George Cooper
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George Jefferds Cooper (abt. 1817 - 1890)

George Jefferds Cooper
Born about [location unknown]
Ancestors ancestors
Husband of — married after 29 Apr 1849 in Kennebunkport, Maine, USAmap
Descendants descendants
Father of
Died at about age 73 in Sailor's Snug Harbor, Statin Island, New York, USAmap
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Biography

The name George Jefferds has been passed down in the Cooper family for several generations. So, who was George Jefferds? He was the son of Major William Jefferds and Olive Gillpatrick (who was a cousin to Olive Goodwin). He was born in 1789 and married Nancy Morrison in 1820. George died in 1823 without any children. Nancy remarried George Perkins. Maj. Jefferds moved to Kennebunk about 1777 and opened a public house (which was later known as the Mousam House). His son George took over the Jefferds Tavern in 1814 and was also the proprietor of a store.[1]

“I Moses F. Thompson of Kennebunk port… in consideration of the sum of twelve dollars to me paid by Joseph Garland… do… sell…land lying in said Kennebunk port containing about one fourth part of an acre… beginning at the southmost corner of Samuel Gillpatrick land thence… by land of the widow Marthy Davis… to the mill yard bounds thence… to the town road heading from Kennebunk landing to the port road thence… to Oliver Goodwins fence… this eighteenth day of September… one thousand eight hundred and forty one.
Moses F. Thompson”[2]

Deed from Thompson to Garland- 18 Sept 1841

Also on 18 Sept. 1841 George J. Cooper of Kennebunkport, mariner, purchased from Joseph Garland of Kennebunkport for $75.00 the above mentioned 1/4 acre and one-half the house next to Oliver Goodwin's land. The deed was signed by Joseph and Abigail Garland.[3]

George purchased the 1/4 acre next to Oliver Goodwin's land again from Joseph Garland for $100.00 on 22 Sept. 1843.[4]

“I Joseph Garland of Kennebunk port… yeoman in consideration of one hundred dollars paid by George J. Cooper of said Kennebunk port Mariner… sell… a small lot of land situated in said Kennebunk port containing about one fourth part of an acre of land bounded thus- Beginning at the south west corner of Samuel Gillpatricks land, then running South Easterly by land of the Widow Martha Davis… to the Mill bound, then by the mill yard… to the Town road leading from Kennebunk landing to the post road, then by the Town road… to Oliver Goodwins fence as it now stands, then by said fence to the first mentioned bounds, it being the same land which I bought of Moses F Thompson as will appear on his deed to me- dated the eighteenth day of September 1841… Book 174… pages 94 & 95… this twenty second day of September… one thousand eight hundred and forty three…
Joseph Garland
Abigail Garland
In presence of us,
Timo. Frost
O. S. Nason”[5]

Deed from Garland to Cooper- 22 Sept 1843

George purchased 1 acre and 85 1/2 rods next to his lot from Martha Davis of Kennebunkport, widow of Benjamin Davis, son of Nathaniel Davis, and Sarah Davis, of Kennebunkport, singlewoman for $38.36 on 15 Apr. 1845. The deed was signed by Martha and Sarah Davis.[6]

“I Martha Davis of Kennebunk port Widow & Sarah Davis of said Kennebunk port Single woman… in consideration of thirty eight dollars & thirty six cents paid by George J. Cooper of said Kennebunk port Mariner… do… sell… a lot of land situated in said Kennebunk port & bounded thus. Beginning at the Westerly corner of said George’s land adjoining Oliver Goodwins land, then running south… to Enoch Hardys land… by the bank of the river at high water mark to said Goodwins land… containing one acre & eighty five & half rods… reserving the house standing on the above said premises to ourselves which we do not convey to the said George the above lot of land is the same which Benjamin Davis, deceased late husband of said Martha, owned & possessed, from his Father Nathaniel Davis deceased… this Fifteenth day of April… one thousand eight hundred and forty five
Martha X Davis
mark

O.S. Nason
Timo Frost”[7]

Deed from Davis to Cooper- 15 Apr 1845

“Memorandum of an agreement made & concluded this fifteenth day of April A.D. 1845 by and between George J. Cooper of Kennebunk port of the one part and Martha Davis of said Kennebunk port Widow of the other part…. George J. Cooper on his part doth hereby lease and to farm let unto the said Martha Davis during her natural life, the following lot of land situated in said Kennebunk port whereon her house now stands, bounded thus, Beginning at a stake & stone in a line with Enoch Hardys land by the fence & running SW… by said Hardys land… then by said Coopers land… then by said Coopers land… by said Coopers land to the first beginning.

And the said Martha Davis on her part doth covenant & agree to pay the said George J. Cooper twenty five cents per annum for the use & improvement of the above lot of land during her natural life, & at her decease the said land to revert to the said George his heirs & assigns…
George J. Cooper
Martha X Davis
mark

In presence of
O.S. Nason
Timo. Frost”[8]

Agreement Between George J. Cooper and Martha Davis- 15 Apr 1845

On 10 May 1845 Oliver Goodwin of Kennebunkport sold to George 63 rods next to Oliver's lot for $10.00. This deed was signed by Oliver and Betsy Goodwin.[9]

“I Oliver Goodwin of Kennebunk Port… in consideration of ten dollars paid by George J. Cooper of said Kennebunk Port, mariner… a small lot of land situated in said Kennebunkport… beginning at the Westerly corner of Oliver Nason’s land by the road leading by John Garland’s house to the port thence… by said Goodwins land… to a stake by said Oliver Nason’s fence… containing about sixty three rods… this tenth day of May… one thousand eight hundred and forty five…
Oliver Goodwin, Betsey Goodwin”.[10]

Plan of George's Land- 6 Oct 1848

George evidently lived for a time in Portsmouth and had his property (not sure if it was his boat or his home) insured by the Portsmouth Mutual Fire Insurance Company.[11] George’s uncle John lived in New Castle and was a clerk at the pension office as well as having a fish business there.

Receipt from the Portsmouth Mutual Fire Insurance Company- 1847

Thomas C. Worth, George J. Cooper and Oliver Goodwin of Kennebunkport sold for $16.00 to Joseph Garland of Kennebunkport land next to George's land 3 July 1849. This deed was signed by Thomas C. and Olive Worth, George J. and Olive Cooper, and Oliver and Betsy Goodwin..[12]

Also among the papers is a small notebook which was used as a ledger. Unfortunately, much of it is not readable:

“Nov 17/52 Wm Wildes agree to dig for DW Lord six Bbls clam bait at $3,50 pr Bbl to be Ready for market the first of Aprile in good order

Nov 19/52 Richard Thompson agrees to dig eight Bbls bait at $3,50 pr Bbl Bbl & salt to be found

Jacob Hutchins agrees to dig 5 bbls bait at $3,50 Salt- & bbl to be found

Nov 26/52 6 Bbl bait
Wm Woolner agrees to dig four bbls bait at $3,50 Salt & bbl to be found
Isaac Wildes [ ]

May 16 James Huff by 2 bbls clam bait pd 8
“ 16 Thatcher Hutchins by 1 Bbl clam bait bd 4…

Boat Brandywine & owns [ ]
June 11 To 5 gall molass 1 90
“ “ “ 14 ½ # pork 1 60
“ “ “ 1 # tea 30
“ “ “ 29 # bread 2 03
“ 23 “ 18 ½ # pork 2 04
“ “ “ 1 # coffee 12
“ 30 “ 32 # bread 2 21
“ “ “ 1 # tea 30…

Monday July 5 - 4 ½ hours mowing @ 50cts per
hour..........................................................................2 25
6 - 1 ½ hours rakeing a 30 cts per hour....................45
7 - 3 hours 5 min mowing in forenoon ¾ hour
spreading afternoon 1 hour mowing 3 ½ hours
rakeing Jerry 3 hours
8 - 3 ¼ hours mowing 3 hours rakeing 3 ¾ hours
alone Jerry 4 hours
9 - 3 hours hauling in, Jerry 4 ½
10 - 2 ¾ mowing
12 - 2 ½ hauling…

Came to board with Mrs Remick Monday at supper April the 10, 1871 at $4 00 per week left the 14 at night…” [13]

“Dear Peggy,
Back in the days of the California Gold Rush- a Cooper with a fine sense of adventure made his way to the gold fields in search of a fortune.

As my Dad [John Cooper] told it, I can’t remember how many “greats” should go before grandfather. Whatever- he never struck it rich, but did come away with a gold nugget.

On the way home- in New Orleans he became deathly ill- smallpox or some such nasty bug. The Sisters of Charity took him in – nursed him back to health. He was so impressed, he converted, and became a Catholic.

Once home, he had the nugget made into the present anchor pin- to be passed on down the line as later Coopers came along… my Dad and I shared a deep love for the sea, and my sense of the matter is it should go to one of your boys who will be following the sea.

Dad and Aunt Kate made quite a lovely ceremony of it, when they passed it on to me. It is the family heirloom, to be cherished, then in turn passed on.

Since I don’t see us meeting anytime in the near future, and since I have no faith in the postal service, I have decided to entrust it to Mary Cole, my cousin, and Ruth Smith’s sister.

They (the Coles) are in Florida now, and will be here at the house on 12 April, which will be my 61st birthday. So- on my natal day, I shall start it on the journey to you. From Mary to Ruth to you.

Sadly, no ceremony, but I trust you will get a feeling of the love and best wishes I have tucked into the box, and will maybe sense my Dad and Aunt Kate close by- the first time you hold it in your hand.

I’m proud to have added my 21 years in the Navy to the story.

Love,
Virginia”

Virginia Cooper was a Navy nurse and the daughter of John and Agnes Cooper, John being George Cooper III’s brother. Fortunately, George saved all sorts of receipts, including his tax receipts.

George's Tax Receipts from 1852 to 1857

If you notice the second receipt for his poll tax from 1854 is from Mariposa County, California. We know George was in Maine in 1852 and had returned by Sept. 1853. He must have figured he would be back in California as he paid his poll tax for 1854. Looks like he stayed in California just long enough to find the gold nugget.

George J. Cooper's Anchor Pin

“G. Cooper returned- Sept. 16th (1853)
Mr. George Cooper of K-port who went to California about two years since, arrived at home to day. I do not know how well he has succeeded.”[14]

Entry in Andrew Walker's Diary

George kept a ship's log listing where and when he was fishing. Two of his books survive, one from 1855 and the other from 1859 giving details of his travels on his schooner Brandywine to Boon Island, Wood's Island, Monhegan, Matinicus, and elsewhere.

Kennebunk Sept. 30, 1857
“Capt. Cooper,

Dear Sir
Since I left you I have not heard any thing from you but once. So I presume you have not sold the schooner, and if there is no prospect of selling her I think that you had better sayl her on for Kennebunk & git what freight you can and bring her home as she would lay here at less Expense then there [?Portsmouth]; and if you want me to send any one up to help bring her down I will do so,- you know what passed between us before you left. You asked me to take back something that I said and I did so and I told you than and also in Boston that I would have confidence in you, but if reports are truer I fear that you will make me loose that confidence for Heavens sake have you lost all controal of your self,, is it possible that you are capable of forfilling your word of Honer and persist in ruining your self and all that is dear to you don’t think that I want to hurt your feelings I am a friend to you and God knows my heart; I wish you well, but I must be plain, unless you dash the cup from your lips and come to a determined Resalution never to taste another drop of intoxicating Liquer again you are irreconvertably lost & ruined forever, and only reflect you are not only ruining your self but your poor wife & child and all your connections will suffer with your self if you value their peace of mind as well as your own I am sure that you will refrain if you would reflect on it and see the joy that it would give to your connections and peace of mind to your self, I am sure your resolution would be formed ameadenly, it is a poor way to drown trouble, much better is a cool head to give fortitude and drive away remorse I hope you will forgive me for presuming, but my intentions is good, and I wish you well May God give you streangth of mind and a good resolution, your friends are well I saw your wifes father yesterday at the Port. Brooks has been in two or three times Since you left. I have not seen him nor don’t know how he has done, the new ship sails tomorrow, please write me at the Recpt of this and tell me what the prospect is and if you want me to come up, I will do so if you should sell her I think you had better place the money in Hearbby Lords hands subject to the ordr of the owners and then it will be safe and we can draw on him for it when we want it, hoping soon to here from you
I remain yours in friendship
J. Blaisdell”

Letter from J. Blaisdell- 30 Sept 1857

Mr. Blaisdell must have been a good friend to lay it out like that. He obviously meant a lot to George as he saved the letter. One has to hope that his friend’s words motivated George to give up the “demon rum”. Perhaps he would read this letter in the future when and if, he fell off the wagon… it would give him the motivation to stay sober.

“I George J. Cooper of Kennebunkport… in consideration of two hundred dollars paid by George Raitt of Kennebunk… do… sell… land situate in said Kennebunkport… lying on the westerly side of the road leading by Durrell’s bridge so called into the road leading from Kennebunk Village to Saco and bounded… by land of Oliver Goodwin.. by the Kennebunk river… by land owned by Horace Porter together with the building thereon being the premises on which I now live… provided… that if the said George J. Cooper… pay… the sum of two hundred dollars in one year from the date hereof and interest… this thirtieth day of June… one thousand eight hundred and fifty seven… Geo. J. Cooper”.[15]

“Bloomfield Ind
Feby 16 1858
Mr. George J Cooper
Kennebunk Maine

Dr Sir
Yours of the 3rd instant come duly to hand in reply I will inform you that I received great pleasure in hearing from you for in leisure moments memory reverts to many persons and incidents connected with that [ ] from California- John Cole is here and doing well, as to my two little boys they are well the largest has been going to school.

The prices of land in this County runs from 5$ to 25$ per acre- Good land in the River bottom which will yield from 50 to 70 bushels of corn pr acre improved is worth $25 pr acre- Improved up land is rated at from 10 to 15$ pr acre, will produce from 35 to 40 bushels of corn pr acre. Prairie land with timber unimproved is worth from 6 to 12$ pr acre, this land some of it is very fertile and requires but little [ ] to fence and break it, the first crop paying for the fencing and breaking. I would like very much if you would come out and see this country. If you come, you can get to Bloomington by Railroad 32 miles from this place and from that point you can come here by stage. If you come out I will take you all over our County so that you can see for your self. Our Village is a small one but I think a pleasant one. If you would prefer to live in town I think that I have a piece of land that would suit you it has not improvement on it but is about half prairie and balance timber the tract contains 400 acres and can be had for ten dollars pr acre ¼ pd down balance in one two three & four years with interest enclosed I send you a draft, The tract marked S Kemp is held by him at $12.50 pr acre which I will purchase of if I do not sell- I am not anxious to sell and would like to have you come out and see for yourself- for I think you would be pleased with the country and you would be likely to find a place that would suit you. I have been offered 8$ pr acre for the tract, I have several [ ] tracts some containing small improvements, but I would not recommend them for productive and valuable places It might be best for you to purchase some small place that is improved containing 160 acres, but it is difficult to get such a place in time. I have been quite successful in business since I saw you I wish you to write me and let me know when you will be out, so that I can be at home Of course you will stay with me when you come, if I am not at home, you can introduce yourself to my father and he will take great pleasure in showing you the Country. The land of which I send you a plat is said by our County surveyor to be the best unimproved tract in the County and has repeatedly wished to exchange his upland farm which is improved acre for acre, but his farm will not produce but from 30 to 40 bu corn pr acre, If you desire to secure a piece you can write to our Treasurer or Co Surveyor or any other officer of our County and you will find the quality of the land. The location is seven miles from this place, not very desirable for a residence but unexceptimable for farming purposes- The soil is several feet deep, and a vegitable loam producing grass higher than [ ] head John Cole has been renting bottom land since his return, has about 3000 bushels of corn to sell, he says that he raised 80 bushels to the acre this year
I am very Resply yours
A.G. Cavins”

Letter from Aden G. Cavins- 16 Feb 1858
Plan of Land in Indiana

Obviously George didn’t take him up on his offer, but, he must have thought it a good idea as he kept the letter all those years! Was the grass really was greener in Indiana? Perhaps George had sold the “Brandywine” and stopped drinking and wanted a new start in life. Aden G. Cavins was a well known lawyer in Bloomfield and served as a colonel of the 97th Indiana Regiment during the Civil War. The history of Greene County states: “Perhaps no man who has ever lived in Greene county was more highly esteemed while living or more sincerely mourned in death than Col. Aden G. Cavins, who was in deed and truth Greene county’s “Grand old man”.[16]

“I George J. Cooper of Kennebunkport… mariner in consideration of two hundred and fifty dollars paid by Enoch Cousens of said Kennebunkport, merchant… do… sell… land and a one story dwelling house, barn and shop thereon standing and being occupied by myself and situate in said Kennebunkport… by the road leading from Nason’s Mills to the port… by a lane belonging to the mill privilege formerly belonging to Enoch Hardy on the west by Kennebunk river, on the north by Oliver Goodwin’s land containing about three and ¾ acres subject to a mortgage of $200 given about the 25th June 1857 to Oliver Raitt… said Cooper… to pay to the said Cousens… two hundred an fifty dollars and interest on the thirty first day of December next… and interest… this twenty fourth day of May… one thousand eight hundred and fifty eight… Olive G. Cooper, George J. Cooper.” [17]

In the 1860 census George J., age 43, mariner, and Olive G. Cooper, age 36, had real estate valued at $600.00 and personal estate of $1,000.00 (probably his fishing gear). George F. is the only other person in the household.[18]

George evidently didn’t pay up his mortgage to Mr. Raitt:

“To the Sheriff… Whereas George Raitt of Eliot… yeoman, executor of the last will and testament of George Raitt, late of said Elliot, yeoman, deceased, before the Justices of our Supreme Judicial Court, holden at Alfred… on the third Tuesday of September, A.D. 1860… recovered judgement for title and possession of… the following… tract of land situate in Kennebunkport… [land described in the above mortgage]… against George J. Cooper of Kennebunk… yeoman, who had unjustly withheld, put out, or removed the said creditor from the possession thereof. We command you, therefore, that without delay you cause the said creditor to have possession of and in the said above described premises… December 13th, 1860. By virtue of the within precept I this day removed the within named George J. Cooper from the within described premises… possession being given to Hiram H. Hobbs as the lawful attorney of the said George Raitt… and I also received from said Cooper the within cost and my fees hereon. L.H. Kimball Deputy Sheriff…” [19]

“Kennebunk feby 5th 1865

To G Cooper
Dr Sir your favour by the hand of mr Downing came safe to hand & I was glad to hear from you & that you was doing so well

I should wrote you before but you wished to know how Johns folks ware giting along. I went to the port Saturday & saw Sarah but mr Peabody was in the woods has been to work there for 10 days & his helth is very good Frank has finished in the sail loft & Lary said he was comeing up to Portsmouth to see if he could git any work to do

I think they are giting along very well for them I did not here any thing from Betsy I did not think to inquire for her

Your friends in this quarter are all as well as usal or about the same as when you was here last There is nothing new stiring here Mrs Goodwin & Aunt Betty was over & spent the week with us last week & appeared to be well

We wish to be rembred to your wife & Georgy when you can make it convenant to come down we shall alwas be glad to see you We should be pleased to see Olive down here

No more at present from yours truly

John Hill

Geo Cooper in act with J Hill to febry 10th 1865

Apl 16th-1864 $45 to febry 1st 1865- 9 ½
months.....................................................................4=28
Apr28 1864 - 50 to july 1st 1865 - 9 m 4 days is..4=54
Augst 28 1864 - 50 to feby 1, 1865 - 5 m..............2=50
$145.........................................................................11 32
You paid as above.......................................145
interest on Do................................................11 32
Jany 28 by the hand of mr Downing.........100
.....................................................................$256 32

Whole amt due me Dec 1st 1863...................$254 03
interest on Do for 14 months.............................17 78
taxes for 1864.........................................................6 56
............................................................................$278 37

Due me as above...............................................278 37
paid to me..........................................................256 32
Due me feby 1st 1865 Balance........................$22 05

Kennebunk febry 5th 1865
This I think you will find right acts
John Hill”

Letter from John Hill- 5 July 1865
George's Account with John Hill

“I William M. Lord of Kennebunk port… in consideration of the sum of One hundred & sixty dolls. To me paid by George J. Cooper of Kittery, formerly of Kennebunkport… land in said Kennebunkport… beginning at the large parcel of land described in the deed of Alm. Lord & Wm L Thompson to Horace Porter dated Nov. 30th 1842 thence… by land formerly owned by David Crediford to the small parcel described in a deed from said Lord & Thompson to said Porter then… to land of John Bartlett… then… by land of Amasa Huff to… said large parcel of Land of said Porter… containing about five acres being the same land I bought of Wm. Mitchell as per his deed to me of Jany. 25th. 1865… this ninth day of September… one thousand eight hundred and sixty five
William M. Lord”[20]

George sold this lot to his son George F. in 1886:

“I George J. Cooper of Kennebunkport… in consideration of Three hundred sixty dollars paid by George F. Cooper of Kennebunkport… do… sell… a certain lot… being the same conveyed to me by William M. Lord by his deed of September 9, A.D. 1865… Book 294 page 123… this twenty second day of December… one thousand eight hundred and eighty six.”[21]

George's Investment in a Clothes Dryer

One has to wonder if George was the victim of a conman, or, did he really own shares in a legitimate invention for drying clothes? If he made a lot of money, none of his descendants have heard about it!

“Lancaster Feb 19th 1866
G.J. Cooper Esq

Dear Sir,
Yours of Jan was duly received, and in answer to your enquiries I would say that S.C. Jones or Stephen Cooper did not leave any Real estate and I do not know as he ever owned any here he rented a house and worked out some, and made Baskets &c Some fifteen years ago the house he lived in was burned and he lost some of his household goods and when he died, they did not have much I think. You can come to Lancaster by the way of Concord, take the first morning train from Ports. to Concord, and you can come to Littleton in the cars and then to Lancaster by stage 21 miles. the same day get here from 9 to 11PM. Or you can come by the way of Portland Me take the first train from Boston to Portland & then take the Grand Trunk Rail Road to Northumberland Depot & then by stage to Lancaster is 12 miles. You can come in one day either way

Respectfully
S.H. Legro”

Letter from S.H. Legro

Was the Stephen Cooper mentioned in this letter George’s father? If so, why did he leave his family in Kennebunkport? A search through the 1850 census shows Stephen J. Cooper, age 60 living in Lancaster with Lucy Cooper, age 58. He was a laborer and both were illiterate. The 1840 census shows a Stephen J. Cooper living in Berlin, NH, age 50 to 60 along with a woman age 50 to 60. No further record of Stephen is found. If his age in the 1850 census was correct that would make him born in 1790… only 17 years old when he was married to Ruth Crediford who was 10 years his senior. This is not an impossibility, however, quite unlikely. But, if this Stephen wasn’t George’s father why would he be so interested in finding out about any estate he may have had and why would he want such detailed information on how to get up to Lancaster? If this Stephen wasn’t his father then how was he connected to the family, if at all? And what about Mr. Legro talking about “S.C. Jones or Stephen Cooper”? Was S.C. Stephen Cooper Jones? Did Stephen travel under an alias for some reason? Or was Stephen Cooper Jones the son of a sister of Stephen Cooper perhaps? Was the Stephen J. Cooper in the census reports Stephen Jones Cooper? The plot thickens! Also, the fact that Stephen Cooper “worked out some, and made Baskets” is interesting. The local native peoples were famous for their baskets and George J. Cooper II always said that he was part Cherokee! The other thought that comes to mind is did George’s father disappear around 1820 and years later George heard of a Stephen Cooper living up in northern New Hampshire and decided to track him down and found out he wasn’t related at all… we may never know.

“We Merill P. Simpson of Kennebunkport… and Oliver S. Nason and George J. Cooper both of said Kennebunkport… stand firmly bound… in the full sum of five hundred Dollars… the fourth day of May… one thousand eight hundred and sixty nine

The Condition of this Obligation is such, That if the above bounden Merrill P. Simpson nominated and allowed to be Guardian unto Julia Frances Allen minor and child of Eli Allen late of Kennebunkport… deceased shall faithfully discharge the trust and office of GUARDIAN unto the said minor…
Merrill S. Simpson
O.S.Nason
Geo. J. Cooper
In presence of
Mahlon Hutchinson
Henry Simpson”

“I John Hill of Kennebunk… in consideration of the sum of two hundred dollars paid by George J. Cooper of Kennebunk port… do… sell… land situated in said Kennebunk port… lying on the Westerly side of the road leading by Durrell’s bridge, so called, into the road leading from Kennebunk village to Saco… on the Easterly side by said first mentioned road, on the North by land of Oliver Goodwin on the west by Kennebunk River and on the South westerly side by land formerly Horace Porter… together with the buildings thereon… given me the said John Hill date Dec 4, 1863 by George Raitt… twenty seventh day of August… one thousand eight hundred and sixty nine.
John Hill Hannah Hill”[22]

Deed from Hill to Cooper- 27 Aug. 1869

George seems to have been very conscientious about keeping his fire insurance up to date and saving all his receipts. I wonder if he had a bad experience with his home or boat burning in the past.

Policy from the Kennebunk Mutual Fire Insurance Company

George J., Olive B. and young George F. were listed in the 1870 census for Kennebunkport as being farmers. Looks like George had given up the life of a sailor by this time. Jane Wolcott, age 88 was also living with them, although her relationship to the family is unknown. [23]

“Kittry Sept 14 1871
This is to cirtify that I have sold one half of the building I bott an the bunk of Theodore Rein & I now occupy as a dweling house with ½ the cooking stove & one half of all other cooking utensils bloning thereunto for the sum of thirty five dollars to George J Cooper of Kennebunk
Rec payment
Chas H. Ramsdell of York, me”[24]

Deed from Ramsdell to Cooper- 14 Sept 1871

Charles was the son of Theodore and Mary Ramsdell who were poor farm laborers in York. In 1860 the Ramsdells only owned $100 of real estate and $15 of personal estate. Looks like Charles was doing quite well as by the 1870 census he was working at the Navy Yard and he and his wife Emily had two children and $1,000 worth of assets. So it sounds as if George had bought a room in the Ramsdell home… or perhaps this was collateral for a loan?

“Rochester Sept 17, 1871

Friend Cooper
I find myself in debt to you for sundry letters and having a few moments spare time I thought I would try and pay some of them we were much pleased to hear that our friends were getting along so well though it seams to me that Mary Abbie was a little in a hurry about having babies but young folks will do so you probably feel proud of your good crops well I am glad you prosper so well be thankfull and happy John seams to linger & along probably will for a good while but never get well, how odd it will look to see the cars running where you spent you boyish days tis what we never dreamed of but strange things happen these days; well what about us you will say as to our health tis about as usual except that I am very lame with a big carbuncle on the back part of my left thigh I have suffered a good deal with it and the prospect is that I shall suffer a good deal more I have to hobble round what I can for I have the care of about a dozen men who are digging reservoirs for water. Charles does what he can about harvesting I cant tell what my crop will be though corn looks well I think I shall have 60 or 70 bushels perhaps 100 bushels potatoes and 4 or 5 of beans 4 or more of peas &c my hay was light but I bought a ton and a half which with corn fodder and meal will winter the old horse & two cows; as to business tis pretty brisk there will be built probably between forty and fifty houses and stores in this village the present season the Portland and Rochester road is finished and cars run to Portland twice a day the road from here to Nashua will be built immediately and then one from here to Concord; the Camp meeting at Alton Bay closes to day I learn that there was a great gathering but was unable to attend hope it had done much good but I must draw to a close for it is time for me to milk the cows and feed the hog give our best respects to our friends at Kennebunk and reserve as much as you please for yourself.

Write as often as you can
very respectfully your &c
Nathl Dorman”

The “cars” mentioned are, of course, railroad cars and the “road” was the railroad. The train runs over River Road in Arundel where the Coopers and Dormans lived. Interesting about the construction in Rochester. This was when the mills were being built and housing was needed for the workers.

There is also another note from John Hill concerning a mortgage on the property he had purchased in 1874. The property was purchased for $200, however, it looks like he gave George $70 in cash as well. He paid off this loan in 3 years.

“I Tobias S.Nason of Kennebunk… in consideration of Two hundred forty two dollars and fifty cents paid by George J. Cooper of Kennebunkport… do… sell… land situated in said Kennebunkport… beginning at a corner at land of Joseph Dorman and Kennebunk River… by land of said Dorman to the town road… to land formerly of Oliver Whitehouse now of Henry S. Palmer… by land of said Palmer to said river… containing ten acres… Intending hereby to convey the same land that said Nason purchased of William Clark by deed dated January 23d 1873… Book 335, Page 282… twenty second day of March… one thousand eight hundred and seventy three… Tobias S. Nason, Augusta M. Nason”. [25]

George also purchased the Dorman farm. As noted from his letter, Nathaniel Dorman had moved to Rochester by 1871.

“I Hannah Dorman of Kennebunk port… in consideration of six hundred dollars paid by George J. Cooper of Kennebunk port… do… sell… land situated in Kennebunk port and being the Homestead farm of the late Joseph Dorman deceased and bounded… as follows, Beginning on the road leading from Abram Curriers house to Kennebunk port Village and at corner of said Coopers land thence by said Cooper’s land to Kennebunk River, thence northerly by said river to Mahlon Hutchinsons land; thence by said Hutchinsons land to said road… to the place of beginning with all the buildings thereon standing excepting and reserving so much of said land above described as was deeded by said Joseph Dorman to the Boston and Maine Rail Road Said land being same deeded by Andrew Goodwin to Joseph Dorman by deed… Book 205, pages 43 [ torn ] – 7 and devised by said Dorman to me. I also except and reserve to myself all the pine and hemlock sawing lumber standing on said premises with the privilege of removing the same at any time within eighteen months from date… this eleventh day of November… one thousand eight hundred and seventy- four
Hannah Dorman
In presence of
A.E. Haley”[26]

Deed from Dorman to Cooper- 11 Nov 1874

Hannah held a mortgage of $300 on the property at 6% interest.[27]

“Received of George J. Cooper fifteen dollars being the interest on 250.00 for the year 1874 on Note which I hold against said Cooper witness my hand this 12 day of June 1875
Nathl Dorman”

“I George J. Cooper of Kennebunkport… in consideration of three hundred and forty two dollars paid by John Hill of Kennebunk… do… sell… (reference may be had to deed of said John Hill to said George J. Cooper dated August 27, 1869… Book 313, page 206)… George J. Cooper… shall pay to the said John Hill… the sum of three hundred and forty two dollars in one year… with interest...this twentieth day of September… one thousand eight hundred and seventy eight… Geo. J. Cooper, Olive G. Cooper…”[28]

On 7 Oct. 1878, as one of the heirs of Abner Crediford, George purchased from Abraham Currier (his daughter-in-law's father) the family burying ground for $1.00..[29] The Coopers were laid to rest in this cemetery on River Road until they were moved to Hope Cemetery by George J. Cooper II.

“I Abraham Currier of Kennebunkport… in consideration of one dollar paid by George J. Cooper of said Kennebunkport and heirs of Abner Crediford late of said Kennebunkport deceased… do… sell… the lot of land used for a Burying Ground and situate upon the farm now owned and occupied by me in said Kennebunkport being the same I purchased of Sarah W. Dorman… And I also hereby grant a right of way or entrance to said Burying ground by the farm road or way across said farm and thence in the most direct line to said Burying ground with the least injury to grass or other growing crops… this seventh day of October… one thousand eight hundred and seventy-eight… Abraham Currier”. 6 March 1882.[30]

“I George J. Cooper of Kenebunkport… in consideration of six hundred dollars paid by George F. Cooper of said Kennebunkport… do… sell… a parcel of land situated in Said Kenebunkport Known as the “Dorman Farm” bounded beginning on the mill leading from Abram Curriers house to the Kennebunkport Village and at corner of said Geo. J. Cooper’s land thence by said Coopers to Kennebunk river, then northwesterly by said river to Mahlon Hutchinsons land, thence by said Hutchinsons land to said road, thence by said road to the place of beginning- together with the buildings thereon, excepting… as… deeded… to the Boston & Maine Railroad Co. Intending to convey the same estate… which was conveyed to me… by… Hannah Dorman of date Nov. 11. 1874 recorded in the registry of deeds of said County book 345, page 41… this eleventh day of November… one thousand eight hundred and seventy-nine.
Geo J. Cooper
Olive G. Cooper

Jos. Dane Justice of the Peace”[31]

Deed from George J. & Olive to George F. Cooper- 1879

“I George J. Cooper of Kennebunkport… in consideration of one hundred dollars paid by the Kennebunk Savings Bank… a certain wood lot situate in said Kennebunkport containing five acres… bounded by John Bartlett… Amasa Huff & Henry Palmer… by Abraham Currier… by Arthur Clough… described in a deed from Wm M. Lord to me dated Sept 9, 1865…Book 294, page 123… at the rate of seven per centum per annum… Geo. J. Cooper.”

“I George J. Cooper of Kennebunk port… in consideration of one hundred dollars paid by Kennebunk Savings Bank… a certain wood lot… in… Kennebunkport, containing five acres…bounded by John Bartlett… Amasa Huff & Henry Palmer… Abraham Currier and… by Arthur Clough… described in a deed from Wm M Lord to me, dated Sep 9, 1865… book 294, page 123… at the rate of seven per centum, per annum… this third day of July… one thousand eight hundred and seventy-nine
Geo. J. Cooper
In presence of
Jos. Dane”[32]

On 16 Feb. 1880 George took out a $70 mortgage on this property with the bank for 6% interest using the same wood lot as collateral.[33]

“I George J. Cooper of Kennebunkport… in consideration of two hundred dollars paid by the Kennebunk Savings Bank… a parcel of tillage land situate on the westerly side of the road leading from the mills to Durrills Bridge so and called and in said Kennebunkport near the dwelling house of said Cooper and bounded by said road, by land of Henry Palmer, by Kennebunk river and by land of Geo. F. Cooper, same containing ten acres more or less and same said Geo J. Cooper purchased of Tobias S. Nason… at the rate of six & half per centum, per annum… 30 April… one thousand eight hundred and eighty…
Geo J. Cooper
Olive G Cooper
In presence of
Jos Dane” [34]

In the 1880 census for Kennebunkport George and Olive are listed along with their son George F. who was listed as being a farmer. They were living next to Abram and Catherine Currier and their children Lucy, Charles and Clara... so it looks like Georgie did marry the girl next door! [35]

“I Stephen G. Dorman executor of the will of Hannah Dorman late of Kennebunk…deceased who was mortgaged in a certain mortgage deed to her from Geo. J. Cooper dated Nov. 11 A.D. 1874… Book 342 page 359 in consideration that the debt secured by said mortgage has heretofore been fully paid… do hereby do cancel and discharge the said mortgage deed… December 20, 1880… Stephen G. Dorman”[36]

“I George J. Cooper of Kennebunkport… in consideration of five hundred dollars paid by the Kennebunk Savings Bank… so… sell… a parcel of tillage… in Kennebunkport on the Westerly side of the road leading from the Mills to Durrell’s bridge so called near the dwelling house of said Cooper and bounded by said road by land of Henry Palmer by Kennebunk river and by land of Geo. F. Cooper same containing ten acres… the same land said George J. Cooper purchased of Tobias S. Nason. Also a certain wood lot situated in said Kennebunkport containing five acres… bounded by land of John Bartlett… by Amasa Huff… Henry Palmer… of Abraham Currier and … by land of Arthur Clough…at the rate of six per centum per annum…” Discharged 30 July 1891. [37]

From Andrew Walker’s Diary: “Saturday, April 11th [1882]
George Cooper away- George Cooper, of Kennebunkport, left town to day for the “Sailor’s Snug Harbor”, an asylum for seamen who are superannuated. This asylum is on Statin Island in the Bay of New York, six miles from the city. Mr. Cooper says he was 65 years old last January.”[38]

Entry in Andrew Walker's Diary

Snug Harbor was founded in 1801 by a bequest of Capt. Robert Richard Randall as an institution to care for “aged, decrepit and worn-out” sailors. The country’s first home for retired sailors opened in 1833. From 1867 to 1884 Capt. Thomas Melville was the governor of the place (his signature is on George’s application). You probably have heard of his famous brother, Herman Melville, author of “Moby Dick”. At its peak about a thousand sailors lived there and it was one of the wealthiest charities in New York as its investments in Washington Square properties netted a surplus of $100,000 per year. With the advent of Social Security there wasn’t a need for such a facility and by the 1960’s it had become quite run-down and was taken over by the New York Landmarks Commission and it was declared a National Historic Landmark in 1965. Capt. Randall’s trust no longer runs a retirement home, however, the trustees continue to use the funds from its endowment to help mariners all over the country. [39]

“Wednesday, June 20th [1883]
George Cooper home on a visit- George Cooper went to the “Sailor Snug Harbor” asylum in April 1882. Yesterday he returned home on a visit. His health is not as good as it was when he went away. Has been quite sick recently.”[40]

Entry in Andrew Walker's Diary

“Monday, Sept. 3rd [1883] George Cooper of Kennebunk port, returned home on a visit last June. To day he left his family (wife and one child, now a man) on his return to the ‘Sailor’s Snug Harbor’”.[41]

Entry in Andrew Walker's Diary

“Box 109
[ ] Dec the 3 1883
Dear son I rec a few lines from you of Nov 23 and [ ] & one from you & none from your mother & onley 2 journals but the [ ] that the [ ] thare [ ] & when you send me a paper or a letter drect to Box 109 Capt Prays you cant trust no one hear in this place with onny thing I am most tired of the place If I head enny place to go I wood not stay I am in the Hosptle yet & will probly stay for some time yet if tha will ceep me I am a gaining slow about the same as I did last sumer althou my last was the wost I ever head & don’t think I will go through another I was the same as your Aunt Abigal for 10 days I am well [ ] plenty to eat & a good room warm & comforble but lonesome On plesant days I can walk out & dose I shood think some one wood write me but after an old salor comes to the [ ] is the last of him in the Estimation of the publick & [ ] always attached to my [ ] place [ ] if fading out it seems that some one of my [ ] wood write write me Mary Abby wrote me one letter & wrote you a few days [ ] a note in from mr Burnham I [ ] to Bess Burnham I dont [ ] it the Man that was with him and stood by the plank when tha committed him to the the sea in the cribean Sea Laid up in his Hamac & [ ] shot at his feet that was the last of poor Bif Bas (?) the man sets besides me now a poor old broken down man a pitful case but as bad of as I am I can render him a goodeal of favers he almost hepless altou he is but 63 next January Is Mr Nason over at the [ ]yet if I shood here How is Mr Cloug & wife & the rest of the family (?Widow) Palmer was agoing to write me how doe you git along you wrote she want well we have no snow as yet I sent you some papers I will send by this give my resp Capt A Hill tell him I am oblige to him for his letter I did not git Tell your mother to write me my S’tan hase not come yet I am a going out & try [ ] S’tan just come & hase promised to bee more pastitun [?patient] so I will try him a spell longer From your Farther”

Unfortunately, the letter is written in pencil and is very difficult to read. It certainly appears as though George had suffered from a stroke as well as a bit of dementia as the letter is rambling, the spelling and handwriting poor and is not what I would have expected given his station in life and the educational level of his wife Olive.

In his will George left bequests to his wife Olive G. Cooper, his niece Mary A. Knight (I suspect the Mary Abby mentioned in the above letter, his sister Abigail’s daughter), wife of Joseph Knight, to his son George F. Cooper and to his grandson John F. Cooper, son of George F. Cooper. He also directed his executor to place headstones on his grave and on those of his mother and sister (but doesn’t mention his father). Also mentioned in his will is his seven acre lot in Kennebunkport on the road to Walker's Mills on the Kennebunk River which was bounded by George F. Cooper's land. The will is dated 15 Aug. 1884 and 1 Oct. 1885 and Walter L. Dane was the administrator.[42]

“Know all men by these presents, That I, George J. Cooper of Kennebunkport… do make… my last will and testament… I… direct my said executor to have headstones placed at the graves of my deceased mother and deceased sister and at my own grave and also at that of my wife if she die before me; at an expenditure of about twelve dollars each.

Second- I hereby give to my executor the sum of twenty-five dollars to have and hold in trust to be expended by him at his discretion for the purpose of repairing and keeping in good order my cemetery lot and yard.

Third- my will is, that any and all sums due or collected, or any policy of insurance on my life, shall or a portion of my estate to be disposed of by this will and be applied to the payment of my debts and legacies.

Fourth- I give and bequeath to my niece Mary A. Knights, wife of Joseph Knights, the sum of two hundred dollars, if she survives me, and if she dies before me, then [“to her eldest” crossed out] said legacy to lapse.

Fifth- I give and bequeath to my grandson John F. Cooper, son of George F. Cooper, the sum of one hundred dollars.

Sixth- I give to my son George F. Cooper one dollar.

Seventh- As to all the rest, residue and remainder of my estate, both real and personal, I give, bequeath and devise the same to my wife Olive G. Cooper…

Eighth- I hereby nominate and appoint Walter L. Dane of Kennebunk… to be the executor of this my last will and testament…

This fifteenth day of August… one thousand eight hundred and eighty-four.
Geo. J. Cooper…

Witnesses thereto.
[ ], Abram Hill
Nathaniel Hobbs, judge, Caroline L. Dane
Emma L. Guptill, Walter L. Dane…

George Cooper's Will

I George J. Cooper of Kennebunkport… do hereby declare this present writing to be a codicil to my said will…

First. I hereby revoke item fourth (4) of my said will hereto annexed-

Second, I give and bequeath to my niece Mary A. Knights wife of Joseph Knights, the sum of four hundred dollars, if she survive me, and if she dies before me then said legacy to lapse into my residuary estate.

Third. The provision made for my wife in my said will is in lieu of dower or other interest in my said estate…

This first day of October A.D. 1885
Geo J. Cooper…”

“I George J. Cooper of Kennebunkport… in consideration of Six hundred and twenty five dollars paid by Lillie O Hadlock formerly of Kennebunkport now of New Durham, New Hampshire… do… sell… land situated in said Kennebunkport on the road leading from Saco road past the house of Mahlon Hutchinson to said Kennebunkport village and bounded by said road on the East, Northerly by land of George Day, Westerly by the Kennebunkport river and Southerly by land formerly of Nathaniel L. Thompson together with the buildings thereon… this second day of October… one thousand eight hundred and eighty five… Geo. J. Cooper, Olive G. Cooper… in presence of W.L. Dane, Lucy M. Cooper”.[43]

“Monday, Oct. 3rd [1887]
George Cooper- what he says of Sailor’s Snug Harbor- George Cooper after a visit of a few weeks, left town to day for his winter home in the sailor’s snug Harbor near the city of New York.

He often came into my store. He says there are between eight and nine hundred sailors at the Harbor, representing 23 nationalities. The average number of deaths yearly is 56. He says the chaplain of the Harbor told him- ‘There are as good men here as can be found anywhere, and as bad men as can be found outside of Hell’”.[44]

Entry in Andrew Walker's Diary

This appears to be the last time George was home in Kennebunk Port as his chart from Snug Harbor shows that this was the last time he was on “liberty” until he died two years later. I wonder if anyone from the family was able to go down and visit him during this time. Sad to be so far from home and living in a nursing home debilitated from a stroke.

“South Berwick Jan 6 1889

My dear George
I will write a few lines to you may know that I arrived all safe found Nell at the Depot waiting for me I am having a nice time and look and feell better then I did when I left home I want to see you all espeshealy the children I miss my little bedfellow tell John I bid him good night at 7 he must be a good boy kiss both children for me my love to all tell Lucy to writ tell me all the news I hope you will write to your father answer this from your affectionate mother
OG Cooper”

“Wednesday, Oct. 1st [1890]
Death and burial of George Cooper- George Cooper, of Kennebunk port, died at the ‘Sailor’s Snug Harbor’, Statin Island, New York harbor, last Monday, aged 74 years. Charles H. Lucas, the undertaker, went to the Harbor for the remains and brought them to his former home. His funeral was attended this afternoon, Rev. Mr. Vines officiating. Mr. Cooper was a sailor many years, but did not suceed in becoming a master mariner, or in other words a sea captain. He went to ‘Snug Harbor’ in April 1882, and with the exception of a few visits at his old home, he remained there until his death”.[45]

Entry in Andrew Walker's Diary

“The following is a true Inventory of the… estate…

Real Estate

About 7 acres of field land in Kennebunkport and
lying on the road to Walkers Mills, bounded by said
road, land of George F. Cooper by Kennebunk river
and byland of [blank]…………………………….……..200.00

Widows dower not deducted

Goods and Chattels

Policy No. 64662 on life of deceased in Mut. Benefit
Life Ins. Co. from which is realized………………1004.07
Deposit in Kennebunk Savings Bank……………. 95.11
.............................................................................1099.18

Rights and Credits

Due on acct of W.L. Dane at decease………….... 6.14…

“… List of Claims… against the estate of George J. Cooper…

W.L. Watson - Papers...............................................3.00
C.H. Lucas - Undertaker........................................96.00
C.C. Vrial - Minister...................................................3.00
Telegrams.................................................................. .50
Dr Joy - med..............................................................1.35
Appraisers.................................................................4.00
Kennebunk Sav. Bk. - Mort and Note................277.00
Gravestones...........................................................36.00
................................................................................420.85

“… the amount due from the estate… is insufficient to pay the same…

Debts……………………………………………………….…$420.85
Legacies………………………………………………….…..$526.00
Expenses………………………………………………..……..$75.00
...........................................................................$1021.85

Amount of personal estate (after deducting widow’s
allowance)...........................................................$305.32
Personal Estate insufficient by……………………..$716.53

Sale of some part of the real estate… is necessary for the payment of said deficiency… to sell… a parcel of field land, situated in said Kennebunkport on the road leading from Kennebunkport village to Walker’s Mills, bounded westerly by Kennebunk River, Southerly by land of Henry Palmer, Easterly by said Road, and Northerly by land of George F. Cooper… this third day of February A.D. 1891…

“The First and Final account of Walter L. Dane Executor of… George J. Cooper…

For amount of personal estate as by
inventory.............................................................1105.32
For sums received as by Schedule A, on file
herewith…………………………………………………….….220.08
.............................................................................1325.40

For sums paid………………………………………….......434.01
For allowance to widow… less discount made at her
request to pay bills $15.87…………….…..............784.13
For publication of notice on this account…….......2.00
For publication of notice on will………………………..2.00
For publication of notice on appointment of
executor…………………………………………………….........1.00
For publication of notice on petition pr license to
sell R.E…………………………………………………...............2.00
For travel and attendance at Probate Court…
To present will at Alfred Oct. 1890…………………….4.00
“ pres will “ “ Nov. 1890……………................………4.00
“ returned Inventory at Saco Jan. 1891……………..3.00
“ present pet. To sell R.E. Feb. 1891…………………3.00
“ have same granted- mch 1891……………………….3.00
“ present this acct…………………………………………….3.00
“ have “ “ allowed……………………………...................4.00

Commission on $1303.40
assests at 5 per cent..............................................66.26
............................................................................$1325.40

Schedule A

Received- from sale of field on road to Walker’s
Mills adjoining said road and Kennebunk River.200.00
Six months interest on $1004.07 in Kennebunk
Savings Bank ……………………………………................20.08
...............................................................................220 08

Schedule B

Paid- Postage…………………………………………………….. .08
C.H. Lucas for funeral and undertakers expenses of
removal……………………………………….......................96.00
C.C. Vinal minister…………………………………..............3.00
Telegrams………………………………………………………….. .50
Dr. H.D. Joy Notary etc………………………………………1.35
Abstract of will- Register of Probate………………….1.39
2 certificates of appt………………………………………….1.04
W.L Watson- newspaper……………………………………3.00
Appraisers…………………………………………………………4.00
Kennebunk Savs Bank Note & Int………………….282.65
C.H. Lucas to repair Graveyard………………………..15.00
................................................................................444.01”[46]

“I Walter L. Dane of Kennebunk… executor of the Will of George J. Cooper, late of Kennebunkport… on the tenth day of March A.D. 1891 obtained License… to sell… the Real Estate herein after described of the said deceased for the sum of two hundred Dollars… in consideration of the aforesaid sum of two hundred Dollars to me paid by Olive G. Cooper… do… sell… a parcel of field land situated in said Kennebunkport on the road leading from Kennebunkport to Walkers Mills… by Kennebunk River… land of Henry Palmer… by land of George F. Cooper… this thirty first day of July… one thousand eight hundred and ninety one”[47]

Sources

  1. York Deeds- Vol.174, p.95
  2. York Deeds- Vol.174, p.95
  3. York Deeds- Vol.174, p.95
  4. York Deeds- Vol.180, p.188
  5. Original in possession of Dr. Jeffrey E. Martin- York, Maine
  6. York Deeds- Vol.185, p.236
  7. Original in possession of Dr. Jeffrey E. Martin- York, Maine
  8. Original in possession of Dr. Jeffrey E. Martin- York, Maine
  9. York Deeds- Vol.197, p.105
  10. York Deeds- Vol.197, p.105
  11. Original in possession of Dr. Jeffrey E. Martin- York, Maine
  12. York Deeds- Vol.213, p.536
  13. Original in possession of Dr. Jeffrey E. Martin- York, Maine
  14. Andrew Walker Diary- Vol. II, p. 146, Kennebunk Free Library
  15. York Deeds- Vol. 254, p. 47
  16. Biographical Memoirs of Greene County, Indiana- B.F. Bowen & Co., Indianapolis-Vol. III, pp. 1238-1241
  17. York Deeds- Vol. 257, p. 399
  18. 1860 Census for Kennebunkport- p.6, house #48
  19. York Deeds- Vol. 273, p. 22
  20. York Deeds- Vol. 294, fol. 123
  21. York Deeds- Vol. 417, fol. 477
  22. York Deeds- Vol. 313, fol. 206
  23. 1870 census for Kennebunkport- p. 41
  24. Original in possession of Dr. Jeffrey E. Martin- York, Maine
  25. York Deeds- Vol. 335, p. 389
  26. York Deeds- Vol. 345, p. 41
  27. York Deeds- Vol. 342, p. 359
  28. York Deeds- Vol. 368, p. 52
  29. York Co. Deeds- Vol.396, p.389
  30. York Co. Deeds- Vol.368, p.502
  31. York Co. Deeds- Vol.371, p.67
  32. Documents in possession of Dr. Jeffrey E. Martin- York, ME
  33. York Deeds- Vol. 373, p. 275
  34. York Deeds- Vol. 373, p. 390
  35. 1880 Census- LDS film 1254491, p.298c
  36. York Deeds- Vol. 380, p. 154
  37. York Deeds- Vol. 385, p. 553
  38. Andrew Walker Diary- Vol. VIII, p. 171, Kennebunk Free Library
  39. Check out the Snug Harbor Cultural Center & Botanical Gardens web page at: snug-harbor.org; see also the Wikipedia article at: en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sailors’_Snug_Harbor. Records from Greg Murphy, Head Ref. Librarian/Archivist- Stephen B. Luce Library, Maritime College, SUNY
  40. Andrew Walker Diary- Vol. VIII, p. 267, Kennebunk Free Library
  41. Andrew Walker Diary- Vol. VIII, p. 281, Kennebunk Free Library
  42. York Co. Probate- No. 3543, abstract of will in the York Co. Deeds- Vol. 445, p. 61
  43. York Deeds- Vol. 404, p. 524
  44. Andrew Walker's Diary-Vol. IX, p. 225
  45. Andrew Walker's Diary-Vol. X, p. 86
  46. York Co. Probate- No. 3543, abstract of will in York Deeds- Vol. 445, p. 61
  47. York Deeds- Vol. 445, p. 359
  • Kennebunkport V.R.




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C  >  Cooper  >  George Jefferds Cooper

Categories: Kennebunkport, Maine | Cooper Name Study