Peter Woodward (politician)

Peter Woodward (died May 9, 1685) represented Dedham, Massachusetts in the Great and General Court in 1665, 1669, and 1670.[1] He also served on the board of selectmen for 16 years, with his first term beginning in 1643[2] and his last ending in 1670.[3][4]

His daughter, Ann, married Robert Hinsdale, probably in England.[5] He had at least two sons, William and Peter.[6] William, a Harvard College graduate, was hired to assist John Allin in preaching at the First Church and Parish in Dedham in 1668, but died the following June.[6] His brother collected his salary from the church 16 years later.[6]

He died May 9, 1685.[1]

The Town gathered on January 4, 1669, to elect selectmen for the year.[7] At the end of the meeting, Woodward was declared one of the winners.[7] Many supporters of Anthony Fisher alleged fraud, however, and Woodward refused to serve until the question was resolved.[7] The Town met again on January 8, and this time voted by secret ballot.[7] Fisher was elected.[7]

  1. ^ a b Cite error: The named reference sewall was invoked but never defined (see the help page).
  2. ^ Worthington 1827, p. 79-81.
  3. ^ Lockridge 1985, p. 84.
  4. ^ Lockridge 1985, p. 43.
  5. ^ Andrews & Hinsdale 1906, p. 61.
  6. ^ a b c Hanson 1976, p. 67.
  7. ^ a b c d e Hanson 1976, p. 64.