Founders of Early American Families Emigrants from Europe 1607 - 1657

Founders of Early American Families Emigrants from Europe 1607 - 1657 by Colket, Meredith B. , Jr.. hardcover edition. ISBN: 9789996624346.

Excerpt from the Introduction: During the first half century of colonization following the English settlement at Jamestown in 1607, many colonists came from Europe who, with their descendants, played a remarkable part in the development and growth of America. In one sense, the first half century represents a distinct period, for its end almost synchronizes with the restoration in 1660 of the Stuart monarchy and the beginning of new colonial policies. It is noteworthy that the settlers who came to New England in this period were almost entirely the forebears of the residents of New England at the time the Federal government was established. Careful research has identified more than 3,500 colonists who came over within the specified period and left descendants in the male line. If we allow five person to each household, these persons represent some 17,500 persons including wives and children. This figure is a fraction of the entire population estimated at 51,700 in 1650. Many persons, of course, did not establish families here, at least in the male line. A considerable number returned to Europe. Yet it is obvious that there are many more persons whose male line descendants have not been determined.