James Dagget Jr

James Daggett Jr was born on June 25, 1761 in Rehoboth, MA to James and Rebekah (Stearns) Daggett. There is currently no documentation of James having a wife or children. His family lived in the house that is still standing at 74 Roger Williams Avenue in Rumford, RI. He was the great grandson of Nathaniel Daggett, the original owner.

James served as a soldier during the American Revolutionary War. His name appears on a list, dated December 29, 1777, of men drafted for three months to guard the shores at Rhode Island. During this time, men were drafted or serving in units stationed in the vicinity to guard against British forces. These local, short-term enlistments were vital for securing the region against British occupation of Newport, which occurred in late 1776 and continued through 1777-1778.

On July 27, 1780, James enlisted, in response to an alarm at Rhode Island, as a private in Captain Jabez Bullock’s Company in Colonel Thomas Carpenter’s Regiment.

During this time, Rhode Island experienced alarms due to constant British threats, leading to militia musters, particularly around late July and early August, when units from Massachusetts were called to defend the coast near Tiverton and Bristol, coinciding with the significant arrival of French forces at Newport. His unit marched from Rehoboth to Tiverton, RI. He was discharged on July 31, 1780 after serving five days.

Not much is known about his life after his service. It is believed that he remained in Rehoboth, which was renamed Seekonk in 1812. He died on November 4, 1829 at the age of 68. He is buried in Newman Cemetery in Rumford, RI. His gravesite is marked with a slate stone which was carved by the Tingley Shop.

James Daggett Jr is remembered for his service in the fight for American independence. His contribution helped secure freedom for future generations.