First Herberts

The following data is extracted from Herbert Family Papers.

The first Herbert to appear in the records of New Jersey thus far discovered (1927) was one Bridget Herbert, a widow, living in Middletown, Monmouth County. The old Town Book of
Middletown has the following entry:
 
1673, November 8th. “Bridget Herbert and Edward Smith came this day: declaring their consent: to have this following putt to record March 25, 1671 Articles of agreement made between Edward Smith of the one party: and Bridgett Herbert of the other a(s) followeth: both of them Inhabitants of Middletown: wch is to say that the said Edw doth lett unto the said Bridgett a purchase share of land with all the privileges thereunto belonging for the space of five years after the date hereof: it is further agreed upon that for the use of the house: the said Bridgett is to pay twelve pence a year: It is agreed upon that when the five years above said is expired: that the lott is to he left in good sufficient fence as shall bee Judged of: and like wise the orchard is to bee fenced in: and whatt fencing is made abroad is to remaine: it is further agreed upon: that the said Bridgett is to make a chimney to the dwelling house: and likewise a floore to the loft it is further agreed upon that what out buildings the sayd Bridgett shall build: that shee bee paid according to valuation to wch agreement both parties have hereunto sett their hands the day and year above written
“Testis James Dorsett Edward Smith
Thos: T Cockes
Bridgett Hearbertt
Signum tails”

See J. H. Stillwell’s Historical and Genealogical Miscellany, Vol 2, p. 178.

It was probably at this same date or thereabouts, that she had earmarks for cattle recorded:
“Widdow Harbertt or her sons Thomas Herbert” (Ibid. p. 54)
No further record of her, but Dr. Stillwell believes that she m. William Bowne of Middletown, N. J. as he and wife Bridget sign deeds 1704, 1705, 1709. (Ibid~. vol. 5, p. 42). It was a most unusual name in East Jersey at that time, and she seems to have been the only one in Middletown who had it, unless she had a daughter Bridget, which seams not unlikely. The Herberts always considered the Bownes were relatives, and this is the only obvious connection yet encountered.

Whence did she come?

What was her husband’s first name?

When the above lease expired in 1676, both Thomas Herbert and Francis claimed rights of land under the Grants and Concessions.

Source: Herbert Family Papers

  Go Back