worship but also as a hub for social and communal activities.
2. Population and Economy:
   • The population of Westmill in the mid-1500s was small, likely a few hundred people. Life revolved around agricultural work, with a strong emphasis on self-sufficiency. Any surplus produce was sold or bartered in local markets or fairs, such as those in nearby towns like St. Albans.
   • Land ownership was hierarchical, with local gentry or landlords controlling large estates. Tenant farmers and laborers worked the land in exchange for rent or wages. The Richardsons may have been tenant farmers or small landowners.

Religious and Political Landscape

1. Religious Change:
   • Thomas Richardson was born during the early years of the English Reformation. In 1523, England was still a Catholic country, but by the 1530s, King Henry VIII had broken from the Catholic Church and established the Church of England. This led to significant upheaval in local parishes, including those in Hertfordshire.
   • By the time Thomas married Margaret in 1567, Queen Elizabeth I was on the throne, and Protestantism had been firmly established as the state religion. However, tensions between Catholics and Protestants persisted, and compliance with the Church of England was mandatory. Religious conformity was enforced, and dissenters were often fined or punished.
2. Social Structure:
   • Society in Westmill and Hertfordshire was highly stratified. The monarch and aristocracy held the most power, followed by the gentry and yeoman farmers. Below them were tenant farmers, tradespeople, and laborers.
   • The Richardsons may have been yeomen or prosperous tenant farmers, as they appear to have been respected members of their community. Marrying in St. Albans, a more prominent town, suggests some level of social mobility or standing.

Daily Life in 16th-Century Westmill

1. Work and Routine:
   • Life revolved around the agricultural calendar. Men and women worked long hours in the fields, tending crops and animals. Children were expected to help from a young age.
   • In addition to farming, villagers engaged in small-scale crafts or trades, such as weaving, smithing, or carpentry. Any extra income would be used to purchase essentials that couldn’t be produced locally.
2. Marriage and Family:
   • Marriage in the 16th century was often arranged or influenced by practical concerns, such as consolidating property or strengthening family alliances. Thomas and Margaret likely married for both social and economic reasons.
   • Families were large, as high infant mortality rates meant that not all children survived to adulthood. The Richardsons’ son, Thomas Richardson II, carried on the family legacy in Westmill, demonstrating the importance of maintaining a lineage during this period.
3. Education and Literacy:
   • Literacy was not widespread, but it was becoming more common among wealthier farmers and tradespeople. The Protestant Reformation placed a greater emphasis on reading the Bible, which may have encouraged basic literacy in rural communities like Westmill.

Hertfordshire’s Role in Tudor England

Hertfordshire, including Westmill, was strategically located near London and played a role in supplying food and goods to the capital. It was a relatively prosperous county due to its fertile soil and proximity to trade routes. Towns like St. Albans, where Thomas and Margaret were married, were significant centers of commerce and religion.

Clarifying Thomas Richardson’s Lineage

The challenge of accurately tracing Thomas Richardson I of Westmill’s ancestry underscores the complexity of genealogical research during this period. As you’ve noted, there were many individuals named “Thomas Richardson” in the area and throughout England, which complicates efforts to distinguish one from another. Misattributions, such as connecting him to Sir Thomas Richardson of the Scottish Peerage or other prominent figures, highlight the need for caution in interpreting historical records.

The Hertfordshire Marriages Record provides crucial evidence of Thomas’s marriage to Margaret Silverside, solidifying their connection and place in history. However, the question of Thomas’s father remains unresolved due to the lack of definitive documentation from the early 1500s. While it was previously believed that Ralph Richardson of the Jersey Channel Islands was his father, this claim has been debunked, leaving the matter open for further investigation.

Historical Significance

Thomas Richardson I of Westmill lived during a transformative period in English history, witnessing the shift from medieval to early modern England. His life, marriage, and descendants are part of the broader story of Hertfordshire’s development and England’s religious and social upheavals. As a farmer or tradesman in Westmill, he would have experienced both the challenges and opportunities of life in a rural Tudor community, contributing to the foundation of his family’s enduring legacy.

He is not the person known as “Sir Thomas Richardson.”

He is also not the person who was buried on  December 13, 1630, at St Mary, Whitechapel, Tower Hamlets, Middlesex, England.  Although they have the same name and died in the same year, our Thomas Richardson, Thomas Richardson of Westmill II, died in March, not in December. Our Thomas died in Westmill, not in Middlesex.

There is a record out there stating that Thomas Richardson was buried on December 13, 1630, at St Mary, Whitechapel, Tower Hamlets, Middlesex, England. This is an official Parish register.

This is from “London, England, Church of England Baptisms, Marriages, and Burials, 1538-1812 – Tower Hamlets – St Mary, Whitechapel – 1558 – 1643”.

Middlesex is in modern-day London. That’s about an hour’s drive from Westmill. St. Mary’s was a church in the 1600s that was located in Whitechapel. This is a district that is now in the East End of London, in the London Borough of Tower Hamlets.

The document in question refers to the St Mary Matfelon church, which was an English parish church on Whitechapel Road in Whitechapel, London.

The distance from Westmill to Whitechapel (approximately 30–40 miles) would take at least 8–12 hours round-trip, depending on road conditions and breaks. Travel in the 1600s was arduous and not undertaken lightly, particularly for funerals.

It’s highly improbable that a person who was born, married, and lived in Westmill their entire life would have been buried at St. Mary’s in Whitechapel. Burials typically occurred in the local parish churchyard, which, in the case of Westmill, would have been St. Mary the Virgin, the village church.

Given the historical context of burial practices, the importance of local parish records, and the travel difficulties of the time.  Therefore, we can reasonably assume that the record for Thomas Richardson, who was buried on December 13, 1630, is not our Thomas Richardson II of Westmill.

____________________

Thomas Richardson II of Westmill was born in St. Albans Abbey in Westmill.  His wife was Mary Margaret Champney and together they had at least one child.

• Thomas Richardson of Standon

They could have had more children and likely did, but so far, I haven’t been able to find any information other than about their son, Thomas Richardson of Standon.

His date of death on March 4, 1630, in Westmill, comes from the Find a Grave listing. This, however, lists his wife as Mary Margaret Silverside, who, in fact, is his mother.

We have a record called the Millennium File that tells us Thomas Richardson was born in 1523 in Westmill. He died in March of 1630 in Westmill, and his wife was Margaret Silverside. Their child was Thomas Richardson.

Because this can get confusing, I named  …

• Thomas Richardson was born in 1523 – Thomas Richardson I of Westmill
• I then named his son Thomas Richardson II of Westmill.
• I then named his son Thomas Richardson of Standon.

We next have the England, Select Births and Christenings file that tells us Thomas Richardson of Standon is the father of Samuel Richardson.

Next, we have a document telling us that Thomas Richardson married someone named Mary. Well, guess what?  That document is totally useless to us because both Thomas Richardson I and Thomas Richardson II of Westmill both married someone named Mary.

• Thomas Richarson I of Westmill married Mary Margaret Silverside.
• Thomas Richarson II of Westmill married Mary Margaret Champney.

See the problem? So, we must keep trying to figure out more family connections.

We know that during the 1880 US Census he was 2 years old, so that means he was about about 1878. This makes him 4 years younger than William Alexander.

This record also says that he was born in Texas, not Tennessee like so many others list.

When I corrected that information on my bio is where I was able to find all my information about him.

John Henry Richardson was born on January 12, 1878 in Wise, Texas. We were able to get this information from his World War 1 Draft Registration Card.

John Henry Richardson married Lou Ella Fortner on May 4, 1897 in Smith, Texas.

He and his wife, Ella Lou (aka Lou Ella) Fortner, had quite a few number of children.  During the 1920 census we see that both he and his wife are 43. At the time they list off 7 children, however that’s not even half the story ….

• Claude
• Lizzie
• Hazel
• Lela
• Dora
• Fannie
• JD
• Dewie

In all they had at least 16 (maybe 17) children, several of which died young.

1. Claude T (1896)
2. Infant Son (possibly twins – Died – 1898)
3. Anna Richardson (1899)
4. Kendrick (1901)
5. James Clifton (1903)
6. Lizzie (1906)
7. Jessie Lena (1907)
8. Elsie (1908)
9. Hazel Martha (1908)
10. Infant Daughter (Died – 1910)
11. Lela Gertrude (1910)
12. Dora Carolina (1913)
13. Frances Mae (1915)
14. Fannie (1916)
15. Jake D (1918)
16. Dewie W (1919)

John Henry died at the age of 26 on January 17, 1924, in what today is Waurika, Oklahoma.

He is the son of Stephen Richardson and Mary Trueblood.

I don’t have a lot of information on him. I think he might have died in 1777 in North Carolina.

He married Nancy Mary and together they had maybe 5 children.

• William Drury (1735)
• William (1750)
• Stephen (1753)
• Elizabeth (1755)
• David (1760)

The problem is, when you have someone with such a common name like David or John David, you find it difficult to distinguish them from other men of the same name who also live in the same area.

While trying to find information about John David and his wife, I had to start by working on the files of his son, David Richardson. His son had more information available because he was in the military, having fought in the American Revolution.

1845, Oct 27 — Revolutionary War Application
Sarah Richardson (age 85), widow of David Richardson applied
lists David Richardson as dying on May 17, 1842 in Moore County, NC
listed marriage as 1785 in Cumberland County, NC
lists children as John Richardson, Polly Cockman, Jenney Smith, Nancy Richardson, Vicey Richardson, Betsey Morgan, Angy Brown, Peggy Richardson & Malony Smith.

1852, Oct 25 — Revolutionary War Application
John Richardson, son and administrator of David Richardson, deceased applied for pension
lists David Richardson as dying on May 17, 1842 in Moore County, NC
lists Sarah Richardson as dying on Oct 30, 1847
lists children as Polly Cockman, Jenny Smith, Nancy Richardson, Vicy Richardson, Betsey Morgan, Angy Brown, Peggy Richardson & Malony Smith.

David Richardson is the son of John David Richardson and the father of John David Richardson. Confusing? Yeah don’t worry, it was for me too.

David Richardson lived in Moore County, along Buffalo Creek, a tributary of Deep River.

We know that Jonathan David Richardson was born in 1760 because of his marriage record.

I was trying to find out if he was the same David Richardson that was born in 1760 in Cumberland County.  Turns out I couldn’t find out the record of his birth because in 1769 all Cumberland County records were destroyed in the burning of the Bladen County courthouse.

So what I needed to find is what could be the link between Cumberland County and Moore County.  And I finally found it!  Moore County was formed from Cumberland County in 1784.

A year later in 1785, he married Sarah in Moore County.

4 years after that he got a grant of land (50 acres)

And there we have it …. that is how I made the link, to confirm he is the same person.   I know it’s not scientific proof but it’s the best I can come up with. 🙂

Maybe one day I can get some kind of church records or whatnot to prove his birth is one in the same but for now, this will have to do.

David Richardson fought in the American Revolution. At the age of 85, his wife Sarah applied for a war pension as his widow. This is how we know he died on May 17, 1842.

She lists his children as John Richardson, Polly Cockman, Jenney Smith, Nancy Richardson, Vicey Richardson, Betsey Morgan, Angy Moore, Peggy Richardson & Malony Smith.

Through various records and notes, we found that David served as a Private and Lieutenant under Captain Cox-Captain Buie and Captain Henry Carter. He was taken prisoner at Charleston, SC and conveyed to Wilmington, NC where he was kept in confinement four months and then exchanged.

It appears that David Richardson fought on the side of the Confederate during the American Revolution. He served with the North Carolina Infantry as a Private. The American Revolution took place between 1765 and 1783. He was in the 45th Regiment, North Carolina Infantry, Company D. Film # M230 roll 33.

David Richardson was born in 1760. He married Sarah in 1785 (when he was 25 years old and Sarah was 20). That same year their daughter Polly was born.

In all, they had at least 9 children during their marriage.

• Polly
• Vicey
• Jenney
• Jonathan David
• Peggy
• Maloney
• Nancy
• Angy
• Betsey

1789, Sep 3 — Land Grant #310, Moore County, NC

David Richardson died on May 17, 1842.

So to note this means he is not the same David who served in the Civil War because that was from 1861-1865. He was long dead. We know his exact date of death because of his widow’s request for a war pension.

• 1780 — Tax List, Cumberland County, NC
  David Richerson listed in Captain John Cox’s District
  listed 400 acres valued at $450
  3 Horses, 7 Cattle and $7 cash
  Total tax value $7171783 — Tax List, Cumberland County, NC
  David Richardson listed as paying $10 in Captain John Cox’s District1789, May 18 — 1784-1795 County Court Minutes, Moore County, NC Page 228
  A deed from John Shuffield to Stephen Smith was proven by David Richardson

  1789, Jun 4 — Land Entry #189, Moore County, NC
  David Richardson entered 50 acres located on Mill Creek

  1789, Sep 3 — Land Grant #310, Moore County, NC
  David Richardson received a 50 acre Land Grant located on Mill Creek

  1789, Sep 3 — Land Grant #334, Moore County, NC
  David Richardson served as a Chain Carrier on John Morgan’s 50 acre Land Grant located East of Cabin Creek

  1790 — Census, Moore County, NC Page 156
  David Richeson
  (16+) 1M
  4F

  1790, Aug 17 — County Court Minutes, Moore County, NC
  David Richardson proved a Deed from John Morgan to William Morgan

  1790, Aug 17 — County Court Minutes, Moore County, NC
  Davey Richardson served Jury Duty

  1794, Aug 20 — County Court Minutes, Moore County, NC
  David Richardson served Jury Duty

  1795, Mar 27 — Land Grant #1054, Moore County, NC
  David Richardson served as a Chain Carrier on John Morgan’s 100 acre Land Grant located on Cabin Creek

  1795, May 20 — County Court Minutes, Moore County, NC
  David Richardson served Jury Duty

  1795, Nov 16 — County Court Minutes, Moore County, NC
  David Richardson served Jury Duty

  1798, Feb 14 — Land Grant #1740 & 1741, Moore County, NC
  David Richardson served as a Chain Carrier on William Smith’s (2) 100 acre Land Grants located on Wet Creek and Cabin Creek

  1798, Nov 30 — Land Grant #1474, Moore County, NC
  John Morgan receives a 100 acre Land Grant located South of Cabin Creek that included David Richardson’s improvement

  1800 — Census, Moore County, NC Page 69
  David Richardson
  (45+) 1M
  (26-45) 1F
  (16-26) 1F
  (10-16) 2F
  (0-10) 1M 2F

  1800, Jul 26 — Land Grant #1686, Moore County, NC
  David Richardson served as a Chain Carrier on Murdock McLeod’s 100 acre Land Grant located between Dry Creek and Horse Creek

  1803, Nov 15 — Land Grant #1837, Moore County, NC
  David Richardson listed as a Neighbor on John Dunn’s 100 acre Land Grant located South of Mill Creek

  1804, Apr 7 — Land Grant #1954, Moore County, NC
  David Richardson served as a Chain Carrier on Levy Deaton’s 50 acre Land Grant located East of Wet Creek

  1810 — Census, Moore County, NC Page 624
  David Richardson
  (45+) 1M 1F
  (16-26) 2F
  (10-16) 1F
  (0-10) 1M 4F

  1814, Nov 11 — Land Grant #2228, Moore County, NC
  Daniel McNeill received a 52 acre Land Grant located West of Wet Creek adjoining Grove, Neil McLeod, Thomas Harvel and Key. Phillip McNeill and David Richardson were chain carriers.

  1814, Nov 11 — Land Grant #2230, Moore County, NC
  Hector McNeill received a 15.5 acre Land Grant located East of Wet Creek adjoining own line, Neil McLeod and Grove. Phillip McNeill and David Richardson were chain carriers.

  1815 — Tax List, Moore County, NC
  David Richardson lists 75 acres valued at $75

  1818-1823 — Tax List, Moore County, NC
  David Richardson lists 75 acres valued at $100

  1820 — Census, Moore County, NC Page 310
  David Richardson
  (45+) 1M 1F
  (16-26) 2F
  (10-16) 1F
  (0-10) 1M

  1830 — Census, Moore County, NC Page 477
  David Richardson
  (60-70) 1M
  (50-60) 1F
  (40-50) 1F
  (20-30) 1F
  (15-20) 1M
  (10-15) 1M

  1836, Jan 9 — Land Grant #2970, Moore County, NC
  Hiram Deaton received a 100 acre Land Grant located between Mill Creek and Cabin Creek and adjoins the land that he purchased from David Richardson

  1845, Oct 27 — Revolutionary War Application
  Sarah Richardson (age 85), widow of David Richardson applied
  lists David Richardson as dying on May 17, 1842 in Moore County, NC
  listed marriage as 1785 in Cumberland County, NC
  lists children as John Richardson, Polly Cockman, Jenney Smith, Nancy Richardson, Vicey Richardson, Betsey Morgan, Angy Brown, Peggy Richardson & Malony Smith.

  1852, Oct 25 — Revolutionary War Application
  John Richardson, son and administrator of David Richardson, deceased applied for pension
  lists David Richardson as dying on May 17, 1842 in Moore County, NC
  lists Sarah Richardson as dying on Oct 30, 1847
  lists children as Polly Cockman, Jenny Smith, Nancy Richardson, Vicy Richardson, Betsey Morgan, Angy Brown, Peggy Richardson & Malony Smith.

Thomas Richardson of Standon is my 12th great-grandfather.

This is a person that I was struggling to verify information about. Luckily the UK is big on record keeping and thanks to the fact that Hertfordshire in England has their very own records database I was able to confirm the identity of Thomas Richardson who from now we will refer to as Thomas Richardson of Standon.

• Birth: Aug 24, 1560 (1565??) – Standon, Hertfordshire, England
• Death: Jan 7, 1633 – Westmill, Hertfordshire, England

The International Genealogical Index says that he was born on August 24, 1560, and died on January 8, 1633. It also states that he was married on  August 24, 1590.

Here is an image, although not a clear one — proving his marriage in 1590 – August 24, 1590, to be exact.

Notice the typos in the name. It’s not really as much a typo as a variation of the spelling.  Look at this clearer image of his grandmother’s marriage registry (Thomas Richardson I of Westmill)

We spell May as May and they spell it, Maye. We spell July they spell it, Julie. February to them was Februarie. Obviously, in context, we know what they meant, but it’s just a perfect example of why it’s so hard sometimes to find certain information.

So while we know they are talking about Thomas Richardson of Standon, it can complicate things when we are trying to find out the details Thoms Richardson of Stondon’s life.

We know he married Katherine Duxford of Westmill, but they call her Kathren Duxforde of West.

Thomas Richardson married Kathern Duxford (Katherine Duxford) on August 24, 1590, in Westmill, Hertfordshire, England. Their marriage took place at the St. Mary the Virgin Parish Church in Westmill. This is also where he would later be buried.

We know for a fact this is his wife because a copy of his will still exists in the Hertfordshire, England archives to this day.

For clarification purposes, this Thomas Richardson’s mother is not Agnes. So if you find a record that says something else, then it is not a record that belongs to this Thomas Richardson who we are now referring to as Thomas Richardson of Standon. Thomas Richardson of Standon’s mother was Mary “Margaret” Champney and his father, who married his father, almost named Thomas Richardson.

This Thomas Richardson is not Sir Thomas Richardson. Sir Thomas has some association with Alphamstone, while our Thomas does not. If you come across a Thomas Richardson record that references Alphamstone, then that isn’t Thomas Richardson of Standon.

Westmill is a very tiny village in England. Today less than 300 people live there. It’s just north of London.

Together he and his wife had 7 children.

• Elizabeth (1593)
• John (1596)
• James (1600)
• Samuel (1602)
• Ezekiel (1604 ???)
• Margaret (1607)
• Thomas (1608)

We know the names of his children from his will. His will lists the name of each child as well as the exact date of their baptism.

Elizabeth y^ daughter to Thomas Richardson baptized 13 Jan. 1593.
John son to Thomas Richardson baptized 7 Nov. 1596.
James, y” sonne of Thomas Richardson baptized 6 Apr. 1600.
Samuel y® sonne of Thomas Richardson baptized 22 Dec. 1602 [or 1604],
Margaret ye daughter of Thomas Richardson baptized 19 April 1607.
Thomas ye sonne of Thomas Richardson baptized 3 July 1608. 

Notice that their son Ezekiel who had gone off to America in 1630, wasn’t event acknowledged in the will.

Thomas’ will indicates he was a farmer of moderate means. He was a Husbandman when his will was created on March 4 in 1630 (31?).

A husbandman in England at that time period was a free tenant farmer or small landowner. The social status of a husbandman was below that of a yeoman. The meaning of “husband” in this term is “master of the house” rather than “married man” like we know it today.

Back then yeomen were farmers who owned land. Their wealth and the size of their landholding varied. Sir Anthony Richard Wagner, Garter Principal King of Arms, wrote that “a Yeoman would not normally have less than 100 acres and in social status is one step down from the Landed Gentry, but above, say, a husbandman.”

Often it was hard to distinguish minor landed gentry from the wealthier yeomen, and wealthier husbandmen from the poorer yeomen.

Landed gentry basically meant the lesser nobility in England. They basically consisted of Baronets, Knights, Esquires, and Gentlemen.

So it went Landed gentry, then yeoman and then husbandmen — which is what Thomas Richardson of Standon was.

When he passed he left Katherine “my littell close of pasture called little hunnymease, containing half an acre”.

*** half an acre in Westmill today will cost you upwards of a million bucks.

After her death, he wishes it all to go to his son Samuel and his heirs.

John is to be paid 40 shillings for 3 years, after both his mother and father die.

James is to be paid 12 pence and his son Thomas will get 3 pounds, to be paid within 5 years of his and Katherine’s death.

In other words, after Thomas and Katherine are both dead, he wants Thomas to be paid 3 pounds within 5 years.

To his beloved with Katherine, he gives her all his movable goods for her life and thereafter they should go to his son Samuel who was named his executor. The will was witnessed by Richard Baker and Philip Baker.

You’ll also notice that in his will he leaves everything to Samuel and not John. Back then in England, they left everything to their eldest son. That means that John and James would have probably died prior to the creation of the will, sometime prior to March 4, 1630.

Thomas Richardson of Standon and Katherine Duxford of West mill were married 24 Aug. 1590. 

Elizabeth y^ daughter to Thomas Richardson baptized 13 Jan. 1593. 
John son to Thomas Richardson baptized 7 Nov. 1596. 
James, y'' sonne of Thomas Richardson baptized 6 Apr. 1600. 
Samuel y® sonne of Thomas Richardson baptized 22 Dec. 1602 [or 1604], 
Margaret ye daughter of Thomas Richardson baptized 19 April 1607. 
Thomas ye sonne of Thomas Richardson baptized 3 July 1608. 

Catherine the wife of Thomas Richardson buryed the x*** of March 1631. 
Thomas Richardson was bui*yed the viii daye of January 1633. 

It would naturally be supposed that the will of Thomas Richardson would 
be found in the Commissary Court of Essex and Hertfordshire, but the 
Archdeaconry Court of Huntingdon, or that portion in the Hitchin Reg- 
istry, had jurisdiction over part of Hertfordshire, and included 77 parishes. 

The original will of Thomas Richardson of West Mill, Herts, found at 
Hitchin, reads : . 

March the 4'^'^ Ano domini 1630. In the name of God Amen I Thomas ) 

Richardson of Westmill in the County of Herts, husbandman, being sick / 

in bodye but of good an perfect memory thanks be to God doe make and 
ordeyne this my laste will in manner and forme following, firste. I bequeath 
my soull unto the hands of God my maker and Redeemer by whose merits 
I only truste to be saved, and my body to be buryed in the i^lace of Chris- 
tian buryall and Touchinge my temporall goods I doe dispose of them as 
followeth. 

First. I gyve unto Katherine my wife duringe the tearme of her natu- 
rall life my littell close of pastm-e called little hunnymeade cont half an 
acre and after her decease I give the same to my sonn Samuell and his 
heyers for ever. 

Item. I give to my sonn John forty^ shillings to be payed to him within 
the space of three yeares next ensueing the decease of me and Katherine 
my now wife by my executor. 

Item. I give to my sonn James Twelve pence. 

Item. I give to my sonn Thomas three pounds to be payed to him with- 
in the space of fyve yeares next ensueing the decease of me and Kathy- 
rine my now wife. 

Item. I gyve unto Katherine my wife all my movable goods to use for 
and during the terme of her life and after her decease I gyve the same 
unto my sonn Samuel whom I doe ordeyne and make my sole executor. 
In Witness whereof I have sett my hand and Seal the daye and yeare 
above sayd. 

Sealed and declared vSig™ Thomas 

in the presence of us [mark] Richardson 

Richard Baker. 

Philip Baker, 
proved 31 July 1634 at Hitchin presented by son Samuel Richardson." 

The three brothers, Ezekiel, Samuel and Thomas Richardson, are known 
as such by the will of Ezekiel, who names the other two as his brothers. 

Ezekiel, evidently the oldest, was the first to come to New England, and 
was a planter in Charlestown in 1630. His departure previous to the 
making of the will, perhaps against his father's wishes, or possibly having 
received his share of his father's small estate, maj' account for the name of 



Ezekiel not appearing in the will. His baptism is not found at "West 
Mill, as are the baptisms of Samuel and Thomas. 

Ezekiel probably came with Winthrop, he and his wife becoming mem- 
bers of the Charlestown church, 27 Aug., 1630. 

Thomas Richardson, baptized at West mill, 3 July, 1608, had wife Mary, 
who joined the Charlestown church, 21 Feb., 1635-6, and he joined, 18 
Feb., 1637-8. 

Samuel presented the will of his father for probate ^t Ilitchin, England, 
31 July, 1634. He had previously married ; and had baptized, at West 
Mill, a son Samuel, 3 July, 1633, and a daughter Elizabeth, 22 May, 1635. 

Samuel Richardson's name does not appear in the Tithe Book of West 
Mill after 1635. Against Over Green, where he (and also his father, 
Thomas) lived, is written " none." It was, therefore, after that date he 
and his brother Thomas sailed for New England, with their families ; and 
we find, on 1 July, 1636, the brothers were on a committee to lay out lots 
of land in Charlestown, for hay. There is no record of the birth or bap- 
tism of a daughter Elizabeth to Samuel in Woburn, but the will of his 
wife Joanna, in 1666, mentions a daughter Elizabeth, who was probably 
the one baptized at West Mill, 22 May, 1635. 

Doubtless the register of the parish of Standon, which is but a few 
miles south of West Mill, would, if it existed, give further particulars of 
the Richardsons, or at least of Thomas who married in 1590 ; but the ear- 
liest entry to be found is 1671. Braughing, just east of West Mill, has 
a register which begins in 1563, but it gives no items of the Richardson 
name. Great and Little Hormead, north-east of West Mill, was the 
home of some of the Wymans in the past, but there are no traces of 
the Richardsons there. Just east of this locality is the border of Essex, 
and there are many of the name in that county, though the name is com- 
mon in aU the counties of England. From Nazing, Essex, about ten miles 
from West Mill, came John Eliot, the apostle, and many of the settlers of 
Roxbury, Mass. 

St. Mary the Virgin Parish Church in Westmill, where Thomas was married and buried has been around for a thousand years. The church still stands to this day.

It has the oldest bell in Hertfordshire, it’s 600 years old and still rings. Below you’ll find a video about the effort to rebuild the roof. Searching for roofing companies near me. Call Overson Roofing in Arizona.

He made a will on 4 Mar 1630/31 at Westmill, Hertfordshire, England.1

Thomas RICHARDSON357, 9G Grandfather. Born abt 1565-70. Buried on 7 Jan
1633/4 in Westmill, Hertfordshire, England. Will dated on 4 Mar 1630/1 at Westmill,
Hertfordshire, England. Will proved on 31 Jul 1634.

According to Threlfall’s GMC50358, “THOMAS RICHARDSON was born about 1565-70. On
24 August 1590 [Threlfall gives this date as 25 August on p. 536] at West Mill, Hertfordshire,
he married Katherine Duxford of that parish. The marriage record states that he was of Standon,
which is the next parish to the south. She was the daughter of Richard and Joan Duxford, and
was born about 1565-70. They settled down in West Mill.

“Katherine was buried 10 March 1630/31 [Threlfall gives this date as 1631/32 on p. 536] at
West Mill. Thomas was buried there 7 January 1633/4. An abstract of his will follows.”

Thomas Richardson’s son Ezekiel had been comprehensively documented in Anderson’s
GMB359 where it is noted that “Samuel Richardson and Thomas Richardson, brothers of
Ezekiel, arrived in New England by 1635; Francis Wyman and John Wyman, sons of Ezekiel
Richardson’s sister Elizabeth, also came to New England [Sarah Hildreth Anc 25-27].”

Thomas Richardson and Katherine Duxford are ancestors to U.S. Presidents Bush, Coolidge,
Hoover (probably), and Pierce,360 and to suffragist Susan B. Anthony.281

Gary Boyd Roberts, Ancestors of American Presidents: First Authoritative Edition, Santa
Clarita, CA: Carl Boyer, 1995 (published in cooperation with the New England Historic
Genealogical Society).

XXXXXXXXXXXXXX
It would naturally be supposed that the will of Thomas Richardson would be found in the Commissary Court of Essex and
Ilertfordshire, but the Archdeaconry Court of lluntingdon. or that portion in the Hitchin Registry, had jurisdiction over part of
Tlertfordshire, and included 77 parishes.
The original will of Thomas Richardson of West Mill, Herts, found at Hitchin, reads:
March the 4th Ano domini 1630. In the name of God Amen I Thomas Richardson of Westmill in the County of Herts,
husbandman, being sick in hodye but of good an perfect memory thanks be to God doe make and ordeyne this my laste will in
manner and forme following, llrste. I bequeath my soul1 auto the hands of God my maker and Redeemer by whose merits I
only truste to be saved. and my body to be buryed in t.he place of Christian buryall and Touchinge my teniporall goods I doe
dispose of them as followeth.
First. I gyve unto Katherine my wife (luringe the tearme of her naturall life my littelI close of pasture called little
hunnymeade cont half an acre and after her decease I give the same to my sonn Samuel] aud his heyers for ever.
Item. I give to my sonn John forty shillings to be payed to him within
the space of three yeares next ensueing the decease of me and Katherine
my now wife by my executor.
Item. I give to my sonn James Twelve pence.
Item. I give to my sonn Thomas three pounds to be payed to him within the space of fyve yeares next ensueing the decease of
me and Kathy-
rifle my now wife.
Item. I gyve unto Katherine my wife all my movable goods to use for and during the terme of her life and after her decease I
gyve the same unto my sonu Samuel whom I doe ordeyne and make my sole executor. In Witness whereof I have sett my hand
and Seal the daye and yeare above sayd.
Sealed and declared Sigm THOMAS
in the presence of us [mark] . RICHARDSON
Richard Baker.
Philip Baker.
proved 81 July 1634 at I-Iitchin presented by son Samuel Richardson.” He was married to Katherine DUXFORD on 13 Jan
1593 in , West Mill, Herts, England. (1288)

http://www.geocities.com/Heartland/Bluffs/2806/d1841.htm

XXXXXXXXXXXX

His father, originally from North Carolina, had moved to Tennesse during his time in the American Civil War. He was in Unit 9 Tennessee Cavalry Company E.

After the war was often he married William’s mother and they began having babies, 6 in all, which is nothing compared to William who would eventually have 10 of his own children.

A few years after William Alexander was born the entire family picked up and moved to Wise, Texas which is where William would spend the rest of his life.

William Alexander Richardson married Ada Mae Sheppard on October 11, 1896, in Wise County, Texas. Together they had at least 10 children who lived.

1. Rubin Nemon Richardson 1898–1960
2. Roy Lee Richardson 1900–1977
3. Bertha Mae Richardson 1902–1991
4. Henry E Richardson 1904–
5. Etta Lorene Richardson 1904–1954
6. Evelyn Nancy Richardson 1906–1954
7. George Elton Richardson 1908–1976
8. Sue Odett Richardson 1911–1987
9. William Dalton Richardson 1913–1971
10. Lawrence Durk Richardson 1916–1995

In 1918 he was 44 years old and he registered for the draft for WWI. That seemed rather old for me so I decided to do some research on why someone of his age would be required to register for the draft.

The US entered WWI on April 6, 1917. On May 18, 1917, Congress passed the Selective Service Act authorizing the draft. At first, it was just males from 21 to 30 that were required to register for military service. However later at the request of the War Department, Congress amended the law in August of 1918 to expand the age range to include all men from 18 to 45.

So basically that meant William Alexander fell within the age range for the draft of WWI, albeit just barely.

I don’t seem to find any records to show that he was actually drafted to fight in the war though.

William Alexander Richardson, a retired farmer, passed away on October 25, 1971. His death certificate from that time indicates that he was a retired farmer, and it was during this process that mortuary fridge installation took place.

You might also notice that on his death certificate it lists his name as William Alex instead of his full name of William Alexander. During his life, he has been known as William Richardson, William Alexander, William Alex,  W.A. Richardson, William A. Richardson, Alexander Richardson, Williams A. Richardson, and A.R. Richardson.

His WW1 voter registration card lists him as William Alexander Richardson, while his death certificate lists him as William Alex. The social security administration lists him as William A. (460-86-8458)

Obituary for William Alexander Richardson

Final rites were held Wednesday, Oct. 27, at 4 p.m. in the Chapel at Hawkins Funeral home for Mr. W.A. Richardson. Mr. Richardson was born Jan. 12, 1874, died Oct 25, 1971. Mr. Joe Dukin, Church of Christ Minister from Allison, Texas, officiated. Mr. Richardson is survived by four sons and two daughters. L. D. Richardson, Paradise, Texas, Pete Richardson, Paradise Texas, George Richardson, Bridgeport, W. D. Richardson, Waurika, Okla., Sue Bollinger, Burbank, California, Bertha Davidson, Brownsville, Texas, and a host of grandchildren and great-grandchildren are the survivors. Interment was in West Side Cemetery, Bridgeport.