Manuscript Collections of the
Nantucket Historical Association Research Library

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 MS21 - Carey Family Papers, 1809-1894
Collection Overview: The papers consist of a story about Betsey Carey, two deeds, and a divorce agreement for Robert Carey, 1814.

Historical Note: Edward Carey (1771- 1850) was born in Boston and worked there in the cordage business until he and his brother, Nathaniel, moved to Nantucket. Once on the Island, they established a rope-making business and proceeded to purchase large tracts of land. Nathaniel also built, for all the Careys, a large, elegant house located at 117 Main Street. Edward owned a large farm at Squam, inherited from his father, Edward and acquired through purchases of adjoining land. Betsey (Swain) Carey (1778-1862) inherited her father’s house in S’conset, known as “Shanunga.” From this house she ran a tavern during the 1840’s; consequently the house was dubbed Betsey Carey Cottage. Her son-in-law, Captain William Baxter, was Sconset’s self-appointed postmaster and made the tavern into his post office.

FOLDER 1
Betsey Cary's trip to the Hudson Valley, 1894

Summary note: A story of Betsey Cary's trip to the Hudson Valley. By Eliza W. Mitchell, 1894

FOLDER 2
Edward Cary papers, 1809-1894

Contents: Deed for purchase of sheep from William Hammatt of Boston. Boston, June 26,1809 Deed for sale of land in Squam to Aaron Snow. Nantucket, April 2, 1825 Copy of article written by Eliza W. Mitchell regarding family of Edward Cary [sic] and building of house at 117 Main St. Nantucket, March 13, 1894

FOLDER 3
Cary divorce, 1814

Contents: Divorce agreement between Robert Carey and wife, Lydia (Wood). August 15, 1814