GENEALOGY COLLECTION

E. B. Bennett 1842 Picture taken 1863

THE BENNETT FAMILY

1628-1910

By EDGAR B. BENNETT

EAST BERLIN, CONN.

E. B. Bennett, Publish ek

1910

H

1134348

PREFACE

Genealogies are proiilable, inasmuch as tliey are of great in- terest to all descendants, and become more and more so to future generations in tracing back their lineage.

There is a growing interest in many families in this respect, and family pride is increasing with a desire to know more of one's ancestors.

In this my first attempt to prepare a family genealogy, it has been my aim and purpose to make it as correct, accurate and complete as possible.

However, in some respects the work is incomplete, owing to the failure of a verj' few of the connections to respond to inqui- ries for information and data.

The design of this genealogy' is lo perpetuate the memory of our worthy ancestors, Kdward, Samuel, John, William and Cap- tain Thaddeus Bennett, and to gather in one volume the names of their many descendants.

I acknowledge myself indebted to many of the friends in fur- nishing information for this genealogy.

K. B. BENNETT.

East Berlin, Conn., April, 1910.

THE BENNETT FAMILY

INTRODUCTION

Not until tlie year 1907, when E. B. Bennett of East Berlin, Conn, went West to visit his brothers, whom he had not seen for fifty years, had a Family History ever been thought of. When he found how little the Bennetts in tiie West knew of their an- cestors, he, being from Connecticut, the original home of the Bennetts, decided to put into printed form the knowledge he could gain of the Bennett family. Since that time no time or money has been spared in his untiring efTorts to make this His- tory as complete as possible.

The main records of the Smith Bennett family were found in the old family Bible, which had been handed down and had fall- en into the possession of the widow of Charles H. Bennett — Mrs. Martha Conant of Garwin, Iowa.

Town Records and many Histories and Genealogies have been searched in order to learn more of our ancestors until 1 have found an unbroken line back to the landing of the first Bennetts from Weymouth, England, and their settling in Weymouth, Massachusetts, in 1628-1635.

Records of the Bennetts in England before these years have been found, but I have thought best not to follow them at this time.

Records of tlie Pension Department show the Bennetts to have taken part in their Country's cause in all Wars since tlieir landing.

THE BENNETT FAMILY

HISTORY

Bennetts of Pythouse Fane Eennett of Stanford, Vere Esq. of Pythouse. The fam- ily of Bennetts was founded by John Bennett, who was Sheriff of Wilts in the fifth year of Henry III. His great grandson, Thomas Bennett of Boston, married the daughter and co-heiress of the Pa^e of Devizes Wilts.

Records and Genealogies of New England

Tlie early settlers made Freeman, after a residence of seven years according to the laws of the country at that time, Edward Bennett at Weymouth, Mass., May 25, 1636. Records say he was Parser of the ship Mary Rose, which was accidentally blown up in Boston Harbor in 1648.

I<]dmond at Weymouth, Mass., May 25, 1636.

James at Concord, Mass., March 13, 1638.

Samuel at Lynn, Mass , 1637.

Richard at Boston, Mass., 1637.

William at Salem, Mass., 1637.

John at Salem, Mass., 1637.

This shows tliey were all here at least seven years, prior to their being made Freemen.

Matthew came in the "Paul" on July 6, 1635, by way of Lon- don, England.

Thomas came in the "American" in 1635.

Jane came in tlie "Elizabeth."

Ann Cooper Master came in 1635 at the age of 16 years and became the wife of William of Salem, Mass., and was admitted to the church there in 1648. Their children were Moses, Ann and Deliverance. William died on June 27, 1683.

It would be impossible for the writer to tell just how all of this family were related, but it is claimed by historians that Sam- uel was son of Edward. But Edward's children being born in England, it is a hard matter to get their records. The records show, however, that Mr. Edward Bennett had a muster of his servants on Februarj' 7, 1619, prior to sailing in 1621.

Rev. George S. Bennett of Boston, who has made a thorough search of the old records, states that Samuel was the son of Ed-

THE BENNETT FAMILY 7

ward, who came from Weymouth, England, and settled in Wey- mouth, Mass., and was there made a Freeman in 1636, after seven years' residence.

He also states that the children of Edward were Samuel, John, Priscilla, Edmond and Richard.

I find in the earlier records of 1618 that there were Thomas, Mary, Robert, Samuel, James and Katherine, the latter a widow with a three weeks' old child named William, who sailed for Jamestown, Va., in 1622. It is doubtful if they remained. This is sailing record from London.

Samuel Bennett, who was a house carpenter, came to this country by way of London, England, in the "James," and Wil- liam Bennett of Salem, Mass., testified before a justice court that Samuel and himself both came together in the "James" in 1630. Samuel settled in I^ynn, Mass., when he was nineteen years old and in 1639 he settled in Chelsea, Mass., where he owned a large farm, shop, windmill, etc. His wife's name was Mary.

Children :

Samuel, Richard, Klisha and Lydia.

John of Boston, son of Samuel, and a seaman in 1675, but where he was born or resided is not known. John and Anthony are credited to him on the records.

John of Stonington, son of John the seaman of Samuel, mar- ried Eliza Park. Children :

Eliza Patty.

John, born February 24, 1650 and died in 1654.

William, 1660.

John again, 1666.

Joseph, 1671.

Samuel.

Anthony, born November 12, 1679; died September 22, 1691.

William, son of John of Stonington, of John of Boston, of Samuel, married Susannah Bright. Children :

William, Henry, Samuel and Daniel.

William, son of William, of John, of John, of Samuel, mar- ried Abigal .

Children :

Deliverance, Joseph, Stephen, Thaddeus, Sarah and Abigal.

S THE BENNETT FAMILY

Captain Thaddeus Bennett was the son of William and Abi- gal Bennett, having three brothers, Deliverance, Joseph and Stephen, and two sisters, Sarah and Abigal. William, the fath- er, had two brothers, Samuel and Daniel, as he named them as executors of his will, which is on the probate records at Fairfield, (Jonn., where it can be found of August 5, 1772.

Probate Record of Fairfield, Conn., A. D. 1772. Will of William Bennett.

I give to my wife, Abigal, so much, to my son. Deliverance, to my son, Joseph, to my son, Stephen, to my son, Thaddeus, and daughter, Sarah, to my daughter, Abigal, to my four sons and my two daughters to share and share alike.

I appoint my brothers, Samuel and Daniel, as executors of mv Will.

STATE CAPITOL, HARTFORD, CONN.

Historical Records of Stratford, Conn.

Page 513, First Volume, 1639-1886

Captain Thaddeus Bennett, a shoemaker and farmer, was Captain of the trained band at the commencement of the Revo- lutionary War and went to New York with his Company in Au- gust, 1776, to defend the city against the British troops. His Company suffered considerable loss by death and the Caj^tain died soon after returning home from the campaign. He died on January 21, 1777, aged 52 years.

THE BENNETT FAMILY 9

He left two sons, Joseph Wilson Bennett and Thaddeus Ben- nett, and two daughters, Grizell and Sarah, both of whom were pensioners for the service of their husbands in the war. Grizell married Isaac Odell, who was a sergeant in the army, and Sarah married Nathan Fairchild.

Ebenezer Hall was a farmer and married for his second wife the widow of Captain Thaddeus Bennett. She was born in 1728 and died on November 16, 1815, aged 87 years.

Son of Captain Thaddeus and Elizabeth Bennett

Thaddeus 2nd was born in Stratford, Conn., August 23, 1758, and there, on February 28, 1782, married Martha or Patty Hall, daughter of David and Lydia Hall, who was born Dec. 3, 1760.

Thaddeus 2ik1 was a soldier of the Revolutionary War, serv- ing as a private in his father's company of Militia at Stratford, Conn., in the fall of 1776 served two months in New York City in Regiment commanded by Col. Jchabod Lewis ; in the autumn of 1777, three weeks at White Plains in the same company under Capt. Abijah Sterling ; in 1778 served eight months at Black Rock in the company of G. Ward, under Ensign Samuel Still- man ; in 1779 served twelve months at Mutton Lane in the com- pany commanded by Lieut. William Hall. (For copy of the original record in the Bureau of Pensions at Washington, see page 10.) When he was discharged and returned home he set- tled down and raised a large family — six boys and three girls. Children as follows :

David, born January 20, 1783 ; died August 8, 1868.

George, born July 15, 1785.

Elijah, born June 25, 1787.

Betsy, born March 7, 1789.

Thaddeus, born Ociober 17, 1790.

Lydia, born July 30, 1794.

Eli, born June 30, 1799.

Minerva, born January 13, 1802 ; died December 28, 1823.

Wildman, born July 20, 1804.

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THE BENNETT FAMILY

3-525

DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR

A. W.

Wed. File 17278 Bukeau of Pensions

Rev. War

Washington, D. C, Dec. 17, 1907. SiH :

Jn reply to your request of 7th inst. received 9th inst., for a statement of the military history of Thaddeus Bennett, a soldier of the Revolutionary War, you will find below the desired infor- mation as contained in his widow's application on Hie in this Bureau.

Dates of Enlistment or Appointment

Summer or

Fall of 1776 Fall of 1777 May 1, 1778 Jan. 1, 1779

Length of	Rank
Service
2mos. 3wks.	Private
8 mos. 12 mos.

Officers under whom service was rend'd

Thaddeus Bennett

his father' Ichabod Lewis

Abijah Sterling Ens. Sam'l Silliman Lieut. Wm. Hall Sam'l Whiting

Soldier's father Thaddeus died January 21, 1777, and his mo- ther Elizabeth, who afterwards married I']benezer Hall, died No- vember 16, 1815, aged 87 years.

P>attles engaged in, .

Residence of soldier at enlistment, Parish of Stratford, Fair- field, Fairfield County, Conn.

Dale of application for pension, July 2, 1840. Her claim was allowed:

Residence at date of application, Monroe, Fairfield Co., Ct.

Age at date of application ; she was born December 3, 1760, at Weston, Eairlield County, Conn.

Remarks. Soldier was born August 23, 1758, in Stratford Parish, Conn, and there married on February 28, 1782, Martha (or Patty), daughter of I.ydia and David Hall. Soldier died in New- ton, Fairfield County, Conn. , January 8, 1831. Children: Da- vid, born Jan. 20, 1783; George, born July 15, 1785; Elijah, born June 25, 1787; Betsy, born Mar. 7, 1789; thaddeus, born October 17, 1790; Lydia, born July 30, 1794; Eli, born June 30, 1799; Mi- nerva, borii Jan. 13, 1802, died Dec. 28, 1823; Wildman, born July 20, 1804. Very respectfully,

E. B. Bennett, E. Berlin, Ct. V. Warner, Com'r.

THE BENNETT FAMILY

11

Son of Thaddeus and Martha Hall Bennett

David Bennett, son of Thad- deus and Martha Hall Bennett, and grandson of Captain Thad- deus Bennett, was born in New- town, Fairfield County. Conn., on January 20, 1783. Here he re- ceived such education as was pro- curable at tliat time and learned the scythemaker's trade. All of his spare time was made use of with his books until he became qualified for the ministry and followed tlie Baptist faith, also teaching both district and pri- vate schools. He preached in Monroe, Newtown, Ashford aud at Manchester Green, Conn. He was married about 1805 or 1806 to Aner Minerva Smith and by tiiis union they had three boys and two girls: Smith, Mary Ann, William Henry, Minerva and Lioomis G. Aner Mi- nerva died about 1831. David married again, about 1832, Clarissa Farnham of Ashford, Conn. She was a school teacher and was born November 21, 1793. There were two boys by this union : Farnliam O. and Maurice B., who became noted physicians at Manchester Green.

David kept a store for quite a while, but sold out and on May 18, 1842, purchased a farm in Burlington, Conn., where he moved his family and resided there until 1864. Here he became school visitor and registrar of births, marriages and deaths and was also a judge of probate for a number of years. In 1864 he sold his farm to George Case of Burlington, Conn., and moved to Ashford and Westford, Conn., where he died on August 8, 1868. His wife died at Westford, Conn, on Jaimary 6, 1869, aged 76 years.

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THE BENNETT FAMILY

Son of David and Aner Minerva Smith Bennett

Smith Bennett, son of David and Aner Minerva Smith Ben- nett, M^as born in Monroe, Conn, on November 23, 1807 and died in Cheboygan, Mich, on July 11, 1875. He received a common school education and learned the blacksmith's and scythemaker's trades, at which he worked most- ly while living in Connecticut. In the spring of 1857 he went NYest and settled in Stump Town, now called Hitt, Carroll County, Illinois. In the fall of the same year, five of his sons with his fourth wife followed him, he hav- ing started in the blacksmith work there. Eli, his oUlest son, having learned the macliinist's trade, went into company with him in tlie repair work, remain- ing for about two years, when he was married and started in bus- iness for himself.

Smith, with his youngest son, George, drove a pair of horses through from Illinois to Palmyra, N. Y., where they settled, about 1863. George, the son, died here in 1864 and it is thought that Smith joined a New York regiment for army service in 1864. Smith was married four times. His first wife was a Miss Vorce, whom he married about 1827. She died, leaving him with a little daughter, Sarah M. Bennett.

His second wife was Electa M. Snow. She also died, leaving him a son three years old, Eli S. Bennett.

His third wile was Susan Snow of Ashford, Conn. She died in New Hartford, Conn, on May 5, 1851, leaving him with five small boys— Chas. H., Wm. L., Edgar B., Walter S. and Geo. W.

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13

His fourth wife was Caroline Vorce, who died in Camden, New Jersey, of old age.

Daughter of Smith Bennett and His First Wife

Sarali M. J5ennett was 1 orn in Connecticut on February 4, 1828 and died in Canton. Conn, on April 11, 1859. Her mother died when she was only an infant. She learned tlie tailor's trade at Canton and continued at ihat work until she married Josepli Andrus of Canton. Children :

Randolpli A. Andrus.

Jennie F. Andrus.

Frederick Andrus, who died in infancy.

Eli S. BEKiSETT 1838

Maky E. Bennett 1843

Son of Smith and Electa M. Si

Bennett

Eli S. Bennett was born in Monroe, Fairlield County, Conn. on May 5, 1833. He attended the district schcols in Monroe and upon leaving home, went to work in a niacliine shop in Pine Meadow in tlie town of New Hartford, Conn. He remained there until the spring of 1856, whien he went West and spent the summer in Elkliorn Grove, Ills., returning in the fall to New

14 THE BENNETT FAMILY

Hartford, where he worked in the macliine shop until Septem- ber, 1857. He then, together with four brothers, went to Stump Town, now called Hitl, Carroll County, Ills., to join their father, wlio had gone tliere in the spring. Eli worked with his father in the blacksmith and machine shop about two years, when he married Miss Mary 1^. Thorpe of Elkhorn Grove, Ills, on Sep- tember 17, 1859.

She was born in New York State on September 11, 1843, be- ing tlie daugliter of Caius and Catherine Vandurburgh Thorpe, who were of Coimeclicut stock. Her grandmother was born in Newtown, Conn., March 22, 1734. After their marriage they rented a farm wliere they lived until 1869, when he purchased a farm in Grant Townsliip, Tama County, Iowa. Here they re- mained until 1889, when lie bought a home in Reinbeck, Grundy County, Iowa, where they have since resided and where on the 17tli of September, 1909, they celebrated their golden wedding. Tlieir children :

Lucius C, born August 15, 1860; died January 3, 1863.

C!]iarles K., born November 9, 1863.

George (!., born April 9, 1866 ; died April 13, 1897.

Frank R., born August 13, 1868.

Aura E., born June 13, 1874.

Mary E., born Marcli 17, 1876.

Viva A., born May 21, 1879 ; died February 4, 1881.

Wilbur T., born October 26, 1884 ; died October 3, 1886.

Son of Eli S. and Mary Thorpe Bennett

Charles E. Bennett was born November 9, 1863, in Carroll County, Illinois and with his parents settled in Grant Township, Tama County, Iowa, in 1869. He attended private preparatory schools in Vinton and Traer, Iowa. He graduated from Leander Clark College, Toledo, Iowa, in 1888, receiving the degree of Bach- elor of Science. He taught school six years and was engaged in newspaper work for five years. In 1899 he entered the ministry of the Methodist Episcopal Church and completed the five years course of study prescribed by the Church in 1904. He is a mem- ber of the Des Moines Conference of Iowa.

On August 27, 1891, he married Elma Freet, who was born in Tama County, Iowa, on November 13, 1865. She is a daughter of Hiram and Percilia Myers Freet. Her father was born in Ohio and her mother in Iowa.

THK BENNETT FAMILY

Sylvia E. Bennett 1892

Chas. E. Bennett 1863 Elma Fkeet 1865

Clarence E. Bennett 1900

Children :

Sylvia E., born September 4, 1892, at Reinbeck, Iowa. Sbe is now a senior in tlie High School al Colo, Iowa, preparing for college.

Clarence E., born September 18, 1900, at Oakwood, Ills.

Son of Eli S. and Mary Thorpe Bennett George C. Bennett was born in Carroll County, Ills, on April 9, 1866. In the spring of 1869 he went West with his parents, who settled in Grant Township, Tama County, Iowa, wliere he attended the public schools and afterwards the High School in Reinbeck, Iowa. He made farming his business. He was mar- ried on February 25, 1896, to Lydia A. Freet. who was born on February 26, 1864 and was the daughter of Hiram and Priscilla Myers Freet. Early in the spring of 1897 he was taken sick, and died on April 13, 1897. His widow made her home with his par- ents until her marriage to David P. Eddy of Reinbeck, Iowa, on August 20, 1902.

16 THE BKKNK"

George C. Bennett 1866-1897

Son of Eli S. and Mary Thorpe Bennett

Frank R. Bennett was born in Fairfax Township, (Jarroll County, Ills, on August 13, 1868. In the spring of 1869 his par- ents moved to Grant Township, Tama Comity, Iowa. Here he attended the pubUe schools and later the High School at Glad- brook, Iowa. For a number of years he managed a large thresh- ing outlit and in 1891 settled in Reinbeck, Iowa, making paper hanging, painting and carpenter work his occupation.

On November 27, 1895, he married Minnie P. Morris, a school teacher, who was born in Carroll County, Ills, on February 10, 1875. She was the daughter of Edward and Kate Armstrong Morris. To this union a daughter, Dorothy M., was born on Oc- tober 9, 1897. The wife and mother died on March 23, 1899.

On January 17, 1905, he married for his second wife, Lois F. Osborn, who was born in Lyndon Township, Whiteside County, Ills, on April 13, 1868, She is the daughter of Harvey and Eliza- beth Brewer Osborn.

THE BENNETT FAMILY

17

Fkank R, Bennett 1868

Lois E. Osborn

Do HOT II Y Bennett ISOl

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THE BENNETT FAMILY

Minnie Morris Ekn.nett 1875-1899

Son of Eli S. and Mary Thorpe Bennett Aura E. Bennett was born June 13, 1874, in Grant Township, Tama CJounty, Iowa, wliere he attended the public schools and later the High school at Reinbeck, Iowa. Afterwards he took up mechanical engineering, which he followed until the breaking out of the Spanish-American War, when he enlisted in C!omi3any L, 49th Regiment, Iowa Volunteer Infantry, on JNIay 6, 1898, and served in the army of occupation in Cuba under General Fitz- Hugh Lee. He was discharged at Savannah, Ga. on May 13, 1899 and returning home, was engaged in structural iron work. On February 21, 1903, he married Emma R. Wagner, daughter of John and Amelia Dickerman Wagner, who was born in Grand Meadow, Mower County, Minn, on April 30, 1883. Children : Ralph W., born September 23, 1906. Ruth G., born in Reinbeck, Iowa, March 14, 1908.

Daughter of Eli S. and Mary Thorpe Bennett

Mary E. Bennett was born in Grant TownsJiip, Tama Coun- ty, Iowa, on March 17, 1876. She attended tlie public schools and later tlie High School at Reinbeck, Iowa, where she gradua- ted with honors in 1893. On November 27, 1895, she married Don C. Coffin, son of Charles H. and Iilstlier Sharp Cofltin, who was born in Butlerville, Tama County, Iowa, on July 28, 1872.

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19

E.MMA R. Wagnkk 1S83

Aura E. Bennett 1874 Ralph W. 1906 Ruth 1908

Don C. Coffin 1876

Mary E. Bennett 1876

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THK HKNNKTT FAMIIA"

Chas. II. J^K.NXKTT LSoiMSSo Martha Bennett 1846 Son of Smith and Susan Snow Bennett

Charles H. Eennett, oldest son of Smith and Susan Snow Keniiett, was born in Monroe, Fairfield County, Conn., June 1, 1839. His boyhood days were spent in Connecticut, but in 1857, with his fatlier and brothers, lie removed to I'^llchorn Grove, Ills. and worked on a farm and clerked in a store until September 13, 18G1, when he enlisted in Company H, 7th Illinois Cavalry and served his country until July 20, 1862. He was then discharged on account of iiliysical disability which developed into a chronic heart trouble from which he never recovered.

On September 13, 1864, he married Martha Jiurnett, daugh- ter of Joshua and Christiana Barr l^urnett of Elkhorn Grove, Ills., who was born March 14, 1846. They settled on a farm in Wysox, wliere they continued to live until his death.

Their children were Alice May, who was born September 23, 1865 and George Wilbur, born August 2, 1869.

In October, 1880, he was stricken with paralysis, from whicli he never fully recovered, and on September 12, 1885, a tliird shock ended his life. He was buried in the Union Cemetery at Wysox, the funeral being in charge of Sliiloh Post, G. A. R. of Lanark, Ills, and lianark Lodge, I. O. O. F., of which organiza- tions he was a member.

THE BENNETT FAMILY 21

Maktiia Conant 1846

Makion Conant 1852

Martha Burnett Bennett married for lier second husband, on February 18, 1904, Marion A. Conant. He is the son of Dr. VVilliani L. Conant and was born on April 8, 1862, in St. Joseph County, Michigan. With his parents he went to Tama County, Iowa, where they settled on a farm in 1855. Here he attended school and worked on the farm until he became of age, when he married and bought one hundred and sixtj' acres of his father's farm, which lie worked for a number of years. He finally rent- ed his farm and built a nice home in Garwin, Iowa, three miles away. His first wife died in 1901. His father was born in Ply- mouth, Vt. and served in the Civil War.

Daughter of Charles H. and Martha Burnett Bennett

Alice M. Bennett was born in P^^lkhorn Township, Carroll County, Ills., on September 23, 1865. She attended the public schools, later graduating froni the Lanark High School. She af- terwards became a school teacher. On March 8, 1886, she mar- ried Thomas N. Fleming, also a teacher in Carroll County, and they continued teaching for several years, finally settling in Mil- ledgeville, Ills., where they now reside.

22

THE BENNETT FAMILY

TH(

N. Fleming 1848

AUSTA

Ruth

Alice Fleming 1865

1889 1897

Two (laufj,h1ei>; were born to them, Ausla M. on May 21, 1889 and Martlia RuUi on September 14, 1897.

Ausla Rradualed from the Milledgeville scliools with the class of 1907, clerked for awhile in a store and at present is em- ployed in the post office. Ruth is still attending sciiool.

Son of Charles H. and Martlia Burnett Bennett George W. liennett was born August 2, 1869, in J^^ikhorn Grove Township, Carroll County, Ills. Here he attended the public schools and later the Higli School at liaiiark. Ills., then a business course at Davenport, Iowa. He then accepted a posi- tion as express messenger on the C. B. & Q. R. R., but being in a wreck on the railway he changed his mind and went to Cali- fornia, where he is now employed as an assayer and manager of an agency for the Risdon Iron Works Company, manufacturers of gold dredging machinery.

Son of Smith and Susan Snow Bennett William L. Bennett was born March 20, 1841, in Monroe, Conn. In 1857, with four of his five brothers, he left (Jonnecticut and settled in Elkhorn Grove Township, Carroll County, Ills.,

THE BENNETT FAMILY

23

William L. Bennett 1841

Sakah E. Bennett 1849

where he woil^ed as a farm hand until October 6, 1864, wlien he enlisted in ("ompany I, 92nti Regiment, Illinois Volunteer Infan- try. He served with this company until the following June, when it was consolidated with Company G, 65th Regiment, Illi- nois Veteran Volunteers. He received his discharge July 13, 1865, after having been with General Hherman's army on the march to the sea. On March 1, 1875, he married (Sarah E.Tay- lor, who was born February 16, 1849. Her father served during the Civil War in Company G, 2nd Pennsylvania Cavalry. In 1881 they moved to Mt. Carroll, Ills. Soon after William's re- turn from the army, his eyesight commenced to fail him, the trouble increasing until 1904, when he became totally blind. Children:

Carrie M.. born May 21, 1877.

Charles O., born December 23, 1878.

William W., born Maich 14, 1884.

Avadna A., born April 22, 1886.

Daughter of William L. and Sarah Taylor Bennett

Carrie M. Bennett was born May 21, 1877, in Wysox Town- ship, Carroll County, Ills. She attended the public schools in Mt. Carroll, Ills., graduating with honors from the High School

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THE BENNKTT FAMILY

Charles O. Eexnett 1878 Maky E. Bennett 1880

in 1896. After teacliing school one term, slie married George Wacker, a well lo do farmer, the son of Pliiiip and Anna KafT- nian Wacker of Woodland Township, Carroll County, Ills., on June 29, 1902. They have one daughter, Ethel Estella, who was born April 22, 1908."

Son of William L. and Sarah Taylor Bennett

Cliarles O. Bennett was born December 23, 1878, in Wysox Township, Carroll County, Ills. He attended the public and High schools in Mt. Carroll, Ills, and later engaged in newspaper work, being at one time proprietor of a pai)er in Chadwick, Ills. He is now in the employ of his father-in-law, w'ho is with the Wells-Fargo Express Company and owner of a large omnibus line in Mt. Carroll. On November 27, 1902, he married Mary Es- tella Stiteley, daughter of Winfield Scott and Ruhamah Mitchell Stiteley, who was born April 27, 1880, in Mt. Carroll, Ills.

Daughter of William L. and Sarah Taylor Bennett

Avadna A. Bennett was born April 22, 1886, in yit. Carroll, Ills. She attended the public schools and spent two years in the High School, after which she took up newspaper work, in which she is now engaged.

THE BENNETT FAMILY

25

Gkokge W. Bennett 1869

A\Ai>NA A. 1>kxm<:tt 1S86

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THE BEKKETT FAMILY

Edgak B. Bexxett 1842

Son of William L. and Sarah Taylor Bennett

William W. Bennett was born March 14, 1884, in Mt. Carroll, Ills. He attended the public schools and later spent two years in the High School, after which he went to work as clerli in a store. He married Bertha Atherton, daughter of Lucius and Helen Balcom Atherton, who was born April 3, 1882, in York Town- ship, Carroll Township, Ills.

Son of Smith and Susan Snow Bennett

Edgar B. Bennett was born November 2, 1842, in Monroe, Conn. He has always lived in Connecticut except during the Civil War. He enlisted under the first call for volunteers of April 15, 1861, but was debarred from going by reason of the fact that no more three months troops were wanted. Under the call of May 3, 1861, he enlisted from Burlington, Conn, in Company K, 1st Connecticut Heavy Artillery and on November 11, 1863, re-enlisted as a veteran. He remained with his company until March 25, 1865, when he was taken prisoner in front of Peters- burg and confined in Libby Prison until March 30, when he was paroled. After a thirty days furlough he returned to his compa-

THE BENNETT FAMILY 27

Mary E. Bennett 1849

ny and was mustered out of service at Fort Lyons, Va. on Sep- tember 25, the war being over, receiving his discharge at Hart- ford, Conn, on October 1. On April 9, 1865, while on parole, he married Mary E. Marsh, daughter of Lewis and Evaline Stone Marsh, who was born in Nortlifield, Conn., July 7, 1849. Her great grandfather, Othniel Gillett, served in the Revolutionary War from Connecticut. For details as to her parentage, see the Marsh Genealogy of 1895, page 61. Children :

Minerva S., born in Burlington, Conn., January 9, 1867.

lola E., born in Burlington, Conn., October 28, 1870.

Daughter of Edgar B. and Mary Marsh Bennett

Minerva S. Bennett was born in Burlington, Conn., January 9, 1867. On July 16, 1888, she married Arvid Kalilstrom, who was born July 21, 1869. He died July 5, 1896. Children :

Ethel Alma, born in Burlington, Conn., May 31, 1890. She expects to graduate from the Derby, Vt., Academy in June, 1910.

Lewis Samuel, born in Burlington, Conn., February 9, 1893.

THE BENNETT FAMILY

James J. Nichols 1855 Minerva S. Nichols 1867

Ethel, Lewis J, and Edgar C. Kahlstrom. Willard J., Helen M., Rose M., Myron E. and Vera B, Nichols

Edgar C. A., born in Burlington, Conn., June 1, 1896. He is now attending the American Scliool for the Deaf at Hartford, Conn., his affliction being the result of an attack of cerebrospinal meningitis when he was a year and nine months old.

Minerva Bennett Kahlstrom married for her second husband, James J. Nichols, who was born in Brownington, Vermont, on March 9, 1855. They were married at Cheshire, Conn., October 27, 1897.

Children :

Willard James, born in Burlington, Conn., Dec. 19, 1898.

Helen May, born in Burlington, Conn., October 17, 1901.

Rose Mary, born in Brownington, Vt., September 22, 1904.

Myron Karl, born in Brownington, Vt., December 13, 1906.

Vera Bessie, born in Brownington, Vt., September 11, 1908.

Daughter of Edgar B and Mary Marsh Bennett

lola E. Bennett was born in Burlington, Conn., October 28, 1870. On September 5, 1907, she married James F. Murphey,son of John and Mary Murphey, who was born in Cromwell, Conn., April 12, 1874.

THE BENNETT FAMILY 29

loLA E. Bennett 1870 James F. Mukphey 1874

Son of Smith and Susan Snow Bennett

Walter S. Bennett was born in Monroe, Conn., June 16, 1844. In 1857, with four of his brothers, he M-ent to Elkhorn Grove, Ills, and in 1859 went to Kalamazoo, Mich., and followed farm- ing until September 1, lg62, when he enlisted in Company L, 5th Michigan Cavalry. He served under General Sheridan in the Shenandoah valley and was at Appomattox when General Lee surrendered. He w as discharged June 22, 1865, and went back to Kalamazoo. After a few years he went to Wayland, Mich., and later returned to Kalamazoo, where on May 1, 1872, he married Evelyn A. Blodgett, only daughter of Jared and Jane Chaffee Blodgett, who was born in Pavilion, Kalamazoo County, Mich., October 16, 1848. Her grandfather served in the War of 1812 and her great grandfather in the Revolutionary War from Vermont. They lived near Kalamazoo for about ten years, when he bought a farm near Wayland, Mich., where they still reside. Children :

Earl J., born October 20, 1872.

Hallie J., born August 6, 1874 ; died December 30, 1907.

Arthur C, born September 13, 1877.

Sarah B., born October 13, 1884.

Evelyn M., born June 15, 1886.

Clell R., born May 18, 1891.

THE BENNETT FAMILY

EvEFA'N A. Bennett 1848 Waetek S. Eennett 1844

Son of Walter S. and Evelyn Blodgett Bennett

Karl J. lieniiell was b;)ni October 20, 1872, in Comstock Township, Kalaniaz-oo County, Mich., later moving with his jia- rents to Hopkins Township, Allegan County. On December 21, 1893, he married Myrtle Humaclier,(laugiiterofGeorgeand Liana Pitmoyer Hamacher. Children :

Bertha L., born June 8, 1895.

Henry A., born December 8, 1897.

Fred \V., born June 7, 19UU.

Gretchen A., born June 24, 1904.

Daughter of Walter S. and Evelyn Blodgett Bennett

Hallie J. Bennett was born August 6, 1874, in Portage Town- ship, Kalamazoo County, Mich., afterwards moving with her pa- rents to Hopkins Township, Allegan County. On December 29, 1892, slie married Allie C. Fryne. They had one child — Harry A., who was born February 12, 1895, in Hopkins, Mich. She died on December 30, 1907.

THK BKXXK'

Arthur C. Bknnett 1877 Vkkna Bknnett 1879 Grant 1896 Evelyn 1902

Son of Walter S. and Evelyn Blodgett Bennett

Arthur C. Bennett was born September 13, 1877, in Portage Township, Kalamazoo County, Mich. On January 18, 1896, he married Verna Mudgett, daughter of Herman and May Burlin- game Mudgett.

Children ;

Grant M., born in Hopkins, July 16, 1896.

Evelyn M., born in Otsego, July 18, 1902.

Daughter of Walter S. and Evelyn Blodgett Bennett

Sarah B. Bennett was born October 13, 1884, in Hopkins Township, Allegan County, Mich. On March 14, 1896, she mar- ried Orville Truax, who was born in 1884. He died August 6, 1908. They had one child, J. Orville, who w as born November 15, 1908, in Hopkins, Mich.

Daughter of Walter S. and Evelyn Blodgett Bennett Evelyn M. Bennett was born June 15, 1886, in Hopkins Town- ship, Allegan County, Mich. She graduated from the High School in Way land, Mich. On December 23, 1908, she married Walter Hazen of Hopkins, Mich., who was born in 1885. They have one child, Holden Walter, who was born April 21, 1910.

32

THE BENNETT FAMILY

Ohville Truax 1884-1908 Sarah Bennett 1885 J. OuviLLE Tkuax 1908

Walter H. Hazkn 1885

Evelyn M. Bennett 1886

THE HKNMOTT KAMI [A*

33

Clell R. Bennett 1S91

Geo. W. Bennett 1846-1864

34

THE BEKNKTT FAMILY

William Henky Bennett 1824-190U

Emily Healey Bennett 1829-1908

Son of Walter S. and Evelyn Blodgett Bennett

Clell R. Bennett, youngest child of Walter S. and Evelyn Blodgett Bennett, was born May 18, 1891, in Hopkins Township, Allegan County, Mich.

Son of Smith and Susan Snow Bennett

George W. Bennett was born August 18, 1846, in Connecti- cut. In 1857, he went to Elkhorn Grove, Ills., with his brothers and lived there until I860, when he went with his father to Pal- myra, N. Y., where he died in 1864.

Son of David and Aner M. Smith Bennett

William Henry Bennett was born July 5, 1824. On April 2, 1843, he married Emily Melissa Healey, who was born May 27, 1829. They settled in Danbury Conn., where they spent the rest of their life. His death occurred February 4, 1900 and her's De- cember 1, 1908.

Children :

Frederick William, born Jan. 4, 1849 ; died April 17, 1884.

Frank Henry, born September 25, I860.

THE BENNETT FAMILY 35

Son of William H. and Emily Healey Bennett Frederick William Bennett w as born January 4, 1849, in Dan- bury, Conn. He graduated with the degree of M. D. from the Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons in New York City, and in 1874 commenced the practice of medicine in Brewster, N. Y. He removed from there to Newark, N. J. and later to Bloomfield, N. J., where he died on April IT, 1884. He married Josephine Harvey, who is also deceased.

Son of William H. and Emily Healey Bennett Frank Henry Bennett was born September 25, 1863, in Dan- bury, Conn. He graduated from the High School and Colgate Academy and received the degrees of A. B. and A. M. from Col- gate University and the degree of A. B. from Harvard. He taught in several preparatory and High schools, being for seven years principal of the Danbury High School. He is now principal of the Brewster, N. Y., High School. On June 27, 1905, he mar- ried Helen Vaille Ives, daughter of Harlan P. and IClvira E. Ives.

Elizabeth Emily, born May 5, 1906. XJLo^o4:0

Frederick Harlan, born August 30, 1907.

Daughter of David and Aner M. Smith Bennett

Minerva Bennett was born in 1825. She was a scholar of note and commenced teaching at the age of seventeen, filling positions in New Britain, Canton and Farmington continuously until her marriage to John R. Andrus, which occurred in Burlington, Conn., November 21, 1858. They had one child, Minnie, who died at the age of one year. Minerva died June 10, 1868, in Coi- linsville. Conn.

Son of David and Aner M. Smith Bennett

Loomis G. Bennett was born in Connecticut in 1831. His younger days were spent in New York State, with his uncles, Eli, Thaddeus and Wildman. He died in VVestford, Conn, in 1878, aged 47 years, eleven months and twenty-eight days.

86

THE BENNETT FAMILY

i.Mis Eknnktt 1881-1878

Minerva Bennett 1825-1868

Son of David and Clarissa Farnham Bennett Farnham Orris Bennett, M. D., was born December 21, 1833 in Monroe, Conn. He received his early education in the district schools at Burlington, Conn., wliere he removed with his parents in 1842. He soon became a teacher and, desiring to better his ed- ucation, worked on tlie farm summers and taught school winters. He gratluated with the degree of M. D. from the Berkshire Medi- cal College on November 22, 1859 and took a two years' course in surgery in New York City. Immediately after graduation he be- gan the practice of medicine at Westford, Conn, and soon became one of the leading physicians of Windham County. He was twice elected to the Legislature by his fellow towns-people and held several offices of trust in the State, County and town. About 1880 his practice liad grown to such an extent at Willimantic that he removed there to save the long drives over tire country roads and also to have better educational facilities for his child- ren. He died at Danielson, Conn., March 26, 1899.

On September 15, 1868, he married Romelia Parsons, daugh- ter of William L. and Margaret Parsons of Rutland, Vt., who was born in Springfield, Mass., February 12, 1851, and died at Fort Collins, Colorado, December 31, 1907.

THE BENNETT FAMILY

37

Farnham O. Bknxktt 1833-1899

RoMEl-JA KeXNKTT

1851-1907

Cliildren : William Howard, born Hepleniber 7, 1869. Frederick Ward, born July 16, 1871. Anne Louise, born July 16, 1877.

Son of Farnham O. and Rcmelia Parsons Bennett William H. l^ennett was born f^eptember 7, 1869. in West- ford, Conn. Later he removed with his parents to Willimantic, where he attended tlie public scliools and graduated from the High School. On June 19, 1894, lie married Margaret Curran, daughter of Daniel F. and Katherine H. Grinnell Curran, of Rockville, Conn. Children ; Clarissa Farnham, born in Hartford, Coim., Nov. 14, 1895. William Howard, born in Danielson, Conn., Feb. 19, 1901.

Son of Farnham O. and Romelia Parsons Bennett Frederick Ward Bennett was born July 16, 1871, in Rutland, Vermont. He attended the public schools and spent two years

dS THE BENNETT FAMILY

in the High School at Willimantic, Conn, later taking a two years' course at the Fort Collins, Colorado, College, 1888-9. After this he returned East and engaged in P'lectrical and Mechanical Engineering. On January 20, 1895, at Attleboro, Mass., he mar- ried Barbara Louise Dotzert, daughter of John and Mary Leon- ard Dotzert, who was born at Broadbrook, Conn., June 11, 1871. Children :

Frederick Orris, born in Providence, R. I., May 2, 1896.

Byron Leonard, born May 3, 1898 ; died October 17, 1898.

Myra Louise, born April 28, 1902.

Daughter of Farnham O. and Romelia Parsons Bennett

Annie Louise Bennett was born July 11, 1877, at Westford, Conn. She graduated from the Willimantic High School, June 19, 1896, and from the Hartford Business College in July, 1897. From September, 1897, to June, 1902, she taught in the public schools of Fort Collins, Colorado. On June 10, 1902, she married Bertram Alden Gage of Fort Collins, Colorado.

Son of David and Clarissa Farnham Bennett

Maurice Boardman Bennett, M. D., was born March 4, 1837, at Bolton, Conn. He lived in Manchester, Conn, until May 18, 1842, when he removed with his parents to Burlington, Conn., where his early days were passed on the farm. Acquiring his ed- ucation in the district schools, he soon became noted as one of the foremost teachers in his section, by his ability to discipline and method of interesting his pupils in their work. He worked on the farm summers and taught school winters, until he secured the necessary funds for a professional education. He attended the Connecticut Literary Institute at Suffield, Conn, and studied medicine with his brother, Dr. Farnham O. Bennett, who was at that time located at Westford Conn. Later on he graduated with the degree of M. D. from the Berkshire Medical (.'ollege, Pitts- field, Mass., and began practicing medicine in November, 1863, at Ashford, Conn. Afterwards he located in Coventry, Conn, and became one of the leading physicians in that .section of the State. He held with credit to himself, many offices of trust in the community. About 1883, his health having become impaired by his many long rides over the country roads, he removed to

THE BENKKTT FAMILY

Mai'kjce B. Bennett 18B7-1894

Mary E. Bennett 1851-1909

Bristol, Conn., where he practiced his profession nearly to the time of his death, which occurred November 13, 1894.

On December 31, 1867, he married Mary Elizabeth French, only daughter of Daniel A. and Dorcas Bissell French. 8he was born March 9, 1851, in EUenville, Ulster County, N. Y. When quite young she removed with her parents to Coventry, Conn., where she attended the public schools, finishing her education at the Connecticut Literary Institute in 8uffield, Conn. After her husband's death in 1894, she continued to live with her son. Bur- ton L. Bennett, until about 1900, when she removed to Middle- town, Conn., making her home with her daughter, Mary E. Bennett, until the time of her death, which occurred on Novem- ber 8, 1909.

Children :

Burton Lin wood, born December 6, 1870.

Mary Elizabeth, born September 27, 1877.

Son of Maurice B. and Mary French Bennett

Burton Lin wood Bennett was born December 6, 1870, in Cov- entry, Conn. He attended the public schools there until about 1884, when he removed with his parents to Bristol, Conn., where he completed his public school studies and graduated from the

40

THE BENNETT FAMILY

Burton L. Bknnktt 1870

High School with tlie class of 1888. Afler graduating he worked as a drug clerk for three years and then entered the New York College of Pharmacy wliere he graduated in 1895 with the degree of Graduate of Pharmacy and honorable mention. Returning to Bristol, he went into tiie drug business for himself, locating on North Main street in July, 1896. On November 18, 1896, he mar- ried Isabelle May Mather, daughter of James Talcotl Mather— di- rect descendant of Cotton Mather — and Elizabeth Hall Mather of Essex, Conn. Children :

Marjorie Mather, born July 24, 190-'>.

Doris May, l)orn March 8, 1906.

Daughter of Maurice B. and Mary French Bennett

Mary Elizabeth Bennett was born September 27, 1877, in Cov- entry, Conn. In 1884 she removed with her parents to Bristol, Conn., where she graduated from the High School in April, 1896. In September of the same year, she entered the art department of Pratt Institute, Brooklyn, N. Y., where she studied artfortwo years. In the fall of 1898 she secured the position of Supervisor of Drawing in the public schools of Middletown, Conn., which position she still holds, also holding the same position in the Portland and Gildersleeve schools.

APPENDIX

On the following pages are extracts from the records of the Connecticut Historical Society and from those of the States of Connecticut, New York, Rhode Island and Massachusetts, giv- ing lists of members of the Bennett family who have taken part in the various wars that have occurred since the settlement of New England. These lists are necessarily incomplete, but they will furnish material for any who may desire to go deeper into the genealogy of the family than we have gone in this volume.

Names of Connecticut Bennetts Who Served in the French Indian War, 1755-1762

tnd

Abraham	Benjamin	Charles
David	Daniel, Jr.	Deliverance
Ebenezer	Francis	Gabriel
Guresham	Hezekiah	Hink
Isaac	Jacob	Jeremiah
John	Josiah	Lewis
Nathan	Nehemiah	Samuel
Stephen	Thaddeus	William
Christopher	Moses	Peleg

THE BENNETT FAMILY

Connecticut Bennetts Who Served in the Revolutionary War

Abel	Amos	Asa
Daniel	Daniel, Jr.	Ebenezer
Ellas	Elijah	Elisha
Hezekiah	Isaac	Jacob
Jedediah	Jeremiah	Jesse
Joshua	Nathaniel	Roswell
Samuel	Stephen	Toby
Trowbridge	Zebulon	Benjamin
Charles	David	Ephraim
Ezekiel	James	Job
John	Joseph	Josiah
Najah	Oliver	Robert
Rufus	Temperance	William
Deliverance	Jabin	Aaron
Nathan	Capt. Thaddeus	Thaddeus 2nd
Oliver and Rufus	were at the Wyoming	Massacre in 1778.

THE BENNETT FAMILY

48

Connecticut Bennetts Who Served in the War of 1812

Elijah Abel (3) Abijah

Andrew Charles G. Daniel

Eben Ebenezer Eleazer

Eli Elisha Erastus

Grafton Isaac Ira

James James, Jr. James W.

John (2) Jonathan Joseph T.

Lewis Munson Oliver

Origan Ozias M. Philo

Primous Sherrybiah Stephen

Thaddeus \V. William Wilson

Arnold, Joshua and Stephen served in the militia. Ashael M., Henry, Hosmer, William and William H. served in the Regular Army during the Mexican War.

^

44

THE BENNETT FAMILY

Connecticut Bennetts Who Served in	the Civil War. 1861-65
Aaron	Frank-	Nathaniel W,
Abner	Frederick A.	Nelson B.
Abner V.	George	Noble H.
Alfred	George A.	Norridon
Charles	George D.	Oliver G.
Charles 2nd	George H.	Patrick
Charles G.	George M.	Peter
Charles H.	Henry D.	Richard
Daniel G.	Horatio N.	Robert
Daniel K.	James E.	Samuel
Darius	Jerome	Seth D.
David P.	Jesse	Stewart C.
Ebenezer	John	Syra P.
Edgar B.	John A.	Theodore F.
Edgar H.	John D.	Thomas B.
Edward	John H.	Thomas G.
Edward G.	Joseph	Thomas H.
Edwin	King G.	William
Edwin L.	Marcus F.	William C.
Elisha	Michael	William H.
Francis J.	Nathan
	These Served in the Navy
Adolphus	Francis, Jr.	Henry
James N.	Patrick	Perkins C.
Stephen M.	William E.

These Served in the Spanish=American War, 1898=99-

cis A., Lewis J., Clarence O., Lewis L. and Patrick.

Fran-

THE BEKNETT FAMILY

45

New York Bennetts	Who Served in	the Revolutionary War
Amacy	Jonathan	Jeremiah
Lieut. Amos	Joseph	John
Amos	Mitchel	Samuel
Banger	Nathan	Timothy
Benjamin	Owen	William
Bildacl	Richard	Ephraim
Charles	Robeson	Francis
David	Robinson	Joshua
Edward	Simon	Mattqew
Elihu	Thaddeus	Thomas
Ezra	Thomas	Ephraim
Henry	Timothy	Ephraim, Jr.
, Isaac	WilUara	James
Isaiah	Abraham	Jeremiah
Jabin	Charles	John
James	Gamaliel	Timothy
Jeremiah	Henry	James
Jesse	Jacob	John

46

THE BENNETT FAMILY

Rhode Island Bennetts Who Served in the Revolutionary War

Abel	Asa	Asaph
Asel	Asher	Benjamin
Christopher	Daniel	David
Edward	Ezra	Elisha
Godfrey	Henry	Hezekiah
Hosea	James	Job
John	Jonas	Joseph
Laban	Matthew	Micajah
Nathaniel	Philip	Phineas
Robert	Saben	Samuel
Stephen	Thomas	Timothy
Weaver	William

THK BENNETT FAMILY 47

Massachusetts Bennetts Who Served in the Revolutionary War There are on the Revolutionary War records of the tSlate of Massachusetts, nearly three hundred of the names Bennett, Ben- net, Bennit, who were soldiers and sailors from that State during that period. Following are a few of them from the records in the office of the Adjutant General :

Lieut. Bennett Gideon Deliverance

Jeremiah James Robert

John Aaron Nehemiah

James Rola William

The old records also show that Richard; son of Peter Bennett, received pay from the town of Dedham, Mass., for his services in King Philip's War in 1676.

48 THE BENNETT FAMILY

Some Notable Members of the Bennett Family

Reference lo the encyclopedias shows that several members of the Bennett family have become noted in one way or another. It is not known what degree of relationship they have borne to our branch of the family, but it is thought that brief mention of some of them might prove of interest to the possessors of this volume.

Henry Bennett, Earl of Arlington, a distinguished statesman in the reign of Charles II., was born of an ancient family in Mid- dlesex, England, in 1618. In the beginning of the civil war he was appointed under-secretary to Lord Digby, secretary of state. He afterwards entered himself as a volunteer for the royal cause, and did the king good service, especially at Andover in Hamp- shire, where he was severely wounded. He was made secretary to the Duke of York, received the honor of knighthood from Charles II. at Bruges in 1658, and was sent as envoy to the court of Spain. Upon the return of the king to England he was called home, made keeper.of the privy purse, and principal secretary of state. In 1670 he was of the council distinguished by the title of the Cabal, and one of those who advised the shutting up of the exchequer. In 1672 he was made Earl of Arlington and Viscount Thelford, and soon after knight of the garter. He died in 1685.

Sir William Sterndale Bennett was born in 1816 at Shetlield, England, where his father was organist. In 1826 he entered the Royal Academy of Music and remained a pupil of that institu- tion for ten years. He was made musical professor at Cambridge and in 1868 principal of the Royal Academy of Music. In 1871, he received the honor of Knighthood. He tiled in 1875 and was buried in Westminsier Abbey. For the last twenty years of his life he was considered the greatest musician in England.

John Hui^hes Bennett, for twenty-six years professor of the institutes of medicine in Edinburgh University, was born in Lon- don in 1812. He became an able teacher and his original investi- gations gained for him a high place in the history of medicine. He died in 1875.

THE BENNETT FAMILY 49

James Gordon Bennett, founder of the New York Herald, was born about 1800 at Newmills in Banflshire, Scotland. Des- tined for the priesthood in the Roman Calholie Church, he was educated in a seminary at Aberdeen, but it became evident that he was naturally unlit for the priestly calling and his aversion ripened into a determination to escape from it. The reading of Franklin's Autobiograiihy led him to resolve on emigration to America and in the spring of 1819 he went to Halifax. After a short time he went to Boston and in 1822 located in New York City, where he was engaged in journalism for several years. On May 6, 1835, he issued the first number of tiie New York Herald, which has become one of the best known and most influential newspapers in the world. The successful mission of Stanley to Central Africa in search of Dr. Livingstone, of whom nothing had long been heard, was undertaken by Bennett's desire and at his expense, and he thus showed in the last year of his life the inextinguishable spirit of enterprise which had animated him throughout his whole career. He died in 1872.

James Gordon Bennett once wrote: "The Bennetts were a little band of Freebooters, A. D. 896, in Saxony. I have no doubt they robbed and plundered a good deal. They emigrated to France and settled on the river Loire, where they lived several hundred years. The family was Roman Catholic and later, of the Church of England." That Mr. Bennett's statement is true, may readily be believed, for one thousand years ago Europe was given over to pillage, and the strong showed the weak no consid- eration. Perhaps the sturdy Bennett tribe owed its continued existence to the fact of its extreme tenacity of purpose and the in- ability of others to crush it out. At that time liondon was occu- pied by the Danes, Englishmen were herdsmen and cattle-steal- ing very much the fashion. This Saxon tribe was probably no worse than its neighbors. Be this as it may, the family in Eng- land, during the reign of Charles II. had assumed considerable importance, a Sir Henry Bennett being private secretary to the King.— S. B. Bennett.

50 THE BENNETT FAMILY

8. a. Bennett of Pittston, Pa., a few years ago published a genealogy of his branch of the family, in which he traces his ancestry back to Edward Bennett of Weymouth, Mass. Inalet- ter to the compiler of this book he says : "I am in receipt of your latest letter and .... it substantiates my theory that the 'Providence Plantation' contained the Bennett Hive, and from this they multiplied and swarmed to New York, Pennsylvania, Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, and of course for purposes to get a living Rhode Island and Connecticut are practically one. The constant repetition of family names is a strong point, espec- ially when such an unusual one as Thaddeus. Son of my Great Grandfather Ephraim was undoubtedly cousin to some of those you mention, and was born along 1750 to 1765, but this is theory mainly .... Among the pictures sent are some who have the iiennett cast of countenance, notably David, 1783, Eli S., 1833 and \V. H. B., 1841. I have a picture of my father at about 70 years ; the resemblance to David is quite striking."

Other Bennetts mentioned in the encycloj^edias are : Orlan- do Bennett, American wrecker, 1818-1880; Richard Bennett, Co- lonial Governor of Virginia from 1652 to 1656; Charles Wesley Bennett, an American educator, journalist and author, 1828-1891 ; Emerson Bennett, an American author, born 1822; Milo Lyman Bennett, an American jurist and author, 1790-1868; Thomas W. Bennett, an American soldier and statesman, born 1831 ; William Zebina Bennett, an American chemist and educator, born 1856 ; William Bennett, Bishop of Cloyne, 1745-1820. iS. B. Bennett of Pittston, Pa. states that more than one hundred clergymen of the Cluirch of England are of the name of Bennett.

Charles F. Bushnell, Printer, Berlin, Conn.

BIRTHS

MARRIAGES

DEATHS