Genealogy of the Cutts Family in America - Family History

In this review of Genealogy of the Cutts Family in America, the reviewer finds a focused family history that will appeal to readers who want a close, documentary look at one New England lineage. Compiled by Cecil Hampden Cutts Howard, the book traces four generations from the 1600s and relies on firsthand material such as letters, diaries and wills; the single biggest reason to buy is the depth of primary-source detail that illuminates everyday life and public service across generations.

Key Features

• Four generations traced: The narrative follows descendants of John and Hannah Starr Cutts from their arrival in the 1600s through notable family members, providing continuity across decades.
• Primary-source material: Letters, diaries and wills are used throughout, offering direct insight into personal thoughts, family relationships and estate matters.
• Local history context: The book situates the family in Saco, Maine and wider New England society, helping readers understand regional political and social roles.
• Profiles of prominent members: Biographical sketches of figures such as Justice Richard Cutts and public servant Samuel Cutts explain how the family engaged with law and government.
• Genealogical value: The compiled family connections and generational detail make this a useful reference for researchers tracing related lines or local New England ancestry.

Who It's For

This volume is best for genealogists, local historians and readers who value original documents and close family narrative over broad national synthesis. Anyone researching New England families, early Maine settlers or the Cutts line specifically will find the firsthand material especially valuable.

Readers seeking a sweeping political history of early America or a general survey of colonial life should look elsewhere; this book focuses on one family and its social and civic roles rather than offering a comprehensive national overview.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• The use of letters and wills provides authentic firsthand perspectives rarely assembled in one place.
• Clear tracing of multiple generations aids genealogical research and verification of family links.
• Biographical attention to public service highlights the family's role in local and state institutions.

Cons

• The narrow focus on a single family means readers seeking broader context or thematic analysis may find the scope limited.

Specifications

Title	Genealogy of the Cutts Family in America (Classic Reprint)
Author / Compiler	Cecil Hampden Cutts Howard
Generations covered	Four generations from the first John and Hannah Starr Cutts
Primary sources	Letters, diaries, wills
Geographic focus	Saco, Maine and New England
Notable figures	Richard Cutts (Justice), Samuel Cutts (Harvard graduate, public servant)

Our Verdict

Genealogy of the Cutts Family in America is a well-documented, narrowly focused family history that offers strong value to genealogists and local historians. The richness of primary documents and clear generational tracing make it a worthwhile reference for anyone researching the Cutts line or early Saco, Maine families.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this book include original documents?
Yes, the work incorporates letters, diaries and wills as primary-source material throughout the narrative.

Which geographical area does it cover?
The book focuses on the Cutts family in Saco, Maine and places them within New England society.

Is this suitable for general colonial history readers?
It is most useful for family and local history research rather than a broad survey of colonial America.