Tragedy in the Leonidas Purvis Family

Leonidas Purvis was born 2 January 1858 In Trinity County, Texas, a son of Lucy Ann Purvis; daughter of Joseph Purvis and Elizabeth Cook. Between 1854 and 1855, Nancy Purvis Odom and her husband John Odom moved from Simpson County, Mississippi. Her sister, Lucy Ann, is believe to have moved with them to Trinity County, Texas. Joseph Purvis the father of Lucy Ann  Nancy Jane was deceased but their mother, Elizabeth, was living and wouldn’t pass away until sometime after 1860.  

Leonidas Purvis, born 2 January 1858  married Emma Johnson about 1877 in Trinity County, Texas. No record of their marriage has been found and this date is based on the birth of their first known child, Emma Odom. By the time Emma was born in 1876 her father Leonidas Purvis was also known as Leonidas Odom. Leonidas and Emma would have a second child, Martha Ann “Mattie” Odom born 10 December 1883. Also by the birth of Mattie, the first-borne Emma Odom had passed away. 

Page 243

4th That on the ____day of 1883 the said Emma Odom departed this life and left as issue Surviving her an only daughter named Mattie Odom. That she left Surviving her also her husband the said Leonidas Odom.

If the loss of a child wasn't enough tragedy for the family, the Mother, Emma Johnson Purvis, would succumb in 1883 shortly after the birth of her daughter Mattie Odom. Mattie would survive and live a very productive life passing away at age 80. 

Then 3 years later on 5 January 1886, Leonidas Purvis/Odom passed away leaving surviving his 3 year old daughter, Martha Ann “Mattie” Odom. 

Probate Minutes Book B Index -- Trinity County, Texas -Sept 1882-Nov 1886.

 Page 243, item 5, bottom of page. Page 243, Item 5. That on the 5th day of January A. D. 1886, the said Lenados [Leonidas] Odom departed this life and left Surviving him the said Mattie Odom, only daughter of him and his said deceased wife.-

By this time, Leonidas mother Lucy Ann Purvis was deceased. Stepping in to care for the 3 year-old “Mattie” was her Grandfather Robert Isaac Johnson. Robert Isaac Johnson. was appointed Guardian of the infant child, Martha "Mattie" Odom, age 3. 

Probate Minutes Book B Index -- Trinity County, Texas -Sept 1882-Nov1886.

 JOHNSON, R.I. (father of Emma Odom) Guardian 242-246, 

 ODOM, Emma nee Johnson Estate 242-246, 

 ODOM, Leonidas (father of Mattie) Estate 242-246, 

 ODOM, Mattie (dau of Emma) Guardianship 242-246,

http://files.usgwarchives.net/tx/trinity/court/proindxb.txt

Emma Johnson Purvis/Odom died 1883. 

Leonidas Purvis/Odom died 5 January 1886

Their First-born  Emma Purvis/Odom died before 1883. 

Their only surviving child, Martha Ann “Mattie” Purvis/Odom borne 10 December 1883; married William Jefferson Shaw (1878-1947) on 20 April 1901 in Walker County, Texas and died on 18 August 1964 in Bowie, Montague, Texas.  

______________________________________

[1] Probate Minutes Book B Index -- Trinity County, Texas -Sept 1882-Nov 1886. FHL Film#1005083

Christmas 2021

 Wishing All

a

Very Merry Christmas

and a

Happy & Prosperous New Year

The Henry Epps Brown Family

Henry Epps Brown was born on 28 May 1820 in Alabama. He was a son of John H. Brown and Sarah Rivers. Sometime around 1807, John H. Brown and Sarah Rivers his wife, migrated down through Georgia on to Alabama and finally settled for a while in Lauderdale County, Mississippi.  Then when John H. Brown died in 1855, Sarah went to Arkansas to live with her son Epps Rivers Brown.

Henry Epps Brown left Lauderdale County Mississippi sometime between 1850 and 1855. In 1850 he was still in Lauderdale County, Mississippi; but, by 1855 he had married Frances A. Shelton, daughter of Elijah Shelton. Frances A. Shelton was borne 22 Jan 1830 in Alabama.  

Henry Epps Brown was a lawyer and Judge in Union County, Arkansas.

Henry Epps and Fannie Shelton Brown had 4 children; Fannie brought 1 child into the marriage:
        i.    Cassy Ada Russell, born 3 Jan 1848, Alabama, United States; married Dr. William John Pinson, 2 May 1883, Union County, Arkansas; died 21 Dec 1938, Union County, Arkansas.
         ii.    Henry Clay "Hal" Brown, born 30 Aug 1856, Lauderdale County, Mississippi; married Mary Laconia Smith, 14 Jan 1878, El Dorado, Union, Arkansas; married 2nd, Ida Adeline Milliron, 30 Aug 1879, Collins, Texas; married 3rd Recenia Margaret Holland, 1878; died 15 Dec 1935, Terrell, Kaufman County, Texas.
         iii.    Amanda Rivers Brown, born 19 Feb 1857, Mississippi; married John J. Vogel, 25 Jul 1887, Miller, Arkansas; died 2 Sep 1934, ‎Miller County, Arkansas.
        iv.    Henrietta S. "Retta" Brown was born on 24 Jun 1861 in Mississippi. She died on 10 May 1933 at the age of 71 in El Dorado, Union, Arkansas and was buried in Woodlawn Cemetery, El Dorado, Union County, Arkansas.

On her FindAGrave Memorial we find the following comments about Retta Brown

Daughter of Judge Henry and Francis Shelton Brown.

An elementary school building in El Dorado was named in her honor, the Retta Brown Elementary School. In 2010 that facility is more formally known as Retta Brown Academy of Communication and Technology, located at 505 Dixie Drive, El Dorado AR 71730.

     v.    Virginia M. "Jennie" Brown, born Mar 1865, El Dorado, Union, Arkansas; married Lewis A. Petit, 1887; died bef 1920.

Henry Epps Brown died on 11 March 1889 in Howard County, Arkansas. Frances A. Shelton Brown passed away 27 August 1908.

The Legal Bar of Union County passed a resolution in honor and memory of Judge Henry Epps Brown. 

Local Bar Resolution}

Condolence at the}
Death of Hon. Henry}
Brown, Dec’d} ¹¹

Whereas it has pleased Almighty God to remove from the walks of man the Hon. Henry Brown formerly a member of this Bar of long and honorable standing and three times a Judge of the County and Probate Courts of this County, whose death occurred in Howard Co. Arks on the 4th day March 1889. Therefore be it resolve
That in the death of our brother and associate the state of Arkansas has lost a valuable & Estimable Citizen, the Bar an able & distinguished Jurist, Society an honorable member and family a loving husband and devoted father.
2. Resolved—That during the long residence of Judge Brown in our midst covering a period of about thirty years we always recognized in him a true friend & an honest conscientious gentleman devoted to duty in the various walks of life, and that we deplore his untimely death
Jesse B. Moore
T. J. Gaughan
Wm. D. Jameson
Committee

Henry Epps Brown is my 1st Cousin 5X Removed.

___________________________________________

1. Find A Grave, Inc., Find A Grave, database and digital images, (http://www.findagrave.com : accessed 31 July 2011); Memorial page for Henry Brown; (22 May 1820–11 March 1889); Find a Grave memorial # 30288691, Citing Center Point Cemetery; Center Point, Howard County, Arkansas, USA.

2. 1850, Lauderdale County, Mississippi, population schedule, Lauderdale County, Mississippi, enumeration district (ED) No ED, Page: 385B, Line 36, dwelling 844, family 857, Household of John H. Brown; digital images, Ancestry.com (http://www.ancestry.com : viewed July 2011); citing National Archives Microfilm Publication Roll M432_375.

3. 1860 U. S. Census, Union County, Arkansas, population schedule, EL Dorado, Union County, Arkansas, Page 316, Line 30, Dwelling/Family 704/652, Household of Henry BROWN; digital images, Ancestry.com (http://www.ancestry.com : viewed 31 July 2011); citing National Archives Microfilm M653 Roll 51.

4. 1870 U. S. Census, Union County, Arkansas, population schedule, El Dorado, Union County, Arkansas, Page: 510A; Line 36, Dwelling 342, Family 342, Household of Henry BROWN; digital images, Ancestry.com (http://www.ancestry.com : viewed 31 July 2011); citing National Archives Microfilm M593 Roll 65.

5. 1880 U. S. Census, Union County, Arkansas, population schedule, El Dorado, Union County, Arkansas, enumeration district (ED) #278, Page 348A; Line 1, Dwelling 100, Family 101, Household of Henry BROWN; digital images, Ancestry.com (http://www.ancestry.com : viewed 31 July 2011); citing NARA publication Roll: T9-0058.

6. Probate Court, Arkansas, Probate Records, 1817-1979,: Volume M (El Dorado, Union County, Arkansas: Probate Court, Union County, Arkansas, 1883–1893), page 395-396.

7. 1850 U. S. Census, Lauderdale County, Mississippi, population schedule, Lauderdale County, Mississippi, Page 385B (stamped), Line 22, Dwelling 841, Family #854, Household of Francis A. RUSSELL; digital images, Ancestry.com (http://www.ancestry.com : viewed 8 August 2011); citing NARA publication Roll: M432_375.

8. 1900 U. S. Census, Union County, Arkansas, population schedule, El Dorado Twp., Union County, Arkansas, enumeration district (ED) #123, Page: 47; Line 14,, Dwelling 88, Family 88, Household of W. J. PINSON; digital images, Ancestry.com (http://www.ancestry.com : viewed 4 August 2011); citing NARA publication Roll: T623_0078.

9. 1920 U. S. Census, Union County, Arkansas, population schedule, El Dorado, Union County, Arkansas, enumeration district (ED) #160, Page: 80A; Line 7, Dwelling 2, Family 2, Household of W. J. PINSON; digital images, Ancestry.com (http://www.ancestry.com : viewed 8 August 2011); citing NARA publication Roll: T625_0083.

10. Find A Grave, Inc., Find A Grave, database, "Record, Henrietta S "Retta" Brown (24 June 1848–10 May 1933), Memorial # 13971717.

11. Probate Court, Arkansas, Probate Records, 1817-1979,: Volume M (El Dorado, Union County, Arkansas: Probate Court, Union County, Arkansas, 1883–1893), page 395-396.

Reported Death of Nathaniel Knight

Sometimes the records we research provides some tantalizing information. Such was the case with the Estate of Hannah P.  Dunlap and the probate folder pertaining to the administration of her estate.  

But the surprise, to me, in her estate, is the man named as the estate Administrator and the revelation that 15 years of administering the named administrator died before the estate was settled.  

First for some background. The named administrator of Hannah P. Dunlap Estate was none other than Nathaniel Knight. But who is this Nathaniel Knight?

Nathaniel Knight took out Letters of Administration on this estate in Jan 1865 and in 1880 it is still to be settled. Upon the death of  Nathaniel Knight, Joseph J. Dunlap petitioned the court for Letters of Administration “de bonis non” with the Will annexed. Joseph J. Dunlap made bond and Letters of Administration “de bonis non” were issued to Joseph J. Dunlap on 29 May 1883.  

Transcription:

4. That Nathaniel Knight failed to under his accounts & make due {illegible??} to the courts and failed to collect it {illegible??} pay the legacies and administer it goods and chattels of his testator according to it conditions of his said bond. Said receipts & administrator never made any settlements of his said Administration and in all respects failed to carry out and comply with condition of his said bond.

5. That said [Nathaniel] Knight died in Montgomery County on the 14^th day of August 1880 and the Defendant Elias Hunley son thereof duly qualified as his administrator.

As stated above Nathaniel Knight died in Montgomery County on the 14^th day of August 1880

The big question now is – Who is Nathaniel Knight? Is this Nathaniel Knight, son of Aaron, found here in the 1850 Census’s for Chesterfield County?  

Click Image to enlarge

If you know who this Nathaniel Knight is; please contact me through this blog.  

___________________________

[1] https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/3:1:33SQ-GPRQ-98Y7?i=25&cc=1911121

[2] https://www.ancestry.com/discoveryui-content/view/209689:9061?tid=&pid=&queryId=aedd42064b15012d0ea5fc20a9f1fb8c&_phsrc=SoE32&_phstart=successSource

The Family of Mark and Martha Caroline Dean Rivers

 Mark Rivers was born on 22 Nov 1824 in Chesterfield County, South Carolina. He was a son of William Rivers and Elizabeth “Betsy” Rivers.  Mark was twice married; today we will focus on his second family with wife Martha Caroline Dean. The only occupation found recorded for Mark was that of a “Cooper”. Wikipedia shows a cooper to be a person trained to make wooden casks, barrels, vats, buckets and tubs.

Mark Rivers and Martha Caroline Dean were married on 3 Jan 1867 in Chesterfield County, South Carolina.

Note: There are two different dates for the Marriage of Mark Rivers and Martha Caroline Dean recorded in his Family Bible. The first date (13 Jan 1864) cannot be correct because Annie Parker, 1st wife, did not die until 28 January 1864 according to Mark Rivers Family Bible. The marriage date to Martha Caroline (3 Jan 1867) has to be the correct date. 

Martha Caroline Dean was born in Jul 1841 in Anson County, North Carolina.

Mark Rivers and Martha Caroline Dean had the following children:

i. John F. Rivers was born on 15 Nov 1867 in Bennettsville, Marlboro, South Carolina. He died on 26 Feb 1868 at the age of 0 in Bennettsville, Marlboro, South Carolina.

ii. Joseph Lee Rivers, born 28 Jan 1870, Marlboro County, South Carolina; married Mary Abigail Frasier, 13 Oct 1889, Bennettsville, Marlboro, South Carolina; died 22 Jan 1931, Wilson, Wilson County, North Carolina.

iii. Robert Johnson Rivers Sr., born 4 Feb 1872, Marlboro County, South Carolina; married Ida Kinnie Knight, 23 Dec 1897; died 23 Nov 1933, Jacksonville, Duval, Florida.

iv. Columbus Lafayette "Buck" Rivers Sr., born 1 Apr 1874, Marlboro County, South Carolina; married Atlanta J. Smith, 26 Dec 1902, Bennettsville, Marlboro, South Carolina; died 18 Feb 1911, Marlboro County, South Carolina.

v. Malachi Franklin Rivers was born on 23 Apr 1876 in Marlboro County, South Carolina.

vi. Nancy Ella Rivers, born 19 Sep 1878, Marlboro County, South Carolina; married William Angus Smith, 26 Sep 1897, Marlboro County, South Carolina; married Walter Thomas Mayers, bef 1910; died 24 Feb 1947, Charlotte, Mecklenburg, North Carolina.

vii. Caroline Lugene "Carrie" Rivers, born 19 Dec 1880, Bennettsville, Marlboro, South Carolina; married James Marion McQuage Sr., 15 Dec 1895, Marlboro County, South Carolina; died 10 May 1951, Marlboro County, South Carolina.

viii. Laura Clide Rivers, born 9 Mar 1884, Marlboro County, South Carolina; married William Garland Smith, 6 Nov 1899; died 4 Mar 1970, Richmond, Henrico, Virginia.

Mark Rivers died on 9 May 1884 at the age of 59 in Bennettsville, Marlboro, South Carolina. Martha Caroline Dean died on 25 May 1906 at the age of 64 in Marlboro County, South Carolina. Both are buried in the Spears Cemetery, Marlboro County, South Carolina,

Mark Rivers is my 3rd Great Grand Uncle.

______________________________

1. 1850 U. S. Census, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, population schedule, Chesterfield, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, page 179B, Line 25, Dwelling 1243, Family 1243, Household of Mark Rivers; digital images, Ancestry.com (http://www.ancestry.com : viewed 22 June 2011); citing National Archives Microfilm M432 Roll 851.

2. 1860 U. S. Census, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, population schedule, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, Page 127B, Line 8, Dwelling 476, Family 475, Household of Mark RIVERS; digital images, Ancestry.com (http://www.ancestry.com : viewed 22 July 2011); citing National Archives Microfilm M653_1217.

3. "Known Confederate Casualties During the Battle of Monterey Pass July 4-5, 1863," , War Returns to South Mountain (http://montereypass.blogspot.com/2010/08/total-known-confederate-casualties.html : viewed 3 August 2011), transcription, "Mark RIVERS," ; Company B, 26 South Carolina Infantry.

4. 1880 U S Census, Marlboro County, South Carolina, population schedule, Adamsville, Marlboro County, South Carolina, enumeration district (ED) #104, Page: 359A; Line 39, Dwelling 6, Family 6, Household of Mark Rivers; digital image, Ancestry.com (http://www.ancestry.com : viewed 22 July 2011); citing National Archive Microfilm T9, Roll 1235.

5. Elizabeth C. Drake, Marlboro County Cemetery Survey; Marlboro County Historical Society, 1984, page 132. Tombstone of Mark Rivers; 22 November 1824–9 May 1884, Spears & Edens Graveyard, Bennettsville, Marlboro County, South Carolina.

6. Find A Grave, Inc., Find A Grave, database and digital images, (http://www.findagrave.com : accessed 23 May 2010); Memorial page for Mark Rivers; (22 November 1824–9 May 1884); Find a Grave memorial # 37942003, Citing Spears Cemetery; Marlboro County, South Carolina, USA.

7. Mark Rivers & Caroline Dean Rivers Family Bible Holy Bible, (New York, New York: n.p., n.d.); Obtained from Betty Lee, 8 Xeroxed page from Original Bible. Birth & Death: 9 Sept 1861 - 13 Oct 1868, Sarah Harriett Rivers.

8. Family data, Mark RIVERS Family Bible, Holy Bible, (New York: George Lane & Lewis Scott, 1849); original owned by Unknown, [address for private use].

9. 1900 U. S. Census, Marlboro County, South Carolina, population schedule, Smithville Township, Marlboro County, South Carolina, enumeration district (ED) #99, Page 277, Line 1, Dwelling 1, Family 1, Household of William SMITH; digital images, Ancestry.com (http://ancestry.com : viewed 22 July 2011); citing National Archives Microfilm  T623_1536.

10. Elizabeth C. Drake, Cemetery Records of Marlboro County, South Carolina; Marlboro County Historical Society, 1984, Page 132. Tombstone of Martha Caroline Dean Rivers; July 1841-25 May 1906, Spears & Edens Graveyard, Marlboro County, South Carolina.

11. Find A Grave, Inc., Find A Grave, database, "Record, Martha Caroline Dean Rivers (July 1841–25 May 1906), Memorial # 159009334.

12. Mark Rivers & Caroline Dean Rivers Family Bible, Birth: - 15 Nov 1867, John F. Rivers.

13. Mark Rivers & Caroline Dean Rivers Family Bible, Death - 26 Feb 1868, John F. Rivers.

14. Elizabeth C. Drake, Marlboro County Cemetery Survey, Marlboro County Historical Society, 1984. Tombstone of Mallie Franklin Rivers.

25. Elizabeth C. Drake, Marlboro County Cemetery Survey, Marlboro County Historical Society, 1984. Tombstone of Mallie Franklin Rivers.

The Marriage of William Daughtery Sellers

 William Daughtery ‘Dock’ Sellers was borne 11 Feb 1864 in Butler, Choctaw County, Alabama. He was a son of Mathew Sellers and Sarah “Sallie” Turnage whose roots began in Chesterfield County, South Carolina. He was the last of eight children borne to Mathew and Sallie.

At age 28, William D. Sellers and Melissa Christian were united in marriage on 6 January 1893 in Butler County, Alabama. William was a farmer for most of his life but the 1940 Census shows him as a retired Loomer. 

William Daughtery Sellers and Melissa Christian had the following children:

i. Maggie V. Sellers was born in Jul 1893 in Choctaw County, Alabama.

ii. Sallie M. Sellers was born in Dec 1894 in Choctaw County, Alabama.

iii. William Frank Sellers was born in May 1897 in Choctaw County, Alabama.

Melissa Christian Sellers passed away on 20 May 1905 at the age of thirty-one.  William Daughtery Sellers, age 84, died on 27 February 1948. She was buried in  Choctaw County, Alabama; he is buried in Ralls Cemetery, Ralls, Crosby County, Texas. 

____________________________________

1. Find A Grave, Inc., Find A Grave, database and digital images, (http://www.findagrave.com : accessed 2 December 2020); Memorial page for William D. Sellers; (11 February 1864–27 February 1948); Find a Grave memorial # 28448938, Citing Ralls Cemetery; Ralls, Crosby County, Texas, USA.

2. 1880 U. S. Census, Choctaw County, Alabama, population schedule, Beat 4, Choctaw County, Alabama, enumeration district (ED) 017, Page: 204D (stamped); Line 15, Dwelling NL, Family 218, Household of Mathew SELLERS; digital images, Ancestry.com (http://www.ancestry.com : Viewed 12 September 2015); citing NARA publication T9, Roll: 007.

3. 1900 U. S. Census, Choctaw County, Alabama, population schedule, Precinct 4, Choctaw, Alabama, enumeration district (ED) 013, Page 13B/235(Stamped), Line 55, Dwelling 217, Family 217, Household of Dock SELLERS; digital images, Ancestry.com (http://ancestry.com : viewed 2 December 2020); citing National Archives Microfilm T623_7.

4. 1910 U. S. Census, Clarke County, Mississippi, population schedule, Quitman, Clarke, Mississippi, enumeration district (ED) 0002, Page 6B/52 (Stamped), Line 79, Dwelling 85, Family 85, Household of William D. SELLERS; digital images, Ancestry.com (http://www.ancestry.com : viewed 2 December 2020); citing NARA publication T624.

5. 1930 U. S. Census, Crosby County, Texas, population schedule, Precinct 1, Crosby, Texas, enumeration district (ED) 0002, Page 12B/186 (Stamped), Line 76, Dwelling 244, Family 245, Household of William D. SELLERS; digital images, Ancestry.com (http://www.ancestry.com : viewed 2 December 2020); citing National Archives Microfilm T626.

6. 1940 U. S. Census, Crosby County, Texas, population schedule, Crosby, Texas, enumeration district (ED) 54-8, Page 4B/102 (Stamped), Line 47, Household #73, Household of William D. SELLERS; digital images, Ancestry.com (http://www.ancestry.com : viewed 2 December 2020); citing National Archives Microfilm T627.

7. William Daughtery Sellers, death certificate #6330 (Death Date: 27 Feb 1948), Vital Records, Department of Health, Austin, Travis County, Texas.

8. "W. D. Sellers, 84, Of Ralls, Death Victim," Death Notice/Obituary, Lubbock Morning Avalanche, Lubbock, Texas, 28 February 1948, Page 2, Column 2; Digital On-Line Archives, Newspapers.com (https://www.newspapers.com/ : clipped 3 May 2021); https://www.newspapers.com/.

9. "Alabama Marriages, 1816-1942," database, Ancestry (http://www.ancestry.com : viewed on-line 2 December 2020), Marriage: W. D. Sellers & Melissa Christian; FHL Film Number: 1788198.

10. Find A Grave, Inc., Find A Grave, database, "Record, Mittie J. Sellers (26 February 1874–20 May 1905), Memorial #68176679.

It’s Family Time~The Charles Daniel Sides Family

Charles Daniel Sides was born on 7 Sep 1831 in Cabarrus County, North Carolina. He was a son of Daniel Sides and Esther Dry. He was the 4^th of 12 children born to this couple. Charles Daniel Sides was baptized on 22 July 1832; Sponsor by George Dry and Wife.

Charles Daniel Sides and Sarah Matilda Lewis were married about 1857. This projected marriage year is based on the birth of their first-born child Laurence Calvin Sides, borne 10 April 1858; died 25 July 1931.

Sarah Matilda Lewis, a daughter of Alfred Lewis and Mary Bell McCree, was born on 16 Feb 1837 in Iredell County, North Carolina.

Charles Daniel Sides and Sarah Matilda Lewis had the following children:

i. Laurence Calvin Sides, born 19 Apr 1858, Iredell County, North Carolina; married Minnie O. Holder, 29 Mar 1888; died 25 Jul 1931, Concord, Cabarrus, North Carolina.

ii. Mary Ellen "Mollie" Sides was born on 13 Feb 1861 in Iredell County, North Carolina. She died on 20 Sep 1929 at the age of 68 in Iredell County, North Carolina.

After the birth of his second child, Charles Daniel Sides at age 33, enlisted on August 8, 1862 into the Confederate Army for the duration of the war. On May 12, 1864, Charles Daniel Sides was captured at Spotsylvania, and imprisoned until his death on 8 February 1865 at Elmira Prison, Elmira, Chemung, New York. Charles Daniel Sides was buried at Woodlawn National Cemetery, Plot: CSA 1956.

Sarah Matilda (Lewis) Sides died on 2 Jul 1917 at the age of 80 and was buried at Concord Presbyterian Church Cemetery, Statesville, Iredell County, North Carolina.

Charles Daniel Sides is my 1st Cousin 4X Removed. 

_____________________________

1. Bostian Frank K. and Cruse B. W. (Bernard W.), Dutch Buffalo Creek Meeting House, 1745-1806 (Mount Pleasant, N.C.: Bethel Bear Creek United Church of Christ, 1974), page 64.

2. 1850 U. S. Census, Iredell County, North Carolina, population schedule, Iredell, North Carolina, Page: 404B (stamped); Line 4, Dwelling 6, Family 6, Household of Danl SIDES; online database, Ancestry.com (http://www.ancestry.com : viewed 14 November 2014); citing National Archives Microfilm Publication M432, Roll 634.

3. 1860 U. S. Census, Iredell County, North Carolina, population schedule, South of Yadkin River, Iredell, North Carolina, enumeration district (ED) NL, Page: 218(Stamped); Line 4, Dwelling 556, Family 536, Household of Wm. BARNSLEY; online database, Ancestry.com (http://www.ancestry.com : viewed 1 December 2020); citing National Archives Microfilm Publication M653, Roll 902.

4. Louis H. Manarin, North Carolina Troops, 1861-1865: A Roster (Raleigh, North Carolina: Office of Archives and History, 2013), Volume 4, page 241-242, Private Charles D. Sides.

5. Find A Grave, Inc., Find A Grave, database and digital images, (http://www.findagrave.com : accessed 1 December 2020); Memorial page for Pvt C D Sides; (Unknow-8 Feb 1865); Find a Grave memorial # 66213345, Citing Woodlawn National Cemetery; Elmira, Chemung County, New York.

6. Ancestry, "Civil War Service Records" database, Military Service Records (https://www.fold3.com/ : accessed 1 December 2020), entry for Charles D. Sides, Private; 5th NC Company I; Confederate.

7. Find A Grave, Inc., Find A Grave, database, "Record, Sarah Matilda Lewis Sides (16 February 1837–2 July 1917), Memorial # 74008285.

8. 1870 U. S. Census, Iredell County, North Carolina, population schedule, , ; online database, Ancestry.com (http://www.ancestry.com : accessed ); citing National Archives Microfilm Publication M593, Roll 1144.

Revolutionary War Enlistment~Bollin Huneycutt

Research on the Hunnicutt/Huneycutt/Honeycutt Surname along with many other variations has been on-going for years. One of those men who have been so elusive is Bolin Huneycutt.

This week a new document came into my hand, sent to me by a young eager family historian. It was a first for me and a very important document concerning Bolin Huneycutt. Up until this point, we knew Bolin was married, had a wife named Sarah and three boys, Silas, Joel and John. We also had a Will that Bolin left at his death in Anson County, North Carolina. He was enumerated in two Anson County Censuses and died there in 1810 sometime before 2 June 1810. Based on census I had his birth occurring about 1751.  

The Enlistment document found this week contains the following statement

I Bollin Hunnycutt of the County of Chatham and State aforesaid about twenty five years old

the Document is dated 1780; so if Bolin is 25 then his birth year is 1755; thus, an adjustment was made in my database.

Transcription:

Courtesy of Sherry Graham

State of North Carolina}

I Bollin Hunnycutt of the County of Chatham and State aforesaid about twenty five years old about five feet Eleven inched High Black hair Dark Eyes farmer to trade Have vollunterily <sic> Enlisted Myself a Soldier for the term of three years or During the war with Great Brittain and to serve in one of the Continental Regiments of this State and I do Sware <sic> on the Holy Evangelist of almighty God that I Will Be true and faithfull to the United States and Be obeyed and to the orders of all the officers put over me and in causes Behave Myself as a Good and faithfull Soldier Agreeable to articles of war made for the Government of the Continental Army and I do further Sware <sic> that I am healthy sound & clear of any ulcers or Sores on my legs and any other part of My Body and that I an no Seaman (?) or foreigner and that I was a Citizen of this State before this 8th Day of May 1780.
Sworn before me}                                       Bollin X his mark Hunnycutt
4th day Nov. 1780}
John Nichols, J. P.

https://digital.ncdcr.gov/digital/collection/p16062coll26/id/356

https://digital.ncdcr.gov/digital/collection/p16062coll26/id/904/rec/3

These documents add a new area of research for Bolin Huneycutt, and the potential to discover his parentage, maiden name of wife and other personal information. A good description of his physique is contained with the Enlistment Document.

________________________________

The two documents mentioned within this web blog were provided Courtesy of Sherry Graham. My thanks to Sherry for providing a copy and the links to these documents. 

Do keep in mind that Bolin/Bollen and Huneycutt/Honeycutt are spelled many different ways.

The Ben P. & Mary Eleanor (Hurst) Stiles Family

Benjamin Purtle "Ben" Stiles was born on 22 Jul 1877 in Kentucky. His parents, Charley and Sarah Ellen Neff Stiles had moved their family from Kentucky to Collins County, Texas sometime before 1900. Ben, as he was known, was a farmer and the 1930 Census shows that he owned his farm.

Mary Eleanor Hurst, daughter of Joseph Thurman Hurst and Amanda J. Davis, was born on 18 Nov 1888 in Chesterfield, Chesterfield, South Carolina. Joseph Thruman Hurst and Amanda J. Davis, left Chesterfield with his parents, PJ Hurst headed west to Arkansas in the early 1890’s.

Messenger-Intelligencer Jan 30, 1890 A convoy of families from Anson & Chesterfield have packed up to move to Arkansas. The Anson men leaving are WB Hinson, Joseph Ashcraft, Thos Phillips, John Talton, Marshall Phillips, James Green, John Niven, Fincher Huntley - The Chesterfield County men are PJ Hurst, JL Rivers, SW Lisenby, JT Hurst, GL Moore, Peter Moore, John Adams. Steve Bailey Facebook Page - https://www.facebook.com/pages/Anson-County-NC-Genealogy-Services/316137393571?fref=ts

By June 1900, Joe Hurst, a widower, can be found in Collins County, Texas. Family folklore says his wife, Amanda J. (Davis) Hurst passed away on the trip between Cleveland County, Arkansas and Collins County, Texas. No record of her death or tombstone has been found.

Benjamin Purtle "Ben" Stiles and Mary Eleanor Hurst were married on 7 Feb 1906 in Collin County, Texas.

Benjamin Purtle Stiles and Mary Eleanor Hurst had the following children:

i. Burch Stiles, born 8 Dec 1906, Collin County, Texas; married Marie Betty; died 4 Apr 1981, Prnct 1, Collin, Texas.

ii. Charles L Stiles, born 23 Feb 1909, Collin County, Texas; married Mattie Craft; died 4 Jul 1988, Dallas, Dallas, Texas.

iii. Ruth Stiles, born 12 May 1911, Collin County, Texas; married Joe Frair; died 30 Jan 2000, Dallas, Dallas, Texas.

iv. Lena Lynn Stiles, born 11 Apr 1913, Collin County, Texas; married Michael Anthony Cannata, 28 Aug 1944, California; died 30 Jun 2000, Norwalk, Los Angeles, California.

v. Ida Leota Stiles, born 26 Aug 1915, Collin County, Texas; married Wayne Buchanan; married Buddy Hall; died 23 Feb 2002, Dallas, Dallas, Texas.

vi. Infant Stiles was buried in May 1918 in Collin County, Texas. He was born on 7 May 1918 in Collin County, Texas. He died on 7 May 1918 at the age of 0 in Collin County, Texas.

vii. Joseph W. Stiles was born on 9 Mar 1923 in Collin County, Texas. He was buried in Apr 1923 in Collin County, Texas. He died on 28 Apr 1923 at the age of 0 in Collin County, Texas.

viii. Bennie Ervin Stiles, born 24 Jan 1921, Collin County, Texas; married Betty Ruth Wells, 1 Apr 1949, Dallas, Collin, Texas; died 4 Feb 2003, Henderson, Clark, Nevada.

Ben Stiles died on 1 Feb 1956 at the age of 78, and buried 3 Feb 1956 at Cottage Hill Cemetery in Celina, Collin, Texas. Mary Eleanor (Hurst) Stiles died on 13 May 1943, age of 54, and was buried on 14 May 1943 at Cottage Hill in Collin County, Texas.

Mary Eleanor (Hurst) Stiles is my 2^nd Cousin Twice Removed.

______________________________________

1. Find A Grave, Inc., Find A Grave, database and digital images, (http://www.findagrave.com : accessed 3 September 2009); Memorial page for Ben P. Stiles; (22 July 1877–1 February 1956); Find a Grave memorial # 6545860, Citing Cottage Hill Cemetery; Celina, Collin County, Texas, USA.

2. 1910 U. S. Census, Collin County, Texas, population schedule, Justice Precinct 4, Collin, Texas, enumeration district (ED) 019, Page #18/41 (stamped), Line 25, Dwelling 309, Family 318, Household of B. P. STILES; digital images, Ancestry.com (http://www.ancestry.com : viewed 3 September 2009); citing National Archives Microfilm T624, Roll 1540.

3. 1920 U. S. Census, Collin County, Texas, population schedule, Weston, Collin, Texas, enumeration district (ED) 021, Page 9B/95 (stamped), Line 61, Dwelling 178, Family 196, Household of Ben P. STILES; digital images, Ancestry.com (http://www.ancestry.com : viewed 3 September 2009); citing National Archives Microfilm T625, Roll 1782.

4. 1930 U. S. Census, Collin County, Texas, population schedule, Precinct 4, Collin, Texas, enumeration district (ED) 0023, Page 2B/212 (stamped), Line 53, Dwelling 45, Family 45, Household of Ben P. STILES; digital images, Ancestry.com (http://www.ancestry.com : viewed 3 September 2009); citing National Archives Microfilm T626, Roll 2302.

5. 1940 U. S. Census, Collin County, Texas, population schedule, Collin, Texas, enumeration district (ED) 43-27, Page 1A/416 (stamped), Line 27, Household #7, Household of Ben P. STILES; digital images, Ancestry.com (http://www.ancestry.com : viewed 3 September 2009); citing National Archives Microfilm T627, Roll xxx.

6. Texas, Death Certificates, 1903–1982, Ben P Stiles, 1 February 1956; Digital, database, Ancestry, Ancestry.com (http://www.ancestry.com : viewed 3 January 2021).

7. "Ben P. Stiles 78, Dies at McKinney," Obituary, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, Fort Worth, TX, 3 February 1956, Page 21, column 2; Digital On-Line Archives, Newspapers.com (https://www.newspapers.com/: viewed 3 January 2021); Newspapers.com.

8. Collin County, Texas, marriage (7 February 1906), B. P. STILES & ELEANOR HURST; County Courthouse, Collin County, Texas.

9. Find A Grave, Inc., Find A Grave, database, "Record, Eleanor Hurst Stiles (8 November 1888–13 May 1943), Memorial # 6545859.

10. 1900 U. S. Census, Collin County, Texas, population schedule, Justice Precinct 4, Collin County, Texas, enumeration district (ED) 15, Page 3B/55B (stamped); Line 67, Dwelling 62, Family 62;, William J. A. HURST; digital images, Ancestry.com (http://www.ancestry.com : viewed 12 September 2012); citing National Archives Microfilm T623, Roll 1621.

11. Texas, Death Certificates, 1903–1982, Mrs. Eleanor Stiles, 13 May 1943.

12. "Mrs. Eleanor Stiles Passes Away, 13 May 1943," Page 1, Column 3."

13. Find A Grave, Inc., Find A Grave, database, "Record, Eleanor Hurst Stiles (8 November 1888–13 May 1943), Memorial # 6545859.

The Last Will and Testament of John Bittle

Today we will look at the last will and testament of John Bittle. Many families both in Anson County, NC and Chesterfield county, SC are descendants of John Bittle and his wife Mary.  Mary’s last name is unknown but many researchers think her surname may be Gathings.

In the interest of brevity I am only enclosing page 1 of the Last Will and Testament with a link whereby you can freely download all pages of the Will.

https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/3:1:939L-N3LL-9?i=495&wc=MPP5-3TT%3A190567401%2C190561002%2C190567402%2C191220701&cc=1911928

John Bittle and his wife Mary had nine children.

Transcription:

The State of South Carolina,

                                      In the name of God, Amen.
I John Bittle of the District of Chesterfield and State aforesaid,being of sound and disposing mind and understanding, do make publish and declare this to be my last will and testament, in manner and form following viz:
First_It is my will and desire that all my just debts and funeral expenses be paid.
Second_ I give and bequeath to my sons Irvin Bittle, Burrel R. Bittle and John W. Bittle each Five dollars.
Third_I give and bequeath to my daughter, Elmira Long, (widow of Edmund Long), Mary Ulsey Liles (wife of Thomas H. Liles), Eliza Jane Brantley(wife of Wm. P. Brantley) and Narcissa Riley (Wife of Alex. H. Riley) each Five dollars.
Fourth_It is my will and desire that my Executors hereinafter named shall if necessary, dispose of such of my personal property,as to them shall seem best, to the advantage my estate, in paying of my just Creditors, and funeral expenses, and the legacies bequeathed respectively to my sons and daughters above named.
Fifth_I give and bequeath to my two daughters, Roxana Bittle and Emily Vick (widow of Albert Vick, deceased) the whole of the remainder of my estate, both real and personal, to have, hold and enjoy the same jointly during their natural lives, and upon the death of either of my said daughters, (Roxana or Emily), it is my will and desire that, that portion of my estate to which she was entitled at her death, shall go to the one then surviving, (Roxana or Emily) and at the death of the other, it is my will and desire that the wholeof my estate both real and personal be equally divided among all of my heirs,share and share alike, my Grandson Franklin Bittle son of my daughter EmilyVick  taking an equal share with the other of my heirs the child or children of any deceased parent, taking the share to which his, her or their parents would have been entitled if living.
Sixth_It is my will and desire that my two daughters Roxana Bittle & Emily Vick shall remain and live together on my estate, and in case either of them should marry, it is then my will and desire that, that portion of my estate to which she was then holding and enjoying, shall go to the use and benefit of the other, and in the event that both of my said daughters should marry, it is then my will and desire, that my estate real and personal be divided among all of my heirs in the same manner as prescribed in the fifth clause of this my will---
Seventh_I hereby nominate constitute and appoint my friend David Rivers, & A. M. Streater Executors and my daughter Roxana Bittle Executrix to this my last will and testament.
           In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this Twenty fifth day of February,in the year of our Lord One thousand eight hundred and sixty eight and in the Ninety second year of the Sovereignty and Independence of the United States of America. 
Signed, Sealed, published and}                            John  X his mark Bittle (Seal)
Declared by the testator as and}
For his last will and testament}
In our presence who at his request}
and in his presence, and in the}
presence of each other, have signed}
our names as witnefses to the due}
execution thereof}   
W. J. Hanna
W. T. Craig
H. Craig, Jr.     
 
State of South Carolina}
Chesterfield County}
                            We do solemnly swear that the annexed writing contains the last will and testament of then above named John Bittle deceased, so far as we know or believe, and that we will well and truly execute the same by paying first the debts and then the legacies contained in said Will, as far as his goods and chattels will thereunto extend and the law charges us; and that we will make a true and perfect inventory of all such goods and chattels—so help as God.__
Sworn and Subscribed to before me}                          David Rivers
The 25th day of February 1871.}                                A. M. Streater
                            Hugh Craig
                            Judge of Probate                          
 

_______________________________

[1] https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/3:1:939L-N3LL-9?i=495&wc=MPP5-3TT%3A190567401%2C190561002%2C190567402%2C191220701&cc=1911928

Happy Thanksgiving 2021

 

Wishing all my readers and subscribers the very best Thanksgiving Day and do hope you are blessed on this day and throughout the years. 

 Happy Thanksgiving. 

_________________________

Photo Courtesy of https://pixabay.com/photos/pumpkin-vegetables-autumn-basket-1768857/

It’s Family Time~The Duncan Daniel Douglas Family

Duncan Daniel Douglas was born on 4 Sep 1843 in Chesterfield, Chesterfield, South Carolina. He was a son of John Duncan McLaurin Douglas and his wife, Harriet Newell McFarland. Duncan Daniel served in the Civil War with Company E, 21st SC Infantry, enlisting on 20 December 1861. He was captured on 27 February 1865 at Lynch Creek, South Carolina and paroled 6 March 1865 at the same place. Duncan can be found in the Census for Chesterfield County in the Court House District.

Pvt. Duncan Daniel Douglas and Lucy Anne Sellers were married about 1863 in Chesterfield County, South Carolina. Lucy Anne Sellers, daughter of Elijah Sellers and Sarah Purvis, was born on 7 Sep 1841 in Chesterfield, Chesterfield, South Carolina. Lucy was the youngest of 6 children. She had an older sister and 4 brothers.

Daniel Duncan Douglas died on 17 Mar 1914 at the age of 70 in Chesterfield, Chesterfield, South Carolina. He was buried in the Hurst Cemetery on 18 Mar 1914 in Chesterfield, Chesterfield, South Carolina.

Lucy Anne (Sellers) Douglas died on 2 Jun 1919 at the age of 77 in Chesterfield, Chesterfield, South Carolina. She was buried with her husband in the Hurst cemetery on 3 Jun 1919.

Duncan Daniel Douglas and Lucy Anne Sellers had the following children:

i. Sidney Douglas, born Sep 1867, Chesterfield, Chesterfield, South Carolina; married Anna Jane Odom, 1894, Chesterfield, Chesterfield, South Carolina; died 26 Jul 1934, Wadesboro, Anson, North Carolina.

ii. Sarah Harriet Douglas, born 5 Apr 1869, Chesterfield, Chesterfield, South Carolina; married Jarret Chester Vick; died 10 Oct 1947, Richmond, Virginia.

iii. J. Lucas Douglas, born 5 Mar 1873, Chesterfield, Chesterfield, South Carolina; married Dessie Jane Odom, abt 1913; died 1955, Boca Raton, Palm Beach, Florida.

iv. Margaret Catherine Douglas, born 31 Aug 1875, Chesterfield, Chesterfield, South Carolina; married Levi Jackson Rayfield; died 5 Jul 1957, Chesterfield, Chesterfield, South Carolina.

v. Carl Quincey Douglas, born 28 Dec 1877, Chesterfield, Chesterfield, South Carolina; married Josie Brantley, 1909; died 18 Mar 1954.

vi. Ellen Douglas, born 5 May 1880, Chesterfield, Chesterfield, South Carolina; married James Preston Brantley; died 3 Mar 1916, Chesterfield, Chesterfield, South Carolina.

vii. Alice Douglas, born 7 Apr 1882, Chesterfield, Chesterfield, South Carolina; married James Robert New; died 28 Nov 1975, Chesterfield, Chesterfield, South Carolina.

Lucy Anne (Sellers) Douglas is my 1st Cousin 4X Removed.

____________________________

1. Find A Grave, Inc., Find A Grave, database and digital images, (http://www.findagrave.com : accessed 3 September 2009); Memorial page for Duncan D. Douglass; (4 September 1843–17 March 1914); Find a Grave memorial # 30005870, Citing Hurst Cemetery; Chesterfield, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, USA.

2. Find A Grave, Inc., Find A Grave, database, "Record, Lucy A. Sellers Douglas (7 September 1841–2 June 1919), Memorial # 30005895.

3. Ancestry, "Civil War Service Records" database, Military Service Records (https://www.fold3.com/ : accessed 3 March 2020), entry for Duncan D. Douglas, Pvt.; Company E 21st SC Infantry; Confederate.

4. 1870 U. S. Census, Chesterfield, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, population schedule, Court House, Chesterfield, South Carolina, Page 303B(Stamped), Line 24, Dwelling 318, Family 318, Household of D. [Duncan] DOUGLASS; digital images, Ancestry.com (http://www.ancestry.com : viewed 3 September 2009); citing National Archives Microfilm M593_1491.

5. Land Deed - Harriett SELLERS & Others to JOHN D. DOUGLASS DEED; 14 January 1870; Deed Book #4; Page(s) 401; Register of Deeds; Chesterfield, Chesterfield County, SC; 7 June 2017.

6. 1880 U. S. Census, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, population schedule, Court House, Chesterfield, South Carolina, enumeration district (ED) 005, Page: Penciled 4 & 5/312(Stamped); Line 50, Dwelling 39, Family 39, Household of D. D. DOUGLASS; digital image, Ancestry.com (http://www.ancestry.com : viewed 3 September 2009); citing National Archive Microfilm T9, Roll 1225.

7. 1900 U. S. Census, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, population schedule, Court House, Chesterfield, South Carolina, enumeration district (ED) 020, Page 4B/76B (Stamped), Line 79, Dwelling 68, Family 68, Household of Duncan D. DOUGLASS; digital images, Ancestry.com (http://ancestry.com : viewed 3 September 2009); citing National Archives Microfilm T623_1523.

8. 1910 U. S. Census, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, population schedule, Court House, Chesterfield, South Carolina, enumeration district (ED) 0036, Page 11B/114B (Stamped), Line 61, Dwelling 194, Family 196, Household of Carl Q. DOUGLASS; digital images, Ancestry.com (http://www.ancestry.com : viewed 3 September 2009); citing National Archives Microfilm T624, Roll 1455.

Marriage of Lillie Mae Sellers

Lillie Mae Sellers was borne about 1872 in Henderson County, Tennessee. Her Mother, Arminda Bell (Starns) Sellers, second wife of James Calhoun Sellers, died shortly after her birth. James Calhoun Sellers married for a 3rd time to Elizabeth Jane Manley. About this same time, the father of Arminda Bell (Starns) Sellers and Lillie Mae’s grandfather also passed away. His death resulted in the following Madison County Court Document transcribed here:

To the County Court of Madison County, Tenn.

Your petitioner would respectfully represent that his daughter L. M. [Lillie Mae] Sellers aged about 8 years and John Starns a Stepson of your Petitioner aged over 20 years are entitled to a legacy from the estate of James Montgomery dec’d amounting to about the sum of $12.50 each which to reduce to <illegible> render it necessary that Said minor children have a Guardian appointed for them. Your petitioner therefore prays the Court to appoint him their Guardian and he will ever pray &c. this 1^st Aug 1881.

Sworn to Subscribed}                                            J. C. Sellers

Before me Aug 1st 1881}

E. A. Clark}

Clk}

By the Court

August 1st 1881

A. L. Rogers

Note: This document and the 1880 Census are the only documents found proving the age of Lillie Mae Sellers.

Sometime after this action, James Calhoun Sellers moved his family to Fannin County, Texas. There on 21 October 1894, Lillie Mae Sellers, age 22, married William M. Witt, age unknown. This marriage is the end of the line for information on William M. Witt and Lillie Mae Sellers with one exception. On 8 November 1899,  L. M. Witt was named in a Land Deed forcing the sale of  48 acres of Land. (Deed Book 70, Page 573-575).

Partial Transcript

    Know all men by these presents, that whereas, by virtue of a certain Order of Sale issued out of the District Court of the County of Fannin in favor of Wills and Smith vs M. A. Sellers and L. M. Witt on certain Judgment and Decree of Sale, rendered on the 15th day of August 1899, and directed and delivered to me as Sheriff of Fannin County, commanding me to seize and sell the premises described in said Order of Sale, I, W. W. Ridling, Sheriff as aforesaid, did, upon the 6th day of  October 1899...

Marriage Licensee for Mr. Wm. M. Witt to Miss Lillie Sellers

NO RECORD beyond this 8 November 1899 Land Deed has been found for William M. Witt or his wife Lillie Mae Sellers.

There are over 100 trees on-line saying that the 8 children borne to William Wayne Witt/Whitt and his wife Lillie Lee WHITE are the children of William M. WITT and Lillie Mae SELLERS. REMEMBER THIS WHEN YOU COPY INFORMATION FROM ON-LINE. 

If you have information about Lillie Mae Sellers Witt I would love to hear from you.

Lillie Mae Sellers is the Granddaughter of Noah Sellers and Timney Ellen Parsons.  

Lillie Mae Sellers Witt is my 2nd Cousin 2X Removed.

______________

Special thanks to Lou P. and Deborah K. for their assistance in obtaining information contain within this blog post.

[1] 1880 U. S. Census, Madison County, Tennessee, population schedule, District 14, Madison County, Tennessee, enumeration district (ED) 098, Page: 308D (stamped); Line 1, Dwelling NL, Family 263, Household of Noah SELLERS; digital images, Ancestry.com (http://www.ancestry.com : viewed 2 January 2014); citing National Archives Microfilm T9_Roll 1270.

[2] Land Deed - Forced Sale of Land -- Fannin County, Texas 1899; 8 November 1899; Deed Book #70; Page(s) 573-574; Register of Deeds; Bonham, Fannin County, Texas; 21 April 2014.  

[3] "Texas, Marriages, 1837-1973," index, FamilySearch (https://familysearch.org/pal:/MM9.1.1/FX3R-DB7 : accessed 25 Apr 2014), William M. Witt and Lillie Sellars, 21 Oct 1894; citing , Fannin, Texas, , reference 2:2CMKK2G; FHL microfilm 1293831.

It‘s Family Time~The Calvin T. Eddins Family

Calvin T. Eddins was born in Feb 1820 in Chesterfield, Chesterfield, South Carolina. He appeared in the census in 1850 in Wilcox, Alabama. He died between 1850 and 1860 in Butler County, Alabama.

Calvin T. Eddins and Lucy Ruth Dailey were married on 23 Dec 1846 in Monroe, Alabama. Lucy Ruth Dailey, daughter of Alexander Dailey and Elizabeth [LNU], was born about 1827. We know she died before 1860 at the age of 33. The three children can be found with their grandparents, Alexander & Elizabeth Dailey in the 1860 Census for Monroe County, Alabama. 

Calvin T. Eddins and Lucy Ruth Dailey had the following children:

        i.    Elizabeth Eddins was born about 1847.
         ii.    William Eddins was born about 1848.
         iii.    George Wilson Eddins, born 5 May 1855; died 1 Feb 1897.

Calvin T. Eddins is my 1st Cousin 4 Times Removed.

_____________________________

1. Find A Grave, Inc., Find A Grave, database and digital images, (http://www.findagrave.com : accessed  6 May 2019); Memorial page for Calvin T. Eddins; (1820–1850); Find a Grave memorial # 115090844, Citing Eddins/Dees Family Cemetery; Mount Olive, Butler County, Alabama, USA.
2. 1850 U. S. Census, Wilcox County, Alabama, population schedule, Wilcox, Alabama, Page: 404A(stamped); Line 2, Dwelling 882, Family 882, Household of Calvin EDINGS; digital images, Ancestry.com (http://www.ancestry.com : viewed 6 May 2019); citing  National Archives Microfilm M432 Roll 16.
3. Find A Grave, Inc., Find A Grave, database, "Record, Calvin T. Eddins (1820–1850), Memorial # 115090844.
4. "Alabama Marriages, 1816-1942," database, Ancestry (http://www.ancestry.com : viewed 6 May 2019), Marriage: Calvin S. Edins & Ruthy Daily; FHL Film Number: 1289610 V. A-B.
5. 1860 U. S. Census, Monroe County, Alabama, population schedule, , ; digital images, Ancestry.com (http://www.ancestry.com : accessed ); citing  National Archives Microfilm M653 Roll 18.

Veterans Day 2021-Remembering Willie B. Johns

Pvt. Willie B. Johns

b. 7 April 1919

d. 19 July 1989

Willie Benjamin Johns, borne 7 April 1919 was the son of Julius Johns and Mary Catherine “Mamie” Brock.  Willie was a married man with one son, Willie David, when war was declared in 1941.

On 15 May 1943, Willie enlisted at Fort Jackson, South Carolina and was assigned Army Serial Number#34655672. His enlistment shows that the Enlistment [was] for the duration of the War or other emergency, plus six months, subject to the discretion of the President or otherwise according to law.  

While in the Army, Willie served as a cook for his unit. His unit participated in one of the last major battles of World War II – The Battle of the Bulge. 

The Battle of the Bulge, also known as the Ardennes Counteroffensive, was a major German offensive campaign on the Western Front during World War II which took place from 16 December 1944 to 25 January 1945. Wikipedia

The War in the European Theater ended on 2 September 1945. But, do remember that on August 14, 1945, the Japanese had surrendered, effectively ending World War II.

As a teenager I spent some wonderful times on “Hinson Hill” with my Uncle Willie and Aunt Ruby and their children, my cousins. 

Willie Johns is my Mother’s brother and was always known to me as Uncle Willie.

It’s Family Time~Colon & Amanda Campbell Family

Amanda E. Previtte was born on 19 May 1898 in Chesterfield, South Carolina.  She was a daughter 

of James Thomas Previtte and Mary Hulda Davis. She had 7 siblings; 3 sisters and 4 brothers.

At age 15, Amanda and Colon Campbell were married on 4 August 1912 in Wadesboro, Anson County, North Carolina.

Colon Douglas Campbell Sr., son of Horry Franklin Campbell and Nancy Ardelia Davis, was born on 28 Feb 1890 in Chesterfield, South Carolina. 

Colon Douglas Campbell and Amanda E. Previtte had the following child:

    i.     Leo Wilson Campbell, born 9 Aug 1914, Chesterfield, Chesterfield, South Carolina; married Mabel Smith Gualtney; married Naomi Gibson; died 5 Jul 1970, Chesterfield, Chesterfield, South Carolina, United States.

Sadly on 15 Feb 1922, at the age of 23 Amanda, also known as Mandy, suffered an epileptic seizure which took her life. She was buried at Zoar UMC Cemetery on 16 Feb 1922 in Chesterfield County. Her son Leo was just past his 7th birthday.

After the loss of Amanda and with a small child to care for Colon married a young lady known as Lessie Eunice Davis on 19 January 1929. Lessie Eunice was a daughter of John Robert "Bobby" Davis, Sr. and his wife, Mary Jane "Mamie" Hunt.

Amanda E. Previtte Campbell is my 1st Cousin Twice Removed.

 

_______________________________

1. Find A Grave, Inc., Find A Grave, database and digital images, (http://www.findagrave.com : accessed  11 January 2016); Memorial page for Amanda "Mandy" Previtte Campbell; (19 May 1899–15 February 1922); Find a Grave memorial #100351367, Citing Zoar United Methodist Church Cemetery; Brocks Mill, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, USA.

2. 1900 U. S. Census, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, population schedule, Court House, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, enumeration district (ED) 21, Page: 107, Line 42, Dwelling 426, Family 433, Household of James T. PRIVETT; digital images, Ancestry.com (http://ancestry.com : viewed 6 June 2012); citing National Archives Microfilm T623_1523.

3. 1910 U. S. Census, Anson County, North Carolina, population schedule, , ; digital image, Ancestry.com (http://www.ancestry.com : accessed ); citing National Archives Microfilm T624, Roll 1096.

4. 1920 U. S. Census, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, population schedule, Court House, Chesterfield, South Carolina, enumeration district (ED) 40, Page: 11A/167 (stamped); Line 8, Dwelling 195, Family 193, Colon D. CAMPBELL; digital images, Ancestry.com (http://ancestry.com : viewed 7 September 2014); citing National Archives Microfilm T625_1690.

5. South Carolina, Death Records, 1821-1961,  Images. Ancestry, (https://www.ancestry.com:  11 January 2016), South Carolina, Death Records, 1821-1961, Columbia, Richland County, South Carolina, Amanda E Campbell; Certificate number 2077, 15 February 1922.

6. James C. Pigg, Chesterfield County Cemetery Survey; Chesterfield County Genealogical Services, 1995, page 831. Tombstone of Amanda Previtte "Mandy" Campbell; 19 May 1899–15 February 1922, Zoar UMC Cemetery, Chesterfield County, South Carolina.

7. "Index to North Carolina Marriage Bonds, 1741-2011," database, Ancestry (http://www.ancestry.com : viewed 11 January 2016), Colon D. Campbel & Amanda Privett; North Carolina Division of Archives and History, 1977; Marriage Date: 4 Aug 1912.

8. Colon Douglass Campbell, death certificate 63 001837 (Death Date: 2 Feb 1963), Vital Records, Department of Health and Environmental Control, Columbia, Richland County, South Carolina.

9. Find A Grave, Inc., Find A Grave, database, "Record, Colon D. Campbell (28 February 1890–2 February 1963), Memorial #115384865.

Proof Noah Sellers Married Timney Parsons

In most of the Sothern States finding proof of marriage before the 1900’s can be a daunting task. Over the years I have resorted to browsing and reading Land Deeds, in many cases, to try to determine who an individual married. Case in point is a North Carolina Land Deed between Noah Sellers and Roderick Shaw.

This particular land deed contains this very informative sentence:

...It being the undivided distributive share of Timney the wife of the said Noah Sellers in and of all the Lands of which her Father Abbington Parsons died seized and possessed Situate lying and being as aforesaid in Anson County in the State of North Carolina...

Noah Sellers & Wife to Roderick Shaw & S. Ricketts

This Indenture made this ____ day of September in the year of our Lord 1846 Between Noah sellers & Timney his wife of the one part and  Roderick Shaw of the other part all of the sate of South Carolina in Chesterfield district. Witnesseth that the said Noah sellers & Timney his wife for and in consideration of the sum of twenty five dollars to them in hand paid by the said  Roderick Shaw before the Signing and Sealing of these presents the receipts and payments whereof is hereby acknowledged have bargained sold conveyed and confirmed and by these presents do bargain sell convey and confirm to the said  Roderick Shaw his heirs and afsigns a certain piece or parcel of Land lying and being in the County of Anson in the State of North Carolina adjoining the South Carolina line and adjoining the Lands of James Parsons and others, it being the undivided distributive share of Timney the wife of the said Noah Sellers in and of all the Lands of which her Father Abbington Parsons died seized and possessed Situate lying and being as aforesaid in Anson County in the State of North Carolina which distributive share is supposed to be about 30 acres more or less  to have and to hold unto the said Roderick Shaw his heirs, Administrators Executors & afsigns forever & the said Noah Sellers & his wife Timney Sellers doth hereby convent and agree to and with the said Roderick Shaw his heirs and afsigned and doth warrant Secure and forever defend the rights, title, Interest and claim in of & to said Land unto the said Roderick Shaw his heirs and afsigns against themselves their heirs Executors Administrators and afsignd also against the lawful claim or claims of any and all persons whomsoever. In witnefs whereof the said Noah Sellers & his wife Timney have hereunto set their hands and Seals the year and date first above written Signed Sealed  and delivered in presence of us
James R. Tindle                      Noah Sellers {Seal}
Richmond White                    Timney Sellers {Seal}

State of North Carolina} July Term 1851 Then the Execution of this Deed was duly proven
Anson County}  in open court by James R. Tindle and ordered to be Registered.
                                               N. D. Boggan
I afsign my interest in the within Title to Mifs Sarah Ricketts.
                                              R. Shaw

Noah and Timney Parson Sellers are my 2nd Great Grand Uncle and Aunt. 

__________________

[1] Land Deed - Noah Sellers & Wife to Roderick Shaw & To S. Ricketts; September 1846; Deed Book #13; Page(s) 465; Register of Deeds; Wadesboro, Anson County, North Carolina; 3 October 2021.

Wordless Wednesday~First Flight, Kitty Hawk, NC

Photo Courtesy of Robin Purvis

Photo Courtesy of Robin Purvis

Photo Courtesy of Robin Purvis