John Lawrence
- Christened: 8 Oct 1609, Wissett, Suffolk, England 934
- Marriage (1): Elizabeth Waters in 1635
- Died: 11 Jul 1667, Groton, Middlesex Co., MA at age 57 934
 Research Notes:
John Lawrence was admitted a freeman, April 17, 1637, when about twenty-eight years old; though it will be seen, by the early Massachusetts Records, that the freeman's oath was given at first to males of only sisteen years. 28 February 1636 he receaved three acres of land, his share of a grant then made to the townsmen, a hundred and six in number. In 1650, he bought of the town fifteen acres of common land (called King's Common). 'In 1654, Hugh Mason received of John Lawrence, clerk, 2 pounds 17 shillings 6 pennies money for town or parish use.' His removal to Groton is determined by various facts and dates. Town Records are in existence, dated June 23, 1662; the first probably made. As one of the original proprietors, he owned 'a twenty-acre right.' The sale of his lands and mansion-house in Watertown was made in 1662. In December of the same year, it appears by the records of Groton, 'meet men were found amongst the inhabitants,' of whom 'John Lawrence' was one, 'who were chosen selectmen.' He was evidently a man of smoe intelligence and invluence, and held a good place in the public esteem. Though a large landholder for the times, he is said to have carried on the business of a carpenter both in Watertown and Boston. He died in Groton, 11 July 1667 leaving his sons Nathaniel and Joseph, and wife Susanna, executors of his will. 935
John married Elizabeth Waters, daughter of James Waters and Phebe Manning, in 1635. (Elizabeth Waters was born in 1614 in Groton, Middlesex Co., MA 934 and died 29 Aug 1663 in Groton, Middlesex Co., MA 934.)
|