Edward Archer

Edward Archer was born before 1735. A number of variations in the spelling of his surname have been encountered. Perhaps he was the son of a William Orchard of Johnston who was killed by Indians.

His wife was Catherine (Magie or Carter). In 1773, they were identified as new members of St. Peter's Anglican church. At that time, their family included four children - at least three of whom had been christened at St. Peter's between 1755 and 1761.

In October 1779, his Albany holdings were lightly assessed - the only time his name actually appears on a city assessment roll.

In July 1780, he appeared before the Albany Commissioners and reported on a subversive declaration he had overheard. At that time, he was identified as a resident of the city of Albany. In March 1779, he had been sent as a guide with a party in search of Tories. Later, his account for twenty-two pounds was paid by the Commissioners. He may have served in the Revolutionary army. Afterwards, he was accorded a bounty right in conjunction with the Albany militia regiment.

In April 1781, an unspecified entity (document [LWS 4508-1 ] found in an Albany context) contracted with an Edward Orchard to keep two rooms in good order.

In 1788, "Edward Orchard" owed a pound to the estate of a deceased Albany physician.

In 1790, his household was configured on the census for Watervliet. After that, his name dropped from Albany rolls.

In May 1812, an Edward Archer was named as a son in the will filed by Albany resident George Archer. Perhaps the testator was the brother or son of Edward.

Sources: The life of Edward Archer is CAP biography number 6532. This sketch is derived chiefly from family and community-based resources.

Spellings: Also Archard, Orchard, Orsen. Perhaps he was John or William Edward Archer.

The source of this information is at present missing. Several other Archers are mentioned in the Index to the Johnson Papers.