Stephen Arnold came with his father to New England and after residing at Providence removed to Pawtuxet, where he had large landed property, a portion of which called the Coweset Purchase, he divided among his sons in his life-time. He was prominent in public affairs, and filled important situations in the colony. He was chosen Deputy Governor in 1664, and Assistant in 1667.
His will dated 2 June 1698 was proved 12 December 1699. In his will, which is exceptionally long, dated 15th November 1699 he made bequests to all of his children “all my Right Title & Interest in all the lands & meaddowes that I have or ought ot have on the south side of the Pawtuxett River.”191