Arthur Howland

• Birth: say 1590 - Fenstanton, Huntingdonshire District, Cambridgeshire, England
• Death: 30 Oct 1675 (aged 83–84) - Marshfield, Plymouth Colony
• Burial: Old Winslow Burying Ground Marshfield, Plymouth County, Massachusetts, USA PLOT Monument of Early Settleres
• Parents: Henry Howland (DNA confirmed) and Margaret (Unknown)
• Husband of Grace (Unknown) — married before 1616 in England
• Husband of Margaret (Unknown), widow Walker — married before 1640 in England

  ---

Ancestor of Winston Churchill.

Biography

Updated 10 March 2025

Unraveling the Origins of Arthur Howland: A Study of Family Connections and Historical Records

The origins of Arthur Howland, a significant figure in early American history, have long been a subject of interest and confusion. Based on historical records, including the Drapers' company records and probate records, it is likely that Arthur Howland was born around 1590 as the son of Henry Howland of Fenstanton. However, our research cannot determine when Arthur's father, Henry, moved to Fenstanton or whether any of his other siblings were born there or elsewhere.

Misidentification of Records

Confusion on the internet arises from the misidentification of the baptismal record. Some genealogists incorrectly link the baptismal record of January 16, 1602/03, at Holy Trinity, Ely, Cambridge, England, to Arthur Howland. In reality, this record pertains to John Howland, who was the son of Henry Howland of Ely. Importantly, there are no baptismal or birth records for Arthur Howland in the parish registers of Fenstanton. Although the parish registers of Fenstanton began in 1612, Bishop’s Transcripts for the years 1604–1605, 1608, and 1610 provide additional information beyond the existing original registers.[1]

Siblings and Family Connections

Arthur Howland was the brother of John Howland, who is famously known as a passenger on the Mayflower.[2] He also had several siblings, including Henry Howland, a Plymouth colonist; Humphrey Howland, a draper in London; Simon Howland; George Howland; and their sister Margaret (Howland) Phillips.

In 1646, Humphrey Howland's will mentioned his brother Simon, his sister Margaret Phillips in England, and his three other brothers: Arthur, Henry, and John, who lived in New England. Additionally, Humphrey took charge of administering the estate belonging to his brother George Howland.[3]

Evidence from Records

According to the Drapers' Company records, Humphrey is documented as the son of Henry Howland of Fenstanton, although his mother's name is not specified.[4][5][6][7][8][9] Therefore, based on the evidence from the Drapers' Company records and Humphrey's will, it is evident that Arthur Howland was indeed the son of Henry Howland from Fenstanton.

Furthermore, DNA testing has confirmed that Arthur Howland shares genetic connections with both John Howland and Henry Howland, establishing them as sons of Henry Howland from Fenstanton.[10]

Conclusion

In conclusion, the evidence strongly supports the assertion that Arthur Howland was the son of Henry Howland of Fenstanton. This research not only clarifies Arthur's lineage but also highlights the complexities and confusions surrounding historical records related to the Howland family.

Unraveling the Mysteries of Arthur Howland's Marriages: A Genealogical Investigation

Some researchers believe that Arthur Howland had two wives and did not marry Margaret until after 1640. In their 1983 article, "Arthur Howland of Plymouth, Mass., 1640," published in the 71st volume of the National Genealogical Society Quarterly, Robert S. Wakefield and Robert M. Sherman stated, "But no supporting evidence has yet been found."[11]

In 2015, the Pilgrim John Howland Society Board voted to hire Mayflower scholar Caleb Johnson and British records researcher Simon Neal to conduct research aimed at uncovering more information about Arthur Howland's family. Johnson's work, "Henry Howland of Fenstanton, Huntingdonshire: Father of Mayflower Passenger John Howland," is available online and provides valuable insights into the Howland family lineage.

Caleb H. Johnson, a recognized authority in Mayflower genealogy, provided the following insights:

"Arthur Howland was born about 1591 and may have been the eldest son, although it is not possible to determine this conclusively since no baptism records exist. His age is estimated based on the fact he buried a child, Azariell, at St. Giles Cripplegate, London, on 31 December 1616, at which time he would have likely been about 25 years old. While no baptism or marriage records exist in this parish for any Howlands, the family burials are recorded, and his occupation (glover, leather dresser) is given in those. His wife Grace was buried there on 4 December 1635, with a marginal note “Excomuni,” suggesting either she or her husband (or both) had been excommunicated.[12] The names of some of his children that were buried (Azariell, Zoheth) hint he may have taken on some religious viewpoints that differed from the Church of England, which the excommunication record would seem to further confirm. The last family burial recorded at St. Giles Cripplegate, London, was 30 May 1639 for daughter Martha."

The evidence indicates that Arthur Howland married Grace at some point before 1635. A 1663 deed suggests that he later married Margaret in England, but no additional evidence has been found to confirm the exact date of this marriage. On 19 May 1663, Arthur Howland deeded twenty acres to his stepson, John Walker, who was Margaret's son from her previous marriage. This deed was in consideration of £17:14:10 paid by his wife, Margaret Howland, for his use in old England. This money was likely given or promised by Margaret during her widowhood to her son, indicating a close familial relationship and financial support.[13]

Mrs. Margaret Walker became a widow sometime before she married Arthur Howland in England. Before June 6, 1643, when John Walker was referred to as his son-in-law, Arthur Howland married Margaret Walker, a widow.[15] Therefore, she must have been his second wife.[16]

Confusion about Margaret's name has also abounded. A 1643 agreement by John Walker, "son-in-law of Arthur Howland," and Walker's marriage to Lydia Reed has been interpreted to mean that Margaret was the mother of Lydia Reed and therefore a widow Reed before her marriage to Howland. However, it is important to note that Lydia Reed did not marry John Walker until 1654, eleven years after John Walker was called "son-in-law" of Arthur Howland.[19] This timeline clarifies that Margaret could not have been Lydia Reed's mother.

The term "son-in-law" had a broader meaning in the seventeenth century, including stepson. The fact that John Walker was a stepson of Arthur Howland is revealed in a deed dated 19 May 1663.[19]

In summary, the maiden name of Margaret, who first married a Walker and then Arthur Howland, remains unknown. This ongoing mystery highlights the complexities of genealogical research and the need for further investigation into the lives of early settlers like Arthur Howland and his family.

Understanding these connections not only enriches our knowledge of the Howland lineage but also sheds light on the broader context of early American history. Future research could focus on uncovering additional records or exploring the lives of other family members to provide a more comprehensive understanding of their heritage. We invite fellow researchers and enthusiasts to contribute insights or findings that may help illuminate this fascinating chapter of history.

The Journey of Arthur Howland: A Pioneer in Plymouth Colony

Exploring the Life and Legacy of a Quaker Settler

Introduction to a Pioneer

Arthur’s brother John sailed to the New World on the Mayflower in 1620. His brother Henry came later (as early as 1633) because he appeared on the Plymouth Freemen list in 1633; however, Arthur did not appear with John and Henry on the list that year.[46] He buried his daughter, Martha, in London on 30 May 1639, which was the last record of his name in England. Therefore, he had remained in England since 1633 and later came to Plymouth Colony sometime between 1639 and 1640.

Early Records in New England

Arthur's earliest known appearance in New England is in 1640. The first mention of Arthur is on 6 August 1640, where he is described as a planter in Duxbury, Plymouth Colony, as referenced in the notebook of Boston attorney Thomas Lechford.[18][19][24]

Guardian and Pillar of Community in Early Colonial New England

Arthur Howland was a notable figure in early colonial New England, particularly known for his role as a planter in Duxbury, Massachusetts. He was part of the wave of settlers who sought new opportunities in the New World during the 17th century, drawn by the promise of land and the chance to build a new life.

Howland's significance is highlighted in the context of the legal document concerning the custody and care of Thomas Floyd, the son of Anne and John Floyd. In this document, Arthur Howland is identified as the guardian of young Thomas, who was living with him at the time. This arrangement reflects the communal nature of early colonial society, where families often relied on one another for support and care, especially in the absence of parents or guardians.

The document also indicates that Howland was responsible for the maintenance of Thomas Floyd during his stay, which included financial obligations that he was expected to fulfill. The mention of debts owed to Howland by various individuals underscores his role as a person of some standing in the community, likely involved in trade and local affairs.

Overall, Arthur Howland's life and actions exemplify the interconnectedness of early colonial families and the responsibilities they shared in raising children and managing resources. His role as a guardian for Thomas Floyd not only highlights his personal character but also reflects the broader social dynamics of the time, where trust and cooperation were essential for survival and prosperity in the new world.

Religious Context and Settlement

The records of Plymouth Colony imply that sometime before 1640 in England, Arthur was a non-conformist, perhaps a Puritan, as were his brothers John and Henry.[20][21] He later settled in Marshfield from Duxbury in Plymouth Colony sometime between 6 August 1640 and 2 November 1640.[24]

Land Grants and Freeman Status

Three hundred acres of upland in Marshfield were granted on 2 July 1638 to Capt. Myles Standish and Mr. John Alden, "lying on the north side of South River, bounded on the east by Beaver Pond and on the west by a brook." This land was later conveyed to Arthur Howland for a consideration of £21 sterling (13 pounds in money and the balance in corn and cattle) on 20 January 1647.[22][23] He received a land grant of 50 acres and some meadow in what is now Marshfield on 2 November 1640.[25] He became a Plymouth Colony freeman on 1 March 1641/2.[26] (A "freeman" in this context refers to a man who had been granted the rights of citizenship in the colony, allowing him to participate in local governance and other civic duties.)

Military Service and Community Involvement

He served in the military in 1642 in Lieut. Thomas' Company during the Colonial Wars. He was listed among the men able to bear arms in Marshfield in 1643.

Family Life and Marriages

After the death of his first wife, Arthur Howland married his second wife, Margaret, the widow of a Walker, sometime before 6 June 1643, when John Walker was referred to as his son-in-law (step-son).[15] He may have married her in England or Marshfield, Plymouth Colony, sometime before their son Arthur Howland was born around 1640.

Legal Challenges

On 5 November 1644, a suit was commenced by Arthur Howland against Roberte Mendam's wife, who had brought items for Arthur from England but did not deliver them, instead selling them and converting the money to her own use, as was proved in court. Furthermore, Roberte Mendam authorized Thomas Clark of Eele River to sell a parcel of land that Mendam owned at Duxborrow, specifically ten acres of upland and two acres of meadow. Thomas Clark performed the sale for him, selling it to William Hiller of Duxborrow for one Dutch cow valued at six pounds, and confirmed the sale to Hiller. The court granted judgment upon the cow to Howland and confirmed the land to Hiller.[27]

Further Transactions and Legal Matters

On 20 January 1647[/8?], "Mr. William Paddy of New Plymouth, merchant, on behalf of Mr. Edmond Freeman Senior of Sandwidg, gent." sold to Mr. Arthur Howland of Marshfield, planter, "one half of a certain tract of upland and marsh meadow estimated at about three hundred acres... which was formerly granted to Captain Miles Standish and Mr. John Alden, lying on the north side of South River."[28] In 1650, Arthur Howland sued Walter Baker and won a verdict.[16]

Court Appearances and Community Service

Arthur Howland was in court on 7 October 1651 for not attending public assemblies on the Lord's Day.[16] He was a member of the grand jury in 1654.[16] His last public service was performed on 6 February 1654/5 with his nephew, John Howland, Jr., when he was foreman of a coroner's jury inquiring into the death of a boy named John Walker, who was apparently not his stepson of that name. The boy had been a servant of Robert Latham, and the jury decided that he had died from cruelty and hard usage, the evidence being quite distressing.[16][29]

Disputes and Legal Challenges

Arthur Howland had difficulties with Thomas Doggett over the bounds of the Freeman purchase, where he was then living. Arthur petitioned the court to define the bounds on 3 July 1654. A surveyor was appointed, and the matter did not reach an agreement until 3 July 1656.[16]

Religious Beliefs and Quaker Affiliation

Arthur Howland was a member of the Society of Friends, also known as the Quakers. Despite the fact that most of the Pilgrims emigrated to America to avoid religious and other persecution in England, they were intolerant of other religions in their midst in Plymouth Colony, particularly towards the Quakers. The Pilgrims passed specific laws and imposed punishments (fines and jail time) against anyone who associated with a Quaker.

Confrontation with Authorities

On 19 December 1657, Robert Huchin, an itinerant Quaker, held a meeting at Arthur Howland's house. William Collyare witnessed their practices and went to inform Capt. Josias Winslow about what he saw. Winslow issued a warrant to John Phillips of Marshfield, the constable, to arrest Robert Huchin. Afterward, John Howland, Jr. went to warn Arthur Howland that Capt. Winslow had sent Phillips to break up the gathering and make arrests. Arthur Howland managed to help Huchin escape.

On Sunday, 20 December, the constable went to Arthur Howland's house and found no one there. The next day, Monday, 21 December, Capt. Winslow issued a warrant to John Phillips to go to Arthur Howland's house to warn him to appear personally the following day at the house of John Alden, the magistrate. Phillips took Joseph Rogers and his brother with him and returned to Arthur Howland's house. He found Robert Huchin inside. Phillips instructed Arthur Howland to appear personally at John Alden's house to explain why he had entertained the Quaker and invited others to hear him.[29] Phillips attempted to arrest Huchin, but Arthur Howland intervened, preventing the arrest. He pushed Phillips out of his house and threatened him, stating that he would have either a sword or a gun in his belly. Joseph Rogers refused to assist Phillips, making it impossible for him to take Huchin away. Phillips went to the mills to seek more assistance, but by the time he returned, Robert Huchin had vanished.

Legal Consequences

On 22 December, Tuesday, Arthur Howland was apprehended and taken before Mr. John Alden, the magistrate.[16][31] Arthur Howland was sentenced to provide bonds for his appearance at the General Court to be held at Plymouth on the first Tuesday in March. In the meantime, he was ordered to maintain good behavior towards all people. He refused to provide his own bond and was committed to the custody of the chief marshal, where he was lodged in jail.[32]

John Howland, Jr. was summoned to appear in court for providing information to his uncle, Arthur Howland and the Quaker, along with others who had met on 19 December, the Lord's Day.[32]

On 2 March 1657/58, Arthur Howland was fined £9 and bound for good behavior. While in jail, he composed "a writing" which he presented to the court, but the magistrates deemed it full of factious, seditious, and slanderous passages. He refused to pay the fines and was again committed to prison. However, on 1 June 1658, he admitted to having done wrong and was released. Nevertheless, he continued to adhere to Quaker teachings.[16]

Later Years and Legacy

In 1669, he was arrested for neglecting to pay his Minister Tax, but due to his advanced age, he was excused from paying.

Arthur Howland lived and died on his farm, as did five generations of his descendants. He died and was buried on his farm in Marshfield on 30 October 1675, in Plymouth County, Plymouth Colony.[33][34] His widow, Margaret Howland, outlived him, passing away on 23 October 1683 in Marshfield. They are now buried in unmarked graves.

However, on Winslow Cemetery Road in Marshfield, Massachusetts, there is a large monument dedicated to the early settlers of Green Harbor, Massachusetts, and one of those listed is Arthur Howland and his wife, Margaret. Arthur's daughter, Mary, and her husband, Timothy Williamson, are also commemorated there.

Children

The children of Arthur and Grace (---) Howland:

1. Azariell Howland, bur. 31 December 1616, St. Giles Cripplegate, London.[35][36]
2. Zoheth Howland, bur. 10 August 1625, St. Giles Cripplegate, London.[35][36]
3. Mary Howland, bur. 27 September 1625, St. Giles Cripplegate, London.[35][36]
4. Elizabeth Howland, bur. 21 April 1634, St. Giles Cripplegate, London.[35][36]
5. Deborah Howland, who m. John Smith, 4 January 1648/9, Plymouth.[36] She had to be at least 18 years old to marry him in 1649, so she would be born before 1631.
6. Mary Howland, who m. first, Timothy Williamson, 6 January 1653, Marshfield and m. second, Robert Stanford.[36] She had to be at least 18 years old to marry him in 1653, so she would be born before 1635.

The children of Arthur and Margaret (---) Walker Howland:

1. [Probable] Martha Howland, bur. 30 May 1639, St. Giles Cripplegate, London. [Martha could have been by wife Grace also].[35][36]
2. Martha Howland, b. say 1640; m. John Damon, 15 January 1658, Scituate,[37] and 2nd m. Peter Bacon.[36] She had to be at least 18 years old to marry him in 1658, so she would be born before 1640.
3. Elizabeth Howland, who m. John Low.[36]
4. Arthur Howland [Jr], b. say 1642;[36] m. Elizabeth Prince, 9 December 1667, Marshfield.[38] He was mentioned in Quaker records.[39] and in his father’s will. Only Arthur is confirmed son of Margaret (---) Walker Howland.

Last Will & Testament

(Dated 3 July 1674; exhibited 7 Mar 1675/6)

The last will and testament of Arthur Howland deceased exhibited to the Court holden at Plymouth the fourteenth of March Anno Dom: sixteen hundred seventy-five, and ordered by the said Court to be recorded.

"In the name of God, Amen. I Arthur Howland of Marshfield in the colony of new Plymouth in New England yeoman, being weak of body but of sound and perfect memory, thanks to almighty goods for the same: knowing the uncertainty of this short life and being desirous to settle that outward estate that the Lord has lent me; I do make this my last will & testament in manner and form following: that is to say, first and principally I commend my soul to almighty God my creator expecting to receive full pardon of all my sinnes and salvation by Jesus Christ my redeemer and my body to the earth: to be buried in desent manner by my executrix hereinafter named as shall bee thought meet & convenient; and as concerning such worldly estate which the Lord has lent me my will and meaning is the same shall be employed and bestowed; as hereafter in and by this my will is expressed.

Imp. I do revoke and renounce all and make void all wills by me formerly made and declare and affirm this to be my last will and testament. Item. I will that all the debts I justly owe to all manner of persons whatsoever, shall be well and truly paid, or ordained to be paid in convenient time after my decease by my executrix hereafter named, except only the debt thirty schillings which I owe Edward Wanton, which said debt I will that the same be paid by Timothy Williamson in manner and time hereafter expressed.

Item. I give and bequeath unto my son Arthur Howland his heirs and assigns forever, fifty acres of upland and alsoe meddow to sufficient to keep six head of cattle which said land is now in the tenure and occupation of my said son Arthur, and lyeth next to John Moshers land, and runneth from the boundmark that the jury made, which the land of mee the said Arthur Howland and the said John Mosher to the Ridge N.E. and S.W.

Item. I give and bequeath unto my grandchild Amadiah Smith the full sum of five pounds to be paid him by the friends executors administrators and assigns of my dear wife Mary Howland immediately after her decease.

Item. I give and bequeath unto the three brothers of the said Amadiah the sum of five pounds to be equally divided among them, and to be payd unto them by the persons appointed administrators or executors of my said wife immediately after my decease, and should any of the said children die before my said wife, my will is that the five pounds shall be equally divided betwixt the rest of them.

Item. I give and bequeath unto my daughter Mary Williamson, the sum of ten pounds to be payed her by the heires executors administrators or assigns of my said wife immediately after her decease.

Item. I give and bequeath unto my daughter Martha Damon, the sum of ten pounds to be payed her by the heires executors administrators or assigns of my said wife immediately after her decease.

Item. I give and bequeath unto my daughter Elizabeth Low the sum of ten pounds to be payed her by the heires executors administrators or assigns of my said wife immediately after her decease.

Item. I give and bequeath unto my grandchild Mary Walker the sum of ten pounds to be payed her by the heires executors administrators or assigns of my said wife immediately after her decease.

Item. I give and bequeath unto my grandchild Timothy Williamson his heires and assigns forever after my said wifes decease a piece of meddow in the township of Marshfield above said, containing five acres, that lyeth between a certain creek that runs out of the river there and a great rock that stands in the grass, hee paying unto Edward Wanton his executors or assigns for the term of three years, the next after he comes to enjoy the said meddow the sum of ten shillings.

Item. I give and bequeath the full remainder of real and personal estate whatever it is or wherever it may be found unto my dear and noble souled wife Margaret Howland, and to her executors administrators and assigns forever.

And doe hereby constitute and appoint my wife sole executrix of this my last will and testament in witness thereof I the said Arthur Howland have here unto sett my hand and seal the third day of July in the year of our Lord one thousand six hundred seventy and four. Anno, Regni, Regus, Secundiment Langlea 26. ARTHUR HOWLAND, Senor. and a seal. Signed sealed and published by Arthur Howland as his last will and testament in the presence of us. (Witness names are not plain) And was att time of the ensealing acknowledged before Josiah Winslow. Mem. That before signing this will by the testator hee revoked the bequeath of five acres of meddow, alsoe of meddow intended to have been given to his grandchild Timothy Williamson."

His widow's will was dated 19 January 1683, sworn 5 March 1683/4 and mentioned grandson, John Walker; three grandchildren, sons of my son Arther: Ebenezer, Thomas and Arthur (not yet 21); residue to my son Arther Howland. Inventoried 25 January 1683.

Unlocking Your Ancestry: The Importance of Y-DNA Testing in Genealogy

Y-DNA testing is a revolutionary tool for genealogists, allowing individuals to trace their paternal lineage and confirm family connections through genetic markers. By analyzing specific regions of the Y chromosome, which is passed down from father to son, researchers can uncover insights about their ancestry and connect with distant relatives. This guide will help you understand the significance of Y-DNA testing and how it can enhance your genealogical research.

Genetic Insights into the Howland Family: Unraveling Lineage through SNP Analysis

The confirmed DNA results from four Big Y-700 tests reveal that Arthur Howland's haplogroup and SNP (single nucleotide polymorphism) is R-FT62874. A haplogroup is a group of similar DNA sequences that share a common ancestor, while SNPs are variations in a single nucleotide that can indicate genetic differences. Arthur's haplotree line is R-M269 >> R-U106 >> R-Z8 > R-Z1 > R-Z344 > R-Z6 > R-A96 > R-S10415 > R-A9701 > R-A9703 > R-A9708 > R-FT62874.[40]

Four Howland male testers share two Y-DNA SNPs, identified as FT62411 and FT62874, at the R-FT62874 block level on the Y haplotree, as reported by FamilyTreeDNA. Understanding these SNPs can help genealogists trace their lineage and confirm familial connections, making it easier to build a more accurate family tree.

For example, if you are a descendant of Arthur Howland, these SNPs can help you connect with other Howland descendants and verify your family history. This is especially valuable for those who may have lost track of their lineage over generations.

These unique SNPs emerged after the birth of Arthur Howland and are passed through his only son, Arthur Howland, Jr., and his male descendants. Notably, additional unique SNPs have arisen through the sons of Arthur Howland, Jr.[40] This information is crucial for genealogists looking to establish connections between different branches of the Howland family.

The SNPs FT62411 and FT62874 are confirmed by the Big Y test results of three individuals descended from Arthur Howland. In contrast, two individuals descended from Henry Howland, Jr., and two individuals descended from John Howland do not have these unique SNPs in their results.[10] Officially, these two SNPs are now grouped into a new subclade of R-FT62874 under the clade of R-A9708.

These SNPs help identify four generations: Arthur, Arthur, Jr., Thomas, and Samuel. Their presence confirms the genetic relationship between Samuel Howland's two sons, Thomas Howland and Caleb Howland, providing valuable evidence for genealogical research.

Stable STR Mutation in Arthur Howland's Descendants Over 400 Years

Four male descendants of Arthur Howland have shared a specific Short Tandem Repeat (STR) mutation in the 1-37 STR panel from Family Tree DNA (FTDNA): DYS464a=16. STRs are sequences in DNA that repeat and can vary among individuals, making them useful for genealogical research.

DYS464a is known for its relatively fast mutation rate, which typically allows for changes within genealogical time frames. Remarkably, this particular marker has not changed for about 400 years among the Howland descendants. It remains uncertain whether the value of 16 at DYS464a represents an ancestral or derived state. However, it appears that the value changed from 15 to 16 at some point between Arthur Howland and his grandson.

Understanding whether this mutation is ancestral (original to the lineage) or derived (a new mutation) can provide insights into the family's genetic history and migration patterns. This stability over centuries suggests a strong genetic continuity within the Howland lineage, which may have implications for genealogical research and the study of familial connections.

For further exploration, a visual representation of the Howland family tree and the mutation timeline could enhance comprehension of this genetic relationship.

Confirming Paternal Relationships

The paternal relationship is further validated through Y-chromosome DNA STR (Short Tandem Repeat) and SNP testing. STRs are regions of DNA that can vary in length and are useful for determining relationships over shorter time frames. They share the haplogroup R-A9708, as reported by FamilyTreeDNA, confirming their direct paternal lines back to their most recent common ancestor, Henry Howland, Sr.

Join the Journey: Participate in Y-DNA Testing

We invite any male descendants of Arthur Howland to consider taking the Y-DNA SNP test at FamilyTreeDNA. Participating in this test can provide you with valuable insights into your lineage, help you connect with other relatives, and contribute to the broader understanding of the Howland family history. Imagine discovering unknown relatives or confirming family stories that have been passed down through generations!

For more information, visit the Howland (Y-DNA) page from the Mayflower DNA Project and The Howland DNA Project from FamilyTreeDNA. You can also join online forums and groups dedicated to the Howland family to connect with others who share your interests.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Y-DNA testing offers a unique opportunity for genealogists to explore their ancestry and confirm familial connections. By participating in Y-DNA testing, you can uncover valuable insights about your lineage, connect with distant relatives, and contribute to the broader understanding of your family history. Whether you are just starting your genealogical journey or looking to deepen your existing research, Y-DNA testing can provide the clarity and connections you seek.

We encourage you to take the next step in your genealogical exploration. By engaging with the Howland family projects and participating in Y-DNA testing, you can help build a more comprehensive picture of your ancestry and contribute to the collective knowledge of the Howland lineage. Together, we can uncover the stories of our ancestors and preserve their legacies for future generations.

If you have any questions or need assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out to fellow genealogists or the resources available through the Howland family projects. Your journey into the past awaits!

Research Notes

Identification of Arthur Howland

It is possible that Arthur Howland of this profile is identical to Arthur Howland, who was one of the recusants who willfully absented themselves from the Church of England. He was procceeded against indictment for recusancy. Here is the list as follows:

• On 27 May 1624, Arthur Houland, glover, late of Finsbury.[43]
• On 2 October 1624, Arthur Howland, glover, and his wife Mary Howland, both of Finsbury.[44]
• On 4 October 1632, Arthur Howland, yeoman, of Grub Street.[45]
• On 2 May 1633, Arthur Howland, yeoman, of Golding Lane.[45]

Between 1624 and 1633, his three different residences at Finsbury, Grub Street, and Golding Lane are clearly near this parish of St. Giles Cripplegate, London, where his family burials are recorded between 1616 and 1639, and his occupation (glover, leather dresser) is given in those. Glovers' Hall used to be at EC2, Barbican - Cromwell Highwalk near this parish of St. Giles Cripplegate. The burial record shows his wife Grace was buried there on 4 December 1635, with a marginal note “Excomuni,” suggesting either she or her husband (or both) had been excommunicated. The names of some of his children that were buried (Azariell, Zoheth) hint he may have taken on some religious viewpoints that differed from the Church of England, which the excommunication record would seem to further confirm.

Arthur Howland, glover, who was indicted for recusancy, is identical to Arthur Howland, glover or leather dresser, who buried his family at St. Giles Cripplegate. Look at the Agas Map of the early modern London online to locate St. Giles Cripplegate and his residences on three different streets. The proximity and propinquity principles can allow to tie him to Arthur Howland.

Sources

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2. Great Migration Begins: Immigrants to N.E. 1620-1633, Vols. I-III, pg 1023 of 2386, The Great Migration Begins: Immigrants to New England 1620-1633, Volumes I-III. (Online database: AmericanAncestors.org, New England Historic Genealogical Society, 2010), (Originally Published as: New England Historic Genealogical Society. Robert Charles Anderson, The Great Migration Begins: Immigrants to New England 1620-1633, Volumes I-III, 3 vols., 1995).
3. "Ancestry of the Pilgrim John Howland," in Howland Quarterly, Pilgrim John Howland Society, Inc.; 1937, v.1, no.3; p.1.
4. The Howland Quarterly, Pilgrim John Howland Society, Inc.; v.2, no.2, 1938; p. (back page).
5. Institute of Historical Research. “Event Details of Humphrey Howland.” Records of London's Livery Companies Online, Institute of Historical Research, 2018, https://www.londonroll.org/event/?company=drp&event_id=DREW8574.
6. Institute of Historical Research. “Event Details of Humphrey Howland.” Records of London's Livery Companies Online, Institute of Historical Research, 2018, https://www.londonroll.org/event/?company=drp&event_id=DREW8575.
7. Institute of Historical Research. “Event Details of Humphrey Howland.” Records of London's Livery Companies Online, Institute of Historical Research, 2018, https://www.londonroll.org/event/?company=drp&event_id=DREW8576.
8. Institute of Historical Research. “Event Details of Humphrey Howland.” Records of London's Livery Companies Online, Institute of Historical Research, 2018, https://www.londonroll.org/event/?company=drp&event_id=DREW8578.
9. Institute of Historical Research. “Event Details of Humphrey Howland.” Records of London's Livery Companies Online, Institute of Historical Research, 2018, https://www.londonroll.org/event/?company=drp&event_id=DREW8577.
10. Howland DNA Project. Family TreeDNA, FamilyTreeDNA.com, 2020.
11. Robert S. Wakefield, and Robert M. Sherman, "Arthur Howland of Plymouth, Mass., 1640," in National Genealogical Society Quarterly, Vol. 71 (1987): 84 - 93. Text: "It would appear likely, based on a deed of 1663 (see below), that the marriage occurred while Arthur and Margaret were still in England, and hence before 1640; but no supporting evidence has yet been found. Although Davis claims she must have been Howland's second wife, he provides no evidence and the authors have found nothing to indicate this in Plymouth Colony. Unfortunately we have no evidence to show that all of Arthur's children were born to Margaret, only for sure the youngest, Arthur Jr., but perhaps some or all of the others. In any event, Margaret married, first, probably in England, [_?_] Walker, by whom she had at least one child before 1628."
12. Ancestry.com. London, England, Church of England Baptisms, Marriages and Burials, 1538-1812 [database on-line]. Provo, UT, USA: Ancestry.com Operations, Inc., 2010. Original data: Church of England Parish Registers, 1538-1812. London, England: London Metropolitan Archives. Reference Number: P69/GIS/A/002/MS06419/003. Saint Giles Cripplegate, 1634-46 https://www.ancestry.com/interactive/1624/31281_a101525-00012.
13. Mayflower Descendant, XVIII: 87.
14. Massachusetts and Maine Families in the Ancestry of Walter Goodwin Davis, Vol. II. Gardner - Moses. Baltimore, Maryland: Genealogical Publishing Co., Inc., 1996, p. 296.
15. Records of Plymouth Colony, II:57.
16. Massachusetts and Maine Families in the Ancestry of Walter Goodwin Davis, Vol. II. Gardner - Moses. Baltimore, Maryland: Genealogical Publishing Co., Inc., 1996, p. 295.
17. Wakefield & Sherman, "Arthur Howland of Plymouth, Mass., 1640, His Wife Margaret (_____) Walker, and Their Children," NGSQ (June 1983): 71:85.
18. Wakefield & Sherman, "Henry Howland of Duxbury, Massachusetts 1633, his children and grandchildren," NGSQ, (June 1987): 75:105.
19. Wakefield & Sherman, "Arthur Howland of Plymouth, Mass., 1640, His Wife Margaret (_____) Walker, and Their Children," NGSQ (June 1983): 71:84.
20. Records of the colony of New Plymouth in New England : printed by order of the legislature of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Vol II, pg 174 Published 1855, by New Plymouth Colony; Shurtleff, Nathaniel Bradstreet, 1810-1874; Pulsifer, David, 1802-1894, [Link is to Vol 1 & Vol 2 together]: https://archive.org/stream/recordsofcolonyo0102newp#page/174/mode/2...
21. Records of the colony of New Plymouth in New England : printed by order of the legislature of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, by New Plymouth Colony, Vol III; Shurtleff, Nathaniel Bradstreet, 1810-1874; Pulsifer, David, 1802-1894, pg 124, [Link is to Vol III & Vol IV] https://archive.org/stream/recordsofcolonyo0304newp#page/n137/mode/2up
22. Records of the colony of New Plymouth, in New England, W. White Publisher, page 151, https://archive.org/stream/recordscolonyne03courgoog#page/n168/mode...
23. Massachusetts Land Records, 1620-1986, images, FamilySearch (https://familysearch.org/ark:/61903/3:1:3QS7-89Z7-5CXF : 22 May 2014), Plymouth County, Registry of Deeds, Deeds Vol. 1, 1620-1651, Part 2, p. 245, image 166 of 239; Plymouth County courthouse and clerk office, Massachusetts.
24. Thomas Lechford, Edward Hale (ed.), Note-Book Kept by Thomas Lechford, Esq., Lawyer, in Boston, Massachusetts Bay, from June 27, 1638, to July 29, 1641 (Cambridge, 1885), 297-299, original mss. pp. 168-9.
25. Nathaniel B. Shurtleff and David Pulsifer, Records of the Colony of New Plymouth (Boston, 1855-1861), 1:165.
26. Nathaniel B. Shurtleff and David Pulsifer, Records of the Colony of New Plymouth (Boston, 1855-1861), 2:34.
27. Plymouth County Records 2:77-78; see also Plymouth County Records 7:38, 12:109-10, 139-40.
28. Plymouth County Records 12:151-152.
29. Shurtleff, Nathaniel B, and David Pulsifer. Records of the Colony of New Plymouth, in New England. "Court Orders: Vol. III. 1651-1661." Boston: Press of W. White, 1855. Print, p. 71, 72 , 73.
30. Records of the colony of New Plymouth in New England : printed by order of the legislature of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, by New Plymouth Colony, Vol III; Shurtleff, Nathaniel Bradstreet, 1810-1874; Pulsifer, David, 1802-1894, p. 124, [Link is to Vol III & Vol IV].
31. Shurtleff, Nathaniel B, and David Pulsifer. Records of the Colony of New Plymouth, in New England. "Court Orders: Vol. III. 1651-1661. Boston: Press of W. White, 1855. Print, p. 124, 125.
32. Shurtleff, Nathaniel B, and David Pulsifer. Records of the Colony of New Plymouth, in New England. "Court Orders: Vol. III. 1651-1661. Boston: Press of W. White, 1855. Print, p. 125.
33. The Mayflower Descendant, Vol. 2, p. 181.
34. Massachusetts, Town Clerk, Vital and Town Records, 1626-2001, database with images, FamilySearch (https://familysearch.org : 20 May 2014), Plymouth County, Marshfield, Births, Marriages, Deaths, Town Records, 1645-1733, image 126 of 147; Marshfield town clerk office, Massachusetts. Text: "Arthur Howland Senior was Buried the 30. of october 1675."
35. Parish registers of St. Giles Cripplegate, London (original images available on Ancestry.com).
36. Johnson, Caleb H. Henry Howland of Fenstanton, Huntingdonshire: Father of Mayflower Passenger John Howland. The Pilgrim John Howland Society (www.pjhs.starchapter.com), 2016, https://pjhs.starchapter.com/images/downloads/henry_howland_of_fens....
37. VR-Scituate, 154.
38. VR-Marshfield, 10.
39. Johnson, Caleb, ed., “Sufferings at Plymouth,” Mayflower Descendant, 62(2013):167-185.
40. General Society of Mayflower Descendants. “Mayflower: Official Project of General Society of Mayflower Descendants (GSMD).” FamilyTreeDNA, FamilyTreeDNA.com, 2019, www.familytreedna.com/groups/mayflowersociety/about. Mayflower DNA Project - Y-DNA Colorized Chart.
41. Block Tree. Family TreeDNA, Family TreeDNA.com, 2020.
42. Family TreeDNA. Howland DNA Project - Y-DNA Colorized Chart, 2020.
43. "Items from the two Process Books: Temp. James I." Middlesex County Records: Volume 2, 1603-25. Ed. John Cordy Jeaffreson. London: Middlesex County Record Society, 1887. 234-238. British History Online. Web. 21 September 2023. http://www.british-history.ac.uk/middx-county-records/vol2/pp234-238.
44. "Items from the two Process Books: Temp. James I." Middlesex County Records: Volume 2, 1603-25. Ed. John Cordy Jeaffreson. London: Middlesex County Record Society, 1887. 234-238. British History Online. Web. 21 September 2023. http://www.british-history.ac.uk/middx-county-records/vol2/pp234-238.
45. "Particulars from the Process Book: 1631-41." Middlesex County Records: Volume 3, 1625-67. Ed. John Cordy Jeaffreson. London: Middlesex County Record Society, 1888. 128-159. British History Online. Web. 21 September 2023. http://www.british-history.ac.uk/middx-county-records/vol3/pp128-159.
46. "Records of the Colony of New Plymouth in New England," 12 vols., (Boston: Press of W. White, 1855-61), 1:4; images, "Hathitrust," (https://catalog.hathitrust.org/Record/006784512 : accessed 12 Mar 2023).

See also:

• Davis, Walter Goodwin, "The Ancestry of Annis Spear, 1775-1858, of Litchfield, Maine. Portland, Maine: Southworth-Anthoensen Press (1945) pp. 104, 105-107, for further information on the Arthur Howland.
• Wakefield and Sherman, "Arthur Howland of Plymouth, Mass., 1640, His Wife Margaret (____) Walker, and Their Children," National Genealogical Society Quarterly 71 (June 1983): 84-93.
• Robert Charles Anderson, "Henry Howland", in The Great Migration Begins: Immigrants to New England 1620-1633, Vol II, Boston: New England Historic Genealogical Society (1995) pp. 1016 - 1022.
• Church of England Parish Registers, 1538-1812. London, England: London Metropolitan Archives. Images produced by permission of the City of London Corporation Libraries.
• William Richard Cutter, Genealogy - Boston and Eastern Massachusetts, New York: Lewis Historical Publishing Company (1908).
• P. William Filby, ed., Passenger and Immigration Lists Index, 1500s-1900s, Farmington Hills, MI, USA: Gale Research (2010)
• Find a Grave, database and images (https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/22052315/arthur-howland : accessed 24 September 2021), memorial page for Arthur Howland (1591–30 Oct 1675), Find a Grave Memorial ID 22052315, citing Old Winslow Burying Ground, Marshfield, Plymouth County, Massachusetts, USA; Maintained by Scrib & Barb Kelly (contributor 46884407).
• Godfrey Memorial Library, American Genealogical-Biographical Index, Middletown, CT, USA: Godfrey Memorial Library.
• Ron V. Jackson, Massachusetts Census, 1790-1890; Accelerated Indexing Systems, comp., Provo, UT, USA: Ancestry.com Operations Inc, 1999. Compiled and digitized by Mr. Jackson and AIS from microfilmed schedules of the U.S. Federal Decennial Census, territorial/state censuses, and/or census substitutes.
• Middlesex, England, Extracted Parish Records, Provo, UT, USA: Ancestry.com Operations Inc, 2001. Electronic databases were created from various publications of parish and probate records.
• Pilgrim John Howland Society, The Howland Quarterly.
• Clarence Almon Torrey, "The Howland Ancestry," in The American Genealogist, 14(1937-8:pp 214 - 215. This article cites Boston Evening Transcript, Dec. 16, 1908. 105 - 113.
• Wikitree: Arthur Howland.