they came to these inhospitable shores and founded institutions of government and religion which will never perish.

To compile the genealogical and historical parts of this work and bring it within suitable limits, is not an easy task; some things must be omitted that might properly form a part; to decide what to admit and what to omit, is perplexing. The original purpose of the writer was to prepare only a record of the line of descent to himself. The task has occupied more or less time for a number of years in writing to individuals, searching libraries, records of towns, registry of deeds and probate, church records, family bibles, cemeteries, etc. My researches in England were not as successful as I had hoped; much from want of financial means to employ experts to examine old records, which I did not feel competent to undertake, and the need of more time, being obliged to return to mechanical work which gave me support.

The name "Tilson" has long been known in England, Scotland and Ireland. It is identified with their early histories, and held prominent positions in society. The first certain knowledge we have of the name is from records of ancient heraldry, when aristocracy invested badges to distinguish the different degrees of family greatness, each spelled the name in a different way, and were considered distinct families. In most cases the name was spelled with one l. Some thought two ll's looked better, so by common consent both ways are in use, even where families have only been separated two or three generations. In my great-grandfather's bible, the record of births give only one l; my grandfather used only one l in his signature; some have requested that only one l be used in their branch. It has been difficult to decide which course to pursue; personally I would prefer to adopt one l. While I have not been able to get the information most desired, I have but little doubt that Edmond Tilson of Plymouth, 1638, was the Edmond Tilson mentioned in the history of Boston, England; but the works I have consulted show such discrepancies that I cannot place full reliance upon the statements they contain. Edmond Tilson was evidently a man of some consequence in the colony, and it is a source of gratification to his descendants that their families have been here long enough to help make the history this country has. In tracing our ancestry it has been found they were intelligent for the times; they were industrious and frugal toilers of the soil. It has been observed that some of the branches of several generations have exhibited a strong desire for intellectual persuits, and both male and female have been devoted and eminent teachers. The name Tilson has not become very numerous. The writer notes with pleasure the freedom from crime and degradation; and of the high moral and religious elements which have entered into the lives of their posterity. They do not seem to have possessed much desire for political and social place. I find them of respectability generally, and to be represented in the higher walks of life.