30 December 2011

Reuben Newcomb 1740-1789

From B.M. Newcomb's book:

Reuben Newcomb served in the Revolutionary War as Private in the Second Battalion of New Jersey. He was wounded 18 Dec. 1776, in the Continental Army from Cumberland Co., and pensioned, 28 Dec. 1776, as "private, Militia, Col. Potter's Regiment, invalid, aged thirty-six, residing Hopewell, Cumberland Co. N.J."

20 December 2011

Paul Newcomb 1752-1794

From Sons of the American Revolution: He served in the Quartermaster's Department from Lebanon CT.

14 December 2011

Oliver Newcomb c. 1738 - c. 1821

From B.M. Newcomb's book: He was a pay sergeant in the British army in the Revolutionary War.

06 December 2011

Luther Newcomb 1762-1834

From B.M. Newcomb's book:

Luther Newcomb volunteered as a private, June or July 1778, for six months, while residing with his brother Daniel at Bernardston, later Leyden, Mass. There being no captain, the company was commanded by Lieut. Amasa Camp, afterward by Capt. E. Chapin. He was required to guard munitions and stores at Springfield, Mass., etc.; as guard, he accompanies the conveyance of stores to Boston, then to Brookfield, Mass., and remained, as guard to the magazine, until ordered to Rutland, Mass., to perform the same duty to prisoners from the army of Gen. Burgoyne; returned to Brookfield and was discharged at the end of six months. In the summer of 1779 he went back to Lebanon and became a substitute for his brother in Capt. Elias Bliss' Co., Col. Ledyard's Regt.; marched to Groton Fort, opposite New London, Conn., discharged at end of two months. In the summer of 1780 he rendered service on board the privateer sloop Randolph, Capt. Nicholas Bostwick of New London; crept out in defiance of several British frigates off Stonington blockading both harbors; passed outside of Long Island to Sandy Hook; captured the British privateer Hibernia, and re-captured a French vessel taken by the British; safely returned, after an absence of one month, with these and two small schooners, to New London. He was a pensioner under Act of 1832.

01 December 2011

Lemuel Newcomb 1757-1843

Lemuel Newcomb was in the Revolutionary War in 1776. "Lemuel, Wellfleet. Private Capt. Winslow Lewis's Co., pay abstract for mileage to and from camp at Cambridge dated Jan. 13, 1776. Mileage for 218 mailes allowed said n. also Capt. Nathaniel Winslow's Co. Col. Whitney's regt.company receipt for advance pay for 1 mo. travel, allowance from home to Boston, etc. dated Point Shirley June 13, 1776. Also petition dated Camp at Hull Sept. 17, 1776, signed by said N. and others belonging to battalion stationed at Hull, asking for increase and payment of wages."

About 15 Mar. 1776, he was in service under Capt. John Gill of Wllefleet, serving until 1 May. He sailed from Wellfleet to Plymouth, thence marched to Boston, and was stationed on Noddles Island in the harbor, arriving a short time after the evacuation of Boston. He again entered the service: "Lemuel, Private Capt. Nathaniel Winslow's (Capt. Winslow of Scituate) Co., Col. Josiah Whitney's regt. Service from April 29, 1776, four days preceeding march, to August 1, 1776. 3 mo. 2 d. Service from Aug. 1, 1776 to Nov. 1, 1776, 3. mo.", assisted in building a fort on Noddles Island; then marched to Nantucket, where he labored in erecting forst and digging a deep well.

About 1 Jan. 1779, he shipped on a schooner, 140 tons, fitted out under direction of the Board of War and commanded by Capt. Moses Lewis, to bring cargo of flour from Alexandria, Va. After having been blockaded by the enemy two or three months in Potomoc River, they sailed for Boston, but were captured by the English ship Unicorn and set on shore on Block Island, 25 June 1779.

30 November 2011

Lemuel Newcomb

From B.M. Newcomb's book:

A hero of the Revolutionary War, he entered the service 13 Jan. 1776, in Winslow Lewis' Co. at Cambridge, and served without absence until discharged in Jan. 1777. He served also in the company of Capt. Elijah Vose, Col. John Graton's Regt.; was in the battle of Lake Champlain when Gen. Arnold was defeated.

Before and after the above service he was in the state militia; he was a pensioner under the Act of 1818; Rep., Gen'l Connecticut, Massachusetts, 1801-4-6.

23 November 2011

Kinner Newcomb 1756-1840

From biographical sources:

A patriot soldier, Kinner Newcomb served during the War of the Revolution. He enlisted from Nine Partners in June 1776, in the Co. of Capt. Melancton Smith's Rangers, Stephen Haight, Lieut-Col.; rendered nearly five months' service there, and at Verplanks Point, Poughkeepsie, and on the Peekskill Mountains, in apprehending and guarding Tories. In Aug. 1777 he enlisted at Nine Partners in Capt. John Rouse's Co., joined the regiments of Col. Graham in Gen. Glover's brigade at Lansingburgh, marched to Stillwater, encamped on Bemis Heights until 16 Oct., then pursued the retreating army of Gen. Burgoyne, which surrendered on the 19th. Soon afterwards he returned to Albany, then Esopus, a part of the time having only roasted apples for food; was discharged at the end of three months. He was also in the Co. of Capt. Wanderburgh, Second N.Y. Regt.; served in Col. Philip Courtlandt's regiment, a portion of the time as orderly sergt.; was named Col. Marinus Willett; was a private in the Fifth Regt., Rosecranse Co. Jan 1778 to Jan 1782.

He afterward drew 600 acres of land for his services; was a pensioner under Act of 1828, and his widow Olive under Act of 1853.

18 November 2011

07 November 2011

George Newcomb 1754-1787

From B.M. Newcomb's book:

George Newcomb served in the Revolutionary War, as shown by the following records:

"George Newcomb, Drummer, Capt. Nathan Smith's co., enlisted Oct. 5, 1775, service to Dec. 1, 1775, 2 mo. 1 day. Company stationed at Martha's Vineyard in defense of sea cost." "George, Drummer, Capt. Nathan Smith's Co., Enlisted Jan 18, 1776; Service to Sept. 1, 1776, 7 mo. 14 days. Co. stationed at Martha's Vineyard for defense of seacoast."

03 November 2011

Ethan Newcomb 1763-1849

From the Newcomb genealogy books:

A hero in the War of the Revolution, he volunteered at the age of 16 in the militia service, and served at various periods nearly 2 years. the militia were often called out for emergencies and for guard duty. He served one tour of 10 months and another of 2 months in the Co. of Capt. William Low, Lieut. Reuben Cheeseman, most of the time under his uncle, Gen. Silas Newcomb, guarding the banks of the Delaware River 60 miles below Philadelphia and near its mouth, the object being to prevent the landing of refugees to plunder the inhabitants. Mr. N. received no compensation from the State, but had his share of prize money in capturing a boat. He was a pensioner under Act of Congress, 1832. He signed his application for a pension with a cross.

28 October 2011

Ephraim Newcomb 1757-1795

From B.M. Newcomb's book:

MSS. No. 1467 - Name Ephraim Newcomb. Residence Salem Co. Rank Private. Time of entrance March 17, 1778. 9 days in service.

20 October 2011

Della Newcomb and Edward Clark

B.M. Newcomb indicated that Delia Miriam Clark (b. 28 Apr 1846) was the daughter of Julia Ann (Kelley) and Sylvester H. Newcomb. Presumably Delia was short for Fidelia (which appears as her name in the 1850 census). However, census and cemetery records indicate that she was called Delia. BMN gave her husband's name as Eberly E. Clark. Census and cemetery records indicate that he was called Edward (possible his middle name).

14 October 2011

Eleazer Newcomb 1755 - 1823

From B.M. Newcomb's book:

Eleazer performed important service in the War of the Revolution. He enlisted at Horse Neck, from Wethersfield, Conn.,, 6 Feb. 1777, for three years in the Co. of Capt. Childs, 5th Connecticut Regt., Col. Philip B. Bradley; served as corporal to 1 Jan. 1780; was discharged at Bearskin Ridge, N.J., 6 Feb. 1780; was in battles of Germantown and Monmouth; received a pension under Act of 1818.

08 October 2011

Dayton Newcomb 1752/3 - 1809

From B.M. Newcomb's book:

Col. Dayton Newcomb served in the War of the Revolution as Second Lieutenant in Capt. Page's co., Col. Enos Seely's Battalion; also as lieutenant in First Battalion; later as captain; then as colonel. "Auditor Book B, page 1 - Lieut Daton Newcomb Regt 1 Cumberland under Brig Newcomb." "MSS. No. 3896 Cumberland Militia Daton Lieut." "Auditor Acct C... Paid to Daten Newcomb April 24, 1778 £120: 0: 0... page 154 (Book B) Officers name, Lieut Datton Newcomb, Amt. £141:7:6." "Inv. 4660 - Name - Dayton Newcomb Residence - County of Cumberland Capt. 1st Regt. Cum. Co. Militia immediately after May 1, 1776. Sergeant Richard Sayres & others of Capt Azel Pierson's company detailed to serve under him at Tindal's Island near mouth Cohansey Creek & served on guard until the end of Aug 4 mo."

02 October 2011

David Newcomb 1763 - 1819

From B.M. Newcomb's book:

In the War of the Revolution David Newcomb shipped with his brother Thomas, the latter part of May 1778, as marine on board the frigate Dean, Capt. Hindham of New London; returned to Boston after capturing two merchant vessels, one a very valuable prize; absent three months. He served in Rhode Island on 2 Aug. 1778, under Capt. Jonathan Rudd; discharged 12 Sept. 1778, service under Genl. Sullivan; he also served in the 5th Brigade of Militia, 12th Connecticut Regt. A return for his service was signed 12 Sept. 1781, by "Jon Kyes, Brigade Major".

29 September 2011

David Newcomb 1739 - 1824

From DAR lineage books:

American Revolution: He was a member of the committee to provide for soldiers' families in Oxford, Mass.

24 September 2011

Daniel Newcomb 1756 - 1832

From DAR Lineage books:

American Revolution: He served as lieutenant in 1781 in the militia.

18 September 2011

Daniel Newcomb 1741-1794

From DAR lineage books: American Revolution: Served in the army and on the Committee of Safety.

08 September 2011

Daniel Newcomb 1729 - 1789

From B.M. Newcomb's book:

He served eight months, beginning 24 Apr. 1777, under Capt. Sylvanus Brown of Stanford, invalid in Artillery, 8th Regt., Connecticut line.

03 September 2011

Cyrenius Newcomb 1749-1815

From B.M. Newcomb's book:

Cyrenius Newcomb served in the Revolutionary War in 1778, 28 May, being Second Lieutenant, Stoutenburgh's 4th Regt., Dutchess Co. Militia; also, was reported as of the same rank 17 Oct. 1785. He was an officer in the War of 1812.

30 August 2011

Bradford Newcomb 1747-1822

From B.M. Newcomb's book:

Mr. Newcomb was a patriot soldier in the War of the Revolution. His sword, a very neat one, is remembered by some of his descendants now living.

21 August 2011

Bethuel Newcomb 1751-1826

Frolm DAR lineage books:

American Revolution: Entered the service in Capt. James Clark's company, Colonel Putnam's 3rd Connecticut regiment, and was engaged in the Battle of Bunker Hill. In 1818 he applied for a pension and under the act of 1838 his widow's claim was allowed.

From John Bearse Newcomb's book:

Mr. Newcomb was a soldier in the patriot army of the Revolution. He entered the service 15 May 1775, in the Company of Capt. James Clark of Lebanon, 6th Co., Col. Israel Putnam, Third Conn. Regt., and was in the battle of Bunker Hill. He was discharged 15 Dec. 1775.

Bethuel Newcomb's account of The Battle of Bunker Hill:

I fired my gun until it became so hot I couldn't hold it; stepped past where a soldier had fallen--caught his gun. We kept hearing some one calling "Retreat!", but thought it was someone running away. Soon Gen. Israel Putnam came on horseback--on a dead run, bareheaded, calling out: "God curse you why don't you retreat. The British have almost surrounded you." Then we turned and ran up Bunker Hill--the grapeshot cutting down the grass between our legs as we ran. I was never wounded.

14 August 2011

Azariah Newcomb 1762-1843/44

From B.M. Newcomb's book:

In August 1778, at the age of fifteen or sixteen, Azariah Newcomb served six weeks as a substitute for Isaac Pardee in guarding the public stores at Sharon, Conn. He volunteered for three months in August 1780 at Salisbury, Conn., in the Company of Capt. John Perier, regiment commanded by Col. Canfield in Gen. Willis' or Wells' brigade; marched to Horse Neck, N.Y., white Plains and Bedford Hill, where he was discharged in November. In an action at Stamford, Conn., when the British forces landed from boats to burn the town, he received a sword cut on the head and a bayonet wound in the arm.

08 August 2011

Andrew Newcomb 1750 - 1781

From B.M. Newcomb's book:

That he served in the Revolutionary War is shown in the following: "A roll of Capt. Mathew Smith's co. stationed on the Isle of M.V. for the defence of the sea coast. Made up from the 15 of Jan. to the last of Feb. 1776. Andrew Newcomb private." "Said to have been Capt. of N.J. Regt. from Cumberland Co. Rev. War. Mar 1, 1776 to Jan 3, 1777." He served from 30 Sept. to 22 Nov. 1776, in John Russell's co., Maj. Bassett, guarding the seacoast of Martha's Vineyard; he also served on board a vessel of war as lieutenant. In Court of Sessions, Duke's County, May 1779, "Ordered that Andrew Newcomb receive an order on the Treasurer of the County for a cedar boat, which the British forces deprived him of, in Sept., last."

Andrew Newcomb and John Newcomb are included in the list of prisoners taken on the British vessel "Old Jersey", and church records say that Andrew died "returning from captivity". "About 8,000 names have been copied from an incomplete list of English War Records, of men confined as prisoners on board the Old Jersey Prison Ship, moored in Wallabout Bay, New York, during the Revolutionary War. It has been estimated that more than 11,000 of 11,644 persons perished on board during a period of three and a half years."

02 August 2011

Joseph Newcomb 1762 - 1814

From B.M. Newcomb's book:

He served three years as a patriot soldier in the War of the Revolution.

27 July 2011

Joseph Newcomb b. 7 Mar 1749

From DAR lineage books:

American Revolution: He served as a private in Capt. Matthias Tobey's company, Col. Aaron Williard's regiment.

20 July 2011

More Name Statistics

From my database -

People named Newcomb (Newcombe, etc.) whose spouse was named Smith - 141
Spouse named Brown - 78
Spouse named Jones - 60
Spouse named Johnson - 57
Spouse named Williams - 47

Those who married another Newcomb - 88

18 July 2011

Newcombe vs. Newcomb

B.M. Newcomb wrote that the name is usually spelled Newcombe in Canada and Newcomb in the U.S. That is largely correct, but the use of the final e occurs in the states, especially as we go further back in history. Nevertheless, both BMN and the earlier family genealogist, J.B. Newcomb, used the e-less spelling for everyone. For the most part, I have followed their example. But we should be aware that many of our Canadian ancestors and relatives did, and still do, use that final e. So when doing research, we need to look for both spellings, as well as other common variations, such as Newcome and Newcom.

12 July 2011

Joseph Newcomb 1718 - 1793

From B.M. Newcomb's book:

He was an officer in the War of the Revolution and following his return to civil life was justice of the peace.

05 July 2011

John Newcomb 1760 - 1822

From B.M. Newcomnb's book:

American Revolution: He served as a conductor of trains for transportation of supplies from Lebanon CT to the Continental Army.

01 July 2011

John Newcomb b. 3 Nov 1752

From B.M. Newcomb's book:

Was probably the John who enlisted as a private in Capt. Roby's Company, Col. Moses Little's (17th) Regiment, muster roll, 1 Aug. 1775, enlisted 6 June 1775, service two months; also company return (probably October 1775), aged twenty-one years; also, order for bounty coat or equivalent in money, 11 Dec. 1775.

25 June 2011

John Newcomb 1751 - 1834

From B.M. Newcomb's book:

While residing at Cape Ann, he enlisted, May 1775, for twelve months in Capt. Nathaniel Collins' Co., marched to Cambridge and arrived on the day of the battle of Bunker Hill. He joined Col. Moses Little's regiment, and a few days after left for Prospect Hill, where he was employed in throwing up breastworks during the day and standing guard at night. He also served in Joseph Robey's Company. When Collins was promoted to major, Warner became captain of Collins' Company.

In Jan 1776, he enlisted for eight months as corporal in Capt. William Pearson's Co., Col. Porter's regiment, and rendered service at Cape Ann. In about one month he was appointed sergeant; discharged 15 Aug 1776.

In Apr. 1777 he volunteered to serve in the army on North River - term of service three years - and joined Capt. James Carr's Co., Col. Little; marched from Boston to Albany, where he was detached, with some hundreds of others, under Gen. Arnold, to relieve Fort Stanwix, then besieged. He marched to Stillwater, joined the artillery under Maj. Bannister, and was present at the capture of the army of Gen. Burgoyne. Ordered to Albany, and was there appointed to drive the baggage-wagon of Gen. Gates home.

He was in a privateer fitted out at Machias, Me.; was taken by a British man-of-war; was prisoner on board the British ship Jersey in New York harbor with Andrew, his cousin, but escaped; and sailed in a privateer from Cape Ann, capturing several prizes.

20 June 2011

Common Names

Some more statistics from my Newcomb database:

Females whose maiden name was Newcomb, Newcombe, Newcom or Newcome - 9872

Elizabeth, Eliza, Lizzie, etc. - 390
Mary, Maria or Marie - 240
Ann, Annabelle, Annie, etc. - 229
Abigail, Abby, etc. - 81

15 June 2011

brundy family

A reader named elissabrundy wrote:



"I'm married to James Brundy son of Steven Brundy. We are looking for any info on who Charles Henry Brundy's father is. We think it could be Henry Brundy from St. Charles Missouri B-2-22-1826 D-2-13-1912 in Montana. If any one can help with the mystery or any info on any one in the family would be grateful."

13 June 2011

John Newcomb c. 1733 - 1817

From DAR lineage books:

American Revolution: He served as a private in Capt. John Hall's company, Colonel Palmer's Massachusetts regiment.

Brom B.M. Newcomb's book: "He was a seafaring man, engaged in whaling."

10 June 2011

Josesph Walker and Annie Maud Newcomb

Joseph Walker (b. 3 Jun 1858 in Donegal, Ireland) married Annie Maud Newcomb (19 Sep 1865 - 24 Dec 1931, daughter of Ezekiel and Mary Jane [Purdy] Newcomb) 26 Apr 1886. B.M. Newcomb said that he died November 1909. However his tombstone shows that he died 15 Feb 1931. He and Annie are buried in Fredricton Rural Cemetery, New Brunswick.

08 June 2011

Jesse Newcomb 1756-1832

From B.M. Newcomb's book:

He served in the Revolutionary War at Long Island and Harlem Heights; enlisted July 4, 1776, in Capt. James Clark's Co., and received pay for 3 months, 28 days, £7 16s., on payroll dated 1 Nov. 1776.

03 June 2011

Huge Newcomb Database

We have one of the most extensive Newcomb family databases available anywhere. It includes hundreds of corrections and updates to the old genealogies by J.B. Newcomb and B.M. Newcomb, plus thousands of new entries, bringing the family history into the 21st century. Search it for free at Rootsweb's WorldConnect project.

01 June 2011

Jeremiah Newcomb 1760-1842

From B.M. Newcomb's book:

Jeremiah Newcomb took part in the Revolutionary War, entering the service Mar. 1776 in Capt. John Gill's co., William Cooper of Boston First Lieut.; sailed from Wellfleet to Plymouth, thence marched to Boston, where he was stationed with troops under Gen. Putnam; discharged about 1 May 1776, re-entered the service as matross in artillery company for twelve months, Capt. John Gill, Col. Craft's Regt. or battalion; sailed to Castle William in Boston Harbor where he remained during the winter, building the fort; passed daily in flat bottomed boat to Boston and back; dragged cannon to top of hill to place in fort, stocked and bedded those injured by the English, and received passports of vessels passing the fort; procured a mortar, stationed it on the north side of Long Island head, with breastwork and 6-pounder cannon on Nantasket Hill, to play across the head to the shipping of the enemy. The throwing of the third bomb caused the vessels to drop down near the lighthouse, which they blew up.

"Jeremiah, Wellfleet; Matross; Capt. John Gill's co.... abstract for advanced pay, mileage, etc., sworn to at Boston Jun 8, 1776. Mileage (108 miles) allowed said Newcomb; also same Co. and regt enlisted May 9, 1776. Service to Nov. 1, 1776, 5 mo. 24 d., also same Co. and regt. service from Feb. 1, 1777 to May 8, 1777, 3 mo. 7 d."

In 1780, 28 Nov., he was of the brig Resolution, taken prisoner, and committed to Old Mill Prison on 22 Jan. 1781. He was also out at other times during the war.

29 May 2011

Common Names

Here are some statistics from my current Newcomb database:

Total number of men surnamed Newcomb, Newcombe, Newcom, or Newcome - 14,939

Men whose given names are John, Jonathan, etc. - 845
James, Jim, etc. - 615
George - 580
Charles, Charlie, etc. - 577
William, Bill, etc. - 333
Thomas, Tom, etc. - 279
Frederick, Fred, etc. - 221

22 May 2011

James Newcomb 1756-1838

From B.M. Newcomb's book:

James Newcomb served actively in the War of the Revolution for nearly seven years. "He served in 6th Co. Capt. James Clark, 3rd Regt.; Genl. Putnam, May 11, to Dec. 11, 1775, and was at the Battle of Bunker Hill." He served as a private, also as a corporal, in Capt. William Richard's Co., 1st Connecticut Regt. Col. Josiah Starr, from 15 May 1777, to 15 May 1780.

Near the close of the war he was captured by the Indians under Brandt, in the Genesee country, western New York; was marched with his hands tied behind him, in company with 60 other white men, under Lieut. Phelps, to the St. Lawrence River, and from there conveyed by boat to Montreal and sold to the British for blankets, guns, ammunition, tomahawks, scalping knives, whiskey, etc. He was kept in prison at Montreal for some time, during which a British officer came to the prison and called for the two strongest men among the 600 prisoners. Mr. Newcomb and an Irishman named Halstead were selected to work on the fortifications, carrying stone on a hand-barrow.

After working for a few days they broke guard and escaped south into the wilderness, eluding pursuit by the British and Indians. They traveled for 29 days as nearly south as they could, subsisting on 1 loaf of bread, 1 rabbit, 2 frogs, and what bark and roots they could find. They often became so famished and exhausted that they would lie down, believing that they must die. On the 19th day of wandering they were found by three hunters, and were so famished they could hardly crawl on their hands and knees.

The first salutation of the hunters was: "Are you for George Washington or King George?" The answered, "George Washington!" upon which the hunters approached them and, viewing their bruised, emaciated and naked condition, wept like children. Their shoes were gone, and they had torn their clothes piecemeal to wrap up and save their bleeding feet. The hunters carried them about three miles, reaching a colonial settlement at the Upper Cowas or Oxbow, near the head of the Connecticut River. They reached home about the time that peace was concluded between the Colonies and Great Britain.

21 May 2011

Newcombs on Facebook

You can post pictures and exchange information with other Newcomb descendants on our newly-updated Facebook Page.

16 May 2011

James Newcomb 1755-1824

From B.M. Newcomb's book:

In the War of the Revolution James Newcomb, a minute man, was in several expeditions in 1776; his first and second service under Captain Lothrop Allen (in whose company he enlisted for six months), Lieut-Col. John Harper, included one expedition to New York and on Long Island, building forts, breastworks, and "fighting the enemy". In 1777 he enlisted under Capt. John Rouse, and was present at the surrender of the army of Gen. Gurgoye; he served as corp. in Peyton's Co., Second N.Y. Regt., mustered in Sept. 1778; re-enlisted 12 May 1779, and continued in the same co. until 21 Apr. 1780. He further service in 1780, 1781 was as sergt. under Capt. Cornelius Wiltse or Wiltsey, Lieut-Col. Thaddeus Crane, and Col. Peter Yates. After the close of the war he was appointed captain of a light infantry company; promoted 1798 to Lieut-Col.; later. Col.

12 May 2011

James Newcomb 1754-1843

Frolm B.M. Newcomb's book:

James Newcomb entered the Revolutionary War as a private, Mar. 1775, in Co. of Capt. Joseph Smith. One record shows enlistment "July 17, 1775, discharged Dec. 31, 1775. Service 5 mo. 27 d., in defense of seacoast." He was stationed at Wellfleet until Feb 1776; then marched to Truro, and was discharged in the middle of Mar. following.

"James, Sailor, Sloop 'Martha' Nathaniel Stone Master, bound on voyage to North Carolina; portage bill dated Boston, Jan 22, 1777; shipped Dec. 25, 1776." He was afterward in command of a ship running between Charlestown, Mass., and Charleston, S.C.; was also in service with Capt. Lemuel Newcomb of Wellfleet.

He became a pensioner under Act of Congress of 1832.

08 May 2011

Jacob Newcomb 1724-1777

From B.M. Newcomb's book:

Jacob Newcomb settled at Lebanon on a farm adjoining his father's on the southwest. In addition to several purchases of lands, he received fifty acres in Lebanon as a gift from his father, for "love, good will and affection". In 1760 he sold the most of his lands, possibly intending to settle in Cornwallis, N.S., where his parents, two brothers and their families removed that year; apparently, however, he remained in Lebanon. His town tax in 1760 was 1 5s 2d. He was a farmer.

At the outbreak of the War of the Revolution, Jacob Newcomb joined the patriot army, and died a martyr in the service, according to the church records of Lebanon, 1777. It is supposed that he died and was committed to a watery grave. His son, Bethuel, after leaving the service, set out in search of his father, Jacob, and traced him to Lake Champlain, but was unable to find further positive information concerning him. He learned that his father, sick of camp disease, with two other soldiers attempted to cross the lake in an open boat, but he could ascertain nothing additional.

When he, son Bethuel, moved to Thetford, Vt., Elizabeth, widow, accompanied him, riding behind him on horseback. She died at Thetford, at the home of her son Israel.

29 April 2011

Frances M. Newcomb (1847-1879)

She was the daughter of Henry B. Newcomb (1803-1878) and Philocha Clark (1810-1872). B.M. Newcomb said that Frances married John Russell on 28 May 1864. However, in the 1870 census she is listed with the surname Newcomb, living with her parents. Her name is on a Newcomb tombstone in Charlotte Cemetery with her parents, one sister and one sister-in-law.

18 April 2011

John Jay Newcomb 1841-1901

Are you a descendant of John Jay Newcomb? He was one of "Mosby's Rangers" (Co. E, 43rd Battalion, Virginia Cavalry) during the Civil War. The Mosby Heritage Area Association is currently doing research on these men and would like to hear from their living relatives. Please let me know who you are and I will provide you with contact information for Robin Yaeger, who is working on the project. Learn more at the website http://www.mosbyheritagearea.org.

16 April 2011

Carved in Stone

Cemeteries and cemetery records are great genealogical resources. But, like other resources, they are subject to error, often more so than we realize.

The information used by the cemetery is typically provided by an informant, often a close relative of the deceased person, but sometimes an acquaintance, doctor, undertaker, etc. No matter how well the informant knew the subject, there is a chance that the information provided will be incorrect. Many people think they know when and where their parents and grandparents were born, but they may be mistaken, especially when it comes to the state or city of birth. People are often upset and stressed when making funeral arrangements, and they simply make mistakes without realizing it. For example, when my grandmother's oldest son died, she accidentally gave her current husband's name as his father, rather than the name of his real father, her first husband. That incorrect name went on the death certificate and is now part of the "official" record, even though it is wrong.

When information is missing from the headstones, we may rely on the cemetery's written records. Unfortunately, these are sometimes missing, incomplete, or poorly maintained. Often the date of burial appears in place of the date of death. Spelling errors and other mistakes are common. When remains are removed to a new location, sometimes the records at the old cemetery are not updated, or the old marker remains in place. I have come across several people who seem to be buried in two completely different locations because the relocation was not properly documented.

The existence of a stone is not proof that a burial took place. People sometimes place memorial markers in the family plot for relatives who were actually buried somewhere else, or for those who were cremated and the ashes scattered. Conversely, the absence of a marker is not necessarily proof that someone was not buried there. Shifting ground, earthquakes, floods, vandalism, theft, relocation and new construction can all cause a stone to be misplaced, destroyed, or planted in the wrong spot.

Cemeteries, like censuses, are valuable research tools. But it's important to remember that they are not perfect.

13 April 2011

Find A Grave

The "Find A Grave" website is a great online resource. Volunteers post information about where people are buried in cemeteries around the USA and the world, sometimes with photos of the grave markers, sometimes with links to other family members or additional information such as obituaries. For the most part this is a reliable source. But remember that typos and other errors are inevitable. Also, there are some people who post information without proper verification. That is, they haven't actually seen the cemetery, or they have made their own incorrect assumptions about the relationships between individuals in a family plot, or they have completely misread names and dates. As with all sources, proceed with caution. Overall, though, this is a good place to find information in your search. I am currently using it to update the Newcomb database. See www.findagrave.com.

08 February 2011

Emelyn Smythe Newcomb

B.M. Newcomb wrote:

Story-teller, lecturer, author; graduate of Northfield Seminary; university student; wrote "Glooscap and the Great Chief and Other Stories", "Indian Legends for Camp Fire Girls", and with Dr. Partridge, "Story Telling in School and Home".

31 January 2011

Eliphalet H. Newcomb

Eliphalet Haskins Newcomb (b.  8 Jun 1808. BMN #782) was the son of Kinner Newcomb (b. 15 Jun 1777) and Elizabeth Beaman (b. 22 Feb 1762).  He married his first cousin, Mary Newcomb (b. 2 Jun 1808) in 1829.

Were there two Eliphalet H Newcombs living in Cleveland at around the same time? Or are there simply a number of errors and discrepancies in the record?

In the 1850 census, E.H. Newcomb's occupation is listed as tailor. His age is given as 42, which corresponds to the 1808 birthdate from the old Newcomb books. The names and ages of his wife and children in the 1850 census also match the books.

In the 1860 census, E.H. Newcomb's occupation is listed a lawyer, which now corresponds to the Newcomb books. His wife, Euretta J., could be the "Jane" listed in the book. His age is now 48, making him 4 or 5 years younger. His sons George and Theodore were living with their married sister.

In the 1870 census (taken in July), Eli Newcomb is a lawyer, married to Euretta. His age is 60, which puts him about halfway between the ages in the previous two censuses. There are now four children living with him. The eldest is George, age 20, 10 years younger than the original George, who was married and living with his wife in Cleveland in June 1870. According to the Newcomb books, Eliphalet and his second wife had no children. Since these children did not appear with them in 1860, they may have been grandchildren or the children of a relative.

21 January 2011

William Eugene Newcomb

William Eugene Newcomb (b. Oct 1851) was the son of William Perry Newcomb (1820-1898) and Catharine Bedell (1826-1895). The old Newcomb books do not indicate that he ever married. B.M. Newcomb said he was unmarried in 1915, living in Pitcher NY. However, in the 1880, 1900 and 1910 censuses there is a William E. Newcomb the right age, father born in Pennsylvania, mother born in New Jersey, living in Pitcher, married. I think it's the same person; he was probably a widower in 1915. In 1920 he appears with a second wife, and in 1930 he is a widower.

14 January 2011

John Bearse Newcomb (1824-1897)

B.M. Newcomb wrote:

Mr. Newcomb emigrated with his parents to Illinois when he was thirteen years old, arriving 11 July 1837 at Joliet. For the next three years they resided upon a farm in what is now the town of Franklin, later called Naansay, in Kendall County, about four miles southwest of the village of Plainfield. His parents died in 1840, leaving him an orphan at the age of sixteen. He then moved to Elgin, in Kane County, which continued to be his residence, with the exception of a few short intervals.

Mr. Newcomb was a pioneer in educational work, beginning in 1844 in a brick school house which is probably still standing. From 1851 to 1853 he taught in West Elgin in a frame building, still in existence. In 1854 he opened a private school in the Methodist Church, where he taught for two years. In 1856 he became assistant principal of the Academy. In 1860 he was elected superintendent of Elgin public schools, which position he held until 1866. During this time he was examiner for the northern part of the county. By municipal election in April 1873, he became a member of the board of education, was re-elected in 1874, and served until 1877. He was secretary of the board.

On 2 March 1864, John B. Newcomb was elected a corresponding member of the New England Historic Genealogical Society at a meeting held in Boston. On 4 March 1896, he was elected a member of the Society of Mayflower Descendants. He was meteorological observer for the Smithsonian Institution from 1858-1861; city sexton of Elgin cemetery from 1865-1869 and 1885-1889; member of the Association of American Cemetery Superintendents, 1881-1891. He was the author of Genealogical Memoir of the Newcomb Family, 1874. No one, unless he has during a long period of years endeavored to assemble genealogical data with very little material in hand to start with, is able to appreciate the effort of Mr. Newcomb, nor the inestimable service thus rendered to the Newcombs for all time.

13 January 2011

George Mosby Newcomb's Parents

A reader named Alan Kenneth Newcomb wrote:

George Mosby or Mosley Newcomb was born near Halifax, Virginia in about 1861-1862 and married Virginia Smith Nininger in Roanoke, Virginia Methodist Chutch 19 Feb 1885. I have been unable to determine who his parents were although one possibility was a Henry Newcomb from Birch Creek. His oldest son, Ernest, claimed that his grandparents were George Henry Newcomb and Molly Sled. I can find no trace of these two.

07 January 2011

David Barnaby Newcomb (1827-1889)

B.M. Newcomb wrote:

Mr. Newcomb owned the west half, one hundred and fifty acres, of the farm which was once in the possession of his father, John, and grandfather, Benjamin newcomb, the latter having built the house. He was a school teacher for several years, afterward a farmer; in 1863, 18 May, commissioned justice of the peace; 18 Sept. 1863, major of Second Regt., K.C. of Nova Scotia Militia. He was also a newspaper correspondent; wrote essays and delivered lectures; author of a serie of lectures published in pamphlet form -- "How to Win, or the Dignity of Labor". he was one of the leading men of the town and county in which he resided, Sheffield Mills, Cornwallis.

02 January 2011

Grace Phillps or Grace Vanderwall

Harry Allen Newcomb, BMN #2857 was born 15 Sep 1880 in New York and died 22 Oct 1948 in North Carolina. B.M. Newcomb said that Harry married Grace Phillips, daughter of Edward O. and Jennie (Hall). But on Harry's death certificate, his wife's maiden name is Grace Vanderwall. The census supports this, listing the birthplace of Grace's parents as Holland or Netherlands. In 1900, there is a Grace Vanderwal, born May 1893 in Michigan, daughter of Garret and Jennie, who were born in Holland.