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Carlton Kent was born about 1791 in New Ashford, Massachusetts to Abel and Diadema Horton Kent. Carlton came to Susquehanna County with his father Abel, Jr. not long after his birth. Several sources state that Abel and his brother's Carlton, John and Gideon came to Susquehanna County (when it was still part of Luzerne County) between 1790 and 1792. A son of Abel named Carlton is mentioned in these references. Less information is available on the life of Carlton than all his ancestors, however, there is some evidence of his life.

Although born in New Ashford, Massachusetts, he probably had no recollection of life there. His father moved to the remote area now known as Susquehanna County when Carlton was a baby. It is clear the Kent family was a close family since all the records that do exist show the family lived close to each other, attended church together and attended other social functions together. Carlton's father died suddenly when Carlton was 21 years old. Since Carlton was the eldest son, this left him with the responsibility of caring for his family. Upon the death of his father, Carlton and his mother became executor's of Abel Kent's estate. Since he owned much land, this was no small task. His father left several minor children so it is doubtful his land would have been sold immediately. Carlton was probably already married to Sarah (Sally) Griggs at the time of his father's death. Carlton took responsibility for the entire family and lived with and supported his mother and younger siblings. This is proven in the census records of 1820 and 1830.

Carlton married Sally Griggs, the daughter of Noah and Polly (Andrews) Griggs. Carlton and Sally raised their family in Herrick (called Clifford in the early days of the county) and attended church at The United Methodist Church which Carlton helped to build along with Walter Lyon, Jr., Wheeler Lyon, and Andrew Giddings in 1853. This building still stands on Lyon Street, however, it is no longer a church.

The Children Of Carlton Kent

On February 4, 1855 Sarah (Griggs) Kent died. It is unknown when Carlton died, however, he was still living in 1860 in the house of his son Abel. Since no census information could be found for him in 1870, I assume he died between 1860 and 1870. He is buried in the Lyon Street Cemetery in Herrick Center, Pennsylvania along with his wife Sally Griggs Kent.