Military Monday – Stephen Purvis and the Mexican War

The Mexican War (1846-1848)[1] [2] is the first war that was reported in daily newspapers of that time period. The war was fought over westward expansion and the movement of American pioneers into areas claimed by Mexico.

President Polk believed that the future of America hinged on the purchase of land above the Rio Grande River to California. Mexico rebuffed the idea of selling the land. The annexation of Texas in 1845 was the final spark in a very smoldering situation. President Polk dispatched Brigadier General Zachary Taylor along with 3000 troops southwest to the Rio Grande to protect the area.

A Mexican Calvary force crossed the Rio Grande on April 25, 1846, killing and capturing a detachment of Americans. On May 11, 1846, President Polk asked Congress for a declaration of war.

This war was extremely controversial and this short summary does not do it Justice. I highly recommend that you "Google" the Mexican War and read about it in full details.

The men of Chesterfield County and the surrounding area were not exempt from this war. I do not know how many local men served in the War; but, we do have one brave young man that gave his life in this war.

Stephen Purvis was a Private in Company F, Palmetto Regiment, South Carolina Infantry, during the Mexican War.

The Palmetto Regiment was organized in December 1846. The regiment served valiantly during the campaign.

Stephen died in June 1847 at Perote, Mexico[3]. Stephen is buried in the Purvis Cemetery off of Shiloh Acres Road in Chesterfield, SC.

Not much is known about Stephen because of the destruction of records during the Civil War. Based on the research I have completed, Stephen was a son of Vicy Purvis. He had a brother John "Jack" Purvis that married Sarah "Sallie" Huggins and a sister, Sarah that married Elijah Sellers. From the 1830 census[4] for Chesterfield, we know that Vicy Purvis household had a female, age 15-19 and 3 males, ages 10-14. Based on these date Stephen was born between 1816 and 1820. When he died in June 1847, he was approximately 26-30 years of age.

Stephen Purvis Tombstone

The Palmetto Regiment Medal[5]

On 8 December 1848, the SC House of Representatives authorized a medal for all the officers and men that served in the War from South Carolina. Descendants of Stephen Purvis still have his medal today displayed in their home.

I had the honor to visit with relatives of Stephen Purvis and viewing this Medal some time ago. It's a beautiful medal.

---

[1] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Battles_of_the_Mexican-American_War

[2] http://www.digitalhistory.uh.edu/database/article_display.cfm?HHID=316

[3] South Carolina in the Mexican War, A History of the Palmetto Regiment of Volunteers 1846-1917 by Jack Allen Meyer, South Carolina Department of Archives and History, 1439 Senate Street, Columbia, South Carolina, 29211, page 246.

[4] 1830 U. S. Census, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, population schedule, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, Page: 258; Line 15, Household of Vicy Purvis; digital images, Ancestry.com (http://www.ancestry.com : viewed 29 April 2011); citing National Archives Microfilm M19_172.

[5] My thanks to Tony Chibbaro for the use of these two photos: http://www.angelfire.com/sc2/tokenofthemonth/token007/.

Sundays Obituary: Richard Caswell Sellars

Richard Caswell Sellars is my 1^st Cousin 5 times removed.

R. C. Sellars was born in South Carolina June 13, 1821 departed this life Aug. 29, 1909. Age 88 years 2 months and 15 days. He came to Carroll County, when he was only 6 years of age [1827] where he lived until he was 26 [1847] years old, when he moved to Gibson county where he resided until his death. He professed faith in Christ in the year of 1857 and joined the Missionary Baptist church of which he lived a consistent member until death. He was a dutiful Christian, always being regular at his church as long as health would permit.

He was married to Mariah Hampton in May 1845, to this union were born 11 children of whom 5 are living. This companion being taken from him in Sept. 1866, he was married to Anliza Crawford in Jan. 1867, to whom were born 3 children, of which all are living. He was a devoted husband, as a father he was all that father could mean always doing what he could to make home pleasant. He had been sick for months but bore his afflictions with Christian patience and often said he was ready and waiting for the Lord to call him to his heavenly home. His loved ones did all in their power to comfort him and restore his health, but God knew best and must submit to his will. He leaves a wife, 8 children, many grand-children, a host of friends and relatives to mourn our loss. But our loss is his eternal gain for he only fell asleep in the arms of Jesus. Rev. Bell of Bradford, conducted the funeral service and he was laid to rest in the Shiloh Cemetery.

{WRITTEN BY HIS NEIGHBORS}

James Ross Lost Brothers - Found

Lost Brothers - Found

James Ross was born June 26, 1850 in Chesterfield, Chesterfield, South Carolina, United States. He appeared in the census in 1880 in Chesterfield County, South Carolina, United States.¹ He Nancy, his wife, is enumerated in the 1900-1930 censuses for Chesterfield County, South Carolina.^{2 3 4 5 6} James died on 6 Dec 1945 at the age of 94 in Darlington County, South Carolina.⁷ He was buried on 7 Dec 1945 in Chesterfield, Chesterfield, South Carolina.⁸

James Ross and Nancy J. Davis were married on 17 Jul 1870 in Chesterfield, Chesterfield, South Carolina. Nancy J. Davis, daughter of Michael Davis and Hulda Rivers, was born on 25 Jun 1844 in Chesterfield County, South Carolina.^{9 10} She is listed with her parents in the 1860 census. ^{11 12 13} She died on 5 Nov 1918 at the age of 74 in Chesterfield, Chesterfield, South Carolina.¹⁴ Nancy was buried on 6 Nov 1918 in Chesterfield, Chesterfield, South Carolina.^{15 16 17}

James Ross and Nancy J. Davis had no children of their own. In the 1900 Census for Chesterfield they list William Alfred Rivers, age 15, as their adopted son.

           +2              i.   William Alfred Rivers, born Jan 1885, Chesterfield, Chesterfield, South Carolina, United States; married Nellie Campbell, 5 Oct 1904, Chesterfield County, South Carolina; died 1 Apr 1951, Chesterfield, Chesterfield, South Carolina.

Nancy Davis Ross is my second Great Aunt. Not much is known about James Ross but we do know he had two brothers and a sister. On May 15, 1930 the following article appeared in the local newspaper.  

JAMES ROSS FINDS

             LONG LOST BROTHER

Quite a good deal of interest was aroused about three years ago when Mr. James Ross, one of Chesterfield's successful farmers and one of her most highly respected sons, located in Arkansas a long-lost brother, Frank.  Mr. Frank Ross then came to Chesterfield, spent a few months here and moved to Charlotte, where he is engaged in the mercantile business. The story of their early life and separation was repeated with a good deal of interest. There was another brother, however, named Jethro, who had been given up for dead for the past fifty-five years.

Through an advertisement in the Junior Order's publication Mr. Frank Ross learned that his brother Jethro was living in Lincoln County, Georgia.

Correspondence resulted in a visit to Chesterfield by Mr. Jethro Ross, who has prospered in his adopted state and won the esteem of his fellow citizens.

In speaking of their early life Mr. James Ross says the original home was in this county near Cheraw, that his mother died when all the children (there were four then) were quite small. The war was coming on conditions were rather chaotic. Before going to the war the father placed the children, three boys and a girl in different homes. The father was killed in the war and later the sister died. The boys became scattered though Jethro and James corresponded for a time. It was when the correspondence ceased that these two brothers believed each other dead.

It was a happy circumstance that brought them together again.

Mr. James Ross accompanied his brother to his home in Georgia where he spent a few days. Together they first visited the brother Frank in Charlotte. [The Chesterfield Advertiser, May 15, 1930.]

No Tombstone exists for James Ross but he is most likely buried beside his wife Nancy Davis Ross at Zoar United Methodist Church Cemetery, Chesterfield County, South Carolina. His SC Death certificate #013745 indicates he was buried at Zoar on 7 December 1945.

____________________________________

        1. 1880 U. S. Census, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, population schedule, Court House, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, enumeration district (ED) #5, Page 326B; Line 36, Dwelling 289, Family 289, Household of  James ROSS; digital image, Ancestry.com (http://www.ancestry.com : viewed 28 August 2011); citing National Archive  Microfilm T9, Roll 1225. James ROSS, age 25, born in SC, parents born in SC; Nancy J. ROSS, Wife, age 30,  born in SC, parents born in SC.

        2. 1900 U. S. Census, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, population schedule, Court House, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, enumeration district (ED) #21, Page 108B, Line 75, Dwelling 455, Family 463, .Household of James ROSS; digital images, Ancestry.com (http://ancestry.com : viewed 28 August 2011); citing National Archives Microfilm T623_Roll: 1523. James ROSS, age 49, born unk 1851;  Nancy ROSS, age 54, wife, born June 1845, married 30 years [1870], no children; William A. RIVERS, adopted  son, age 15, born Jan 1885.

        3. 1910 U. S. Census, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, population schedule, Court House, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, enumeration district (ED) #0036, Page 105, Line 33, Dwelling 30, Family 31, Household of James ROSS; digital images, Ancestry.com (http://ancestry.com : viewed 28 August 2011); citing National Archives Microfilm T624_1455. 1910 CENSUS: Court House, Chesterfield County, South Carolina; Roll: T624_1455; Enumeration District: 0036; Image: 865; FHL Number: 1375468, Page 105, Line 33, Dwelling 30, Family 31; James ROSS, age 59, born NC, married 40 years, his wife Nancy [Davis] ROSS, age 65, born in SC; married 40 years; William A. RIVERS, Nephew, age 26, born in SC; married 5 years; Nellie RIVERS, niece-in-law, age 25, born in SC; married 5 years, 2 children, 1 living, James N. RIVERS, grandnephew, age 1 7/12, born in SC. .

        4. 1920 U. S. Census, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, population schedule, Court House, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, enumeration district (ED) #039, Page: 154, Line 30, Dwelling 136, Family 149, Household of James ROSS; digital images, Ancestry.com (http://ancestry.com : viewed 28 August 2011); citing National Archives Microfilm T625_1690. 1920 CENSUS: Court House, Chesterfield County, South Carolina; Roll: T625_1690; Enumeration District: 39; Image: 908; Page: 154, Line 30, Dwelling 136, Family 149; James ROSS, age 68, born NC; William A. RIVERS, nephew, age 34, born in SC, Nellie C. RIVERS, niece, age 36, born in SC; James M. RIVERS, nephew, age 11, born in SC and William W. RIVERS, nephew, age 9, born in SC.

        5. 1930 U. S. Census, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, population schedule, Chesterfield, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, enumeration district (ED) #14, Page 11A; Line 16, Dwelling 212, Family 235, Household of James ROSS; digital images, Ancestry.com (http://ancestry.com : viewed 28 August 2011); citing National Archives Microfilm T626_2192. James ROSS, Male, age 80, born in NC.

        6. The Chesterfield Advertiser, 15 May 1930, Chesterfield, Chesterfield County, South Carolina.

        7. James Ross, death certificate #013745 (6 December 1945), Vital Records, Department of Health and Environmental Control, Columbia, Richland County, South Carolina.

        8. Ibid.

        9. James C. Pigg, Chesterfield County Cemetery Survey; Chesterfield County Genealogical Services, 1995, page 849. Tombstone of Nancy Davis ROSS; 25 June 1844–5 November 1918, Zoar United Methodist Church Cemetery, Chesterfield County, South Carolina.
Tombstone, Zoar United Methodist Church Cemetery as recorded in "Chesterfield County, South Carolina Cemetery Survey", Page 849, By James C. Pigg, Published by Chesterfield County Genealogical Services, Copyright 1995. [Nancy Davis ROSS, Jun 25, 1844 - Nov 5, 1918].

        10. 1850 U. S. Census, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, population schedule, Chesterfield, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, enumeration district (ED) No ED, Page 179B, Line 3, Dwelling/Family 1240/1240, Household of Michael DAVIS; digital images, Ancestry.com (http://www.ancestry.com : viewed 21 July 2011); citing  National Archives Microfilm M432 Roll 851. 1850 CENSUS: Chesterfield, Chesterfield County, South Carolina; Roll: M432_851; Image: 363; Page 179B, Line 3, Dwelling/Family 1240/1240. Michael DAVIS,  age 43, Farmer, born in SC; Huldy DAVIS, Wife, age 33, born SC; William A. DAVIS, Son, age 15, born SC; Sarah A. DAVIS, Daughter, age 11, born SC; Elizabeth DAVIS, Daughter, age 9, born in SC; Thomas F. DAVIS, Son, age 8, born SC; Nancy DAVIS, Daughter, age 5, born in SC; Charley W. DAVIS, Son, age 3, born SC and Elisha B. DAVIS, Son, age 1, born SC;  Film #0444814.

        11. 1880 U. S. Census, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, Population Schedule, Court House, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, ED #5, Page 326B; Line 36, Dwelling 289, Family 289, Household of  James ROSS. 1880 CENSUS: Court House, Chesterfield County, South Carolina; National Archives Film T9-1225; Family History Film: 1255225; Enumeration District: 5;  Page 326B; Line 36, Dwelling 289, Family 289; James ROSS, age 25, born in SC, parents born in SC; Nancy J. ROSS, Wife, age 30,  born in SC, parents born in SC.

        12. 1900 U. S. Census, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, population schedule, Court House, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, ED #21, Page 108B, Line 75, Dwelling 455, Family 463, .Household of James ROSS. 1900 CENSUS: Court House, Chesterfield County, South Carolina; Roll: T623_1523; Enumeration District: 21; Page 108B, Line 75, Dwelling 455, Family 463; James ROSS, age 49, born unk 1851;  Nancy ROSS, age 54, wife, born June 1845, married 30 years [1870], no children; William A. RIVERS, adopted  son, age 15, born Jan 1885.

        13. 1910 U. S. Census, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, population schedule, Court House, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, ED #0036, Page 105, Line 33, Dwelling 30, Family 31, Household of James ROSS. 1910 CENSUS: Court House, Chesterfield County, South Carolina; Roll: T624_1455; Enumeration District: 0036; Image: 865; FHL Number: 1375468, Page 105, Line 33, Dwelling 30, Family 31; James ROSS, age 59, born NC, married 40 years, his wife Nancy [Davis] ROSS, age 65, born in SC; married 40 years; William A. RIVERS, Nephew, age 26, born in SC; married 5 years; Nellie RIVERS, niece-in-law, age 25, born in SC; married 5 years, 2 children, 1 living, James N. RIVERS, grandnephew, age 1 7/12, born in SC. .

        14. James C. Pigg, Chesterfield County Cemetery Survey, Chesterfield County Genealogical Services, 1995. Tombstone of Nancy Davis ROSS. Tombstone, Zoar United Methodist Church Cemetery as recorded in "Chesterfield County, South Carolina Cemetery Survey", Page 849, By James C. Pigg, Published by Chesterfield County Genealogical Services, Copyright 1995. [Nancy Davis ROSS, Jun 25, 1844 - Nov 5, 1918].

        15. Ibid.

        16. Mrs. James Ross obituary, The Chesterfield Advertiser, Chesterfield, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, 7 November 1918, page 1, col. 3:.
Obituary - Mrs. James Ross, The Chesterfield Advertiser, November 7, 1918, page 1, col. 3: Mrs. James Ross died at her home on Green Street last Tuesday morning at 6:30 o'clock after a long illness, which she had borne with Christian resignation. Mrs. Ross had attained the age of 75 years and had been a lifelong member of Zoar church. Before her marriage she was Miss Nancy Davis, and was raised in the Zoar section. She is survived by her husband and a large family connection. The body was laid to rest in the Zoar cemetery Wednesday afternoon. Many beautiful floral tributes attested the love and esteem in which this good woman was held by her friends.[SOURCE: James C. Pigg, "Obituaries from the Chesterfield Advertiser 1892-1926, Chesterfield County, SC" (Tega Cay, SC, Self-published, 2001].

        17. Harry Alexander Davis, The Davis Family (Davies and David) in Wales and America: genealogy of Morgan David of Pennsylvania (Washington, D.C.: n.p., 1927), page 222. Harry Alexander Davis in his book "The Davis Family in Wales and America" made the following statement: "Nancy J. b 1845 md 1865 David Richard son of Eliza Davis and Benjamin Teal, 1st cousins: had 2 children in 1870. Page 222."

This is not TRUE.

David Richard son of Eliza Davis and Benjamin Teal, did in fact marry Nancy J. Davis. The Nancy J. Davis that he married was born 17 March 1839 and was the daughter of John Calvin Davis and Charlotte Hurst. John Calvin is the uncle of Nancy J. Davis, b. 25 Jun 1844 to Michael Davis and Hulda Rivers. Nancy, b. 25 Jun 1884 is believed to have married James K. Parker who died in 1862 in the Civil War and after the War married James Ross abt 1870.

Another misconception and incorrect information:

Some researchers say NANCY J. DAVIS was married to GEORGE PARKER had 1 son----- d. young. Before marrying (M #2) 17 Jul 1870, James Ross. B abt. 1850.

There are two PARKER'S listed in the 1860 Census with wives named NANCY.  George A. PARKER, age 24 and his wife Nancy PARKER, age 27 and James K. Parker, age 23 and his wife Nancy PARKER, age 16. This above statement is not true; but may be partially right. I believe the 16-year of wife of James K. Parker was in fact Nancy J. DAVIS PARKER, b. 25 June 1844. James K. PARKER, Private, Co. E. 21st SC Volunteers, Infantry died 14 April 1862 at Georgetown, SC.

Drury Boatwright

Drury Boatwright was born about 1794, a son of Lewis Boatwright and Sarah Lundy. Around 1816, he married Lavicia "Vicy" Thurman, daughter of John Thurman and Anne Perkins. Drury and Levicia had 3 known Children – Thomas Boatwright who married Artimica Wynn; Sarah Ann Boatwright who married Malachi Rivers and John Martin Boatwright who married Eunice Atkinson

Until about a year ago, there were only two known children - Thomas & Sarah Ann. I wrote about finding John Martin in this article on my blog. The 1830 Census indicates that there was another daughter born to this couple between 1825 and 1830 that has not been identified and may not have survived to adulthood.[1]

Drury served in the War of 1812.  His widow, Levicia, remarried after his death to Obadiah Gullege applied for a pension for his service.

Levicia Gulledge appeared on the Federal Pension Roll of January 1, 1883,

Name - Lavicy GULLEDGE, P.O - Chesterfield C. H.,  Cause for which pensioned - widow 1812, Date of Original Allowance - Sept. 1879, Certificate #26836.[2]

This pension file provided the clue about son John; it specifically refers to her son, John Boatwright.

Drury died about 1838 as indicated by this notice published in the local newspaper.

SHERIFF'S SALES

By order of the Court of Ordinary, will be

sold on the first Monday in December next

at Chesterfield Court House, within the legal

hours of sale, all the real Estate of Drewry

Boatright deceased, lying on Jemmie's[3]

Creek and Abram's Creek, containing eight

hundred and sixty nine acres, more or less.

Terms--As much cash as will defray the

expenses of the sale will be required on the

day of sale.--For the balance, one half

payable the first day of January 1840 and the

other half on the first day of January 1841

with interest from day of sale. Purchasers to

give Bond and good security and a mortgage

on the premises (if required) to the Ordinary

to secure the purchase money, and pay for

all necessary papers.

AM. LOWRY, Sheriff C.D.

Nov. 19, 1838.

Nov. 28, 1838

Around 1973/74, the SC Department of Transportation imitated a project to widen Highway 9 between Chesterfield and Cheraw to four (4) lanes. During that project the graves of Drury Boatwright, Richard Thompson "RT" Powell and Levicia Gulledge were found. Their bodied were removed and reinterred on July 10, 1974 at Pine Grove Baptist Church Cemetery, Chesterfield County, South Carolina. A small marker was placed by the 3 graves.

Inscription:
Removed from S. C. Route 9
Reinterred July 10, 1974

A news article about these three men appeared in the local newspaper on 10 July 1974[4].

---

[1] 1830 U. S. Census, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, population schedule, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, page 236, Line 13, Drewry Boatwright; digital images, Ancestry.com (http://www.ancestry.com : viewed 12 January 2011); citing National Archives Microfilm M19_172

[2] SC Genealogical Society, "Federal Pension Roll of January 1, 1883," The Carolina Herald and Newsletter, Vol. XXXVII, No. 2, (April, May, June 2009): page 18.

[3] the correct name of this creek is - Jimmies Creek

[4] Drury Boatwright, The Chesterfield Advertiser, Chesterfield, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, 10 July 1974, Military Records Tells Story of Two Pioneers.

Tombstone Tuesday – Johns

I never knew my Grandparents Johns. They both died before I was born; but, I heard many stories about them from my Mother. Mom told me they both died when her younger brother was very small. Mom always said that her Mother died one year, one month and one day after her father – Julius Johns was killed in a pedestrian-automobile accident.  

Julius Johns, my Grandfather, was born 4 March 1887 to Joseph Henry Johns and his wife Laura Driggers. He was struck by an automobile on Saturday night and died in a hospital in Monroe, Union County, North Carolina on Monday, May 16^th, 1937. 

FATAL HIGHWAY ACCIDENT - Julius Johns, age 51, of the Zoar section, died in a Monroe hospital Monday evening at 8:00 o'clock after having been struck by an automobile on highway No. 9 Saturday night at 8:20 o'clock. Testimony at the coroner's inquest late Wednesday afternoon tended to show that Mr. Johns was struck by an automobile driven by Mr. Fred (Dock) Hinson, that Mr. Johns was walking on the concrete near the junction of Highway No. 9 and the Zoar road. Evidence did not show that Hinson was driving at excessive speed. The coroner's verdict was that the accident was unavoidable. Mr. Johns was buried at Zoar Tuesday afternoon at 3 o'clock, services being conducted by the Rev. E. S. Dunbar and the Rev. F. M. Cannon. He had lived in this county for twenty-seven years. He was employed by W.P.A. on the Sandhill project at the time of his death. He is survived by his wife and seven children ranging in age from seven to 24 years. They are Carl, Mary, Luther, Willie, Ruby, Bennie and [still living].[1]

Grandma Mamie was born on 21 September 1889 to Benjamin Franklin Brock and Louise Ellen Sellers. She died 17 June 1938 in Chesterfield, South Carolina.  

Julius and Mamie were married 16 June 1912 in Chesterfield, South Carolina. They are buried at Zoar United Methodist Church Cemetery.

Genealogy Hint: For many years I could not find anything about my Grandfather accident. One day while talking to another genealogist he ask if I had checked surrounding areas. I replied yes. he replied, maybe he didn't die immediately where was the nearest hospital in 1937. The nearest hospital at that time was Monroe, NC and that is where my Grandfather died 3 days after the accident. 

_______________________

[1] "The Chesterfield Advertiser", May 20, 1937

Hardy Sellers Rev War Pension App

Hardy Sellers was born on 2 Mar 1757 in Johnson County, North Carolina. Hardy married Mary Cook, daughter of Abram Cook and Feebe Mastin. Mary died about 1824.Hardy Sellers and Mary Cook had eight (8) children.

Hardy then married Levinia Gulledge. Levinia Gulledge was a daughter of Joel Gulledge and Zilpha Huntley. She was born in 1803 in Anson County, North Carolina and died in Aug 1849 at the age of 46. Hardy Sellers and Levinia Gulledge had the two (2) children.

Hardy Sellers died 12 January 1835 at the age of 77 in Chesterfield, Chesterfield County, South Carolina. 

Hardy Sellers is my 5th great grandfather on my maternal line.

Pension application of Hardy Sellers R9377[1]

State of North Carolina, Anson County

On this 12th day of August 1834 personally appeared before me James Gordon one of the acting Justice of the Peace of Anson County - Hardy Sellers a Soldier of the Revolution he being very infirm aged 77 years who being first duly sworn according to law doth on his oath make the following Declaration in order to obtain the benefit of the Act of Congress passed June 7^th, 1832 - That he entered the service of the United States under the following named offices and served as herein stated he was a volunteer to serve in behalf of the United States in the year 1776 or 1777 as well as he recollects the day or month he does not recollect. I was a private in Capt. McMainer's^[2] Company called out by the authority of the State of South Carolina and march to Hadley's Point [sic, Haddrell's Point] near Charleston, South Carolina and from Haddrell’s Point to James Island and there remained until we were discharged. Served two months in actual service. Also in the year that Charleston was taken by the British I was a volunteer and served a tour of three months in actual service. I with a number of others marched under Capt. Griffy to Georgetown then to Lynches Crossway [sic, Lynches Causeway?] on Santee River then back to Georgetown again and from place to place until discharged. I think the troops was commanded by Col. McIntosh. Served three months and was discharged - and in the same year that Gen. Gates [Horatio Gates] was defeated I was a volunteer to serve three months. Marched under Capt. Stephen Jackson to Lynches Creek against the British and Tories then from place to place until discharged by our officers. Served three months in actual services - after the above service we were all laid off into divisions first second and third and so on and each division was to serve as it come to his turn. The tours was to be a month at a time. I served two tours of division service with Capt. Griffy under Gen. Marion. Marched up and down Santee River after the British and Tories until discharged. Served two months and was discharged by our officers - Also I served two tours of a month in each tour with Capt. Jackson under Gen. Marion in pursuit of British and Tories also two tours with Lieutenant Jones and two tours with Lieutenant Charles Jackson of Division Service under Gen. Marion making in all my service so far as I can recollect a period of sixteen months for which I claim a pension but it is far short of all my services rendered the United States during the Revolutionary War as I was called out after the company was laid off in divisions to march under Gen. Marion it is impossible for me to make any further statement at present - I have no papers to prove any services nor do I know of any person now living by whom I could prove my services except one man and he turned a Tory after we had served together one tour. I could not think of making use of his testimony.

Q1: Where and in what year were you born?

Ans: In Johnson County, NC, March 2, 1757

Q2: Have you any record of your age and if so, where is it?

Ans: No written record by my parents has told me I was born March 2, 1757

Q3: Where were you living when called into service and where have you lived ever since the

Revolutionary War and where do you now live?

Ans: I lived in South Carolina, Chesterfield District near the North Carolina line and has continued to live there ever since.

Q4: How were you called into service, were you drafted, did you volunteer or were you a substitute and if a substitute, for whom?

Ans: A volunteer or division or classment service.

Q5: State the names of some of the regular officers who were with the troops where you served such continental and militia regiments as you can recollect and the general circumstances of your service.

Ans: Gen. Green thou I was with him but a short time. Gen. Marion these were continental officers as I understood. Col. McIntosh, Col. Murphy, Capt. Griffy, Capt. Jackson and Capt. McMannes, Lieutenants Jones and Jackson, these were militia officers at the time of my service.

Q6: Did you ever receive a discharge from the service and if so by whom, when was it given and what has become of it?

Ans: I received written discharges from my different officers but what has become of them I know not.

Q7: State the names of persons to whom you are known in your present neighborhood and who can testify to your character for veracity and their belief of your service as a soldier of the Revolution.

Ans: John Phillips, Rev. Joel Gulledge, Col. Ratliff, Peter May Esq.

He hereby relinquishes every claim whatever to a pension or annuity except the present and declare his name is not on the pension role of the agency of any State whatever the reasons for making application in North Carolina is I live near the State line and is most convenient for me in my helpless situation. Sworn to and subscribed the day and year above.

Test S/ J Gordan, JP                                           S/ Hardy Sellers

We Joel Gulledge Clergyman residing in the same County and State and neighborhood and John Phillips residing in the same, we hereby certify that we are well acquainted with Hardy Sellers the applicant who has subscribed and sworn to the above declaration that we believe him to be of the age therein stated that he is reputed and believed in the neighborhood where he resides to have been a soldier in the Revolutionary War and that we concur in the opinion.

Sworn to and subscribed the day and year aforesaid.

Test J.; Gordan – JP                                             S/ Joel Gulledge Sr.

                                                                             S/ John Phillips

State of North Carolina, Anson County

This may certify that I knew Mr. Hardy Sellers in the Revolutionary War, we both belong and muster in Capt. Griffy's Company we were laid off into divisions or in classes each class served as it come to its turn. I belong to one class and Hardy Sellers to another and that he was a friend to his country and served as it come to his turn and that his statement as a Soldier of the Revolution is entitled to credit. Also I have known him ever since the Revolutionary War and that he continues to be a man of veracity, November 14, 1834.

Test J. Gordan S/                                       Richard Graves,^[3] X his mark

 ________________________________

[1] Will Graves, Charles B. Baxley, Southern Campaigns of the America Revolution,

(http://www.southerncampaign.org/ : viewed and downloaded 22 April 2012), Pension application R9377, Hardy Sellers.

[2] Bobby Moss, in his SC Roster, lists a Thomas McManis and a Thomas McManess to whom this MIGHT be a reference.

[3] Richard Graves S8598, http://revwarapps.org/#m

[4] Special THANKS goes to Will Graves the transcriber of the Pension application of Hardy Sellers R9377, Transcribed by Will Graves on 6/26/11 and posted on http://www.southerncampaign.org or a direct link to pension apps at: http://revwarapps.org/#m

       

Will of Sarah Ann Hurst Boatwright

Sarah Ann Hurst, born 10 May 1826[1] was a daughter of Isaac Hurst and Henrietta Rivers. She married Samuel Boatwright about 1851. In 1850 Samuel was still at home with his parents, Lewis Boatwright and Elizabeth Rebecca Davis Boatwright.  

Sarah and Samuel's first born William Manley Boatwright was born   13 December 1852.  They had four additional children – John Calvin "Cally"; Isaac James; Nancy and Mary Lucinda Boatwright.  John Calvin moved to Florida and died there in 1938.

Samuel Boatwright died 19 Feb 1863[2] as a very young man at the age of 30. Samuel Boatwright Estate[3] was probated in January 1866. At his death, Sarah was left with 5 children ranging in age from 1 year old to age 11. She remained a widower the remainder of her life. She died 8 June 1910[4].

Samuel & Sarah are buried in the Boatwright Family Cemetery, Chesterfield, South Carolina.

The following is a transcription of her Will on file at the Chesterfield County Courthouse.

Sarah Ann Boatwright Will[5]

South Carolina}

Chesterfield County} I, Sarah Ann [Hurst] Boatwright of said County and State do make this my last will and testament revoking any and all former wills by me made.

1.   I give, devise and bequeath unto my daughter Mary Lucinda Tucker all of my property of every kind whatever that I may be seized of and possess at the time of my death, it being my intention that the said Mary Lucinda Tucker shall [have] all the property I have at my death. In witness whereof I hereunto sign my name and affix my seal 1st March A. D. 1904

Signed, Sealed and Published

And declared by the above Named Sarah Ann Boatwright As and for her Last Will and Testament in the presence Of us, who in her presence and in the presence of each Other and at her request have hereunto subscribed our names as witnesses}

Witness                                                      her

B. F. Funderburk                       Sarah Ann X Boatwright {seal}

J. A. Threat                                               mark

W. C. West

Chesterfield County, South Carolina Probate Office, Will Book 2, Page 167. [Source: Mary Eddins Johnson]

---

[1] Jim Tipton, Find A Grave, digital image, http://findagrave.com; Headstone for Sarah Ann Hurst Boatwright; (10 March 1826–8 June 1910); Memorial # 83583139; Record of the Boatwright Family Cemetery; Chesterfield, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, USA; Accessed on 22 April 2012.

[2] Jim Tipton, Find A Grave, digital image, http://findagrave.com; Headstone for Samuel Boatwright; (5 August 1832–19 February 1863); Memorial # 83583111; Record of the Boatwright Family Cemetery; Chesterfield, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, USA; Accessed on 22 April 2012.

[3] South Carolina Probate Records, Files and Loose Papers, 1732-1964," Church of Jesus Christ of the Latter Day Saints, Family Search (https://www.familysearch.org/ : viewed 22 April 2012), Probate Folder #80, "Samuel Boatwright," image 367 of 482

[4] Jim Tipton, Find A Grave, digital image, http://findagrave.com; Headstone for Sarah Ann Hurst Boatwright; (10 March 1826–8 June 1910); Memorial # 83583139; Record of the Boatwright Family Cemetery; Chesterfield, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, USA; Accessed on 22 April 2012.

[5] Chesterfield County, South Carolina, Book 2, page 167, Last Will & Testament of Sarah Ann Boatwright; Probate Office, Chesterfield, Chesterfield County, South Carolina.

Surname Saturday – James Rivers of Chesterfield, SC

Today's spotlighted individual is somewhat a mystery. Not much is known about his life.

James Rivers was born about 1835 in Chesterfield County, South Carolina.[1] James Rivers and Nancy A. Dozier were married in Chesterfield County, South Carolina.[2] Nancy A. Dozier, was a daughter of Britton Dozier. James River was the youngest son of William Rivers & Elizabeth "Betsy" Rivers.

A note within the files of Leon Madison Rivers (Box 1, Folder 75) at the Caroliniana Library, Columbia, SC,  states "James Rivers married Dozier [Nancy A.]." <Leon M. Rivers Genealogical Collection, South Caroliniana Library, Columbia, SC, Box 1, Folder 75, reviewed 24 March 2004>.

This note sent me looking for a source for this information. The only known source that references this marriage is contained within the "Burnt Book" on file in the Probate Judge Office, Chesterfield Court House, Chesterfield, SC.

The following information is from the BURNT DEED BOOK: [3]

"BURNT DEED BOOK: Chesterfield County, SC; Page 50, Land Deed between John C. Davis to Thomas C. Davis Deed: Parts illegible, Burnt. Visible names and comments are: John C. Davis to Thomas C. Davis Deed; Wm. A. Rivers, Estate Lands of Britton Dozier, laid off to Nancy A. [Dozier] Rivers the wife of James Rivers, dated 22nd Day of December 1859".

Family folklore says that James Rivers died in the Civil War. The National Parks Service (NPS) Civil War Soldiers and Sailors System,- http://www.itd.nps.gov/cwss/ -- has 4 James Rivers listed but I have not been able to determine if either of these 4 men is the correct James Rivers. Also on Fold3.com, there are only four (4) James Rivers from South Carolina – James Rivers, James  S. Rivers, James  K. Rivers and James R. Rivers. None of these 4 Rivers matches age information or enlistment place for a James Rivers from Chesterfield County, SC.  There are no James Rivers listed in "Broken Fortune" [4] by Randolph W. Kirkland,  Jr. Nor, is there a James Rivers listed in the "Roll of the Dead".[5]

To date, this is all the known information for either James Rivers or Nancy A. Dozier.

If you have information on this couple please contact me at my e-mail.

---

[1] 1850 U. S. Census, Chesterfield District, South Carolina, population schedule, Chesterfield District, South Carolina, Page 179B, Line 16, family 1242, dwelling 1242, Household of William Rivers; digital images, Ancestry.com (http://www.ancestry.com : accessed 2010); citing National Archives Microfilm M432 Roll 851.

[2] Chesterfield County, South Carolina, BURNT DEED BOOK: page 50, Land Deed between John C. Davis to Thomas C. Davis Deed; 22 December 1859, Register of Deeds, Chesterfield, Chesterfield County, South Carolina. 

[3] The "Burnt Deed Book or Burnt Book" is a book that was recovered from being destroyed during the Civil War.

[4] A book listing SC soldiers, sailors & citizen who died in the service of their country and state in the War for Southern Independence, 1861-1865. 

[5] Roll of the Dead : South Carolina troops, Confederate States service, by William J. Rivers, South Carolina. Dept. of Archives and History

Will of P. A. Sellers

Phillip A. Sellers was born  3 May 1818 in Chesterfield County, SC to Roland Sellers and Margaret Eddins. He married Martha Ann Brooks bout 1844, he died 2 July 1902 in Anson County, NC. Phillip and Margaret had 12 children.  The twelve children are all mentioned in the will. His wife Margaret preceded him in death on 27 December 1889.

P.A. Sellers Will[1]

Will Book "D"

Page 512-514

State of North Carolina,

Anson County

I Phillip A. Sellers, of the aforesaid County and State, being of sound mind, but considering the uncertainty of any being existence do make and declare this my last will and testament.

First, my executor, herein after named, shall give my body a decent burial, suitable to the wishes of my family and relatives and pay all funeral expenses together with all my just debts- out of the first money which may come into his hands belonging to my estate.

Second, I give and bequeath to my daughters Helen and Flora Sellers my entire household and kitchen furniture. Also all my hogs, horses and mule, buggies, wagons, and all my farming implements- share and share alike.

Third, I devise to my said daughters Helen and Flora Sellers and their heirs in fee simple, a tract of land bought of E. R. Simons Dec. 10th, 1878, said to contain two hundred and forth-five acres more or less, and another tract bought of Henry Riley Hinson May 25th 1883 said to contain seventy-eight acres, more or less, share and share alike.

Fourth, I devise to my said daughters John C. Sellers one tract of land bought of John A. Martin Janry 18th, 1860, said to contain thirty-one and one half acres more or less. Another tract bought of Simeon C. Liles administrator of Henry Diggs Febry 10th, 1974 said to contain two hundred and nineteen acres more or less, for his natural life and then to his children forever.

Fifth, I give and bequeath to my son William B. Sellers the sum of one dollar, to be paid by my executor within two years of the date of my death, out of the moneys belonging to my estate, not otherwise disposed of.

Sixth, I give and bequeath to my daughter Sarah F. Hinson the sum of one dollar, to be paid by my executor within two years of the date of my death, out of the moneys belonging to my estate, not

otherwise disposed of.

Seventh, I give and bequeath to my daughter Margaret Hinson the sum of one dollar, to be paid by my executor within two years of the date of my death, out of the moneys belonging to my estate, not

otherwise disposed of.

Eight, I give and bequeath to my daughter Harriet Deese the sum of one dollar, to be paid by my executor within one year of the date of my death, out of the moneys belonging to my estate, not

otherwise disposed of.

Ninth, I give and bequeath to my daughter Martha Wright the sum of one dollar, to be paid by my executor within two years of the date of my death, out of the moneys belonging to my estate, not

otherwise disposed of.

Tenth, I give and bequeath to my daughter Alice Swink the sum of one dollar, to be paid by my executor within two years of the date of my death, out of the moneys belonging to my estate, not

otherwise disposed of.

Eleventh, I give and bequeath to the children of my son T. B. Sellers, now deceased, the sum of one dollar, to be paid by my executor within two years of the date of my death, out of the moneys belonging to my estate, not otherwise disposed of.

Twelfth, I give and bequeath to my daughter Susan Webb the sum of one dollar, to be paid by my executor within one year of the date of my death, out of the moneys belonging to my estate, not

otherwise disposed of.

Thirteenth, I give and bequeath to my daughter Dora Smith the sum of one dollar, to be paid by my executor within one year of the date of my death, out of the moneys belonging to my estate, not

otherwise disposed of.

Fourteenth, My will and desire is that all the residue of my estate after taking out the devises and legacies above mentioned, shall be sold and the debts owing to me collected, and if there should be

any surplus over and above the payment of debts, expenses and legacies that such surplus shall be equally divided and paid over to my said children, except my said daughter Dora Smith who is not

to receive any part of my estate except which has herein before been bequeathed to her in equal proportions, share and share alike.

Fifteenth, I hereby constitutes and appoint my trusty friend, my son John C Sellers my lawful executor to all intents- and purposes to execute this my last will and testament, according to the true intent and meaning of the same and every part and clause thereof, hereby revoking and declaring utterly void all other wills and testaments by me heretofore made. In witness I the said Phillip A. Sellers do hereunto set my hand and seal this 13th day if February 1901.

P. A. Sellers Seal

Signed, sealed, published and declared

by Phillip A. Sellers to be his last

Will and testament in the presence of

us who at his request and in his presence

do subscribe our names as witness thereto-

B. V. Henry

T. A. Horne

State of North Carolina

Anson County

In the Superior Court

The foregoing paper writing purporting to be the last will and testament of the late Phillip A. Sellers of said county is this day propounded for probate in our said Superior Court by John C. Sellers the executor named therein and the due execution thereof is proved by the oath and examination of Byron V. Henry and Thomas A. Horne the subscribing witnesses thereto who being severely duly sworn according to law, do depose and say, and each for himself deposeth and saith, that at the date therein named the Phillip A. sellers signed his name at the end of said paper writing and declared the same to be his last will and testament, in the presence of these witnesses and that there upon these witnesses signed their names thereto as witnesses in the presence of the testator, and at his request and that at the times of the execution thereof as aforesaid by the testator and the attestation thereof by these witnesses the said Phillip A. Sellers was of sound mind and memory, of full age to execute a will, and was not under restraint to the knowledge, information,  or belief of these witnesses. Therefore, let said paper writing be admitted to probate and recorded as the last will and testament of the said Phillip A. Sellers, deceased. Done at office in Wadesboro, this the 22nd day of July AD 1902 when and where the said John C. Sellers qualifies as Executor and letters of testimony issued to him.

John C. McLanchlin

Clerk of the Superior Court

---

[1] Anson County, North Carolina, FHL microfilm 018160:Will Book "D", pages 512-514 WILL of P. A. Sellers; Family History Library, Salt Lake City, Utah.