Gravestone of Robert Adams
During an attempt to track down the unnamed author of a key mimeograph on the life of Robert Adams, last night I came across a website documenting the gravestones and genealogy of New England settlers (an impressive undertaking, to say the least!).
Listed at the Byfield Parish Church Burial Ground, I was very excited to see the headstone of Robert Adams and a number of other Adams. However, due to the age of the headstone and distance of the photograph, the view is not close enough to read any details – in fact the photo is so far away as to include Robert’s neighbor, Josiah, d. Jan 4, 1852.
Without the ability to see the stone for myself, I can only rely on the information listed by the photographer who was there, cross-referenced with Garry Adams’ extensive genealogical research.
Comparisons of note:
- Both sources state his origin as Devonshire, England
- Dates of death are within four days of each other
- Photographer cites Oct. 16, 1682
- G. Adams cites Oct. 12, 1682
- There is no date of birth listed by the photographer (I assume, therefore, it is not listed on the gravestone)
- Dates of Emigration are off by six years
- Photographer cites 1629
- G. Adams cites 1635
I am inclined to believe G. Adams’ date as it was derived directly from Bank’s Topographical Dictionary of 2885 English Emigrants to New England 1620-1650 by Chas. Ed. Banks 1957, p. 24. However, why this date would be different on his gravestone, I have no explanation.
The photograph of Robert’s gravestone is copyrighted, so in order to view it, click here.
