Anthony Arnold, I

Anthony Arnold and Bacon’s Rebellion

On 5 Feb 1981, Hazel Arnold MacIvor published a report on the “The Anthony Arnold Research Project” on behalf of The Arnold Family Association of the South. In her introduction, Ms. MacIvor offers the following:

“‘Some years ago the officers had decided that since we had obtained all extant records, both printed and original, that pertained to Anthony Arnold, without discovering either his origin or ancestry, we should authorize some overseas search. We undertook this project in January of 1981 and your editor compiled a notebook of known facts about Anthony Arnold and other contemporary Arnolds (Samuel, Benjamin I and II, Francis, several Williams, Anthony Arnold II, and Henry) that ran to 203 pages. To this, Marian Ledgerwood added nine pages of Thomas and Grace data, which was indexed by your editor. The main thrust of our endeavor at this time is to find Anthony Arnold’s forebears as he is the earliest Arnold in southern records who has known descendants. The data on the other Arnolds was added because it was felt since they were all from the same area in Virginia there might possibly be ties of kinship between them.’ Hazel Arnold MacIvor. Ref: ‘Arnold Family Association of the South’ Vol. XI, no. 2, Mid-Summer Newsletter, 15 June 1981.”

The first item is a letter dated 6 Feb 1981 from Ms. MacIvor to Peter Wilson Coldham, a genealogist in Surrey, England. In her letter, Ms. MacIvor outlines what she hopes Mr. Coldham might achieve:

“The main thrust of your research should be to find the direct ancestors of Anthony Arnold, and where he came from in England, as well as something about his background. In this respect, I have sent you, I believe, all extant records to be found regarding him in Virginia. I have combed the records of pertinent Virginia counties for twelve years. Unfortunately New Kent, King and Queen, King William, Hanover, Caroline and Buckingham Counties’ records, where this line of Arnolds lived, are destroyed, for the most part. In addition, I have searched the colonial records of Virginia on deposit at the Virginia State Archives. While there, I also searched their index to colonial wills in the Canterbury Court of Prerogative, where, as I understand it, wills of Virginians who had properly in both Virginia and England, will be found.

“The results were negative. Several years back, I paid the College of Arms in London to do a preliminary search for Anthony Arnold. The results, in letter form, are enclosed. They were negative.

“We are asked, when hiring an English searcher to find our ancestors, to send as much data as possible about the ancestor in question, others of the same name who lived around him, his associates, etc. This, I have tried to do. I feel some of the Arnoldss in these records, such as Thomas Arnold, with wife Grace, Samuel Arnold (died 1674, New Kent Co.), Edward Arnold (emigrated 1705, in Colonial Land Patents) and John Arnold (died in old Rappahannock Co.) were close relatives.

“From Anthony Arnold’s fiery speech at his “Trial of Life and Death,” 9 March 1677 (N.S.), one gets the notion he was a Protestant – and a Cromwellian to the core. In this respect, I carried on a lengthy correspondence with the British Public Record Office, over a period of several years, trying to ascertain if Anthony Arnold had been listed in any of the rosters of Cromwell’s troops. It was to no avail. It seemed I received replies from a different person each time and replies were confused and unenlightening.”

• * *

“P.S. You will note the works I used in compiling my book. Since 1974, I have accumulated others, some of which I list here:

Coldham, ‘English Estates of American Colonists,’ Vols. I-II (1610-1699; 1700-1799) Crozier, ‘Virginia Heraldica’ Currer-Briggs, ‘Virginia Settlers and English Adventurers’ Greer, ‘Early Virginia Emigrants, 1623-1666’ Hotten, ‘Lists of Emigrants to America, 1600-1700’ Standard, ‘Some Emigrants to Virginia’ Withington, ‘Virginia Gleanings in England’ Waters, ‘Genealogical Gleanings in England’

Ms. MacIvor included a family group sheet for Anthony Arnold, with the following information: Husband – Arnold, Anthony Occupation – Planter and Merchant Church – (Blank) Lived at – New Kent Co. Va. Military Service – Indian Wars, 1676-1677 Born – ca 1635; Place (Blank) Married – ca 1660-1662; Place (Blank) Died – 15 Mar 1676/1677; Place – New Kent Co., Va. Buried at – Prob. New Kent Co., Va. Father – (Blank) Mother – (Blank) Other wives – (Blank) Wife (nee) (blank) All other categories (blank) Children: (in order of Birth) 1. Benjamin (b ca 1663 Prob. New Kent Co. Va. – d ca 1723 King William Co. Va.) Marriage – Anne (no further information given) 2. Anthony (b ca 1665 Prob. New Kent Co. Va. – d ca 1747 Caroline Co. Va.) Marriage – Isabelle (no further information given)

Documents pertaining to Anthony Arnold

• 25 October 1657 - Anthony Arnell (sic), 500 acres, New Kent Co, Pat. Bk. 4, p 105. Beg. on N. E. side of a branch of Chickahominy Swamp, running North by Mary Cosbye. Trans. of 10 persons: John Roberts, Mary Evans, Tho. Kirby, John Dibbin, Wm. Tucker, Mary Rassey, John Holme, Tho. Daniell, Rich. Budworth, Wm. Addriggin(?). Ref: Nugent, “Cavaliers and Pioneers” Vol. 1, p 348.

• 3 May 1665 - Anthony Arnold, 500 acres, Westmoreland Co., Pat. Bk. 5, p 159. Upon the head of CosCos Creek, lying at the head of Robert Yeo’s land. Granted to Thomas Brereton 20 Sept. 1661 and by him deserted. Granted sd. Anold by order of the Council 25 Nov. 1663. The following names appear under this record: Nicholas Browninge, Mary Page, Mary Anderson, Henry Browne, Tho. Eggerly, Wm. Lane, 3 Negroes, Marke Dawson. Ref: Nugent, “Cavaliers and Pioneers” Vol. I, p 446

• 3 May 1665 - Patent of Sir William Berkeley unto Anthony Arnold of 500 acres in Westmoreland County upon the head of Coss Coss Creek lying on the head of Robert Yeoe’s land… into the woods…formerly granted unto Mr. Thomas Brereton by patent 20 7br (Sept.) 1661 and by him deserted…Now granted by order 25 9br (Nov.) 1663 William Berkeley 28 June 1665. Wit. Philip Ludwell 24 Feb 1668 (1669). Recorded. Ref: Dorman, “Westmoreland County, Virginia, Deeds, Patents, etc. 1665-1677,” Part One, pp 42-43.

• 23 November 1665 - Anthony Arnold of New Kent County unto Mr. William Brereton of Northumberland County, Gent. All my interest in this patent. Anthony Arnold Wit. John (x) Page, 24 Feb. 1668 (1669). Recorded. Ref: Dorman, “Westmoreland County, Virginia, Deeds, Patents, etc. 1665-1677,” Part One, p 43.

• 2 October 1668 – Thomas Brereton and Anthony Arnell (Arnold), 1700 acres, New Kent Co. S. side Pamonkey River and part upon branches of Chickahominy Swamp and upon Westover Path behind Rice Hughes and land formerly Capt. Anthony Langstone’s; Pat. Bk. 6, p 191. Adj. John Jackson. 500 acres granted said Arnell 25 Oct. 1657; 1200 acres entered in the office 25 Sept. 1661 and due for transport of 24 persons, named. Ref: Nugent, “Cavaliers and Pioneers” Vol. II, p 49.

• 8 November 1673 – It is ordered that Mr. Anthony Arnold forthwith deliver unto the Monguy (Drammacho Mongy, a chief ruler of the Chickahominy Indians) of the Chickahominy (Indians) all such Roanoak (Indian money), skins, bills and other things which he the said Arnold hath received from the said Monguy and at the next General Court further Enquirey to be made of the death of the Englishman and Indian lately killed and Coll. Abrahall is hereby required to make such Diligent Enquirey into the prmisses as he cann, and to make report to the next Generall Court, where all prsons conserned are to be present. Ref: McIlwaine, “Minutes of the Council and General Court of Colonial Virginia,” p 361

• 3 April 1674 – Whereas it Appears to this Court by oth (sic) that Mr. Anthony Arnold hath most presumptuously disobeyed an order of this Court and a Warrant of Coll. Robt. Abrahall’s sent to the said Arnold by the Governor’s order, it is ordered that Mr. Anthony Arnold be fined 2000 pounds of Tobacco and Caske with costs Sute Als ex which said Tobo is to be for the use of the fort at Yorke. Ref: McIlwaine, “Minutes of the Council and General Court of Colonial Virginia, ” pp 362-363.

• 1 October 1674 – Major Wm. Wyatt hath ordered Against the sheriffe of New Kent County for the non-appearance of Mr. Ambro: Clare and Mr. Anthony Arnold, for what he shall make appeare justly due the next Generall Court, in case he Doe not cause them to then appeare. Ref: McIlwaine, “Minutes of the Council and General Court of Colonial Virginia,” p 386.

• 19 June 1675 – Anthony Arnold having peticoned to this Court for an attachment Against the Estate of Capt. Pickis for a debt of 160 pounds sterling which he claims, it is ordered to be referred to the second day of the next General Court. Ref: McIlwaine, “Minutes of the Council and General Court of Colonial Virginia,” p. 416.

• 5 October 1675 – The Refference that was the Last court betweene Mr. Anthony Arnold and Capt. Pickis is still continued by Reason there is noe shipps come in. Ref: McIlwaine, “Minutes of the Council and General Court of Colonial Virginia,” p. 419.

• 20 January 1676/1677 – Letter of Thomas Notley, Governor of Maryland to Sir William Berkeley, Governor of Virginia: Wiccomonico in Maryland. Rt. Honorable Sir: My last to you of the 18 past. The most considerable affairthat I am at present to acquaint you is about the Sennico and Susquehannock Indians who have had the beginning of December last a small encounter at Jacob Young’s house, the Intelligence came out to me on tuesday last, upon which I have taken ye most effectual care I could at present for the security of Baltimore and Cecill County, and since the whole circumstances would cause my letter to swell to too greate a bulk, I have therefore herewith sent you the originalle letters I received from the head of the Bay relating to it, and likewise copies of my orders and commissions to Hamby and Wells, for their regulation in their jurisdiction, all which these days since I sent open to the Chancelor for his view and approbation, and so ordered him to send them into Anne Arundell County for conveyance upon all which I sent the Chancelor my reflections upon the said Intelligence, my opinion how to proceed, treat with or against all manner of Indians as soon as the Spring approaches, for if wee be not timely in adjudging all matters with them at Spring, we shall be suspicioned by them, and Yr. Ld Shps Province will receive much damage, before we are …. from whence our Mischief proceeds, therefore I shall take all imaginable care to be at peace both with the Sennica and Susquahannock, especially with the Sennica if more repleat with malignancy and Irony than our people were about August last, and they wanted but a Monstrous head to their Monstrous body. But God be thanked wee now enjoy peace, and have greater reason to hope for its continuance than wee have had this twelve months past. For about 20 or 25 days there hath occurred the greatest Revolution in the Virginia Affairs that can possibly be imagined for at the beginning of their Rebellion was grounded on madness and folly and so continued in its whole progress, so the whole has turned again as wonderfully and as swiftly in and submission of all the Chief Rebells to Sir. William Berkeley, to say, Ingram the Titular Generall, who succeeded Bacon and his Lieutenant Generall Watlett (sic) and our Noble Captaine Coll: Bromington, and all their men, and but three Rebells of Note stand out and they but with four men, but they have been during the whole Rebellion, the Bellweathers of unrest, to say, Lawrence, Drummond and Arnold, and they suddainely expected to be taken either dead or alive, so that now Sir. Wm. Berkeley is once more established in his government but for how long I know not … I fear the warm weather when it comes may produce another swarm and may have as venomous stings as the late fracas had, especially if nothing from the King is done with some persons to settle affaires in Virginia in better order than I imagine those that are more in power there can doe. There must be an alteration though not of government yet in the government. New men must be put in power, the old ones will never agree with ye common people, and if that not be done, His Majestie, in my opinion, will never find a well settled government in that colony. I shall forbear to particularize any further as to Virginia affairs. The Mast of this shipp will give a more particular account than I can now make. Wee are all in a mase that no Kings shipp nor other shipps are arrived from London since Bunch (?) and 2 or 3 Londoners, which came into Virginia about the same time with him; and I cannot imagine the reason of the long stay of the shipps expected. I have been the more copious that yr Ldsp may be able to inform his Mastie of the State of Affairs, for I suppose this ship is the first for London this year, and I do believe she will carry no letters from Sir W. Berkeley Gov. Thos: Norley Gov. of Maryland. Ref: “British Public Records Office, London, “America and West Indies Original Correspondence, Colonial Office,” Series One, Vol. 39, 3211, pp. 20.

• 21 January 1676/1677 – Letter of Sir William Berkeley to Major Robert Beverley: Wrote that Drummond had been hanged and that James Crewes “Bacon’s Parasite” had been captured. In a few days he hoped to take Richard Lawrence, Thomas Whaley, and Anthony Arnold, “the chiefe remaining villains.” Ref: Hening, “Statutes” Vol. III, p 569.

• 29 February 1676/1677 – Anthony Arnold “caught in open rebellion.” Ref: Hening, “Statutes” Vol. II, p 370. (N.B. – I have not seen this reference. It was sent to me by a correspondent. It seems to disagree with Gov. Berkeley’s proclamation where he states Anthony Arnold is “now in prison” on 8 February 1677 (N.S.))

• 9 March 1676/1677 – A Court at Green Spring the 9th day of March 1676/7. Present: Sir William Berkeley Knt. Governor, etc., Herbert Jeffries, Esq., Sir Jno. Berry Knt., ffra (sic) Morryson, Esq., His Majesties Commissioners, Coll. Nathaniel Bacon, Coll. Phell Ludwell, depty Secr Coll Wm. Cole. Anthony Arnold being convicted for divers Rebellions Treasons and other misdemeanors by him committed against his Majestie The Grand Jury brought in their Virdict Billa Vera and the Jury of Life and death brought in their Virdict Guilty According to the indictment. Sentence of death therefore paste upon him According to Forme 15th Instant. Ref: McIlwaine, “Minutes of the Council and General Court of Colonial Virginia,” pp. 457, 530.

When Anthony Arnold, who was one of the sturdiest supporters of the rebellion, was brought into Court, he boldly defended the right of the people to resist oppression. “It is well known that I have no kindness for Kings,” he told the Court. “They have no rights but what they got by conquest and the sword, and he that can by force of the sword deprive them of it has as good and just a title to it as the King himself. If the King should deny to do me right I would make no more to sheathe my sword in this heart or bowels than of my mortal enemies.” The Court was sorry that the country was not “capable of executing the sentence peculiar to traitors according to the laws and customs of England.” This was to hang the victim for several minutes, cut him down while still alive, rip him open, cut off his head, and then quarter him. So they contended themselves with hanging him in chains, “to be a more remarkable example than the rest.” Ref: Wertenbaker, “Bacon’s Rebellion 1676,” pp. 51-52. British Public Record Office, London, “Colonial Office,” Series Five, 1371, p 152.

Berkeley seems to have “overawed or intimidated the Commissioners for it was they had advised ARNOLD be hanged in his own country.” Ref: Morton, “Colonial Virginia,” Vol. 1, pp 279, 291.

• 7 April 1677 - Petition of the four poor distressed orphans of Anthony Arnold: To the Commissioners for Virginia – For restitution of their father’s small estate, who was executed for being concerned in Bacon’s Rebellion.

To the Right Honourable Herbert Jeffries, Esq. Governor and Capt. Generall of Virginia and His Majestie’s Honourable Commissioners The humble petition of the four poore distressed orphans of Anthony Arnold Most Humbly Showeth, That your poore petitioners ffather (having been by the spurious though false pretensions of Nathaniel Bacon Junior) seduced into this late Rebellion being arraigned and found guilty was executed for same and his estate (falling by Order of law) Unto our Sovereign Lord the King, hath left your poore distressed petitioners destitute of maintenance and Relief, but such as the charity of some persons moved with the distressedness of our sad and deplorable conditions hath bestowed upon us. However it may please your honor (your petitioners tender and miserable condition considered) toe nothing doubt but that his Most sacred Majestie, out of his grace and accustomed pitty will favourably allow your honours to charitably act in bestowing on your poor petitioners that small estate for their maintainence and education , doth it please God Almighty of his mercy and goodness to Lend unto their ffather soe therefore most humbly inplore your honours clemency and goodness for their Relief in the Premesis. And your poore petitioners shall as in our bond ever pray for your Honours. Ref: “Sainsbury Abstracts,” Vol. XVI, 1676-1677, p. 237. (“Colonial Papers,” 1 page)

• 17 April 1677 – Inventory of the Estate of Anthony Arnold. (Note reference to a sister.)

According to the Order of the Rt. Honorable Sir. Wm. Berkeley. His Reall Estate: A plantation of 1200 acres of Indifferent good land with ordinary Virginia housing upon it together with an under shott mill upon the sd. land: Valued at (blank in original document); 300 acres of Land now laying upon hoarcock Swamp: good land an indifferent good orchard but very bad housing – it was purchased by Arnold of John Pigg; 400 acres of Land upon Timber bounded: being good land and very much good timber upon it; 500 acres of Land bought by Arnold of Elias Downs being at the head of Pamunkey Neck: bad land: and no buildings; 600 acres of land on north side of Mattapony River joining upon meadows and purchased of Coll: Clayborn. His Personall Estate: 8 bus. of corn in the grist mill, 8 barrows and spotted sows of 3 years and upwards, 17 swine of one years old and upwards, 3 breeding sows, 20 large pigs or young shoats in all – 48 head. Horses: good saddle horse in the hands of Coll: Clayborn, good breeding mare to house, old cart horse in the hands of John Inge – 3. Cattle: Cows, yearling, 1 young calves – 12 head. 1 old cart with Iron banded wheels, 1 harness for horse: with Capt. Clayborn; 1 gunn, 2 Iron potts – this was in hands of Tho. Miller; old fether bed, very good feth: bed, good worsted rugg – these was in the hands of Mr. John Clayborn; 6 Redd Cushion Chairs. 1 Iron pott of 6 gall., 1 great (?) (?) about 40 gall., 1 mayd for about 3 year of serve - these things was caryed away by Dunbar; 1 Taylor: 1 yr to serve, 1 gold ring worth 30 lb. sterling which by the memory of severall bought persons belongs to Arnold’s sister – these was in the hands of Capt. Jacob Lumpkin; The half of a sloop with John Babb: who bought the sd. halfe of Anold: and hath not paid for it yet. There is divers Papers, bills, bonds and pattents with other writings belonging to Anth: Arnold in the hands of Capt. Jacob Lumpkin. Ref: “Colonial Papers General Series America and West Indies” - An Accot. Of the Estate of Anthony Arnold: who was tryed and condemned for Rebellion and Treason and hung in chains. Transcribed from the Original Document on deposit at the British Public Record Office. CO (Colonial Office) 5/1371 (Part 2) 3211 pp. 475- 476.

• 17 October 1677 – Inventories of Delinquint Estates of Va. prefixed by a list of debts claimed by divers persons out of the estates contained in this book with mem. signed by Sir John Barry and Fran. Moryson that on his Maj. determination concerning the disposal of said estates herein set down Lieut. Col. George Jordon and Major Theophillis Hone, employed by H. M. Commiss: to report what estates have been seized as forfeited to his Majesty they may be considered out of the said Estate for their great trouble. The following are the names of the persons whose estates are involved. Will Hunt, Giles Bland, Robt. Joanes, Col. Jas. Crewes, Nath. Bacon, Wm. Cookson, Wm. Cromaer (?), John Greene, John. Hes., Capt. Wm. Carver, Wm. Rooking, Tho. Hall, Tho. Willforde, Antho. Arnold, Henry Page, Tho. Hunsford, Tho. Whaley, Edmund Cheesman. Ref: “Virginia Magazine of History,” Vol. 22, p 366, Colonial Entry Blank No. 81, pp 429-495.

• 5 March 1683/84 – Rappahannock Co. Court held. Col. John Stone, Capt. Geo. Taylor, Mr. Jas. Harrison, Mr. Wm. Slaughter – Justices. Prelude: To his Excellency Francis Lord Howard, Baron of Effinghim, his Maties Liet. etc etc; Edmd. Jennings his Matyes Attorney Genll, Humbly Sheweth… 1685 Ed. Jennings, Atty Genl brings suit vs. one Coventon indebted to one Arnold, who had been executed for high treason. “That Wm. Coventon became indebted unto Anthony Arnold, the Sum of 700 lbs Tob. and Cask, as by his bill, bearing date the 12th day of Nov. 1672, may appeare and also the sum of 2,000 lbs of tobacco and Cask as by another bill, bearing date ye 14th day of Nov. 1672, may also appeare and whereas the sd Arnold was attainted, and executed for high treason, by wc (sic) his Estate, both reall and p’sonall, became forfeited to his most sacred matye, and ye said Coventon having never satisyed or payd the sd sume to the sd Arnold before his attainder, or att any time since, and still refusing foe to doe, tho often required.” Ref: Swem, “Virginia Historical Index” 1 C 14, 18-19.

• 17 November 1683 – Anthony Arnold executed for high treason. One Anthony Arnold executed for high treason and one Covington being indebted to him in a certain amount of Tobacco and Cask, judgment prayed against the latter for this debt as confiscated to the Crown etc; also case of one Howerton, in like circumstances. By Edmd Jenning, Atty. General. Ref: Swem, “Virginia Historical Index,” 1C14.

• 10 February 1676/1677 – Proclamation of Pardon by Gov. Sir William Berkeley to participants in the late rebellion, certain persons excepted: Whereas Nathaniell Bacon Junior late of this colonie wth divers others his aides abettors adherents and complices being almost all of them persons of mean and desperate fortunes and lately in a most traitorous and rebellious maner did maintaine and prosecute a horrid and most wicked warre within this his Magestie Colonie against his most sacred Majesty and me his Majests Governor which Rebellion was by the said Bacon and his companies violently carried on and prosecuted to the Murther and death of many of his Majesties Leige people, the plunder and utter ruin of severall considerable estates, burning the Church, Statehouse and all other houses in James City and several houses in other parts of the country and by imposing divers unlawful oaths upon the people by which traitorous and rebellious practices the said Nathaniell Bacon and all persons who have born arms under him or willingly joined with or assisted him in his said Wicked rebellion are guilty of high treason and are liable to such paines penalties and forfeitures as the lawes have appointed and ordained for persons guilty of high treason – yet nevertheless considering that upon my former proclamations severall persons did within the times thereby limited came in and returned to their allegiance and that by the great blessing of Almightly God upon the worthy Gentlemen and others who willingly and faithfully served under me many of the remaining rebells were suppressed scared and quieted and some of the most notorious Rebells justly condemned and executed which so discouraged the rest that upon the death of that grand rebel Nath. Bacon Junior Joseph Ingram who by the Rabble was made their Generall haveing a sense of their former defection and a certainty of their utter ruine if they persisted in their rebellious practices did together with persons then in arms with them sue for accept of pardon Surrender their arms and take his Majesties countrey, that the proclamacon of pardon shall not extend to discharge the lands, Tenements, Goods, Chattles, rights, or other herediments of the said Nathan Bacon, Junior, Will Hunt Senior, and Edmund Chessman who all died in the actuall prosecution of the said Rebellion any of them Nor of the Estates reall or personall of Tho. Hansford, Wm. Drummond, Tho. Wilsford, Wm. Carver, John Farloe, John Johnson, Tho. Young, James Wilson, Henry Sage, Tho. Hall, John Baptista a Frenchman, James Crews, Will Cookson and John Digbie who are condemned and executed for their Rebellion and treason – Provided alsoe that this proclamation shall not extend to the pardon of Richard Lawrence, Tho. Whaley, Robt. Jones, John Sturdivant, Thomas Blayton, John Jenings, Robert Holden, Jno. Phelps, Thomas Matthews, Robert Spring, Stephen Tarleton and Peter Adams being the most active prosecutors ayders and abettors of ye said Rebellion – Nor of any of their estates real or personall but that they and every of them be brought to Legall Tryall and reserved to such paines penalties and forfeitures as shall be justly brought upon every or any of them – Neither shall this proclamation extend to the pardon of Gyles Bland, Thomas Goodrich, Anth: Arnold, John Rutherford, Notorious Rebells being now in prison nor to any other person or persons in prison for the said Rebellion or under bond for their appearance upon Sumons who are also reserved to such paines penalties and forfeitures as shall be agreeable to law and justice nor to John West or John Turner who being legally condemned for Rebellion and Treason made their escapes by breaking prison whom all his Majestys good subjects are required to secure and bring before me Alsoe excepted from this proclamation of pardon Coll. Thomas Swanne, Coll. Thomas Beall and Thomas Bowler three of the Councill of Virginia Coll. Wm. Kendall, Major John West, Capt. Charles Scarburgh, James Turner and those persons who administered and soliticitously advised the taking of Bacon’s unlawfull pernitious and Rebellious Oathes who have been encouragers of and connivers at the said unparalel’d Rebellion and have used most scandalous and affrontive language tending to the dishonor of his most Sacred Majesty and me his governor published declared uttered and done by them to the great and apparent support and heightening of the said Rebellion. But that they and every of them and also Sara the wife and Attorney of Thomas Grendon who by her lying and scandalous reports was the first great encourager and setter on of the ignorant vulgar and hath ever since been an active aider assistor and abettor of ye Rebels be left and refer’d to the Tryall examination and determination of the Rt. Honourable the Commissioners sent into Virginia by his Most sacred Majesty And I doe hereby further publish and declare that all and every person and persons except as is before excepted shall have his and their full free and absolute pardon and indempity in maner and form before mentioned and expresl. But be it further provided that the benefit of his Majesties Most gratious declaration nor of this my proclamation thereupon grounded neither doth nor shall extend to acquitt or discharge any person or persons from making restitution of and for all such rents, debts, Horses, Mares, Cattle, Sheep or other goods or also for any burnings and other devastations which by themselves or any pretended power from the said rebels or any of them have been taken or done but that the owners or proprietors may bring his and their overall and respective actions and suites at law or in equitie for recovery therein – And so God grant that his most sacred Majesties Royall and Gratious Proclamacons upon which this pardon is especially grounded may have the desired effect in continuing this whole country in their allegiance to his Majesty and duety to me his Governor And let every good subject pray for the long health and continued prosperity of our most gracious and mercifull Soveraigne and laying hold upon his great clemencie soe use the same as not to make it any encouragement to future Rebellion – that soe this country may return to its former happiness and tranquillitie. Amen. Given under my hand at Green Spring this Eighth day of February 1676 And in the 29th year of the Raigne of King Charles the Second. William Berkeley Febb. Ye tenth 1676/7. God Save the King. Ref: “State Papers, Colonial Virginia” Vol. 60, p 19.

Yarbrough’s or Arnold/Arnall’s Ferry

“One of the most fertile farms between Walkerton (King and Queen Co. VA) and Aylett (King William Co. VA) was one called “Presqu’Isle.” It was given the name by the formation of and “almost island” at the point where the river and a small stream known by the name of Spirit Run nearly surround the tract of land. Presqu’Isle” is most often referred to as belonging to Joseph Temple, acquired by his marriage with Ann Arnold daughter of Benjamin Arnold. ere was Arnold’s Ferry sometimes called Yarbrough’s or Arnall’s.

“The prologue to its operation adds a zest to its story unique from all other ferry histories, for the 17th century planter on whose land the ferry was ultimately set up, had an aura about him that would excite the imagination of any student of Virginia’s colonial history. Today’s youth would love him!

“One of the earliest patentees of land along the York and its tributaries (the Mattapony and Pamunkey were thought for a long time to be only branches of the York) was a man named Anthony Arnold. Where he came from and what was his old-world background, is not known. He was certainly an individualist and a law unto himself. His ideas of a man’s right to his own personal freedom were one hundred years ahead of his time. Had he lived in 1776 instead of 1676 he would now be counted among our great patriots. As it is, few people have heard of him. His persistent cantankerousness was a headache to the Honourable Council. The bold way in which he spoke of Kings and Majesties; his utter disregard for Court Orders and Fines made him a “natural recruit” for Nathaniel Bacon’s Rebellion, and he became one of its more ardent supporters.

“Upon the failure of that movement he was one of the first to feel the vengeful wrath of Governor Berkeley. On March 9, 1677, twenty-five men were tried and on the 15th all twenty-five were executed. Arnold was one of these and the story is that he was hanged in chains from a mulberry tree near today’s Second and Main Streets in West Point (King William Co. VA).

“There are ample grounds for believing that this protester and rebel was the father of Benjamin Arnold of “Presqu’Isle.” Beyond doubt certain lands which had been patented by Anthony Arnold and upon his execution confiscated, were later restored to Benjamin Arnold, though nowhere is he actually stated to have been the son of the condemned man.

“For many years Arnold’s Ferry was the only crossing place in this part of our county over to King William. No termination date for its operation was discovered but it must have ceased to run sometime before 1786, when Philip Aylett petitioned for a ferry on his land because of the inconvenience people in that section ‘must suffer for want of a ferry.’ A 1727 map proves that Arnold’s Ferry was operating then and may well have continued past the middle of the century, going by the name of Temple’s Ferry, after 1748. (Notes from the collection of the late Elizabeth Hawes Ryland revealed much of this information) Ref: “The Bulletin of the King and Queen County Historical Society of Virginia,” No. 31, July 1971. “

Hillsborough, Home of Anthony Arnold

“On a high bank overlooking two curves in the picturesque Mattaponi River stands “Hillsborough,” (King and Queen Co. VA) said to have been built by Col. Humphrey Hill. Succeeding generations of his descendents have lived in this house and are still living there. The place stands as a symbol of the continuity in American life and the deep roots of Virginia families.

“As there were no good roads inland, the Mattaponi River was the highway in the early years of “Hillsborough,” the house must have looked upon a busy scene when the traffic from four large estates was in full view. “Ricahock,” the home of Col. Larkin Smith, was in the bend down the river; and on the next point was “Mantua,” which can been seen in a mile-wide view across the water and marshes. On the opposite side of the river were Horse Landing and Woodberry in King William County. In addition, there passed on the river the trade from the warehouses at Walkerton, Aylett and Todd’s Landing; the pig-iron from “The Forge,” and loadings from landings as far up as the present number one Highway in Caroline County. Vessels were heavily loaded at these places with tobacco and grain, and they returned lightly loaded with manufactured articles, but weighted with the ballast rocks which can be found on the shores of all the rivers of Tidewater Virginia. There were enough of these rocks at “Hillsborough” to build the foundation of a large tobacco barn, and a rock wharf that can still be seen on low tide.

The house, fifty-two by thirty feet, is two stories high, and has weather boarding front and back, and brick ends. There is a cornice with square modillions and delicate dentils. Four tall chimneys rise, two on each side, above the hipped roof, unbroken by dormers. There are nine windows and a doorway front and back. A basement is under the entire house, whose doors are wide enough for a tobacco hogshead to roll through. There are four arched fireplaces, but only one has a flue passing upward from the arch.

The entrance from the land side is now used as the main entrance, and in the summer one can look through the hall, across the lawn, and over the crepe myrtle bushes that frame a view of the river. A beautiful black walnut stairway rises from the river entrance, and the hall has a pine dado five feet high, with the original paint still on it. Four rooms open from this center hall. With minor changes, the house stands today as it was built.

The earliest recorded history of this place is found in a patent issued to Edward Digges, April 18, 1653. From a study made by Dr. M. C. Harris of the records of this period, it is evident that Anthony Arnold who was one of the followers of Nathaniel Bacon, lived here before 1665. He was captured by the forces under Gov. Berkeley, and hung (sic) in chains from a mulberry tree in West Point, Virginia. In the public records office in Washington there is a copy of a petition from the four distressed orphans of Anthony Arnold to the Commissioners, in 1677; asking for restitution of their deceased father’s estate, who was executed for being concerned in Bacon’s Rebellion. The inventory of the estate of Anthony Arnold includes this: A plantation of 2,000 acres of indifferent good land with ordinary Virginia housing upon it, together with an undershott mill upon sd land. 300 acres of land on creek, indifferent good orchard, but very bad housing, it was purchased by Anold of John Pigge. 600 acres of land upon north side of Mattaponi River, joining Mode’s purchase of Col. William Claybourne.

On April 23, 1688, Anthony Arnold’s son, Benjamin Arnold, was issued a patent 1754 acres of land in New Kent County, upon the north side of Mattaponi River: formerly granted to Capt. Taylor, and sold to Anthony Arnold, decd. Originally 1050 acres – a resident of 704 acres taken up for transportation of 15 persons named --.

From the description of the boundaries in this patent, it is evident that this is the area that is now “Mantua,” “Ricahook,” “Hillsborough,” “Claymount,” and “Loudon” farms. The “undershott mill” stood where the road crosses Garnett’s Mill Swamp at “Mantua.”

The landing at “Hillsborough,” which is just up the river from the house site, is evidence that this is the original site of this plantation. It is near the center of this area; up the river there is marsh land, and down the river, the banks are very high, and there is no suitable approach to the river for a landing. There is a deep, wide passage through the islands in the middle of the river to Horse Landing on the King William side.

Benjamin Arnold lived at this place and it was here that the disturbance arose over the toast to the King and Queen which Jacob Lumpkin refused to drink in 1691. There are several petitions to the General Assembly from the Chickahominy Indians in connection with this land, and it was called “Rickahock Land.”

The history of this area is in various fragments for the next thity years, but circumstances indicate that it belonged to the Baylors after 1700. They had an extensive shipping business in this neighborhood at that time. When the Knights of the Golden Horseshoe returned with the Governor from the mountains in 1716, they stopped at Baylor’s on the Mattaponi and spent the night. The next day, they crossed the river and went to church in King William County. On the Jefferson-Frye map of 1751 we see “Mantua,” “Ricahock” and “Hillsborough” located as they are today. Since historical material is being circulated more freely, it is hoped that some day these fragments can be put with additional material to complete the story.

“Hillsborough,” of course, gets its name from Humphrey Hill, and it is with this name that the house has always been closely associated. About two hundred and fifty years ago he came to Virginia as an agent for Humphrey Bell and Co. of London. The son of Thomas Hill and Edith (Bell) Hill, of London, England, he was born in 1706 and was “a blue coat boy of Christ Church Hospital School, where the record of his matriculation is still preserved.” He lived first at Hobbe’s Hole, which is now Tappahannock; then in King and Queen County and in King William County, before settling permanently at “Hillsborough.”

He married Frances Baylor, daughter of Col. Robert Baylor, and it is probable that through his connection he acquired this property. The brick store house which still stands at “Hillsborough” is doubtless the one used by Humphrey Hill in storing the cargoes of his own incoming vessels. Ref: “The Bulletin of the King and Queen County Historical Society,” No. 2, Jan. 1957.

The Struggle Against Tyranny - 1676 to 1691

Nathaniel Bacon, kinsman of the councilor of that name, had been in the colony only two years. He owned lands along the James River at the Curles. In April 1676 he was haled (sic) as a leader by the angered colonists along the Appomattox and they enlisted to serve under him in a campaign against the Indians. When the colonists had signed a circular enlistment so that no one could be singled out as a ring leader, Bacon “crossed to New Kent to list the people thereabout as it was a section ripe for rebellion.” This section of New Kent was Saint Stephen’s Parish. Colonel Thomas Goodrich, Thomas Hall, clerk of the county, and Anthony Arnold, associate of Colonel Brewerton, were among the leaders who joined Bacon. The evidence is that most of the colonists of Saint Stephen’s also joined with these leaders although many of the large absentee landlords frowned on Bacon’s methods. The Pamunkey, Mattaponi, and Chickahominy Indians assembled from their scattered villages and took refuse (sic) in the Mattaponi town. Bacon and Goodrich judged this position too strong to be taken.

Bacon returned to the James, and successfully led his expedition against the Susquehannocks and the Occoneechee Indians. He then found that he had been declared a rebel by Berkeley but also that the Governor had ordered an election of a new House of Burgesses. Bacon was elected Burgess in spite of the proclamation against him. He went to Jamestown and was pardoned. Suspicious of Berkeley’s sincerity, Bacon returned to the James and collected his followers and moved on Jamestown. Bacon now controlled the Assembly and by June 26 the Burgesses passed laws liberalizing elections and correcting some conditions and commissioned Bacon the commander of the Forces.

During May and June events had moved rapidly in Saint Stephen’s Parish. Berkeley sent the elderly Colonel Claiborne to treat with the Indians at the Mattaponi town. The Indian Queen refused to leave the “fort” saying that Berkeley could not care for himself let alone protect her people. At this conference the incident occurred noted by Robert Beverly as illustrating the stern discipline among the Indian tribes. As one of the chiefs was speaking , “One of his attendants presumed to interrupt him, which he resented as the most unpardonable affront that could be offered him, and therefore he instantly took his tomahawk from his girdle and split the fellow’s head for his presumption. The poor fellow dying immediately upon the spot, he commanded some of his men to carry him out and went on again with his speech where he left off as unconcern’d as if nothing had happened.”

This parley with the Indians gained nothing and between June 20-25 “eight colonists were killed on the York,” apparently in upper Saint Stephen’s. This brought on the actual fighting among the colonists of “Bacon’s Rebellion.”

Bacon ordered a mobilization of the colonists on June 26 and sent his officers into Gloucester to raise the militia and gather supplies. He himself immediately left Jamestown and moved into New Kent, probably with his headquarters at Fort Mattaponi or Mantapike, to await troops and supplies. Berkeley then left Jamestown and moved into Gloucester where the large landowners had resisted Bacon’s impressments of their servants and horses. Here Berkeley stated that Bacon had no commission and that he was a rebel; and Berkeley took command of the militia. Two colonial forces were arrayed against each other, Bacon on the upper Mattaponi and Berkeley in Gloucester. Bacon moved against Berkeley, moving down the old Indian trail. In Gloucester the body of the people refused to serve with Berkeley and he fled across the Bay, many of the large landowners with him. This occurred in July. At about this time there was a skirmish between some of Bacon’s people and some of Berkeley’s at the present site of Miller’s Tavern.

With Berkeley in flight, Bacon now called for a convention to be held in the Middle Plantation (Williamsburg) on August 3 in order that he should have some authority for his actions. A “Declaration of the People” was prepared and the colonists agreed to oppose any British troops until Bacon’s case was heard. Bacon organized the peninsulars between the James and York and York and Rappahannock. John Hansford, son of a patentee near Mantapike and step-son of Edward Lockey of “Tower Hill,” was commissioned a Colonel and placed in command at Jamestown. Bacon sent his single large ship with 250 of his men against Berkeley on the Eastern shore. This was a serious mistake as by a ruse Berkeley’s forces captured the ship and the troops of Bacon, and thus deprived the Baconites of any sea power. Berkeley immediately sent advices to England of the rebellion.

In late August there was another raid by the King and Queen Indians and two colonists were reported killed. Bacon moved in force against the Indian town which was described as “On a piece of champion ground, surrounded on three sides with swamps and with a dense growth of small oke saplings, chinkapin bushes and grape vines.”

This attack was successful and forty-five Indian warriors were captured. The Pamunkey queen made her escape. Her “old nurse” was killed somewhere between Chapel Hill Creek and the head of the Dragon by a colonist striking her on the head. The Queen and a young boy “wandered” for fourteen days in the swamps of the upper Dragon. While Bacon was reducing this Indian fort in King and Queen, Berkeley had assembled 200 men on the Eastern Shore and embarked them on the guardship and the ship captured from Bacon’s officers and in small sloops. At Elizabeth City he was joined by 100 men and with this force sailed up the James River and on September 8 retook Jamestown.

Bacon’s force in Saint Stephen’s Parish had been reduced to 136 men. He had commissioned Goodrich a General and given to him the task of bringing the Northern Neck and the northern part of the Colony under control of the Bacon faction. When Bacon learned of the loss of Jamestown he marched south with his small force and took with them the 45 captured Indians. It is probably that he crossed the Mattaponi at Mantapike. On his march south, many planters joined him and on September 10 or 11 his small force was in front of Berkeley at Jamestown. Here Bacon entrenched his soldiers, the first recorded use of such defenses by the English in the New World. While his men were “digging in,” Bacon protected them from fire by placing in front of his position Mistresses John Page, Thomas Ballard, James Bray, Nathan Bacon (wife of his cousin), and Otho Thorpe. Two of these ladies were wives of landowners of Stratton Major Parish who had remained with Berkeley. On September 15 Berkeley attempted to attack Bacon but his troops would not advance and on September 17 Berkeley withdrew to his ships and that night Bacon burned Jamestown.

After his victory at Jamestown, the people south of the James proclaimed Bacon in “great multitudes.” However news from the north of the colony was less favorable and Bacon learned that Colonel Giles Brent, of Stafford County, was moving southward with the militia from north of the Rappahannock. Bacon crossed into Gloucester to get men from that county to meet this threat. At first they declined to take the oath to support him if British troops came to the colony but then acceeded and Bacon moved north again through King and Queen to meet Brent. As Brent’s forces drew near to battle, the colonists under Brent deserted their leader for Bacon. With this threat overcome, Bacon marched back down the Indian trail. Here at Major Thomas Pate’s house on the Poropotank he was taken ill. In his fever he was “inquiring ever and anon after the arrival of frigates and soldiers from England.” He died on October 26, 1676.

Joseph Ingram succeeded Bacon as commander of the military forces while Drummond and Lawrence continued as the civil leaders of the revolutionists. Ingram faced the problem of defending the Tidewater against invasion from the Eastern Shore and from England. His headquarters were at Brick House, seat of the court of New Kent, and his main force of some 400, including 80 negroes, were at Captain West’s house at West Point. His center of resistance was along the York River with Captain Read’s at Yorktown a fort commanded by Colonel Hansford, and at Nathaniel Bacon’s (the councillor) a fort commanded by Major Whaley. His field force of “horse and foot” was under the command of Lt. General Gregory Wakelett and was in Stratton Major Parish. Along the James River two houses, including Governor Berkeley’s “Green Springs,” were fortified. General Goodrich was in charge of all operations along the Rappahannock and the Northern Neck.

In November, Berkeley, knowing that British troops were on the way, took the offensive. His first blow was at Read house fort commanded by young Hansford. Major Robert Beverley commanded Berkeley’s forces and captured this outpost. Berkeley then moved up the James River and occupied Jamestown. The men of Gloucester were now raised by Major Lawrence Smith and those of Middlesex by Sir Henry Chicheley and these two forces advanced into lower King and Queen. In two battles, the first in King and Queen, General Wakelett defeated both the force of Major Smith and the troops of Chicheley. King and Queen, New Kent, and lower King William were the lands that were now furnishing the supplies for the Bacon forces.

Captain Grantham, a British sea captain, was commissioned by Governor Berkeley to treat with the revolutionists and to tell them of the expected arrival of the British troops. Amnesty was promised to all save Drummond and Lawrence. Ingram accepted these terms first and was then followed by Wakelett who disbanded his forces in Stratton Major. Drummond was captured in the swamps of the Chickahominy.

(One page of text missing from MacIvor report)

…Pigg’s and by Peck Hill’ and a few years later added 1770 acres in King William, the present “Presque Isle” and established ARNOLD’s Ferry. Robert Jones recovered his patent for 250 acres near the Brewerton lands.

Three other events influenced King and Queen history. Troops of the British regiment that arrived were quartered at Fort Mattaponi on the site of present Walkerton; in 1678 a new Fort Mattaponi was built at the head of the river by the Councillor Nathaniel Bacon and the troops moved there under the command of the King and Queen planter, George Lyddal; a treaty was made with the Pamunkey Indians on May 29, 1677, at Middle Plantation. By this treaty the Pamunkey and Mattaponi tribes were given lands on Pamunkey Neck and moved from the upper Mattaponi. This treaty remains in effect until this day. The Chickahominies and some of the Mattaponis chose to remain on their former fields and their descendants are the Indians in the northwestern part of the County. Ref: “A True Relation of the History of King and Queen County in Virginia 1607-1790.” Published by the County Committee in connection with the celebration of Virginia’s 350th Anniversary. 1957.

Our Late Troubles - 1676

To Mr. C. H. at Yardley in Northamptonshire. Sir. I haveing seene yours directed to (text missing) and considering that you cannot have your desires satisfied that way, for the forementioned reasons, I have by his permition, adventured to send you this briefe acount, of those affaires, so far as I have bin informed.

The Susquehanians and Marylanders of friendes being ingaged enimyes (as hath by former letter bin hinted to you) and that the Indians being ressalutely bent not to forsake there forte; it came to this pointe, yt the Marylanders were obliged (findeing themselves too weake to do the worke themselves) to suplycate (too some granted) aide of the Verginians, put under the conduct of one Collonel Washington (him whom you have sometimes seene at your howse) who being joyned with the Marylanders, invests the Indians in there forte, with a neglegent siege; upon which the enimye made severall salleys, with as many losses to the beseegers; and at last gave them the opertunity to disart the Fort, after that the English had (contrary to ye law of arms) beate out the Braines of 6 grate men sent out to treate a peace: an action of ill consequence, as it proved after. For the Indians having in the darke, slipt through the Legure, and in there passage knock’d 10 of the beseigers on the head, which they found fast a-sleep, leaving the rest to prosecute the Seige, (as Scoging’s Wife brooding the Eggs which the Fox had suck’d) they resolved to imploy there liberty in avenging there Commissionres blood, which they speedily effected in the death of sixty inosscent soules, and then send in there Remonstrance to the Governour, in justification of the fact, with this expostulation annext: Demanding what it was moved him to take up arms against them, his professed friends, in the behalfe of the Marylanders, there avowed enimyes. Declaring there sorow to see the Verginians, of friends to becom such violent enimies as to persue the Chase …

(One page of text missing from MacIvor report)

… 30 or 40 miles to find Bakon out, but not knowing which way he was gon, he dismisseth his army, retireing himself and councell, to James Towne, there to be redy for the assembly, which was now upon the point of meeting: Whither Bacon some few days after his return hom from his Indian march, repared to render an account of his servis; for which himself and most of those with him in the expedition, were imprissoned; from whence they were freed by judgment in court upon Bacon’s tryall, himself readmitted into the councell and promised a commission the Monday following (this was on the Saturday) against the Indians; with which deluded, he smothers his resentments, and beggs leave to visit his Lady (now sick, as he pretended) which granted, hee returnes to Towne at the head of 4 or 5 hundred men, well Arm’d: reassumes his demands for a commission. Which, after som howers strugling with the Governour, being obtained, according to his desire, hee takes order for the countreyes security, against the attemps of sculking Indians; fills up his numbers and provissiones, according to the gage of his commission; and so once more advanceth against the Indians, who heareing of his approaches, calls in their Runers and scouts, be taking themselves to there subterfuges and lurking holes. The General (for so he was now denominated) had not reach’d the head of York River, but that a Post overtakes him, and informes, that Sr. W. B. was a raiseing the Traine-bands in Glocester, with an intent, eather to fall into his reare, or otherways to cutt him off when he should return wery and spent from his Indians servis. This strange newes put him, and those with him, shrodly to there Trumps, beleiveing that a few such Deales or shufles (call them which you will) might quickly ring both cards and game out of his hands. He saw that there was an abselute necessety of destroying the Indians, and that there was som care to be taken for his owne and Armys safety, other-ways the worke might happen to be rechedly don, where the laberours were made criples, and be compeld (insteade of a sword) to make use of a cruch. It vext him to the heart (as he said) to thinke, that while he was a hunting Wolves, tigers and bears, which daly destroyed our harmless and innosscent Lambs, that hee, and those with him, should be persewed in the reare with a full cry, as more savage beasts. He perceved like the corne, he was light between those stones which might grinde him to pouder; if he did not looke the better about him. For the preventing of which, after a short consult with his officers, he countermarcheth his Army (about 500 in all) downe to the midle Plantation: of which the Governour being informed, ships himself and adhearers, for Accomack (for the Gloster men refused to owne his quarill against the Generall) after he had caused Bacon, in these parts to be proclaimed a Rebell once more, July 29.

Bacon being sate down with his Army at the midle Plantation, sends out an invitation unto all the prime Gent: men in these parts, to give him a meeting in his quarters, there to consult how the Indians were to be proceeded against, and himself and Army protected against the desines of Sr. W. B. against whose Papers, of the 29 of May, and his Proclameation since, he puts forth his Replication and those papers upon these Dellama’s.

First, whether persons wholy devoted to the King and countrey, haters of sinester and by-respects, adventering there lives and fortunes, to kill and destroy all in Arms, against King and countrey; that never ploted, contrived, or indevioured the destruction, detryement or wrong of any of his Majesties subjects, there lives, fortunes, or estates can desurve the names of Rebells and Traters: secondly he cites his owne and soulders peaceable behaviour, calling the wholl countrey to witness against him if they can; hee upbrades som in authorety with the meaneness of there parts, others now rich with the meaneness of there estates, when they came into the countrey, and questions by what just ways they have obtained there welth; whether they have not bin the spunges that hath suck’d up the public tresury: Questions what arts,sciences, schools of Learning, or manufactorys, have bin promoted in authorety: Justefyes his adverssion, in generall against the Indians; upbrades the Governour for manetaneing there quarill, though never so unjust, against the Christians rights; his refuseing to admit an English mans oath against an Indian, when that Indians bare word should be accepted of against an Englishman: sath sumthing against ye Governour concerning the Beaver trade, as not in his power to dispose of to his owne profit, it being a Monopeley of the crowne; Questions whether the Traders at the heads of the Rivers being his Facters, do not buy and sell the blood of there breatheren and country men, by furnishing the Indians with Pouder, shott and Fire Arms, contrary to the Laws of the Collony: He araignes one colonel Cowells asscertion, for saying that the English are bound to protect the Indians, to the hassard of there blood. And so concludes with an Appeale to the King and Parliament, where he doubts not but that his and the Peoples cause will be impartially heard.

To comply with the Generalls Invetation, hinted in my former letter, there was a grate convention of the people met him in his quarters; the result of whose eeting was an Ingagement, for the people (of what qullety soever, excepting servants) to subscribe to consisting of 3 heads. First to be aideing, with there lives and estates, the Generall, in the Indian war; secondly, to oppose Sr. Williams designes, if hee had any, to hinder the same; and lastly, to protect the Generall, Army and all that should subscribe this Ingagement, against any power that should be sent out of England, till it should be granted that the countreys complaint might be heard, against Sr. William before the King and Parliament. These 3 heads being methodized, and put in to form, by the Clarke of ye Assembly, who happened to be at this meeting, and redd unto the people, held a despute, from allmost noone, till midnight, pro and con, whether the same might, in the last Article especially, be with out danger taken. The Generall, and som others of the cheife men was Resalute in the affirmative, inserting its innosscency, and protesting, without it, he would surrender up his commission to the Assembly, and lett them finde other servants, to do the countreys worke: this, and the newse, that the Indians were fallen downe in to Gloster county, and had kill’d som people, a bout Carters Creeke; made the people willing to take the Ingagement. The chiefe men that subscribed it at this meeting, were coll. Swan, coll. Beale, coll. Ballard, Esq. Bray, (all foure of the councell) coll. Jordan, coll. Smith, of Purton, coll. Scarsbrook, coll. Miller, coll. Lawrance, and Mr. Drommond, late Governour of Carolina; all persons, with whom you have bin formerly acquainted.

This worke being over, and orders taken for an Assemblye to sitt downe the 4 of September (the writs being issued out in his majestyes name, and signed by 4 of the Councell, before named) the Generall once more sitts out to finde the Indians: of which Sr. William have gained intelligence, to prevent Bacons designes by the Assembley, returns from Accomack, with a bout 1000 soulders, and others, in 5 shipps and 10 sloops to James towne; in which was som 900 Baconians (for soe now they began to be called, for a marke of destinction) under the command of coll. Hansford, who was commissionated by Bacon, to raise Forces (if need were) in his absence, for the safety of the countrey. Unto these Sr. William sends in a summons for a Rendition of ye place, with a pardon to all that would decline Bacons and entertaine his cause. What was returned to his sommons I know not; but in the night the Baconians forsake the Towne, by the advice of Drummond and Lawrence (who were both excepted, in the Governours sommons, out of mercy) every one returning to their owne aboades, excepting Drommond, Hansford, Lawrence, and some few others, who goes to finde out the Generall, now returned to the head of York River, haveing spent his provisions in following the Indians on whom he did sum execution, and sent them packing a grate way from the Borders.

Before that Drommond and those with him had reached the Generall, he had dismist his Army, to there respective habitations, to gather strength against the next intended expedition; eccepting som frew resarved for his Gard, and persons liveing in these parts; unto whom, those that came with Hansford being joyned, made about 150 in all: With these Bacon, by a swift march, before any newes was heard of his return from the Indians, in these parts, came to Towne, to ye consternation of all in it, and there blocks the Governour up; which he easily effected by this unheard of project. He was no sooner arrived at Towne, but by several small parties of Horse (2 or 3 in a party, for more he could not spare) he fetcheth into his little Leagure, all the prime mens wives, whose Husbands were with the Governour, (as coll. Bacons Lady, Madm. Bray, Madm. Page, Madm. Ballard, and others) which the next morning he presents to the view of there husbands and friends in towne, upon the top of the smalle worke hee had cast up in the night; where he caused them to tarey till hee had finished his defence against his enemies shott, it being the onely place (as you do know well enough) for those in towne to make a salley at. Which when completed, and the Governour understanding that the Gentle women were withdrawne in to a place of safety, he sends out some 6 or 700 hundred of his soulders, to beate Bacon out of his Trench: But it seems that those works, which were protected by such charms (when a raiseing) that plug’d up the enimys shot in there gains, could not now be storm’d by a vertue less powerfull (when finished) then the sight of a few white Aprons; otherways the servis had bin more honourable and the damage less, several of those who made the salley being slaine and wounded, without one drop of Blood drawne from the enemy. With in too or three days after this disaster, the Governour reships himself, soulders, and all the inhabitants of the towne, and there goods: and so to Accomack a gane; leaving Bacon to enter the place at his pleasure, which he did the next morning before day, and the night following burns it downe to the ground to prevent a futer seege, as hee saide. Which Flagrant, and Flagitious Act performed, he draws his men out of town and marcheth them over York River, at Tindells point, to fine out collnell Brent, who was advancing fast upon him, from Potomack, at the head of 1200 men, (as he was informed) with a designe to raise Bacons seige, from before the towne, or other ways to fight him, as he saw cause. But, Brents soulders no sooner heard that Bacon was got to the north-side Yorke River, with an intent to fight them, and that he had beate the Governour out of the towne, and fearing, if he met with them; that he might beate them out of there lives they basely forsake there colours, the greater part adheareing to Bacons cause; resolveing with the Perssians to go and worship the rising sun, now approaching nere there Horisson: of which Bacon being informed, he stops his proceedings that way, and begins to provide for a nother expedition a gainst the Indian, of whom he had heard no news since his last March, a gainst them: which while he was a contrieving, Death summons him to more urgent affairs in to whose hands (after a short seige) he surrenders his life, leaving his commition in the custody of his Leif’t Generall, one Ingram, newly comin to the countrey.

Sr. William no sooner had news that Bacon was Dead but he sends over a party, in a sloop to Yorke who snap’d collonell Hansford, and others with him, that kep a negilegent Gard at coll. Reades howse under his command: When Hansford came to Acomack, he had the honour to be the first Verginian born that ever was hang’d; the soulders (about 20 in all) that were taken with him, were commited to Prisson. Capt. Carver, Capt. Wilford, Capt. Farloe, with 5 or 6 others of less note, taken at other places, ending there days as Hansford did; Major Chessman bein appointed (but is seems not destinated to the like end,) which he prevented by dying in prison through ill usage, as it is said.

This execution being over (which the Baconians termed crewilty in the abstract) Sr. William ships himself and soulder for York River, casting Anchor at Tindells point; from whence he sends up a hundred and 20 men to surprise a Gard, of about, 80 men and boys, kept at coll. Bacons howse, under the command of Major Whaly; who being fore-warn’d by Hansford fate, prevented the designed conflict with the death of the commander in cheife, and the taking som prisoners: Major Lawrence Smith, with 600 men, meeting with the like fate at coll. Pates Howse, in Gloster, a gainst Ingram, (the Baconian Generall) onely Smith saved himself, by leaving his men in the lurtch, being all made prisoners; whom Ingram dismist to their own homes; Ingram himself, and all under his command, with in a few days after, being reduced to his duty, by the well contrivance of Capt. Grantham, who was now lately arrived in York River: which put a period to the war, and brought the Governour a shoare at coll. Bacons, where he was presented with Mr. Drumond; taken the day before in Cheekanonimy swomp, half famished, as him self related to my Husband. From coll. Bacons, the next day, he was convayed, in Irons to Mr. Brays (whither the Governour was removed) to his Tryall, where he was condemn’d with in halfe an hower after his coming to Esqr. Brays, to be handed at the middle Plantation, within 4 howers after condemnation; where he was accordingly, executed, with a pittiful French man. Which don, the Governour removes to his owne howse, to settle his and the countryes repose, after his many troubles; which he effected by the advice of his councel and an Assembly convein’d at the Greene Spring; where severall were condemned to be executed, prime actors in ye Rebellion; as Esqr. Bland, coll. Cruse, and som other hanged at Bacons Trench; Capt. Yong, of Cheekahominy, Mr. Hall, clarke of New-Kent court, James Wilson (once your servant) and one Leift. Collonell Page, (one that my Husband bought of Mr. Lee, when he kep store at your howse) all four executed at coll. Reads, over against Tindells point; and Anthony Arnell (the same that did live at your howse) hanged in chanes at West point, beside severall others executed on the other side James River: enough (they say in all) to out number those slane in the wholl war; on both sides: it being observable that the sword was more favourable than the Halter, as there was a grater liberty taken to run from the sharpness of the one, then would be alowed to shun the dull imbraces of the other: the Hangman being more dredfull to the Baconians, then there Generall was to the Indians; as it is counted more honourable, and less terable, to dye like a soulder, then to be hang’d like a dogg.

Thus Sr. have I rendered you an account of our late troubles in Verginia, which I have performed too wordishly; but I did not know how to help it; Ignorance in som cases is a prevalent ovatour in pleading for pardon, I hope mine may have the fortune to prove soe in the behalfe of Sr. Yor. ffriend and servant, An. Cotton. From Q. Creeke. Ref: Ann Cotton, “An Account of Our Late Troubles in Virginia, 1676,” Published from the Original Manuscript in the “Richmond, VA, Enquirer” 12 Sept. 1804; Printed by Peter Force, Washington, DC 1835. (N. B – Mrs. Cotton was of Queen’s Creek.)