Long Island Native Americans and the 11 Necks of the Town of Babylon (Town of Babylon History Book, Chapter 3)

Town of Babylon History Book - Long Island Native Americans and the 11 Necks of the Town of Babylon (chapter 3; February 2025)

For more information, please contact the Town of Babylon Historian's Office. Use the "Contact Us" section on the home page. 

Long Island Native Americans 

and the 11 Necks Of The Town Of Babylon

The earliest inhabitants of present-day Town of Babylon were the Native Americans indigenous to the lands renamed America. Dutch and English settlers learned much about survival from these indigenous people who excelled in hunting, fishing, and whaling, as well as having a vast knowledge of how to harvest and cultivate the natural vegetation.

 Colonists identified the indigenous people using Native American terms given to the various territories across Long Island. For example, the area from present-day Seaford to Copiague was referred to as “massapeague,” reportedly meaning “great water land,” thus, the settlers referred to the indigenous people living there as the Massapequas. However, it is important to acknowledge that these were classifications assigned by European settlers and not an identity designated or adopted by the native peoples themselves. In the past, history books have referred to Long Island having “thirteen tribes,” but historians and scholars now believe that a more accurate description of the Native American’s pre-colonial social structure could be “communities” or “families.”[1]

Interaction with the European settlers weakened the population of indigenous people through diseases brought to North America by European settlers and the forced displacement of the Native Americans into less desirable and limited lands. Despite generational hardships, many indigenous people survived and their descendants still live on Long Island.

The South Shore of the Town of Babylon is comprised of 11 necks, or peninsulas, that border the Great South Bay. Recorded in Town of Huntington land deeds and on maps, each neck has a historical name. Most of the necks have a name or description that was used by the Native Americans. Some of the Native American names were embraced and used by the English settlers and many were renamed.

Access to the necks and the Great South Bay was important to the early settlers of the old Town of Huntington who lived, primarily, near the North Shore.

Salt Hay – or salt meadow cordgrass (sporobolus pumilus) – was a valuable economic resource from Colonial times until the early 20th century. Growing naturally along the creeks, bay and barrier islands of Long Island’s South Shore, salt hay had many domestic uses, including feed for livestock and making thatched roofs. Salt hay bloomed during the summer months, for harvest in September.

The proper harvesting of salt hay was controlled through legislation and penalties. For example, at the Huntington town board meeting, May 4, 1774, it was voted: “if any person cut any hay on the island or grass before the first day of September next he or they shall pay eight shillings for every ox load that is within Huntington pattens to be recovered before any justice of the peace within Suffolk County.”

Sketch of the 11 necks in the Town of Babylon.
Map source: Huntington-Babylon Town History, by Romanah Sammis, 1937.

Definitions of the Native American words used for the names of certain necks are derived from The Indian Place- Names on Long Island and Islands Adjacent, by William Wallace Tooker, 1911. Mr. Tooker was a self-described Algonkinist, or specialist in Coastal Algonquian culture and history. His work is not an official authority on the Algonquin language, but offers some insight into the language and the usage of Native American words on Long Island.

1. West Neck (Amityville) – “West” refers to its westernmost location.  According to Tooker, it was once “Araca,” meaning “beyond” or “furthermost.”

2.  Josiah’s Neck (Amityville) – “Josiah,” Hebrew name meaning “Jehovah helps.”  According to Tooker, it was once “Scurraway,” meaning “snake place.”

3.   Half Neck (Copiague/Amity Harbor) – A 1697 land record states that this neck was called Lacten’s Neck by the English and Taukoms by the Native Americans. According to Tooker, “Taukoms” means “a spring” or “a fountain.”

4.  Great Neck (Copiague/Copiague Harbor) – According to Tooker, it was once known as “Tatamuckatakis,” meaning “meadow that trembles.”

5.   Copiague Neck (Copiague/American Venice) – “Copiague” refers to a Native American word meaning “sheltered place” or “safe harbor.”

6.  Little Neck (Lindenhurst) – According to Tooker, the Nativce Americans referred to it as “Gueguis”; meaning not identified. 

7.   Neguntatogue Neck (Lindenhurst) – “Neguntatogue,” possible interpretation of a Native American word meaning “abandoned” or “forsaken land.” 

8.  Santapogue Neck (West Babylon) – “Santapogue,” meaning “a place of cool water.”  The southern part of this neck is now known as Bergen Point, and earlier known as Fleet’s Point. 

9.  Great East Neck (West Babylon) – “Great East” probably referring to its location and to differentiate it from “Great Neck.”  According to Tooker, the Neck was once known as “Guscomquorom,” meaning “crossing place,” which refers to it being cross by a Native American trail.

10.  Little East Neck (West Babylon and Babylon) – “Little East” probably referring to its location and to differentiate it from “Little Neck.”  According to Tooker, it was once known as “Annuskemunnica Neck,” meaning “plowed ground” or “planted land.” 

11.   Sumpwams Neck (Babylon) – According to Tooker, “Sumpwams” means “straight walker,” or “he goes straight,” referring to an “upright or just man.”

Here are some of the Native American words and names used across the Town of Babylon and their purported meanings. Please note: Spellings and pronunciations of Long Island Native American words and names are subjective and typically determined by community residents. The Native Americans of Long Island had a spoken language, and records kept by Colonists, starting in in the 1600s, contained interpretations of the Native American language. The European settlers typically used phonetic spellings, which often differed among documents and writers. The meanings of Native American words can also differ among historians and researchers.

Native American Word or Name	Purported Meaning or Identity	Word/Name Use in the Town of Babylon
Algonquin	·  Refers to the Native American languages spoken in northeastern North America	·  Algonquin Street, North Babylon
Annuskemunnica (spelling variations include Anuskkummikak)	·  “plowed ground” or “planted land”	·  Annuskemunnica Neck, a previous name for Little East Neck (West Babylon and Babylon) ·  Annuskemunnica Road, Babylon ·  Annuskemunnica Creek (another name for Carll’s Creek, Babylon)
Araca	·  “beyond” or “furthermost”	·  Araca Neck, a previous name for West Neck (Amityville) ·  Araca Road, Babylon
Cockenoe (spelling variations include Cockeno, Cockenow, Chachaneu)	·  A person who instructs or gives information; an “interpreter” or “teacher.” ·  Cockenoe was recorded in Colonial records of Connecticut and Long Island, an agent of the Native American Sachems.	·  Cockenoe Avenue, Babylon
Copiague	·  “sheltered place” or “safe harbor”	·  Hamlet of Copiague ·  Copiague Avenue, Copiague ·  Copiague Place, Copiague ·  Copiague Road, North Lindenhurst
Guscomquorom	·  “crossing place”	·  Guscomquorom Neck, a previous name for Great East Neck (West Babylon)
Ketewamoke (spelling variations include Katawamake)	·  “where the sea flows” or the “shore” ·  Ketewamoke was reportedly a Native American village in Huntington.	·  Ketewamoke Avenue, Babylon
Montauk	·  “hilly or high land”	·  Montauk Highway, through Copiague, Lindenhurst and West Babylon. In Amityville the highway is named Merrick Road and in Babylon it is named Main Street.

Native American Word or Name	Purported Meaning or Identity	Word/Name Use in the Town of Babylon
Neguntatogue (spelling variations include Neguntetogue)	·   “abandoned” or “forsaken land”	·   Neguntatogue Neck (Lindenhurst) ·   Neguntatogue Creek ·   Neguntatogue Road, a former name for Wellwood Avenue, Lindenhurst
Paumanake	·   refers to eastern Long Island	·   Paumanake Avenue, Babylon
Santapogue	·   “a place of cool water”	·   Santapogue Neck ·   Santapogue Creek ·   Santapogue Drive, Lindenhurst ·   Santapogue Court, West Babylon
Scurraway	·   “snake place”	·   Scurraway Neck, a previous name for Josiah’s Neck (Amityville)
Sumpwams (spelling variations include Sumpawams, Sampawams, Sampwams)	·   “straight walker” or “he goes straight” referring to an upright or just person	·   Sumpwams Neck, Babylon ·   Sumpwams Creek, boundary between Towns of Babylon and Islip ·   Sumpwams Place and Sumpwams Avenue, Babylon
Tatamuckatakis	·   “meadow that trembles”	·   Tatamuckatakis Neck, a previous name for Great Neck (Copiague)
Wyandanch (spelling variations include Waindance, Wayandanch, Wiantanse, Wyandance)	·   Wyandanch, a Montaukett Indian Sachem (or Chief), was born around 1615. He lived his whole life on Long Island and died in 1658. ·   Sachem Wyandanch signed agreements with the Town of Huntington in 1657-1659. In History of Suffolk County, 1882, James B. Cooper asserted, “Wyandance was the Sachem of Montauk but exercised jurisdiction over all the Indian lands on the island.”	·   Hamlet of Wyandanch ·   Wyandanch Avenue, Babylon ·   Wyandanch Avenue, North Babylon

The Trustees of the Colonial Town of Huntington engaged in several land transactions with Native American leaders and representatives related to land that is now part of the Town of Babylon. The deeds were recorded in the records of the Town of Huntington, under the following dates and titles. A selection of these deeds, marked with the asterisk (*) are reproduced below, with notes.

Readers may note that the deeds included misspellings and inconsistent spellings of names, people, places and words. Many names and places were spelled phonetically. Writers at that time also used many abbreviations that may be unfamiliar to modern readers (e.g., sd. = said) and extra vowels were sometimes added to words (e.g., betweene vs. between, neighbours vs. neighbors). Each of the deed transcriptions is followed by a revised transcription printed in in “blue.”

1.      (*) 1657, June 1 – Indian Deed of Five Necks, South Side

2.     1657, July 23 – Indian Deed of Half Neck

3.     1658, August 17 – Indian Deed of Three Necks, Southside

4.     1659 – Division of Lands

5.     (*) 1689, July 12 – Indian Deed of Santapogue South, and Confirmations

6.     1689, July 13 – Indian Deed to Robert Kellum

7.     1689, November 5 – Indian Deed of Sumpwams Neck, South

8.     1689, November 13 – Indian Deed of An Island in South Bay

9.     1691, March 7 – Indian Deed to Robert Kellum Of Islands In The South Bay

10.  1691, September 25 – Indian Deed of Neguntatogue Neck, South

11.   (*) 1693, November 28 – Indian Deed of Copiague Neck, South

12.  1695, August 18 – Bethpage Purchase

13.  1696, July 2 – Indian Deed to Samuel Wood

14.  (*) 1697, May 5 – Indian Deed to John Ketcham and Jonas Platt – South

15.  1697, May 11 – Deed. Indians To John Ketcham, James Chichester, and Timothy Conklin

16.  1697, December 2 – Indian Deed To Joseph Wood, Thomas Fleet and Nathaniel Foster – South

17.  (*) 1698, May 4 – Indian Deed To The Trustees of the Town (known as the Baiting Place Purchase)

18.  1698, May 13 – Indian Deed. East Neck, South Side

19.  (*) 1699, December 16 – Squaw Pit Purchase; Indian Deed To Trustees

20. 1700, May 22 – Indian Deed to Trustees

21.  1700, July 2 – Indian Deed, Santapogue

22. 1701, July 3 – Indian Deed to Trustees

23. (*) 1702, April 14 – Indian Deed To Trustees

24. 1702, May 20 – Indian Deed To Trustees

25. 1702, May 22 – Indian Deed to Jacob Conklin

26. 1703, November 17 – Indian Deed To Joseph Wood

27. 1705, October 27 – Indian Deed To Trustees

28. 1705, October 29 – Indian Deed To Trustees

29. 1705, November 20 – Indian Deed To Trustees

30. 1707, May 28 – Division of [Great] East Neck Meadow at South

31.  (*) 1755, January 23 – Indian Deed to Trustees

This chart illustrates the necks and approximate land areas represented in each land agreement.

Necks, west to east ð           Land Agreements ò

West Neck [2]

Josiah’s Neck [3]

Half Neck [4]

Great Neck [5]

Copiague Neck [6]

Little Neck [7]

Neguntatogue Neck [8]

Santapogue Neck [9]

Great East Neck [10]

Little East Neck [11]

Sumpwams Neck [12]

Other and Notes

(1)

1657, June 1 – Indian Deed of Five Necks, South Side

Ï

Ï

Ï

Ï

Ï

(2)

1657, July 23 – Indian Deed of Half Neck and Confirmation

Ï

(3)

1658, August 17 – Indian Deed of Three Necks, Southside

Ï

Ï

Ï

(4)

1659 – Division of Lands

Ï

and other unnamed necks

(5)

1689, July 12 – Indian Deed of Santapogue, South, and Confirmations

(Ï)

Ï

(Ï)

reference made to Neguntatogue and Great East Necks

(6)

1689, July 13 – Indian Deed to Robert Kellum

Ï

8 acres

(7)

1689, November 5 – Indian Deed of Sumpwams Neck, South

Ï

(8)

1689, November 13 – Indian Deed of An Island in South Bay

Cedar Island [13]

(9)

1691, March 7 – Indian Deed to Robert Kellum of Islands in the South Bay

an unnamed island [14]

(10)

1691, September 25 – Indian Deed of Neguntatogue Neck, South

Ï

with uplands, north of the necks

(11)

1693, November 28 – Indian Deed of Copiague Neck, South

Ï

with uplands, north of the necks

(12)

1695, August 18 – Bethpage Purchase

East Farmingdale area  [15]

(13)

1696, July 2 – Indian Deed to Samuel Wood

Ï

Ï

(14)

1697, May 5 – Indian Deed to John Ketcham and Jonas Platt – South

Ï

Necks, west to east ð           Land Agreements ò

West Neck 2

Josiah’s Neck 3

Half Neck 4

Great Neck 5

Copiague Neck 6

Little Neck 7

Neguntatogue Neck 8

Santapogue Neck 9

Great East Neck 11

Little East Neck 12

Sumpwams Neck 13

Other and Notes

(15)

1697, May 11 – Indian Deed to J. Ketcham, J. Chichester and T. Conklin

Ï

(16)

1697, December 2 – Indian Deed to J. Wood, T. Fleet and N. Foster – South

Ï

uplands, north of the necks

(17)

1698, May 4 – Baiting Place Purchase

East Farmingdale /North Amityville area  [16]

(18)

1698, May 13 – Indian Deed. East Neck, South Side

Ï

(19)

1699, December 16 – Squaw Pit Purchase

Deer Park/North Babylon area [17]

(20)

1700, May 22 – Indian Deed to Trustees of Land at Dix Hills

Deer Park/Dix Hills area [18]

(21)

1700, July 2 – Indian Deed, Santapogue

Ï

uplands, north of the necks

(22)

1701, July 3 – Indian Deed to Trustees

including Deer Park area [19]

(23)

1702, April 14 – Indian Deed to Trustees

Ï

uplands, north of the necks

(24)

1702, May 20 – Indian Deed to Trustees

Deer Park/North Babylon area [20]

(25)

1702, May 22 – Indian Deed to Jacob Conklin

Ï

(26)

1703, Nov. 17 – Indian Deed to Joseph Wood

Ï

(27)

1705, October 27 – Indian Deed to Trustees

barrier islands

(28)

1705, October 29 – Indian Deed to Trustees

barrier islands

(29)

1705, November 20 – Indian Deed to Trustees

Ï

Ï

(30)

1707, May 28 – Division of [Great] East Neck Meadow at South

Ï

(31)

1755, January 23 – Indian Deed to Trustees

Ï

with uplands, north of the necks [21]

    The following deeds were transcribed and arranged by Caleb Ward, SUNY Geneseo student intern, Robert David Lion Gardiner Foundation Fellowship, summer 2024, for the Town of Babylon, Office of Historic Services.

Ë  Ë  Ë

1657, June 1 – Recorded as Indian Deed of Five Necks, South Side

The deed is transcribed as published in the Huntington Town Records books. Following the deed transcription is a revised, “easier to read” version printed in in “blue.”

This was the first recorded land agreement with the Native Americans in the region that became the Town of Babylon. The five necks are part of the present village of Babylon, West Babylon and part of Lindenhurst, on the south side of Montauk Highway; commonly identified as (west to east) Neguntatogue Neck, Santapogue Neck, Great East Neck, Little East Neck and Sumpwams Neck.

In the Huntington Town Records, Editor Charles R. Streeter published this note: “This was the first Indian deed of lands on the South Side of Huntington. It was made by Wyandance, the Grand Sachem of all Long Island, residing at Montauk, and by the Chief of the Secatogue Indians, in occupation. This deed, like all others conveying Necks only, took in the meadow lands lying between the ‘Old Indian Path’ and the South Bay, being the Necks extending into the Bay. The grantee was Jonas Wood ‘of Halifax,’ and the purchase was for the benefit of a number of persons to whom the lands were afterwards divided These Necks were located on the Great South Bay, about midway of the shore line of the present Town of Babylon, between Sumpwams and Copiague Necks The value of the premises was chiefly in the salt grass these meadows produced, and as ‘English hay’ was unknown to this country for the first century after its settlement, salt hay was highly valued and was carted to all parts of the town from the South Meadows—C.R.S.”

Unlike later transactions, this agreement does not make reference to the colonial government. At the time of this agreement, New York was known as New Netherland, a colonial province of the Republic of the Seven United Netherlands and the Dutch West India Company. Peter Stuyvesant (1612-1672) was the Director General of the colony 1647-1664, until it became an English colony.

Underlined in the “blue” text, the agreement was for 5 necks of land. The compensation to the Native Americans was “twelve coats, twenty hoes, twenty hatchets, twenty knives, ten pounds of powder, ten pounds of lead and one great saddle and one hat, [and] every year, a coat for six years.”

_____________________________

1657, June 1 – Indian Deed of Five Necks, South Side [22]

This writinge testifieth an Agreement and Bargaine made Betweene Jonas Wood off Huntington, on Long Island, the one party and meantaquit Sachem the other party:

Witnesseth that the abov sd. Jonas Wood hath for himselfe and the rest of his neighboures of Huntington, afore said, Bought five Necks of meadow Ling next adjoining to massapeags Sachems land: and the above sd. Jonas Wood Doth hereby ingage himself for and on the behalfe off his Neighbours, to pay or cause to be paid, unto y^e abov. sd. sachem of meantaquit, twelve coates, twenty howes, twenty hatchets, twenty knives, ten pounds of powder, ten pounde of lead and on great Cettell and on hatt, present in hand, And doth further promise to give to the above sd Sachem, every yeare, a Coat for six years, next ensuing the Date hereof:

And the abov sd. Sachem Waindance, for and in consideration of the these abov sd. goods, Doth give full Rite and proprietie to the afofe sd. Jonas and his Neighbours and theere heyrs for ever to all the sd five Neckes of meadow, and will free them from all Claims and titles that any other may Lay thereto in witness whereof Booth parties Interchangably put to thir hands this fist day of June 1657.

In the presents of Lion Gardener Thomas Tallmage, Benjamin Price

Ï Waindance Marke Sachem of Meantaquitt

This may witness to all that:

keeossechok the sachem of ^t secoutok have Resigned up all that Right or Interest hee might any wayes lay unto the neckes of medowe expressed above in this wrighting and so confirm the bargan and full of the mantakit sachem as witness my mark.

In presents of John stiklings Samuell fferman as witness the mark of Ambrus Sutton Ï the mark of Richard Brush Ï

keeossechok Ï his mark.

Recorded in the office in New York the 2^d day of November 1667 Matthias Nichols Sec.

_____________________________

1657, June 1 – Indian Deed of Five Necks, South Side

This writing testifies an agreement and bargain made between Jonas Wood of Huntington, on Long Island, the one party and Montaukett Sachem the other party:

Witness that the above said Jonas Wood has for himself and the rest of his neighbors of Huntington, aforesaid, bought five necks of meadow lying next adjoining to Massapequa Sachems land: and the above said Jonas Wood does hereby engage himself for and on the behalf of his neighbors, to pay or cause to be paid, unto you above said Sachem of Montaukett, 12 coats, 20 hoes, 20 hatchets, 20 knives, 10 pounds of powder, 10 pounds of lead and 1 great saddle and 1 hat, present in hand, and does further promise to give to the above said Sachem, every year, a coat for 6 years, next ensuing the date hereof.

And the above said Sachem Wyandance, for and in consideration of the these above said goods, does give full right and propriety to the aforesaid Jonas Wood and his neighbors and their heirs forever to all the said five necks of meadow, and will free them from all claims and titles that any other may lay thereto in witness whereof both parties interchangeably put to their hands this June 1, 1657.

In the presence of Lion Gardiner Thomas Tallmadge Benjamin Price

Ï Wyandance Mark Sachem of Montaukett

This may witness to all that:

Keeossechoe the Sachem of the Secatogue have resigned up all that right or interest he might anyways lay unto the necks of meadow expressed above in this writing and so confirm the bargain and full of the Montaukett Sachem as witness my mark.

In the presence of John Stiklings Samuel Ferman as witness the mark of Ambrose Sutton Ï the mark of Richard Brush Ï

Keeossechoe Ï his mark.

Recorded in the office in New York November 2, 1667. Matthias Nichols, Secretary.

Ë  Ë  Ë

1689, July 12 – Recorded as Indian Deed of Santapogue, South and Confirmations

The deed is transcribed as published in the Huntington Town Records books. Following the deed transcription is a revised, “easier to read” version printed in in “blue.”

At the time of this agreement, New York was a colonial province of England. In 1689, Jacob Leisler (c.1640-1691) led a revolt and appointed himself acting Lieutenant Governor of the New York Province. He acted as the 8^th Colonial Governor of New York until March 1691 when he was removed and arrested by Henry Sloughter, the new Governor appointed by the English Monarchs. England was ruled by spouses William III (1650-1702) and Mary II (1662-1694). This deed does not mention the Monarchs by name but makes one reference to “His Majesty.” 

Underlined in the “blue” text, the agreement was for Santapogue Neck and lands to the north and west. The compensation to the Native Americans was recorded as gifts, payment of debts and a barrel of cider; “given for all gifts and paid debts for some of them; also we do bestow on them now a barrel of cider.” Unfortunately, a list of the “gifts” and “debts” was not recorded.

In 1665, Governor Richard Nicolls drafted legislation for the Colony of New York. Known as the Duke of York’s Laws, or the Duke’s Laws, the laws set forth rules for the Colonial residents and included the prohibitions against the sale, barter or gift of guns, furs and liquor to the Native Americans. Although earlier agreements with the Native Americans included the exchange of goods and weapons, compensation subsequent deeds was colonial money.

In part, the laws stated, “No person shall sell, giver or Barter directly or indirectly any Gun or guns, Powder, Bullet, Shott, Lead … Without License first had and obtained under the Governours hand and Seal, to any Indian whatsoever … no shall amend or repair any Gun belonging to any Indian, nor shall Sell any armour or weapons, Vessell, or Boat …”[23]

_____________________________

1689, July 12 – Recorded as Indian Deed of Santapogue, South, and Confirmations [24]

To all expian peopell to whom these p^rsents may Com, Know y^e that wee Jeffrey and will Cheepie and Whahawaram, secotoug Indians and proproriotors or owners of the upland of a neeke of Land, sittuate liing and being on the south side of this Iland, Commonly called or knowne by the name of Santapauge, with the Conscent and assente of pameacoe and wameas and the Rest of the owners of that neeke of upland : Have for the kindnes and greate love that wee Bare unto Cap^tn Platt, Leutenant Thomas Weekes, Jonathan Rogers se^r Nathaniell foster, and the Rest of the owners of the medow land of that neeke aforesaid: given, granted and made over, for the Reasons aforesaid, from us our heires, executors, administrators and assignes : all that track or parsell of upland on santapaug aforesaid, from the edg of the fresh medow, southward unto the Indian path, norward as now it is, and from the River, eastward that parts guscomguaram from the said santapaug, unto the Rivar westward that parts santapaug and nagunttatouge : wee the aforesaid Indians Have ffreely and vollentaryly, without any bribe or indirect Dealing from the aforesaid English men, or any on of them: given, granted and made over all that part or parsell of upland Bounded as aforesaid ffrom us our heires, executors, administrators and assignes, unto the aforesaide Cap^tin Epenetus Platt, Leu^tin thomas weeks, Jonathan Rogers, nathaniell foster, and all the Rest of the properiotors or owners of medow Land ; and that the upland aforesaid may bee equally Devided unto every english owner of medow upland answerable to theire paporcon of medow, to the end that the English and Indians may not bee trespasswers on too the other: but that there may be neighboarly love continued betweene English and Indians : for all the aforesaid Reasons wee the aforegranted : Have by these p^rsents By this our Deed of gift, alienated and estrainged the aforegranted p^rmises from us our heirs, executors, administrators and assigns, unto the aforesaid Cap^tn Epenetus platt, and his asosiates, their heirs, executors, administrators and assignes : to Have, Hould, use, ocupie, and injoye for ever firmely and freely, or as firmely as can bee made By Any Deede or Conveyance whatsoever, and Doe heerby these p^rsents Renounce and Revoke all former grants or Bargens, and to maintain this as our just act and Deed against any person or persons whatsoever : whereas it is said in the seventeenth line the uplands to bee Divided according to the parporcon of medow, it was a mistake, the upland is to every man alike according to the intent of the Indians : in witnes whereof wee the aforegranted have here unto set our hands and seales the 12^th Daie of July, in the first yeare of his Ma^tie Raine, and in the yeare of our Lord on thousand six hundred eaightie nine.

signed sealed and deld in the prsents of us: the mark of Ï Waameas                             the mark of Pamecoe                                   Charles Pamegua Liplalet Jones. Jonathan Scudder.

the mark of Ï Jeffrey      [L.A.] the mark of Will Ï Chopie      [L.A.] the mark of Whahawharru     [L.A.]

This deed of guift is entered upon Record in Page : 99 : Jully y^e 16^th 1689 p mee

Isaac Platt Rec^r

Memorandum, we who have Received y^e within instrament have, to gratifie the subscribers, given four all guifts and paid debts for sum of them ; also wee do bestow on them now a barrel of sider, which we, the within subscribers, doe exept in full satisfaction: and do for ever aquit all Clame to y^e premeses, or further satisfaction, wee whose names are subscribed doe now mark y^e bounds by or as y^e path now runs and have given posesion by turff and twig as witness our hands this twenty of november 1692.

Jonathan Rogars, Juneire            Charles Pameque The mark of Ï Chippous

the mark of Ï Wamebas the mark of Ï Jefry the mark of Ï Waweweeram

_____________________________

1689, July 12 – Recorded as Indian Deed of Santapogue, South, and Confirmations

To all people to whom these presents may concern, know you that we Jeffrey and Will Chippie and Whawaweeram, Secatogue Indians and proprietors or owners of the upland of a neck of land, situated along and being on the south side of this island, commonly called or known by the name of Santapogue, with the consent and assent of Pameacoe and Wameaus and the rest of the owners of that neck of upland:

Have for the kindness and great love that we bare unto Captain Platt, Lieutenant Thomas Weekes, Jonathan Rogers, Sir Nathaniel Foster, and the rest of the owners of the meadow land of that neck aforesaid: given, granted and made over, for the reasons aforesaid, from us our heirs, executors, administrators and assigns:

All that track or parcel of upland on Santapogue aforesaid, from the edge of the fresh meadow, southward unto the Indian path, northward as now it is, and from the river, eastward that parts Guscomquorom from the said Santapogue, unto the river westward that parts Santapogue and Neguntatogue:

We the aforesaid Indians have freely and voluntarily, without any bribe or indirect dealing from the aforesaid English men, or any one of them: given, granted and made over all that part or parcel of upland bounded as aforesaid from us our heirs, executors, administrators and assigns, unto the aforesaid Captain Epenetus Platt, Lieutenant Thomas Weeks, Jonathan Rogers, Nathaniel Foster, and all the rest of the proprietors or owners of meadow land;

And that the upland aforesaid may be equally divided unto every English owner of meadow upland answerable to their proportion of meadow, to the end that the English and Indians may not be trespassers on to the other: but that there may be neighborly love continued between English and Indians:

For all the aforesaid reasons we the aforementioned: have by these presents by this our deed of gift, alienated and estranged the aforementioned promises from us our heirs, executors, administrators and assigns, unto the aforesaid Captain Epenetus Platt, and his associates, their heirs, executors, administrators and assigns:

To have, hold, use, occupy, and enjoy forever firmly and freely, or as firmly as can be made by any deed or conveyance whatsoever, and do hereby these presence renounce and revoke all former grants or bargains, and to maintain this as our just act and deed against any person or persons whatsoever:

Whereas it is said in the seventeenth line the uplands to be divided according to the proportions of meadow, it was a mistake, the upland is to every man alike according to the intent of the Indians:

In witness whereof we the aforementioned have here unto set our hands and seals the 12^th day of July, in the first year of His Majesty’s reign, and in the year of our Lord 1689.

Signed sealed and delivered in the presence of us: the mark of Ï Wameaus                             the mark of Pamecoe                                   Charles Pamequa Liplalet Jones. Jonathan Scudder.

the mark of Ï Jeffrey      [L.A.] the mark of Will Ï Chippie      [L.A.] the mark of Whahawharru     [L.A.]

This deed of gift is entered upon Record in Page 99, July 16, 1689 per me

Isaac Platt recorder

Memorandum, we who have received the within instrument have, to gratify the subscribers, given for all gifts and paid debts for some of them; also we do bestow on them now a barrel of cider, which we, the within subscribers, do accept in full satisfaction: and do forever acquit all claim to the premises, or further satisfaction, we whose names are subscribed do now mark the bounds by or as the path now runs and have given possession by turf and twig as witness our hands this November 20, 1692.

Jonathan Rogers, Junior                          Charles Pamequa The mark of Ï Chippous

the mark of Ï Wameaus the mark of Ï Jefry the mark of Ï Whawaweeram

 

Ë  Ë  Ë

1693, November 28 – Recorded as Indian Deed of Copiag Neck, South

The deed is transcribed as published in the Huntington Town Records books. Following the deed transcription is a revised, “easier to read” version printed in in “blue.”

In the Huntington Town Records, Editor Charles R. Streeter published this note describing the systematic acquisition of land by Town of Huntington residents from the Native Americans, by first securing waterfront lands and then proceeding to assume ownership of inland areas. Streeter wrote, “Like the last Indian deed printed, this deed takes in a strip of upland north of the meadows previously purchased of the same Indians. The policy of the whites from the first settlement was to acquire the low lands along the coast on both sides of the Island, first, then, as the settlement increased in numbers, slices of the uplands were procured, extending further and further inland, the red man retreating towards the interior. If he was permitted to hunt and fish on the shores, it was under restrictions and conditions of competition with the superior appliances of the civilized whites, a competition the Indian could not withstand. White civilization pressed upon them from the north and from the south, until they were driven into narrow limits, and gradually, within less than a hundred years, perished away.—C. R. S.”

At the time of this agreement, New York was a colonial province of England. Benjamin Fletcher was the Colonial Governor of New York from 1692-1697. England was ruled by spouses William III (1650-1702) and Mary II (1662-1694). This deed refers to “our Sovereign Lord and Lady William and Mary.”. To honor King William III of England, the name of Long Island was changed to the Island of Nassau or Nassau Island, as referenced in this deed. William was born into the Royal House of Orange-Nassau, of the Netherlands, and the name Nassau Island is a reference to his heritage. The Native Americans’ name for Long Island was Paumanack. 

Underlined in the “blue” text, the agreement was for Copiague Neck. Although there is reference to a “bill of sale,” this agreement did not record specific information about compensation.

_____________________________

1693, November 28 – Indian Deed of Copiag Neck, South[25]

This Indenture made This twentie eight day of november In The yeare of our Lord one Thousand six hundred ninety three, and In the fifth year of our soveraigne Lord and Lady William and Mary, by the grace of God, of Ingland, Scotland esc^s king and Quene : Witneseth an agreement made betwene sownames, Indian of masapeag, on The Island of narsaw, on the one parte, and John Wood, of The Towne of Huntington, on The Island of narsaw, on The other parte, witneseth That for divers causes and good Consideration we hereunto moveing I. The afore^sd sow names doe alienate, sell and make over, and by These presents doe sell, make over and give full righte, titell and posesion unto The aforsd John Wood, a parcell of Land Lyeing and being In the County of suffolke and in the Township of Huntington, Comonly Known by The name of Copyag necke, and bounded Eastward on the Land of samuell Wood, of the aforesd Towne of Huntington, Westward upon Tatamuckatakis Creick, southward upon the meadowes already purchased, northward upon the Comons, that is to say forty rodd above the nowe Indian path, to him, The sd. John Wood, To Have and To Holde, To Him and His heires, executers, administrators for ever, free from any Loss, Hindrance or molestation from me or mine or any whomsoever, Laying Claime To the afor sd. Land, and I doe acknowledge by These presents to have recd full satisfaction for The sd. Land, for me my heires or asignes, or any other That shall pretend any righte or Titell to the afore sd. Land, and doe alsoe bind my selfe to make and confirme any other deed of sale which the aforesd Wood, by his Councell, Learned In the Lawe, shall see cause to have made or done, and doe Ingage To give the afore sd. Wood quiet and peceabl posesion of the same for ever. To him and His Heires Toe this bill of sale and The Confirmation Here of, I set to my hand and fix my seale, promising to Confirme the same This Day and yeare and above writen.

signed and sealed and delivered In presence of us Thomas Wickes John Tredwell John Platt

Indian. Ahungem Ï his mark his  Sonwames Ï    [G.] mark his  will Choppy Indian Ïmark

Memorandum that on the 4 day of July 1696, Appered before John Wickes, one of thaire maiesties Justises of the peace for the county of suffolk, the within writen sowamias and will chopy and doth acknowledg the within writen convaiance to bye thair free and vollantary act and deed vest

John Wickes

_____________________________

1693, November 28 – Indian Deed of Copiague Neck, South

This indenture made this November 28, 1693 in the fifth year of our Sovereign Lord and Lady William and Mary, by the grace of God, of England, Scotland, etc. King and Queen: Witness an agreement made between Sownames, Indian of Massapequa, on the Island of Nassau, on the one part, and John Wood, of the Town of Huntington, on the island of Nassau, on the other part, witness that for diverse causes and good consideration we hereunto moving I, the aforesaid Sownames do alienate, sell and make over, and by these presents do sell, make over and give full right, title and possession unto the aforesaid John Wood, a parcel of land lying and being in the County of Suffolk and in the township of Huntington, commonly known by the name of Copiague Neck, and bounded Eastward on the land of Samuel Wood, of the aforesaid Town of Huntington, westward upon Tatamuckatakis Creek, southward upon the meadows already purchased, northward upon the commons, that is to say forty rod above the now Indian path, to him, the said John Wood, to have and to hold, to him and his heirs, executors, administrators forever, free from any loss, hindrance or molestation from me or mine or any whomsoever, laying claim to the aforesaid land, and I do acknowledge by these presents to have received full satisfaction for the said land, for me my heirs or assigns, or any other that shall pretend any right or title to the aforesaid land, and do also bind myself to make and confirm any other deed of sale which the aforesaid Wood, by his council, learned in the law, shall see cause to have made or done, and do engage to give the aforesaid Wood quiet and peaceful possession of the same forever. To him and his heirs to this bill of sale and the confirmation here of, I set to my hand and fix my seal, promising to confirm the same this day and year and above written.

Signed, sealed and delivered in presence of us Thomas Wickes John Tredwell John Platt

Indian. Ahungem Ï his mark his  Sonwames Ï    [G.] mark his  will Chippie Indian Ïmark

Memorandum that on July 4, 1696, appeared before John Wickes, one of their Majesties’ Justices of the Peace for the County of Suffolk, the within written Sowamias and Will Chippie and do acknowledge the within written conveyance to be their free and voluntary act and deed vest.

John Wickes

Ë  Ë  Ë

1697, May 5 – Recorded as Indian Deed to John Ketcham and Jonas Platt – South

The deed is transcribed as published in the Huntington Town Records books. Following the deed transcription is a revised, “easier to read” version printed in in “blue.”

This agreement conveyed Josiah’s Neck, the westernmost neck in the current Town of Babylon transacted at that time. The remaining neck to the west is known as West Neck.

At the time of this agreement, New York was a colonial province of England. Richard Coote (1636-1701), 1^st Earl of Bellomont was the Colonial Governor of New York from 1698 until his death on March 5, 1701. Fletcher was succeeded by Lieutenant Governor Jon Nanfan (1634-1716) who served as acting Governor until Edward Hyde, 3^rd Earl of Clarendon (also known as Lord Cornbuy) was appointed. Following the death of Queen Mary II (1662-1694), England was ruled by her husband King William III (1650-1702). This deed made reference to King William.

Underlined in the “blue” text, the agreement was for Josiah’s Neck. Details or a specific sum for compensation to the Native Americans were not recorded in this agreement. It only mentions that the agreement was made “in consideration of a reasonable sum in hand.”

_____________________________

1697, May 5 – Indian Deed to John Ketcham and Jonas Platt – South[26] 

This Indenture Made fift of May in y^e ninth year of y^e Reigne of our Soverin Lord king william king of England Scotland, france & Ireland Defender of y^e faith and In y^e year of our lord on thousand six hundred ninty seven Between Mamesuructon & Wiliam Chepy Mesepague Indans In Quenes County on Nasaw Island of y^e one part and John Ketcham and Jonas platt of Huntington In y^e County of Suffolke on y^e Island of nasaw afore sd. In ye provence of New yorke of the other part witnesseth that y^e said Mame suructon & will Chepy masepegh Indians for & In consideration of a reasonable sum In hand secured at or before y^e ensealing & Delivery hereof by y^e said John Ketcham & Jonas Platt the Resepte whereof we Doe hereby acknowledge & our selves here with to be fully contented and paid and thereof and therefrom & of & from every part and parcell thereof Doth hereby acquit exonarate and Discharge the sd. John Ketcham and Jonas Platt thear heirs Exectuors & Admin^st hath given, granted bargned sould enfeefed released & confirmed and by these presents Doth hereby give grant bargan sell enfeefe Release and Confirme unto y^e sd. John Ketcham & Jonas Platt, thear heirs & assignes for ever a Certain neck of land lying on y^e South side this Island within the bounds o^f Huntington called by y^e Indians scuraway & by y^e English Josiahes neck which necke we y^e above said Indians Doe sell together with all & singular the hereditements & appurtenances theare unto belonging or in anie wise Appertaining with all y^e Right tytle Intrest posession property claime & Demand what soever of us y^e said Indans mad unto y^e said land & in & to all & every part & parcell thereof to have and to hould y^e said neck of land from y^e south Meadows and so runing north by y^e swampe called by Inglesh y^e west neck swampe to y^e line of the sd. swampe upon y^e brushey plaines then on a straight loyne upon y^e brushey plaines tell It comes against y^e head of a short swampe joyning to y^e south meadows lying betwen this sd. neck and the halfe neck then to runn from y^e head of this halfe neck swampe on a northeast loyne northeast upon y^e brushey plaines all the above sd. land with the appurtenances unto the said John Ketcham and Jonas Platt thear heirs & assignes from y^e said mame suructon & will chepy thear heirs executors and admin^st unto y^e sole & only proper use benifet & behoofe of them y^e said John Ketcham & Jonas Platt thear heirs & assignes for ever & the said mame suructon & will Chepy Do for them selves thear heirs executors & admin^st promis covenante grant to & with y^e sd John Ketcham & Jonas platt thear heirs & assignes that wee said Mame suructon & will chepy now at y^e ensealing & Delivery hereof standeth & Is soley only & Right fully sesed of y^e sd premisess and untill y^e estate here by to granted bargned & sould shall be sufficent past unto & Rested In y^e said John Ketcham & Jonas Platt thear heirs and assignes shall remaine sesed of the said primeses of a good absolute and perfect estate In fee simpell to them thear heairs & asignes for ever without anie manner of Condition Right title or limetation of use that may after distroye discontinue of evict the same and that the primeses now are & for ever heareafter shall be & Remaine to y^e said John Ketcham & Jonas platt thear heirs & assignes freely & clearly acquitted Released & discharged of &from all & all manner of other & former bargans sales alenations Morgages Judgments, executions extents & all other charges and Incumbrance what soever & further y^e sd Mame suructon & will chepy here In before granted and Menconed premises with y^e Appurtenances unto y^e said John Ketcham & Jonas platt thear heirs and assignes shall & will warrant and for ever by Thes presents defend In wittness whereof wee y^e said Mame suructon & will chepy hath here unto set to our hands & fixed our seale this first day of May in y^e year of our lord Christ on thousand six hundred ninty seven.

signed, sealed and Delivered In sight & presents of us. his James Ï Chichester mark Edward Higbee Jacob Brush Charles pameaqua Timothy Conkling.

Mame Ï his mark Suructon Ï his mark Will Ï Chepey his mark.

Memorandom that on y^e 13 Day of May 1697 appeared before John wickes on of thar majesties Justeses of y^e peace for y^e County of Suffolk the within named mame will chepy & suructon & Doth acknowledge the within written convaiance to be ther free & volentary act & Deede

Test. John Wickes

_____________________________

1697, May 5 – Indian Deed to John Ketcham and Jonas Platt – South

            This indenture made May 5, 1697 in the ninth year of the reign of our Sovereign Lord King William King of England Scotland, France and Ireland Defender of the Faith and in the year of our Lord between Mamesuructon and William Chippie Massapequa Indians in Queens County on Nassau Island of the one part and John Ketcham and Jonas Platt of Huntington in the County of Suffolk on the Island of Nassau aforesaid in the province of New York of the other part witness that the said Mame Suructon and Will Chippie Massapequa Indians for and in consideration of a reasonable sum in hand secured at or before the sealing and delivery hereof by the said John Ketcham and Jonas Platt the receipt whereof we do hereby acknowledge and ourselves here with to be fully contented and paid and thereof and therefrom and of and from every part and parcel thereof do hereby acquit, exonerate and discharge the said John Ketcham and Jonas Platt their heirs executors and administrators have given, granted, bargained, sold, enforced, released and confirmed and by these presents do hereby give, grant, bargain, sell, enforce, release and confirm unto the said John Ketcham and Jonas Platt, their heirs and assigns forever a certain neck of land lying on the south side this island within the bounds of Huntington called by the Indians Scurraway and by the English Josiah’s Neck which neck we the above said Indians do sell together with all and singular the hereditaments and appurtenances there unto belonging or in anywise appertaining with all the right title interest possession property claim and demand whatsoever of us the said Indians made unto the said land and in and to all and every part and parcel thereof to have and to hold the said neck of land from the south meadows and so running north by the swamp called by English the west neck swamp to the line of the said swamp upon the brushy plains then on a straight line upon the brushy plains until it comes against the head of a short swamp joining to the south meadows lying between this said neck and the half neck then to run from the head of this half neck swamp on a northeast line northeast upon the brushy plains all the above said land with the appurtenances unto the said John Ketcham and Jonas Platt their heirs and assigns from the said Mame Suructon and Will Chippie their heirs executors and administrators unto the sole and only proper use benefit and behoove of them the said John Ketcham and Jonas Platt their heirs and assigns forever and the said Mame Suructon and Will Chippie do for themselves their heirs executors and administrators promise covenant grant to and with the said John Ketcham and Jonas Platt their heirs and assigns that we said Mame Suructon and Will Chippie now at the sealing and delivery hereof stands and is solely only and rightfully ceased of the said premises and until the estate hereby to granted bargained and sold shall be sufficient past unto and rested in the said John Ketcham and Jonas Platt their heirs and assigns shall remain ceased of the said premises of a good absolute and perfect estate in fee simple to them their heirs and assigns forever without any manner of condition right title or limitation of use that may after destroy discontinue or evict the same and that the premises now are and forever hereafter shall be and remain to the said John Ketcham and Jonas Platt their heirs and assigns freely and clearly acquitted released and discharged of and from all and all manner of other and former bargains sales alienations mortgages judgments, executions extents and all other charges and encumbrance whatsoever and further the said Mame, Suructon and Will Chippie here in before granted and mentioned premises with the appurtenances unto the said John Ketcham and Jonas Platt their heirs and assigns shall and will warrant and forever by these presents defend in witness whereof we the said Mame, Suructon and Will Chippie have here unto set to our hands and fixed our seal this May 1, 1697, in the year of our Lord Christ.

Signed, sealed and delivered in sight and presence of us. his James Ï Chichester mark Edward Higbee Jacob Brush Charles Pamequa Timothy Conkling.

Mame Ï his mark Suructon Ï his mark Will Ï Chippie his mark.

Memorandum that on the May 13, 1697 appeared before John Wickes one of their Majesty’s Justices of the Peace for the County of Suffolk the within named Mame, Will Chippie and Suructon and do acknowledge the within written conveyance to be their free and voluntary act and deed.

Attested by John Wickes

Ë  Ë  Ë

1698, May 4 – Baiting Place Purchase; Recorded as Indian Deed to the Trustees of the Town

The deed is transcribed as published in the Huntington Town Records books. Following the deed transcription is a revised, “easier to read” version printed in in “blue.”

In the book “Huntington – Babylon Town History” (1937), it was stated: “Roughly speaking, the western portion of Huntington South [Town of Babylon] was in the Baiting Place Indian Purchase, the eastern portion in the Squaw Pit Purchase,  while the Upland Purchase stretched across the whole town at the head of the eleven necks.” [27]

At the time of this agreement, New York was a colonial province of England. Richard Coote (1636-1701), 1^st Earl of Bellomont was the Colonial Governor of New York from 1698 until his death on March 5, 1701. Fletcher was succeeded by Lieutenant Governor Jon Nanfan (1634-1716) who served as acting Governor until Edward Hyde, 3^rd Earl of Clarendon (also known as Lord Cornbuy) was appointed. Following the death of Queen Mary II (1662-1694), England was ruled by her husband King William III (1650-1702). This agreement refers to “King William III.” 

Underlined in the “blue” text, the agreement was for lands in the western part of the town, north of the necks. Details or a specific sum for compensation to the Native Americans were not recorded in this agreement. It only mentions that the agreement was made “in consideration of a reasonable sum, in hand already received in current money of this province.”

_____________________________

1698, May 4 – Baiting Place Purchase; Indian Deed to the Trustees of the Town ^[28]

This Indenture made the forth Daie of May and in y^e tenth yeare of y^e Reigne of our soverign Lord, King Wiliam the third, by y^e grace of god, King of England, scotland, france and Irland, defender of y^e faith, and In y^e grace of our Lord 1698, between sewamas, formerly called mane and willam Cheipey, maseapegue Indans, belonging to Queanes County, on Nasaw Island, in y^e provence of New Yorke, of y^e one parte, and the trustees of y^e free houlders and Comanalitey of y^e Towne of Huntington, In y^e County of Suffolk, In y^e Island and provance Afor sd., of y^e other part, witnesseth that y^e sd. sacwamas and willam Chipie for and in Consideration of a reasonable summ, In hand all Readey Reseaved In Curant Money of this provance, at or before y^e ensealing and delivery heree by y^e fore menconed trustees, of y^e Towne of Huntington, the Resepte whereof wee, y^e aforesaid sewamas and willam Chepie, doe heerby acknowledg, and our selves theare with to bee fully satesfied. Contented and paid, and theareof and hearewith & of and from every part and parsell thearof doth hereby aquit, exonerate and discharge y^e afore sd. trustees of y^e Towne of Huntington, theare heyers executors, and Admin^rs, hath given granted bargned sould enfeefed. Released and Confirmed, and doe by thes prsence, bargain sell, enfeef, Release & Confirm unto y^e afore said trustees, theare heyers and assignes for ever, oll that parcell or tract of land and beach, the beach bounded by the west side of masepegue gut, and Running westward to y^e patten Layne, y^e upland being bounded as Aolleweth : on y^e north by our South bounds that was formerly marked out by stoaneing, bounded on y^e west by Thomas Powells Loyne to y^e head of masapegue east branch, so running eastward to y^e head of rugua swamp, and so running eastward to the land on y^e West Neck bought of John Kitcham and James Chichester, of y^e above sd. sewamas, and so Running east ward by y^e sd. John Ketchams and Jonas Platts Land, Runing by their East Loyen till coming within forty Rods of y^e Indan path, on y^e west side of y^e great Neck, and Running Eastward by y^e Land all Redey purchased on y^e fore sd. Neeke, and so streching eastward to y^e medell of Cuppuauge, bounded on y^e South by John Woods Land, and so streeching northward to y^e south path by y^e single pine, and so bounds on y^e east side by y^e south path till it comes to our south bounds, laid out by Suanemy, to gether with all & singular y^e hereditements and appurtnances there unto belonging or in aney wise appartaining, and all y^e Right, tytle, intrest, posesion, property, Claime and demand what soever of them y^e sd. sewames & willam Chopy, made unto y^e sd Land and beach and in & to all & every part and parsell theare of, to have and to hould y^e sd. parsell of Land & beach with y^e appurtenances unto y^e sd trustees & free houlders of y^e Comanallity of y^e town of Huntington thear heyers, executors ad^r and assignes unto y^e sofe & proper use & behoofe of them y^e sd. trustees, theare heyers and assignes for ever & y^e sd. sewamas & willam Chopie for them selves there heyers and asignes that they now, at y^e ensealing & delivery hereof, standeth & is soley & Right fully sezed of y^e sd. promises of a good, absolute and Perfect estate, In fee simple, to them theare, heyers and assignes for ever, without aney maner of Condition, Right, tytle or Limitation of use y^t may after destroy discontinue of efect y^e same, and that y^e premises now at y^e ensealing shall be & Remaine to y^e sd. trustees theare heyers & assignes free & Clearelly a quited Released & discharged of & from all and all manner of other and former barguins sales, alinations, morgages, Judgments executions, extentes, and all, other charges & incumbrances what so ever and further y^t y^e sd sewamas & willam Chopey, and theare heyers, herein before granted & menconed premises, with y^e appurtnances, unto y^e sd. trustees, thear heyers and assignes, shall and will warant & for ever by thes p^rsents defend ; in wittnes whereof, wee y^e above sd. sewamas and willam Chopy have heare unto set to our hands and fixed our seales y^e daye and yeare above written.

Signed sealed and delivered in the presence of us Thomas Powell sr Thomas Katcham

his Seaw Ï Amas     [Seal.] mark his Willa Ï Chepy     [Seal.] mark

It is to be understood by every whome thes presence wrightings may Consearne that y^e within Named Indians have Reserved y^e privelege In this Deed of sall of fishing, fouling and hunting, and of gathering of plume and hucel bearyes In all y^e Land heare purchased, they have Reserved that priveledge to them selves.

Memorandam that on the fourth day of May 1698, apeared before John Wickes, one of his maj^tis Justises of the pease for the County of Suffolk, the within mentoned Sewamas & willan Chepy, and both acknowledged the with in writen convaiance to bee their free and vollantary act and deed. -- John Wickes

Memorandum that on y^e 14^th day of may 1698, apeared before John Wickes, one of his maj^tis Justises of the peace for the County of Suffolk, wamas, sachem of sequatak and chippows, and doth acknowledge Them selves to bee fully satisfied and well content with The within writen convaiance as if it had been their act and deed. -- John Wickes

This bill of sale is Recorded In page y^e 5^th by me -- John Ketcham, Clerke.

_____________________________

1698, May 4 – Baiting Place Purchase; Indian Deed to the Trustees of the Town

This indenture made May 4, 1698 in the tenth year of the reign of our Sovereign Lord, King William III, by the grace of God, King of England, Scotland, France and Ireland, Defender of the Faith, and in the grace of our Lord, between Sewamas, formerly called Mane and William Chippie, Massapequa Indians, belonging to Queens County, on Nassau Island, in the province of New York, of the one part, and the trustees of the freeholders and commonality of the Town of Huntington, in the County of Suffolk, in the island and province aforesaid, of the other part, witness that the said Sacwamas and William Chippie for and in consideration of a reasonable sum, in hand already received in current money of this province, at or before the sealing and delivery here by the aforementioned trustees, of the Town of Huntington, the receipt whereof we, the aforesaid Sewamas and William Chippie, do hereby acknowledge, and ourselves there with to be fully satisfied. Contented and paid, and thereof and here with and of and from every part and parcel thereof do hereby acquit, exonerate and discharge the aforesaid trustees of the Town of Huntington, their heirs, executors, and administers, have given granted bargained sold enfeoffed, released and confirmed, and do by these presence, bargain, sell, enforce, release and confirm unto the aforesaid trustees, their heirs and assigns forever, all that parcel or tract of land and beach, the beach bounded by the west side of Massapequa Gut, and running westward to the patent line, the upland being bounded as allowed: on the north by our south bounds that was formerly marked out by stoning, bounded on the west by Thomas Powell’s lane to the head of Massapequa east branch, so running eastward to the head of Rugua^[29] swamp, and so running eastward to the land on the west neck bought of John Ketcham and James Chichester, of the above said Sewamas, and so running eastward by the said John Ketcham’s and Jonas Platts’ land, running by their east lane until coming within 40 rods of the Indian path, on the west side of the great neck, and running eastward by the land already purchased on the aforesaid neck, and so stretching eastward to the middle of Copiague Neck, bounded on the south by John Woods land, and so stretching northward to the south path by the single pine, and so bounds on the east side by the south path till it comes to our south bounds, laid out by Suanemy, together with all and singular the hereditaments and appurtenances there unto belonging or in any wise appertaining, and all the right, title, interest, possession, property, claim and demand whatsoever of them the said Sewames and William Chippie, made unto the said land and beach and in and to all and every part and parcel thereof, to have and to hold the said parcel of land and beach with the appurtenances unto the said trustees and free holders of the commonality of the Town of Huntington their heirs, executors, administrators and assigns unto the safe and proper use and behoove of them the said trustees, their heirs and assigns forever and the said Sewamas and William Chippie for themselves their heirs and assigns that they now, at the sealing and delivery hereof, stand and is solely and rightfully seized of the said promises of a good, absolute and perfect estate, in fee simple, to them their heirs and assigns forever, without any manner of condition, right, title or limitation of use that may after destroy, discontinue or effect the same, and that the premises now at the sealing shall be and remain to the said trustees their heirs and assigns free and clearly acquitted released and discharged of and from all and all manner of other and former bargains, sales, alienations, mortgages, judgments, executions, extents, and all, other charges and encumbrances whatsoever and further that the said Sewamas and William Chippie, and their heirs, herein before granted and mentioned premises, with the appurtenances, unto the said trustees, their heirs and assigns, shall and will warrant and forever by these presents defend; in witness whereof, we the above said Sewamas and William Chippie have here unto set to our hands and fixed our seals the day and year above written.

Signed, sealed and delivered in the presence of us Thomas Powell Sr. Thomas Ketcham

his Seaw Ï Amas     [Seal.] mark his Willa Ï Chepy     [Seal.] mark

It is to be understood by every whom these presence writings may concern that the within named Indians have reserved the privilege in this deed of sale of fishing, fowling and hunting, and of gathering of plume and huckleberries in all the land here purchased, they have reserved that privilege to themselves.

Memorandum that on May 4, 1698, appeared before John Wickes, one of His Majesty’s Justices of the Peace for the County of Suffolk, the within mentioned Sewamas and William Chippie, and both acknowledged the within written conveyance to be their free and voluntary act and deed. -- John Wickes

Memorandum that on May 14, 1698, appeared before John Wickes, one of His Majesty’s Justices of the Peace for the County of Suffolk, Wameaus, sachem of Sequatak and Chippows, and do acknowledge themselves to be fully satisfied and well content with the within written conveyance as if it had been their act and deed. -- John Wickes

This bill of sale is recorded on the fifth page by me. -- John Ketcham, Clerk.

Ë  Ë  Ë

1699, December 16 – Squaw Pit Purchase; Recorded as Indian Deed to Trustees of the Town

The deed is transcribed as published in the Huntington Town Records books. Following the deed transcription is a revised, “easier to read” version printed in in “blue.”

A hand written copy of this land agreement appears on the preceding two pages.

In the Huntington Town Records, Editor Charles R. Streeter published this note “I am informed that this is the deed commonly called the Squaw or Squam Pit Purchase. The title was vested in the trustees. How it subsequently came to be vested in the large number of persons who occupied it, and whose assigns or descendants now occupy it, will perhaps appear by consulting the large volume of Records concerning the Squaw Pit divisions, now in the hands of private parties at Babylon.—C. R. S.”

In the book “Huntington – Babylon Town History” (1937), it was stated: “Roughly speaking, the western portion of Huntington South [Town of Babylon] was in the Baiting Place Indian Purchase, the eastern portion in the Squaw Pit Purchase,  while the Upland Purchase stretched across the whole town at the head of the eleven necks.” [30]

At the time of this agreement, New York was a colonial province of England. Richard Coote (1636-1701), 1^st Earl of Bellomont was the Colonial Governor of New York from 1698 until his death on March 5, 1701. Fletcher was succeeded by Lieutenant Governor Jon Nanfan (1634-1716) who served as acting Governor until Edward Hyde, 3^rd Earl of Clarendon (also known as Lord Cornbuy) was appointed. Following the death of Queen Mary II (1662-1694), England was ruled by her husband King William III (1650-1702).  This agreement refers to King William III.

Underlined in the “blue” text, the agreement was for all land that had not already been acquired, within the Town. Details or a specific sum for compensation to the Native Americans were not recorded in this agreement. It only mentions that the agreement was made “in consideration of a certain sum of good and lawful money of New York, to them in hand paid.”

_____________________________

1699, December 16 – Squaw Pit Purchase; Indian Deed to Trustees of the Town ^[31]

This Indenture made the sixteenth day of desember in y^e eleventh year of y^e Reigne of our soveraign Lord, willam y^e third, by the Grace of God King of England, Scotland, france & Irland. Defender of y^e faith and In y^e yeare of our blesed Lord and Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ, one thousand six hundred, ninty and nine Between wameehus, Indian Sacham, nepanick, Chepans, mamsewaren, nahanasguin, whawaweeram, pampatt, Charles Pamegue, toseskins, & will Cheppy, Indians, natives of seguetague, within y^e bounds of Huntington, In y^e County of Suffolk, on y^e Island nasaw, in y^e Colony of new yorke, in Amereca, of y^e one parte, and John Wood Esq^r John Wickes Esq^r, thomas wickes, Gent, Jonas wood, gent. Goodman Epenetus Platt, gent. and John Adams, Carpentar, as trustees of y^e free holders & comonality of y^e towne of Huntington aforesaid, of y^e other part. Whereas thomas Higbee, gent., John wood Esq^r, & John wickes Esq^r were the twelfth day of this instant, desember at a meeting of y^e trustees of y^e freeholders & Comonality of y^e sd. town of Huntington, then have ordered & appoynted to treate and agree with y^e Indians about all y^e Land yet unpurchased within y^e patten of y^e sd. town, and to purchase y^e same, or otherwise to secure the same to y^e towne of Huntington, in such wayes or methods as they may or shall see cause to Covenent for the good of y^e sd. towne, Ratifying and Confirmeing all & whatsoever y^e said thomas Higbee, John wood and John wickes shall act and Doe in & about y^e premisses, as by y^e said order or deputy don under y^e hands of Jonas wood, & John Ketcham, two of y^e trustees aforesd, and the Comon seale of y^e said town doth and May more at Larg appear; now, this Indenture wittnesseth that y^e sd wamehus, nepanick, Chepans namsewaren nahanasquin whawaweeram, Pampatt, Charles pamequa and Towskinse will Cheepy, Indians, for and In consideration of a certaine sume of good and Lawfull money of new yorke, to them in hand paid by y^e sd. John wood John wickes, thomas wickes, Jonas wood, John Ketcham, Epenetus Platt, John Adams, at or before y^e ensealing & Delivery of thes presents, y^e Resepte whereof they y^e sd. wameehus nepanecke, Chepans, namsewaren, nahanasquin, whawaweeram, Pampatt, Charles Pameguague, toskins & will. Cheepy, doe hereby acknowledge & themselves and each of them to be thearwith fully satisfied, contented and paid & thereof and of every parte & parcell thareeof, they doe for ever by thes presence acquite & Discharge y^e sd. John Wood, John Wickes. thomas wickes, Jonas wood, John Ketcham, Epenetus Platt, John Adams, theare heiers, executers adm^rs and successors for ever, have given, granted bargned, sold, allined, enfiofed, Released, confirmed & doe by thes presence freely clearly, & absolutely give, grant, bargan, sell, allien enfiofe, Release & Confirme unto y^e sd. John wood, John wickes, thomas wickes, Jonas wood, John Ketcham, Eppenetus Platt & John Adams, and their successors, trustees of y^e freehoulders & comonality of y^e towne of Huntington for ever, all tract of Land sittuate. Lying, beeing in y^e bounds of Huntington aforesaid, being bounded as followeth: that is to say north by a line of Markt trees, between y^e sd. Indians & y^e Inhabitants of Huntington aforesaid ; east according to y^e bounds sett forth in y^e Patent of y^e said Town of Huntington ; south by y^e purchased neckes and west by y^e south path that Leads to Capiague, together with all & singular y^e Rights, priveleges, heredetements & appurtenances to y^e same belonging, or in any wise appertaining, to have and to hould y^e sd. tract of Land & premises to them y^e sd. John wood. John wickes, thomas wickes, Jonas wood, John Ketcham Epenetus Platt & John Adams & theaire successors, trustees of y^e free houlders & Comonality of y^e towne of Huntington, to y^e use & uses herein after exprest & to noe other use & uses whatsoever, that is to say to y^e use of them y^e sd. wameehus, nepanicke, Chepans, mamsewanen, nahanasguin, whawaweeram pampatt, Charles Pameguage, toskinese will Cheepy & theaire heires & y^e heires of each & every of them for ever provided all wayes & it is y^e coveinent and meaning of thes presence y^t it is & shall be Lawful for y^e sd. wameehus nepanick Chepans mamsewaren, nahanasquin, whawaweeram pampatt, Charles pameguage, taskines & will Cheepy & eaithar & every of them & their heires & y^e heires of each & every of them at any & all time & times after y^e sealing & Delivery of thes presence to bargain, sell, assure & convey y^e uses of y^e before Menconed tract of Land, or any part thereof, to y^e trustees of y^s free houlders & comonality of y^e sd. towne of Huntington for y^e time being and their successors to have & to hould to & for y^e use & uses of y^e Respective freeholders of y^e sd Town of Huntington, according to their Respective Rights & properties within y^e towne only & to no other person or persons use or uses whatsoever, anything herein contained to y^e contrary in any wise not withstanding. In testimony whereof the partyes to these presents have hereunto sett their hands & fixed theare seales y^e day and yeare first above written.

Sealed and Delivered in y^e presence of

Dinah Willis his whawarem Ï marke     [Seal.] his pampat Ï marke     [Seal.] his will Cheepy Ï marke     [Seal.] his Mumswaren Ï mark     [Seal.] his Toskins Ï mark     [Seal.]

Wamahus Ï his mark     [Seal.] Nepenick Ï his mark     [Seal.] his Chepons Ï mark     [Seal.] his Nahanascet Ï marke     [Seal.] Charles Pemequoge     [Seal.]

Thomas Williss Junr Thomas Willets senr

On y^e 22: of March aneo. Do: 1699 personally apeared before mee wawmehaus and Charles parties, to y^e above indenture, and haveing heard y^e same Read and being made accquainted with y^e purpert and meaning thereof, did in behalfe of themselves and theren conserned therein acknowledge the same to be theare act and Deed in my manner of st Goorges Day and yeare, supr.

M^r will Smith

_____________________________

1699, December 16 – Squaw Pit Purchase; Indian Deed to Trustees of the Town

This indenture made December 16, 1699 in the eleventh year of the reign of our Sovereign Lord, William III, by the Grace of God King of England, Scotland, France and Ireland. Defender of the Faith and in the year of our blessed Lord and Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ, between Wameaus, Indian Sachem, Nepanick, Chepans, Mamsewaren, Nahanasguin, Whawaweeram, Pompatt, Charles Pamequa, Tosekins, and Will Chippie, Indians, natives of Secatogue, within  the bounds of Huntington, in the County of Suffolk, on the Island Nassau, in the colony of New York, in America, of the one part, and John Wood, Esquire, John Wickes, Esquire, Thomas Wickes, gentleman, Jonas Wood, gentleman, Goodman Epenetus Platt, gentleman and John Adams, carpenter, as trustees of the free holders and commonality of the Town of Huntington aforesaid, of the other part. Whereas Thomas Higbee, gentleman, John Wood Esquire, and John Wickes Esquire were the 12th day of this December at a meeting of the trustees of the freeholders and commonality of the said Town of Huntington, then have ordered and appointed to treat and agree with the Indians about all the land yet unpurchased within the patten of the said town, and to purchase the same, or otherwise to secure the same to the Town of Huntington, in such ways or methods as they may or shall see cause to covenant for the good of the said town, ratifying and confirming all and whatsoever the said Thomas Higbee, John Wood and John Wickes shall act and do in and about the premises, as by the said order or deputy done under the hands of Jonas Wood, and John Ketcham, two of the trustees aforesaid, and the common seal of the said town do and may more at large appear; now, this Indenture witness that the said Wameaus, Nepanick, Chepans Namsewaren Nahanasquin whawaweeram, Pompatt, Charles Pamequa and Towskinse Will Chippie, Indians, for and in consideration of a certain sum of good and lawful money of New York, to them in hand paid by the said John Wood John Wickes, Thomas Wickes, Jonas Wood, John Ketcham, Epenetus Platt, John Adams, at or before the sealing and delivery of these presents, the receipt whereof they the said Wameaus Nepanecke, Chepans, Namsewaren, Nahanasquin, Whawaweeram, Pompatt, Charles Pamequa, Tosekins and Will Chippie, do hereby acknowledge and themselves and each of them to be therewith fully satisfied, contented and paid and thereof and of every part and parcel thereof, they do forever by these presence acquit and discharge the said John Wood, John Wickes. Thomas Wickes, Jonas Wood, John Ketcham, Epenetus Platt, John Adams, their heirs, executers administrators and successors forever, have given, granted bargained, sold, alienated, enforced, released, confirmed and do by these presence freely clearly, and absolutely give, grant, bargain, sell, align, enforce, release and confirm unto the said John Wood, John Wickes, Thomas Wickes, Jonas Wood, John Ketcham, Epenetus Platt and John Adams, and their successors, trustees of the freeholders and commonality of the Town of Huntington forever, all tract of land situate. Lying, being in the bounds of Huntington aforesaid, being bounded as follows: that is to say north by a line of marked trees, between the said Indians and the inhabitants of Huntington aforesaid; east according to the bounds set forth in the patent of the said Town of Huntington; south by the purchased necks and west by the south path that leads to Copiague, together with all and singular the rights, privileges, hereditaments and appurtenances to the same belonging, or in anywise appertaining, to have and to hold the said tract of land and premises to them the said John Wood, John Wickes, Thomas Wickes, Jonas Wood, John Ketcham Epenetus Platt and John Adams and their successors, trustees of the free holders and commonality of the Town of Huntington, to the use and uses herein after expressed and to no other use and uses whatsoever, that is to say to the use of them the said Wameaus, Nepanicke, Chepans, Mamsewanen, Nahanasguin, Whawaweeram, Pompatt, Charles Pamequa, Tosekins, Will Chippie and their heirs and the heirs of each and every of them forever provided all ways and it is the convenient and meaning of these presence that it is and shall be lawful for the said Wameaus, Nepanick, Chepans, Mamsewaren, Nahanasquin, Whawaweeram, Pompatt, Charles Pamequa, Tosekins and Will Chippie and either and every of them and their heirs and the heirs of each and every of them at any and all time and times after the sealing and delivery of these presence to bargain, sell, assure and convey the uses of the before mentioned tract of land, or any part thereof, to the trustees of the free holders and commonality of the said town of Huntington for the time being and their successors to have and to hold to and for the use and uses of the respective freeholders of the said Town of Huntington, according to their respective rights and properties within the town only and to no other person or persons use or uses whatsoever, anything herein contained to the contrary in anywise notwithstanding. In testimony whereof the parties to these presents have hereunto set their hands and fixed their seals the day and year first above written.

Sealed and delivered in the presence of

Dinah Willis his whawarem Ï marke     [Seal.] his pampat Ï marke     [Seal.] his will Chippie Ï marke     [Seal.] his Mumswaren Ï mark     [Seal.] his Tosekins Ï mark     [Seal.]

Wameaus Ï his mark     [Seal.] Nepenick Ï his mark     [Seal.] his Chepons Ï mark     [Seal.] his Nahanascet Ï marke     [Seal.] Charles Pamequa     [Seal.]

Thomas Williss Jr. Thomas Willets Sr.

On March 22, 1699, personally appeared before me Wameaus and Charles parties, to the above indenture, and having heard the same read and being made acquainted with the purpose and meaning thereof, did on behalf of themselves and therein concerned therein acknowledge the same to be their act and deed in my manner of St. George’s Day and year, superior.

Mr. Will Smith

 

Ë  Ë  Ë

1702, April 14 – Recorded as Indian Deed to Trustees

The deed is transcribed as published in the Huntington Town Records books. Following the deed transcription is a revised, “easier to read” version printed in in “blue.”

This deed is typical of the deeds between the Town of Huntington and the Native Americans. It is unique in that it makes reference to the English King William III who died in the month before this transaction. Unbeknownst to the New York Colony, the Monarch had died and was succeeded by Queen Anne. It is a small illustration of how communications between continents was slow, by modern comparison. 

At the time of this agreement, New York was a colonial province of England. Following the death of Richard Coote (1636-1701), 1^st Earl of Bellomont on March 5, 1701, Lieutenant Governor Jon Nanfan (1634-1716) served as acting Governor until Edward Hyde, 3^rd Earl of Clarendon (also known as Lord Cornbuy) arrived in the colony on May 3, 1702. Following the death of King William II, England was ruled by Queen Anne, who ascended to the throne on March 8, 1702 and reigned until her death in 1714. 

Underlined in the “blue” text, the agreement was for a parcel of land on the Sumpwams Neck. Details or a specific sum for compensation to the Native Americans were not recorded in this agreement. It only mentions that the agreement was made “in consideration of a certain sum of good and lawful money of New York.”

_____________________________

1702, April 14 –Indian Deed to Trustees ^[32]

This Indenture Mad y^e fortenth Day of Aprill in y^e fortenth year of y^e Reigne of our Sovering Lord willam y^e Third by y^e grace of God King of England Scotland france & Irland Defender of y^e faith & In y^e year of our Lord Christ on thousand seven hundred and two Betwenn weamaus Chepous pompot Memacawarin Charles pamequa Indan natives of Seaguatague In y^e County of Suffolk of y^e one part and John wickes John wood Thomas wickes Epenetus Platt John Ketcham Richard Brush Jonathan Jarves y^e presant Trustees of y^e freehoulders and Comonality of y^e Town of Huntington of y^e other part whereas wameaus Indan Sacham Chepous pompot will Harnet momsawaren Charles pamequa Joseph Chepous Warasn the fortenth day of Desember In y^e Eleventh year of y^e Reigne of our Lord y^e King abovesaid by theare Certain deed Indented and sealed with theare Seales It is Covenanted by & Betwen y^e sd Indans & the trustees of y^e freehoulders and Comanality of y^e sd Town of Huntington that It shall & May be Lawfull for y^e said Indans or either of them or their haiers at Anie time after y^e Ensealing and Delivery of y^e sd Indenture to bargan sel assuer & Convey y^e uses of a Certain tract of Land in y^e same Indenture Menconed & set forth or anie part thereof to y^e trustees of y^e freehoulders and Comonility of Huntington afor sd for y^e time beeing & theare sucessors to have & to hould to & for y^e use and uses of y^e Respective freehoulders of y^e sd Town of Huntington acording to thear Respective Rights & proporties as by y^e sd Deed Entred In y^e Records of the sd County of Suffolke Refferance thereunto being had doth & May more at Larg appeear now this Indenture wittnesseth that y^e sd wameauas Chepous pompot will harnet momsawaren Charles pemegua Joseph Chepous warasute for and In consideration of a certain sum of good & Lawfull Money of new york to them in hand paid by y^e sd John wickes John wood Thomas wick Epenetus platt John Ketcham Richard Brush Jonathan Jarves trustees at & before y^e ensealing & Delivery of these presence y^e Resept whereof they do hereby acknowledge and them selves & each & every of them to be therewith fully satesfied contented & paid & thereof & of every part & parsell thereof they do for ever by thes presance aquit & Discharge y^e sd John wickes & trustees & thear sucessors have Granted Remised Released & for ever quit claimed & Do by thes p^resence grant Remise and for ever quit Clame unto y^e sd John wickes John wood Thomas wickes Epenetus Platt John Ketcham Richard Brush Jonathan Jarves trustees of y^e freehoulders & Comanality of y^e sd Town of Huntington & thear Sucessors for ever In thear quiat & peacable posesion now beeing all that a certain tract of Land situate lying & beeing on a certain Neck on y^e south sid of y^e Island Nasaw Comanly Called Sampaumes within y^e bounds of Huntington afor sd bounded on y^e west sid by y^e Midall of y^e River or brook on y^e East Sid by our patten Loyne on y^e south by our former purchas on y^e north by y^e heads of sd swamps together with all & singular y^e Rights & privlages hereditements and appurtenances to y^e same belonging or In anie wise appertaining to have and to hould y^e sd tract of land with y^e appurtenances to them y^e sd John wickes John wood Thomas wickes Epenetus Platt John Ketcham Richard Brush Jonathan Jarves Trustees of y^e freehoulders & Comonality of y^e town of Huntington aforesd and thear Sucessors to & for thear us & uses hereafter expreste to no other us & uses what soever that is to say to y^e onely proper us benifet & behoof of y^e sd John wickes Captain Thomas Higbee Captain Thomas wickes Epenetus Platt Jonathan Jarves Nathanill foster John Adams Thomas Fleet Phillip Udall Timothy Conklin Joseph wood Jonathan Chechester freehoulders of y^e sd Town of Huntington and thear haiers and assignes for ever In equall proporcon as tenants in Comon without any pretence of joynt Tennancy or survivorship all ways provided and it is y^e true intent & Meaning of thes presants that It shall & May be lawfuell for y^e sd wameahus Chepous pompot will Harnet Mamsuaren Charles Pamequa thare haiers and successors to hunt fish and to foule and to gather Crambaryes within y^e bounds & Limets abovesd aniething herein Contained to y^e Contrary In any wise notwithstanding In testemoney whereof these partyes to these presants have hereunto sett thear hands & fixed thear seales y^e day and year first above written.

Sealed and Delivered In ye presence of Thomas Smith Thomas Ketcham John Inkersole his marke Ï

Joseph Chepous his Ï Marke Warasute his marke Ï Memsawaren Ï his marke Wawarum his Ï marke

Wameas his Ï Marke Chepous Ï his marke mark Pampot Ï his his will Ï wameaus marke Charles Pamequa Rowumck Ï his marke

Memorandum that on y^e fortenth day of Aprill 1702 Apeared before John Wood on of his Maj^ests Justises of y^e peace for y^e County of suffolke y^e within named wameauhos Chepous pompot will harnet Charles pamequa Memsuarin Rowuck Joseph Chepous Warasut and Doth Acknowledge y^e within written Convaiance to be thear free & voluntary act and Deed.

Test. John Wood

_____________________________

1702, April 14 – Indian Deed to Trustees

This indenture made the April 14, 1702 in the fourteenth year of the reign of our Sovereign Lord William III^[33] by the grace of God King of England, Scotland, France and Ireland Defender of the Faith and in the year of our Lord Christ between Wameaus, Chepous, Pompatt, Memacawarin, Charles Pamequa, Indian natives of Secatogue in the County of Suffolk of the one part and John Wickes, John Wood, Thomas Wickes, Epenetus Platt, John Ketcham, Richard Brush, and Jonathan Jarvis the present trustees of the freeholders and commonality of the Town of Huntington of the other part whereas Wameaus Indian Sacham, Chepous, Pompatt, Will Harnet, momsawaren, Charles Pamequa, Joseph Chepous, and Warasn the 14^th day of December in the eleventh year of the reign of our Lord the King abovesaid by their certain deed indented and sealed with their seals it is covenanted by and between the said Indians and the trustees of the freeholders and commonality of the said Town of Huntington that it shall and may be lawful for the said Indians or either of them or their heirs at any time after the sealing and delivery of the said indenture to bargain sell assure and convey the uses of a certain tract of land in the same indenture mentioned and set forth or any part thereof to the trustees of the freeholders and commonality of Huntington aforesaid for the time being and their successors to have and to hold to and for the use and uses of the respective freeholders of the said Town of Huntington according to their respective rights and properties as by the said deed entered in the records of the said County of Suffolk reference thereunto being had done and may more at large appear now this indenture witness that the said Wameaus, Chepous, Pompatt, Will Harnet, momsawaren, Charles pemegua, Joseph Chepous, and Warasute for and in consideration of a certain sum of good and lawful money of New York to them in hand paid by the said John Wickes, John Wood, Thomas Wick, Epenetus Platt, John Ketcham, Richard Brush and Jonathan Jarvis trustees at and before the sealing and delivery of these presence the receipt whereof they do hereby acknowledge and themselves and each and every of them to be therewith fully satisfied, contented and paid and thereof and of every part and parcel thereof they do forever by these presence acquit and discharge the said John Wickes and trustees and their successors have granted, remised, released and forever acquit claim and do by these presence grant remise and forever acquit claim unto the said John Wickes, John Wood, Thomas Wickes, Epenetus Platt, John Ketcham, Richard Brush and Jonathan Jarvis trustees of the freeholders and commonality of the said Town of Huntington and their successors forever in their quiet and peaceable possession now being all that a certain tract of land situated lying and being on a certain neck on the south side of the Island Nassau commonly called Sumpwams within the bounds of Huntington aforesaid bounded on the west side by the middle of the river or brook on the east side by our patent line on the south by our former purchase on the north by the heads of said swamps together with all and singular the rights and privileges hereditaments and appurtenances to the same belonging or in anywise appertaining to have and to hold the said tract of land with the appurtenances to them the said John Wickes, John Wood, Thomas Wickes, Epenetus Platt, John Ketcham, Richard Brush, and Jonathan Jarvis trustees of the freeholders and commonality of the Town of Huntington aforesaid and their successors to and for their use and uses hereafter expressed to no other use and uses whatsoever that is to say to the only proper use benefit and behoove of the said John Wickes, Captain Thomas Higbee, Captain Thomas Wickes, Epenetus Platt, Jonathan Jarvis, Nathaniel Foster, John Adams, Thomas Fleet, Phillip Udall, Timothy Conklin, Joseph Wood and Jonathan Chichester freeholders of the said Town of Huntington and their heirs and assigns forever in equal proportion as tenants in common without any pretense of joint tenancy or survivorship always provided and it is the true intent and meaning of these presents that it shall and may be lawful for the said Wameaus, Chepous, Pompot, Will Harnet, Mamsuaren, and Charles Pamequa their heirs and successors to hunt fish and to fowl and to gather cranberries within the bounds and limits above said anything herein contained to the contrary in anywise notwithstanding in testimony whereof these parties to these presents have hereunto set their hands and fixed their seals the day and year first above written.

Sealed and delivered in the presence of

Thomas Smith Thomas Ketcham John Inkersole his mark Ï

Joseph Chepous his Ï Mark Warasute his mark Ï Memsawaren Ï his mark Wawarum his Ï mark

Wameaus his Ï Mark Chepous Ï his mark mark Pampot Ï his his Will Ï Wameaus mark Charles Pamequa Rowumck Ï his mark

Memorandum that on the April 14, 1702 appeared before John Wood one of his Majesty’s Justices of the Peace for the County of Suffolk the within named Wameaus, Chepous, Pompatt, Will Harnet, Charles Pamequa, Memsuarin, Rowuck, Joseph Chepous, and Warasut and do acknowledge the within written conveyance to be their free and voluntary act and deed.

Attested by John Wood

 

Ë  Ë  Ë

1755, January 23 – Recorded as Indian Deed to Trustees

The deed is transcribed as published in the Huntington Town Records books. Following the deed transcription is a revised, “easier to read” version printed in in “blue.”

This was the last deed recorded between Town of Huntington and the Native Americans. It had been nearly 50 years since the previous deed between the parties. By the mid-1700s, the local government had acquired or assume all land within the Town of Huntington, including that which became the Town of Babylon.    

At the time of this agreement, New York was a colonial province of England. James De Lancey was the acting Colonial Governor of New York from 1753 until September 1755 when Sir Charles Hardy arrived and assumed the role of Governor. Great Britain was ruled by King George II, who reigned from 1727-1760. This agreement makes no reference to the Monarch.

Underlined in the “blue” text, the agreement was for land in the eastern part of the town and referenced the Town’s 1666 patent from the Colonial government. This agreement did not record details of the compensation. It only states that the agreement was made “for a valuable consideration to them paid in hand also with one barrel of cider.”

_____________________________

1755, January 23 – Indian Deed to Trustees ^[34]

To all Christion People to whome these Presents shall Com Greting know y^e that we thomous Chereeom Endion Sachiem and Jeams Cason Endion and the rest of the under signers of the township Of Huntington and County of Suffolk Island of Nawsaw and Provence of New Yorke of the one part and Cornelious Hart Jese Carll Isac Smith together with the Patentees or trustes and thare assosteates of the same town County and Provenc of the other part Witnes that We thomas Chericom Endion Sachiem and Jeames Cosen Endion for A Valibele Consideration to them Paid in Hand allso with one Barel of sider Before the Insealing and Delivery of this present We the said thomas Charicom Endion Sachem and Jeames Casen Endian Due Acnoledg and Owne thare with to Be fully satisfied Contented and thare of and of Every part and Pasels there of Doth Hereby Acquit Exonerate and Discharg the said Cornelious Hartt Jese Carll Isac Smith and the patentees Or trustees and thare Asoseats and Thare Heirs and Asigns for Ever. Hath Given Granted Bargined sold allinated Released and Confirmed and by these presents Do Give Grant Bargin Sail Alien Releas and Confirme Unto the Above said Cornelious Hartt Jese Carll Isac Smith the Patentee or trustes and their Asosheats and their Heirs and Asinge for ever all peses or parsels of Land setuating Lying and being in the township of Above said bounded As foloweth Westerd by the parth that Leadeth from Timothy Carll Juner to Sumpwarmes at south and on the North by our formour percheses or the Road that Leads from timothy Carlls Juneur to the Head of the River East and South by the Exstent of our Old Paten Line Baring Date One thousand six Hundred sixty six be the quantety more or Less all the Above said Land Within the Limets Above said that is within the said town that Has Not Been sold to the Above said town together with all timber wood under wood waters Rights preveledges Heridetements and Apertanances thare Unto belonging or in Any wise Appertaining and all the Estate Right tytle Intrus Posseeson property Clame and Demand what soever of them the said thomas Chereeom Endian Sachem and Thomas Cason Endian in and to the premises and Every part and parsel thereof to Have and to Hold all the Before Mentined Premises to them the said Cornelious Hartt Jese Carll Isac Smith and the Patentee or the trustee and thare Asosheate thare Ares and Asings from them the said thomas Charicam Endian Sachem and Jeams Casen Indian there Heirs Executors Administrators and Asings Unto the soul and only Proper Use Benefit and behove of them the said Cornelious Hartt Jese Carll Isac Smith and the patentes and trustee and their Asosheate their Heirs and Asings for ever in witness whereof he the sd. Thomas Charicom Endion Sachem and Jeams Casen Indion Have set to our Hands and fixed Our seals this twenty third day of Jenuary and In the year of our Lord Christ one thousend seven hundred and fifty five.

^his thomas Chericom Ï Sachem   [Seal.] ^mark

^his Jeams Ï Casen ^mark

Elish Him   [Seal.]

^his Jacob Ï Chepous   [Seal.] ^marke

^his Philip Ï Quason   [Seal.] ^mark

In the presence of Ambros WiCkes Nehemiah Heartt Israel Lewis Daniel Wickes

_____________________________

1755, January 23 – Recorded as Indian Deed to Trustees

To all Christian people to whom these presents shall concern greeting know you that we Thomas Chericom Indian Sachem and Jeams Cason Indian and the rest of the under signers of the Township of Huntington and County of Suffolk, Island of Nassau and province of New York of the one part and Cornelius Hart, Jesse Carll and Isaac Smith together with the patentees or trustees and their associates of the same Town, County and province of the other part witness that we Thomas Chericom Indian Sachem and Jeames Cosen Indian for a valuable consideration to them paid in hand also with one barrel of cider before the sealing and delivery of this present we the said Thomas Charicom Indian Sachem and Jeames Casen Indian do acknowledge and own there with to be fully satisfied contented and thereof and of every part and parcel thereof do hereby acquit exonerate and discharge the said Cornelius Hartt, Jesse Carll and Isaac Smith and the patentees or trustees and their associates and their heirs and assigns forever have given, granted, bargained, sold, alienated, released and confirmed and by these presents do give, grant, bargain, sale, align, release and confirm unto the above said Cornelius Hartt, Jesse Carll and Isaac Smith the patentees or trustees and their associates and their heirs and assigns forever all pieces or parcels of land situating lying and being in the township of above said bounded as follows westward by the path that leads from Timothy Carll Jr. to Sumpwams at south and on the north by our former purchases or the road that leads from Timothy Carll Jr. to the head of the river east and south by the extent of our old patent line bearing date 1666 be the quantity more or less all the above said land within the limits above said that is within the said town that has not been sold to the above said town together with all timber wood under wood waters rights, privileges, hereditaments and appurtenances there unto belonging or in anywise appertaining and all the estate, right, title, entrust, possession, property claim and demand whatsoever of them the said Thomas Chereeom Indian Sachem and Thomas Cason Indian in and to the premises and every part and parcel thereof to have and to hold all the before mentioned premises to them the said Cornelius Hartt, Jesse Carll and Isaac Smith and the patentee or the trustee and their associates their heirs and assigns from them the said Thomas Charicam Indian Sachem and Jeams Casen Indian their heirs, executors, administrators and assigns unto the soul and only proper use benefit and behoove of them the said Cornelius Hartt, Jesse Carll and Isaac Smith and the patentees and trustees and their associates their heirs and assigns forever in witness whereof he the said Thomas Charicom Indian Sachem and Jeams Casen Indian have set to our hands and fixed our seals this January 23, 1755, in the year of our Lord Christ.

^his Thomas Chericom Ï Sachem   [Seal.] ^mark

^his Jeams Ï Casen ^mark

Elish Him   [Seal.]

^his Jacob Ï Chepous   [Seal.] ^mark

^his Philip Ï Quason   [Seal.] ^mark

In the presence of Ambros Wickes, Nehemiah Heartt, Israel Lewis, Daniel Wickes

 

---

[1] The concept of Indian Tribes on Long Island is disputed by modern historians. Suffolk County Historian Paul Bailey published the booklet “The Thirteen Tribes of Long Island” (1959) but wrote “Although we use the generally accepted term of ‘tribe’ in dealing with the local Indians, it is a misnomer. The thirteen division might better, perhaps, be called communities, although each so-called tribe had a number of villages.” Baily promoted the idea of “tribes” with his title while disputing the word within his text.

Dr. John A. Strong wrote “The Thirteen Tribes of Long Island: The History of a Myth.” Hudson Valley Regional Review 9, no. 2 (1992): 39-73. In part, Dr. Strong wrote “Most of the ‘tribal’ names with which we are now familiar do not appear to have been recognized by either the first European observers or by the original inhabitants until the process of land purchases began after the first settlements [of Colonists] were established. We simply do not know what these people called themselves, but all the ethnographic data on North American Indian cultures suggest that they identified themselves in terms of lineage and clan membership.”

[2] West Neck (Amityville) – the Native Americans reportedly called the neck “Araca,” meaning “beyond” or “furthermost.”

[3] Josiah’s Neck (Amityville) – the Native Americans reportedly called the neck “Scurraway,” meaning “snake place.”

[4] Half Neck (Copiague/ Amity Harbor)

[5] Great Neck (Copiague/ Copiague Harbor) – the Native Americans reportedly called the neck “Tatmuckatakis,” “meadow that trembles.”

[6] Copiague Neck (Copiague/ American Venice) – the Native American word “Copiague,” is believed to mean “sheltered place” or “safe harbor.”

[7] Little Neck (Lindenhurst) – the Native Americans reportedly called the neck “Gueguis”; meaning unknown.

[8] Neguntatogue Neck (West Babylon) – the Native American word “Neguntatogue,” is believed to mean “abandoned” or “forsaken land.”

[9] Santapogue Neck (West Babylon/ Bergen Point) – the Native American word “Santapogue,” is believed to mean “a place of cool water.”

[10] Great East Neck (West Babylon) – the Native Americans reportedly called the neck “Guscomquorom,” meaning “crossing place.”

[11] Little East Neck (West Babylon/ Babylon) – the Native Americans reportedly called the neck “Anuskkummikak,” meaning “plowed ground” or “planted land.” Also known as Captain Fleet’s Neck.

[12] Sumpwams Neck (Babylon) – the Native American word “Sumpwams,” is believed to mean “straight walker” or an “upright or just man.”

[13] Cedar Island - the Native Americans reportedly called the island “Screcunkas”; meaning not determined.

[14] Described as an unnamed island of meadow, south of Half Neck.

[15] The Bethpage Purchase was primarily in what is now Nassau County, but extended into what is now the Town of Babylon, in the northwest area.

[16] The Baiting Place Purchase is roughly described as the western portion of the Town of Babylon, north of the uplands and necks.

[17] The Squaw Pit Place Purchase is roughly described as the eastern portion of the Town of Babylon, north of the uplands and necks.

[18] The definition of “Dix Hills” in this agreement was probably larger than the community now known as Dix Hills, and may have included parts of the present Wyandanch and Deer Park communities, near the Town of Huntington border.

[19] This property may have included part of the present Deer Park community, where the Soper family is believed to have resided.

[20] This agreement refers to the 1699 Squaw Pit Place Purchase, the eastern portion of the Town of Babylon, north of the uplands and necks.

[21] This is the last deed between the Town of Huntington and the Native Americans. It refers to including “Sumpwams at south” which appear to refer to Sumpwams Neck and northern lands.

[22] Huntington Town Records, Volume 1, pages 10-11.

[23] The Colonial Laws of New York from the Year 1664 to the Revolution, Including the Charters to the Duke of York, the Commissions and Instructions to Colonial Governors, the Duke's Laws, the Laws of the Dongan and Leisler Assemblies, the Charters of Albany and New York and the Acts of the Colonial Legislatures from 1691 to 1775 Inclusive · Volume 1, by Charles Zebina Lincoln, William H. Johnson, Ansel Judd Northrup, 1894.

[24] Huntington Town Records, Volume 2, pages 33-36.  

[25] Huntington Town Records, Volume 2, pages 121-123.

[26] Huntington Town Records, Volume 2, pages 204-207.

[27] Huntington – Babylon Town History, by Romanah Sammis, 1937, p. 241.

[28] Huntington Town Records, Volume 2, pages 218-221. Note by editor Charles R. Streeter: “This deed is endorsed “Deed of Baiting Place Purchase.” —C. R. S.”

[29] In William Wallace Tooker’s “The Indian Place-Names on Long Island and Islands Adjacent, with their probably significations” (1911), Rugua was identified as “a swamp in the Town of Babylon, near Copiag Neck. It is found in the Indian deed of the "Baiting Place" purchase, 1698 … This is another instance where a swamp takes its name from the aboriginal dweller on its banks. That swamps were frequently chosen by the Indians for their dwelling places is proven frequently in the early records of the town; for instance, a deed of 1698 says: ‘a parcel of land within the bounds of Huntington by a swampe comonly called ye round swamp where Quarapin formerly planted" (H. R., vol. ii., p. 37).”

[30] Huntington – Babylon Town History, by Romanah Sammis, 1937, p. 241.

[31] Huntington Town Records, Volume 2, pages 258-262.

[32] Huntington Town Records, Volume 2, pages 275-278.

[33] King William III had died in March of 1702, unknown to the American colonies at the writing of this deed, and was succeeded by Queen Anne.

[34] Huntington Town Records, Volume 2, pages 421-422