"Hear Ye, Hear Ye, Hear Ye"

Early town records show that Thomas was a Town Crier from 1664-65. A town crier was an official position of some importance. Usually people of standing in the community were chosen as criers, for they had to be able to write and read the official proclamations. They were the chief means of news communication and local events. Summoning the townspeople with the ringing of a bell and a "Hear Ye, Hear Ye, Hear Ye", the Town Crier would commence to "cry" out the news and announcements of the day. Perhaps he would be instructed to read a newly enacted law, news of neighboring towns and villages, Indian uprisings, or even birth, marriage and death notices. This extra occupation, as well as farming his own lands, would have made him a vital part of the town makeup.