A prominent character in early American history and genealogy, Mercy Winsor was born around 1640 in Providence, Rhode Island. As the daughter of Rhode Island founder Roger Williams, her life and family embody colonial America. Mercy Winsor’s family ties and contributions are examined in this essay.
Early Life and Background
Born July 15, 1640, Mercy Williams became Mercy Winsor. The youngest daughter of Roger and Mary Williams. Her legacy is shaped by her family’s early Rhode Island prominence and historical links.
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| July 15, 1640 | Birth of Mercy Winsor in Providence, RI |
| 1659-1660 | Married Resolved Waterman |
| 1670 | Widowed after the death of Resolved Waterman |
| September 19, 1705 | Death of Mercy Winsor |
Marriage and Offspring
In 1659 or 1660, Mercy Winsor married Resolved Waterman and had several children. After Resolved’s death, she married Rev. Samuel Winsor, tying her family to notable local individuals.
| Spouse | Marriage Year | Children |
|---|---|---|
| Resolved Waterman | 1659-1660 | Richard, John, Resolved, Mary, Waite Waterman |
| Rev. Samuel Winsor | After 1670 | Rev. Samuel Winsor II, Rev. Joshua Winsor, Hannah Angell, Waite Rhodes |
Family Lineage Connections
The Winsor family helped Rhode Island expand and thrive during its early settlement. Mercy’s marriage and Roger Williams connection heighten her local relevance.
| Family Member | Relationship | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Roger Williams | Father | Founder of Rhode Island |
| Mary Williams | Mother | Wife of Roger Williams |
| Resolved Waterman | First Husband | Father of five children |
| Rev. Samuel Winsor | Second Husband | A prominent clergyman in the community |
| Rev. Samuel Winsor II | Son | Known for his own contributions |
| Rev. Joshua Winsor | Son | Followed in the family tradition of ministry |
| Hannah Angell | Daughter | Married into another influential family |
| Waite Rhodes | Daughter | Continued the family legacy |
Life in Colonial Rhode Island
Mercy lived during Rhode Island’s colonial period. Her family was involved in early government and communal affairs, reflecting the times’ hardships and successes.
| Time Period | Key Events | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| 1640-1705 | Colonial governance developments | Influenced local civic structures |
| 1670-1705 | Growth of religious communities | Helped establish local faith traditions |
| 1700s | Expansion of Rhode Island | Contributed to early American expansion |
Legacy and Descendants
Several Mercy Winsor descendants influenced American society. Her family has contributed to American history through important generations.
| Descendant | Relationship | Significance |
|---|---|---|
| Rev. Samuel Winsor II | Grandson | Continued the family’s religious legacy |
| Rev. Joshua Winsor | Grandson | Contributed to local governance and faith |
| Waite Rhodes | Granddaughter | Married into the Rhodes family, notable in Rhode Island |
| Major John Angell | Grandson | Military and civic leadership |
Influence of Mercy Winsor
Mercy Winsor’s effect goes beyond family. Her marriages and children shaped early Rhode Island society and administration.
| Influence Factor | Description |
|---|---|
| Community Engagement | Actively participated in early Rhode Island affairs |
| Family Alliances | Strengthened ties with other prominent families |
| Cultural Contributions | Added to the rich tapestry of Rhode Island’s history |
FAQ
Why was Mercy Winsor important in early American history?
As Roger Williams’ daughter, Mercy Winsor helped manage and develop Rhode Island through familial relationships.
Mercy Winsor’s wives and kids?
Following her marriages to Resolved Waterman and Rev. Samuel Winsor, Mercy Winsor had multiple offspring and continued her family’s heritage in the region.
How did Mercy Winsor’s family affect Rhode Island?
Mercy Winsor’s family helped shape early American civilization by establishing local governance, religion traditions, and connections with other families.
What about Mercy Winsor’s descendants?
Mercy Winsor’s descendants included church and community leaders who shaped Rhode Island’s growth, extending her influence in American history.
