Chat
|
Daily Search
|
My GenForum
|
Community Standards
|
Terms of Service
|
|
|
David, I'll reply here so perhaps others can add to the knowledge base.
I know nothing more about the ancestry of Joseph from Maryland and I believe an extensive search by a professional will be required to solve the mystery.
I bought Farnham's book to learn what he would share gratuitously about this line. According to Farnham, the idea that Joseph was the son of William 2 is nothing more than a myth. In his book, he does provide evidence that contradicts earlier works that tie the Maryland Longfellows to the Massachusetts Longfellows and he attemps to dismiss the possibility entirely. His strongest evidence (the only real evedence he provides) against the connection is record of William 2 dying in Boston in 1702 five months after his marraige to Mary Davise. However, in his book, he dismisses evidence supporting the connection far too easily and "assumes, probably, likely, maybe, etc." to support his theory. Finally, Farnham concludes, "it appears... that Joseph most likely went to Maryland directly from England.", although he provides absolutely no evidence to support that conclusion and in fact acknowledges that, "Passenger lists show no such name.".
In my opinion, Farnham's work on this subject was based on incomplete research. Farnham states in his book that, "Only a scholarly search of English archives will determine if a common link exists between these two families (of Longfellows).". I believe the scolarly search of domestic evidence has not yet been exhausted and that's where I shall concentrate my efforts. For sure, I want to see proof that William 2, son of William the immigrant, actually died at Boston in 1702 and is buried there before a rush off to England.
In fairness to Russell Farnham, those who are descended from William the immigrant, without controversy, will find his work useful and instructive.
Notify Administrator about this message?
Followups:
|
| http://genforum.genealogy.com/longfellow/messages/537.html | ||
 |
Link to GenForum Add Forum |
|