James Parker was a notable figure in early Massachusetts history, particularly in Chelmsford and Groton. He was instrumental in the establishment and governance of these communities during the colonial period.
Along with four of his brothers, James Parker was one of the original 29 petitioners for land in what would become Chelmsford. He played a pivotal role in the allocation and distribution of land in Chelmsford. Parker was recognized for his leadership and served in various local administrative capacities. He built his home on the south side of Robin’s Hill which is now the site of the Barrett-Byam Homestead, headquarters of the Chelmsford Historical Society.
Because of religious differences with Rev. Fisk, he sold his homestead to Thomas Barrett Sr. on April 10, 1663, and moved to Groton. While living in Groton, he built the highway to Chelmsford, which opened the trading route to Boston through Chelmsford. He also built a garrison house on Main Street in Groton near where James Brook crosses.
On March 2, 1676, as part of King Philips War, Nashaway Indians led by John Monaco (Sagamore John) attacked Groton. While ransacking a garrison house close to Parker’s own garrison house, Monaco told Parker he had burned down Medfield and Lancaster, MA, and he would do the same to Groton, Chelmsford, Concord, Watertown, Cambridge, Charlestown, Roxbury, and Boston. Monaco told him,
“what me will, me do”.
Monaco’s involvement in the war came to an end with the broader collapse of King Philip’s resistance later that year. Monaco was hanged in Boston in the fall of 1676.
All of Groton had been destroyed and remained uninhabited for two years. Parker went to stay with old neighbors in Chelmsford. He returned to Groton in 1678. Parker played a critical role in the towns’s rebuilding and recovery efforts.
The Indians attacked again in 1694 and killed Parker’s son James and his wife. The three children were kidnapped and taken to Canada. Two were girls and one became a nun in the Catholic Church. The boy, named Phinehas, returned to Groton in 1698, lame in one leg due to the cruelty of the Indians. Like his grandfather, he became Groton’s town clerk and a valued member of the community.
At the age of 80, Parker fathered a daughter with his second wife, Eunice. He died two years later but left provisions in his will for the long-term care of his young daughter and his wife.
Parker’s life illustrates the challenges of early colonial settlement, including conflicts with Native Americans during King Philips War. He was noted for his involvement in the defense of the settlements, which often faced threats during this tumultuous period. His leadership in securing the safety and organization of these communities was highly valued.