52 Ancestors: #31, William Kenson “Billy" Previtte

Amy Johnson Crow of No Story To Small has started a challenge of 52 Ancestors in 52 Weeks.

From her blog “The challenge: have one blog post each week devoted to a specific ancestor. It could be a story, a biography, a photograph, an outline of a research problem — anything that focuses on one ancestor. Not only should this get me blogging more, but also to take a deeper look at some of the people in my family tree.”

The focus of today’s blog posting is William Kenson “Billy Previtte.

William Kenson "Billy" Previtte was born on 30 Jun 1857 in Anson County, North Carolina, United States.^{1 2 3 4 5} Billy died on 24 Jul 1907 at the age of 50  and was buried at Zoar United Methodist Church Cemetery in Chesterfield, Chesterfield, South Carolina.^6 7 8

William Kenson "Billy" Previtte and Henrietta Elizabeth Davis were married in 1882 in Chesterfield County, South Carolina, United States.⁹

Henrietta Elizabeth Davis, daughter of William Alfred Davis and Nancy J. Hurst, was born on 7 Sep 1865 in Chesterfield County, South Carolina, United States.^{10 11 12 13 14 15}  Henrietta died on 23 Jul 1945 at the age of 79 and was buried on 24 Jul 1945 at Zoar United Methodist Church Cemetery in Chesterfield, Chesterfield, South Carolina.^16 17 18

William Kenson Previtte and Henrietta Elizabeth Davis had the following children:

i. Nancy Jane "Nana" Previtte, born 31 Jul 1882, Chesterfield County, South Carolina; married Robert Lee Webb; died 22 Oct 1947, Chesterfield, Chesterfield, South Carolina.
ii. John Washington Previtte, born 3 Apr 1886, Chesterfield County, South Carolina; married Allie Freeman, 17 Jul 1921, Chesterfield County, South Carolina; died 29 Jul 1957, Chesterfield, Chesterfield, South Carolina.
iii. Frances Elizabeth "Fannie" Previtte, born 25 Oct 1887, Chesterfield, Chesterfield, South Carolina; married John Nelson Davis, bef 1930; died 12 Apr 1951, Chesterfield, Chesterfield, South Carolina.
iv. Mary Anne Previtte, born 4 Jul 1889, Chesterfield, Chesterfield, South Carolina; married Clarance Dupree Stroud; died 11 Apr 1964.
v. William Alfred Previtte, born 10 Oct 1890, Chesterfield County, South Carolina; married Mary Belle Sellers, 29 Dec 1912, Chesterfield, Chesterfield, South Carolina; died 29 Mar 1951, Chesterfield, Chesterfield, South Carolina.
vi. Laura Ella Previtte, born 12 Dec 1892, Chesterfield County, South Carolina; married William Eli Sellers, 10 Jan 1915, Chesterfield, Chesterfield, South Carolina; died 29 Dec 1928, Chesterfield, Chesterfield, South Carolina.
vii. Hannah Elizabeth Previtte, born 1 Jan 1900, Chesterfield, Chesterfield, South Carolina; married William Daniel Hinson, 8 Aug 1920, Chesterfield, Chesterfield, South Carolina; died 1 Oct 1991, Chesterfield, Chesterfield, South Carolina.
viii. Isaac Quin Previtte was born on 12 Sep 1902 in Chesterfield County, South Carolina. He died on 30 Sep 1902 at the age of 18 days in Chesterfield County, South Carolina.
ix. James L. Previtte was born on 1 Jan 1904 in Chesterfield County, South Carolina. He died on 6 Jan 1904 at the age of 5 days in Chesterfield County, South Carolina.
 
William Kenson “Billy” Previtte is my Great Grand Uncle.



 
___________________________________
1. Find A Grave, Inc., Find A Grave, database and digital images, (http://www.findagrave.com : accessed 4 June 2012); Memorial page for William Kenson Previtt; (30 June 1857–24 July 1907); Find a Grave memorial # 47251020, Citing Zoar United Methodist Church Cemetery; Brocks Mill, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, USA.
2. 1860 U. S. Census, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, population schedule, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, enumeration district (ED) No ED, Page 128B, Line 35, Dwelling/Family 494/493, Household of John Previtt; digital images, Ancestry.com (http://www.ancestry.com : viewed 21 July 2011); citing National Archives Microfilm M653_1217.
3. 1870 U. S. Census, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, population schedule, Court House, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, Page: 291B, Line 36, Household 85/85, Household of J. W. PRIVETT; digital images, Ancestry.com (http://www.ancestry.com : viewed 21 July 2011); citing National Archives Microfilm M593_1491.
4. 1880 U. S. Census, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, population schedule, Court House, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, enumeration district (ED) #5, Page: 326B, Line 43,, Dwelling 291, Family 291, Household of John PRIVOTT; digital image, Ancestry.com (http://www.ancestry.com : viewed 21 July 2011); citing National Archive Microfilm T9, Roll 1225.
5. 1900 U. S. Census, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, population schedule, Court House, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, enumeration district (ED) 21, Page 107A, Line 16, Dwelling 422, Family 429, Household of William K. PRIVETT; digital images, Ancestry.com (http://ancestry.com : viewed 4 June 2012); citing National Archives Microfilm T623_Roll: 1523.
6. Find A Grave, Inc., Find A Grave, database, "Record, William Kenson Previtt (30 June 1857–24 July 1907), Memorial # 47251020.
7. Ibid.
8. Ibid.
9. 1900 U. S. Census, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, population schedule, Court House, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, ED 21, Page 107A, Line 16, Dwelling 422, Family 429, Household of William K. PRIVETT.
10. Henretta Privett, death certificate (long) 007741 (23 July 1945), Vital Records, Department of Health and Environmental Control, Columbia, Richland County, South Carolina.
11. 1870 U. S. Census, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, Population Schedule, Court House, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, ED No ED, Page 288B, Line 20, Dwelling/Family 17/17, Household of W. A. DAVIS.
12. 1880 U. S. Census, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, Population Schedule, Chesterfield County, South Carolina;, ED #5, Page 327C; Line 7, Dwelling 293, Family 293, Household of W. A. DAVIS.
13. 1900 U. S. Census, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, population schedule, Court House, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, ED 21, Page 107A, Line 16, Dwelling 422, Family 429, Household of William K. PRIVETT.
14. 1910 U. S. Census, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, population schedule, Court House, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, enumeration district (ED) 0037, Page: 10A/136A(stamped); Line 39, Dwelling 170, Family 170, Household of Henrietta PRIVETT; digital images, Ancestry.com (http://ancestry.com : viewed 30 August 2012); citing National Archives Microfilm T624_1455.
15. 1930 U. S. Census, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, population schedule, Court House, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, enumeration district (ED) 17, Page 6B/47B(stamped); Line 64, Dwelling 96, Family 103, Household of Nannie WEBB; digital images, Ancestry.com (http://ancestry.com : viewed 30 August 2012); citing National Archives Microfilm T626_Roll: 2192.
16. Henretta Privett, Chesterfield County, South Carolina death certificate 007741 (23 July 1945).
17. Find A Grave, Inc., Find A Grave, database, "Record, Henrietta Previtt (7 September 1865–23 July 1945), Memorial # 47184548.
18. Ibid.

Amanuensis Monday~David W. Graves to Malcolm Decker Land Deed

Amanuensis Monday is a genealogy blogging theme. It was started by John Newmark who writes the TransylvanianDutch blog.
 
His definition of Amanuensis is:
Amanuensis: A person employed to write what another dictates or to copy what has been written by another.
Today’s subject is a Land Deed from David W. Graves to Malcom Decker, dated 28 March 1877.¹
The State of South Carolina
                                                     Know all men by these presents that I David W. Graves of the County of Chesterfield in the State aforesaid in consideration of the sum of two hundred ($200) dollars to me in hand paid at and before the Sealing of these presents by Malcolm Decker of the County of Chesterfield in the State aforesaid (the receipt whereof is hereby acknowledged) have granted, bargained,  Sold and released and by these presents do grant, bargain, Sell and release unto the said Malcolm Decker all that certain piece, parcel or tract of land Situate lying and being in the County of Chesterfield in the State of South Carolina containing 217 acres more or less bounded on the North by Thompkins  line and on the East by the Public Road and the Thomas land on the South by a small Branch or brook and only West by the McIntyre land and has such form, marks and bounds  as is represented by a platt of resurvey made by Randal McDonald and certify by him on the 23rd day of the December  one thousand eight hundred and twenty two (1822)  a copy of which plat is hereunto annexed Together with all and singular the Rights, Members, Hereditaments  and Appurtenances to the said premises belonging or in any wise incident or appertaining to have and to hold all and Singular the said premises performed mentioned unto the said Malcolm Decker his heirs and Assigns forever, And I do hereby bind myself, my heirs Executors and Administrators to warrant and forever against all and singular the said premise unto the said Malcolm Decker his Heirs and Assigns against myself and my heirs and all other persons lawfully claiming or to claim the Same or any part thereof.  Witness my hand and seal this twenty eight (28th) day of March in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and seventy seven (1877) and in the one hundred and first (101st) year of the Sovereignty of the United States of America
                                                                       David W. Graves
Signed, Sealed and delivered}
in the presence of }
T. G. Blue}
P.J. Stafford}
The State of South Carolina
Chesterfield County
                                                                    Personally appeared before me P.J. Stafford and made oath that he Saw the within named David W. Graves, Sign, Seal and as his act and deed deliver the within Written deed and that he with Thomas G Blue witnessed  the execution thereof.
Signed before me}                                             P. J. Spofford
the 4th day of October 1880}
Thomas F. Mulloy
Clk
The State of South Carolina}
Chesterfield County}
                           I, Donald Matheson a Notary Public duly commissioned and qualified do certified unto all whom it may concern that Mrs. Mary Ann Graves the wife of the within named D. W. Graves did this day appear before me and upon being privately and Separately Examined by me did declared that she was freely, voluntarily and without any compulsion, dread or fear of any person or persons  whomsoever renounce, release and forever relinquish unto the within named Malcolm Decker his Heirs and Assigns all her interest and Estate and also all her right and claim of dower of, in or to all and Singular the premises within mentioned and released given under my hand and Seal this 25th day of December Anno Domenici Eighteen hundred and Seventy Seven.
D Matheson  (LS)}                                   Mary Ann Graves
Notary Public}
Auditors Office}
Chesterfield County}
                            Recorded in the Sales Book “A”, Oct.  4, 1880
                page 165                     C. L.  Evans, Auditor
                           Recorded 4th  Oct. 1880
          Origin’l dlvd to Malcolm Decker
Chesterfield County Deed Book 6, pages 151-153
David W. Graves married Mary Anne Gulledge abut 1872, Mary Ann was the daughter of Daniel Gulledge and Jane Henderson. about the same time Malcolm Decker married Catherine Gulledge, the sister of Mary Anne.
On the same day the above action took place, Catherine Decker “release unto the said David W. Graves all my third interest in one track of one hundred seven (107) acres of land more or less in Chesterfield County, situate on Bay branch and bounded on the North, West and the South by lands of M. G. TANH? and W. W. Knight, and on the East by Estate lands of Daniel Gulledge,…”²
These two transaction seems to be a consolidation of the 2/3 interested (Mary Ann & Catherine) in land formerly belonging to Daniel Gulledge and the selling of the consolidated parcel to Malcolm Decker. 
David W. Graves is my 3rd Great Grandfather.
________________________________
[1] Chesterfield County, South Carolina, Deed Book 6: pages 151-153, David W. Graves to Malcolm Decker; Register of Deeds, Chesterfield, Chesterfield County, South Carolina.
[2] Chesterfield County, South Carolina, Deed Book 5: pages 327-328, C[atherine] Decker to the D. W. Graves Deed; Register of Deeds, Chesterfield, Chesterfield County, South Carolina.

Surname Saturday~Purvis-Pervis

The surname Purvis/Pervis was not a major surname in the early history of this United States yet, it has been one of my more difficult surnames to research.

Purvis Name Meaning

Scottish and northern English (Northumberland and Durham): probably from Middle English purveys ‘provisions’, ‘supplies’ (from Middle English purvey(en), Old French porveoir ‘to provide, supply’), hence a metonymic occupational name for an official responsible for obtaining supplies for a monastery or manor house.

Source: Dictionary of American Family Names ©2013, Oxford University Press ²

For 38+ years I have searched for my 2nd Great Grandfather William A. Purvis, born between 1823-1827 in either NC or SC (date & place represents variation in the 3 census he appears in 1860-1870-1880 Anson County, North Carolina).
In 1790 there were only  17 Heads of household in the entire united states; 13 Purvis and 4 Pervis families.

Purvis

Pervis

With the exception of two families they were all either in North Carolina or South Carolina with the majority in South Carolina.  

Just across the state line from Anson County is Chesterfield County South Carolina. Anson County, NC and Chesterfield County, SC have a common shared border – the state line. Also in Chesterfield County in 1790 was a Gilbert Purvis, head of household.

In 1800, the Purvis/Pervis surname has grown a little and spread from the Carolinas and Pennsylvania to Delaware and Maine


There was also 3 Pervis families in Delaware.


Back in South Carolina the heads of Households in nearby Chesterfield County has grown to 8 families. This represents a significant increase in families in just 10 years. 



The potential for finding William A. Purvis parents are increasing expeditiously; however, there is one small problem. General William T. Sherman and his Union forces felt it was necessary to burn all public records in the County of Chesterfield to teach it’s citizens a lesson. Thus there are little to no documents to proved or reject a lineage. 

By 1810, There has been another increased of the Purvis/Pervis surname and now they have spread out to Louisiana, New York and Virginia. There were 17 Purvis heads of Household and 3 Pervis located in Delaware




In Chesterfield County, SC the families had slightly decreased from 8 families to 5 families.


In 1820, we find 30 Purvis families located in the following states – Indiana (1); Kentucky (2); Louisiana(2); Maryland (1); Michigan(1); New York(2); North Carolina(4); Ohio(1); Pennsylvania(3); South Carolina(5); Tennessee(3) and Virginia(5).  


There was also 11 Pervis families located in Georgia(4); Indiana(1); Kentucky(4); Mississippi (1) and North Carolina (1). The combined total is 41 Purvis/Pervis families enumerated in the Census in 1820. 


In South Carolina we have 5 families and it’s reasonable to say that one of these 5 families could be the parents of William A. Purvis, born between 1823 and 1827 in one of the Carolinas. These 5 families are:


Of the 5 families in South Carolina in 1820; only two are enumerated in Chesterfield County.

• John Purvis
• Samuel Purvis
• Ann Purvis (located next door in Darlington County, SC)

The absence of record in this burned county (Chesterfield) resulted in my move to use DNA to help solved the problem. I did a Y-67 Test with Family Tree DNA about two years ago. The results show an almost perfect match with Joseph Purves (1770 – 1841) in Chirnside, Berwick, Scotland.³ Bridging this gap between Joseph 1841 and William A. Purvis, 1823-27 is a monumental task.

In April of this year I migrated my result over to FTDNA Family Family and immediately had what I consider a significant match. I have also tested with 23andMe.

For years I have an intuition that somehow my line was connected to the Chesterfield County Purvis primarily due to proximity. Family Finder confirmed that a “MILEY” descendant of James F. Purvis, Sr. born 1760 and myself are projected to be 5th cousins to remote. Jerry is a direct descendant of James F. Purvis, Sr., born 1760. James F. Purvis is a brother to Gilbert Purvis and both are sons of John Purvis and Sarah Johnson married 2 April 1746, Prince Frederick,Craven County, South Carolina.⁴ 

The biggest challenge I am facing today is getting descendant's to have their DNA tested. There is still a large segment of our present day society that is fearful of having these DNA tested and kept on file someplace. 


________________________
[1] Special Thanks to “Heritage Quest” for the census surname lists used throughout this article. 
[2] http://www.ancestry.com/name-origin?surname=purvis
[3] http://www.worldfamilies.net/surnames/purvis/results
[4] National Society of the Colonial Dames of America, The Regster Book of Parish Prince Frederick Winyaw (Baltimore, Maryland: William & Wilkins Company, 1916), page 55.

Military Appointments -1861

APPOINTMENTS TO THE MILITARY ACADEMY FOR 1861. ---The following is the official list of the appointments to the State Military Academy for the present year:  [Those names marked thus (with an asterisk) are appointed to the Citadel. The others to the Arsenal.]. ¹












CHESTERFIELD.
W. A. Blue,
J. L. Jordan,
W. H. Jordan,
A. Blakeley,
B. C. Evans,
J. Y. Westervelt

South Carolina in 1861 had two main military schools within the state - The Citadel Academy in Charleston and The Arsenal Academy in Columbia.

“The Citadel, The Military College of South Carolina (SC) was established by the South Carolina Legislature on Dec 20, 1842. The original name of the college was the South Carolina Military Academy (SCMA). It was established as a four-year college built upon the Citizen-Soldier tradition and patterned after the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, NY. The original college consisted of two schools: 1) The Citadel Academy in Charleston, SC and 2) The Arsenal Academy in Columbia, SC.” ²

The Arsenal Academy was “burned to rubble” by the forces of General William T. Sherman under the command of Maj. Gen. Francis P. Blair during the sacking and burning of Columbia, South Carolina in February 1865. 

As I put this posting together I wonder what impact the Civil War had on the education of these young men. Did they finish their education or were they consumed by the events of that time.  




________________________
[1] “The Charleston Mercury”, Charleston , South Carolina, 4 December 1861, page 2.
[2] http://www.citadelhistory.org/historyFAQ.html

52 Ancestors: #30, Sarah Jane Davis Freeman

 

Amy Johnson Crow of No Story To Small has started a challenge of 52 Ancestors in 52 Weeks.
From her blog “The challenge: have one blog post each week devoted to a specific ancestor. It could be a story, a biography, a photograph, an outline of a research problem — anything that focuses on one ancestor. Not only should this get me blogging more, but also to take a deeper look at some of the people in my family tree.”
 
The focus of today’s blog posting is Sarah Jane Davis Freeman.

Sarah Jane Davis was born about 1804, a daughter of Thomas Davis and Nancy Rivers in Chesterfield County, South Carolina. ^{1 2 3 4 5} She was the eighth born of 11 children; six brothers and 4 sisters. She died after 1870 in Chesterfield, Chesterfield, South Carolina.
 
Sarah Jane Davis married Jesse Freeman about 1826 in Chesterfield County, South Carolina.
Jesse Freeman was born also about 1804 in Chesterfield County, SC.⁶ Jesse and Sarah are enumerated in the Chesterfield County census from 1830-1870 and Jesse is listed in the 1880 Census. ^{7 8 9 10}  They lived their entire life in Chesterfield County where they owned and farmed the 200 acres home place. In 1860 they seemed to be quite successful showing real estate valued at $1500 and personal property valued at $1000.00. Jesse and Sarah lost two sons during the Civil War, John F. died on 21 June 1864 and Jesse died on 24 June 1864. 
 
Sarah passed away sometime before the 1880 census enumeration.  No document, obituary or tombstone has been found to narrow the date that Sarah died; only that she died between 1870 and 1880. These seem unusual for a couple doing so good in 1860 unless the ”hard times” of the Reconstruction Era (1865-1876) took their toil on the farm. Jesse is enumerated in the 1880 census and he has a new wife named Mary LNU (Last name unknown). 
 
Jessie died in Jul 1881 at the age of 77.  At his death, two of his daughters along with their husbands file a “Complaint for Relief” against the other named heirs.^{11 12–13-14}
 
The following is item two of that complaint.

II. That the said Jessie Freeman left Surviving him as his heirs at law and Distributees His Widow Mary Freeman, [2nd Wife] and the following children to wit:
William Freeman, Louis Freeman, Christine Turnage the wife of Robert Turnage, Ann Hall the wife of Joseph Hall, Elizabeth Posten the wife of Elisha Poston and your Complainants Mary Ann Wadsworth and Effie Purvis and also and <sic> granddaughter named Temple Parr, the wife of Samuel Parr who is a child of a daughter of testator named Jane which said daughter of testator had been intermarried with one Benjamin Brock and predeceased her said father Jesse Freeman.
 
As indicated in the above complaint Jesse Freeman and Sarah Jane Davis had the following children:
i. Sarah Ann Freeman, born 14 Jul 1827, Chesterfield, Chesterfield, South Carolina; married John D. Odom, abt 1856, Chesterfield County, South Carolina; died 21 Jun 1882, Chesterfield, Chesterfield, South Carolina.
ii. Mary Ann Freeman, born 2 Oct 1829, Chesterfield County, South Carolina; married Lewis H. Wadsworth, 28 Dec 1849, Chesterfield County, South Carolina died 5 Feb 1901, Chesterfield, Chesterfield, South Carolina.
iii. Lewis L. Freeman, born 27 Feb 1832, Chesterfield County, South Carolina; married Mary A. Parr, 24 Mar 1853, Chesterfield County, South Carolina; died 20 Jan 1898, Pacolet, Spartanburg, South Carolina.
iv. Jane Freeman, born 1834, Chesterfield County, South Carolina; married Benjamin Brock, abt 1854, Chesterfield, Chesterfield, South Carolina; died bef 1881, Chesterfield County, South Carolina.
v. William M. "Bill" Freeman, born 9 Aug 1836, Chesterfield, Chesterfield, South Carolina; married Sarah Ann Davis, 1860, Chesterfield County, South Carolina; died 27 Jul 1922, Chesterfield, Chesterfield, South Carolina. 
vi. Jesse Freeman, born 1838, Chesterfield County, South Carolina; married Ann LNU, abt 1860; died 24 Jun 1864, Petersburg, Virginia.
vii. John F. Freeman was born in 1842 in Chesterfield, Chesterfield, South Carolina.^{15 16 17} He served in the military Civil War in 1861–1865.^18–19 He died on 21 Jun 1864 at the age of 22 in Ft. Monroe, VA.²⁰
viii. Christian Freeman, born 15 Apr 1843, Chesterfield, Chesterfield, South Carolina; married Robert Bennett Turnage, abt 1855, Chesterfield County, South Carolina; died 29 Aug 1892, Chesterfield, Chesterfield, South Carolina.
ix. Sarah A. Freeman was born in 1847 in Chesterfield, Chesterfield, South Carolina.
x. Rosa Effie Freeman, born 1848, Chesterfield, Chesterfield, South Carolina; married Corp. Stephen David Purvis, abt 1865; died 1884, Chesterfield County, South Carolina.
xi. Ann Elizabeth "Annie" Freeman, born Mar 1850, Chesterfield County, South Carolina; married Elisha Poston.
 
Sarah Jane Davis Freeman is my 3rd Great Grand Aunt






 
________________________
1. 1810 U S Census, Chesterfield, Chesterfield, South Carolina, population schedule, Chesterfield, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, Page: 554; Line 22, Household of Thomas DAVIS, Household of Thomas DAVIS; digital images, Ancestry.com (http://www.ancestry.com : viewed 2 January 2012); citing National Archives Microfilm M252_60.
2. 1820 Census of the United States, Chesterfield, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, population schedule, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, Page: 123; Line 22, Thomas Davis Household; digital image, Ancestry.com (http://www.ancestry.com : viewed 4 July 2012); citing National Archives Microfilm M 33_119.
3. 1850 U. S. Census, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, population schedule, Chesterfield, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, Page: 134B/135A; Line 33, Dwelling 560, Family 560, Household of Jesse FREEMAN; digital images, Ancestry.com (http://www.ancestry.com : viewed 12 June 2012); citing National Archives Microfilm M432 Roll 851.
4. 1860 U. S. Census, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, population schedule, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, Page 173B; Line 27, Dwelling 1123, Family 1122, Household of Jesse FREEMAN; digital images, Ancestry.com (http://www.ancestry.com : viewed 2009); citing National Archives Microfilm M653_1217.
5. 1870 U. S. Census, Chesterfield, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, population schedule, Cole Hill Twsp., Chesterfield County, South Carolina, Page 283A, Line 1, Dwelling 100, Family 100, Household of Jesse FREEMAN; digital images, Ancestry.com (http://www.ancestry.com : viewed 12 June 2012); citing National Archives Microfilm M593_1491.
6. 1850 U. S. Census, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, Population Schedule, Chesterfield, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, Page: 134B/135A; Line 33, Dwelling 560, Family 560, Household of Jesse FREEMAN.
7. Ibid.
8. 1860 U. S. Census, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, Population Schedule, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, Page 173B; Line 27, Dwelling 1123, Family 1122, Household of Jesse FREEMAN.
9. 1870 U. S. Census, Chesterfield, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, Population Schedule, Cole Hill Twsp., Chesterfield County, South Carolina, Page 283A, Line 1, Dwelling 100, Family 100, Household of Jesse FREEMAN.
10. 1880 U S Census, Chesterfield, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, population schedule, Cole Hill, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, enumeration district (ED) 004, Page 303C, Line 40, Dwelling 72, Family 72, Household of Jesse FREEMAN; digital images, Ancestry.com (http://www.ancestry.com : viewed 12 June 2012); citing National Archives Microfilm T9-1225.
11. Old Darlington District Chapter S.C.G.S., "Anson County, NC – Darlington District, SC Connections;," Darlington Flag, Vol. XV, No. 3 (Summer 2003): pages 21-23.
12. Ibid.
13. Charles Freeman, "COMPLAINT FOR RELIEF," Chesterfield District Chronicle, Vol. 5, No. 1, Winter 2002, Newsletter , Chesterfield County Genealogical Society (https://www.facebook.com/groups/131108983604237/), Pages 21-23.
14. Chesterfield County, South Carolina, Probate Files & Loose papers, Jesse Freeman; digital images, Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, FamilySearch (http://www.familysearch.org: Viewed 4 July 2012); Probate File #320.
15. 1850 U. S. Census, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, Population Schedule, Chesterfield, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, Page: 134B/135A; Line 33, Dwelling 560, Family 560, Household of Jesse FREEMAN.
16. Ibid.
17. 1860 U. S. Census, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, Population Schedule, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, Page 173B; Line 27, Dwelling 1123, Family 1122, Household of Jesse FREEMAN.
18. Randolph W. Kirkland Jr., Broken Fortunes: South Carolina Soldiers, Sailors and Citizens Who Died in the Service of Their Country and State in the War for Southern Independence, 1861-1865 (Columbia, South Carolina: Univ of South Carolina, 1997), John F. FREEMAN, page 119.
19. Johnson Hagood, Memoirs of the War of Succession (Camden, SC 29020: Jim Fox Books, 1997 (Reprint)), John FREEMAN, page 403, 1st Column.
20. Kirkland, Broken Fortunes,John F. FREEMAN, page 119.

Tombstone Tuesday~Pvt. Thomas Franklin Davis

Pvt. Thomas Franklin Davis

b. Feb. 16, 1841

d. Feb. 14, 1915

Photo courtesy of Julious Burr

Thomas Franklin Davis, born 16 February 1841 was the son of Michel Davis and Hulda Rivers. ¹

When the Civil War started in January 1861 he was a 20 year old strapping young man, single, without a care in the world. 

On 20 December 1861, 4 days before Christmas, Thomas Franklin enlisted into Company “E”, 21st SC Infantry commanded by his 1st Cousin Capt. Benjamin Thomas Davis.² 

In Sept-Oct. 1863 through Jan.-Feb 1864, the muster roll showed that Thomas F. Davis was absent - sick at hospital. After release from the hospital his military records show that he was captured and taken prisoner near Petersburg, Virginia on 24 June 1864.³

He was transferred to Point Lookout, Maryland on June 26, 1864. He was paroled for exchange on at Elmira, NY on 2 March 1865. On March 10, 1865 he was received at Wayside Hospital, Richmond, Virginia. The War ended on April 9, 1865 when Gen Robert E. Lee surrendered to General Ulysses S. Grant.⁴

Thomas F. Davis survived the war and returned home to Chesterfield, South Carolina. Shortly after returning home he married Rosa Caroline Massey, daughter of  William Lawrence Massey and Huldah Meadows.
Thomas and Rosa would raise a large family of 14 children; 7 sons and 7 daughters.

Thomas Franklin Davis lost his beloved in July 1911. Thomas passed away on 14 February 1915, 2 days shy of his 74th birthday. They are buried at Zoar United Methodist Church Cemetery, Chesterfield, South Carolina. ^{5 6}

Pvt. Thomas Franklin Davis is my 2nd Great Grand Uncle.
_________________________
[1] Find A Grave, Inc., Find A Grave, database and digital images, (http://www.findagrave.com : accessed 29 August 2011); Memorial page for Pvt Thomas Franklin Davis; (16 February 1841–14 February 1915); Find a Grave memorial # 48051005, Citing Zoar United Methodist Church Cemetery; Brocks Mill, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, USA.
[2] http://www.fold3.com/image/20/85283257/
[3] http://www.fold3.com/image/20/85283286/
[4] http://www.fold3.com/image/20/85283293/
[5] Find A Grave, Inc., Find A Grave, database and digital images, (http://www.findagrave.com : accessed 29 August 2011); Memorial page for Rosa Caroline Davis; (24 March 1842–27 July 1911); Find a Grave memorial # 48051069, Citing Zoar United Methodist Church Cemetery; Brocks Mill, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, USA.
[6] Find A Grave, Inc., Find A Grave, database and digital images, (http://www.findagrave.com : accessed 29 August 2011); Memorial page for Pvt Thomas Franklin Davis; (16 February 1841–14 February 1915); Find a Grave memorial # 48051005, Citing Zoar United Methodist Church Cemetery; Brocks Mill, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, USA.

Mystery Monday~Ben and Caty Wright Brock, Revisited

There is no doubt that Catherine Wright, daughter of John Wright, Jr and Elizabeth Baker, married Benjamin Brock between 1792 and 1794.

Land deeds in Anson County, North Carolina tells the story; but, what it doesn't tell is what happen to Benjamin & Catherine Wright Brock.  

Deed Book “E”, page 109
2630 (94) Nov. 8, 1796 John Wright jr & wife Elizabeth (Anson Co) to John Auld esq. (same) for £0.10 (sic) sold 500 ac; border:begins at 2 white oaks & a  black gum marked with 12 notches each 3 against 3 and 3 against 3 on E side of Goulds fork of Brown Cr on the point of a hill; surveyed May 22, 1770 by Robert Jarman for William Thomas, son of Philemon, who sold to Aaron Baker and descended to his daughter Elizabeth. (signed) John Wright & Elizabeth’s mark “X”; witness W. W. Strain, John Hallaway, & William Johnson; wit. Oath April 1797 by William W. Strain; book E p. 109 [1]

Addition Info from Land Deed: Suit is depending in Equity in the superior Court of Fayetteville district between the said John & Elizabeth & Patrick Boggan for a part of the above granted lands now if the said John & Elizabeth Recover the said suit & land then the said John Auld is to have the said land…

Anson County Land Deed; Deed Book “E”, page 109
This transaction is proof that John Wright, Jr was married to Elizabeth Baker, daughter of Aaron Baker.

Deed Book “E”, page 229
Set over unto the said John Wright Jur. his heirs and assigns forever a Certain Tract or parcel of land in the County aforesaid on Huckleberry Creek being the Lands sold and Conveyed by John Wright Jur. By Deed dated the 20th day June 1789 to his Daughter Caty Wright now Caty Brock [Deed Book C2:378] Excepting a Piece Containing              acres sold by said Caty to Richard Edgeworth… [Deed Book C2:171].

John Wright, Jr states that he sold this piece of land to his daughter, Caty Wright, now Caty Brock, on 20 June 1789. [Deed Book C2:178]

Deed Book C2, page 170
This deed is dated 28 March 1792. Caty Wright (Anson Co0 is selling 40 acres of land to Richard Edgeworth (same)… 

Deed Book C2, page 239
Anson County Deed Book C2, Page 239 - Benjamin Brock to William Pegues. dates 18 January 1794 states “THIS INDENTURE made this Eighteenth day of January one thousand seven hundred and Ninety Four Between Benjamin Brock and Catherine his wife of Anson County in the state of North Carolina of the one part and William Peques of the County of Chesterfield in the state of South Carolina… 

Married Ben Brock between 28 Mar 1792 & 18 January 1794.
We can see that on 28 March 1792 Caty was single, going by the name Caty Wright [C2:170] and by 18 January 1794 she was married to Ben Brock and known as Caty Brock [C2:239].

Between 1801 and 1807 Ben/Benjamin Brock bought, sold or witnessed seven land transactions in Anson County.
Deed Book H2, Page 212 – 13 July 1801
Deed Book H2, Page 269 – 21 Nov 1801
Deed Book H2, Page 377 – 15 July 1801
Deed Book H2, Page 549 – 2 May 1801 (Grant# 1649)
Deed Book L, Page 11 – 8 March 1805
Deed Book M, Page 183 – 15 December 1807 (witness)
Deed Book M, Page 259 – 15 December 1807

Deed Book “W”, Page 147-148
The next Deed that I have is dated  12 December 1827 between Ben Brock to James Brock
Known all men by these presents that I Benjamin Brock of the state of South Carolina Chesterfield District for and in consideration of the sum of fifty cents have granted, bargained sold released unto James Brock of the state and district aforesaid and by these presents do grant, bargain sell and  release unto him the said James Brock a certain tract or parcel of land lying and being in the state of North Carolina Anson County on a branch of Westfield Creek containing four hundred acres more or less which I the sd Ben Brock purchased from Jane McIntire Ann McIntyre Duncan Nicholson and James Nicholson reference being had to the deed for a more particular description of said lands. To have and to hold unto the said James Brock his heirs Execrs, Adms and assigns to the sd bargained premises forever and I the sd Benjamin Brock for myself and my heirs exers Adms. and assigns the above named premises will forever warrant & defend. Now if I the above named Benjamin Brock my execs, Adms and assigns shall and do will & truly pay unto the sd James Brock his heirs execs adms and assigns the full & just sum of fifty dollars good and lawfull money on the first day of January 1832 with lawfull interest of the state of South Carolina for the same. Then this indenture to be void or else to remain in full force and virtue and lastly it is covenanted and agreed that the said Benjamin Brock shall remain in the possession of the above named premises and all the privileges thereof necessary to the enjoyment of the same and shall receive all the rents profits in the premises untill default be made in the proviso herein contained. In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this 12 day of December 1827.
                                                                                        Benjamin X Brock
Signed & sealed in presence}
of Eli P. Brock }    Anson Jany SC 1828
Squire Brock }    Then this Deed was proven in open Court by Eli P. Brock
Dun Nicholson}    and ordered to be registered.               
                            W. Dismukes Clk

Beyond what is documented here, nothing more is know of Catherine Wright and Benjamin Brock. Did they pass away? Did they move out of state. If you have information or suggestions about this couple I would love to hear from you.


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[1] [Abstracts of Deeds, Anson County, NC, Books D, C2, & E, by Dr. A. B. Pruitt, 2000, Page 68]
[2] All deeds cited are reference by book and page numbers and can be obtained from the Register of Deeds, Wadesboro, Anson County, North Carolina. Many of the deeds cited above can be viewed and accessed on-line at -- http://www.ansonncrod.org/> They can also be printed from this web site.

Sunday’s Obituary~Mrs. Mary J. Davis

Mrs. Mary J. Davis
Special to The State
Chesterfield, March 15 – Mrs. Mary J. Davis, mother of Mrs. J. H. Privette and Thomas Davis of the Friendship community died at Charlotte, N. C. on Tuesday and was buried the next day at Zoar church. Mrs. Davis was the widow of the late Elisha Davis and is survived by several children, who live in North Carolina.

Mary Jane “Molly” Eddins Davis is related by marriage to my 2nd Great Grand Uncle Elisha Blakely Davis.
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[1] Mrs. Mary J. Davis obituary, The State, Columbia, Richland County, South Carolina, 16 March 1916, Page 3, Col 4.

Surname Saturday~Davis-Rivers

 
Mary Eliza Davis was born on 23 Nov 1853 in Chesterfield, Chesterfield, South Carolina^{1–2 3 4 5 6 7} She was the daughter of Michael Davis and Hulda Rivers. 
 
Mary Eliza Davis married Doctor Wesley "Doctor W" Rivers about 1870 in Chesterfield County, South Carolina
 
Doctor Wesley "Doctor W" Rivers, son of John B. Rivers and Eliza Rivers, was born on 15 Jun 1847 in Chesterfield County, South Carolina. ^{8 9 10 11 12 13 14}
 
Doctor Wesley Rivers and Mary Eliza Davis had the following children:
i. Lugenia Rivers, born 3 Jun 1871, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, United States; married John William Sweat, 26 Dec 1891, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, United States; died 30 Jun 1955, Chesterfield, Chesterfield, South Carolina, United States.
ii. George Washington Rivers, born 24 Sep 1873, Chesterfield, Chesterfield, South Carolina, United States; married Julia Elizabeth Perkins, abt 1912, Chesterfield, Chesterfield, South Carolina, United States; died 3 Feb 1951, Chesterfield, Chesterfield, South Carolina, United States.
iii. James B. "Jim" Rivers, born 29 Nov 1875, Chesterfield, Chesterfield, South Carolina, United States; married Minnie B. White, 1904; died 1 Nov 1918, Chesterfield, Chesterfield, South Carolina, United States.
iv. Nancy Jane Rivers, born 9 May 1877, Chesterfield, Chesterfield, South Carolina, United States; married Elisha Theodore Davis, 1900, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, United States; died 26 Mar 1947, Chesterfield, Chesterfield, South Carolina, United States.
v. Lillie A. Rivers was born in Jun 1880 in Chesterfield, Chesterfield, South Carolina. She died on 15 Aug 1935 at the age of 55 in Florence, Florence, South Carolina. She was buried on 16 Aug 1935 in Chesterfield, Chesterfield, South Carolina.
vi. Albert Rivers was born in Jan 1883 in Chesterfield, Chesterfield, South Carolina. He appeared in the census in 1930 in Court House, Chesterfield, South Carolina. He died on 26 Jan 1953 at the age of 70 in Chesterfield, Chesterfield, South Carolina Albert was buried on 28 Jan 1953 in Chesterfield, Chesterfield, South Carolina. 
vii. William Alfred Rivers, born 25 Jan 1885, Chesterfield, Chesterfield, South Carolina, United States; married Nellie Olivia Campbell, 5 Oct 1904, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, United States; died 1 Apr 1951, Chesterfield, Chesterfield, South Carolina, United States.
viii. Charlie D. Rivers, born 23 Apr 1887, Chesterfield, Chesterfield, South Carolina, United States; married Laura Florence Teal, 26 Aug 1906, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, United States; died 17 Aug 1938, Chesterfield, Chesterfield, South Carolina, United States.
ix. Thomas L. Rivers was born on 11 Dec 1889 in Chesterfield, Chesterfield, South Carolina. He served in the military World War I Draft Registration Cards in 1917–1918. Thomas died on 23 Sep 1948 at the age of 58 in Chesterfield, Chesterfield, South Carolina. He was buried on 24 Sep 1948 at Zoar United Methodist Church Cemetery in Chesterfield, Chesterfield, South Carolina.
x. Mary E. Rivers was born on 3 Apr 1892 in Chesterfield County, South Carolina.
xi. Frederick "Bud" Rivers, born 23 Sep 1894, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, United States; married Mary Della Liles, abt 1914; died 14 May 1957, Bennettsville, Marlboro, South Carolina, United States.
xii. John Calvin Rivers, born 8 Mar 1897, Chesterfield, Chesterfield, South Carolina, United States; married Lera Hammond, 27 Dec 1922, Chesterfield, Chesterfield, South Carolina, United States; died 13 Mar 1971, Chesterfield, Chesterfield, South Carolina, United States.
 
Mary Eliza Davis Rivers died on 15 Apr 1917 at the age of 63 and was buried on 16 Apr 1917 in Chesterfield, Chesterfield, South Carolina^{15 16 17 18 19 20}
 
Doctor W. Rivers died on 2 Apr 1926 at the age of 78 and was buried on 3 Apr 1926 in Chesterfield, Chesterfield, South Carolina^{21 22 23}
 
Mary Eliza and Doctor W. are buried at Zoar United Methodist Church Cemetery, Chesterfield, South Carolina. 
 
Mary Eliza Davis Rivers is my 2nd Great Grand Aunt.



 
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1. Mauliza [Mary Eliza] Rivers, death certificate #6154 (15 April 1917), Vital Records, Department of Health, Austin, Travis County, Texas.
2. , Death certificate , Vital Records, Department of Health and Environmental Control, Columbia, Richland County, South Carolina.
3. 1860 U. S. Census, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, population schedule, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, Page 94, Line 1, Dwelling/Family 1/1, Household of Michael DAVIS; digital images, Ancestry.com (http://www.ancestry.com : viewed 26 August 2011); citing National Archives Microfilm M653_1217.
4. 1870 U. S. Census, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, population schedule, Court House, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, Page 306B, Line 35, Dwelling/Family #371/371, Household of M[ichael] DAVIS; digital images, Ancestry.com (http://www.ancestry.com : viewed 21 July 2011); citing National Archives Microfilm M593_1491.
5. 1880 U. S. Census, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, population schedule, Court House, Chesterfield, South Carolina, enumeration district (ED) #5, Page: 326B, Line 22, dwelling 287, family 287, Household of Doctor W. Rivers; digital images, Ancestry.com (http://www.ancestry.com : viewed 19 July 2011); citing National Archives Microfilm T9-1225.
6. 1900 U. S. Census, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, population schedule, Court House, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, enumeration district (ED) #21, Page 104A, Line 30, Dwelling/Family 366/373, Household of Dock W. RIVERS; digital images, Ancestry.com (http://ancestry.com : viewed 18 July 2011); citing National Archives Microfilm  T623_1523.
7. 1910 U. S. Census, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, population schedule, Court House, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, enumeration district (ED) #0037, Page: 135B; Line 53, dwelling 153, family 153, Household of Dock Rivers; digital images, Ancestry.com (http://ancestry.com : viewed 18 July 2011); citing National Archives Microfilm  T624_1455.
8. James C. Pigg, Chesterfield County Cemetery Survey; Chesterfield County Genealogical Services, 1995, page 831. Tombstone of D. W. RIVERS; 15 June 1847–2 April 1926, Zoar United Methodist Church Cemetery, Chesterfield County, South Carolina.
9. 1850 U. S. Census, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, population schedule, Chesterfield District, South Carolina, enumeration district (ED) No ED, page 128A; Line 33, dwelling 462; family 462, Household of John B. RIVERS; digital images, Ancestry.com (http://www.ancestry.com : accessed ); citing National Archives Microfilm M432 Roll 851.
10. 1860 U. S. Census, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, Population Schedule, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, ED No Ed, Page: 116; Line 15, dwelling 314, family 313, Household of Eliza RIVERS.
11. 1880 U. S. Census, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, Population Schedule, Court House, Chesterfield, South Carolina, ED #5, Page: 326B, Line 22, dwelling 287, family 287, Household of Doctor W. Rivers.
12. 1900 U. S. Census, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, population schedule, Court House, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, ED #21, Page 104A, Line 30, Dwelling/Family 366/373, Household of Dock W. RIVERS.
13. 1910 U. S. Census, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, population schedule, Court House, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, ED #0037, Page: 135B; Line 53, dwelling 153, family 153, Household of Dock Rivers.
14. 1920 U. S. Census, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, population schedule, Court House, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, enumeration district (ED) #40, Page: 166A & 166B, Line 49,, dwelling 171, family 179, Household of D. W. RIVERS; digital images, Ancestry.com (http://ancestry.com : viewed 19 July 2011); citing National Archives Microfilm T625_1690.
15. M. [Mary Eliza] RIVERS, Chesterfield, South Carolina death certificate 006154 (15 April 1917).
16. Mauliza [Mary Eliza] Rivers, Chesterfield County, South Carolina death certificate #6154 (15 April 1917).
17. James C. Pigg, Obituaries from the Chesterfield Advertiser 1892-1926; Chesterfield County Genealogical Services, 2001, page. Tombstone of Mrs. D. W. Rivers; 23 November 1853–15 April 1917, Zoar United Methodist Church Cemetery, Chesterfield County, South Carolina.
18. Mrs. D. W. RIVERS obituary, The State, Columbia, Richland County, South Carolina, 21 April 1917, Page 3, col. 3.
19. 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).
20. Find A Grave, Inc., Find A Grave, database and digital images, (http://www.findagrave.com : accessed 29 June 2013); Memorial page for Mary Eliza Davis Rivers; (23 November 1853–16 April 1917); Find a Grave memorial # 83051432, Citing Zoar United Methodist Church Cemetery; Brocks Mill, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, USA.
21. Dock Wesley Rivers, Chesterfield County, South Carolina death certificate #6311 (2 April 1926).
22. James C. Pigg, Chesterfield County Cemetery Survey, Chesterfield County Genealogical Services, 1995. Tombstone of D. W. RIVERS.
23. Find A Grave, Inc., Find A Grave, database, "Record, Doctor Wesley "Dock" Rivers (15 June 1847–2 April 1926),

52 Ancestors: #29, Grandma Pearly

 

Amy Johnson Crow of No Story To Small has started a challenge of 52 Ancestors in 52 Weeks.
From her blog “The challenge: have one blog post each week devoted to a specific ancestor. It could be a story, a biography, a photograph, an outline of a research problem — anything that focuses on one ancestor. Not only should this get me blogging more, but also to take a deeper look at some of the people in my family tree.”

The focus of My blog posting today is my paternal Grandmother Lucy Pearl “Pearly” Deese Purvis



Lucy Pearl Deese was the first born child of John Calvin Deese and Louvena Huneycutt. John Calvin and Louvena were married on 9 April 1884. Lucy Pearl was born 17 January 1885, 9 months and 8 days later. She was the first of 4 children, all girls, born to John Calvin and Louvena. Louvena and the last born child, a daughter also called Louvena perished due to complications related to childbirth.

This left John Calvin, a farmer, in a major predicament. Three young daughters to raise and the demands of being a farmer. Needless to say John Calvin went looking for another wife marrying Sarah Frances Gathings on 4 February 1892. This marriage took place just a little over two years after the passing of his first wife and baby daughter on 18 October 1889.

John Calvin and Sarah Frances would also have three daughter. No sons were born to either of these unions.

John Calvin wrote his Will on 14 March 1908. Within the Will, item 5 relates to his daughter Lucy Pearl Purvis; so we know that Lucy Pearl was married prior to 14 March 1908. No marriage license has been found.

Lucy married James Francis “Jim” Purvis, son of William James Purvis and Mary Hulda Previtte. James Francis was born 7 November 1885, Together Lucy and Jim would have 7 children,  3 boys and 4 girls. Their first born, a daughter, died at birth. The remaining children lived to adulthood.  Grandpa Jim died on 21 February 1936 leaving Grandma a widower with six children to raise. Grandma would remain a widow for the next 34 years until her death on 23 April 1970.

Grandma Pearly was the only one of my grandparents that I knew as a child growing up. We saw her quite often and were delighted to be with her. She was small in statue with a big heart and was a great cook. She worked with us in the fields and cooked after a full days work. The last 10 years of her life I was away from home serving in the Air Force, only seeing her occasionally while home on leave. She was a wonderful person and continues to be missed by those who shared their lives with her here on earth.


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