Thomas Bartlett (c1606-1654)

Biography
Thomas Bartlett's origins are unknown. He came to New England as a servant to Mr. Pelham, probably in 1630, as he appeared in court for the theft of tools from his employer May 3, 1631. [1] [3] Thomas settled in Watertown where he was admitted to the church prior to 4 March 1634/5.

Watertown Founders Monument
He is listed on Watertown Founders Monument, commemorating the first settlers of Watertown, Massachusetts. The town was first known as Saltonstall Plantation, one of the earliest of the Massachusetts Bay Colony settlements. Founded in early 1630 by a group of settlers led by Richard Saltonstall and George Phillips, it was officially incorporated that same year. The alternate spelling "Waterton" is seen in some early documents.

Marriage and Family
He was married to Hannah (Unknown) by February 28, 1636/7. Their children, all born in Watertown:


 * 1) Hannah Bartlett (1637-1639);
 * 2) Mehitabel Bartlett (1640-????);
 * 3) Hannah Bartlett (1643-????);
 * 4) Bathshua Bartlett (1646-1692);
 * 5) Abiah Bartlett (1651-1723),

Research Notes
According to Anderson, Thomas Bartlett and his wife did little or no land purchasing or sales during their lifetime, as there are no recorded deeds for them in the Middlesex registry. [3]

Thomas died April 26, 1654 in Watertown "aged about 60 years". There is some doubt as to the accuracy of this statement, as it suggests a date of birth of 1594 - a bit old to have been a servant in 1631, and a bit old to be getting married in 1636/7. His will, dated April 22, 1653 and probated June 20, 1654 leaves 7 pounds, 10 shillings to each of his four daughters and the rest of his estate for life to his wife, Hannah. After her death, two-thirds of his wife's share was to be divided among his living children with the remaining third disposed as his wife desired. His wife, Hannah, was to be the executrix. [1] [2] [3]

The inventory of Thomas Bartlett's estate on June 9, 1654 totaled 181 pounds, 16 shillings of which 101 pounds, 10 shillings was real estate. [2] [3]

His widow died at Watertown, July 11, 1676.