An American Family History

Michael and Mary Dwinnell married in Europe before 1668. The family's origins are not known. It could have been France, Scotland or Ireland.

They settled in Topsfield, Essex County, Massachusetts about 1660 where they were large landowners. They owned land from Wenham to Middleton, Massachusetts. They lived in Topsfield at the same time as the Isaac and Mary (Towne) Estey family and were there during the witch hysteria of 1692.

He (Michaell Donnell) took the oath of allegiance to King Charles II in Topsfield on December 18, 1678.

Their nine children were born in Topsfield. Mary Dwinnell Hovey was born on January 21, 1668/69. Doctor Michael Dwinnell was born in 1670, Thomas Dwinnell was born in November, 167, John Dwinnell was born on December 16, 1674, Elizabeth Dwinnell was born in April 17, 1677. Magdalen Dwinnell Holgate Clough as born on February 24, 1679, Joseph Dwinnell was born on January 26, 1682, Susannah Dwinnell Devenish Kilham was born on September 5, 1687, Joanna Dwinnell Hood was born on September 5, 1688.

In 1684, Michael's wife was on the list of members in full Communion at the church in Topsfield when Joseph Capen was ordained. They (Michal Donnell) were taxed in Topsfield in 1688.

Topsfield Historical Collections Volume 11 related that

At a Lawfull meeting of y^e Town of Topsfield the 2 day march 1702/8 . . . Michill Dwaniell & John Town are chosen hogringers. . .At a Lawfull and Generall meeting of y^e Town of Topsfield on y^e fourth Day of March 1706-7 . . . Thomas Perley and Micheal Dwaniel are Chosen Constables for y^e year Insuing.

His will was dated January 29, 1710. The Compendium of American Genealogy, 1600s-1800s states that he died in 1713 or 1717 and his will was proved in March, 1717 and according to the Essex County Probate Index his will was filed on March 3, 1718 in Topsfield.

Michael made provisions for Mary, his widow in his will since as a married woman she was not able to own any property in her own name.

. . . my Son John Shall have y^e Barn, only allowing his Mother so much of It as she shall have occasion for her own use, and Benefit during her Natural life. . .my Son John & Joseph shall keep for my wife Two Cows and a Horse. And Ten Sheep—my wife finding fodder for them—Also she shall have liberty of milking y^e Cows in pasture.

Old Style Calendar Before 1752 the year began on Lady Day, March 25th,. Dates between January 1st and March 24th were at the end of the year. Old Style (O.S.) and New Style (N.S.) are used to indicate whether the year has been adjusted. Often both dates are used.