It’s Family Time~The Short-Lived Life of a Second Cousin

Childbirth today is a common everyday occurrence but back in the mid-1800 that was not the case. The mothers of those days risked their lives to have babies and many of them lost their life. Statistics show that in the 1880’s the mortality rate for pregnant women was one in every eight women 

Medicine was sadly lacking, there was no anesthesia thus opuim was mainly used to reduced the pain. Common thought was that women must suffer the pain of childbirth.

Mid-wives instead of Doctors cared for most of the women, in their home, in conditions very undesirable for childbirth.

Such was likely the case with Sophia Miller Furr.

Sophia Miller was born in 1822 to George Jacob Miller, Jr. and his wife Catherine “Katy” Dry. She was their “middle child and only daughter” between an older and younger brother. At age 19, on 20 April 1841, Sophia Miller married Solomon Furr. 

Their first and only child, a son, Franklin Henry Furr was born 21 Jan 1842. While I don't have a death date, we know that Sophia died at or shortly after the birth of her son Franklin Henry Furr. Franklin Henry Furr survived, married, and raised a large family passing away on 19 December 1911 in Polk County, Arkansas.

In 1844, Solomon Furr, widow, remarried. He took as his wife a young lady, age 17, by the name of Avaline Brown. To this union were born 2 daughters. Avaline Brown Furr was last enumerated in the 1860 census dying sometime between 1860 and 1870. Dr. Solomon Furr remained single after her death until 3 March 1894 at the age of 71 he married Mrs. Martha Jane Cox Scott.

Dr. Solomon Furr died 27 August 1895.

Death of Dr. S. Furr.
Dr. Solomon Furr, a well known citizen of No. 9, died last Tuesday morning at 10 o'clock from a stroke of paralysis which he received last Friday. He told his wife he felt sleepy, when she told him to stir about. He went out to the barn, and while there was stricken. He lingered until Tuesday when he died. Dr. Furr leaves a wife and three children, two sons and one daughter, Mrs. S. C. Bost The two sons are out west. Dr. Furr was about 75 years old. The remains were interred in the Furr burying ground.
[The Concord Times, Concord, North Carolina, 29 Aug 1895, Thu., Page 3, Column 2.]

Sophia Miller Furr is my 2nd Cousin 4 times removed.

________________________________

1. "North Carolina, Marriages Index, 1741-1868," database, Ancestry (http://www.ancestry.com: viewed 10 August 2020), Marriage: Solomon FURR and Sophia Miller, Bond Date: 20 Apr 1841.

2. Find A Grave, Inc., Find A Grave, database and digital images, (http://www.findagrave.com: accessed  10 August 2020); Memorial page for Lieut Solomon Furr; (29 May 1822-27b Aug 1895); Find a Grave memorial # 18373237, Citing Furr Family Cemetery; Mount Pleasant, Cabarrus County, North Carolina, USA.

3. 1850 U. S. Census, Cabarrus County, North Carolina, population schedule, Cabarrus, North Carolina, Page: 474A (Stamped); Line 26,, Dwelling 1107, Family 1107, Household of Solomon FURR; online database, Ancestry.com (http://www.ancestry.com: viewed 10 August 2020); citing National Archives Microfilm Publication M432, Roll 622.

4. 1860 U. S. Census, Cabarrus County, North Carolina, population schedule, Subdivision East of NC RR, Cabarrus, North Carolina, Page: 92 (stamped); Line 7, Dwelling 956, Family 956, Household of Solomon FURR; online database, Ancestry.com (http://www.ancestry.com: viewed 10 August 2020); citing National Archives Microfilm Publication M653, Roll 890.

5. Solomon Furr, compiled military record (2nd Lt., Company B, North Carolina 7th Infantry Regiment), U.S. Civil War Soldier Records and Profiles, U.S. Civil War Soldiers, 1861-1865 (Provo, Utah: www.ancestry.com), N/A.

6. 1870 Census, Cabarrus County, North Carolina, population schedule, Township 9, Cabarrus, North Carolina, Page: 545A (stamped); Line 32, Dwelling 50, Family 57, Household of Solomon FURR; online database, Ancestry.com (http://www.ancestry.com: viewed 10 August 2020); citing National Archives Microfilm Publication M593, Roll 1126.

7. "Death of Dr. S. FURR," Obituary, [The Concord Times, Concord, North Carolina, 29 August 1895, Page 3, Column 2; Digital On-Line Archives, Newspapers.com (https://www.newspapers.com/: viewed 29 August 2020).

Last Will and Testament of James D. Liles

In today’s post, we will look at the Last Will and Testament of James D. Liles.

James D. Liles married Susan Brownfield Davis, daughter of Joseph B. Davis and Anne Keene, about 1838 or 1839. I haven’t yet found a marriage announcement or licensee. They had two children; a son and a daughter named within the Will posted below.  I haven’t found a death date for the son, Joseph, but it obvious that he was deceased before 1890 as he is not mentioned in the Will.

Mr. James. D. Liles died Monday. He was one of our oldest and best men. [Died 29 May 1893]

Susan Brownfield Davis Liles, the wife of James D. Liles, passed away before the Will was written and no death date has been found. 

Their daughter, Mary Thomas Liles married Hugh Giles Fladger, date unknown. 

 

Last Will and Testament of James D. Liles.

Transcription: 

I James D. Liles of Anson County North Carolina do make & Publish and declare this to be my last will and Testament.

Item: I give, devise and bequeath my entire estate and property of every description - real, personal and mixed to my daughter Mary T. Fladger to her and her heirs forever.

I nominate and appoint my daughter Mary T. Fladger to be executrix of this Last Will and Testament. In witness whereof I hereunto set my hand and Seal February 24th 1890.
                                                                                   James D. Liles {Seal}
In presence of the
witness underneath
this---
J. W. McGregor
R. T. Bennett

State of North Carolina}   Superior Court
Anson County} Office of the Clerk thereof   
The foregoing paper writing purporting to be the last will and testament of the late James D. Liles of said County is this day propounded for probate in our said Superior Court by Mrs. Mary T. Fladger, the person named therein as executrix, and the due execution thereof is proven by the oath and examination of John W. McGregor and Risden T. Bennett, the subscribing witnesses thereto, who being severally duly sworn according to law, do depose and say  and each for himself deposeth and saith, that at the date therein Named, the said James D. Liles 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 that thereupon these witnesses signed their names thereto as witnesses, in the presence of the testator  and at his request, and that at the time of the execution thereof as aforesaid by the testator, and the attestation thereof thereof as aforesaid by the witnesses the said James D. Liles, was of Sound mind and memory, of full age to execute a will, and was not under restraint to the knowledge or belief of these affiants. Therefore let said paper writing be admitted to probate and recorded as the last will and testament of the said James D. Liles deceased. Done at office in Wadesborough, this the 3rd day of July A.D. 1893, when and where the said Mary T. Fladger qualified as executrix and letters of Testamentary issued to her.
                             John C. McLanchlin,
                             Clerk of Superior Court

  

Susan Brownfield Davis, wife of James D. Liles, is my 2nd Cousin 5 times removed. 

________________________

.[1] https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/3:1:939L-JGD7-V?i=212&wc=32LV-SPD%3A169763901%2C169851601&cc=1867501

[2] James D. LILES (1890), WILL BOOK: WILL BOOK "D"; pages 333 & 334; Probate Office, Wadesboro, Anson County, North Carolina.

[3] Obituary, The Messenger and Intelligencer, Wadesboro, Anson County, North Carolina, United States, 1 June 1893, Page 3, col 3. [Died 29 May 1893].

Did Joseph B. Davis Marry Aley Whaley or Was She his Mistress

Lt. Joseph B. Davis, born abt 1755 was the son of Benjamin Davis, Sr. and Rachel Port. Joseph served in the Revolutionary War and shortly after the war married Anne Keene about 1783.

During the next twenty-five years Joseph and Anne would grow their family to 11 children; 6 daughters and 5 sons.  Anne Keen e Davis is believed to have died about 1811 shortly after the birth of her last child, a daughter named Sarah Brownfield Davis, born in 1808/1809.

Some say that Joseph B. Davis then married Aley Whaley but no marriage notice, licensee, or document of any sort has been found that would legitimize the marriage between Lt. Joseph B. Davis and Aley Whaley.

The death of Anne Keene Davis left her husband Joseph, a prospers Planter in the Marion District in a very precarious predicament. In 1811, six of the eleven children were still under the age of 21 ranging in age from 2 to 19 years of age. He definitely needs someone to care for his younger children.

Aley Whaley may have served in that position but available records clearly show that Joseph B. Davis though he may have produced two children with Aley Whaley they were never married. 

Joseph wrote and dated his Will, 12 February 1828. Before his death, Joseph did add an ITEM to his Will naming the two daughters, Mary and Elizabeth, of Aley Whaley.

Item. I give devise and bequeath unto Mary & Elizabeth the daughters of Aley Whaley One negro girl each, to be purchased by my Sons herein before mentioned the property of my Sons herein before mentioned to be fubject to the purchase and payment of the faid Legacies - the faid negroes to be of or near the age of the faid Mary & Elizabeth Severally viz the one to Mary to be of or about her age and the one to Elizabeth to be of or about her age, to them and their heirs & afsigns forever, Severally—.

Also, before his death, Joseph left Deeds of Gift to his five daughters by his wife Anne Keene. Those five daughters were Mary Christiana Thomas, Ann Marie Fladgar, Eliza Bagby Johnson, Rachel Port Newsom, and Susan Brownfield Davis.

Reading his WILL it clear that he left a legacy to these two girls but at no time did he refer to the two girls as his daughters. The WILL says “I give devise and bequeath unto Mary & Elizabeth the daughters of Aley Whaley”

Probate Folder #218A and his Revolutionary War Files remind us that Joseph died 13 November 1838 leaving NO WIDOW.

Transcription:

The State of South Carolina}  On the twenty-ninth
                   Marion District}  day of September A. D.
Eighteen hundred and fifty-one, Daniel H. Davis personally appeared before me and after being duly Sworn, deposeth and Saith, that his Father Joseph Davis, late of this District, died on the 13th day of November 1838, leaving no widow Surviving him, but leaving the following children to wit, this deponent [Daniel H. Davis], Maria Fladgar, William Davis, Joseph Davis, Mary Thomas & Susan B. Lyles~That his said Father resided in this District, at the time of his death, that himself this deponent, and Maria Fladgar are now residents of said District; Mary Thomas, resided on Marlborough District, and William Davis, Joseph Davis & S. B. Lyles out of the State.
                                                                               s/ Daniel H. Davis
Sworn and Subscribed before me}
the day above written}
Edward B. Wheeler}
Ordinary}

A document from Probate Folder #218 relates to a suit brought by John C. William on behalf of his wife Mary Whaley, daughter of Aley Whaley, against the estate of Lt. Joseph B. Davis.

In that document dated 19 Feb. 1838 two distinct comments bears on this Case

1. Mary Whaley daughter of Aley Whaley is now the lawfull wife of Said Williams. Evidence of that fact will be obtained before the day of trial.  She is said to be the Bastard daughter of said  Joseph Davis, but never sworn to him.

2. Aley Whaley is still living in this District, but could soon be in North Carolina if necefsary ~

These two statements clearly show that Joseph and Aley were never married and that she was still alive and well on 19 Feb. 1838.

Transcription: 

The State of South Carolina} to [whom it] 

Marion District} may concern, Know 

Williams of Brunswick County and

have nominated, made ordained

these presents, do nominate

John H. Whaley  of the 

my certain and lawful

on Said Whaley all the

and pofsefs to Sue and preset any suit or suits

which he may think proper in any of the Courts of

the first mentioned State for the recovery of part or 

all of the property or money which illegible is or may

be due my wife Mary Williams from the executors

or the estate of Joseph Davis deceased late of the 

first mentioned state and district, and to be secure

either with or without Suit at his own discretion

all property or money bequeathed my wife Mary

William by the last Will and Testament of the said

Joseph Davis, And I do hereby authorize and

empower Said Whaley to enter into any bond, agreement,

or deed and sign any receipt which he may think

necessary for the final adjustment and settlement of the 

above mentioned businefs, and all such bond,  

agreement and or receipt so entered into or signed shall be 

forever afterward deemed and held valid as my own 

voluntary and personal act. Given under my hand 

and Seal this twelfth day of Feb., A. D. one thousand eight

hundred and thirty eight, and in the Sixty Second year

of the Sovereignty and Independence  of the United

States of America. Signed, sealed and delivered in 

presences of Witnefs

Test

William Evans

Levi Legett (Signed)                      John C. Williams {Seal}

I do certify the above to be a true Copy
of the Original Feb. 19th 1838.
             Levi Legett

*************************************************************

Transcription:

                                      Ctn House, S.C. Feb.19, 1838

                         enclosed you will find
                         Will. and on the
                         of a power of
Attorney you                                              to John H. Whaley,
Mary Whaley daughter of Aley Whaley is now
the lawfull wife of Said Williams. Evidence of
that fact will be obtain before the day of trial
She is said to be the Bastard daughter of said
Joseph Davis, but b]never sworn to him. Aley Whaley
is still living in this District, but could soon be
in North Carolina if necefsary ~ These children
named in the Will i. e., Mary & Elizabeth don't
claim under said Will one tenth of the old man's
property if advances to his lawful children be
included ~ So no danger of the Act of 1794.--
John H. Whaley is Solvent as well as honest,
And further, when we see you we will
give you our joint note for your resonable
fees - We want an action brought forth with
for Mary Whaley now Mary Williams-- i. e. for
the Legacy Bequeathed her in the aforesaid
Will - We confidenly hope you will not fail to
Sue to the illegible Court-- as we are anxious
to collect as quick as pofsible - William has
received $125. by the hand Capt. H. G. Fladger
and given a receipt "in part payment of two
negroes". I doubt whether illegible is legal, but
  we want nothing illegible. I remiber <sic> nothing else 
which would be likely to have a bearing on
the case. Please address your letters to me
at this place -- I shall expect to hear from
you on the first Monday in next month. Please
stop every Whole Do that these executors gentry
may nor escape the hand of Justice. Your Sincerely
Mefsrs M. C. Quin}        Levi Legett
and Graham }

There is no evidence available that shows that Joseph B. Davis married Aley Whaley. A plethora of evidence exits showing that he died leaving no Widow; that Aley Whaley was at all times referred to as Aley Whaley and at no time as Aley Davis. That the father of her children was a never proven; but, said to be children of Joseph Davis. 

There’s are inconsistencies within these legal documents and I haven’t sorted them all out yet but will continue to collect data to resolve them. One is when did Joseph B. Davis die? Two records show him dying in November 1838 yet documents within this post suggests he died before that date.

Lt. Joseph B. Davis, my 1st Cousin 5 times removed.

___________________________________

[1] Marion County, SC Probate Roll 218, Joseph Davis
Courtesy of the Marion Archives, Marion, SC

[2] Marion County, SC Probate Roll 218A, Joseph Davis
Courtesy of the Marion Archives, Marion, SC

[3] https://www.fold3.com/image/246/13765834 and https://revwarapps.org/s10534.pdf

[4] Find A Grave, Inc., Find A Grave, database and digital images, (http://www.findagrave.com : accessed 19 August 2020); Memorial page for Lieut Joseph Davis; (1760–13 November 1838); Find a Grave memorial # 88467902, Citing Benjamin Davis Cemetery; Davis Landing, Marion County, South Carolina, USA.

[5] https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/3:1:3Q9M-C9PT-29ZC-1?cat=391278

_____________________________________

Some Marriages Recorded in the Marion County, SC Minute Book and Journal, 1800-1825

During this past week, I have done a page by page search of the  only existing Minute book and journal, 1800-1825 for Marion County, South Carolina. The book consists of 157 images including title pages and can be found here:

https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/3:1:939L-V999-56?wc=M6NW-96D%3A210902901%2C210902902&cc=1919417

It can also be found in the LDS Family History catalog as Film #1028915

During my review of this film, I came across several marriages which I found unusual. They were only recorded for a brief period of time but my list may not be complete. I may have missed some because I wasn’t looking for marriages. I was looking for specific surnames.

Marriages Recorded in the Marion County, SC Minute Book, and Journal, 1800-1825

Image 11 of 157
Jany 1st 1803
This day Granted Licenses directed to the Rev. Mr. James Hall to Join together in hold State of Matrimony Samuel Hall of the State of North Carolina of the One part and Margaret Geoff of Jefferies Creek of the other part Spinster.

https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/3:1:939L-V999-KZ?i=10&wc=M6NW-96D%3A210902901%2C210902902&cc=1919417

Image 22 of 157
31 May 1805
Licensed the Rev. Mr. Duncan Brown~ to Join together in the Holy State of Matrimony James Ervin Esquire Attorney at law of the one part and Eliza M. Witherspoon of the other part.

https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/3:1:939L-V99S-NY?i=21&wc=M6NW-96D%3A210902901%2C210902902&cc=1919417

Image 23 of 157
12 Nov 1805
This day Granted License Directed to Rev. Mr. Thomas Humphries to join together in the Holy State of Matrimony Francis Allison of this State and District of the one part and Mary Ann Graves of the other part.

https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/3:1:939L-V999-F3?i=22&wc=M6NW-96D%3A210902901%2C210902902&cc=1919417

Image 24 of 157
27 Feby 1806
Licensed the Reverend Mr. john Wood to Join together in the Holy State of Matrimony Captain John McRae (or maybe McRee) of the one part and Mary Johnston Spinster of the other part.

https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/3:1:939L-V99S-LG?i=23&wc=M6NW-96D%3A210902901%2C210902902&cc=1919417

Image 25 of 157
6 May 1806
This day granted a Licensee to the Rev'd. ______________ to Join together in the Holy State of Matrimony Wm. H. Grice & Mary Foxworth Spinster~

https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/3:1:939L-V999-B1?i=24&wc=M6NW-96D%3A210902901%2C210902902&cc=1919417

When Did Lt. Joseph B. Davis Die?

I am constantly looking, exploring,   and searching for new data, information, and sources related to my relatives.

A few weeks ago I came across two new pieces of information that conflicted with each other. The data concerned the death date of Lt. Joseph B. Davis, my 1st Cousin 5 times removed.

Joseph B. Davis, son of Benjamin Davis, Sr. and his wife Rachel Port served in the Revolutionary War. In his Revolutionary War record (found on Fold3.com) we find the following data. {1}

Transcription:

“Joseph Davis, William Davis, Maria Fladger, Mary Thomas, & Susan B. Lyles, only surviving children of Joseph Davis, a private and Sergeant of infantry and Lieutenant of Cavalry, in the war of the Revolution. That the said Joseph Davis, died in the District of Marion, on the 13th day of November 1838, leaving no widow but the aforesaid children, to wit Joseph Davis, William Davis, Maria Fladger, Mary Thomas & Susan B. Lyles, and this affiant, that Joseph Davis entered the American ...”

It’s clear that his Revolutionary War Records show that Lt. Joseph B. Davis died on 13 November 1838.

But, there is conflicting data also. First, is a FindAGrave Memorial. My mantra here is “don’t believe it unless there is a tombstone”. In this case, there is no Tombstone but there is a Memorial. {2}

Find A Grave Memorial#88467902

Also posted on this FindAGrave memorial is an Obituary for Joseph Davis but it is not sourced. So we have no way of determining which paper published the Obituary or the date the obituary was published.  

On the wonderful website of Marty & Karla Grant there is an extract posting for PROBATE ROLL #218 - Joseph Davis, Sr. 1833 that seem to indicate that Joseph Davis, Sr. died before 14 November 1833.^{3}

“!PROBATE ROLL #218 Joseph Davis Senr 1833
Will dated 12 Feb 1828 proven 14 Nov 1833
Dau Susan Davis
Son Daniel H. Davis
Benjamin S. Davis
Abraham G. Davis
Joseph J. Davis
Mary and Elizabeth daughters of Aley Whaley ...
Execs my sons Abraham G. Davis, Daniel H. Davis and Benjamin S. Davis
Wit: John Gibson, James R. Ervin, Jordan Gibson.
John H. Whaley in right of his wife Mary dau of Aley Whale wife of John Williams [makes no sense!]”

With this seemly conflicting information, I had to know when and where Joseph B. Davis died. The Probate documents I requested from the Marion Archives arrived today (19 August 2020).  One document from Probate Folder 218A has been transcribed below.  It’s clear to me that Joseph B. Davis died on 13 November 1838 and his second wife Aley Whaley Davis died before this date leaving one child a daughter Mary Whaley Williams said to be the daughter of Lt. Joseph B. Davis. ^{4}

Transcription:

The State of South Carolina}  On the twenty-ninth
                   Marion District}  day of September A. D.
Eighteen hundred and fifty-one, Daniel H. Davis personally appeared before me and after being duly Sworn, deposeth and Saith, that his Father Joseph Davis, late of this District, died on the 13th day of November 1838, leaving no widow Surviving him, but leaving the following children to wit, this deponent [Daniel H. Davis], Maria Fladgar, William Davis, Joseph Davis, Mary Thomas & Susan B. Lyles~That his said Father resided in this District, at the time of his death, that himself this deponent, and Maria Fladgar are now residents of said District; Mary Thomas, resided on Marlborough District, and William Davis, Joseph Davis & S. B. Lyles out of the State.
                                                                               s/ Daniel H. Davis
  
Sworn and Subscribed before me}
the day above written}
Edward B. Wheeler}
Ordinary}

Lt. Joseph B. Davis, my 1st Cousin 5 times removed.

________________
{1} https://www.fold3.com/image/246/13765834 and https://revwarapps.org/s10534.pdf

{2} Find A Grave, Inc., Find A Grave, database and digital images, (http://www.findagrave.com : accessed 19 August 2020); Memorial page for Lieut Joseph Davis; (1760–13 November 1838); Find a Grave memorial # 88467902, Citing Benjamin Davis Cemetery; Davis Landing, Marion County, South Carolina, USA.

{3} http://www.martygrant.com/genealogy/familydata/grpf16506.html

{4} Marion County, SC Probate Roll 218A, Joseph Davis
Courtesy of the Marion Archives, Marion, SC

Who Are The Parents of Mattie Campbell Davis?

Recently, I had someone ask for help on Mattie Campbell and was at a loss for only very limited information. Mattie’s tombstone in the Campbell Family Cemetery, Chesterfield, SC says she was born 15 May 1882 and her SC Death certificate and obituary says she died 16 October 1955.

The only clue to who her parents might be was found on her SC Death Certificate which says her parents were John Campbell and Mary Watson. Unfortunately, I have been unable to find a John Campbell/Mary Watson family in the Census.

Mattie Campbell married Benjamin Franklin “Bennie” Davis on 30 December 1902. She and Bennie Davis are enumerated in the following censuses for Chesterfield County, SC – 1910, 1920, 1930 and 1940

Another clue in her identity is the 1900 Censuses. While she (Mattie) is not listed with her parents she does seem to be listed with several brothers and sisters.

Most online trees have her parents listed as John Campbell and Mary Watson while there are others that are definitely without a clue. Of the six Campbell listed above in the 1900 Census, Mattie is the only one that I have found any information regarding their lives. Are the two girls and 3 boys Mattie’s siblings and if they are what happen to them after the 1900 Census?

Mattie and Bennie Davis had 7 children; five lived to adulthood, one son and daughter died young.

Benjamin Franklin Davis and Mattie Campbell had the following children:

        i.    Mims Sullivan Davis, born 9 Nov 1904, Chesterfield, Chesterfield, South Carolina; married Lexie Jane Rivers, 11 Nov 1922, Chesterfield, Chesterfield, South Carolina; died 4 Oct 1970, Chesterfield, Chesterfield, South Carolina.
         ii.    Eva Davis was born on 25 Nov 1906 in Chesterfield, Chesterfield, South Carolina. She died on 5 Oct 2001 at the age of 94 at Hospice House Woodside, Pinellas Park. in Pinellas Park, Florida.
         iii.    Mattie Davis was born about 1908 in Chesterfield, Chesterfield, South Carolina. Believed to have died young.
         iv.    Lawton Davis was born on 4 Jul 1909 in Chesterfield, Chesterfield, South Carolina. He died on 12 May 1911 at the age of 1 in Chesterfield, Chesterfield, South Carolina,

BIRTH-DEATH-BURIAL: Tombstone, Campbell Family Cemetery as recorded in "Chesterfield County, South Carolina Cemetery Survey", Supplement, Page 22, By James C. Pigg, Published by Chesterfield County Genealogical Services, Copyright 1995.

        v.    Thomas Teal Davis, born 6 May 1912, Chesterfield, Chesterfield, South Carolina; died 25 Aug 1987, Chesterfield, Chesterfield, South Carolina.
         vi.    Robert Edward Davis, born 25 Sep 1916, Chesterfield, Chesterfield, South Carolina; married Adeline Emma  Ristow; died 9 May 2014, Huntsville, Madison, Alabama.
         vii.    Maude Garland Davis, born 27 Nov 1921, Chesterfield, Chesterfield, South Carolina; married Walker Farris Johnson; died 30 May 2009, Rockingham Richmond, North Carolina.

If you can help with the identity of Mattie Campbell's parents please contact me. There is an e-mail link in the right column of this page.  

Benjamin Franklin Davis is my 2nd Cousin 3 times removed.

________________________

    1. 1910 U. S. Census, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, population schedule, Court House, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, enumeration district (ED) 0037, page 24B/159B(stamped), Line 92 Dwelling 426, Family 416, Household of Ben DAVIS; digital images, Ancestry.com (http://ancestry.com : viewed 15 September 2012); citing National Archives Microfilm T624_1455.
     2. "World War I Draft Registration Cards, 1917-1918," on-line digital images, Ancestry.com (http://www.ancestry.com : viewed 15 September 2012), Benjamin Franklin Davis; citing Selective Service System. World War I Selective Service System Draft Registration Cards, 1917-1918. Washington, D.C.: National Archives and Records Administration. M1509, 4,582 rolls, FHL Roll Number: 1852503; Birth Date: 1884.
     3. 1920 U. S. Census, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, population schedule, Court House, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, enumeration district (ED) 39, Page: 21B/146B (stamped); Line 86, Dwelling 272, Family 281, Household of Binnie F. DAVIS; digital images, Ancestry.com (http://ancestry.com : viewed 15 September 2012); citing National Archives Microfilm T625_1690.
     4. 1930 U. S. Census, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, population schedule, Chesterfield, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, enumeration district (ED) 14, Page 8A/8A(stamped); Line 42, Dwelling 153, Family 173, Household of Benjamin F. DAVIS; digital images, Ancestry.com (http://ancestry.com : viewed 15 September 2012); citing National Archives Microfilm T626_2192.

    5.1940 U. S. Census, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, population schedule, Chesterfield, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, enumeration district (ED) 13-15, Page 8B/210B(stamped); Line 73, Household #143, Household of Benjamin DAVIS; digital images, 1940 CENSUS (http://1940census.archives.gov : viewed 3 May 2018); citing NARA microfilm publication T627, roll 3799.
     6. Find A Grave, Inc., Find A Grave, database and digital images, (http://www.findagrave.com : accessed  15 September 2012); Memorial page for Benjamin Franklin Davis; (25 December 1881–23 November 1947); Find a Grave memorial # 39792382, Citing Campbell Family Cemetery; Chesterfield, Chesterfield County, South Carolina.
     7. Obituary: BENJ. T. DAVIS obituary, The State, Columbia, Richland County, South Carolina, 26 November 1947, Page 9B, Column 7. Died: 23 November 1947.
     8. Find A Grave, Inc., Find A Grave, database, "Record, Mattie Campbell Davis (15 May 1882–16 October 1955), Memorial # 39792313.
     9. Mattie Campbell Davis, death certificate 012892 (16 October 1955), Vital Records, Department of Health and Environmental Control, Columbia, Richland County, South Carolina.
     10. Find A Grave, Inc., Find A Grave, database, "Record, Mattie Campbell Davis (15 May 1882–16 October 1955), Memorial # 39792313.
     11. Obituary for Mrs. B. F. Davis, 73, of Cheraw, The State, 20 October 1955.

The Family of John White Thurman and Sarah E. Rivers

In the 1900 census, Sarah Thurman's birth is recorded as May 1830. Sarah A. or E. Rivers was born about 1830 in De Kalb County, Georgia. Three years earlier an older sister Mary Alice Rivers was born in Chesterfield County, South Carolina. Sarah Rivers and Mary Alice Rivers were two of ten children born to Dempsey Rivers and Nancy McDuffie.

Her father, Dempsey Rivers was born 13 December 1797 in Chesterfield, South Carolina. Dempsey is said to be the son of a William Rivers of Chesterfield according to an article in "CHATTOOGA: The Story of a County and Its People", pages 1120-1123, by Robert S. Baker.

Dempsey Rivers and Nancy McDuffie married about 1818 and had 4 children before moving to Georgia between 1826 and 1828. After their arrival in Georgia they had 6 additional children of which Sarah E. Rivers was their sixth child; 1 son and 5 daughters at this point in their marriage.

Sarah Rivers married John White Thurman on 7 February 1842 in De Kalb County, Georgia. The marriage licensee recorded her surname erroneously as Sarah Mcduffie. John White Thurman was born 10 Nov 1819 in Chesterfield County, SC, a son of William Lawrence Thurman and Elizabeth White.

Transcription:

Georgia} To any Minister of the Gospel,
De Kalb County} Judge, Justice of the Inferior Court or Justice of the Peace; You are hereby authorized to Join John W. Thurman and Sarah McDuffie in the holy state of matrimony according to the constitution and laws of this state, and for so doing this shall be your sufficient licensee. Given under my hand and seal this 7th day of Febary 1842.
                                                                     S. Farmer C. C. O. {L. S.}

Georgia} I do certify that John W. Thurmond
De Kalb County} and Sarah McDuffe  markthru Text were duly
joined in matrimony by me, the seventh day of February 1842.
                                                                    T. L. Thomas, J. P.

John White Thurman and Sarah Rivers had the following children:

i. Mary E. Thurman was born about 1843 in Dekalb County, Georgia.

ii. James Monroe Thurman, born abt 1845, Dekalb County, Georgia; married Ella.

iii. Eliza Jane Thurman, born 13 Mar 1848, Fulton County, Georgia; married John Wesley Rivers, 1866, GA; died 16 Aug 1922, Summerville, Chattooga, Georgia.

iv. Martha A. Thurman was born about 1851 in Dekalb County, Georgia.

v. Josephine A. Thurman was born about 1855 in Dekalb County, Georgia.

vi. Laura C. Thurman was born about 1859 in Dekalb County, Georgia.

vii. Coleman B. Thurman was born about 1861 in Dekalb County, Georgia.

viii. Arnold Thurman was born about 1863 in Dekalb County, Georgia.

ix. Alice A. Thurman, born Nov 1863, Dekalb County, Georgia; married John T. Allen, 1890.

x. Julia W. Thurman was born about 1867 in Dekalb County, Georgia.

________________________

   1. 1850 U. S. Census, Chattooga County, Georgia, population schedule, Summerville, Chattooga County, Georgia, Page 361A(stamped), Line 27, Dwelling 7, Family 7, Dempsey RIVERS; digital images, Ancestry.com (http://www.ancestry.com : viewed 2 May 2012); citing NARA publication Roll: M432_64.
     2. 1850 U. S. Census, DeKalb County, Georgia, population schedule, Town, DeKalb County, Georgia, Page: 135B; Line 1, Dwelling 56, Family 56, Household of John THURMOND; digital images, Ancestry.com (http://www.ancestry.com : viewed 6 May 2020); citing NARA publication Roll: M432_67.
     3. 1860 U. S. Census, Chattooga County, Georgia, population schedule, Chattooga Valley, Chattooga County, Georgia, Page: 556(stamped); Line 2, Dwelling 199, Family 199, Household of Dempsey RIVERS; digital images, Ancestry.com (http://www.ancestry.com : Viewed 2 February 2012); citing NARA publication Roll: M653_116.
     4. 1860 U. S. Census, De Kalb County, Georgia, population schedule, Pantherville Dist., DeKalb County, GA, Page: 349(Stamped); Line 9, Dwelling 680, Family 680, Household of J. W. THURMAN; digital images, Ancestry.com (http://www.ancestry.com : viewed 6 May 2020); citing NARA publication Roll: M653_119.
     5. 1870 U. S. Census, De Kalb County, Georgia, population schedule, Pantherville Dist., DeKalb County, GA, Page: 258(Stamped); Line 11, Dwelling 335, Family 335, Household of  J. W. THURMAN; digital images, Ancestry.com (http://www.ancestry.com : viewed 6 May 2020); citing NARA publication Roll: M593_147.
     6. 1900 U. S. Census, De Kalb County , Georgia, population schedule, Clarkston, De Kalb, Georgia, enumeration district (ED) 0018, Page: 10B/145 (Stamped); Line 60, Dwelling 179, Family 188, Household of John T. ALLEN; digital images, Ancestry.com (http://www.ancestry.com : viewed 6 May 2020); citing NARA publication Roll: T623_0192.
     7. Find A Grave, Inc., Find A Grave, database and digital images, (http://www.findagrave.com : accessed  2 May 2020); Memorial page for Sarah E. Rivers Thurman; (June 1830–1909); Find a Grave memorial # 100917736, Citing South Carolina Campground Cemetery; Holland, Chattooga County, Georgia, USA.
     8. "Georgia Marriages to 1850," database, Ancestry (http://www.ancestry.com : Viewed & downloaded 6 May 2020), Marriage: John W. Thurman to Sarah Mcduffie (RIVERS is the correct surname), Marriage Date: 7 Feb 1842.
     9. Find A Grave, Inc., Find A Grave, database, "Record, J. W. Thurman (10 November 1819–10 July 1904), Memorial # 33844103.    
     10. 1880 U. S. Census, Fulton County, Georgia, population schedule, Atlanta, Fulton County, Georgia, enumeration district (ED) 102, Page: 461B (Stamped); Line 5, Dwelling 183, Family 192, Household of  John W. THURMAN; digital images, Ancestry.com (http://www.ancestry.com : viewed 6 May 2020); citing NARA publication Roll: T9_0148.
     11. 1900 U. S. Census, De Kalb County , Georgia, population schedule, Clarkston, De Kalb, Georgia, ED 0018, Page: 10B/145 (Stamped); Line 60, Dwelling 179, Family 188, Household of John T. ALLEN.

Sale of a 300 Acre Tract to Blount Alsobrook, 1824

A few months ago while researching my DAVIS lineage in Marion County, South Carolina I ran across this snippet in the Marion county Minute Book.

1 March 1815
Then suspended the guardianship of Wm. Alsobrook guardian for Blunt Alsobrook the minor being of age.

Blount Alsobrook had reached the age of majority on 1 March 1815 and was now consider an adult.  Little did I know, at that time, that Blount Alsobrook would turn up again in my research married to a 1st cousin 6 times removed on my Moher's side of our lineage.

Sometime between this guardianship release and 1830 Blount Alsobrook met and married Mary Susan Cook. Mary Susan Cook was the 6th child born to Daniel Cook, Sr and his wife Ruth Moultrie. How Mary Susan, living in Chesterfield County and Blount living in Marion County South Carolina, met is still a mystery. I have not found a marriage licensee or any documentation of this Marriage.

Mary Susan Cook lost her father Daniel, Sr. sometime around and maybe shortly before 1812 leaving his widow Ruth Moultrie Cook with eleven (11)children of which at least 8 were under the age of twenty-one. I have found no record of her remarrying.  

Sometime before Oct 1816, Ruth Moultrie Cook and her children moved from Chesterfield County, South Carolina to Christian County, Kentucky. On 18 Oct 1819, Tabitha Cook, daughter of Daniel and Ruth Moultrie Cook married James Lindsay in Christian County, Kentucky.

It is said that Ruth was there for the wedding and I’m almost certain she was present. I do know that on 29 October 1821 Lewis B. Crane sold Ruth Cook 72 acres of land for $300 dollars.

On 10 August 1816, Joseph Moultrie Cook, son of Daniel Cook, Sr, deceased and Ruth Moultrie Cook, married Martha “Patsy” Lindsay in Christian County, Kentucky. Joseph Moultrie Cook was the oldest Son of Daniel and Ruth and most likely assume the leadership role for the Cook family.

Then on 10 January 1824, Joseph M. Cook sold Blount Alsosbrok (his brother-in-law) a 300 acres tract of land located and lying in Trigg County, Kentucky.

Transcription:

Joseph M. Cook to Blount Alsobrook Deed

This Indenture, made this tenth day of January 1824 between Joseph M. Cook of the  County of Trigg and Commonwealth of Kentucky of the one part and Blount Alsobrook of the County and Commonwealth affordsaid <sic> of the other part Witnefseth, that the said Joseph M. Cook for and in consideration of four hundred and fifty dollars in hand paid the Receipts whereof is hereby acknowledged hath granted and bargained and sold and by these presents doth grant bargain and sell unto the said Blount Alsobrook his heirs and afsigns all that tract or parcel of land situate and bring in the County of Trigg on the waters of Cumberland River and bounded as follows to wit: Beginning at a stake in Zachariah Johnson's line one hundred and Seventy-three poles from the River and Corner of my part of Sd. tract thence West with said line one hundred and seventy-three poles to three dogwoods and a popular Sd. Johnson's corner marked ZI thence South 11 East, three hundred poles to a popular, black oak and dogwoods thence East one hundred and seventy-three poles to a stake thence No. 11 W. three hundred poles to the beginning containing three hundred acres be the same more or lefs together with all and singular the appurtenances thereunto belonging or in anywise appertaining to have and to hold the land hereby conveyed with the appurtenances unto the Sd. Blount Alsobrook his heirs, Executors, and Administrators the aforesaid tract of land and appurtenances unto the Sd Blount Alsobrook his heirs or afsigns against the claim or claims of all and every person or persons whatsoever doth and will forever warrant and defend by these presents. In Witness whereof the said Joseph M. Cook hath hereunto set his hand and Seal the day and date above written.
Signed Sealed and delivered}                               Joseph M. Cook {Seal}
in the presents <sic> of}
Allen Grace}
Jefse Grace}         Trigg County To Wit:
James Jaminson}        Clerk Office 19th July 1824
                         The foregoing Indenture of bargain and sale from Joseph M. Cook to Blount Alsobrook was on this day produced to me William Cannon Clerk of the County Court for the County aforesaid and proven by the Several oaths of Allen Grace and Jefse Grace Subscribing Witnefses thereto to be the act & deed hand and Seal of Said Joseph M. Cook the grantor therein names for the purposes therein contained and the same was ordered to be recorded. In testimony whereof and that the same together with this Certificate are truly recorded in my office of Said County Court. I have hereto set my hand.
                                                                        Will Cannon

Trigg County, Kentucky
Deed Book A, page 439

Blount and Susan didn’t remain in the Tennessee/Kentucky area very long and by 1840 they were found in Wilcox County, Alabama. Blount Alsobrook died in Colbert County, Alabama in February 1880 from consumption. Mary Susan (Cook) Alsobrook died in October 1879 in Colbert County, Alabama. 

Joseph Moultrie Cook and Mary Susan Cook are my 1st Cousin 6 times removed. 

Daniel Cook, Sr. and Ruth Moultrie are my 5th Great Grand Uncle and Aunt. 

_________________________

[1] South Carolina Probate Re... Bound Volumes, 1671-1977 Marion Minute book and journal, 1800-1825;  Image 74 of 157; >>> https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/3:1:939L-V993-6R?i=73&wc=M6NW-96D%3A210902901%2C210902902&cc=1919417

[2] https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/3:1:3Q9M-CSLX-KS9T-F?i=259&cat=432792

Sellers~Privett Marriage

Transcription:

Mr. William Sellers and Miss Laura Privett, both of the Zoar section of this county, were married Sunday at the Methodist parsonage at Chesterfield by Rev. J. L. Tyler.

William Eli Sellers and Laura Ella Previtte were married on Sunday, 10 January 1915 by Rev. J. L. Tyler. They lived in the Zoar community so this wedding probably took place in Zoar United Methodist Church in that community. 

William Eli Sellers, b. 16 December 1891 was a son of William Lucas Sellers and his wife Anna Rachel Whittington. Laura Ella Previtte, b. 12 December 1893 was a daughter of William Kenson “Billy” Previtte and his wife Henrietta Elizabeth Davis.

William and Laura had a family of 7 children of which 6 lived; three sons and three daughters, Their first-born, of unknown gender, did not survive. 

William Eli Sellers is my 3rd Cousin twice removed.

Laura Ella Previtte is my 1st Cousin twice removed.

________________________________

[1] "Sellers--Privett Marriage," Marriage, The Pageland Journal, Pageland, South Carolina, 13 January 1915, Page 3, Column 1.

[2] Note: Privett/Previtt/Previtte is spelled many ways. I chose to spell it Previtte for my database.

Was David W. Graves Twice Married?

There is no doubt that David W. Graves married Mary Ann Gulledge about 1872 and together they reared a family of five children; 2 sons and 3 daughters. But was he previously married?

I THINK THAT HE WAS PREVIOUSLY MARRIED.

David W. Graves's age varies from Census to Census and among other documents. But, if his tombstone in the Saint Mary's Presbyterian Church Cemetery (old) is correct he was born 22 January 1812.

DAVID W. GRAVES./ BORN/ January 22, 1812,/ DIED/ November 21, 1898./ --/ Blessed are the pure in/ heart; for they shall see/ God./
Burial: Saint Mary's Presbyterian Church Cemetery (old); Patrick, Chesterfield County, South Carolina

Based on this date, from his Tombstone, David W. Graves was 60 years old when he married Mary Ann Gulledge. Mary Ann Gulledge was 30 years of age. It highly unlikely for any man to wait till he‘s 60 for his first marriage. There are other clues.

In the 1850 Census for Chesterfield County, we find David W. Graves, age 32, in the household of Mary Graves, age 55.  

This is the family of David W. Graves in 1850 Chesterfield, SC. Mary is the head of the household and very likely the Mother of David, age 32. Notice that his reported age would make David born in 1818, not 1812 as shown on his tombstone. 

But, who are the parents of Sarah Jane and Thomas? If David is the father of these two whether he was born in 1812 or 1818 either would not rule him out as the Father of the children. It's very unlikely that Mary is the Mother; she was a widow in the 1830 Census.

I think Sarah Jane and Thomas are children of David W. Graves and an unknown wife and that Mary Graves is the children's Grandmother and the Mother of David W. Graves. Based on the age of the children I think David was married about 1833. I have no physical record of David W. Graves until he appeared in the 1850 census for Chesterfield County, SC. If you have information about any of the GRAVES mentioned within the blog post I would love to hear from you. 

___________________________

[1] 1850 U. S. Census, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, population schedule, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, Page 106A, Line 8, Dwelling 110, Family 110, Household of Mary GRAVES; digital images, Ancestry.com (http://www.ancestry.com : viewed 20 November 2011); citing National Archives Microfilm M432 Roll 851.

[2] Find A Grave, Inc., Find A Grave, database and digital images, (http://www.findagrave.com : accessed 1 January 2008); Memorial page for David W. Graves; (22 January 1812–21 November 1898); Find a Grave memorial # 47922854, Citing Saint Marys Presbyterian Church Cemetery (old); Patrick, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, USA.

The “Burnt” Deed Book of Chesterfield County, SC

Most if not all fellow citizens of Chesterfield County know that pre-civil war records were destroyed by fire when the forces of Gen. Sherman marched through Chesterfield County in March 1865. The Courthouse was set fire by the Union force and all contents destroyed except for one “partial” deed book which was recovered from the fire. Some have heard this story but many Chesterfield County researchers today are unaware of the “Burnt” Deed Book.

The Burnt Deed Book contains over 200 pages most with the corners or entire section of pages illegible and unreadable. But, there are some hidden genealogy gems within these burnt pages. It was from the “Burnt” Book that I learned that James Rivers was married before he left for the Civil War from which he never returned. The readable portions of a land deed within this “Book” told me who he had married.  

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.
“conveyed to me by Wm. A. Rivers, by deed bearing date 10th Dec 1858. Said
Tract of land being a portion of the real Estate of Britton Dozier, laid off
To Nancy A. Rivers the wife of James Rivers, reference being had to a …”

James Rivers,age 23, married Nancy A. Dozier, daughter of James and Britten Dozier sometime before 10 December 1858

After learning of the Death of James Rivers, Nancy A. (Dozier) Rivers joined her Mother and brothers in Sumter County, Georgia.

There she married Noah Meeks on 16 Jan 1862. This tells us that James Rivers lost his life in the Civil War sometime before 16 January 1862. I have spent a lot of time looking for a death date for James Rivers without success. 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 been unable to determine if either of these 4 men is our James Rivers.

I have found other genealogical Gems within this book and I highly recommend you spend some time browsing through this Deed Book. The missing data and burnt sections are heart-wrenching especially since many missing sections contain essential data.

The “Burnt” Deed Book of Chesterfield County, South Carolina is LDS Film#1449103.

The URL for the “Burnt” Deed Book is -- https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/3:1:3Q9M-CSR8-L3RT-F?mode=g&cat=377727

________________________

[1] https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/3:1:3Q9M-CSR8-L3TS-N?i=77&cat=377727 (Image 78 of 254)

Treasure Chest Tuesday~The Marriage of Benjamin Davis and Rachel Port

Those who do research in South Carolina know that early marriage and death notices are a true treasure. My treasure for today is the 1748 Marriage of my 3rd Great GrandUncle William Davis, Sr. and Rachel Port.

I have only found the marriage document in "The Register Book for the Parish Prince Frederick Winyaw ANN: DOM: 1713".

This book was published by the National Society of the Colonial Dames of America, 1916, Williams & Wilkins Company, Baltimore, Maryland.

The Davis ~ Port marriage is mid-page

Transcription:

1748/9

Febry 21st Benjamin Davis & Rachel Port

Benjamin Davis, Sr. was born 17 Jul 1719 to Evan David, Sr. and Jane Rees in Merion Township, Pennsylvania. Married in South Carolina, Benjamin and Rachel resided in the Georgetown and Marion County area of the State.

Benjamin and Rachel are my 3rd Great Grand Uncle and Aunt.

_________________________

[1] National Society of the Colonial Dames of America, The Register Book of Parish Prince Frederick Winyaw (Baltimore, Maryland: William & Wilkins Company, 1916), page 56.

scription:

Joseph Davis To Daughter Ann Maria Fladger

Joseph Davis}
To}
Ann Maria Fladger} To all men to whom these presents shall come Greetings. I, Joseph Davis of the State of South Carolinas and in the District of Marion Planter do in consideration of the love good will and Regard, I have for and bear towards my daughter Ann Maria Fladger lend to her the use of two Negroe Slaves, known and distinguished by the names of Sophiah Bonapart during her Natural life, and give to her Ifsue if any, but in such case she should die leaving no ifsue then and in Such the two above named to be deemed a part of my Estate as if this Deed had never been given in confirmation of this my deed I have this day delivered unto her hand and of the above named Negroes namely Sophiah, in the Name of the two, and for the use and purposes above mentioned, and I do hereby nominate and appoint my son Abraham Giles Davis Trustee to this my Deed of Gift and I have hereunto fixed my hand & seal this first day of September in the Year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and fourteen and in the thirty Eights years of American Independence.                                Joseph Davis {}
Signed & Sealed in the
presence of Ann Dozer}
William Davis}
Henry Davis, Jr.}

South Carolina}
Marion District} By William Jugerlon Jr. (?) one of the Justices afsigned to keep the peace in and for the District of Marion personally came before me Henry Davis, Jr., and after being by me duly sworn made oath that he saw the within named Joseph Davis Sign seal and deliver the within instrument of writing unto the within named Ann Maria Fladger for the use and purpose within mentioned and that Ann Dozer and William Davis was the other subscribing Witnefs with himself. Sworn to before me this 3 day of September 1811.
Wm. Eagerton, Jr.                                              Henry Davis, Jr.
Recorded 5 June 1821 Thos. Harllee, R. M.


Lt. Joseph B. Davis is conveying a Deed of Gift of 2 Slaves to his daughter Ann Marie. Ann Marie Davis married Capt. Hugh Giles Fladger about 1809. Their first known child was born in 1810. Abraham Giles Davis, son of Joseph, was named Trustee. Witnesses were also family members or relatives consisting of Ann Dozer, William Davis and Henry Davis, Jr.

Lt. Joseph B. Davis is my 1st Cousin 4 times Removed.






_____________________
[1] Marion County, South Carolina, DEED BOOK I: page 394, Joseph Davis to Ann Maria Fladger; Register of Deeds, Marion, Marion County, South Carolina.

Richmond White & Ann his wife to Polly Beasley

I’m not related to Richmond White but do have a connection to his wife M. Anne [Parsons] White and her parents. Abington Parsons and his wife Mary[LNU], parents of Anne, are my 3rd Great Grandparents. My reason for posting this Land Deed is due to the genealogical information contained therein. Especially, the significances of land being sold to a free woman of Color.

Transcription:

Richmond White & Ann his wife to Polly Beasley

This indenture made this 20th day of June in the year of our Lord 1846 between Richmond White and Ann his wife in Chesterfield District in the state of South Carolina of the one part and Polly Beasley (a colored free woman)
of the County of Anson & State of North Carolina of the other part. Witnessed that the said Richmond White and Ann his wife for the in consideration of the value of twenty-five dollars [$25] to them in hand paid by the said Polly Beasley the receipt and payment whereof is hereby acknowledge have bargained sold conveyed and confirmed and by their presents <sic> do bargain sell confirm unto the said Polly Beasley her heirs and assigns a certain piece or parcel of land lying and being in the County of Anson in the state of North Carolina it being the individual distributive share of the said Richmond White in right of his wife Anna and in and of all the lands lying in the County of Anson and state of North Carolina which Abington Parsons the father of Ann White did seized and possess of to have and to hold the above described lands and premises unto the said Polly Beasley her heirs and assigns forever and the said Richmond White and Ann doth convenient and agrees to warrant and defend the rights titles and interests and claims in of and to the said Polly Beasley her heirs executors administrators assigned against.. their heirs Exc. Admr and assigns against the lawful claims or claims of any person or persons whomsoever together with all the appurtenances thereunto belonging and or in anywise appertaining. In witness whereof the said Richmond White and Ann his wife has hereunto set their hands and Seal this day and date first above written signed sealed and delivered.
                                                                Richmond White {seal}
                                                                Ann White {seal}
in the presence of
N. H. Tindel
Jos. R. Tindel

State of North Carolina}
Anson County} October term 1846 then the execution of the deed of conveyance was duly acknowledged in open court by Richmond White and Anna his wife whereupon Nathan Beverly a member of the court was appointed by the court to take the private examination of Anna his wife
                                                                 N. D. Boggan, Clk

State of North Carolina}
Anson County} Court of Pleas and Quarter Sessions. October term 1846, I, Nathan Beverly one of the members of the said court for the purpose this day proceeded to take the private examination of Anna White wife of Richmond White touching her voluntarily consent to the foregoing deed of conveyance separate and apart from her said husband whereupon she the said Anna White declares that she voluntary … to this said conveyance and that she executed the same fully and of her own accord without fear or compulsion of the said Richmond White her husband certified by me this 14th day of October A.D. 1846.
N. Beverly JP member of the Court
N. D. Boggan, Clk.
Ordered that the deed with the Certificates be Registered.

Richmond White and Anne Parsons had a rather large family of eight or nine children.  I have not found death date for either Richmond or Anne but Deed Book 2, page 355 in Chesterfield County shows that Richmond was deceased before 3 January 1870.

The Deed on DB 2, page 356(dated 3 January 1870) states "all that certain piece or parcel of land on Westfield Creek bounded by the lands of Wm Short, Estate of Richmond White and others, known as as the Mill sect on Indian Branch containing five acres...”
 
_____________________________.
[1] Anson County, North Carolina, Deed Book 12: pages 171 & 172, Richmond White & Ann his wife to Polly Beasley; 20 June 1846, Register of Deeds, Wadesboro, Anson County, North Carolina.

The Death of Calvin Cook Sellers and his daughter Martha

On 20 March 1852 Calvin Cook Sellers. a Chesterfield County SC native passed away in Wilcox County Alabama. He left a wife and 11 surviving children ALL under the age of sixteen. Shortly after his death, his 4th child and second born daughter Martha died on 5 July 1854. 

I have found no record that indicates his widow, Eliza A. Howell, remarried after his death. She with her eldest son, Calvin Cook Jr., cared for the family until they became of age.

Here’s a reason not to put your faith in a FindAGrave memorial. Calvin Cook Sellers Memorial says he died on 22 March 1852. Yet two-period documents following this memorial image says he died on the 20th of March 1852 (His obituary and his estate file).

The State of Alabama
Wilcox County
Probate Court Special Term, April the 3rd, 1852. Personally appeared in court Joseph D. Jenkins, Jeremiah Fail, Thomas E. McIver and William F. Wheeler, witnesses to the foregoing non-cupative will of Calvin C. Sellers, late of Wilcox County, dead, who after being duly sworn [did] depose and say that the said Calvin C. Sellers departed this life at his late residence in Wilcox County on Saturday, the 20th day of March, A.D. 1852. That on Friday the 19th of March, the day previous to his death and in the time of his last sickness.

https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/3:1:3Q9M-C95W-4QY5?cat=560910

Death of Calvin Cook Sellers

Death of  Col. C. C. Sellers.-Died, at his residence, near Camden, Wilcox county, on Saturday last, 20th inst., Col. C. C. Sellers, for many years a prominent member of our State Senate and a distinguished member of the Bar. In every point of view, he was one of the most respectable men in the State, and his death has created a void particularly in the county of Wilcox, that will be difficult to fill.
                             Advertiser and Gazette

[Alabama Beacon (Greensboro, Alabama) · 26 Mar 1852, Fri · Page 2, col 5.]

Estate of Martha Sellers

It having been made known to the Court that Martha Sellers departed this life in this county and that her death has been more than Sixty days and that no person entitled to administer upon her Estate has applied for letters of Administrations; and no other person having been appointed; And the Court be satisfied that the interest of those entitled to said estate requires that administration of the same should be had, It is therefore ordered and decreed by the Court, that administration upon said estate be and the same is herby committed to John A. Jackson in his capacity of Administrator General for the County, and as such administrator the said John A. Jackson is directed under this appointment to proceed with said administration according to law. 

Martha Sellers deceased
Probate Minutes Book
Book 10, Page 245, Image 321
https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/3:1:3Q9M-C95W-4W9X?i=320&cat=560910

Estate of Martha Sellers}

Be it remembered that on this day before the Probate Court of Wilcox County Ala personally appeared John A. Jackson as administrator of the estate of Martha Sellers deceased. Also appeared Daniel C. Sellers the guardian in fact of Samuel Sellers, Sidney P. Sellers, Emily H. Sellers, F. M. Sellers, Sarah E. Sellers, Lucy H. Sellers and David S. Sellers minors and who are interested in said estate. 

     And the said John A. Jackson administrator as aforesaid having at a previous time of this court filed an account between himself and said Estate charging himself with all afsets received by him as Such Guardian and giving himself credit for such vouchers and written evidence as he relies for a Final Settlement of Said Estate and he prays the Court now on this day to audit and examine Said account and to State and allow the same. And it appearing to the satisfaction of the Court that due notice of the time and place fixed for this Settlement had been given for three successive weeks by advertisement made in the Camden Republic a newspaper published in Said County. All the parties in interest being thus properly before the Court Thereupon the Court proceeded to an examination of Said account.
     And it appear from Such Examination that the Said Administrator is chargeable with the sum of Five Thousand and Fifty-eight 98/100 Dollars_and entitled to credit to the amount of One hundred and twelve 14/100 Dollars; which leaves a balance in the hands of Said Administrator due Said Estate of One Thousand Nine Hundred and forty-six 84/100 Dollars."
     It is, therefore ordered by the Court that said account so  Stated as aforesaid be allowed and that it be filed and recorded as a Final Settlement of said estates.
     It is further ordered that said Administrator proceed to make distribution of the balance as found to be due, in his hands among those entitled in manner & form as follows.
That is to say:
     To C. C. Sellers [Jr.] the sum of Two hundred and Sixteen 31/100 Dollars which amount is hereby Afsefsed and decreed as his distributive Share of said Estate. And the Said Administrator having made advancements to the said C. C. Sellers to the amount of One hundred and forty Eight 80/100 dollars there still remains a balance due said C. C. Sellers from said admn. of sixty-seven 51/100 dollars and which the said administrator is hereby decreed to pay over to him, and for which let execution ifsue &c.
         To Robert Fulenwider and Mary Fulenwider his wife for the use of Said wife and as her separate Estate the sun of Two Hundred and Sixteen 31/100 Dollars which is hereby afsefsed and decreed as their distributive share of said Estate and which the said administrator is hereby deemed to pay over to them and for which let Execution ifsue &c.
         To Samuel Sellers a minor by his Guardian D. C. sellers the sum of Two Hundred and sixteen 31/100 Dollars which is hereby afsefsed and decreed as his distributive share of Said Estate and which amount the said Administrator is hereby decreed to pay over to him by said Guardian & for which let Execution ifsue &c.
         To Sidney P. Sellers a minor by his Guardian D. C. Sellers the sum of Two Hundred and sixteen 32/100 Dollars which is hereby afsefsed and decreed as his distributive share of Said Estate. And which amount the said Admd is hereby decreed to pay over to him by said Guardian & for which let Execution may ifsue.
         To Emily H. Sellers a minor by his Guardian D. C. Sellers the sum of Two Hundred and sixteen 32/100 Dollars which amount is hereby afsefsed and decreed as her distributive share of Said Estate & which the said Admr is hereby decreed to pay over to her by said Guardian & for which let Execution may ifsue.    
         To Francis M. Sellers a minor by D. C. Sellers Guardian the sum of Two Hundred and sixteen 32/100 Dollars which is hereby afsefsed and decreed as his distributive share of Said Estate and which the said Admr is hereby decreed to pay over to him by said Guardian & for which let Execution ifsue &c. 
         To Sarah E. Sellers a minor by her Guardian D. C. Sellers the sum of Two Hundred and sixteen 32/100 Dollars which is hereby afsefsed and decreed as her distributive share of Said Estate and which the said Admr is hereby decreed to pay over to her by said Guardian & for which let Execution ifsue &c.
         To Lucy H. Sellers a minor by her Guardian D. C. Sellers the sum of Two Hundred and sixteen 32/100 Dollars which is hereby afsefsed and decreed as her distributive share of Said Estate and which the said Administrator is hereby decreed to pay over to her and for which let Execution ifsue.
         To David S. Sellers a minor by his Guardian D. C. Sellers the sum of Two Hundred and sixteen 32/100 Dollars which is hereby afsefsed and decreed as his distributive share of Said Estate and which the said Administrator is hereby decreed to pay over to him by Said Guardian & for which Execution may ifsue &c.
Now come the said Administrator and files Receipts in Satisfaction of certain of said decrees. It is ordered that said decrees  for which Said Receipts are files be Satisfied and that Said Receipts be Recorded. It is further ordered that said Administrator be and he is herby discharged fro further liability for and on account of the further administration of Said Estates. Said receipts are in words & figures as follows to wit:

Received Camden June 11th 1860 from John A. Jackson Admr &c of the Estate of Martha Sellers dec'd Five hundred & Sixteen 31/100 Dollars. payment in full of a decree this day rendered in the Probate Court of Wilcox County on the on the Final Settlement of Said Estate in favor of Robert Fulenwider & Mary his wife for the use of the said Mary.
                                                          R. Fulenwider

Received Camden June 11th 1860 from John A. Jackson Admr &c of the Estate of Martha Sellers dec'd Fifteen Hundred & fourteen 17/100 Dollars payment in full for seven decree this day rendered in the Probate Court of Wilcox Co. Ala. on the Final Settlement of Said Estate each for the sum of Five Hundred and sixteen 31/100 Dollars and in favor of D. C. Sellers as Guardian for Samuel Sellers, Sidney P. Sellers, Emily H. Sellers, Francis M. Sellers, Sarah E. Sellers, Lucy H. Sellers & David S. Sellers minors.
                                                          D. C. Sellers
                                                                   Guardian

Book 11, page 240
https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/3:1:3Q9M-C95W-44DX?i=149&cat=560910

Calvin Cook Sellers is a son of Samuel Sellers and Alice “Allie” Cook.

_____________________________

[1] "Death of Calvin Cook Sellers," Obituary, Alabama Beacon (Greensboro, Alabama), 26 March 1852, Page 2, col 5; Digital On-Line Archives, Newspapers.com (https://www.newspapers.com/ : viewed 24 April 2020).

[2] Find A Grave, Inc., Find A Grave, database and digital images, (http://www.findagrave.com : accessed 3 May 2020); Memorial page for Calvin Cook Sellers; (30 September 1811–20 March 1852); Find a Grave memorial # 126097264, Citing Sellers Family Cemetery; Millers Ferry, Wilcox County, Alabama, USA.

[3] https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/3:1:3Q9M-C95W-4W9X?i=320&cat=560910