Daniel Thurston

Daniel Thurston (March 1, 1719, Bradford, Massachusetts - July 14, 1805, Bradford, Massachusetts), was an Officer during the American Revolution, a member of the Committee of Safety and a member of the committee drafting the Massachusetts State Constitution.

Family

He was the eldest son of Benjamin Thurston and Mary Gage, whose family had a history of military service in America dating back to MG Humphrey Atherton. He married first on 3 September 1741 Hannah Parker, second on 10 September 1761 Judith Gerrish, and third on 17 September 1767 Elizabeth Rolfe.

His son Nathaniel Thurston (January 17, 1755 - October 21, 1811) was also a member of the Massachusetts Legislature.

Military and political career

Thurston was a captain of the Bradford Militia as early as 1765.

Only one web source actually attributes to him the rank of colonel. However, at least three of his brothers-in-law held that rank (Joseph Gerrish, Samuel Gerrish and Jacob Gerrish all commanded regiments) during the Revolution.

Multiple sources list him as a member of the Committee to Draft the Massachusetts State Constitution.

Sources

Vital Records of the Town of Bradford Essex Co. Mass. to the Year 1850.