Person:Richard Baldwin (8)

Richard Baldwin came to New England in the ship "Martin" in 1638. He was an original proprietor or free planter of Milford in 1639, when only 17. He joined the church at Milford 9 May 1641. Elizabeth Alsop joined the church 5 February 1642/1643, and after her name is written, "since married to Richard Baldwin." In 1646 Richard's homestead was on the west side of the Wepawaug River, between those of his stepfather, Captain Astwood, and his brother-in-law Benjamin Fenn. He was called Sergeant (of the Train Band) as early as 1655, and between 1655 and 1661 was interested in the purchase and settlement of Paugasset (Derby), but remained in Milford, where he kept the ordinary. Richard was appointed Ensign of the New Haven Colony Troop June 1654; and was Deputy for Milford to the New Haven Colony General Court May 1662, May and Oct 1663, and Jan 1664. Richard had a good education, wrote a fine hand, and in 1660 was Town Clerk of Milford. He often appeared before the Court as an attorney for others, suggesting that in boyhood he may have clerked or had some training with his uncle Henry Baldwin, who was a lawyer. The inventory of Richard Baldwin of Milford amounted to L1420-15-00 net, and was taken 28 September 1665 by Robert Treat, William Fowler. The names and ages of the children were stated as Nathaniel [error for Sylvanus], 19; Sarah, 17; Temperance, 15; Mary, 12; Theophilus, 8; Zakaryah, 5; and Barabas, 3/4 of a year old. The order of distribution was L150 to the widow; L70 to "Silvanus, Eldest son"; and L36 to each of the other children at legal age or marriage. The eldest daughter, Elizabeth, was already married and perhaps had received her full portion. Martha, then aged 2, was omitted.

[Baldwin.FTW]

[Brøderbund WFT Vol. 4, Ed. 1, Tree #0163, Date of Import: Jun 12, 1999]

"Richard was one of the founders of Milford, Conn. He was a man of Prominence in the Colony. His name, with that of his wife, was engraved on one of the stones forming a memorial bridge at Milford, Conn. Richard was well educated and experienced in law. He frequently appeared as an attorney before the General Court at New Haven. It is thought that he studied law under his uncle Henry Baldwin. It has been stated by those having seen specimens of his handwriting that it was (is) like 'engraved script.' He joined the church May 9, 1641. In 1646, his homestead consisted of 3 acres on the west side of the Wepawaug river. He was a sergeant in the militia, and Ensign of the Military Company for the expedition against the Dutch. He was reported as being an active, energetic, intelligent business man. He was prominent in the settlement of Paugusset (Derby, Conn.). At a meeting in Milford, June 10, 1655, Serg't Baldwin was among those chosen to 'treat and deal with the Indians, being the true proprietors for all or any part of the land purchased betwixt Pagasich and us that falls within our lines: and what agreement they make, the town is to stand to it, according to the promises expressed.' He kept a tavern and was licensed to sell liquor. It was in violation of the court orders to sell strong drink 'at higher prices than allowed.' The court interfered in the high cost of living by regulating prices. Citizens were forbidden to buy certain luxuries if the court considered them to be beyond the means of the citizens. Men were required to pay taxes on a set minimum before they could pamper their vanity by wearing 'top-boots' or their wives could appear in 'silken bonnets.' He was a member of the general assembly in May 1662 and May 1664. Probate records show the inventory of his estate was taken September 28, 1665 by Robert Treat and William Fowler. The net value of the estate was listed as a little more than 420 pounds. 'The Relict' received 150 pounds; according to tradition, his eldest son Sylvanus received 70 pounds (a double portion), each of the other children was to receive 36 pounds at legal age or at marriage: Barnabas was born after the death of his father and was omitted from his will."

1. ↑ ^{1.0 1.1 1.2 1.3 1.4} Baldwin, Charles Candee. The Baldwin Genealogy, from 1500 to 1881. (Cleveland, Ohio: Leader Printing Co., 1881)
   pa 41.

   Richard [baptised] 25 Aug. 1622