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Record 1/5355
Description 
In 1619 Nanepashmet, the Chief of the Naumkeag Indians was killed in a battle and the government of the tribe devolved upon his widow who in turn made each of her three sons a sachem (chief). In 1684 a meeting of the Commoners in Marblehead, Indian James claimed that the town was passing out land that belonged to him. A committee was formed of Moses Maverick, John Deverix, Captain Samuel Ward, Thaddeus Ridden, William Beall, Thomas Pittman, Richard Read, and Nathaniel Walton to investigate the claim that was found to be true. Since the Indians did have a claim another committee of John Deverix and Captain Samuel Ward was appointed to bargain with the Indians to settle it. They agreed on a purchase price of 14 pounds and 13 shillings plus other cost which brought the total to 20 pounds, 15 shillings and three pence or about five dollars and 72 cents. Other accounts say the amount was 16 pounds. A deed was prepared and on 18 July 1684 it was signed and sealed by: Joane Quanophkonat, Susanah Wenepawweekin, Israell Quanapahomatt, James Quanophkonatt, Jone Ahawayetsquaine, Sarah Wanapawequin, James Quanapohkonat alies James Rummney Marshe, and Joseph Quanophkonatt als Joseph English (Grandson of old John). Each Indian made his or her mark on a ribbon that was attached to the deed and had a red wax seal. From left to right they are: James Quanapohkonat alies James Rummney Marshe with a Lion Rampant Joane Quanophkonat with a Pelican in its Piety Name Unreadable with a Raven Jone Ahawayetsquaine with a Lion Rampant Susanah Wenepawweekin with a seal with an "H" and a cross above it. Sarah Wanapawequin with a Pelican in its Piety Israell Quanapahomatt with a Raven Name Unreadable with a Lion Rampant
Deed to Town of Marblehead -Archives Catalog -Copyright Marblehead Historical Commission
Image
Marblehead Town Deed

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Rev. 2.0 2/2013 Contact the Historical Commission at 781-639-3425 or e-mail us (please include the "Object ID" number, not the Record Number)     historic@marblehead.org
Last modified on: February 22, 2013