The Rogerenes (Annotated)

The Rogerenes gathers historical narrative, documentary testimony, and antiquarian recovery into a sustained portrait of one of colonial New England's most distinctive dissenting religious communities. Centered on the followers of John Rogers in Connecticut, the volume traces conflicts over baptism, Sabbath observance, conscience, and civil authority, situating local controversy within the broader drama of early American religious liberty. Its range extends from communal memory and genealogical record to legal and ecclesiastical history, making the work significant both as sectarian history and as a study of dissent. John R. Bolles and Anna B. Williams approach the Rogerenes with the concerns of historical preservation, bringing together neglected annals and interpretive commentary to illuminate a movement often overshadowed by more dominant Puritan narratives. Their collaborative work aligns with nineteenth-century efforts to recover regional histories, family archives, and minority religious traditions. Through their attention to persecution, endurance, and principled nonconformity, the authors show how marginalized voices shaped the culture of toleration in early America. This volume is recommended for readers interested in colonial history, religious dissent, and the evolution of liberty of conscience. It offers a valuable opportunity to encounter a lesser-known community through layered perspectives, archival detail, and reflective historical interpretation. Readers will find in The Rogerenes not only a record of conflict and conviction, but also a compelling dialogue between memory, faith, law, and the making of American pluralism. This enriched edition has been carefully crafted to add value to your reading experience. - Hand-picked Memorable Quotes shine a spotlight on moments of literary brilliance. - Interactive footnotes clarify unusual references, historical allusions, and archaic phrases for an effortless, more informed read.