In Their Own Words: Transcription and Research of the Original Records of Colonial Rochester, New Hampshire, 1722-1799 (The Colonial History of Rochester, N.H. Book 2)

PrefaceIn Their Own Words, A Transcription and Research Analysis of the Records of Colonial Rochester, New Hampshire, 1722 to 1799, the sister publication to A Frontier Settlement in Colonial New Hampshire, The Territory and Township of Rochester, New Hampshire, 1620 to 1799, makes available the most comprehensive presentation of records of the town, including those from the period of its proprietorship, 1722–1785, through the period of the Town Book, 1736–1793.The trove of records found in 1973 and conveyed to the author for safekeeping included many manuscript documents prepared by the various town clerks but never entered into the Town Book. This book resolves that discrepancy by transcribing these handwritten notes as well and introducing them in proper date order as “MSS.” Together, they represent the only full presentation of activity of the Town of Rochester for the period.The research and analysis contained in Chapters 3 to 6 are the product of work accomplished over several decades to understand the development of the town more completely from initial settlement in 1728 to the close of the eighteenth century, including both the period of the Proprietorship and the Township.The accounting and financial entries are typical for the period and recorded in British pounds (£), shillings (s), and pence (d), the result of an expanding British colonial empire. Typically, this currency was preferred in the American colonies, New Hampshire included, until 1793. This currency circulated in the market, supplemented periodically after 1790 in New Hampshire by paper money. Provincial notes were denominated as above but held a value less than sterling. For example, the New Hampshire shilling was valued at 9 pence sterling. The 1709 issue was referred to as the Old Tenor issue (O.T.)Upon reviewing the town records, readers will note much discussion about amounts due to ministers of the time. There was almost always a concession required of one party or the other to accommodate changes in currency valuation for salary due the minister for past (and unpaid) periods of service.Town accounts were reviewed and accepted at the annual meeting, and public scrutiny was encouraged. Inhabitants of Rochester who proved astute in one activity or another found their name suggested for service providing support to town government and development. The positions held over time represent a view of the town hierarchy, and the surnames of those holding positions regularly during the period continue to be found in town registry today. Read more