Thomas Merritt
M, b. circa 1634
Additional Notes:
-- Wills of Merritt & Lyon Families
1708-1728 Volume 2
Page 74 - THOMAS MERRITT, JR. In the name of God, Amen, January 26, 1718/19. I, Thomas Merritt, Jr., of the town of Rye, in the County of Westchester, yeomen, being at this time sick and weak. I leave to my wife Martha, one-third of all movables and also the use of my dwelling house, lands, orchards, and meadows during her widowhood. I leave to my son Thomas all that my now dwelling house, lands and orchards after my wife's decease, and all the land on the west side of Blind Brook. Also a certain tract of land on the east side of Blind Brook joining to Sergeant Robert Bloomer's land. I leave all the rest of my personal estate to my daughter, Mercy Merritt. I leave to my son Edward, all that my house, barn and orchard and lands and meadows, which I bought of my brother, Ephraim Merritt. I make my wife Martha and my brother Joseph Merritt and John Lyon, Jr., "living at Byram," executors. Witnesses, Joseph Sutton, Adam Ireland, John Stillman. Proved, June 26, 1719.
Page 74 - THOMAS MERRITT, JR. In the name of God, Amen, January 26, 1718/19. I, Thomas Merritt, Jr., of the town of Rye, in the County of Westchester, yeomen, being at this time sick and weak. I leave to my wife Martha, one-third of all movables and also the use of my dwelling house, lands, orchards, and meadows during her widowhood. I leave to my son Thomas all that my now dwelling house, lands and orchards after my wife's decease, and all the land on the west side of Blind Brook. Also a certain tract of land on the east side of Blind Brook joining to Sergeant Robert Bloomer's land. I leave all the rest of my personal estate to my daughter, Mercy Merritt. I leave to my son Edward, all that my house, barn and orchard and lands and meadows, which I bought of my brother, Ephraim Merritt. I make my wife Martha and my brother Joseph Merritt and John Lyon, Jr., "living at Byram," executors. Witnesses, Joseph Sutton, Adam Ireland, John Stillman. Proved, June 26, 1719.
1744-1758 Volume 4
Page 344 - In the name of God, Amen, July 31, 1753, I, JOHN MERRITT, of the town of Rye, in Westchester County, yeoman, being sick. After payment of debts, I leave to my wife Mary 1/3 of the remainder, and the use of all my lands joining to my homestead in Rye, and the liberty of dwelling in one room in my house during her widowhood. "Whereas my eldest son Daniel has had of me money to the amount of œ100, and also œ10 for a horse of mine that he sold and took a note in his own name, for" I freely give him the said sums; And whereas he is indebted to me by a bond for œ50, I give him the same in full bar to all claim as heir at law. I leave to my son Caleb all the lands that he has in his possession in Greenwich, Connecticut; Also 28 acres, part of which my son Nathan has in possession, bounded south by road and running north until it comes to Jeremiah Anderson's land, and to go west into the land in possession of my son Nathan, till it makes 28 acres; And he shall pay to my eldest son Daniel œ60. I leave to my son Nathan all the remainder of my land in Connecticutt, with the house and barn. I leave to my sons, Nathan and Thomas, all that my dwelling house and all lands thereto adjoining in Rye. Thomas is to have the south half, and Nathan to have the north half, "Reserving 1/2 of an acre at the corner of the south half, joining to King street road and Stephen Stockholm's land, and to be square, to remain for a burying place for myself and family, and where some children are already buried." My son Nathan is to pay to my son Daniel œ80, my youngest son Thomas shall pay to his brother John œ50 when he is of age. I leave to my son John œ200, to be paid by my executors. I leave to my daughters, Phebe, Amy, and Ruth, each œ30. All the rest of my movable estate to my daughters, Mary, Hannah, Phebe, Amy, and Ruth. I make my son Caleb and my son-in-law, Reuben Green, executors. Witnesses, Jabez Sherwood, John Parry, John Carhart. Proved, August 20, 1753.
Page 408 - I, DANIEL MERRITT, of White Plains, yeoman, being very weak. I leave to my wife Jane my black mare, and her choice of my cows, and 2 beds, and linnen and household goods, and all the provisions. The rest of my personal estate is to be sold at public vendue. What is due to me on a note from my brother George is to be put at interest for my wife, for the support and education of my only child, Mary Merritt. If my wife marries, she shall have œ20. All the rest of my estate I leave to my daughter Mary when she is of age, or married with the consent of my wife and executors. If she dies, then to my 3 cousins (nephews and niece), David and Jane, the children of my brother, George Merritt, and Elisha, son of my brother, William Merritt. I make my wife and my brother George, and my friend, Elisha Budd, executors.
Volume 5
Page 50 - In the name of God, Amen, March 27, 1752. I, JOSEPH MERRITT, of the Town of Rye, in Westchester County, yeoman, being weak in body. All just debts and funeral charges to be well and truly paid. I leave to my wife Jane one bed and furniture, a side saddle and bridle, and a horse, and a cow, and the free use and benefit of all my house, lands, and meadows, and the use of all movable estate for her support for so long a time as she shall remain my widow. I leave to my three sons, Joseph, Thomas, and Nehemiah, all my wearing clothes. I leave to Joseph Merritt, the son of my oldest son Joseph, all my house and lands lying on the west side of the road "which goes up Hoppen Rigg" (Hog Pen Ridge), And he is to enter into possession after the death or marriage of my wife. My executors are to sell my lot of land lying on the east side of the road which goeth up Hoppen Rigg, so called, and the proceeds, and the money I have at interest, and my cattle, after my wife's decease or marriage, to be divided among my children, Jonathan, Thomas, Nehemiah, Elizabeth, wife of Joseph Brundage, Jr., and Jane, wife of Samuel Williams. I leave to my daughters Elizabeth and Jane all my household goods. I make my 3 sons executors. His wife Jane resigns all right of dower if she marries. Signed by Joseph Merritt and Jane Merritt.
Witnesses, Gilbert Bloomer, Stephen Sherwood, Nehemiah Sherwood. Proved, May 28, 1754, before John Bartow, Surrogate.
Page 393 - In the name of God, Amen, September 29, 1757. I, MARY MERRITT, widow of John Merritt, late of Rye, in Westchester County, being sick and weak. I leave to my eldest daughter Mary, wife of Reuben Green, my best bed. I leave to my son Caleb all money due to me from him. All the rest of my estate I leave to my 5 daughters, Mary, wife of Reuben Green, Hannah, wife of Samuel Pine, Phebe, Amy, wife of Samuel Brown, and Ruth, wife of Solomon Purdy, Jr. I make my son in law, Reuben Green, of Greenwich, Connecticutt, executor. Witnesses, Joseph Willson, Jonathan Coe, John Carhart. Proved, November 2, 1757.
1766-1771 Volume 7
Page 453 - In the name of God, Amen, October 29, 1766. I, ABIGAIL PURDY, widow, of the Precinct of Newburgh, in Ulster County, being very sick. I leave to my son, Stephen Purdy, and to my daughters, Abigail Fowler, Martha Merritt, and Elizabeth Smith, and my granddaughter, Abigail Terbush, all my estate. To my granddaughter, Abigail Terbush "my Looking Glass, which shall be counted as 40 shillings." My son, Stephen Purdy, and my daughters, Martha and Elizabeth, are to pay to Jacob Winner 10 shillings each. My wench "Peggy" is to have her bed and bedding. I leave my wearing clothes to my daughters. I make my sons, Stephen and Caleb Merritt, and Arthur Smith, executors.
Witnesses, James Pugslay, Mary Blamless, Leonard Smith. Proved, December 3, 1770.
Page 457 - In the name of God, Amen. I, THOMAS LYON, of Rye, in Westchester County, yeoman, being sick. All debts to be paid. I leave to my loving wife Martha all household goods, of every sort, and a side saddle, and bridle, and 2 cows. Also my negro woman "Phillis." I further order that my wife Martha shall have the liberty to dwell, and have the use of the whole of my dwelling house during the time she remains my widow. And she shall have pasture on the lands, which I give to my son Andrew, and he is to provide for wintering her cows. She is also to have the use of a garden, and to keep 2 hogs, "and to have the apples in my orchard, and my son Andrew is to make them into syder." I leave to my eldest son Thomas the following parcels of land. One parcel lying west of the street, or road, beginning at the southerly corner, by Gilbert Millers, by said street, and running north along his land to Thomas Howell's land, to my upper lot, then east along said lot, as the fence stands, to King street, then down said street, along the road to Miller's land, where it begins. Also another piece, lying east of my homestead, beginning at the southerly corner thereof, and running north, as the fence stands, along my home lot, until it comes to the corner at the lane, then to run an equal breadth at each end to Byram river. My oldest son Thomas shall have out of my movable estate the sum of 25 shillings, in full bar as heir at law. I leave to my son Andrew, after the death or marriage of my wife, all my homestead and dwelling house, and all my land from my son, Thomas Lyon's land, along the street to Samuel Brown's land, northerly, including the house that my son Andrew has built and now dwelleth in. And so running along Samuel Brown's land and the land I have given to my son Thomas down to Byram river. Also my upper lot, opposite to my house, over the street, bounded south by Thomas' land and street, and east and north by street and Howell's land. Also all that my land lying between Samuel Brown's land and Byram river and running up the river by Joseph and Benjamin Williams land and Samuel Brown's land. Being 60 or 70 acres. Also all my 50 acres I have on the east side of Byram river, in Greenwich, Connecticut, lying joining to Gilbert Lyon's land and Mogers. It is my will that my land, meadow sedge, or Island or beach, which I have on Mamursing Island, in partnership with my son Andrew, be sold by executors, and I leave the money and the rest of movable estate to my children. I leave to the children of my daughter Phebe, late wife of Samuel Wilson, 1/5. To the children of my daughter Mary, late wife of Abraham Miller, deceased, 1/5. To Abigail, wife of Daniel Merritt, 1/5. To Jemima, wife of James Seaman, 1/5. To my son Andrew 1/5 and œ10 more. I make my sons, Thomas and Andrew, executors. Dated, November 5, 1770.
Witnesses, Jonathan Kniffen, John Carhart, school master, Samuel Lyons. Proved, December 13, 1770.
Page 540 - In the name of God, Amen. April 8, 1767. I, SARAH LYON, widow of Joseph Lyon, late of Rye, in Westchester County, being in good health. I leave to my two daughters, Phebe Miller and Amy Haines, all my wearing apparell and household goods; To the children [not named] of my daughter, Anne Budd, deceased, œ10 each. All the rest of my estate (except œ70, given by my husband to our grandson, Elisha Merritt), 1/3 to my daughter, Phebe Miller, 1/3 to my daughter, Amy Haines, and 1/3 to my grandsons, Joseph and Silvanus Merritt. "My grandson, Elisha Merritt, died before his grandfather, and under age." I leave to my grandson, William Merritt, $30. My negroes are to choose their masters. I make my grandsons, Joseph and William Miller, executors.
Witnesses, Andrew Meritt, Ezekial Halstead, John Carhart.
Codicil, January 3, 1769, makes Joseph Miller and John Townsend, of Mamaroneck, executors. Witnesses, Phebe Miller, Emey Haines, John Carhart. Proved January 30, 1769.
page 256 - In the name of God, Amen, January 25, 1759. I, George Merritt, of the Precinct of the Highlands, in Ulster County, yeoman, being sick. I leave to my wife Glorande œ20, and her bed and bedding and curtains, and a horse, saddle and bridle, and one room in my house and her maintainance out of my estate. I leave to my son Caleb 83 acres of land on the north side of the lands where I now live, "lying at a point of land commonly called Robins Point," and running west 40 rods wide till it makes 83 acres, Also all the lands at the White Plains that was given to my mother by the will of her grand father, Winfree Underhill. I leave to my son Humphrey "100 acres of land lying at the west side of my land across from Dubois, to Thomas Merritt's land, and running east till it makes 100 acres." I leave to my son Samuel 100 acres of land adjoining to my son Humphrey, and running from Dubois' land to Thomas Merritt's land, and so running east till it makes 100 acres. I leave to my son George 100 acres of land, adjoining to my son Samuel on the east side, from Dubois' land to Thomas Merritt's land. I leave to my son Gabriel and my son David all the rest of the lotment of land where I now live in Ulster County, and if any more land should be recovered to this lotment, I leave the same to my son Josiah. I make my 6 eldest sons executors, and they are to pay to my son Josiah œ10 each when they are 23 years of age. My lands at the White Plains which I had by my father are to be sold at discretion of my executors. All the rest of my movable estate, except my sons' horses, are to be sold, and after payment of debts I leave the rest to my daughters, Elizabeth, Glorande, and Jean. I make my wife, and my son Humphrey, and Samuel Fowler, executors. Witnesses, Thomas Merritt, John Bloomer, Joseph Bloomer, Sr.
dated 15 Jan 1759 & probated 23 March 1759
1760-1766 Volume 6:
page 152 - In the name of God, Amen, December 2, 1759. I, Glorin Merritt, of the Precinct of the Highlands, in Ulster County, being very sick. I leave to my daughter Glorin my bed and furniture. I leave to my daughter Jane my saddle and bridle. I leave to my daughters, Elizabeth, Jane, and Glorin, all my wearing clothes. My horse is to be sold at the discretion of my executors, "and the money, and œ20 that I am to receive next spring from the estate of my husband by virtue of his will, is to be equally divided between my daughters Glorin and Jane and my son, Josiah Merritt, but the money is to be put at interest till they are of age." If all the said children should die, then I leave to my son, Caleb Merritt, 10 shillings, and the rest to be divided at the discretion of my executors. I make my son, Humphrey Merritt, and my brother, Samuel Purdy, executors. Witnesses, Martha Lathing, Stephen Purdy, farmer, Joseph Bloomer.
probated 18 October 1765
Volume 4
Page 344 - In the name of God, Amen, July 31, 1753, I, JOHN MERRITT, of the town of Rye, in Westchester County, yeoman, being sick. After payment of debts, I leave to my wife Mary 1/3 of the remainder, and the use of all my lands joining to my homestead in Rye, and the liberty of dwelling in one room in my house during her widowhood. "Whereas my eldest son Daniel has had of me money to the amount of œ100, and also œ10 for a horse of mine that he sold and took a note in his own name, for" I freely give him the said sums; And whereas he is indebted to me by a bond for œ50, I give him the same in full bar to all claim as heir at law. I leave to my son Caleb all the lands that he has in his possession in Greenwich, Connecticut; Also 28 acres, part of which my son Nathan has in possession, bounded south by road and running north until it comes to Jeremiah Anderson's land, and to go west into the land in possession of my son Nathan, till it makes 28 acres; And he shall pay to my eldest son Daniel œ60. I leave to my son Nathan all the remainder of my land in Connecticutt, with the house and barn. I leave to my sons, Nathan and Thomas, all that my dwelling house and all lands thereto adjoining in Rye. Thomas is to have the south half, and Nathan to have the north half, "Reserving 1/2 of an acre at the corner of the south half, joining to King street road and Stephen Stockholm's land, and to be square, to remain for a burying place for myself and family, and where some children are already buried." My son Nathan is to pay to my son Daniel œ80, my youngest son Thomas shall pay to his brother John œ50 when he is of age. I leave to my son John œ200, to be paid by my executors. I leave to my daughters, Phebe, Amy, and Ruth, each œ30. All the rest of my movable estate to my daughters, Mary, Hannah, Phebe, Amy, and Ruth. I make my son Caleb and my son-in-law, Reuben Green, executors. Witnesses, Jabez Sherwood, John Parry, John Carhart. Proved, August 20, 1753.
Page 408 - I, DANIEL MERRITT, of White Plains, yeoman, being very weak. I leave to my wife Jane my black mare, and her choice of my cows, and 2 beds, and linnen and household goods, and all the provisions. The rest of my personal estate is to be sold at public vendue. What is due to me on a note from my brother George is to be put at interest for my wife, for the support and education of my only child, Mary Merritt. If my wife marries, she shall have œ20. All the rest of my estate I leave to my daughter Mary when she is of age, or married with the consent of my wife and executors. If she dies, then to my 3 cousins (nephews and niece), David and Jane, the children of my brother, George Merritt, and Elisha, son of my brother, William Merritt. I make my wife and my brother George, and my friend, Elisha Budd, executors.
1754-1760 Volume 5
Page 50 - In the name of God, Amen, March 27, 1752. I, JOSEPH MERRITT, of the Town of Rye, in Westchester County, yeoman, being weak in body. All just debts and funeral charges to be well and truly paid. I leave to my wife Jane one bed and furniture, a side saddle and bridle, and a horse, and a cow, and the free use and benefit of all my house, lands, and meadows, and the use of all movable estate for her support for so long a time as she shall remain my widow. I leave to my three sons, Joseph, Thomas, and Nehemiah, all my wearing clothes. I leave to Joseph Merritt, the son of my oldest son Joseph, all my house and lands lying on the west side of the road "which goes up Hoppen Rigg" (Hog Pen Ridge), And he is to enter into possession after the death or marriage of my wife. My executors are to sell my lot of land lying on the east side of the road which goeth up Hoppen Rigg, so called, and the proceeds, and the money I have at interest, and my cattle, after my wife's decease or marriage, to be divided among my children, Jonathan, Thomas, Nehemiah, Elizabeth, wife of Joseph Brundage, Jr., and Jane, wife of Samuel Williams. I leave to my daughters Elizabeth and Jane all my household goods. I make my 3 sons executors. His wife Jane resigns all right of dower if she marries. Signed by Joseph Merritt and Jane Merritt.
Witnesses, Gilbert Bloomer, Stephen Sherwood, Nehemiah Sherwood. Proved, May 28, 1754, before John Bartow, Surrogate.
Page 393 - In the name of God, Amen, September 29, 1757. I, MARY MERRITT, widow of John Merritt, late of Rye, in Westchester County, being sick and weak. I leave to my eldest daughter Mary, wife of Reuben Green, my best bed. I leave to my son Caleb all money due to me from him. All the rest of my estate I leave to my 5 daughters, Mary, wife of Reuben Green, Hannah, wife of Samuel Pine, Phebe, Amy, wife of Samuel Brown, and Ruth, wife of Solomon Purdy, Jr. I make my son in law, Reuben Green, of Greenwich, Connecticutt, executor. Witnesses, Joseph Willson, Jonathan Coe, John Carhart. Proved, November 2, 1757.
1766-1770 Volume 7
Page 453 - In the name of God, Amen, October 29, 1766. I, ABIGAIL PURDY, widow, of the Precinct of Newburgh, in Ulster County, being very sick. I leave to my son, Stephen Purdy, and to my daughters, Abigail Fowler, Martha Merritt, and Elizabeth Smith, and my granddaughter, Abigail Terbush, all my estate. To my granddaughter, Abigail Terbush "my Looking Glass, which shall be counted as 40 shillings." My son, Stephen Purdy, and my daughters, Martha and Elizabeth, are to pay to Jacob Winner 10 shillings each. My wench "Peggy" is to have her bed and bedding. I leave my wearing clothes to my daughters. I make my sons, Stephen and Caleb Merritt, and Arthur Smith, executors.
Witnesses, James Pugslay, Mary Blamless, Leonard Smith. Proved, December 3, 1770.
Page 457 - In the name of God, Amen. I, THOMAS LYON, of Rye, in Westchester County, yeoman, being sick. All debts to be paid. I leave to my loving wife Martha all household goods, of every sort, and a side saddle, and bridle, and 2 cows. Also my negro woman "Phillis." I further order that my wife Martha shall have the liberty to dwell, and have the use of the whole of my dwelling house during the time she remains my widow. And she shall have pasture on the lands, which I give to my son Andrew, and he is to provide for wintering her cows. She is also to have the use of a garden, and to keep 2 hogs, "and to have the apples in my orchard, and my son Andrew is to make them into syder." I leave to my eldest son Thomas the following parcels of land. One parcel lying west of the street, or road, beginning at the southerly corner, by Gilbert Millers, by said street, and running north along his land to Thomas Howell's land, to my upper lot, then east along said lot, as the fence stands, to King street, then down said street, along the road to Miller's land, where it begins. Also another piece, lying east of my homestead, beginning at the southerly corner thereof, and running north, as the fence stands, along my home lot, until it comes to the corner at the lane, then to run an equal breadth at each end to Byram river. My oldest son Thomas shall have out of my movable estate the sum of 25 shillings, in full bar as heir at law. I leave to my son Andrew, after the death or marriage of my wife, all my homestead and dwelling house, and all my land from my son, Thomas Lyon's land, along the street to Samuel Brown's land, northerly, including the house that my son Andrew has built and now dwelleth in. And so running along Samuel Brown's land and the land I have given to my son Thomas down to Byram river. Also my upper lot, opposite to my house, over the street, bounded south by Thomas' land and street, and east and north by street and Howell's land. Also all that my land lying between Samuel Brown's land and Byram river and running up the river by Joseph and Benjamin Williams land and Samuel Brown's land. Being 60 or 70 acres. Also all my 50 acres I have on the east side of Byram river, in Greenwich, Connecticut, lying joining to Gilbert Lyon's land and Mogers. It is my will that my land, meadow sedge, or Island or beach, which I have on Mamursing Island, in partnership with my son Andrew, be sold by executors, and I leave the money and the rest of movable estate to my children. I leave to the children of my daughter Phebe, late wife of Samuel Wilson, 1/5. To the children of my daughter Mary, late wife of Abraham Miller, deceased, 1/5. To Abigail, wife of Daniel Merritt, 1/5. To Jemima, wife of James Seaman, 1/5. To my son Andrew 1/5 and œ10 more. I make my sons, Thomas and Andrew, executors. Dated, November 5, 1770.
Witnesses, Jonathan Kniffen, John Carhart, school master, Samuel Lyons. Proved, December 13, 1770.
Page 540 - In the name of God, Amen. April 8, 1767. I, SARAH LYON, widow of Joseph Lyon, late of Rye, in Westchester County, being in good health. I leave to my two daughters, Phebe Miller and Amy Haines, all my wearing apparell and household goods; To the children [not named] of my daughter, Anne Budd, deceased, œ10 each. All the rest of my estate (except œ70, given by my husband to our grandson, Elisha Merritt), 1/3 to my daughter, Phebe Miller, 1/3 to my daughter, Amy Haines, and 1/3 to my grandsons, Joseph and Silvanus Merritt. "My grandson, Elisha Merritt, died before his grandfather, and under age." I leave to my grandson, William Merritt, $30. My negroes are to choose their masters. I make my grandsons, Joseph and William Miller, executors.
Witnesses, Andrew Meritt, Ezekial Halstead, John Carhart.
Codicil, January 3, 1769, makes Joseph Miller and John Townsend, of Mamaroneck, executors. Witnesses, Phebe Miller, Emey Haines, John Carhart. Proved January 30, 1769.
page 256 - In the name of God, Amen, January 25, 1759. I, George Merritt, of the Precinct of the Highlands, in Ulster County, yeoman, being sick. I leave to my wife Glorande œ20, and her bed and bedding and curtains, and a horse, saddle and bridle, and one room in my house and her maintainance out of my estate. I leave to my son Caleb 83 acres of land on the north side of the lands where I now live, "lying at a point of land commonly called Robins Point," and running west 40 rods wide till it makes 83 acres, Also all the lands at the White Plains that was given to my mother by the will of her grand father, Winfree Underhill. I leave to my son Humphrey "100 acres of land lying at the west side of my land across from Dubois, to Thomas Merritt's land, and running east till it makes 100 acres." I leave to my son Samuel 100 acres of land adjoining to my son Humphrey, and running from Dubois' land to Thomas Merritt's land, and so running east till it makes 100 acres. I leave to my son George 100 acres of land, adjoining to my son Samuel on the east side, from Dubois' land to Thomas Merritt's land. I leave to my son Gabriel and my son David all the rest of the lotment of land where I now live in Ulster County, and if any more land should be recovered to this lotment, I leave the same to my son Josiah. I make my 6 eldest sons executors, and they are to pay to my son Josiah œ10 each when they are 23 years of age. My lands at the White Plains which I had by my father are to be sold at discretion of my executors. All the rest of my movable estate, except my sons' horses, are to be sold, and after payment of debts I leave the rest to my daughters, Elizabeth, Glorande, and Jean. I make my wife, and my son Humphrey, and Samuel Fowler, executors. Witnesses, Thomas Merritt, John Bloomer, Joseph Bloomer, Sr.
dated 15 Jan 1759 & probated 23 March 1759
1760-1766 Volume 6
page 152 - In the name of God, Amen, December 2, 1759. I, Glorin Merritt, of the Precinct of the Highlands, in Ulster County, being very sick. I leave to my daughter Glorin my bed and furniture. I leave to my daughter Jane my saddle and bridle. I leave to my daughters, Elizabeth, Jane, and Glorin, all my wearing clothes. My horse is to be sold at the discretion of my executors, "and the money, and œ20 that I am to receive next spring from the estate of my husband by virtue of his will, is to be equally divided between my daughters Glorin and Jane and my son, Josiah Merritt, but the money is to be put at interest till they are of age." If all the said children should die, then I leave to my son, Caleb Merritt, 10 shillings, and the rest to be divided at the discretion of my executors. I make my son, Humphrey Merritt, and my brother, Samuel Purdy, executors. Witnesses, Martha Lathing, Stephen Purdy, farmer, Joseph Bloomer.
probated 18 October 1765.
Thomas was born circa 1634.1 Thomas married 2nd Jane Sherwood on 3 December 1656.1 Thomas's wife, Jane, died on 4 January 1685 in Rye, Westchester County, New York, leaving him a widower.1 Thomas married Abigail Francis on 13 August 1686 in Wethersfield, Hartford County, Connecticut.2 On 20 October 1688, an indenture was drawn between Thomas Merritt of Rye & John Welles of Wethersfield. In this indenture, Thomas was securing for himelf & Abigail in the township of Rye a home lot of about 5 acres. The purpose of this indenture was to protect Abigail's rights in case of Thomas' death.3 Thomas's wife, Abigail, died before 1696 in Rye, Westchester County, New York, leaving him a widower.1 Thomas married 3rd Mary Ferris, daughter of Jeffrey Ferris and Mary, in 1696 in Rye, Westchester County, New York.1 The family resided in Rye, Westchester County, New York.
-- Wills of Merritt & Lyon Families
1708-1728 Volume 2
Page 74 - THOMAS MERRITT, JR. In the name of God, Amen, January 26, 1718/19. I, Thomas Merritt, Jr., of the town of Rye, in the County of Westchester, yeomen, being at this time sick and weak. I leave to my wife Martha, one-third of all movables and also the use of my dwelling house, lands, orchards, and meadows during her widowhood. I leave to my son Thomas all that my now dwelling house, lands and orchards after my wife's decease, and all the land on the west side of Blind Brook. Also a certain tract of land on the east side of Blind Brook joining to Sergeant Robert Bloomer's land. I leave all the rest of my personal estate to my daughter, Mercy Merritt. I leave to my son Edward, all that my house, barn and orchard and lands and meadows, which I bought of my brother, Ephraim Merritt. I make my wife Martha and my brother Joseph Merritt and John Lyon, Jr., "living at Byram," executors. Witnesses, Joseph Sutton, Adam Ireland, John Stillman. Proved, June 26, 1719.
Page 74 - THOMAS MERRITT, JR. In the name of God, Amen, January 26, 1718/19. I, Thomas Merritt, Jr., of the town of Rye, in the County of Westchester, yeomen, being at this time sick and weak. I leave to my wife Martha, one-third of all movables and also the use of my dwelling house, lands, orchards, and meadows during her widowhood. I leave to my son Thomas all that my now dwelling house, lands and orchards after my wife's decease, and all the land on the west side of Blind Brook. Also a certain tract of land on the east side of Blind Brook joining to Sergeant Robert Bloomer's land. I leave all the rest of my personal estate to my daughter, Mercy Merritt. I leave to my son Edward, all that my house, barn and orchard and lands and meadows, which I bought of my brother, Ephraim Merritt. I make my wife Martha and my brother Joseph Merritt and John Lyon, Jr., "living at Byram," executors. Witnesses, Joseph Sutton, Adam Ireland, John Stillman. Proved, June 26, 1719.
1744-1758 Volume 4
Page 344 - In the name of God, Amen, July 31, 1753, I, JOHN MERRITT, of the town of Rye, in Westchester County, yeoman, being sick. After payment of debts, I leave to my wife Mary 1/3 of the remainder, and the use of all my lands joining to my homestead in Rye, and the liberty of dwelling in one room in my house during her widowhood. "Whereas my eldest son Daniel has had of me money to the amount of œ100, and also œ10 for a horse of mine that he sold and took a note in his own name, for" I freely give him the said sums; And whereas he is indebted to me by a bond for œ50, I give him the same in full bar to all claim as heir at law. I leave to my son Caleb all the lands that he has in his possession in Greenwich, Connecticut; Also 28 acres, part of which my son Nathan has in possession, bounded south by road and running north until it comes to Jeremiah Anderson's land, and to go west into the land in possession of my son Nathan, till it makes 28 acres; And he shall pay to my eldest son Daniel œ60. I leave to my son Nathan all the remainder of my land in Connecticutt, with the house and barn. I leave to my sons, Nathan and Thomas, all that my dwelling house and all lands thereto adjoining in Rye. Thomas is to have the south half, and Nathan to have the north half, "Reserving 1/2 of an acre at the corner of the south half, joining to King street road and Stephen Stockholm's land, and to be square, to remain for a burying place for myself and family, and where some children are already buried." My son Nathan is to pay to my son Daniel œ80, my youngest son Thomas shall pay to his brother John œ50 when he is of age. I leave to my son John œ200, to be paid by my executors. I leave to my daughters, Phebe, Amy, and Ruth, each œ30. All the rest of my movable estate to my daughters, Mary, Hannah, Phebe, Amy, and Ruth. I make my son Caleb and my son-in-law, Reuben Green, executors. Witnesses, Jabez Sherwood, John Parry, John Carhart. Proved, August 20, 1753.
Page 408 - I, DANIEL MERRITT, of White Plains, yeoman, being very weak. I leave to my wife Jane my black mare, and her choice of my cows, and 2 beds, and linnen and household goods, and all the provisions. The rest of my personal estate is to be sold at public vendue. What is due to me on a note from my brother George is to be put at interest for my wife, for the support and education of my only child, Mary Merritt. If my wife marries, she shall have œ20. All the rest of my estate I leave to my daughter Mary when she is of age, or married with the consent of my wife and executors. If she dies, then to my 3 cousins (nephews and niece), David and Jane, the children of my brother, George Merritt, and Elisha, son of my brother, William Merritt. I make my wife and my brother George, and my friend, Elisha Budd, executors.
Volume 5
Page 50 - In the name of God, Amen, March 27, 1752. I, JOSEPH MERRITT, of the Town of Rye, in Westchester County, yeoman, being weak in body. All just debts and funeral charges to be well and truly paid. I leave to my wife Jane one bed and furniture, a side saddle and bridle, and a horse, and a cow, and the free use and benefit of all my house, lands, and meadows, and the use of all movable estate for her support for so long a time as she shall remain my widow. I leave to my three sons, Joseph, Thomas, and Nehemiah, all my wearing clothes. I leave to Joseph Merritt, the son of my oldest son Joseph, all my house and lands lying on the west side of the road "which goes up Hoppen Rigg" (Hog Pen Ridge), And he is to enter into possession after the death or marriage of my wife. My executors are to sell my lot of land lying on the east side of the road which goeth up Hoppen Rigg, so called, and the proceeds, and the money I have at interest, and my cattle, after my wife's decease or marriage, to be divided among my children, Jonathan, Thomas, Nehemiah, Elizabeth, wife of Joseph Brundage, Jr., and Jane, wife of Samuel Williams. I leave to my daughters Elizabeth and Jane all my household goods. I make my 3 sons executors. His wife Jane resigns all right of dower if she marries. Signed by Joseph Merritt and Jane Merritt.
Witnesses, Gilbert Bloomer, Stephen Sherwood, Nehemiah Sherwood. Proved, May 28, 1754, before John Bartow, Surrogate.
Page 393 - In the name of God, Amen, September 29, 1757. I, MARY MERRITT, widow of John Merritt, late of Rye, in Westchester County, being sick and weak. I leave to my eldest daughter Mary, wife of Reuben Green, my best bed. I leave to my son Caleb all money due to me from him. All the rest of my estate I leave to my 5 daughters, Mary, wife of Reuben Green, Hannah, wife of Samuel Pine, Phebe, Amy, wife of Samuel Brown, and Ruth, wife of Solomon Purdy, Jr. I make my son in law, Reuben Green, of Greenwich, Connecticutt, executor. Witnesses, Joseph Willson, Jonathan Coe, John Carhart. Proved, November 2, 1757.
1766-1771 Volume 7
Page 453 - In the name of God, Amen, October 29, 1766. I, ABIGAIL PURDY, widow, of the Precinct of Newburgh, in Ulster County, being very sick. I leave to my son, Stephen Purdy, and to my daughters, Abigail Fowler, Martha Merritt, and Elizabeth Smith, and my granddaughter, Abigail Terbush, all my estate. To my granddaughter, Abigail Terbush "my Looking Glass, which shall be counted as 40 shillings." My son, Stephen Purdy, and my daughters, Martha and Elizabeth, are to pay to Jacob Winner 10 shillings each. My wench "Peggy" is to have her bed and bedding. I leave my wearing clothes to my daughters. I make my sons, Stephen and Caleb Merritt, and Arthur Smith, executors.
Witnesses, James Pugslay, Mary Blamless, Leonard Smith. Proved, December 3, 1770.
Page 457 - In the name of God, Amen. I, THOMAS LYON, of Rye, in Westchester County, yeoman, being sick. All debts to be paid. I leave to my loving wife Martha all household goods, of every sort, and a side saddle, and bridle, and 2 cows. Also my negro woman "Phillis." I further order that my wife Martha shall have the liberty to dwell, and have the use of the whole of my dwelling house during the time she remains my widow. And she shall have pasture on the lands, which I give to my son Andrew, and he is to provide for wintering her cows. She is also to have the use of a garden, and to keep 2 hogs, "and to have the apples in my orchard, and my son Andrew is to make them into syder." I leave to my eldest son Thomas the following parcels of land. One parcel lying west of the street, or road, beginning at the southerly corner, by Gilbert Millers, by said street, and running north along his land to Thomas Howell's land, to my upper lot, then east along said lot, as the fence stands, to King street, then down said street, along the road to Miller's land, where it begins. Also another piece, lying east of my homestead, beginning at the southerly corner thereof, and running north, as the fence stands, along my home lot, until it comes to the corner at the lane, then to run an equal breadth at each end to Byram river. My oldest son Thomas shall have out of my movable estate the sum of 25 shillings, in full bar as heir at law. I leave to my son Andrew, after the death or marriage of my wife, all my homestead and dwelling house, and all my land from my son, Thomas Lyon's land, along the street to Samuel Brown's land, northerly, including the house that my son Andrew has built and now dwelleth in. And so running along Samuel Brown's land and the land I have given to my son Thomas down to Byram river. Also my upper lot, opposite to my house, over the street, bounded south by Thomas' land and street, and east and north by street and Howell's land. Also all that my land lying between Samuel Brown's land and Byram river and running up the river by Joseph and Benjamin Williams land and Samuel Brown's land. Being 60 or 70 acres. Also all my 50 acres I have on the east side of Byram river, in Greenwich, Connecticut, lying joining to Gilbert Lyon's land and Mogers. It is my will that my land, meadow sedge, or Island or beach, which I have on Mamursing Island, in partnership with my son Andrew, be sold by executors, and I leave the money and the rest of movable estate to my children. I leave to the children of my daughter Phebe, late wife of Samuel Wilson, 1/5. To the children of my daughter Mary, late wife of Abraham Miller, deceased, 1/5. To Abigail, wife of Daniel Merritt, 1/5. To Jemima, wife of James Seaman, 1/5. To my son Andrew 1/5 and œ10 more. I make my sons, Thomas and Andrew, executors. Dated, November 5, 1770.
Witnesses, Jonathan Kniffen, John Carhart, school master, Samuel Lyons. Proved, December 13, 1770.
Page 540 - In the name of God, Amen. April 8, 1767. I, SARAH LYON, widow of Joseph Lyon, late of Rye, in Westchester County, being in good health. I leave to my two daughters, Phebe Miller and Amy Haines, all my wearing apparell and household goods; To the children [not named] of my daughter, Anne Budd, deceased, œ10 each. All the rest of my estate (except œ70, given by my husband to our grandson, Elisha Merritt), 1/3 to my daughter, Phebe Miller, 1/3 to my daughter, Amy Haines, and 1/3 to my grandsons, Joseph and Silvanus Merritt. "My grandson, Elisha Merritt, died before his grandfather, and under age." I leave to my grandson, William Merritt, $30. My negroes are to choose their masters. I make my grandsons, Joseph and William Miller, executors.
Witnesses, Andrew Meritt, Ezekial Halstead, John Carhart.
Codicil, January 3, 1769, makes Joseph Miller and John Townsend, of Mamaroneck, executors. Witnesses, Phebe Miller, Emey Haines, John Carhart. Proved January 30, 1769.
page 256 - In the name of God, Amen, January 25, 1759. I, George Merritt, of the Precinct of the Highlands, in Ulster County, yeoman, being sick. I leave to my wife Glorande œ20, and her bed and bedding and curtains, and a horse, saddle and bridle, and one room in my house and her maintainance out of my estate. I leave to my son Caleb 83 acres of land on the north side of the lands where I now live, "lying at a point of land commonly called Robins Point," and running west 40 rods wide till it makes 83 acres, Also all the lands at the White Plains that was given to my mother by the will of her grand father, Winfree Underhill. I leave to my son Humphrey "100 acres of land lying at the west side of my land across from Dubois, to Thomas Merritt's land, and running east till it makes 100 acres." I leave to my son Samuel 100 acres of land adjoining to my son Humphrey, and running from Dubois' land to Thomas Merritt's land, and so running east till it makes 100 acres. I leave to my son George 100 acres of land, adjoining to my son Samuel on the east side, from Dubois' land to Thomas Merritt's land. I leave to my son Gabriel and my son David all the rest of the lotment of land where I now live in Ulster County, and if any more land should be recovered to this lotment, I leave the same to my son Josiah. I make my 6 eldest sons executors, and they are to pay to my son Josiah œ10 each when they are 23 years of age. My lands at the White Plains which I had by my father are to be sold at discretion of my executors. All the rest of my movable estate, except my sons' horses, are to be sold, and after payment of debts I leave the rest to my daughters, Elizabeth, Glorande, and Jean. I make my wife, and my son Humphrey, and Samuel Fowler, executors. Witnesses, Thomas Merritt, John Bloomer, Joseph Bloomer, Sr.
dated 15 Jan 1759 & probated 23 March 1759
1760-1766 Volume 6:
page 152 - In the name of God, Amen, December 2, 1759. I, Glorin Merritt, of the Precinct of the Highlands, in Ulster County, being very sick. I leave to my daughter Glorin my bed and furniture. I leave to my daughter Jane my saddle and bridle. I leave to my daughters, Elizabeth, Jane, and Glorin, all my wearing clothes. My horse is to be sold at the discretion of my executors, "and the money, and œ20 that I am to receive next spring from the estate of my husband by virtue of his will, is to be equally divided between my daughters Glorin and Jane and my son, Josiah Merritt, but the money is to be put at interest till they are of age." If all the said children should die, then I leave to my son, Caleb Merritt, 10 shillings, and the rest to be divided at the discretion of my executors. I make my son, Humphrey Merritt, and my brother, Samuel Purdy, executors. Witnesses, Martha Lathing, Stephen Purdy, farmer, Joseph Bloomer.
probated 18 October 1765
Volume 4
Page 344 - In the name of God, Amen, July 31, 1753, I, JOHN MERRITT, of the town of Rye, in Westchester County, yeoman, being sick. After payment of debts, I leave to my wife Mary 1/3 of the remainder, and the use of all my lands joining to my homestead in Rye, and the liberty of dwelling in one room in my house during her widowhood. "Whereas my eldest son Daniel has had of me money to the amount of œ100, and also œ10 for a horse of mine that he sold and took a note in his own name, for" I freely give him the said sums; And whereas he is indebted to me by a bond for œ50, I give him the same in full bar to all claim as heir at law. I leave to my son Caleb all the lands that he has in his possession in Greenwich, Connecticut; Also 28 acres, part of which my son Nathan has in possession, bounded south by road and running north until it comes to Jeremiah Anderson's land, and to go west into the land in possession of my son Nathan, till it makes 28 acres; And he shall pay to my eldest son Daniel œ60. I leave to my son Nathan all the remainder of my land in Connecticutt, with the house and barn. I leave to my sons, Nathan and Thomas, all that my dwelling house and all lands thereto adjoining in Rye. Thomas is to have the south half, and Nathan to have the north half, "Reserving 1/2 of an acre at the corner of the south half, joining to King street road and Stephen Stockholm's land, and to be square, to remain for a burying place for myself and family, and where some children are already buried." My son Nathan is to pay to my son Daniel œ80, my youngest son Thomas shall pay to his brother John œ50 when he is of age. I leave to my son John œ200, to be paid by my executors. I leave to my daughters, Phebe, Amy, and Ruth, each œ30. All the rest of my movable estate to my daughters, Mary, Hannah, Phebe, Amy, and Ruth. I make my son Caleb and my son-in-law, Reuben Green, executors. Witnesses, Jabez Sherwood, John Parry, John Carhart. Proved, August 20, 1753.
Page 408 - I, DANIEL MERRITT, of White Plains, yeoman, being very weak. I leave to my wife Jane my black mare, and her choice of my cows, and 2 beds, and linnen and household goods, and all the provisions. The rest of my personal estate is to be sold at public vendue. What is due to me on a note from my brother George is to be put at interest for my wife, for the support and education of my only child, Mary Merritt. If my wife marries, she shall have œ20. All the rest of my estate I leave to my daughter Mary when she is of age, or married with the consent of my wife and executors. If she dies, then to my 3 cousins (nephews and niece), David and Jane, the children of my brother, George Merritt, and Elisha, son of my brother, William Merritt. I make my wife and my brother George, and my friend, Elisha Budd, executors.
1754-1760 Volume 5
Page 50 - In the name of God, Amen, March 27, 1752. I, JOSEPH MERRITT, of the Town of Rye, in Westchester County, yeoman, being weak in body. All just debts and funeral charges to be well and truly paid. I leave to my wife Jane one bed and furniture, a side saddle and bridle, and a horse, and a cow, and the free use and benefit of all my house, lands, and meadows, and the use of all movable estate for her support for so long a time as she shall remain my widow. I leave to my three sons, Joseph, Thomas, and Nehemiah, all my wearing clothes. I leave to Joseph Merritt, the son of my oldest son Joseph, all my house and lands lying on the west side of the road "which goes up Hoppen Rigg" (Hog Pen Ridge), And he is to enter into possession after the death or marriage of my wife. My executors are to sell my lot of land lying on the east side of the road which goeth up Hoppen Rigg, so called, and the proceeds, and the money I have at interest, and my cattle, after my wife's decease or marriage, to be divided among my children, Jonathan, Thomas, Nehemiah, Elizabeth, wife of Joseph Brundage, Jr., and Jane, wife of Samuel Williams. I leave to my daughters Elizabeth and Jane all my household goods. I make my 3 sons executors. His wife Jane resigns all right of dower if she marries. Signed by Joseph Merritt and Jane Merritt.
Witnesses, Gilbert Bloomer, Stephen Sherwood, Nehemiah Sherwood. Proved, May 28, 1754, before John Bartow, Surrogate.
Page 393 - In the name of God, Amen, September 29, 1757. I, MARY MERRITT, widow of John Merritt, late of Rye, in Westchester County, being sick and weak. I leave to my eldest daughter Mary, wife of Reuben Green, my best bed. I leave to my son Caleb all money due to me from him. All the rest of my estate I leave to my 5 daughters, Mary, wife of Reuben Green, Hannah, wife of Samuel Pine, Phebe, Amy, wife of Samuel Brown, and Ruth, wife of Solomon Purdy, Jr. I make my son in law, Reuben Green, of Greenwich, Connecticutt, executor. Witnesses, Joseph Willson, Jonathan Coe, John Carhart. Proved, November 2, 1757.
1766-1770 Volume 7
Page 453 - In the name of God, Amen, October 29, 1766. I, ABIGAIL PURDY, widow, of the Precinct of Newburgh, in Ulster County, being very sick. I leave to my son, Stephen Purdy, and to my daughters, Abigail Fowler, Martha Merritt, and Elizabeth Smith, and my granddaughter, Abigail Terbush, all my estate. To my granddaughter, Abigail Terbush "my Looking Glass, which shall be counted as 40 shillings." My son, Stephen Purdy, and my daughters, Martha and Elizabeth, are to pay to Jacob Winner 10 shillings each. My wench "Peggy" is to have her bed and bedding. I leave my wearing clothes to my daughters. I make my sons, Stephen and Caleb Merritt, and Arthur Smith, executors.
Witnesses, James Pugslay, Mary Blamless, Leonard Smith. Proved, December 3, 1770.
Page 457 - In the name of God, Amen. I, THOMAS LYON, of Rye, in Westchester County, yeoman, being sick. All debts to be paid. I leave to my loving wife Martha all household goods, of every sort, and a side saddle, and bridle, and 2 cows. Also my negro woman "Phillis." I further order that my wife Martha shall have the liberty to dwell, and have the use of the whole of my dwelling house during the time she remains my widow. And she shall have pasture on the lands, which I give to my son Andrew, and he is to provide for wintering her cows. She is also to have the use of a garden, and to keep 2 hogs, "and to have the apples in my orchard, and my son Andrew is to make them into syder." I leave to my eldest son Thomas the following parcels of land. One parcel lying west of the street, or road, beginning at the southerly corner, by Gilbert Millers, by said street, and running north along his land to Thomas Howell's land, to my upper lot, then east along said lot, as the fence stands, to King street, then down said street, along the road to Miller's land, where it begins. Also another piece, lying east of my homestead, beginning at the southerly corner thereof, and running north, as the fence stands, along my home lot, until it comes to the corner at the lane, then to run an equal breadth at each end to Byram river. My oldest son Thomas shall have out of my movable estate the sum of 25 shillings, in full bar as heir at law. I leave to my son Andrew, after the death or marriage of my wife, all my homestead and dwelling house, and all my land from my son, Thomas Lyon's land, along the street to Samuel Brown's land, northerly, including the house that my son Andrew has built and now dwelleth in. And so running along Samuel Brown's land and the land I have given to my son Thomas down to Byram river. Also my upper lot, opposite to my house, over the street, bounded south by Thomas' land and street, and east and north by street and Howell's land. Also all that my land lying between Samuel Brown's land and Byram river and running up the river by Joseph and Benjamin Williams land and Samuel Brown's land. Being 60 or 70 acres. Also all my 50 acres I have on the east side of Byram river, in Greenwich, Connecticut, lying joining to Gilbert Lyon's land and Mogers. It is my will that my land, meadow sedge, or Island or beach, which I have on Mamursing Island, in partnership with my son Andrew, be sold by executors, and I leave the money and the rest of movable estate to my children. I leave to the children of my daughter Phebe, late wife of Samuel Wilson, 1/5. To the children of my daughter Mary, late wife of Abraham Miller, deceased, 1/5. To Abigail, wife of Daniel Merritt, 1/5. To Jemima, wife of James Seaman, 1/5. To my son Andrew 1/5 and œ10 more. I make my sons, Thomas and Andrew, executors. Dated, November 5, 1770.
Witnesses, Jonathan Kniffen, John Carhart, school master, Samuel Lyons. Proved, December 13, 1770.
Page 540 - In the name of God, Amen. April 8, 1767. I, SARAH LYON, widow of Joseph Lyon, late of Rye, in Westchester County, being in good health. I leave to my two daughters, Phebe Miller and Amy Haines, all my wearing apparell and household goods; To the children [not named] of my daughter, Anne Budd, deceased, œ10 each. All the rest of my estate (except œ70, given by my husband to our grandson, Elisha Merritt), 1/3 to my daughter, Phebe Miller, 1/3 to my daughter, Amy Haines, and 1/3 to my grandsons, Joseph and Silvanus Merritt. "My grandson, Elisha Merritt, died before his grandfather, and under age." I leave to my grandson, William Merritt, $30. My negroes are to choose their masters. I make my grandsons, Joseph and William Miller, executors.
Witnesses, Andrew Meritt, Ezekial Halstead, John Carhart.
Codicil, January 3, 1769, makes Joseph Miller and John Townsend, of Mamaroneck, executors. Witnesses, Phebe Miller, Emey Haines, John Carhart. Proved January 30, 1769.
page 256 - In the name of God, Amen, January 25, 1759. I, George Merritt, of the Precinct of the Highlands, in Ulster County, yeoman, being sick. I leave to my wife Glorande œ20, and her bed and bedding and curtains, and a horse, saddle and bridle, and one room in my house and her maintainance out of my estate. I leave to my son Caleb 83 acres of land on the north side of the lands where I now live, "lying at a point of land commonly called Robins Point," and running west 40 rods wide till it makes 83 acres, Also all the lands at the White Plains that was given to my mother by the will of her grand father, Winfree Underhill. I leave to my son Humphrey "100 acres of land lying at the west side of my land across from Dubois, to Thomas Merritt's land, and running east till it makes 100 acres." I leave to my son Samuel 100 acres of land adjoining to my son Humphrey, and running from Dubois' land to Thomas Merritt's land, and so running east till it makes 100 acres. I leave to my son George 100 acres of land, adjoining to my son Samuel on the east side, from Dubois' land to Thomas Merritt's land. I leave to my son Gabriel and my son David all the rest of the lotment of land where I now live in Ulster County, and if any more land should be recovered to this lotment, I leave the same to my son Josiah. I make my 6 eldest sons executors, and they are to pay to my son Josiah œ10 each when they are 23 years of age. My lands at the White Plains which I had by my father are to be sold at discretion of my executors. All the rest of my movable estate, except my sons' horses, are to be sold, and after payment of debts I leave the rest to my daughters, Elizabeth, Glorande, and Jean. I make my wife, and my son Humphrey, and Samuel Fowler, executors. Witnesses, Thomas Merritt, John Bloomer, Joseph Bloomer, Sr.
dated 15 Jan 1759 & probated 23 March 1759
1760-1766 Volume 6
page 152 - In the name of God, Amen, December 2, 1759. I, Glorin Merritt, of the Precinct of the Highlands, in Ulster County, being very sick. I leave to my daughter Glorin my bed and furniture. I leave to my daughter Jane my saddle and bridle. I leave to my daughters, Elizabeth, Jane, and Glorin, all my wearing clothes. My horse is to be sold at the discretion of my executors, "and the money, and œ20 that I am to receive next spring from the estate of my husband by virtue of his will, is to be equally divided between my daughters Glorin and Jane and my son, Josiah Merritt, but the money is to be put at interest till they are of age." If all the said children should die, then I leave to my son, Caleb Merritt, 10 shillings, and the rest to be divided at the discretion of my executors. I make my son, Humphrey Merritt, and my brother, Samuel Purdy, executors. Witnesses, Martha Lathing, Stephen Purdy, farmer, Joseph Bloomer.
probated 18 October 1765.
Thomas was born circa 1634.1 Thomas married 2nd Jane Sherwood on 3 December 1656.1 Thomas's wife, Jane, died on 4 January 1685 in Rye, Westchester County, New York, leaving him a widower.1 Thomas married Abigail Francis on 13 August 1686 in Wethersfield, Hartford County, Connecticut.2 On 20 October 1688, an indenture was drawn between Thomas Merritt of Rye & John Welles of Wethersfield. In this indenture, Thomas was securing for himelf & Abigail in the township of Rye a home lot of about 5 acres. The purpose of this indenture was to protect Abigail's rights in case of Thomas' death.3 Thomas's wife, Abigail, died before 1696 in Rye, Westchester County, New York, leaving him a widower.1 Thomas married 3rd Mary Ferris, daughter of Jeffrey Ferris and Mary, in 1696 in Rye, Westchester County, New York.1 The family resided in Rye, Westchester County, New York.
Family 1 | Jane Sherwood b. 1636, d. 4 Jan 1685 |
Family 2 | Mary Ferris b. c 1640 |