My origins: Origins of the Borden Family

The history of the Borden family of Kent, England, is a long and fascinating one that stretches back hundreds of years. This family, like many others, has faced challenges and struggles throughout its history but has managed to overcome them with resilience and determination. This article will explore the story of the Borden family, from their roots in Kent to their eventual immigration to America.

The Early Years

The Borden family of Kent, England, can trace its roots back to the 13th century. They were initially known as “de Bourdon,” a French name that means “from Bourdon.” Over time, the name was Anglicized to “Borden,” and the family became well-established in the area. They were primarily farmers and landowners known for their hard work and dedication to their community.

Richard’s Immigration to America

In the early 1600s, Richard Borden left England and started a new life in America. He was born in the town of Sittingbourne, Kent, in 1595 and was the son of a wealthy farmer. Richard was well-educated and had a good head for business, which would serve him well in his new home.

Richard arrived in Boston in 1635, along with his wife Joan and their children. They settled in Portsmouth, Rhode Island, then part of Massachusetts Bay Colony. Richard quickly became involved in the community, serving as a magistrate and local militia member. He also established a successful business as a trader and merchant, importing goods from England and selling them in the colonies.

The Borden Family in America

Over the years, the Borden family grew and prospered in America. Richard and Joan had 11 children, many becoming successful business owners and community leaders. The family also became involved in the abolitionist movement, with several members playing essential roles in the Underground Railroad.

One of the Borden family’s most famous members was Lizzie Borden, born in 1860 in Fall River, Massachusetts. Lizzie is perhaps best known for being tried and acquitted for the murders of her father and stepmother in 1892. The case received widespread attention at the time and continues to be a subject of fascination to this day.

The Legacy of the Borden Family

The Borden family of Kent and their descendants in America have left a lasting legacy that can still be felt today. They were hardworking, resilient, and dedicated to their communities, and their contributions to society cannot be overstated. From Richard’s immigration to America in the 1600s to Lizzie’s infamous trial in the 1890s, the Borden family has played a unique and vital role in American history.

Today, many people worldwide can trace their ancestry back to the Borden family of Kent. They take pride in their heritage and in the contributions that their ancestors made to their communities and to the world. The story of the Borden family is a testament to the power of determination and hard work and inspires all who hear it.