Thomas Willis

by


Thomas Willis (perhaps also known as Wilki/en/rson) probably was born before 1720. We seek information on his background and early life.

In 1742, a Thomas Wilkinson was included at the end of a list of first ward freeholders.

By the late 1740s, he had married Albany native Rachel Radcliff. By 1769, nine children had been christened in Albany Dutch church and possibly other area churches as well.

In 1756, a census of Albany householders identified "Thomas Willis" as a weaver. Beginning in 1766, city assessment rolls valued his first ward property modestly. In 1779, his holdings again were located on the Southside of the city.

In March 1765 and December 1766, his (Thomas Wilkison) lots or pastures near the river and the Beaverkill were among those referenced in a real estate description.

After 1779, the name of Thomas Willis has not been found among the community-based resources encountered so far. In 1790, his widow Rachel was listed on the census as the head of a first ward household.


biography in-progress


notes

the people of colonial Albany Sources: The life of Thomas Willis is CAP biography number 6920. This sketch is derived chiefly from family and community-based resources.





first posted: 1/10/10