Legal Papers of John Adams, volume 3

Chronology Chronology
Chronology
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Chronology
John Adams' Legal Career, 1756–1778

This listing includes a few events of general importance in John Adams' legal career, but it is primarily a chronology of his practice in the courts. Accordingly, each term of the Inferior and Superior Courts at which he is known to have been active is listed, with all available information as to the number of his cases there, whether tried to a conclusion or not. Since the sources are somewhat fragmentary, the information given is necessarily incomplete and varies in its accuracy from term to term. The number of Adams' cases at each term variously appears as (1) the number of writs drawn by him; (2) the number of writs served; (3) the number of entries (cases which he entered on the court's docket); or (4) the number of actions (cases in which he was engaged as counsel at any stage). Adams' appearances in other courts of the Province have ordinarily been listed only when they occurred in cases printed in the present edition.

The title of each Superior Court action which he is known to have argued to the court or tried to a jury appears under the term at which it was argued or tried, with his client's name printed in italics and the result indicated. All cases in which a discontinuance or default was entered are included in this listing, because these procedural steps often concealed the argument and decision of a legal question. A few important cases from other courts have also been listed in this fashion. Those cases printed in the Legal Papers (Nos. 1–64) are listed in capital letters under the courts to which each document printed in those cases has been attributed, again with Adams' clients' names italicized. Primary sources for the chronology include the Diary and Autobiography of John Adams, vols. 1–4; the Adams Family Correspondence , vols. 1–2; minute books and files of the several courts; and Adams' docket lists, Office Book, and other office documents in the Adams Papers. (The reader should, of course, realize that the court terms, although designated by months—e.g., “March Term”—were not always chronologically coterminous with the month in question. Thus, cases in the March Term might be heard in April, or even later.)

1756 August Signs contract to read law with James Putnam of Worcester for two years.
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1758 October Returns from Worcester to live at Braintree.
1758 November Suffolk Inferior Court. Admitted to practice.
1758 December Coram Josiah Quincy, justice of the peace. Field v. Lambert (his first writ is abated).
1759 Keeps Commonplace Book (Vol. 1:4–25).
1759 July Suffolk Inferior Court (at least 2 writs drawn). Field v. Thayer (his first Inferior Court entry; “nonsuit, no defendant”).
1760 Drafts essays on appointment of new chief justice and evils of licensed houses. Attacks “pettyfoggers” (unauthorized practitioners of law).
1760 April Suffolk Inferior Court (at least 3 writs drawn).
1760 July Suffolk Inferior Court (at least 9 writs drawn).
1760 October Suffolk Inferior Court (at least 7 writs drawn).
1761 January Suffolk Inferior Court (at least 10 writs drawn and one defendant's action; 8 entries for the year).
1761 February Suffolk Superior Court. Lambard v. Tirrell (first Superior Court action; complaint for affirmation).
1761 February Suffolk Superior Court. Petition of Lechmere, No. 44, Doc. I (takes minutes of James Otis' argument against writs of assistance).
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1761 March Involved in Braintree highway problems.
1761 April Drafts “abstract” of writs of assistance arguments (see No. 44, Doc. II).
1761 April Suffolk Inferior Court (at least 2 writs drawn).
1761 July Suffolk Inferior Court (at least 7 writs drawn).
1761 October Suffolk Inferior Court (at least 9 writs drawn).
1761 November Suffolk Superior Court (adjournment). Admitted as an attorney.
1762 January Suffolk Inferior Court (at least 18 writs drawn; 36 entries for the year).
1762 March Begins serving on committees for the sale of town lands.
1762 April Suffolk Inferior Court (at least 9 writs drawn).
1762 June Bristol Inferior Court (his first known term of court outside Suffolk County).
1762 July Suffolk Inferior Court (40 writs drawn).
1762 August Suffolk Superior Court (at least 1 action). Called as a barrister.
1762 October Suffolk Inferior Court (at least 21 writs drawn).
1763 January Suffolk Inferior Court (36 actions; 79 entries for the year).
1763 February Suffolk Superior Court (at least 2 actions).
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1763 April Suffolk Inferior Court (at least 11 writs drawn).
1763 July Suffolk Inferior Court (at least 14 writs drawn).
1763 August Suffolk Superior Court (at least 5 actions).
1763 October Suffolk Inferior Court (at least 19 writs drawn).
1764 January Suffolk Inferior Court (40 writs drawn; 21 entries; 43 entries for the year).
1764 February Suffolk Superior Court (at least 4 actions). Alden v. Nightingale (chancery for Alden).
1764 April Suffolk Inferior Court (at least 24 writs served).
1764 April Plymouth Inferior Court (at least 1 action).
1764 June Bristol Inferior Court (4 actions).
1764 July Suffolk Inferior Court (at least 25 writs served).
1764 July Plymouth Inferior Court (13 actions).
1764 August Suffolk Superior Court (at least 1 action). Daniels v. Smith (plea in abatement for Smith).
1764 September Bristol Inferior Court (5 actions).
1764 October Suffolk Inferior Court (at least 20 writs served).
1764 October Plymouth Inferior Court (11 actions).
1764 October Bristol Superior Court (3 actions). Wheat v. Witherel (jury for Witherel).
1764 October Bristol Superior Court (3 actions). Harvey v. Brittan (reffered to JA and two others).
1764 December Bristol Inferior Court (3 actions).
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1765 January Joins Jeremiah Gridley's “sodality,” a small group meeting in Boston for the study of legal history and theory.
1765 January Suffolk Inferior Court (at least 34 writs served; 73 entries for the year).
1765 January Plymouth Inferior Court (10 actions).
1765 March Elected surveyor of highways in Braintree.
1765 March Suffolk Superior Court (at least 5 actions).
1765 March Suffolk Superior Court (at least 5 actions). Ingersole v. Viscount (referred to JA and two other lawyers).
1765 March Suffolk Superior Court (at least 5 actions). Bacon v. Hall (jury for Hall).
1765 March Suffolk Superior Court (at least 5 actions). Flagg v. Ritchie (jury for Ritchie).
1765 April Plymouth Inferior Court (9 actions).
1765 April Suffolk Inferior Court (at least 31 writs served).
1765 May Bristol Inferior Court (3 actions).
1765 May Plymouth Superior Court (1 action).
1765 June Pownalborough Inferior Court First trip into Maine.
1765 July Plymouth Inferior Court (8 actions).
1765 July Suffolk Inferior Court (at least 39 writs served).
1765 August Bristol Inferior Court (8 actions).
1765 August Suffolk Superior Court (8 actions). Johnson v. Hewes (jury for Johnson).
1765 August Suffolk Superior Court (8 actions). Hale v. Hurd (jury for Hurd).
1765 August Suffolk Superior Court (8 actions). Hale v. Ivers (jury for Ivers).
1765 August Suffolk Superior Court (8 actions). Adams v. Ingraham (jury for Ingraham).
1765 August Suffolk Superior Court (8 actions). Richards v. Tyler (Tyler discontinues).
1765 August Reference from Barnstable and Dukes County Superior Court. At Martha's Vineyard. BASSETT v. MAYHEW, No. 1, Docs. I, II (report for Mayhew et al.).
1765 August–October Publishes “A Dissertation on the Canon and Feudal Law” (a paper earlier prepared for the “sodality”) in three installments in the Boston Gazette.
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1765 September Composes the Braintree Instructions, denouncing the Stamp Act.
1765 October Suffolk Inferior Court (at least 30 writs served).
1765 October Plymouth Inferior Court (10 actions).
1765 October Bristol Superior Court (2 actions).
1765 December Argues for Boston before the Governor and Council that the courts be reopened without stamped paper.
1766 January Publishes “Clarendon” letters in the Boston Gazette asserting American rights under the British Constitution.
1766 March Elected a Braintree selectman.
1766 April Plymouth Inferior Court (10 actions). WADSWORTH v. LORING, No. 34, Doc. I (jury for Wadsworth; appeal).
1766 April Suffolk Inferior Court (at least 22 writs served; 22 actions; 62 entries for the year).
1766 May Bristol Inferior Court (3 actions).
1766 May Plymouth Superior Court (11 actions). Belcher v. Hunt (jury for Hunt).
1766 May Plymouth Superior Court (11 actions). Jones v. Barker (jury for Jones).
1766 May Plymouth Superior Court (11 actions). Robins v. Turner (Robins nonsuited).
1766 May Plymouth Superior Court (11 actions). Brayton v. Gardner (Brayton discontinues).
1766 May Plymouth Superior Court (11 actions). Prince v. Cushing (jury for Cushing).
1766 June Suffolk Superior Court (adjournment; at least 6 actions).
1766 June Suffolk Superior Court (adjournment; at least 6 actions). Hewes v. Johnson (jury for Johnson).
1766 June Suffolk Superior Court (adjournment; at least 6 actions). Brattle v. Murray (jury for Brattle).
1766 June Suffolk Superior Court (adjournment; at least 6 actions). Curtis v. Randall (Randall defaults).
1766 July Plymouth Inferior Court (8 actions).
1766 July Suffolk Inferior Court (at least 16 writs served).
1766 August Bristol Inferior Court (4 actions).
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1766 August Suffolk Superior Court (13 actions). Peck v. Prat (jury for Prat).
1766 August Suffolk Superior Court (13 actions). ROXBUKY v. BOSTON, No. 24 (appeal dismissed).
1766 August Suffolk Superior Court (13 actions). Rutland Proprietors v. Minot (jury for Minot).
1766 August Suffolk Superior Court (13 actions). Pynchon v. Brewster (jury for Pynchon).
1766 August Suffolk Superior Court (13 actions). ALCOCK v. WARDEN, No. 8 (takes minutes).
1766 August Suffolk Superior Court (13 actions). PROUT v. MINOT, No. 13, Doc. II (takes minutes).
1766 October Suffolk Inferior Court (at least 5 writs drawn).
1766 October Plymouth Inferior Court (11 actions). PLYMPTON v. MIDDLEBORO, No. 25, Docs. I, II (judgment for Middleboro).
1766 October Bristol Superior Court (3 actions). Stetson v. Davis (jury for Davis).
1766 November Essex Superior Court SLEW v. WHIPPLE, No. 38, Docs. I, II (takes minutes).
1766 December Plymouth Inferior Court (5 actions).
1767 January Suffolk Inferior Court (at least 17 writs drawn; 59 entries for the year).
1767 March Suffolk Inferior Court (7 actions). Harding v. Davis (Harding discontinues).
1767 March Suffolk Inferior Court (7 actions). Kellock v. Morse (jury for Morse).
1767 April Barnstable Inferior Court (25 actions). COTTON v. NYE, No. 3, Docs. II , III (jury for Cotton; appeal).
1767 April Plymouth Inferior Court (2 actions).
1767 April Suffolk Inferior Court (at least 8 writs drawn).
1767 May Barnstable and Dukes County Superior Court (4 actions). COTTON v. NYE, No. 3, Docs. IV, V, VI (jury for Cotton; motion in arrest of judgment).
1767 May Plymouth Superior Court (16 actions). Morse v. Rochester (jury for Morse).
1767 May Plymouth Superior Court (16 actions). Woodworth v. Haden (jury for Woodworth).
1767 May Plymouth Superior Court (16 actions). Latham v. Turner (Turner defaults).
1767 May Plymouth Superior Court (16 actions). Scot v. Bridgham (jury for Scot).
1767 May Plymouth Superior Court (16 actions). Hickling v. Bridgham (jury for Bridgham).
1767 May Plymouth Superior Court (16 actions). Barker v. Jones (jury for Barker).
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1767 July Plymouth Inferior Court (13 actions).
1767 July Suffolk Inferior Court (at least 14 writs drawn).
1767 August Suffolk Superior Court (27 actions). R. Gibbs v. H. Gibbs (jury for H. Gibbs).
1767 August Suffolk Superior Court (27 actions). Lamson v. Butter (jury for Lamson).
1767 August Suffolk Superior Court (27 actions). Nightingale v. Curtis (jury for Nightingale).
1767 August Suffolk Superior Court (27 actions). Gray v. Cotton (special verdict; continued).
1767 August Suffolk Superior Court (27 actions). Smith v. Noble (jury for Noble).
1767 September Bristol Inferior Court (11 actions).
1767 September Worcester Superior Court (at least 4 actions). Brown v. Tyler (jury for Brown).
1767 September Worcester Superior Court (at least 4 actions). Ward v. Draper (Ward discontinues).
1767 September Worcester Superior Court (at least 4 actions). Green v. Murray (jury for Green).
1767 September Worcester Superior Court (at least 4 actions). King v. Gardiner (jury for Gardiner).
1767 September Barnstable Inferior Court (2 actions).
1767 October Suffolk Inferior Court (at least 10 writs drawn).
1767 October Plymouth Inferior Court (14 actions).
1767 October Bristol Superior Court (8 actions). Hodges v. Gilmore (jury for Hodges).
1767 October Bristol Superior Court (8 actions). Pratt v. Miller (jury for Pratt).
1767 October Bristol Superior Court (8 actions). Reed v. Jones (writ abated).
1767 October Middlesex Superior Court (1 action). Natick v. Winn (jury for Winn).
1767 November Middlesex Inferior Court (12 actions).
1767 December Barnstable Inferior Court (6 actions). WINSLOW v. CLARK, No. 35, Doc. II (jury for Clark).
1767 December Plymouth Inferior Court (16 actions).
1768 January Suffolk Inferior Court (at least 18 writs drawn; 77 entries for the year).
1768 January Vice Admiralty Court. DOANE v. GAGE, No. 43, Docs. I, III, IV (his first known case in Admiralty).
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1768 February Supreme Court of Probate. CLAP'S WILL, No. 15 (represents Samuel Clap et al.; decree for Samuel Clap et al.).
1768 March Declines to stand again for Braintree selectman.
1768 March Suffolk Superior Court (17 actions). Apthorp v. Price (jury for Apthorp).
1768 March Suffolk Superior Court (17 actions). Richmond v. Davis (judgment for Davis).
1768 March Suffolk Superior Court (17 actions). Gay v. Simpson (jury for Gay).
1768 March Suffolk Superior Court (17 actions). Nightingale v. Curtis (jury for Curtis).
1768 March Suffolk Superior Court (17 actions). French v. Bagley (jury for French).
1768 March Suffolk Superior Court (17 actions). Belcher v. Capen (jury for Capen).
1768 March Suffolk Superior Court (17 actions). APTHORP v. GARDINER, No. 9, Doc. IV (takes minutes).
1768 March Middlesex Inferior Court (21 actions). DOUGHERTY v. LITTLE, No. 23 (jury for Dougherty; appeal).
1768 March Middlesex Inferior Court (21 actions). PIERCE v. WRIGHT, No. 36, Doc. II (verdict for Pierce; appeal).
1768 March Vice Admiralty Court. FOLGER v. THE CORNELIA, No. 45, Docs. I–III (decree for Hallowell et al.).
1768 April Moves to the “White House” in Brattle Square, Boston.
1768 April Plymouth Inferior Court (23 actions).
1768 April Suffolk Inferior Court (at least 9 writs drawn).
1768 May Barnstable and Dukes County Superior Court (11 actions). Lovell v. Hamblin (jury for Lovell).
1768 May Barnstable and Dukes County Superior Court (11 actions). Tilden v. Bigford (jury for Tilden).
1768 May Barnstable and Dukes County Superior Court (11 actions). Tilton v. Hilman (jury for Hilman).
1768 May Barnstable and Dukes County Superior Court (11 actions). Baker v. Crocker (jury for Baker).
1768 May Barnstable and Dukes County Superior Court (11 actions). Price v. Cathcart (jury for Cathcart).
1768 May Plymouth Superior Court (16 actions). Belcher v. Hunt (jury for Belcher).
1768 May Plymouth Superior Court (16 actions). Hooper v. Keith (Hooper nonsuited; confesses judgment).
1768 May Plymouth Superior Court (16 actions). Sears v. Davis (jury for Davis).
1768 May Plymouth Superior Court (16 actions). ESSANE v. DOTEY, No. 28, Docs. III, IV (judgment for Essane).
1768 May Middlesex Inferior Court. MARGARET v. MUZZY, No. 40 (writ filed by Jonathan Sewall).
1768 June Writes Instructions to the Boston representatives to the General Court protesting seizure of John Hancock's sloop Liberty.
1768 July Plymouth Inferior Court (5 actions). KEEN v. TURNER, No. 14, Doc. I (jury for Turner; appeal).
1768 July Suffolk Inferior Court (50 actions).
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1768 August Suffolk Superior Court (40 actions). Cotton v. Mollineux (jury for Cotton).
1768 August Suffolk Superior Court (40 actions). Hyslop v. Welch (jury for Hyslop).
1768 August Suffolk Superior Court (40 actions). Tyler v. Story (jury for Tyler).
1768 August Suffolk Superior Court (40 actions). Kingsbury v. Needham (jury for Kingsbury).
1768 August Suffolk Superior Court (40 actions). Quincy v. Glidden (jury for Quincy).
1768 August Suffolk Superior Court (40 actions). Bourn v. Sweetzer (Sweetzer defaults).
1768 August Suffolk Superior Court (40 actions). Paxton v. Story (Story defaults; continued).
1768 August Suffolk Superior Court (40 actions). Greenough v. Welch (Welch defaults).
1768 August Suffolk Superior Court (40 actions). Mollineux v. Cotton (Cotton defaults).
1768 September Middlesex Inferior Court (12 actions). GAGE v. HEADLEY, No. 29 (result unknown).
1768 September Worcester Superior Court (at least 8 actions). Baldwin, appellant at the King's suit (jury for Baldwin).
1768 September Worcester Superior Court (at least 8 actions). Temple v. How (jury for How).
1768 September Worcester Superior Court (at least 8 actions). Jordan v. McIntire (jury for McIntire).
1768 September Worcester Superior Court (at least 8 actions). Jennison v. Stone (jury for Jennison).
1768 September Worcester Superior Court (at least 8 actions). Rex v. Quinn (assigned as counsel; Quinn acquitted of rape and remanded for trial on attempted rape).
1768 September Hampshire and Berkshire Superior Court (at least 2 actions). NEWPORT v. BILLING, No. 39 (jury for Billing).
1768 October Suffolk Inferior Court (27 actions).
1768 October Bristol Superior Court (at least 6 actions). Pope v. Church (jury for Church).
1768 October Bristol Superior Court (at least 6 actions). Hill v. White (3 actions; Hill nonsuited).
1768 October Bristol Superior Court (at least 6 actions). Hathaway v. Strange (special verdict; continued).
1768 October Bristol Superior Court (at least 6 actions). McWharter v. Ingersoll (jury for Ingersoll).
1768 October Middlesex Superior Court (at least 6 actions). Whitney v. Prat (chancery for Whitney; 1d).
1768 October Middlesex Superior Court (at least 6 actions). Wesson v. Brewer (jury for Brewer).
1768 October Middlesex Superior Court (at least 6 actions). Vassall v. Billings (jury for Vassall).
1768 October Middlesex Superior Court (at least 6 actions). Pierce v. Wright (jury for Pierce; motion in arrest of judgment; see No. 36).
1768 October Middlesex Superior Court (at least 6 actions). Sampson v. Sheaf (jury for Sampson).
1768 November Essex Superior Court (at least 4 actions). Peele v. Allen (jury for Allen).
1768 November Essex Superior Court (at least 4 actions). Stacey v. Malcom (jury for Stacey).
1768 November Essex Superior Court (at least 4 actions). Stacey v. Vernon (jury for Stacey).
1768 November Suffolk Court of General Sessions. BROOKLINE v. ROXBURY, No. 27, Docs. I–IV (judgment for Brookline).
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1768 November Vice Admiralty Court. SEWALL v. HANCOCK, No. 46 (libel filed).
1768 November Vice Admiralty Court. DOWSE v. 33 HOGSHEADS, No. 47 (decree of forfeiture).
1768 November Vice Admiralty Court. SHEAFFE v. THE TRITON, No. 48 (takes minutes).
1768 December Vice Admiralty Court. DOWSE v. 19 HOGSHEADS, No. 49 (makes notes).
1768 December Essex Inferior Court. Bancroft v. Lee (judgment for Lee; appeal; see No. 10).
1769 January Suffolk Inferior Court (58 actions).
1769 Spring Moves to Cold (or Cole) Lane, Boston.
1769 March Suffolk Superior Court (at least 37 actions). GILL v. MEIN, No. 5 (jury for Gill; motion for new trial).
1769 March Suffolk Superior Court (at least 37 actions). Gardiner v. North (jury for North).
1769 March Suffolk Superior Court (at least 37 actions). Dorchester Inhabitants v. Randall (jury for Dorchester).
1769 March Suffolk Superior Court (at least 37 actions). Pemberton v. Sparhawk (jury for Sparhawk).
1769 March Suffolk Superior Court (at least 37 actions). Miller v. Vose (Vose defaults; two actions).
1769 March Suffolk Superior Court (at least 37 actions). McCarrell v. Renton (Renton defaults).
1769 March Suffolk Superior Court (at least 37 actions). Lewis v. Jones (jury for Jones).
1769 March Suffolk Superior Court (at least 37 actions). Needham v. Kingsbury (jury for Needham).
1769 March Suffolk Superior Court (at least 37 actions). Elmes v. Cudworth (jury for Cudworth).
1769 March Suffolk Superior Court (at least 37 actions). Johnson v. Leadbetter (jury for Johnson).
1769 March Suffolk Superior Court (at least 37 actions). Gordon v. Stanley (jury for Stanley).
1769 March Suffolk Superior Court (at least 37 actions). Hancock v. Cutler (jury for Hancock).
1769 March Suffolk Superior Court (at least 37 actions). Anthony v. Strong (jury for Strong; verdict set aside by agreement; continued).
1769 March Suffolk Superior Court (at least 37 actions). Petition of Savil (granted).
1769 March Vice Admiralty Court. SEWALL v. HANCOCK, No. 46 (prosecution dropped).
1769 April Middlesex Superior Court (at least 5 actions). Pierce v. Wright (judgment for Pierce in accordance with verdict; see No. 36).
1769 April Middlesex Superior Court (at least 5 actions). Boardman v. Inhabitants of Charlestown (jury for Charlestown).
1769 April Middlesex Superior Court (at least 5 actions). Perry v. Cary (jury for Cary).
1769 April Suffolk Inferior Court (72 actions).
1769 April Suffolk Court of General Sessions. CHELSEA v. BOSTON, No. 26 (petition filed).
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1769 May Writes Instructions for the Boston representatives to the General Court protesting the presence of British troops and the growing power of Admiralty courts.
1769 May Worcester Inferior Court. GREEN v. WASHBURN, No. 37 (jury for Green).
1769 May Plymouth Superior Court (at least 14 actions). Jackson v. Brewster (jury for Brewster).
1769 May Plymouth Superior Court (at least 14 actions). White v. Winsor (jury for Winsor).
1769 May Plymouth Superior Court (at least 14 actions). Northey v. Cashing (jury for Cushing).
1769 May Plymouth Superior Court (at least 14 actions). KEEN v. TURNER, No. 14, Doc. II (jury for Turner).
1769 May Plymouth Superior Court (at least 14 actions). CLAP v. RANDALL, No. 16 (jury for Randall).
1769 May Plymouth Superior Court (at least 14 actions). Bradford v. Foster (jury for Foster).
1769 May Plymouth Superior Court (at least 14 actions). Latham, appellant at the suit of the King (guilty of an assault only).
1769 May Vice Admiralty Court. SURVEYOR GENERAL v. LOGS, No. 54 (decree of forfeiture).
1769 May Vice Admiralty Court. Enters 20 in personam actions under White Pine Acts between May and September.
1769 May Special Court of Admiralty for the Trial of Piracies. REX v. CORBET, No. 56, Docs. I–IV (pleas to the jurisdiction entered; adjourned until June).
1769 May Suffolk Court of General Sessions. REX v. MOISE AND READER, No. 61 (takes minutes).
1769 June Special Court of Admiralty. REX v. CORBET, No. 56, Docs. V, VI (defendants acquitted).
1769 June Essex Superior Court (at least 7 actions).
1769 June Essex Superior Court (at least 7 actions). Bartlett v. White (jury for Bartlett).
1769 June Essex Superior Court (at least 7 actions). BANCROFT v. LEE, No. 10, Doc. I (jury for Bancroft; review).
1769 June Essex Superior Court (at least 7 actions). Malcom v. Stacey; Vernon v. Stacey (referred to JA and three other lawyers).
1769 June Essex Superior Court (at least 7 actions). Bayley v. Swasey (jury for Swasey).
1769 June Essex Superior Court (at least 7 actions). Follansbee v. Pearson (jury for Follansbee).
1769 June Essex Superior Court (at least 7 actions). Thurston v. Pingry (jury for Thurston; see No. 31).
1769 June Cumberland and Lincoln Superior Court (at least 8 actions). Hutchins v. Boynton (jury for Hutchins).
1769 June Cumberland and Lincoln Superior Court (at least 8 actions). Gardiner v. Tyng (jury for Gardiner).
1769 June Cumberland and Lincoln Superior Court (at least 8 actions). Gardiner v. Carlton (jury for Gardiner).
1769 June Cumberland and Lincoln Superior Court (at least 8 actions). Gardiner v. Loring (Gardiner discontinues).
1769 June Cumberland and Lincoln Superior Court (at least 8 actions). Philbrook v. Tyng (Tyng discontinues).
1769 June Cumberland and Lincoln Superior Court (at least 8 actions). Bowdoin v. Springer (jury for Bowdoin).
1769 June Cumberland and Lincoln Superior Court (at least 8 actions). Kennebec Proprietors v. Lovejoy (Proprietors discontinue).
1769 July Suffolk Inferior Court (76 actions).
1769 July Vice Admiralty Court. BUTLER v. THE UNION, No. 50 (libel dismissed).
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1769 August Takes Jonathan Williams Austin and William Tudor into his office as law clerks.
1769 August Suffolk Superior Court (63 actions). Warren v. Green (jury for Warren).
1769 August Suffolk Superior Court (63 actions). Halden v. Bracket (jury for Bracket).
1769 August Suffolk Superior Court (63 actions). Sigourney v. Russell (jury for Sigourney).
1769 August Suffolk Superior Court (63 actions). White v. Ward (jury for White).
1769 August Suffolk Superior Court (63 actions). Russell v. Sigourney (Russell nonsuited).
1769 August Suffolk Superior Court (63 actions). Gill v. Mein (motion for new trial withdrawn; judgment according to verdict; see No. 5).
1769 August Suffolk Superior Court (63 actions). Godfrey v. Macomber (writ of error; affirmed).
1769 August Suffolk Superior Court (63 actions). Anthony v. Strong (jury for Anthony).
1769 August Suffolk Superior Court (63 actions). Russell v. Dupee (jury for Dupee).
1769 August Suffolk Superior Court (63 actions). Hickling v. Holland (jury for Holland).
1769 August Suffolk Superior Court (63 actions). Warren v. Gardiner (jury for Warren).
1769 August Suffolk Superior Court (63 actions). Gardiner v. Roberts (Roberts defaults).
1769 August Suffolk Superior Court (63 actions). McLane v. Allen (jury for McLane).
1769 August Suffolk Superior Court (63 actions). Elmes v. Cudworth (Elmes discontinues).
1769 August Suffolk Superior Court (63 actions). Randall v. Dorchester Proprietors (Randall nonsuited).
1769 August Suffolk Superior Court (63 actions). Hake v. Barret (jury for Barret).
1769 August Suffolk Superior Court (63 actions). W. Torrey v. J. Torrey (directed verdict for J. Torrey).
1769 October Suffolk Inferior Court (85 actions).
1769 October Bristol Superior Court (at least 2 actions).
1769 October Middlesex Superior Court (at least 4 actions). Brooks v. Northe Yarmouth (jury for Brooks).
1769 October Middlesex Superior Court (at least 4 actions). Cutler v. Jones (jury for Jones).
1769 October Middlesex Superior Court (at least 4 actions). Neal v. Bowes (jury for Neal).
1769 October Vice Admiralty Court Arbitration. DOANE v. GAGE, No. 43, Doc. II (result unknown).
1769 November Essex Superior Court (at least 4 actions). LEE v. CROWNINGSHIELD, No. 11 (jury for Lee).
1769 November Essex Superior Court (at least 4 actions). Sutton v. Dole (jury for Dole).
1769 November Essex Superior Court (at least 4 actions). Rex v. Eames (defendants acquitted).
1769 December Suffolk Superior Court (adjournment). REX v. ROSS, No. 60 (takes minutes).
1770 January Suffolk Inferior Court (at least 27 writs drawn; 94 entries for the year).
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1770 February 22 Shooting of Seider boy by Ebenezer Richardson (see No. 59).
1770 March 5 The Boston Massacre.
1770 March Suffolk Superior Court (at least 43 actions). Wingfield v. Bryant (jury for Bryant).
1770 March Suffolk Superior Court (at least 43 actions). Hurst v. Blanchard (2 actions; jury for Hurst).
1770 March Suffolk Superior Court (at least 43 actions). Fisher v. Ames (jury for Ames).
1770 March Suffolk Superior Court (at least 43 actions). Williams v. Ainsley (jury for Williams).
1770 March Suffolk Superior Court (at least 43 actions). Inches v. Langdon (jury for Inches).
1770 March Suffolk Superior Court (at least 43 actions). Loring v. Stewart (2 actions; jury for Loring).
1770 March Suffolk Superior Court (at least 43 actions). Anderson v. Clark (jury for Anderson).
1770 March Suffolk Superior Court (at least 43 actions). Winship v. Corthell (jury for Corthell).
1770 March Suffolk Superior Court (at least 43 actions). L. Tyler v. A. Tyler (jury for L. Tyler).
1770 March Suffolk Superior Court (at least 43 actions). Hirons v. Cudworth (jury for Hirons).
1770 March Suffolk Superior Court (at least 43 actions). Dupee v. Needham (jury for Dupee).
1770 March Suffolk Superior Court (at least 43 actions). Dupee et al. v. Needham (jury for Needham).
1770 March Suffolk Superior Court (at least 43 actions). Russell v. Dupee (Russell discontinues).
1770 March Suffolk Superior Court (at least 43 actions). Rogers v. Green (jury for Green).
1770 March Suffolk Superior Court (at least 43 actions). Greenlaw v. Lawrence (jury for Lawrence).
1770 March Suffolk Superior Court (at least 43 actions). REX v. PRESTON, No. 63, Doc. I (Preston and Wemms et al., No. 64, indicted).
1770 April Middlesex Superior Court (at least 2 actions). Little v. Ivory (jury for Ivory).
1770 April Suffolk Inferior Court (66 writs drawn; 15 defendants' actions).
1770 April Suffolk Superior Court (adjournment). REX v. RICHARDSON, No. 59, Docs. I, II (trial; verdict of guilty; adjournment for sentencing).
1770 May Barnstable and Dukes County Superior Court (at least 1 action). Thomas v. Fuller (jury for Fuller).
1770 May Plymouth Superior Court (at least 2 actions). M. Keene v. L. Keene (jury for L. Keene).
1770 May Plymouth Superior Court (at least 2 actions). Gardner v. Dunbar (jury for Dunbar).
1770 June Elected a representative to the General Court from Boston.
1770 June Essex Superior Court (at least 4 actions). Ober v. Ellis (jury for Ellis).
1770 June Essex Superior Court (at least 4 actions). Lee v. Goodhue (jury for Goodhue).
1770 June Essex Superior Court (at least 4 actions). S. Kent v. J. Kent (jury for J. Kent).
339
1770 July Cumberland and Lincoln Superior Court (at least 11 actions). Falmouth v. Wiswall (2 actions; Falmouth discontinues).
1770 July Cumberland and Lincoln Superior Court (at least 11 actions). Bowdoin v. Branch (jury for Bowdoin).
1770 July Cumberland and Lincoln Superior Court (at least 11 actions). Bailey v. Bodkin (jury for Bailey).
1770 July Cumberland and Lincoln Superior Court (at least 11 actions). Jones v. Cook (jury for Jones).
1770 July Cumberland and Lincoln Superior Court (at least 11 actions). Kennebec Proprietors v. Lovejoy (jury for Lovejoy).
1770 July Suffolk Inferior Court (at least 26 writs drawn).
1770 August Suffolk Superior Court (91 actions). Keen v. Turner (jury for Turner).
1770 August Suffolk Superior Court (91 actions). White v. Weymouth Inhabitants (jury for Weymouth).
1770 August Suffolk Superior Court (91 actions). Robbins v. Boies (chancery for Boies; 1d.; no costs).
1770 August Suffolk Superior Court (91 actions). Winslow v. Man (Man defaults).
1770 August Suffolk Superior Court (91 actions). Bracket v. Gridley (jury for Bracket).
1770 August Suffolk Superior Court (91 actions). Barber v. Annable (Annable defaults).
1770 September Suffolk Superior Court. REX v. RICHARDSON, No. 59, Doc. III (motion for new trial heard).
1770 October Suffolk Inferior Court (42 writs drawn; 6 defendants' actions).
1770 October Bristol Superior Court (at least 7 actions). Hallowell v. Austin (Austin discontinues).
1770 October Bristol Superior Court (at least 7 actions). Smith v. Fish (jury for Smith).
1770 October Bristol Superior Court (at least 7 actions). Richmond v. Walker (Richmond discontinues).
1770 October Bristol Superior Court (at least 7 actions). Smith v. Shearman (Shearman discontinues).
1770 October Bristol Superior Court (at least 7 actions). Hathaway v. Strange (judgment for Strange on special verdict).
1770 October Suffolk Superior Court (adjournment). REX v. PRESTON, No. 63, Docs. II–XIV (Preston acquitted).
1770 October Middlesex Superior Court (at least 3 actions). Muzzy v. Margaret (jury for Margaret; see No. 40).
1770 October Middlesex Superior Court (at least 3 actions). Proctor v. Conant (jury for Conant).
1770 November Essex Superior Court (at least 5 actions). Lee v. Bancroft (withdrawn from the jury; see No. 10).
1770 November Suffolk Superior Court (adjournment). REX v. WEMMS, No. 64, Docs. I–XXV (six defendants acquitted; two, guilty of manslaughter, plead benefit of clergy).
1770 December Moved this year to “another House in Brattle Square.”
340
1771 January Begins to keep PLEADINGS BOOK (Vol. 1:26–86).
1771 January Suffolk Inferior Court (62 writs drawn; 63 actions). LONGMAN v. MEIN, No. 12, Doc. II (2 actions; Mein loses both).
1771 February Suffolk Superior Court (at least 57 actions). Warren v. Apthorp (3 actions; jury for Warren).
1771 February Suffolk Superior Court (at least 57 actions). Bowker v. Willson (Willson defaults).
1771 February Suffolk Superior Court (at least 57 actions). Lloyd v. Monroe (jury for Monroe).
1771 February Suffolk Superior Court (at least 57 actions). Cudworth v. Hirons (jury for Hirons).
1771 February Suffolk Superior Court (at least 57 actions). Cooper v. Williams (jury for Cooper).
1771 February Suffolk Superior Court (at least 57 actions). Lemasne v. Dennie (Lemasne nonsuited).
1771 February Suffolk Superior Court (at least 57 actions). Hayley v. Allen (Allen defaults).
1771 February Suffolk Superior Court (at least 57 actions). Warren v. Swift (Swift discontinues).
1771 February Suffolk Superior Court (at least 57 actions). Winship v. Corthell (Winship nonsuited).
1771 February Suffolk Superior Court (at least 57 actions). Blanchard v. Leonard (jury for Blanchard).
1771 February Suffolk Superior Court (at least 57 actions). Fisher v. Ames (jury for Ames).
1771 February Suffolk Superior Court (at least 57 actions). Taylor v. Perry (jury for Taylor).
1771 February Suffolk Superior Court (at least 57 actions). Gray v. Proctor (jury for Gray).
1771 February Suffolk Superior Court (at least 57 actions). Redman v. McKendry (jury for Redman).
1771 February Suffolk Superior Court (at least 57 actions). J. Prout v. T. Prout (T. Prout discontinues).
1771 February Suffolk Superior Court (at least 57 actions). Keen v. Spear (jury for Keen; continued for judgment).
1771 February Suffolk Superior Court (at least 57 actions). Gridley v. Bracket (jury for Gridley).
1771 February Suffolk Superior Court (at least 57 actions). J. Reed v. Henshaw (jury for Henshaw).
1771 February Suffolk Superior Court (at least 57 actions). D. Reed v. Henshaw (jury for Henshaw).
1771 April Moves back to Braintree, retaining office in Queen (now Court) Street, Boston.
1771 April Middlesex Superior Court (at least 2 actions). JOSSELYNE v. HARRINGTON, No. 30, Doc. III (apparently represented Josselyne; judgment for Josselyne).
1771 April Suffolk Inferior Court (80 writs drawn; 9 defendants' actions).
1771 April Worcester Superior Court (at least 4 actions). Rice v. Bigelow (jury for Rice).
1771 April Worcester Superior Court (at least 4 actions). Pierpont v. Cutler (withdrawn from jury; continued).
1771 April Worcester Superior Court (at least 4 actions). How v. Beaman (jury for Beaman; 1d.).
1771 April Worcester Superior Court (at least 4 actions). Sutton Inhabitants v. Hall (tried in part and continued).
1771 May Plymouth Superior Court (at least 4 actions). Hayden v. Curtis (jury for Curtis).
1771 May Plymouth Superior Court (at least 4 actions). Watson v. Caesar (jury for Caesar).
1771 May Plymouth Superior Court (at least 4 actions). Sears v. Watson (jury for Sears).
1771 May Plymouth Superior Court (at least 4 actions). Haward v. Shurtlif (Shurtlif discontinues).
1771 June Essex Superior Court (at least 6 actions). BURNAM v. MUGFORD, No. 4 (jury for Mugford).
341
1771 June Essex Superior Court (at least 6 actions). Elwell v. Fletcher (jury for Elwell).
1771 June Essex Superior Court (at least 6 actions). Sawyer v. McNeil (jury for McNeil).
1771 June Essex Superior Court (at least 6 actions). LEE v. BANCROFT, No. 10, Doc. II (tried in part and continued).
1771 June Essex Superior Court (at least 6 actions). SMITH v. FULLER, No. 21, Doc. III (tried in part; juror withdrawn; continued).
1771 July Cumberland and Lincoln Superior Court (at least 7 actions). Child v. Freeman (jury for Freeman).
1771 July Cumberland and Lincoln Superior Court (at least 7 actions). J. Tyng v. Gardiner (jury find specially).
1771 July Cumberland and Lincoln Superior Court (at least 7 actions). Tuck v. Morrill (jury for Tuck).
1771 July Cumberland and Lincoln Superior Court (at least 7 actions). Gardiner v. Thompson (jury for Gardiner).
1771 July Cumberland and Lincoln Superior Court (at least 7 actions). Philpot v. Cushing (Philpot discontinues).
1771 July Suffolk Inferior Court (58 writs drawn; 70 actions). GRAY v. PITTS, No. 6, Doc. I (jury for Gray; appeal).
1771 August Suffolk Superior Court (at least 47 actions). Ruggles v. Doane (Ruggles discontinues).
1771 August Suffolk Superior Court (at least 47 actions). Pemberton v. Sparhawk (jury for Pemberton).
1771 August Suffolk Superior Court (at least 47 actions). Curtis v. Hayward (jury for Curtis).
1771 August Suffolk Superior Court (at least 47 actions). Ainsley v. Williams (jury for Ainsley).
1771 August Suffolk Superior Court (at least 47 actions). Longman v. Mein (jury for Longman; see No. 12).
1771 August Suffolk Superior Court (at least 47 actions). Mein v. Wright & Gill (jury for Wright & Gill; see No. 12).
1771 August Suffolk Superior Court (at least 47 actions). Henshaw v. Jackson (jury for Jackson).
1771 August Suffolk Superior Court (at least 47 actions). Henshaw v. Wendell (jury for Wendell).
1771 August Suffolk Superior Court (at least 47 actions). Langdon v. Barber (jury for Barber).
1771 August Suffolk Superior Court (at least 47 actions). Palmes v. Greenleaf (jury for Greenleaf).
1771 August Suffolk Superior Court (at least 47 actions). Dennie v. Reeves (Dennie discontinues).
1771 August Suffolk Superior Court (at least 47 actions). Elmes v. Cudworth (jury for Elmes).
1771 August Suffolk Superior Court (at least 47 actions). Story v. Scollay (chancery for Story).
1771 October Suffolk Inferior Court (35 writs drawn; 60 actions).
1771 October Bristol Superior Court (37 actions). Foreman v. Bollan (special verdict; continued).
1771 October Bristol Superior Court (37 actions). King v. Morey (jury for King).
1771 October Bristol Superior Court (37 actions). Bowers v. White (jury for Bowers).
1771 October Bristol Superior Court (37 actions). Presbury v. Baker (Presbury discontinues).
1771 October Bristol Superior Court (37 actions). Wilbore v. Slade (special verdict; continued).
1771 October Bristol Superior Court (37 actions). Gardiner v. Wheeler (jury for Gardiner).
1771 October Bristol Superior Court (37 actions). Rex v. Mason (Mason acquitted).
1771 October Governor and Council Sitting in Divorce. A. BROADSTREET v. J. BROADSTREET, No. 22 (A. Broadstreet granted decree of divorce from bed and board).
1771 October Middlesex Superior Court (at least 2 actions). Symes v. Hill (jury for Symes).
1771 October Middlesex Superior Court (at least 2 actions). Proprietors of Stow v. Russell (Proprietors discontinue).
342
1771 November Essex Superior Court (at least 10 actions). Harraden v. Gridley (special verdict; continued).
1771 November Essex Superior Court (at least 10 actions). Smith v. Fuller (jury for Smith; see No. 21).
1771 November Essex Superior Court (at least 10 actions). PATCH v. HERRICK, No. 32 (special verdict; continued).
1771 November Essex Superior Court (at least 10 actions). PINGRY v. THURSTON, No. 31 (jury for Thurston).
1771 November Essex Superior Court (at least 10 actions). Danvers v. Putnam (jury for Putnam).
1771 November Essex Superior Court (at least 10 actions). Brown v. Verry (jury for Verry).
1771 November Essex Superior Court (at least 10 actions). LEE v. BANCROFT, No. 10, Doc. III (tried in part and continued).
1771 November Essex Superior Court (at least 10 actions). CAESAR v. TAYLOR, No. 41, Docs. II–IV (tried in part and continued).
1771 December Suffolk Superior Court (adjournment). GRAY v. PITTS, No. 6, Doc. II (jury for Gray).
1772 January Suffolk Inferior Court (60 writs drawn; 68 actions).
1772 February Suffolk Superior Court (76 actions). Warren v. Freeman (jury for Freeman).
1772 February Suffolk Superior Court (76 actions). Paine v. Stevens (jury for Paine).
1772 February Suffolk Superior Court (76 actions). Bannister v. Copley (jury for Copley).
1772 February Suffolk Superior Court (76 actions). Bannister v. Jenkins (jury for Jenkins).
1772 February Suffolk Superior Court (76 actions). Warren v. Apthorp (4 actions; Warren discontinues in 2; jury for Apthorp in 2).
1772 February Suffolk Superior Court (76 actions). Warren v. Hill (jury for Hill).
1772 February Suffolk Superior Court (76 actions). Bowdoin v. Warren (jury for Warren).
1772 February Suffolk Superior Court (76 actions). Kennebec Proprietors v. Goodwin (Proprietors discontinue).
1772 February Suffolk Superior Court (76 actions). J. Green v. G. Green (jury for G. Green).
1772 February Suffolk Superior Court (76 actions). Hill v. Whiting (special verdict; continued; see No. 17).
1772 February Suffolk Superior Court (76 actions). Ruddock v. Snelling (jury for Snelling).
1772 February Suffolk Superior Court (76 actions). Storer v. Green (jury for Green).
1772 February Suffolk Superior Court (76 actions). Hake v. Barret (jury for Hake).
1772 February Suffolk Superior Court (76 actions). BROOKLINE v. ROXBURY, No. 27, Docs. V–VII (judgment for Brookline).
1772 March Suffolk Superior Court. Rex v. Richardson (Richardson pardoned; see No. 59).
1772 April Middlesex Superior Court (at least 2 actions). Haven v. Whitney (jury for Haven).
1772 April Suffolk Inferior Court (33 writs drawn; 69 actions).
343
1772 April Worcester Superior Court (at least 3 actions). Oliver v. Nicholls (jury for Oliver).
1772 April Worcester Superior Court (at least 3 actions). Taylor v. Russell (withdrawn from jury; continued).
1772 May Barnstable and Dukes County Superior Court (at least 2 actions). Doane v. Brown (jury for Doane).
1772 May Barnstable and Dukes County Superior Court (at least 2 actions). Bangs v. Snow (jury for Snow).
1772 May Plymouth Superior Court (at least 7 actions). I. Mackfarland v. Fish (jury for Mackfarland).
1772 May Plymouth Superior Court (at least 7 actions). S. Mackfarland v. Fish (Mackfarland discontinues).
1772 May Plymouth Superior Court (at least 7 actions). Jacobs v. Barker (judgment for Jacobs).
1772 May Plymouth Superior Court (at least 7 actions). Jacobs v. Tillage (special verdict).
1772 May Plymouth Superior Court (at least 7 actions). Watson v. Sears (jury for Sears).
1772 May Plymouth Superior Court (at least 7 actions). Colden v. Stockbridge (special verdict; continued).
1772 May Plymouth Superior Court (at least 7 actions). Watson v. Bartlet (jury for Watson).
1772 June Essex Superior Court (at least 4 actions). Patch v. Herrick (judgment for Patch; see No. 32).
1772 June Essex Superior Court (at least 4 actions). TAYLOR v. CAESAR, No. 41, Docs. V, VI (jury for Caesar).
1772 July Cumberland and Lincoln Superior Court (at least 2 actions). Elder v. Trott (jury for Trott).
1772 July Reference from Essex Superior Court WILKINS v. FULLER, No. 20, Doc. II (takes minutes and perhaps represents Wilkins; report that neither owes anything).
1772 July Suffolk Inferior Court (54 writs drawn; 12 defendants' actions).
1772 August Suffolk Superior Court (85 actions). E. Fales v. J. Fales (jury for J. Fales).
1772 August Suffolk Superior Court (85 actions). HILL v. WHITING, No. 17, Docs. I, II (judgment for Hill on special verdict).
1772 August Suffolk Superior Court (85 actions). EMMONS v. BREWER, No. 33 (judgment for Brewer).
1772 August Suffolk Superior Court (85 actions). Green v. Gridley (jury for Green).
1772 August Suffolk Superior Court (85 actions). Williams v. Champney (Champney discontinues).
1772 August Suffolk Superior Court (85 actions). Dennie v. Reeve (jury for Reeve).
1772 August Suffolk Superior Court (85 actions). Green v. Warren (special verdict; continued).
1772 August Suffolk Superior Court (85 actions). Crooks v. Holbrook (Holbrook defaults).
1772 August Suffolk Superior Court (85 actions). Burdett v. Philips (Burdett defaults).
1772 August Suffolk Superior Court (85 actions). Ruddock v. Hall (jury for Hall).
1772 August Suffolk Superior Court (85 actions). Billings v. Wheatley (jury for Billings).
1772 August Suffolk Superior Court (85 actions). Richards v. Heakley (jury for Richards).
1772 August Suffolk Superior Court (85 actions). Doane v. Emmes (jury for Doane).
1772 August Suffolk Superior Court (85 actions). Gay v. Richards (special verdict; continued).
1772 August Suffolk Superior Court (85 actions). Hooton v. Grout (judgment for Grout).
1772 August Suffolk Superior Court (85 actions). Adams v. Hamilton (judgment for Hamilton).
344
1772 September Worcester Superior Court (at least 2 actions). Cutler v. Pierpont (jury for Cutler).
1772 September Worcester Superior Court (at least 2 actions). Bradshaw v. Harrington (jury for Bradshaw).
1772 October Suffolk Inferior Court (41 writs drawn; 3 defendants' actions).
1772 October Bristol Superior Court (13 actions). White v. Hathaway (jury for Hathaway).
1772 October Bristol Superior Court (13 actions). Jones v. Hathaway (jury for Hathaway).
1772 October Bristol Superior Court (13 actions). Godfrey v. Williams (jury for Godfrey).
1772 October Bristol Superior Court (13 actions). Paddleford v. Godfrey (jury for Godfrey).
1772 October Bristol Superior Court (13 actions). Pinkham v. Deane (jury for Deane).
1772 October Bristol Superior Court (13 actions). Morey v. Fillebrown (jury for Morey).
1772 October Bristol Superior Court (13 actions). Wilbore v. Slade (judgment for Slade).
1772 October Bristol Superior Court (13 actions). Burt v. Williams (jury for Burt).
1772 October Middlesex Superior Court (at least 1 action). Child v. Smith (jury for Smith).
1772 November Moves with family to Queen Street in Boston.
1772 November Essex Superior Court (at least 5 actions). LEE v. BANCROFT, No. 10, Docs. IV, V (after argument, Bancroft defaults).
1772 November Essex Superior Court (at least 5 actions). Sawyer v. Pecker (judgment for Pecker).
1772 November Essex Superior Court (at least 5 actions). PORTER v. STEEL, No. 7, Docs. I, II (jury for Porter).
1772 November Essex Superior Court (at least 5 actions). Marston v. Coombs (Coombs' plea in abatement overruled; continued).
1773 January–February Publishes articles in the Boston Gazette answering William Brattle and opposing Crown salaries for Superior Court judges.
1773 January–February Suffolk Inferior Court (82 writs drawn; 11 defendants' actions).
1773 February Suffolk Superior Court (70 actions). Minot v. Prince (jury for Minot).
1773 February Suffolk Superior Court (70 actions). Vernon v. Manley (jury for Manley).
1773 February Suffolk Superior Court (70 actions). McKendry v. Redman (jury for Redman).
1773 February Suffolk Superior Court (70 actions). Robins v. Young (jury for Young).
1773 February Suffolk Superior Court (70 actions). Williams v. Curtis (jury for Williams).
1773 February Suffolk Superior Court (70 actions). Hall v. Needham (jury for Hall).
1773 February Suffolk Superior Court (70 actions). Baker v. Porter (judgment for Porter).
1773 February Suffolk Superior Court (70 actions). REX v. BELL, No. 62 (takes minutes).
345
1773 February Vice Admiralty Court. DAWSON v. DOLPHIN, No. 52, Docs. I, II (decree for claimants).
1773 March Vice Admiralty Court. SURVEYOR GENERAL v. LOGS, KENNEBEC COMPANY, claimant, No. 55, Docs. I–III (decree for Kennebec Company).
1773 April Middlesex Superior Court (at least 3 actions). Gordon v. Martin (jury for Martin).
1773 April Middlesex Superior Court (at least 3 actions). Martin v. Gordon (jury for Martin).
1773 April Middlesex Superior Court (at least 3 actions). PRESCOTT v. PRIEST, No. 19, Docs. III, IV (jury for Prescott).
1773 April Suffolk Inferior Court (84 writs drawn; 11 defendants' actions).
1773 April Vice Admiralty Court. DAWSON v. THE JENNY, No. 52 (decree of forfeiture).
1773 May Elected by the House a member of the Council, but negatived by Hutchinson.
1773 May Barnstable and Dukes County Superior Court (at least 2 actions). Lynds v. Thacher (Thacher defaults).
1773 May Barnstable and Dukes County Superior Court (at least 2 actions). Doane v. Harding (jury for Harding).
1773 May Plymouth Superior Court (at least 5 actions). Rochester 1st Precinct v. Sundry (Rochester discontinues).
1773 May Plymouth Superior Court (at least 5 actions). Otis v. Simmons (jury for Otis).
1773 June Essex Superior Court (14 actions). Marston v. Coombs (jury for Marston).
1773 June Essex Superior Court (14 actions). Hooper v. Norwood (jury for Hooper).
1773 June Essex Superior Court (14 actions). Champion v. Eaton (jury for Champion).
1773 June Essex Superior Court (14 actions). Glover v. Champion (Champion nonsuited).
1773 June Essex Superior Court (14 actions). Woodbury v. Hooper (chancery for Hooper).
1773 June Essex Superior Court (14 actions). Bass v. Knight (jury for Knight).
1773 July Suffolk Inferior Court (52 writs drawn; 12 defendants' actions).
1773 August Suffolk Superior Court (73 actions). Scott v. Tirrell (jury for Scott).
1773 August Suffolk Superior Court (73 actions). William Barrell v. Walter Barrell (William discontinues).
1773 August Suffolk Superior Court (73 actions). Ayer v. Gardiner (jury for Gardiner).
1773 August Suffolk Superior Court (73 actions). Downer v. Wyman (jury for Wyman).
1773 August Suffolk Superior Court (73 actions). Patten v. Goldthwait (jury for Patten).
1773 August Suffolk Superior Court (73 actions). Wyman v. Downer (jury for Wyman).
1773 August Suffolk Superior Court (73 actions). Needham v. Hall (jury for Needham).
1773 August Suffolk Superior Court (73 actions). Worth v. Folger (proceedings quashed).
346
1773 August Suffolk Superior Court (73 actions). Clark v. McCarney (McCarney's plea in abatement overruled; continued).
1773 August Suffolk Superior Court (73 actions). Story v. Keen (Story confesses judgment; chancery for Keen).
1773 August Suffolk Superior Court (73 actions). Petition of James Bowdoin (granted).
1773 August Suffolk Superior Court (73 actions). Swan v. Davenport (Swan discontinues).
1773 August Suffolk Superior Court (73 actions). Richards v. Doble (Richards discontinues).
1773 August Suffolk Superior Court (73 actions). Parker v. Tayler (jury for Tayler).
1773 August Suffolk Superior Court (73 actions). Savage v. Gould (jury for Gould).
1773 August Suffolk Superior Court (73 actions). Spear v. Keen (Keen defaults).
1773 August Special Court of Admiralty for the Trial of Piracies. REX v. NICKERSON, No. 57, Docs. I, III (Nickerson acquitted).
1773 September Worcester Superior Court (at least 2 actions). Stevens v. Gates (jury for Gates).
1773 September Worcester Superior Court (at least 2 actions). Chandler v. Bradish (judgment for Bradish).
1773 October Suffolk Inferior Court (44 writs drawn; 4 defendants' actions).
1773 October Bristol Superior Court (at least 9 actions). Robinson v. Brayton (judgment for Brayton).
1773 October Bristol Superior Court (at least 9 actions). Weaver v. Slade (jury for Slade).
1773 October Bristol Superior Court (at least 9 actions). Ripley v. Williams (jury for Ripley).
1773 October Bristol Superior Court (at least 9 actions). Porter v. Lincoln (jury for Porter).
1773 October Bristol Superior Court (at least 9 actions). Williams v. Woodward (judgment for Williams).
1773 October Bristol Superior Court (at least 9 actions). Briggs v. Foster (jury for Briggs).
1773 October Bristol Superior Court (at least 9 actions). Richmond v. Woodward (jury for Richmond).
1773 October Bristol Superior Court (at least 9 actions). Gilbert v. Parris (jury for Parris).
1773 October Middlesex Superior Court (at least 8 actions). Fowle v. Wyman (jury for Fowle).
1773 October Middlesex Superior Court (at least 8 actions). PRESCOTT v. KEEP, No. 18, Doc. I (jury for Keep; motion in arrest of judgment; continued).
1773 October Middlesex Superior Court (at least 8 actions). Gibbs v. Eames (jury for Gibbs).
1773 October Middlesex Superior Court (at least 8 actions). Sparhawk v. Bridge (withdrawn from jury; continued).
1773 October Middlesex Superior Court (at least 8 actions). Divine v. Ware (jury for Ware).
1773 October Middlesex Superior Court (at least 8 actions). Clafflin v. Ware (Clafflin nonsuited).
1773 October Middlesex Superior Court (at least 8 actions). Stone v. Ware (jury for Ware).
1773 October Essex Inferior Court. CAESAR v. GREENLEAF, No. 42, (jury for Caesar).
1773 November Essex Superior Court (at least 2 actions).
1774 January Suffolk Inferior Court (79 writs drawn; 13 defendants' actions).
347
1774 February House of Representatives impeaches Chief Justice Peter Oliver, using authorities furnished by JA.
1774 February Suffolk Superior Court (52 actions; adjourned to June without trials; JA did not attend).
1774 March Prepares statement of Massachusetts' claim to the “western lands.”
1774 April Middlesex Superior Court (at least 5 actions). Brown v. Willington (jury for Brown).
1774 April Middlesex Superior Court (at least 5 actions). Barren v. Crosby (jury for Crosby).
1774 April Middlesex Superior Court (at least 5 actions). Eames v. Gibbs (jury for Gibbs).
1774 April Middlesex Superior Court (at least 5 actions). Warren v. Hagan (jury for Warren; motion in arrest of judgment; continued).
1774 April Suffolk Inferior Court (94 actions).
1774 April Worcester Superior Court (at least 2 actions). Taft v. Cragin (jury for Cragin).
1774 April Worcester Superior Court (at least 2 actions). Bolton Inhabitants v. Goss (withdrawn from jury; continued).
1774 May Elected by the House a member of the Council, but negatived by Gage.
1774 June Elected a Massachusetts delegate to the First Continental Congress; moves his family to Braintree, retaining office in Queen Street.
1774 June Essex Superior Court (at least 6 actions). Ober v. Ellis (special verdict; continued).
1774 June Essex Superior Court (at least 6 actions). Eaton v. Fuller (chancery for Fuller; 1s.).
1774 June Essex Superior Court (at least 6 actions). Symonds v. Aborn (judgment for Aborn).
1774 June Essex Superior Court (at least 6 actions). Leigh v. Morrell (jury for Morrell).
1774 June Essex Superior Court (at least 6 actions). Wilder v. Peabody (jury for Peabody).
1774 June York Superior Court (at least 2 actions). Alden v. Cutt (jury for Cutt).
1774 July Cumberland and Lincoln Superior Court (at least 4 actions). Andrews v. King (jury for Andrews; see No. 2).
1774 July Cumberland and Lincoln Superior Court (at least 4 actions). KING v. STEWART, No. 2, Doc. XIII (jury for King).
1774 July Cumberland and Lincoln Superior Court (at least 4 actions). Burnam v. Libbee (jury for Libbee).
1774 July Suffolk Inferior Court (80 actions).
1774 July Vice Admiralty Court. ROSS' CASE, No. 53 (takes minutes).
1774 August Travels to Philadelphia to the Congress.
1774 August Suffolk Superior Court (at least 63 actions; all trials continued).
348
1774 November Returns to Braintree. Attends first Provincial Congress as a member from Braintree.
1774 December Re-elected to Congress.
1775 January–April Publishes “Novanglus” essays in Boston Gazette in answer to Daniel Leonard's “Massachusettensis” articles.
1775 February Suffolk Superior Court (last session under Crown).
1775 March Elected a Braintree selectman.
1775 May Attends Second Continental Congress.
1775 July Elected by the House a member of the Council.
1775 August Returns to Braintree. Attends Massachusetts Council. Re-elected to Congress.
1775 September–December Attends Continental Congress at Philadelphia. Plays a principal part in measures leading to the establishment of an American navy, including the composition and publication of Rules for the Regulation of the Navy of the United Colonies of North America.
1775 October Appointed Chief Justice of Massachusetts
1775 December Returns to Braintree. Attends Massachusetts Council. Re-elected to Congress.
1776 January Drafts Proclamation for the General Court, to be read at the opening of the Courts of justice and in town meetings.
1776 February–October Attends Continental Congress.
349
1776 March–April Writes Thoughts on Government.
1776 April Resigns from Massachusetts Council.
1776 May Advocates establishment of new state governments and writes preamble to resolution of 15 May recommending such action to the states.
1776 June Appointed to committee to draft a declaration of independence.
1776 July Makes principal speech in favor of the resolution for independence and signs Declaration of Independence.
1776 August Revises Articles of War.
1776 October Returns to Braintree.
1776 November Re-elected to Congress.
1777 January Attends Congress in Baltimore.
1777 February Resigns Chief Justiceship of Massachusetts.
1777 March Begins to serve on Standing Committee on Appeals in Prize Cases.
1777 November Returns to Braintree and resumes practice.
1777 December New Hampshire Court Maritime. PENHALLOW v. THE LUSANNA, No. 58, Docs. I–III (decree of forfeiture; appeal; while trying the case, notified of his appointment as Joint Commissioner to France).
1778 February Sails for France.
Index Index 350 351
Index
352 353
Note on the Index

This index covers, exclusively and completely, the three volumes of the Legal Papers of John Adams. It follows the pattern of other indexes in The Adams Papers , with modifications and amplifications appropriate to its specialized subject matter.

The chief special features are: First, a Table of Statutes cited throughout the volumes, arranged chronologically under each of its divisions and placed ahead of the main index. Second, inclusion in the main index of all legal cases cited from whatever jurisdiction in alphabetical order by name of the first-mentioned party. Third, the systematic citation in the index entries of Legal Papers “form” and “case” numbers wherever relevant. For example, “Form X” refers to the tenth sample pleading form in John Adams' Pleadings Book printed in the first volume, and “No. 10” refers to the tenth case (Bancroft v. Lee) in the over-all serially numbered sequence of cases included in the Legal Papers. The citations of forms and cases are in addition to volume-and-page citations. Fourth, references to the identifying “sketches” of the judges, lawyers, and law clerks to John Adams noticed in the Register of the Massachusetts Bench and Bar, printed in vol. 1:xcv–cxiv.

Otherwise, and as usual in The Adams Papers , the index is designed in some measure to supplement the annotation. The editors and Mrs. Carl Pitha, principal indexer of these volumes, have tried to furnish the correct spellings of proper names, to supply forenames for persons who appear in the text only with surnames, to indicate places of residence and occupations of persons whose forenames are either unknown or not known with certainty, and to distinguish by dates or other means persons with identical or nearly identical names. Markedly variant spellings of proper names have been cross-referenced to what are believed to be their most nearly standard forms, and the variant forms found in the documents appear in parentheses after the spellings believed to be standard. Wives' names, with a few exceptions for special reasons, follow their husbands' names, with see-references under their maiden names when known.