Headstone Inscription:
Here lieth interred the body of Major General John Hammond who departed this life the 24 day of November 1707 in the sixty fourth year of his age.
**From Linda who left flowers for Maj General: St. Anne's records upon his death, in 1707, reads: "Hon. John Hammond, Esq., Major-General of the Western Shore of Maryland, one of her majesty's most honorable Council and Judge of the High Court of Admiralty in the Province of Maryland, was buried the 29th of November 1707." Thank you Linda.
**From James and Sharon Cissell who sent the following email: Birth 5 Dec 1643 • England. Find A Grave says he was mother was Ann Hall but that was his mother-in-law. Thank you James and Sharon
From the genealogy of Laura Hammond, Atlanta, Fulton County, Georgia; daughter of Hon Job Hammond - 1945:
Laura Hammond notes: For a record of Maj. Gen. John Hammond's sons, see Warfield's History of Anne Arundel & Howard Counties, p. 178-184. See also Ancestral Records and Portraits, vol. I, pp. 151-254, 508-509, 629-630.
Laura Hammond devoted a whole page to Maj. Gen. John Hammond. The copy of the text was cut off on the right-hand margin, thus where parts were missing, '---'as inserted:
"The Hammonds appear in Virginia with the first of the puritan Colony. ----- then went from Virginia to Maryland. "This ancient and knightly family" Mark N---- were greatly divided in their religious and political opinions." Major General John Hammond, who held office in Maryland under Queen Anne, was n------ descended from a Royalist, while we find the name frequently connected to the Crommwelles in England as well as in America." John Hammond, the son of Robert Hammond, court physician to King James I, was in the Isle of Wright, Virginia --- went from there to Maryland. He wrote "Leade Rachel" (could be Leahe Rachel), the first account of the ---- colonyes. He (this John Hammond) came to Virginia in 1634. Fr. then he went to Maryland where he lived for 18 or 19 years, before he returned to England. He was not, however, as --- appears, the founder of the family of the Hammonds who sprang from Maryland. "John of the Severn" (1653-1707) was their ancestor.
The Next immigrant in Anne Arundel County was John Hammond -----. His estates joined the Howards, and he was brother-in-law of them as he married Mary Howard, daughter of Matthew Howard, and sister of Cornelius Howard I. His mother was Ann Hall. In 1689 he was a member of the Provencial Court of Anne Arundel, and one of "the Quorum". In 1692 he was a deligate to --- Lower House with Col. H. Ridgley and Hon. J. Dorsey. Still later he w---- by the royal administration with who he was in favor, Judge of ---- Court of Admiralty. A concise history of his career is recorded in the annals of St. Anne Church, Annapolis as an obituary notice. He was one of the vestry at the time of his death, and an ardent member of the Church of England. He gave, in 1695m a ---- a church site upon "Severn Heights" to his 'friends, members of the Westminister ------- The only consideration was, "the love he bore his neighbors." He acquired a large estate in both the city of Annapolis, and upon the Severn. He was considered a leading member of the county. It has frequently been written that his English progenitors were ---- eminence in both medicine and politics. St. Anne's records upon his death, in St. Anne Church reads: "Hon. John Hammond, Esq., Maj. Gen. of the Western shore of Maryland, One of her Majesty's most honorable council and Judge of the High Court of Admir---- the Province of Maryland, was buried the 29th of Nov. 1707. In St. Anne's grounds ---- tombstone now rests. Long after all vestiges of his old homestead upon the Severn --- disappeared, this memorial was found and removed to the church grounds of his --- St. Anne's Church has also a well preserved Bible, purchased by the vestry from a le---- of 10f left by him to the church. General Hammond was one of the Commissioners --- to lay out lots and organize the town of Annapolis. General Hammond's wi---- "I leave my home plantation to my wife, Mary (Howard) Hammond, My eldest son, Thomas --- plantation called "Mt. Airy Neck". to my son John, the plantation where he lives, a ---- "Swan Neck"; to my son William, the other part. Son Charles Flushing, "Deer Creek ---"Rich Neck" and "Hammond's Forest:. To my first three sons, my houses and ---- Annapolis. My four sons to be my executors."
Wife: Mary Howard, died 1721. Children: Mary, Thomas, John, William, Charles.
Maj General John Hammond and his wife Mary Howard Hammond were my 8th great grandparents. Ruth Davis Root∼MAJOR GENERALL OF YE WESTERN SHORE
His obituary from St. Anne's Parish:
November 29, 1707: Then was Buried by the Reverend Mr. James Wolton Rector of St. Ann's Parish The Honorable John Hammond, Esq., Major Genll of the Western Shore of This Her Majesty's Province of Maryland, and one of Her Majesty's Most Honorable Councell, and Judge of the High Court of Admiralty in the said Province.
The following is from Harry Wright Newman’s Anne Arundel Gentry: Volume One, pages 190-5:
MAJOR GENERAL JOHN HAMMOND, ESQ.
(1643 — 1707)
The refusal of John Hammond, son of Thomas, to bear arms in 1662, because of religious convictions and before his death attaining the highest military grade known under Provincial years is one of the paradoxes which is found in human nature or family history. He was definitely a member of the Quaker Church, as ample proof exists to dispute any arguments to the contrary. The Quakers with their peculiar and arbitrary beliefs would not fight, yet at the same time they did not reject their protection and benefits which the Loyalists offered them. The year of his conviction was 1662, when Charles, 3d Baron of Baltimore, reigned as Lord Proprietary and ruled as Governor of the Province concurrently. Extant records do not indicate that he participated in the Fendell Rebellion in 1659-60. Circumstances are such that he and his father had not arrived in the Province. After his condemnation as a Quaker he was convinced of the virtues and benefits in the ancient faith of the English Church, became a vestryman of the court church in Annapolis and presented St. Anne’s Parish with a Bible upon his death.
Inasmuch as his birth occurred in or about 1643, there are reasons to believe that it occurred in England. Until 1683 he professed the Dogma of the Quakers, and it was perhaps that year that he quarreled with the brethren.
At a Man’s Meeting at Thomas Hooker’s on November 2, 1680, the following appears within the minutes of the Meeting (The microfilm copy of the minutes at the Maryland State Archives is extremely difficult to read, with many words indecipherable):
“Thomas Hooker and Tho Lyncicum Returns an Answer to the Meeting that they according to the last men’s Meeting Ordered & delivered the answer to Henry Perpoint’s pamphet & it was Read in a Publique meeting of their by his Consent. It is agreed upon the meeting Richd Hall, Tho: Hooker, Francis Billingsley, Richard Johns, Nathan Smith and Jno Hammon Doe meet the next second day come week at the meeting house at Herring Creek about the tenth houre to heare Debate & determine the Matter of differences that Jno Tyman and Richard Session has against William Richardson.”
The following minutes from the the “Half Years Meeting at the House of John Edmondson the 9th day of the 8th month 1683” indicate that condemnation proceedings for some reason were issued against John Hammond:
“Several papers of condemnation being drawn by friends of the Western Shore against Edward Lawson, John Waggstaff and John Hamon and the rest of the Separate meeting at John Lymons for friends of this meeting to signify their unity in answer thereto this meeting being fully Satisfied that friends of the Western Shore have . . . with them according to the good end of truth do unamosly signify their unity with friends in giving forth the said papers of condemnation.”
In 1685 two years after his condemnation he received his first public office of trust, then being fully 42 years of age. The Province was still under the government of the Calverts, yet the Liberals were becoming strongly entrenched politically, so it cannot be assumed that the honour emulated from Lord Baltimore. In politics he was anti-Proprietary, so his greatest achievements occurred when Maryland was directly under the Crown, and no planter had any greater honours.
It has been said that John Hammond was twice married. Circumstances now bear out that fact. The name of his first wife and certainly the mother of his children is said to be Mary, the daughter of Matthew Howard Sr. If such be the case, then she died by 1678.
Thomas Roper, a planter of Anne Arundel, died testate. His last will and testament was probated on November 13, 1677, having been written only a few weeks previously. He made his wife, Mary, the sole executrix of his estate and devised her one-half of the unnamed dwelling-plantation. To his only child, Mary, he devised “Roper’s Increase,” of 300 acres, in Baltimore County, and one-half of the dwelling-plantation at majority. William Mitchell and Dr. William Jones were appointed the overseers.
By November 1, 1678, John Hammond had married the Widow Roper and Dr. William Jones, one of the overseers, was deceased. On that date William Mitchell petitioned Philip Calvert, Esq., Chief Judge of Probate, that he was “appointed overseer of the last will and testament of Thomas Roper, late of Anne Arundel County, deceased, and in his will Requesting them [he and Jones] in case his Wife should marry to secure his Child’s Estate ye said Widow is since Maryed to John Hammond of ye Sd County Who is likely to Imbezzell ye sd Estate and therefore humby craves Citation to Mary Hammond ye Relict of ye sd Thomas Roper to Render Acct to Acct before your Hon of ye sd Thomas Roper Estate that ye orphant’s share may be by ye County Court secured.”
It is therefore evident that John Hammond married the widow sometime after November 13, 1677 and before November 1, 1678. If the Widow Roper were his wife at the time of his death in 1707, therefore, a married life of approximately 29 years occurred. But John Hammond had married sons as early as 1690, within 13 years after his marriage to the widow, so there is definite evidence that John Hammond was previously married and that the Widow Roper could not possibly be the mother of his four sons.
Children of John Hammond
1. Thomas Hammond, married Widow Lightfoot and Mary Heath.
2. John Hammond, married Ann Greenberry.
3. William Hammond, married Elizabeth Cockey.
4. Charles Hammond, married Hannah Howard.
The burning of the Court House in Annapolis destroyed many early land conveyances, but afterwards many planters brought their original deeds to be recorded for posterity. In this manner we find that John Hammond was buying land as early as June 21, 1670. On that day he purchased from John Anniss and Francies Smith a tract of land of 50 acres on the north side of the Severn adjoining land of Nicholas Wyatt which Anniss and Smith had bought of William Frissell granted to him on September 22, 1683, under the name of “Adventure.” On June 14, 1691, John Hammond Sr. and Mary his wife deeded to Henry Ridgely for divers good causes and considerations this tract known as “Adventure.” John Hammond signed the deed, while his wife made her X mark.
On April 2, 1702, styled John Hammond, Gent., he purchased from Samuel Norwood, of Anne Arundel, Gent., for £110 “Strawberry Plaine,” of 100 acres, on the north side of the Severn between the land formerly laid out for Edward Lloyd called “Swan Neck” on a branch of Forked Creek. Samuel Norwood signed the deed of conveyance. On February 25, 1702/3, as Col. John Hammond, Gent., he bought of Thomas Reynolds, Gent., for £90 land on the south side of Christopher Hall’s plantation in Swan Neck of 100 acres as conveyed to Edward Lloyd, late of the Severn, Gent., to Richard Horner, with improvements. Sarah Reynolds waived all dower rights before Charles Hammond, Justice of the Peace.
Few men in the colonial period of the American Colonies served in more official capacities than John Hammond. His first office of note was when he was placed on the commission in 1684 to lay out the town of Annapolis. This was followed the next year, when, on December 9, 1685, he was appointed a Justice of the Peace for Anne Arundel and made a member of the Quorum.
By 1691 when the liberal elements were well entrenched in the Province he was styled Captain John Hammond and it was the year that he returned to England. The reason for his trip to England is unknown. Often the planters returned to settle their inherited estates, while others returned for political reasons. Few returned for pleasure. Those who went back for sentiment usually remained. He was back in Maryland the next year, for as Captain John Hammond, he was recommissioned Justice of the Peace. By 1694 he had been advanced to Major and was appointed justice of the Provincial Court as a member of the Quorum. In 1699 he was an Associate Justice of the Court of Chancery and on October 14, 1702, as Colonel John Hammond he subscribed to the Oath as Justice of the Vice Admiralty Court. In 1698 he was among the commissioners appointed to settle the boundary between Anne Arundel and Baltimore Counties.
It is concluded from a study of his public career that he rose steadily from Captain of a “Troop of Horse” in 1694, that is, the cavalry, the most romantic branch of the service in that day, to Major General. With his genius for the military, it is still an unsolved reason why his name was missing among the youths and men of Anne Arundel County who fought in the Nanticoke Indian War on the Eastern Shore and who received compensation for their services in 1678. It is evident that at that time he was still a member of the Quaker faith and therefore had reserve against fighting the Indians.
On October 4, 1699, as Lieutenant Colonel, he was advanced to a colonelcy to command all the military forces in Anne Arundel County, and on July 17, 1707, Governor Seymour, the Royal Governor, commissioned him Major General to command all military units on the Western Shore. At that time he was fully sixty-four years of age, but certainly still active and virile.
“Commissioned Major General of all and Singular Forces belonging to the Militia within the six companies of the Western Shore in this Her Majesty’s Province, both of Horse and Foot Commanding and Requiring the several Colonels and Commanders and other Subalterne Officers, Soldiers and Troopers of the said Militia to be in all Respects Obedient to your commands.”
All during his activity in the defense of the Province and his presiding on the bench in several courts of justice, he served from 1692 to 1698 as a delegate to the Lower House of the Assembly. He was then elevated to the Council by the Governor and he presumably attended his first session as Major John Hammond on June 4, 1698. He served continuously until the time of his death.
The following obituary appears among the archives of St. Anne’s Parish:
“November 29, 1707: Then was Buried by the Reverend Mr. James Wolton Rector of St. Ann’s Parish The Honorable John Hammond, Esq., Major Genll of the Western Shore of This Her Majesty’s Province of Maryland, and one of Her Majesty’s Most Honorable Councell, and Judge of the High Court of Admiralty in the said Province.”
He was buried on his plantation, but later his grave-stone was placed in the church yard of St. Anne’s in Annapolis. The inscription reads: “Here lieth the body of Major General John Hammond who departed this life the twenty-fourth day of November 1707 in the sixty-fourth year of his age.”
His last will and testament was drawn up on November 11, 1707, in the presence of John Brice, Henry Pinkney and Elizabeth Abrahams. It was probated in Anne Arundel County, on December 4, following.
To his wife Mary he devised the dwelling-plantation “Mountain Neck” of 250 acres, which was to be inherited by son Thomas upon her death; also “The Addition,” of 22 acres.
To son Thomas in addition to the parental plantation he was devised “Heath” of 220 acres in the Patapsco where he was then seated, “Wheatley Neck” of 100 acres, and £75 to be invested in land.
To son John the plantation on the north side of the Severn where he was then seated, “Swan Neck” near the Severn, “Horners” of 100 acres bought of Thomas Reynolds, “The Adventure” of 50 acres and “Forked Neck” of 50 acres.
To son William the plantation on which he then dwelt, presumably a portion of “Swan Neck,” “Strawberry Plain,” of 100 acres, “The Addition” of 50 acres, and “Brushy Neck” of 50 acres.
To son Charles “Flushing” of 100 acres, “Deep Creek Poynt” of 50 acres, “Rich Neck” and 284 acres at the Patuxent, and “Hammond’s Forest” of 362 acres.
To his three sons John, William and Charles he devised all houses, lots and the like in Annapolis Town.
To St. Anne’s Church £10.
Executors—his four named sons.
His original will with his signature is extant and was probably written by John Brice. There are three blotches of red wax, one beside his signature, but none can be detected as armorial impressions.
The inventory and appraisement of his personal estate occurred on December 11, 1707, and were approved by his widow, Mary X Hammond, and the two sons, Thomas Hammond and Charles Hammond, both of whom signed their names. The inventory showed a plantation at Flussing, at Seeses Quarters, and “at John Hammond.”
Among the items were one silver hilt sword and belt valued at £2, one silver headed cane, silver tankard and silver plate, 12 long back leather chairs, six guns, dictionary and law books, 22 negro slaves, one old boat 14 feet long, one boat 17 feet well rigged, two canoes, and one gallon of rum. The entire personal estate was appraised at £1,002/11/6.
At an account filed on April 2, 1708, by John Hammond and Charles Hammond, the value of the personal estate had increased to £1,839/18/2. Dr. John Rattenberry who attended the deceased in his last illness received £16/5/—, and £35 were earmarked for funeral charges. In all respects it must have been an elaborate affair, presumably a State funeral to have cost that amount. In that day it was always customary to serve “strong liquid refreshments” at an interment. An account filed on August 8, 1710, by all four sons, showed a legacy of £11 to St. Anne’s Parish.
His widow, Mary Hammond, survived him by many years, dying in 1721. Her will, dated April 4, 1721, was probated two days later. The witnesses were John Unett, William Anglin and Anne Selby, whereas Moses Maccubin and Cornelius Howard were present at the probate. Her only heirs were her grandchildren, identified as the children of her Roper daughter who married Cornelius Howard, son of Captain Cornelius Howard.
To grandsons John, Thomas and Cornelius Howard personalty.
To granddaughters Sarah Howard and Elinor Howard
personalty.
Residue of estate to grandchildren—Thomas, Sarah and Elinor Howard.
Executor—John Beale and he to be guardian of grandson John Howard and to see that he received a good education.
The administration bond was dated April 21, 1721, with Stephen Warman and Vachel Denton as the sureties for John Beale, Esq. Mordecai Hammond and Joshua George witnessed the instrument. No inventory has been found and no administration accounts.
Here lieth interred the body of Major General John Hammond who departed this life the 24 day of November 1707 in the sixty fourth year of his age.
**From Linda who left flowers for Maj General: St. Anne's records upon his death, in 1707, reads: "Hon. John Hammond, Esq., Major-General of the Western Shore of Maryland, one of her majesty's most honorable Council and Judge of the High Court of Admiralty in the Province of Maryland, was buried the 29th of November 1707." Thank you Linda.
**From James and Sharon Cissell who sent the following email: Birth 5 Dec 1643 • England. Find A Grave says he was mother was Ann Hall but that was his mother-in-law. Thank you James and Sharon
From the genealogy of Laura Hammond, Atlanta, Fulton County, Georgia; daughter of Hon Job Hammond - 1945:
Laura Hammond notes: For a record of Maj. Gen. John Hammond's sons, see Warfield's History of Anne Arundel & Howard Counties, p. 178-184. See also Ancestral Records and Portraits, vol. I, pp. 151-254, 508-509, 629-630.
Laura Hammond devoted a whole page to Maj. Gen. John Hammond. The copy of the text was cut off on the right-hand margin, thus where parts were missing, '---'as inserted:
"The Hammonds appear in Virginia with the first of the puritan Colony. ----- then went from Virginia to Maryland. "This ancient and knightly family" Mark N---- were greatly divided in their religious and political opinions." Major General John Hammond, who held office in Maryland under Queen Anne, was n------ descended from a Royalist, while we find the name frequently connected to the Crommwelles in England as well as in America." John Hammond, the son of Robert Hammond, court physician to King James I, was in the Isle of Wright, Virginia --- went from there to Maryland. He wrote "Leade Rachel" (could be Leahe Rachel), the first account of the ---- colonyes. He (this John Hammond) came to Virginia in 1634. Fr. then he went to Maryland where he lived for 18 or 19 years, before he returned to England. He was not, however, as --- appears, the founder of the family of the Hammonds who sprang from Maryland. "John of the Severn" (1653-1707) was their ancestor.
The Next immigrant in Anne Arundel County was John Hammond -----. His estates joined the Howards, and he was brother-in-law of them as he married Mary Howard, daughter of Matthew Howard, and sister of Cornelius Howard I. His mother was Ann Hall. In 1689 he was a member of the Provencial Court of Anne Arundel, and one of "the Quorum". In 1692 he was a deligate to --- Lower House with Col. H. Ridgley and Hon. J. Dorsey. Still later he w---- by the royal administration with who he was in favor, Judge of ---- Court of Admiralty. A concise history of his career is recorded in the annals of St. Anne Church, Annapolis as an obituary notice. He was one of the vestry at the time of his death, and an ardent member of the Church of England. He gave, in 1695m a ---- a church site upon "Severn Heights" to his 'friends, members of the Westminister ------- The only consideration was, "the love he bore his neighbors." He acquired a large estate in both the city of Annapolis, and upon the Severn. He was considered a leading member of the county. It has frequently been written that his English progenitors were ---- eminence in both medicine and politics. St. Anne's records upon his death, in St. Anne Church reads: "Hon. John Hammond, Esq., Maj. Gen. of the Western shore of Maryland, One of her Majesty's most honorable council and Judge of the High Court of Admir---- the Province of Maryland, was buried the 29th of Nov. 1707. In St. Anne's grounds ---- tombstone now rests. Long after all vestiges of his old homestead upon the Severn --- disappeared, this memorial was found and removed to the church grounds of his --- St. Anne's Church has also a well preserved Bible, purchased by the vestry from a le---- of 10f left by him to the church. General Hammond was one of the Commissioners --- to lay out lots and organize the town of Annapolis. General Hammond's wi---- "I leave my home plantation to my wife, Mary (Howard) Hammond, My eldest son, Thomas --- plantation called "Mt. Airy Neck". to my son John, the plantation where he lives, a ---- "Swan Neck"; to my son William, the other part. Son Charles Flushing, "Deer Creek ---"Rich Neck" and "Hammond's Forest:. To my first three sons, my houses and ---- Annapolis. My four sons to be my executors."
Wife: Mary Howard, died 1721. Children: Mary, Thomas, John, William, Charles.
Maj General John Hammond and his wife Mary Howard Hammond were my 8th great grandparents. Ruth Davis Root∼MAJOR GENERALL OF YE WESTERN SHORE
His obituary from St. Anne's Parish:
November 29, 1707: Then was Buried by the Reverend Mr. James Wolton Rector of St. Ann's Parish The Honorable John Hammond, Esq., Major Genll of the Western Shore of This Her Majesty's Province of Maryland, and one of Her Majesty's Most Honorable Councell, and Judge of the High Court of Admiralty in the said Province.
The following is from Harry Wright Newman’s Anne Arundel Gentry: Volume One, pages 190-5:
MAJOR GENERAL JOHN HAMMOND, ESQ.
(1643 — 1707)
The refusal of John Hammond, son of Thomas, to bear arms in 1662, because of religious convictions and before his death attaining the highest military grade known under Provincial years is one of the paradoxes which is found in human nature or family history. He was definitely a member of the Quaker Church, as ample proof exists to dispute any arguments to the contrary. The Quakers with their peculiar and arbitrary beliefs would not fight, yet at the same time they did not reject their protection and benefits which the Loyalists offered them. The year of his conviction was 1662, when Charles, 3d Baron of Baltimore, reigned as Lord Proprietary and ruled as Governor of the Province concurrently. Extant records do not indicate that he participated in the Fendell Rebellion in 1659-60. Circumstances are such that he and his father had not arrived in the Province. After his condemnation as a Quaker he was convinced of the virtues and benefits in the ancient faith of the English Church, became a vestryman of the court church in Annapolis and presented St. Anne’s Parish with a Bible upon his death.
Inasmuch as his birth occurred in or about 1643, there are reasons to believe that it occurred in England. Until 1683 he professed the Dogma of the Quakers, and it was perhaps that year that he quarreled with the brethren.
At a Man’s Meeting at Thomas Hooker’s on November 2, 1680, the following appears within the minutes of the Meeting (The microfilm copy of the minutes at the Maryland State Archives is extremely difficult to read, with many words indecipherable):
“Thomas Hooker and Tho Lyncicum Returns an Answer to the Meeting that they according to the last men’s Meeting Ordered & delivered the answer to Henry Perpoint’s pamphet & it was Read in a Publique meeting of their by his Consent. It is agreed upon the meeting Richd Hall, Tho: Hooker, Francis Billingsley, Richard Johns, Nathan Smith and Jno Hammon Doe meet the next second day come week at the meeting house at Herring Creek about the tenth houre to heare Debate & determine the Matter of differences that Jno Tyman and Richard Session has against William Richardson.”
The following minutes from the the “Half Years Meeting at the House of John Edmondson the 9th day of the 8th month 1683” indicate that condemnation proceedings for some reason were issued against John Hammond:
“Several papers of condemnation being drawn by friends of the Western Shore against Edward Lawson, John Waggstaff and John Hamon and the rest of the Separate meeting at John Lymons for friends of this meeting to signify their unity in answer thereto this meeting being fully Satisfied that friends of the Western Shore have . . . with them according to the good end of truth do unamosly signify their unity with friends in giving forth the said papers of condemnation.”
In 1685 two years after his condemnation he received his first public office of trust, then being fully 42 years of age. The Province was still under the government of the Calverts, yet the Liberals were becoming strongly entrenched politically, so it cannot be assumed that the honour emulated from Lord Baltimore. In politics he was anti-Proprietary, so his greatest achievements occurred when Maryland was directly under the Crown, and no planter had any greater honours.
It has been said that John Hammond was twice married. Circumstances now bear out that fact. The name of his first wife and certainly the mother of his children is said to be Mary, the daughter of Matthew Howard Sr. If such be the case, then she died by 1678.
Thomas Roper, a planter of Anne Arundel, died testate. His last will and testament was probated on November 13, 1677, having been written only a few weeks previously. He made his wife, Mary, the sole executrix of his estate and devised her one-half of the unnamed dwelling-plantation. To his only child, Mary, he devised “Roper’s Increase,” of 300 acres, in Baltimore County, and one-half of the dwelling-plantation at majority. William Mitchell and Dr. William Jones were appointed the overseers.
By November 1, 1678, John Hammond had married the Widow Roper and Dr. William Jones, one of the overseers, was deceased. On that date William Mitchell petitioned Philip Calvert, Esq., Chief Judge of Probate, that he was “appointed overseer of the last will and testament of Thomas Roper, late of Anne Arundel County, deceased, and in his will Requesting them [he and Jones] in case his Wife should marry to secure his Child’s Estate ye said Widow is since Maryed to John Hammond of ye Sd County Who is likely to Imbezzell ye sd Estate and therefore humby craves Citation to Mary Hammond ye Relict of ye sd Thomas Roper to Render Acct to Acct before your Hon of ye sd Thomas Roper Estate that ye orphant’s share may be by ye County Court secured.”
It is therefore evident that John Hammond married the widow sometime after November 13, 1677 and before November 1, 1678. If the Widow Roper were his wife at the time of his death in 1707, therefore, a married life of approximately 29 years occurred. But John Hammond had married sons as early as 1690, within 13 years after his marriage to the widow, so there is definite evidence that John Hammond was previously married and that the Widow Roper could not possibly be the mother of his four sons.
Children of John Hammond
1. Thomas Hammond, married Widow Lightfoot and Mary Heath.
2. John Hammond, married Ann Greenberry.
3. William Hammond, married Elizabeth Cockey.
4. Charles Hammond, married Hannah Howard.
The burning of the Court House in Annapolis destroyed many early land conveyances, but afterwards many planters brought their original deeds to be recorded for posterity. In this manner we find that John Hammond was buying land as early as June 21, 1670. On that day he purchased from John Anniss and Francies Smith a tract of land of 50 acres on the north side of the Severn adjoining land of Nicholas Wyatt which Anniss and Smith had bought of William Frissell granted to him on September 22, 1683, under the name of “Adventure.” On June 14, 1691, John Hammond Sr. and Mary his wife deeded to Henry Ridgely for divers good causes and considerations this tract known as “Adventure.” John Hammond signed the deed, while his wife made her X mark.
On April 2, 1702, styled John Hammond, Gent., he purchased from Samuel Norwood, of Anne Arundel, Gent., for £110 “Strawberry Plaine,” of 100 acres, on the north side of the Severn between the land formerly laid out for Edward Lloyd called “Swan Neck” on a branch of Forked Creek. Samuel Norwood signed the deed of conveyance. On February 25, 1702/3, as Col. John Hammond, Gent., he bought of Thomas Reynolds, Gent., for £90 land on the south side of Christopher Hall’s plantation in Swan Neck of 100 acres as conveyed to Edward Lloyd, late of the Severn, Gent., to Richard Horner, with improvements. Sarah Reynolds waived all dower rights before Charles Hammond, Justice of the Peace.
Few men in the colonial period of the American Colonies served in more official capacities than John Hammond. His first office of note was when he was placed on the commission in 1684 to lay out the town of Annapolis. This was followed the next year, when, on December 9, 1685, he was appointed a Justice of the Peace for Anne Arundel and made a member of the Quorum.
By 1691 when the liberal elements were well entrenched in the Province he was styled Captain John Hammond and it was the year that he returned to England. The reason for his trip to England is unknown. Often the planters returned to settle their inherited estates, while others returned for political reasons. Few returned for pleasure. Those who went back for sentiment usually remained. He was back in Maryland the next year, for as Captain John Hammond, he was recommissioned Justice of the Peace. By 1694 he had been advanced to Major and was appointed justice of the Provincial Court as a member of the Quorum. In 1699 he was an Associate Justice of the Court of Chancery and on October 14, 1702, as Colonel John Hammond he subscribed to the Oath as Justice of the Vice Admiralty Court. In 1698 he was among the commissioners appointed to settle the boundary between Anne Arundel and Baltimore Counties.
It is concluded from a study of his public career that he rose steadily from Captain of a “Troop of Horse” in 1694, that is, the cavalry, the most romantic branch of the service in that day, to Major General. With his genius for the military, it is still an unsolved reason why his name was missing among the youths and men of Anne Arundel County who fought in the Nanticoke Indian War on the Eastern Shore and who received compensation for their services in 1678. It is evident that at that time he was still a member of the Quaker faith and therefore had reserve against fighting the Indians.
On October 4, 1699, as Lieutenant Colonel, he was advanced to a colonelcy to command all the military forces in Anne Arundel County, and on July 17, 1707, Governor Seymour, the Royal Governor, commissioned him Major General to command all military units on the Western Shore. At that time he was fully sixty-four years of age, but certainly still active and virile.
“Commissioned Major General of all and Singular Forces belonging to the Militia within the six companies of the Western Shore in this Her Majesty’s Province, both of Horse and Foot Commanding and Requiring the several Colonels and Commanders and other Subalterne Officers, Soldiers and Troopers of the said Militia to be in all Respects Obedient to your commands.”
All during his activity in the defense of the Province and his presiding on the bench in several courts of justice, he served from 1692 to 1698 as a delegate to the Lower House of the Assembly. He was then elevated to the Council by the Governor and he presumably attended his first session as Major John Hammond on June 4, 1698. He served continuously until the time of his death.
The following obituary appears among the archives of St. Anne’s Parish:
“November 29, 1707: Then was Buried by the Reverend Mr. James Wolton Rector of St. Ann’s Parish The Honorable John Hammond, Esq., Major Genll of the Western Shore of This Her Majesty’s Province of Maryland, and one of Her Majesty’s Most Honorable Councell, and Judge of the High Court of Admiralty in the said Province.”
He was buried on his plantation, but later his grave-stone was placed in the church yard of St. Anne’s in Annapolis. The inscription reads: “Here lieth the body of Major General John Hammond who departed this life the twenty-fourth day of November 1707 in the sixty-fourth year of his age.”
His last will and testament was drawn up on November 11, 1707, in the presence of John Brice, Henry Pinkney and Elizabeth Abrahams. It was probated in Anne Arundel County, on December 4, following.
To his wife Mary he devised the dwelling-plantation “Mountain Neck” of 250 acres, which was to be inherited by son Thomas upon her death; also “The Addition,” of 22 acres.
To son Thomas in addition to the parental plantation he was devised “Heath” of 220 acres in the Patapsco where he was then seated, “Wheatley Neck” of 100 acres, and £75 to be invested in land.
To son John the plantation on the north side of the Severn where he was then seated, “Swan Neck” near the Severn, “Horners” of 100 acres bought of Thomas Reynolds, “The Adventure” of 50 acres and “Forked Neck” of 50 acres.
To son William the plantation on which he then dwelt, presumably a portion of “Swan Neck,” “Strawberry Plain,” of 100 acres, “The Addition” of 50 acres, and “Brushy Neck” of 50 acres.
To son Charles “Flushing” of 100 acres, “Deep Creek Poynt” of 50 acres, “Rich Neck” and 284 acres at the Patuxent, and “Hammond’s Forest” of 362 acres.
To his three sons John, William and Charles he devised all houses, lots and the like in Annapolis Town.
To St. Anne’s Church £10.
Executors—his four named sons.
His original will with his signature is extant and was probably written by John Brice. There are three blotches of red wax, one beside his signature, but none can be detected as armorial impressions.
The inventory and appraisement of his personal estate occurred on December 11, 1707, and were approved by his widow, Mary X Hammond, and the two sons, Thomas Hammond and Charles Hammond, both of whom signed their names. The inventory showed a plantation at Flussing, at Seeses Quarters, and “at John Hammond.”
Among the items were one silver hilt sword and belt valued at £2, one silver headed cane, silver tankard and silver plate, 12 long back leather chairs, six guns, dictionary and law books, 22 negro slaves, one old boat 14 feet long, one boat 17 feet well rigged, two canoes, and one gallon of rum. The entire personal estate was appraised at £1,002/11/6.
At an account filed on April 2, 1708, by John Hammond and Charles Hammond, the value of the personal estate had increased to £1,839/18/2. Dr. John Rattenberry who attended the deceased in his last illness received £16/5/—, and £35 were earmarked for funeral charges. In all respects it must have been an elaborate affair, presumably a State funeral to have cost that amount. In that day it was always customary to serve “strong liquid refreshments” at an interment. An account filed on August 8, 1710, by all four sons, showed a legacy of £11 to St. Anne’s Parish.
His widow, Mary Hammond, survived him by many years, dying in 1721. Her will, dated April 4, 1721, was probated two days later. The witnesses were John Unett, William Anglin and Anne Selby, whereas Moses Maccubin and Cornelius Howard were present at the probate. Her only heirs were her grandchildren, identified as the children of her Roper daughter who married Cornelius Howard, son of Captain Cornelius Howard.
To grandsons John, Thomas and Cornelius Howard personalty.
To granddaughters Sarah Howard and Elinor Howard
personalty.
Residue of estate to grandchildren—Thomas, Sarah and Elinor Howard.
Executor—John Beale and he to be guardian of grandson John Howard and to see that he received a good education.
The administration bond was dated April 21, 1721, with Stephen Warman and Vachel Denton as the sureties for John Beale, Esq. Mordecai Hammond and Joshua George witnessed the instrument. No inventory has been found and no administration accounts.
Headstone Inscription:
Here lieth interred the body of Major General John Hammond who departed this life the 24 day of November 1707 in the sixty fourth year of his age.
**From Linda who left flowers for Maj General: St. Anne's records upon his death, in 1707, reads: "Hon. John Hammond, Esq., Major-General of the Western Shore of Maryland, one of her majesty's most honorable Council and Judge of the High Court of Admiralty in the Province of Maryland, was buried the 29th of November 1707." Thank you Linda.
**From James and Sharon Cissell who sent the following email: Birth 5 Dec 1643 • England. Find A Grave says he was mother was Ann Hall but that was his mother-in-law. Thank you James and Sharon
From the genealogy of Laura Hammond, Atlanta, Fulton County, Georgia; daughter of Hon Job Hammond - 1945:
Laura Hammond notes: For a record of Maj. Gen. John Hammond's sons, see Warfield's History of Anne Arundel & Howard Counties, p. 178-184. See also Ancestral Records and Portraits, vol. I, pp. 151-254, 508-509, 629-630.
Laura Hammond devoted a whole page to Maj. Gen. John Hammond. The copy of the text was cut off on the right-hand margin, thus where parts were missing, '---'as inserted:
"The Hammonds appear in Virginia with the first of the puritan Colony. ----- then went from Virginia to Maryland. "This ancient and knightly family" Mark N---- were greatly divided in their religious and political opinions." Major General John Hammond, who held office in Maryland under Queen Anne, was n------ descended from a Royalist, while we find the name frequently connected to the Crommwelles in England as well as in America." John Hammond, the son of Robert Hammond, court physician to King James I, was in the Isle of Wright, Virginia --- went from there to Maryland. He wrote "Leade Rachel" (could be Leahe Rachel), the first account of the ---- colonyes. He (this John Hammond) came to Virginia in 1634. Fr. then he went to Maryland where he lived for 18 or 19 years, before he returned to England. He was not, however, as --- appears, the founder of the family of the Hammonds who sprang from Maryland. "John of the Severn" (1653-1707) was their ancestor.
The Next immigrant in Anne Arundel County was John Hammond -----. His estates joined the Howards, and he was brother-in-law of them as he married Mary Howard, daughter of Matthew Howard, and sister of Cornelius Howard I. His mother was Ann Hall. In 1689 he was a member of the Provencial Court of Anne Arundel, and one of "the Quorum". In 1692 he was a deligate to --- Lower House with Col. H. Ridgley and Hon. J. Dorsey. Still later he w---- by the royal administration with who he was in favor, Judge of ---- Court of Admiralty. A concise history of his career is recorded in the annals of St. Anne Church, Annapolis as an obituary notice. He was one of the vestry at the time of his death, and an ardent member of the Church of England. He gave, in 1695m a ---- a church site upon "Severn Heights" to his 'friends, members of the Westminister ------- The only consideration was, "the love he bore his neighbors." He acquired a large estate in both the city of Annapolis, and upon the Severn. He was considered a leading member of the county. It has frequently been written that his English progenitors were ---- eminence in both medicine and politics. St. Anne's records upon his death, in St. Anne Church reads: "Hon. John Hammond, Esq., Maj. Gen. of the Western shore of Maryland, One of her Majesty's most honorable council and Judge of the High Court of Admir---- the Province of Maryland, was buried the 29th of Nov. 1707. In St. Anne's grounds ---- tombstone now rests. Long after all vestiges of his old homestead upon the Severn --- disappeared, this memorial was found and removed to the church grounds of his --- St. Anne's Church has also a well preserved Bible, purchased by the vestry from a le---- of 10f left by him to the church. General Hammond was one of the Commissioners --- to lay out lots and organize the town of Annapolis. General Hammond's wi---- "I leave my home plantation to my wife, Mary (Howard) Hammond, My eldest son, Thomas --- plantation called "Mt. Airy Neck". to my son John, the plantation where he lives, a ---- "Swan Neck"; to my son William, the other part. Son Charles Flushing, "Deer Creek ---"Rich Neck" and "Hammond's Forest:. To my first three sons, my houses and ---- Annapolis. My four sons to be my executors."
Wife: Mary Howard, died 1721. Children: Mary, Thomas, John, William, Charles.
Maj General John Hammond and his wife Mary Howard Hammond were my 8th great grandparents. Ruth Davis Root∼MAJOR GENERALL OF YE WESTERN SHORE
His obituary from St. Anne's Parish:
November 29, 1707: Then was Buried by the Reverend Mr. James Wolton Rector of St. Ann's Parish The Honorable John Hammond, Esq., Major Genll of the Western Shore of This Her Majesty's Province of Maryland, and one of Her Majesty's Most Honorable Councell, and Judge of the High Court of Admiralty in the said Province.
The following is from Harry Wright Newman’s Anne Arundel Gentry: Volume One, pages 190-5:
MAJOR GENERAL JOHN HAMMOND, ESQ.
(1643 — 1707)
The refusal of John Hammond, son of Thomas, to bear arms in 1662, because of religious convictions and before his death attaining the highest military grade known under Provincial years is one of the paradoxes which is found in human nature or family history. He was definitely a member of the Quaker Church, as ample proof exists to dispute any arguments to the contrary. The Quakers with their peculiar and arbitrary beliefs would not fight, yet at the same time they did not reject their protection and benefits which the Loyalists offered them. The year of his conviction was 1662, when Charles, 3d Baron of Baltimore, reigned as Lord Proprietary and ruled as Governor of the Province concurrently. Extant records do not indicate that he participated in the Fendell Rebellion in 1659-60. Circumstances are such that he and his father had not arrived in the Province. After his condemnation as a Quaker he was convinced of the virtues and benefits in the ancient faith of the English Church, became a vestryman of the court church in Annapolis and presented St. Anne’s Parish with a Bible upon his death.
Inasmuch as his birth occurred in or about 1643, there are reasons to believe that it occurred in England. Until 1683 he professed the Dogma of the Quakers, and it was perhaps that year that he quarreled with the brethren.
At a Man’s Meeting at Thomas Hooker’s on November 2, 1680, the following appears within the minutes of the Meeting (The microfilm copy of the minutes at the Maryland State Archives is extremely difficult to read, with many words indecipherable):
“Thomas Hooker and Tho Lyncicum Returns an Answer to the Meeting that they according to the last men’s Meeting Ordered & delivered the answer to Henry Perpoint’s pamphet & it was Read in a Publique meeting of their by his Consent. It is agreed upon the meeting Richd Hall, Tho: Hooker, Francis Billingsley, Richard Johns, Nathan Smith and Jno Hammon Doe meet the next second day come week at the meeting house at Herring Creek about the tenth houre to heare Debate & determine the Matter of differences that Jno Tyman and Richard Session has against William Richardson.”
The following minutes from the the “Half Years Meeting at the House of John Edmondson the 9th day of the 8th month 1683” indicate that condemnation proceedings for some reason were issued against John Hammond:
“Several papers of condemnation being drawn by friends of the Western Shore against Edward Lawson, John Waggstaff and John Hamon and the rest of the Separate meeting at John Lymons for friends of this meeting to signify their unity in answer thereto this meeting being fully Satisfied that friends of the Western Shore have . . . with them according to the good end of truth do unamosly signify their unity with friends in giving forth the said papers of condemnation.”
In 1685 two years after his condemnation he received his first public office of trust, then being fully 42 years of age. The Province was still under the government of the Calverts, yet the Liberals were becoming strongly entrenched politically, so it cannot be assumed that the honour emulated from Lord Baltimore. In politics he was anti-Proprietary, so his greatest achievements occurred when Maryland was directly under the Crown, and no planter had any greater honours.
It has been said that John Hammond was twice married. Circumstances now bear out that fact. The name of his first wife and certainly the mother of his children is said to be Mary, the daughter of Matthew Howard Sr. If such be the case, then she died by 1678.
Thomas Roper, a planter of Anne Arundel, died testate. His last will and testament was probated on November 13, 1677, having been written only a few weeks previously. He made his wife, Mary, the sole executrix of his estate and devised her one-half of the unnamed dwelling-plantation. To his only child, Mary, he devised “Roper’s Increase,” of 300 acres, in Baltimore County, and one-half of the dwelling-plantation at majority. William Mitchell and Dr. William Jones were appointed the overseers.
By November 1, 1678, John Hammond had married the Widow Roper and Dr. William Jones, one of the overseers, was deceased. On that date William Mitchell petitioned Philip Calvert, Esq., Chief Judge of Probate, that he was “appointed overseer of the last will and testament of Thomas Roper, late of Anne Arundel County, deceased, and in his will Requesting them [he and Jones] in case his Wife should marry to secure his Child’s Estate ye said Widow is since Maryed to John Hammond of ye Sd County Who is likely to Imbezzell ye sd Estate and therefore humby craves Citation to Mary Hammond ye Relict of ye sd Thomas Roper to Render Acct to Acct before your Hon of ye sd Thomas Roper Estate that ye orphant’s share may be by ye County Court secured.”
It is therefore evident that John Hammond married the widow sometime after November 13, 1677 and before November 1, 1678. If the Widow Roper were his wife at the time of his death in 1707, therefore, a married life of approximately 29 years occurred. But John Hammond had married sons as early as 1690, within 13 years after his marriage to the widow, so there is definite evidence that John Hammond was previously married and that the Widow Roper could not possibly be the mother of his four sons.
Children of John Hammond
1. Thomas Hammond, married Widow Lightfoot and Mary Heath.
2. John Hammond, married Ann Greenberry.
3. William Hammond, married Elizabeth Cockey.
4. Charles Hammond, married Hannah Howard.
The burning of the Court House in Annapolis destroyed many early land conveyances, but afterwards many planters brought their original deeds to be recorded for posterity. In this manner we find that John Hammond was buying land as early as June 21, 1670. On that day he purchased from John Anniss and Francies Smith a tract of land of 50 acres on the north side of the Severn adjoining land of Nicholas Wyatt which Anniss and Smith had bought of William Frissell granted to him on September 22, 1683, under the name of “Adventure.” On June 14, 1691, John Hammond Sr. and Mary his wife deeded to Henry Ridgely for divers good causes and considerations this tract known as “Adventure.” John Hammond signed the deed, while his wife made her X mark.
On April 2, 1702, styled John Hammond, Gent., he purchased from Samuel Norwood, of Anne Arundel, Gent., for £110 “Strawberry Plaine,” of 100 acres, on the north side of the Severn between the land formerly laid out for Edward Lloyd called “Swan Neck” on a branch of Forked Creek. Samuel Norwood signed the deed of conveyance. On February 25, 1702/3, as Col. John Hammond, Gent., he bought of Thomas Reynolds, Gent., for £90 land on the south side of Christopher Hall’s plantation in Swan Neck of 100 acres as conveyed to Edward Lloyd, late of the Severn, Gent., to Richard Horner, with improvements. Sarah Reynolds waived all dower rights before Charles Hammond, Justice of the Peace.
Few men in the colonial period of the American Colonies served in more official capacities than John Hammond. His first office of note was when he was placed on the commission in 1684 to lay out the town of Annapolis. This was followed the next year, when, on December 9, 1685, he was appointed a Justice of the Peace for Anne Arundel and made a member of the Quorum.
By 1691 when the liberal elements were well entrenched in the Province he was styled Captain John Hammond and it was the year that he returned to England. The reason for his trip to England is unknown. Often the planters returned to settle their inherited estates, while others returned for political reasons. Few returned for pleasure. Those who went back for sentiment usually remained. He was back in Maryland the next year, for as Captain John Hammond, he was recommissioned Justice of the Peace. By 1694 he had been advanced to Major and was appointed justice of the Provincial Court as a member of the Quorum. In 1699 he was an Associate Justice of the Court of Chancery and on October 14, 1702, as Colonel John Hammond he subscribed to the Oath as Justice of the Vice Admiralty Court. In 1698 he was among the commissioners appointed to settle the boundary between Anne Arundel and Baltimore Counties.
It is concluded from a study of his public career that he rose steadily from Captain of a “Troop of Horse” in 1694, that is, the cavalry, the most romantic branch of the service in that day, to Major General. With his genius for the military, it is still an unsolved reason why his name was missing among the youths and men of Anne Arundel County who fought in the Nanticoke Indian War on the Eastern Shore and who received compensation for their services in 1678. It is evident that at that time he was still a member of the Quaker faith and therefore had reserve against fighting the Indians.
On October 4, 1699, as Lieutenant Colonel, he was advanced to a colonelcy to command all the military forces in Anne Arundel County, and on July 17, 1707, Governor Seymour, the Royal Governor, commissioned him Major General to command all military units on the Western Shore. At that time he was fully sixty-four years of age, but certainly still active and virile.
“Commissioned Major General of all and Singular Forces belonging to the Militia within the six companies of the Western Shore in this Her Majesty’s Province, both of Horse and Foot Commanding and Requiring the several Colonels and Commanders and other Subalterne Officers, Soldiers and Troopers of the said Militia to be in all Respects Obedient to your commands.”
All during his activity in the defense of the Province and his presiding on the bench in several courts of justice, he served from 1692 to 1698 as a delegate to the Lower House of the Assembly. He was then elevated to the Council by the Governor and he presumably attended his first session as Major John Hammond on June 4, 1698. He served continuously until the time of his death.
The following obituary appears among the archives of St. Anne’s Parish:
“November 29, 1707: Then was Buried by the Reverend Mr. James Wolton Rector of St. Ann’s Parish The Honorable John Hammond, Esq., Major Genll of the Western Shore of This Her Majesty’s Province of Maryland, and one of Her Majesty’s Most Honorable Councell, and Judge of the High Court of Admiralty in the said Province.”
He was buried on his plantation, but later his grave-stone was placed in the church yard of St. Anne’s in Annapolis. The inscription reads: “Here lieth the body of Major General John Hammond who departed this life the twenty-fourth day of November 1707 in the sixty-fourth year of his age.”
His last will and testament was drawn up on November 11, 1707, in the presence of John Brice, Henry Pinkney and Elizabeth Abrahams. It was probated in Anne Arundel County, on December 4, following.
To his wife Mary he devised the dwelling-plantation “Mountain Neck” of 250 acres, which was to be inherited by son Thomas upon her death; also “The Addition,” of 22 acres.
To son Thomas in addition to the parental plantation he was devised “Heath” of 220 acres in the Patapsco where he was then seated, “Wheatley Neck” of 100 acres, and £75 to be invested in land.
To son John the plantation on the north side of the Severn where he was then seated, “Swan Neck” near the Severn, “Horners” of 100 acres bought of Thomas Reynolds, “The Adventure” of 50 acres and “Forked Neck” of 50 acres.
To son William the plantation on which he then dwelt, presumably a portion of “Swan Neck,” “Strawberry Plain,” of 100 acres, “The Addition” of 50 acres, and “Brushy Neck” of 50 acres.
To son Charles “Flushing” of 100 acres, “Deep Creek Poynt” of 50 acres, “Rich Neck” and 284 acres at the Patuxent, and “Hammond’s Forest” of 362 acres.
To his three sons John, William and Charles he devised all houses, lots and the like in Annapolis Town.
To St. Anne’s Church £10.
Executors—his four named sons.
His original will with his signature is extant and was probably written by John Brice. There are three blotches of red wax, one beside his signature, but none can be detected as armorial impressions.
The inventory and appraisement of his personal estate occurred on December 11, 1707, and were approved by his widow, Mary X Hammond, and the two sons, Thomas Hammond and Charles Hammond, both of whom signed their names. The inventory showed a plantation at Flussing, at Seeses Quarters, and “at John Hammond.”
Among the items were one silver hilt sword and belt valued at £2, one silver headed cane, silver tankard and silver plate, 12 long back leather chairs, six guns, dictionary and law books, 22 negro slaves, one old boat 14 feet long, one boat 17 feet well rigged, two canoes, and one gallon of rum. The entire personal estate was appraised at £1,002/11/6.
At an account filed on April 2, 1708, by John Hammond and Charles Hammond, the value of the personal estate had increased to £1,839/18/2. Dr. John Rattenberry who attended the deceased in his last illness received £16/5/—, and £35 were earmarked for funeral charges. In all respects it must have been an elaborate affair, presumably a State funeral to have cost that amount. In that day it was always customary to serve “strong liquid refreshments” at an interment. An account filed on August 8, 1710, by all four sons, showed a legacy of £11 to St. Anne’s Parish.
His widow, Mary Hammond, survived him by many years, dying in 1721. Her will, dated April 4, 1721, was probated two days later. The witnesses were John Unett, William Anglin and Anne Selby, whereas Moses Maccubin and Cornelius Howard were present at the probate. Her only heirs were her grandchildren, identified as the children of her Roper daughter who married Cornelius Howard, son of Captain Cornelius Howard.
To grandsons John, Thomas and Cornelius Howard personalty.
To granddaughters Sarah Howard and Elinor Howard
personalty.
Residue of estate to grandchildren—Thomas, Sarah and Elinor Howard.
Executor—John Beale and he to be guardian of grandson John Howard and to see that he received a good education.
The administration bond was dated April 21, 1721, with Stephen Warman and Vachel Denton as the sureties for John Beale, Esq. Mordecai Hammond and Joshua George witnessed the instrument. No inventory has been found and no administration accounts.
Here lieth interred the body of Major General John Hammond who departed this life the 24 day of November 1707 in the sixty fourth year of his age.
**From Linda who left flowers for Maj General: St. Anne's records upon his death, in 1707, reads: "Hon. John Hammond, Esq., Major-General of the Western Shore of Maryland, one of her majesty's most honorable Council and Judge of the High Court of Admiralty in the Province of Maryland, was buried the 29th of November 1707." Thank you Linda.
**From James and Sharon Cissell who sent the following email: Birth 5 Dec 1643 • England. Find A Grave says he was mother was Ann Hall but that was his mother-in-law. Thank you James and Sharon
From the genealogy of Laura Hammond, Atlanta, Fulton County, Georgia; daughter of Hon Job Hammond - 1945:
Laura Hammond notes: For a record of Maj. Gen. John Hammond's sons, see Warfield's History of Anne Arundel & Howard Counties, p. 178-184. See also Ancestral Records and Portraits, vol. I, pp. 151-254, 508-509, 629-630.
Laura Hammond devoted a whole page to Maj. Gen. John Hammond. The copy of the text was cut off on the right-hand margin, thus where parts were missing, '---'as inserted:
"The Hammonds appear in Virginia with the first of the puritan Colony. ----- then went from Virginia to Maryland. "This ancient and knightly family" Mark N---- were greatly divided in their religious and political opinions." Major General John Hammond, who held office in Maryland under Queen Anne, was n------ descended from a Royalist, while we find the name frequently connected to the Crommwelles in England as well as in America." John Hammond, the son of Robert Hammond, court physician to King James I, was in the Isle of Wright, Virginia --- went from there to Maryland. He wrote "Leade Rachel" (could be Leahe Rachel), the first account of the ---- colonyes. He (this John Hammond) came to Virginia in 1634. Fr. then he went to Maryland where he lived for 18 or 19 years, before he returned to England. He was not, however, as --- appears, the founder of the family of the Hammonds who sprang from Maryland. "John of the Severn" (1653-1707) was their ancestor.
The Next immigrant in Anne Arundel County was John Hammond -----. His estates joined the Howards, and he was brother-in-law of them as he married Mary Howard, daughter of Matthew Howard, and sister of Cornelius Howard I. His mother was Ann Hall. In 1689 he was a member of the Provencial Court of Anne Arundel, and one of "the Quorum". In 1692 he was a deligate to --- Lower House with Col. H. Ridgley and Hon. J. Dorsey. Still later he w---- by the royal administration with who he was in favor, Judge of ---- Court of Admiralty. A concise history of his career is recorded in the annals of St. Anne Church, Annapolis as an obituary notice. He was one of the vestry at the time of his death, and an ardent member of the Church of England. He gave, in 1695m a ---- a church site upon "Severn Heights" to his 'friends, members of the Westminister ------- The only consideration was, "the love he bore his neighbors." He acquired a large estate in both the city of Annapolis, and upon the Severn. He was considered a leading member of the county. It has frequently been written that his English progenitors were ---- eminence in both medicine and politics. St. Anne's records upon his death, in St. Anne Church reads: "Hon. John Hammond, Esq., Maj. Gen. of the Western shore of Maryland, One of her Majesty's most honorable council and Judge of the High Court of Admir---- the Province of Maryland, was buried the 29th of Nov. 1707. In St. Anne's grounds ---- tombstone now rests. Long after all vestiges of his old homestead upon the Severn --- disappeared, this memorial was found and removed to the church grounds of his --- St. Anne's Church has also a well preserved Bible, purchased by the vestry from a le---- of 10f left by him to the church. General Hammond was one of the Commissioners --- to lay out lots and organize the town of Annapolis. General Hammond's wi---- "I leave my home plantation to my wife, Mary (Howard) Hammond, My eldest son, Thomas --- plantation called "Mt. Airy Neck". to my son John, the plantation where he lives, a ---- "Swan Neck"; to my son William, the other part. Son Charles Flushing, "Deer Creek ---"Rich Neck" and "Hammond's Forest:. To my first three sons, my houses and ---- Annapolis. My four sons to be my executors."
Wife: Mary Howard, died 1721. Children: Mary, Thomas, John, William, Charles.
Maj General John Hammond and his wife Mary Howard Hammond were my 8th great grandparents. Ruth Davis Root∼MAJOR GENERALL OF YE WESTERN SHORE
His obituary from St. Anne's Parish:
November 29, 1707: Then was Buried by the Reverend Mr. James Wolton Rector of St. Ann's Parish The Honorable John Hammond, Esq., Major Genll of the Western Shore of This Her Majesty's Province of Maryland, and one of Her Majesty's Most Honorable Councell, and Judge of the High Court of Admiralty in the said Province.
The following is from Harry Wright Newman’s Anne Arundel Gentry: Volume One, pages 190-5:
MAJOR GENERAL JOHN HAMMOND, ESQ.
(1643 — 1707)
The refusal of John Hammond, son of Thomas, to bear arms in 1662, because of religious convictions and before his death attaining the highest military grade known under Provincial years is one of the paradoxes which is found in human nature or family history. He was definitely a member of the Quaker Church, as ample proof exists to dispute any arguments to the contrary. The Quakers with their peculiar and arbitrary beliefs would not fight, yet at the same time they did not reject their protection and benefits which the Loyalists offered them. The year of his conviction was 1662, when Charles, 3d Baron of Baltimore, reigned as Lord Proprietary and ruled as Governor of the Province concurrently. Extant records do not indicate that he participated in the Fendell Rebellion in 1659-60. Circumstances are such that he and his father had not arrived in the Province. After his condemnation as a Quaker he was convinced of the virtues and benefits in the ancient faith of the English Church, became a vestryman of the court church in Annapolis and presented St. Anne’s Parish with a Bible upon his death.
Inasmuch as his birth occurred in or about 1643, there are reasons to believe that it occurred in England. Until 1683 he professed the Dogma of the Quakers, and it was perhaps that year that he quarreled with the brethren.
At a Man’s Meeting at Thomas Hooker’s on November 2, 1680, the following appears within the minutes of the Meeting (The microfilm copy of the minutes at the Maryland State Archives is extremely difficult to read, with many words indecipherable):
“Thomas Hooker and Tho Lyncicum Returns an Answer to the Meeting that they according to the last men’s Meeting Ordered & delivered the answer to Henry Perpoint’s pamphet & it was Read in a Publique meeting of their by his Consent. It is agreed upon the meeting Richd Hall, Tho: Hooker, Francis Billingsley, Richard Johns, Nathan Smith and Jno Hammon Doe meet the next second day come week at the meeting house at Herring Creek about the tenth houre to heare Debate & determine the Matter of differences that Jno Tyman and Richard Session has against William Richardson.”
The following minutes from the the “Half Years Meeting at the House of John Edmondson the 9th day of the 8th month 1683” indicate that condemnation proceedings for some reason were issued against John Hammond:
“Several papers of condemnation being drawn by friends of the Western Shore against Edward Lawson, John Waggstaff and John Hamon and the rest of the Separate meeting at John Lymons for friends of this meeting to signify their unity in answer thereto this meeting being fully Satisfied that friends of the Western Shore have . . . with them according to the good end of truth do unamosly signify their unity with friends in giving forth the said papers of condemnation.”
In 1685 two years after his condemnation he received his first public office of trust, then being fully 42 years of age. The Province was still under the government of the Calverts, yet the Liberals were becoming strongly entrenched politically, so it cannot be assumed that the honour emulated from Lord Baltimore. In politics he was anti-Proprietary, so his greatest achievements occurred when Maryland was directly under the Crown, and no planter had any greater honours.
It has been said that John Hammond was twice married. Circumstances now bear out that fact. The name of his first wife and certainly the mother of his children is said to be Mary, the daughter of Matthew Howard Sr. If such be the case, then she died by 1678.
Thomas Roper, a planter of Anne Arundel, died testate. His last will and testament was probated on November 13, 1677, having been written only a few weeks previously. He made his wife, Mary, the sole executrix of his estate and devised her one-half of the unnamed dwelling-plantation. To his only child, Mary, he devised “Roper’s Increase,” of 300 acres, in Baltimore County, and one-half of the dwelling-plantation at majority. William Mitchell and Dr. William Jones were appointed the overseers.
By November 1, 1678, John Hammond had married the Widow Roper and Dr. William Jones, one of the overseers, was deceased. On that date William Mitchell petitioned Philip Calvert, Esq., Chief Judge of Probate, that he was “appointed overseer of the last will and testament of Thomas Roper, late of Anne Arundel County, deceased, and in his will Requesting them [he and Jones] in case his Wife should marry to secure his Child’s Estate ye said Widow is since Maryed to John Hammond of ye Sd County Who is likely to Imbezzell ye sd Estate and therefore humby craves Citation to Mary Hammond ye Relict of ye sd Thomas Roper to Render Acct to Acct before your Hon of ye sd Thomas Roper Estate that ye orphant’s share may be by ye County Court secured.”
It is therefore evident that John Hammond married the widow sometime after November 13, 1677 and before November 1, 1678. If the Widow Roper were his wife at the time of his death in 1707, therefore, a married life of approximately 29 years occurred. But John Hammond had married sons as early as 1690, within 13 years after his marriage to the widow, so there is definite evidence that John Hammond was previously married and that the Widow Roper could not possibly be the mother of his four sons.
Children of John Hammond
1. Thomas Hammond, married Widow Lightfoot and Mary Heath.
2. John Hammond, married Ann Greenberry.
3. William Hammond, married Elizabeth Cockey.
4. Charles Hammond, married Hannah Howard.
The burning of the Court House in Annapolis destroyed many early land conveyances, but afterwards many planters brought their original deeds to be recorded for posterity. In this manner we find that John Hammond was buying land as early as June 21, 1670. On that day he purchased from John Anniss and Francies Smith a tract of land of 50 acres on the north side of the Severn adjoining land of Nicholas Wyatt which Anniss and Smith had bought of William Frissell granted to him on September 22, 1683, under the name of “Adventure.” On June 14, 1691, John Hammond Sr. and Mary his wife deeded to Henry Ridgely for divers good causes and considerations this tract known as “Adventure.” John Hammond signed the deed, while his wife made her X mark.
On April 2, 1702, styled John Hammond, Gent., he purchased from Samuel Norwood, of Anne Arundel, Gent., for £110 “Strawberry Plaine,” of 100 acres, on the north side of the Severn between the land formerly laid out for Edward Lloyd called “Swan Neck” on a branch of Forked Creek. Samuel Norwood signed the deed of conveyance. On February 25, 1702/3, as Col. John Hammond, Gent., he bought of Thomas Reynolds, Gent., for £90 land on the south side of Christopher Hall’s plantation in Swan Neck of 100 acres as conveyed to Edward Lloyd, late of the Severn, Gent., to Richard Horner, with improvements. Sarah Reynolds waived all dower rights before Charles Hammond, Justice of the Peace.
Few men in the colonial period of the American Colonies served in more official capacities than John Hammond. His first office of note was when he was placed on the commission in 1684 to lay out the town of Annapolis. This was followed the next year, when, on December 9, 1685, he was appointed a Justice of the Peace for Anne Arundel and made a member of the Quorum.
By 1691 when the liberal elements were well entrenched in the Province he was styled Captain John Hammond and it was the year that he returned to England. The reason for his trip to England is unknown. Often the planters returned to settle their inherited estates, while others returned for political reasons. Few returned for pleasure. Those who went back for sentiment usually remained. He was back in Maryland the next year, for as Captain John Hammond, he was recommissioned Justice of the Peace. By 1694 he had been advanced to Major and was appointed justice of the Provincial Court as a member of the Quorum. In 1699 he was an Associate Justice of the Court of Chancery and on October 14, 1702, as Colonel John Hammond he subscribed to the Oath as Justice of the Vice Admiralty Court. In 1698 he was among the commissioners appointed to settle the boundary between Anne Arundel and Baltimore Counties.
It is concluded from a study of his public career that he rose steadily from Captain of a “Troop of Horse” in 1694, that is, the cavalry, the most romantic branch of the service in that day, to Major General. With his genius for the military, it is still an unsolved reason why his name was missing among the youths and men of Anne Arundel County who fought in the Nanticoke Indian War on the Eastern Shore and who received compensation for their services in 1678. It is evident that at that time he was still a member of the Quaker faith and therefore had reserve against fighting the Indians.
On October 4, 1699, as Lieutenant Colonel, he was advanced to a colonelcy to command all the military forces in Anne Arundel County, and on July 17, 1707, Governor Seymour, the Royal Governor, commissioned him Major General to command all military units on the Western Shore. At that time he was fully sixty-four years of age, but certainly still active and virile.
“Commissioned Major General of all and Singular Forces belonging to the Militia within the six companies of the Western Shore in this Her Majesty’s Province, both of Horse and Foot Commanding and Requiring the several Colonels and Commanders and other Subalterne Officers, Soldiers and Troopers of the said Militia to be in all Respects Obedient to your commands.”
All during his activity in the defense of the Province and his presiding on the bench in several courts of justice, he served from 1692 to 1698 as a delegate to the Lower House of the Assembly. He was then elevated to the Council by the Governor and he presumably attended his first session as Major John Hammond on June 4, 1698. He served continuously until the time of his death.
The following obituary appears among the archives of St. Anne’s Parish:
“November 29, 1707: Then was Buried by the Reverend Mr. James Wolton Rector of St. Ann’s Parish The Honorable John Hammond, Esq., Major Genll of the Western Shore of This Her Majesty’s Province of Maryland, and one of Her Majesty’s Most Honorable Councell, and Judge of the High Court of Admiralty in the said Province.”
He was buried on his plantation, but later his grave-stone was placed in the church yard of St. Anne’s in Annapolis. The inscription reads: “Here lieth the body of Major General John Hammond who departed this life the twenty-fourth day of November 1707 in the sixty-fourth year of his age.”
His last will and testament was drawn up on November 11, 1707, in the presence of John Brice, Henry Pinkney and Elizabeth Abrahams. It was probated in Anne Arundel County, on December 4, following.
To his wife Mary he devised the dwelling-plantation “Mountain Neck” of 250 acres, which was to be inherited by son Thomas upon her death; also “The Addition,” of 22 acres.
To son Thomas in addition to the parental plantation he was devised “Heath” of 220 acres in the Patapsco where he was then seated, “Wheatley Neck” of 100 acres, and £75 to be invested in land.
To son John the plantation on the north side of the Severn where he was then seated, “Swan Neck” near the Severn, “Horners” of 100 acres bought of Thomas Reynolds, “The Adventure” of 50 acres and “Forked Neck” of 50 acres.
To son William the plantation on which he then dwelt, presumably a portion of “Swan Neck,” “Strawberry Plain,” of 100 acres, “The Addition” of 50 acres, and “Brushy Neck” of 50 acres.
To son Charles “Flushing” of 100 acres, “Deep Creek Poynt” of 50 acres, “Rich Neck” and 284 acres at the Patuxent, and “Hammond’s Forest” of 362 acres.
To his three sons John, William and Charles he devised all houses, lots and the like in Annapolis Town.
To St. Anne’s Church £10.
Executors—his four named sons.
His original will with his signature is extant and was probably written by John Brice. There are three blotches of red wax, one beside his signature, but none can be detected as armorial impressions.
The inventory and appraisement of his personal estate occurred on December 11, 1707, and were approved by his widow, Mary X Hammond, and the two sons, Thomas Hammond and Charles Hammond, both of whom signed their names. The inventory showed a plantation at Flussing, at Seeses Quarters, and “at John Hammond.”
Among the items were one silver hilt sword and belt valued at £2, one silver headed cane, silver tankard and silver plate, 12 long back leather chairs, six guns, dictionary and law books, 22 negro slaves, one old boat 14 feet long, one boat 17 feet well rigged, two canoes, and one gallon of rum. The entire personal estate was appraised at £1,002/11/6.
At an account filed on April 2, 1708, by John Hammond and Charles Hammond, the value of the personal estate had increased to £1,839/18/2. Dr. John Rattenberry who attended the deceased in his last illness received £16/5/—, and £35 were earmarked for funeral charges. In all respects it must have been an elaborate affair, presumably a State funeral to have cost that amount. In that day it was always customary to serve “strong liquid refreshments” at an interment. An account filed on August 8, 1710, by all four sons, showed a legacy of £11 to St. Anne’s Parish.
His widow, Mary Hammond, survived him by many years, dying in 1721. Her will, dated April 4, 1721, was probated two days later. The witnesses were John Unett, William Anglin and Anne Selby, whereas Moses Maccubin and Cornelius Howard were present at the probate. Her only heirs were her grandchildren, identified as the children of her Roper daughter who married Cornelius Howard, son of Captain Cornelius Howard.
To grandsons John, Thomas and Cornelius Howard personalty.
To granddaughters Sarah Howard and Elinor Howard
personalty.
Residue of estate to grandchildren—Thomas, Sarah and Elinor Howard.
Executor—John Beale and he to be guardian of grandson John Howard and to see that he received a good education.
The administration bond was dated April 21, 1721, with Stephen Warman and Vachel Denton as the sureties for John Beale, Esq. Mordecai Hammond and Joshua George witnessed the instrument. No inventory has been found and no administration accounts.
Gravesite Details
This is for his actual burial. The one at St. Anne's in Church Circle is a cenotaph.
