At what period they emigrated to this country is uncertain, but as early as 1630, occurs ihe name of Samuel Archer, a freeman of Salem, Massachusetts, and in 1641, Henry Archer, of Ipswich in that province. John Archer, first proprietor of the manor of Fordham, probably accompanied the early settlers from Fairfield to Westchester, cir. 1654, for in 1657 his name appears as plaintiff in an action of debt brought against one Roger Wiles.a it is said that this individual expired in his coach while journeying to New York city, November, 1685.'^

In 1686, appears the following license and certificate concerning his son's marriage :

" By his Excellency the governor, whereas, 1 have received information of a mutual intent and agreement between John Archer of the one part, and Sarah Odell of the other part, to solemnize marriage together, for which they have requested my lycense, and there appearing no lawful impediment for the obstruction thereof, these are to authorize and empower you to join the said John and Sarah Odell in the bonds of matrimony, and them to pronounce man and wife, and to make record thereof, if convenient to the laws in that behalf provided, for which this shall be your warrant. Given under my hand and seal, at Fort James, in New York, the seventh day of October, 16S6, under the 2nd year of his majesties reign.

Thomas Donga n." Province of New York,

These may certify all persons to whom these presents shall come, that John Archer, of the manor of Fordham, in the county of Westchester, and Sarah Odell of the same place, by virtue of his Excellency the governor's license, bearing date the 7th day of October, 1686, were both joined together in matrimony the