These papers chiefly, deeds and papers of estae settlements, were all generated by the descendents of John Frye, 1601-1693. Among other children, John had three sons, Benjamin, 1635-1696; Samuel, 1649-1725; and “Captain” James, 1652-1734. These papers have been divided into five parts by family lines beginning with the second generation. “Captain” James gave a deed to his nephew John in 1723. This is the first subdivision. The second group consists of papers of the children of Benjamin Frye. Most prominent among these was John, called “Junior” or “Great John” to distinguish him from his cousin John, son of Samuel. John “Junior” and his sisters Esther and Hepzibah sold land in Andover. Their papers make up the second subdivision.

The third subdivision consists of a deed of Samuel, 1694-1761, son of Samuel Frye. The fourth consists of three receipts by Isaac Frye, a grandson of Samuel by his son John, acting as Town Treasurer. They date from 1739-1741 are made out to John Frye, Constable, probably John “Junior”. The fifth set of records are from Timothy Frye, 1714-1774, son of John “Junior” and his children. Timothy's papers consist of two bonds and one estate paper. The papers of his children: Elizabeth Frye Abbott, 1741-1834; Lydia, 1756-c.1793; and John; 1757-1832, concerns the estates of their deceased brother Nathaniel, and then Lydia's own estate.

Their provenance is unknown.

Early Records of the Frye Family of Andover, compiled by Charlotte Helen Abbott was used in writing this note. Processed by Mary F. Morgan, November 1982