According to the Earls Colne Parish Register notes, JAMES MARKHAM was a "weaver" by trade in Earls Colne in 1658.

Earls Colne is a beautiful village nestled in the Colne Valley in the north of Essex, about 10 miles west of Colchester. St. Andrews Church, there, dates from the 13th century. There are many 17th century homes still standing and in use today, often disguised by modern day facades of brick and plaster. A written guide to a walking tour, points out many of these old dwellings.

Of eight children, DANIEL MARKHAM is the only one known to have come to New England.