Ambrose Dixon, English-American soldier (b. 1619)

Ambrose Dixon (c. 1619 – April 12, 1687) stands as a notable figure among early American Quaker pioneers. Born in England, he embarked on the momentous journey across the Atlantic at a young age, initially settling in the bustling Virginia Colony before eventually relocating to the more religiously tolerant shores of Maryland.

Early Life, Marriage, and the Virginia Frontier

Details of Ambrose Dixon's earliest years in England are sparse, but his emigration to America placed him firmly within the challenging and often perilous environment of the 17th-century colonies. It was in Virginia that he established his initial roots. By the latter half of 1647, specifically between July 4 and October 28, Ambrose Dixon entered into marriage with Mary. Mary was a widow, having previously been married to Henry Peddington. While some records indicate her maiden name was Wilson, historical documentation can sometimes be incomplete or varied from this period.

Life on the Virginia frontier was characterized by constant interaction, and often conflict, between European settlers and the indigenous Native American populations. Land disputes, resource competition, and differing cultural understandings frequently led to tensions. It was against this backdrop that Ambrose Dixon became embroiled in a significant event that tested the boundaries of colonial law.

The Northampton County Incident: Defiance and the Law

In 1651, Ambrose Dixon, along with a prominent colonial figure, Colonel Edmund Scarburgh, and a group of other inhabitants, found himself on the wrong side of colonial authority. These men took matters into their own hands, initiating an unsanctioned military action against Native Americans, a move that directly flouted existing laws and solemn treaties. A Court Order, issued on May 10, 1651, meticulously details the gravity of their actions, revealing a rare glimpse into the legal and social climate of the time. The document states:

Whereas Mr Edmund Scarburgh, Mr. Thomas Johnson, Mr Richard Vaughan, Captain John Dollinge, John Robinson, Toby Norton, Richard Baily, Ambrose Dixon, Richard Hill, Jenkin Price And divers others Inhabitants and free men in the Upper parte of the parish in the Countie of Northampton Did in a Hostile manner (contrary to the knowne Lawes of Virginia And the League made with the Indians) upon the 28th day of Aprill last past Rayse a partie of men to the number of fiftie persons with Armes and ammunicon And upon the aforesaid daie marched amonge the Indians with a Resolucon to take or kill the Queene of Pocamoke, shott att Indians, slashed and cut [can't read], Took Indyans prisoner, And bound one of them with a Chayne, which said Accons caused the Indyans To Invade the Countie, to the great danger of our Lives and Estate, It is therefore ordered That the Sherriff shall forthwith Arrest the Bodies of all the abovesaid parties And such other (upon inquiry) as hee shall have notice of (which went out against the indyans upon their Designe) To the Number of 50 persons and that hee keepe them in his custodie until they enter into bonds to make their personal appearance at James Citty to answer the premisses before the Governor and Council upon th XXIth day of this Instant Moneth (att the suite of our Sovereign King).

This detailed order from the colonial court in Virginia unequivocally condemned the actions of Dixon and his companions. It highlighted their "hostile manner" against the "knowne Lawes of Virginia" and a pre-existing "League made with the Indians." The group, consisting of approximately fifty armed men, had marched with the intent to "take or kill the Queene of Pocamoke," engaging in violent acts including shooting at Indians, assaulting them, and taking prisoners, one of whom was bound with a chain. These provocations led to a retaliatory "invasion" by the Native Americans, endangering the lives and property of the settlers. Consequently, the Sheriff was ordered to arrest all individuals involved, including Ambrose Dixon, and hold them until they could post bond to appear before the Governor and Council at James City to face charges "at the suite of our Sovereign King." This incident underscores the precarious nature of peace and the often-volatile relationship between settlers and indigenous peoples during this period, as well as the colonial government's attempts, albeit sometimes inconsistent, to maintain order and uphold treaties.

Seeking Sanctuary: The Move to Maryland and Quaker Faith

In the years following the Northampton incident, a profound shift occurred in Ambrose Dixon's life. He embraced Quakerism, a religious movement known for its emphasis on an "inner light," pacifism, and rejection of formal clergy and sacraments. In the rigid Anglican-dominated society of the Virginia Colony, Quakers faced significant persecution for their beliefs and practices, which were often viewed as subversive. This persecution included fines, imprisonment, and even corporal punishment. Seeking refuge from such hardships, Ambrose Dixon made the pivotal decision to relocate. By January 4, 1663, he had moved to Somerset County, Maryland. Maryland, founded by Lord Baltimore, offered a greater degree of religious tolerance, particularly for various Christian denominations, making it a haven for those seeking freedom to practice their faith without fear of severe government reprisal.

Upon his arrival in Maryland, Ambrose Dixon's home quickly became a focal point for the nascent Quaker community. It served as the very first Quaker meeting house in Maryland, a place where Friends could gather for silent worship, communal support, and the conduct of their affairs, free from the threats they had faced elsewhere. This established Dixon not only as a pioneer settler but also as a foundational figure in the history of Quakerism in the American colonies.

Civic Engagements and Later Life

Despite the challenges he had faced and his commitment to Quaker principles, Ambrose Dixon also participated in the civic life of his new home. On January 4, 1666, he received an appointment as Surveyor for Highways, a practical and important role in the developing colonial infrastructure. This position involved planning and maintaining the rudimentary roads and pathways essential for travel and trade within the expanding settlements. Later, on March 3, 1671, Dixon was elected as a delegate to the Maryland Assembly, representing Annemessex County. This was a significant achievement, indicating a measure of respect and standing within his community. However, for reasons not fully documented, he notably "never attended" any sessions of the Assembly. This non-attendance could stem from various factors, including the long and arduous travel required to reach the colonial capital, personal commitments, or perhaps even a conscientious objection rooted in his Quaker beliefs regarding oaths of office or participation in governmental structures that might endorse conflict, though this remains an area for historical speculation.

Legacy and Passing

Ambrose Dixon lived out his remaining years on his plantation, aptly named "Dixon's Choice," in Somerset County, Maryland. He passed away in 1687, leaving behind a substantial legacy. He is widely recognized as the immigrant ancestor to thousands of Americans, a testament to the enduring impact of early colonial families. Among his many descendants is the Indiana blacksmith Noah Beauchamp, who, generations later in the 1840s, gained notoriety for the murder of his neighbor. While this distant descendant's actions are far removed from Dixon's own life, their connection illustrates the vast and often unexpected branches of family trees stemming from early American pioneers like Ambrose Dixon.

Frequently Asked Questions about Ambrose Dixon

Who was Ambrose Dixon?

Ambrose Dixon was an early American Quaker pioneer, born in England around 1619, who emigrated to the Virginia Colony and later moved to Maryland, where he became a foundational figure in the Quaker community.

Why is Ambrose Dixon considered an "early American Quaker pioneer"?

He is considered a pioneer because he was among the early English settlers in America and was instrumental in establishing the Quaker faith in Maryland, with his home serving as the first Quaker meeting house in the colony.

What was the "Northampton County Incident" involving Ambrose Dixon?

In 1651, Ambrose Dixon and others defied colonial law and a treaty with Native Americans by undertaking an unauthorized armed expedition against the indigenous people, specifically targeting the "Queene of Pocamoke." This led to a court order for their arrest and appearance before the Governor and Council.

Why did Ambrose Dixon move from the Virginia Colony to Maryland?

He moved to Maryland by 1663 to escape religious persecution that Quakers faced in the Anglican-dominated Virginia Colony. Maryland offered greater religious tolerance at the time.

Did Ambrose Dixon hold any public offices in Maryland?

Yes, he was appointed Surveyor for Highways in 1666 and was elected a delegate to the Maryland Assembly representing Annemessex County in 1671, though he never attended the Assembly sessions.

What was "Dixon's Choice"?

"Dixon's Choice" was the name of Ambrose Dixon's plantation in Somerset County, Maryland, where he lived and eventually died in 1687.

What is Ambrose Dixon's legacy?

Ambrose Dixon is the immigrant ancestor to thousands of Americans. His legacy includes his role as a pioneer settler, a leader in the early Quaker community, and a participant in the complex colonial society of 17th-century America.