Sources

Did Connecticut pay the 1780 beef tax?

The simple answer: yes. “And be it further enacted That a tax of two shillings and six pence on the pound be and the same is hereby laid upon the polls and rateable estate of the inhabitants of this State upon the list aforesaid to be paid by the first day of December next inContinue reading “Did Connecticut pay the 1780 beef tax?”

What was the 1780 beef tax?

In order to furnish the Continental Army with supplies, the 1780 Massachusetts legislature passed a tax specifically designed to provide beef. This tax was allowed to be paid in either money or in cattle. Because this was a payment of tax specifically in support of the Revolutionary cause, it can be considered qualifying service forContinue reading “What was the 1780 beef tax?”

I’m researching a patriot of color in Connecticut. Should I check militia records?

The simple answer: yes. It seems to have been more common for patriots of color to serve on the Continental Line. Due to longer enlistments, the financial benefit of joining the Continental Line was greater. A Continental soldier could have an enlistment bounty in addition to his regular pay. Enslaved soldiers may have been promisedContinue reading “I’m researching a patriot of color in Connecticut. Should I check militia records?”

5 Sources to Avoid Using for Mayflower Society Applications

Are you home researching for fun? While now is a great time to start working your application for the General Society of Mayflower Descendants – and you might even get a 2020 join date if you apply now – there are a few sources you should avoid. Family trees and pedigree charts: We see aContinue reading “5 Sources to Avoid Using for Mayflower Society Applications”

5 Sources to Avoid in Daughters of the American Revolution Applications

Once you’ve documented the “first three,” the use of civil registration (vital records) is recommended but not required by the Daughters of the American Revolution. As you get further back in time, they don’t always exist. You’ll need to substitute other sources. Here are five you should avoid: Family trees: Just because you found itContinue reading “5 Sources to Avoid in Daughters of the American Revolution Applications”