1629: Vines granted Biddeford Tract

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In February, 1629, The Biddeford patent was granted to Captain Richard Vines, who wintered in the region, and showed that a successful winter in "New England" was possible, and opened the door for further colonization of the region.

The patent conveyed a tract of land between Cape Elizabeth and Cape Porpoise, on the south side of the Saco River, containing 4 miles along the shore of the sea, extending 8 miles inland.

A second patent was issued for a tract of the same size on the other side of the river, to a Thomas Lewis and Captain Richard Bonython.  This grant was in contest with another grant for Cape Elizabeth, and the settlement caused the grant for what was to become Saco to be resized somewhat.  A "John Dyer" (Dyer library?) is also listed on that patent.