Michael Sweetman divided the farm and other land he had acquired amongst his sons, initiating a gradual dispersal of Sweetmans across the South Wexford landscape. The eldest son, Roger, was given a large farm in Faree, built a substantial dwelling house in the typical Georgian style. He was, all his life a big farmer. The precise details of his marriage settlement are not known, but Richard Welsh left 500 pounds to Mary Welsh in his will, or, should she die, to her children, plus an equal share of the business at Placentia. Most likely in keeping with these agreements, Pierce Sweetman, eldest son of Roger, was sent to William Saunders, at Poole, to learn the trade. Pierce Sweetman's early travels typify the considerable mobility of an apprentice merchant in the cod fishery.
The death of William Saunders in 1788 had important long-term implications for the Sweetmans' position within the company. His death left space for the Sweetmans to assume a more active role in the fishery. In replying to a letter written by Roger Sweetman of Wexford in spring, 1788, Thomas Saunders acknowledged that his brother's death "brings a large share of the burden of business" on him, but assures Roger that he will "pay strict attention to the trade, hoping to carry it on in an amicable way and profitable for the benefit of all parties." Saunders goes on to comment on prospects for the fishery, in expressing the hope that Pierce Sweetman will arrive soon in Placentia, sends regard to Roger's family and signs himself "assured friend and honorable servant." It is clear from this and subsequent correspondence that the Sweetmans were major shareholders in the firm and formal partners by the fall of 1789, when the company's name was changed from Saunders and Company to Saunders and Sweetman.
Roger F. Sweetman build Blenheim House which stood as a landmark in Placentia for over 140 years.