Genealogical notes of Barnstable families - citizen hylbom blog

BOURNE.
RICHARD BOURNE.
In the biographical dictionaries and in many historical
works, there are short sketches of the life and character of
Richard Bourne. No biography of this distinguished man
has been written. I shall not attempt it. My purpose is
to elucidate one point in his character, namely : the politi-
cal influence of his labors as a missionary,—a point not entirely
overlooked by early writers,—but historians have
failed to give to it that prominence it deserves. The facts
bearing on this point will be stated in a condensed form.
Aside from his labors as a missionar3% Richard Bourne
was a man of note. He was often a representative to the
General Court ; held many town offices ; often served on
committees, and as a referee in important cases. He was a
well-informed man ; discreet, cautious, of sound judgment,
and of good common sense. There is reason to doubt
whether he brought to New England so large an estate as
has been represented. The division of the meadows at
Sandwich does not indicate that he was a man of wealth.
He was a good business man, and while he carefully guarded
the interests of the Indians, he did not forget to lay up
treasures for himself.
John Eliot, Thomas Mayhew, father and son, Richard
Bourne, John Cotton, Daniel Gookin, and Thomas Tupper
consecrated their lives to the philanthropic purpose of meliorating
the condition of the Indians. They instructed them
in the arts of civilized life ; they established schools, and
they founded churches. Many of the Indians were converted
to Christianity, and lived pious and holy lives ; very
many of them were taught to read and write their native
language, and a few were good English scholars.