The First William WARD (born abt 1763, resident of Merton, Devon, England)

Our first proven WARD ancestor was one William WARD (born about 1763)  It appears that this William was residing in Merton, Devonshire, England when at least some of his children were born.  His wife was probably Elizabeth (more than one source), but another source stated her name was Ann. 

 My mother’s cousin had in her possession an original “The Book of Common Prayer” published in 1834 (copies in my possession).  In old script is written:

 “Wm Ward 1835” at the top.  The inside cover states:  "Willm the son of Wm and Elizth Ward was born February 6 and was baptized the same day in the year of our Lord 1783”. 

Transcriptions of the “Merton, Devon, England Baptisms 1687-1812” do not show a son of William and Elizabeth Ward baptized in 1783.  It does however show four other sons, and one daughter to a William and Elizabeth Ward, and none to a William and Ann Ward. 

According to "The History of Genesee County New York" William Ward Jr. had 3 brtothers;  John, Thomas and Hugh.  No information in known about them at this time.