Military Monday: James K. Parker

The military service of this young solder is a sad story. James K. Parker, is the son of George A. Parker and his wife Hawley Lee. James was born about 1838. About 1859 or early 1860, when James was about 21-22 years old he married Nancy who was just barely 16 years of age. They are enumerated in the 1860 Chesterfield County Population Census. [1] James is listed as age 23 and Nancy is listed as age 16. I have written about this couple before which can be found here; Nancy is believed to be Nancy Davis, daughter of Michael Davis and Hulda Rivers.

In December 1860, South Carolina became the first state to succeed from the union and in January 1861, Cadets from Fort Sumter fired on a civilian merchant ship Star of the West resulting in what was to be the start of the Civil War.  

The War started out being a War of Volunteers but later turn to conscription due to the dwindling numbers of volunteers. James K. Parker, age 23, volunteered and was enlisted by Capt. B. T Davis (my 1^st Cousin 4 times removed) on 29 December 1861. Image #2 in his military service record shows that he enlisted for 12 months. Image 3, the final image in his file is a Muster Roll dated March-April 1862. This Muster Roll shows that James enlisted 8 January in Chesterfield by Capt. B. T. Davis and the duration has changed from 12 months to the entire War. [2]

The next paragraph shows that he was last paid on February 28, 186 ; though the year is not filled in, we know it was 28 February 1861.

The next section is a real shocker. It showed that James K. Parker died 14 April 1862, Hospital, 21^st Regt' SCV. Surviving James is his Widow Nancy Parker back home. 

http://www.fold3.com/image/#20|83356832

The 3 pages of his military service record contain no additional information. We know that his body was returned home to Chesterfield because James K. Parker is buried in the Davis Family Cemetery, Chesterfield County, South Carolina.  [3]

Tombstone Photo courtesy of Julious Burr

Additional information about James K. Parker was found in the book "Broken Fortunes" by Randolph W. Kirkland, Jr., page 271[4]

Parker, James K.

Private

Co. E, 21^st SCVI

Died 04/14/62, Georgetown, SC, DOD (died of disease)

Sources: PP, HAG

PP = Paths to the Past. Confederate death and burial lists compiles in a number of bound pamphlets by the Lauderdale County (Mississippi) Department of Archives and History. These are largely based on the Watkins compilation, with added material derived from local research. Copies in the collections of the South Carolina Historical Society.

HAG = Johnson Hagood, Memoirs of the War of Secession (Columbia, S.C.: The State Company, 1910; repr., Camden, S.C.: J.J. Fox, 1989)

I have a copy of Hagood's Memories [5]so let's take a look. Hagood's book is indexed but individual soldiers are not indexed. Since I am well familiar with this book I know that Hagood has a Section on the 21^st South Carolina Volunteers. A roster of the men of Company E, 21^st SCVI begins on page 402. James Parker is listed a member of Co. E, 21^st SCVI in Column 3 on page 403. No other information about James was found within the book. 

I have one additional document relating to James K. Parker. In the Probate Judge office, Chesterfield Courthouse, there is a land deed book called the "Burnt Book."  The Burnt Book was recovered from the smoldering Courthouse flames after Gen Sherman forces burnt it to the ground in March 1865. The Courthouse was not rebuilt until 1884.

Page 22 of "The Burnt Book" contains remnants of a land deed between George A. Parker to his son James K. Parker, dated February 1861, in the 85th year of our sovereignty. [6]

Chesterfield County, SC; Burnt Book, page 22

  

The above document provides a historic visual picture of why genealogy research pre-Civil war in Chesterfield County, South Carolina is challenging and often frustrating.  

For those of you out there with plenty of records to review I envy you. For the Certified Genealogist (CG)  I ponder how you would proceed in this environment using the FAN principle.  I would love your feedback.

I can be reached by e-mail

---

[1] 1860 U. S. Census, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, population schedule, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, Page: 125; Line 14, Dwelling 449, Family 448, Jas. K. PARKER Household; digital images, Ancestry.com (http://www.ancestry.com : viewed 7 July 2012); citing National Archives Microfilm M653_1217.

[2] Ancestry, "Civil War Service Records" database, Military Service Records (http://www.fold3.com/ : accessed 8 July 2012), entry for J. K. PARKER (James K.), Corporal; Co. E, 21st SC V Infantry; Confederate.

[3] Jim Tipton, Find A Grave, digital image, http://www.findagrave.com; Headstone for Corp James K. Parker; (1838–14 April 1862); Memorial # 45433656; Record of the Davis Cemetery; Chesterfield, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, USA; Accessed on 8 July 2012.

[4] Randolph W. Kirkland Jr., Broken Fortunes: South Carolina Soldiers, Sailors and Citizens Who Died in the Service of Their Country and State in the War for Southern Independence, 1861-1865 (Columbia, South Carolina: Univ of South Carolina, 1997), page 271.

[5] Johnson Hagood, Memoirs of the War of Succession (Camden, SC 29020: Jim Fox Books, 1997 (Reprint)), page 403.

[6] Land Deed - George A. Parker to James K. Parker Deed; February 1861; Deed Book #BURNT BOOK; Page(s) 22; Register of Deeds; Chesterfield, Chesterfield County, South Carolina; 5 July 1997.

Related articles

• Was Nancy Davis wife of James Ross married Previously (carolinafamilyroots.blogspot.com)

52 Ancestors: #16, Nancy J. Davis Ross

 

Amy Johnson Crow of No Story To Small has started a challenge of 52 Ancestors in 52 Weeks.
From her blog “The challenge: have one blog post each week devoted to a specific ancestor. It could be a story, a biography, a photograph, an outline of a research problem — anything that focuses on one ancestor. Not only should this get me blogging more, but also to take a deeper look at some of the people in my family tree.”
 
The focus of my blog posting today is Nancy J. Davis Ross. Nancy is my 2nd Great Grand Aunt. Nancy is an enigma that refuses to relinquish her secrets.  
 
Nancy was born 25 June 1844, the fifth child of nine to Michael Davis and Hulda Rivers. A scarcity of records due to burning of the Courthouse and its  records during the Civil War presents a challenge for any researcher or genealogists.^{1 2}   

Publication of misinformation that seems to grow exponentially presents another problem. For instance:

Info: Harry Alexander Davis in his book "The Davis Family in Wales and America" made the following statement: "Nancy J. b 1845 md 1865 David Richard son of Eliza Davis and Benjamin Teal, 1st cousins: had 2 children in 1870." ³

This is not TRUE.

David Richard son of Eliza Davis and Benjamin Teal, did in fact marry Nancy J. Davis. The Nancy J. Davis that he married was born 17 March 1839 and was the daughter of John Calvin Davis and Charlotte Hurst. John Calvin is the uncle of Nancy J. Davis, b. 25 Jun 1844 to Michael Davis and Hulda Rivers. Nancy, b. 25 Jun 1844 married James Ross abt 1870.^{4 5}

Nancy’s late marriage is another puzzle. I don’t believe a young lady waited until she was 26 years old to marry.

Some researcher say NANCY J. DAVIS was married to GEORGE PARKER had 1 son----- d. young. Before marrying (M #2) 17 Jul 1870, James Ross. B abt. 1850. ⁶

This is not true; but may be partially right.

There are two PARKER'S listed in the 1860 Census with wives named NANCY. George A. PARKER, age 24 and his wife Nancy PARKER, age 27 and James K. Parker, age 23 and his wife Nancy PARKER, age 16.

I believe the 16-year of wife of James K. Parker was in fact Nancy J. DAVIS PARKER, b. 25 June 1844. James K. PARKER, Private, Co. E. 21st SC Volunteers, Infantry died 14 April 1862 at Georgetown, SC.

I submit these three comments as circumstantial evidence that Nancy was twice married;
1) During the Civil War, one deed book was snatched from the pile of books burned by Gen. Sherman’s army in March 1865. That book is on file in the Probate office of the Chesterfield County Courthouse. Within that book is a burnt land deed between George A. Parker to James K. Parker dated February 1861, named within the Deed is Nancy Parker. ⁷
 

2) Some researcher say NANCY J. DAVIS was married to GEORGE PARKER had 1 son----- d. young. Before marrying (M #2) 17 Jul 1870, James Ross. B abt. 1850. This is not true; but may be partially right. I believe she married a PARKER; not George but James K. Parker.

3) Nancy is not listed in her parents household in 1860 Chesterfield Census.

1860 CENSUS: Chesterfield County, South Carolina; Roll: M653_1217;  Image: 191; Family History Library Film: 805217; Page 94, Line 1, Dwelling/Family 1/1. Michael DAVIS, Farmer, age 54, born SC; Hulda DAVIS, Wife, age 45, born SC; William DAVIS, Son, age 26, born SC; Sarah DAVIS, Daughter, age 21, born SC; Thomas DAVIS, Son, age 20, born SC; Charles DAVIS, Son, age 18, born SC; Elisha DAVIS, Son, age 12, born SC; Jane DAVIS, Daughter, age 10, born SC; Mary Eliza DAVIS, Daughter, age 07, born SC. Film #0805217. Living with Michael & Hulda is Mary DAVIS, age 50 [Michael's sister].

Nancy is not with her parents confirming my theory that she is married and based on her age and the land deed is the Nancy Parker listed in James K. Parker household. 

1860 CENSUS: Chesterfield County, South Carolina; Roll: M653_1217;Image: 254; Family History Library Film: 805217, Page: 125; Line 14, Dwelling 449, Family 448; Jas. K. PARKER, age 23, Labourer, Born in SC; Nancy PARKER, age 16, Born in SC and Elizabeth BRITT, age 20 Born in SC.

Nancy absence for her parents household in 1860, her birth year of 1844 (age 6 in 1850 census) and age 16 in the household of James K. Parker in 1860  are all strong circumstantial evidence  that she was married.

Nancy’s obituary provides no information on a previous marriage. 

Obituary - Mrs. James Ross died at her home on Green Street last Tuesday morning at 6:30 o'clock after a long illness, which she had borne with Christian resignation. Mrs. Ross had attained the age of 75 years and had been a life long member of Zoar church. Before her marriage she was Miss Nancy Davis, and was raised in the Zoar section. She is survived by her husband and a large family connection. The body was laid to rest in the Zoar cemetery Wednesday afternoon. Many beautiful floral tributes attested the love and esteem in which this good woman was held by her friends. ⁸

Nancy D. Ross died 5 November 1918 and was buried beside her husband in Zoar United Methodist Church Cemetery, Chesterfield, South Carolina. ⁹

If you have any information on Nancy J. Davis and her marriage please contact me by e-mail.










_______________________
[1] James C. Pigg, Chesterfield County Cemetery Survey; Chesterfield County Genealogical Services, 1995, page 849. Tombstone of Nancy Davis ROSS; 25 June 1844–5 November 1918, Zoar United Methodist Church Cemetery, Chesterfield County, South Carolina.
[2] 1850 U. S. Census, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, population schedule, Chesterfield, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, enumeration district (ED) No ED, Page 179B, Line 3, Dwelling/Family 1240/1240, Household of Michael DAVIS; digital images, Ancestry.com (http://www.ancestry.com : viewed 21 July 2011); citing National Archives Microfilm M432 Roll 851.
[3] Harry Alexander Davis, The Davis Family (Davies and David) in Wales and America: genealogy of Morgan David of Pennsylvania (Washington, D.C.: n.p., 1927), page 222.
[4] 1850 U S Census, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, population schedule, Chesterfield, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, Page 178A, Line 19, Dwelling 1221, Family 1221, Household of John C. DAVIS; digital images, Ancestry.com (http://www.ancestry.com : viewed 11 June 2011); citing National Archives Microfilm M432 Roll 851.
[5] 1900 U. S. Census, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, population schedule, Court House, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, enumeration district (ED) #21, Page 108B, Line 75, Dwelling 455, Family 463, .Household of James ROSS; digital images, Ancestry.com (http://ancestry.com : viewed 28 August 2011); citing National Archives Microfilm T623_Roll: 1523.
[6] Minnie Sanders Rivers, A Rivers Family (Chesterfield, South Carolina: self-Published, 1926), Item 95.
[7] Land Deed - George A. Parker to James K. Parker Deed; February 1861; Deed Book #BURNT BOOK; Page(s) 22; Register of Deeds; Chesterfield, Chesterfield County, South Carolina; 5 July 1997.
[8] Mrs. James Ross obituary, The Chesterfield Advertiser, Chesterfield, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, 7 November 1918, page 1, col. 3:
[9] James C. Pigg, Chesterfield County Cemetery Survey; Chesterfield County Genealogical Services, 1995, page 849. Tombstone of Nancy Davis ROSS; 25 June 1844–5 November 1918, Zoar United Methodist Church Cemetery, Chesterfield County, South Carolina.

Was Nancy Davis wife of James Ross married Previously

Was Nancy J. Davis, born 25 June 1844, daughter of Michael Davis and Hulda Rivers previously married before her marriage to James Ross at age 26?

Harry Alexander Davis in his book "The Davis Family in Wales and America" made the following statement: "Nancy J. b 1845 md 1865 David Richard son of Eliza Davis and Benjamin Teal, 1st cousins: had 2 children in 1870. Page 222." 

Minnie Sanders Rivers in her genealogy of the Rivers Family written in 1927 made this statement in her handwritten booklet:

65. Nancy; b. June 25, 1844; d. Nov 5, 1918; m(1) Geo. Parker. Had 1 son_______, d. young. M(2) July 17, 1870 James Ross; b. abt 1850.

These two statements are not entirely TRUE. But, it does suggest that Nancy Davis born June 25,  1844 was married twice.

Both of these authors are talking about the same person and they each reached a different conclusion and they both are WRONG. Mrs. Rivers is closer to what I believe the truth is. 

Do keep in mind that even though Nancy had died in 1918; James Ross was still living in 1927 when Mrs Rivers published her genealogy booklet.

There is only one known husband for Nancy and that was James Ross and they had no children. But, based on research I have done, there is circumstantial evidence that she was married twice and that her first husband was James K. Parker.

There are two PARKER'S listed in the 1860 Census with wives named NANCY. George A. PARKER, age 24 and his wife Nancy PARKER, age 27 and James K. PARKER, age 23 and his wife Nancy PARKER, age 16.
While the above statement is not entirely true, I believe it does have merit and is partially correct. Based on my research, I believe the 16-year of wife of James K. PARKER was in fact Nancy J. DAVIS PARKER, b. 25 June 1844.

David Richard son of Eliza Davis and Benjamin Teal, did in fact married Nancy J. Davis. The Nancy J. Davis that he married was born 17 March 1839 and was the daughter of John Calvin Davis and Charlotte Hurst. John Calvin is the uncle of Nancy J. Davis, b. 25 Jun 1844 to Michael Davis and Hulda Rivers.

Nancy J. Davis, b. 25 Jun 1844 is believed to have married James K. Parker who died in 1862 in the Civil War and after the War; she married James Ross abt 1870. No source has been found, as of today, for the exact married of July 17, 1870 to James Ross.

First, there is the 1850 & 1860 Census for Michael Davis & Hulda Rivers, parents of Nancy J. Davis, born 25 June 1844.

1850 CENSUS: Chesterfield, Chesterfield County, South Carolina; Roll: M432_851; Image: 363; Page 179B, Line 3, Dwelling/Family 1240/1240. Michael DAVIS, age 43, Farmer, born in SC; Huldy DAVIS, Wife, age 33, born SC; William A. DAVIS, Son, age 15, born SC; Sarah A. DAVIS, Daughter, age 11, born SC; Elizabeth DAVIS, Daughter, age 9, born in SC; Thomas F. DAVIS, Son, age 8, born SC; Nancy DAVIS, Daughter, age 5, born in SC; Charley W. DAVIS, Son, age 3, born SC and Elisha B. DAVIS, Son, age 1, born SC;  Film #0444814.

Nancy, who is only 5 is at home with her parents.

1860 CENSUS: Chesterfield County, South Carolina; Roll: M653_1217; Image: 191; Family History Library Film: 805217; Page 94, Line 1, Dwelling/Family 1/1. Michael DAVIS, Farmer, age 54, born SC; Hulda DAVIS, Wife, age 45, born SC; William DAVIS, Son, age 26, born SC; Sarah DAVIS, Daughter, age 21, born SC; Thomas DAVIS, Son, age 20, born SC; Charles DAVIS, Son, age 18, born SC; Elisha DAVIS, Son, age 12, born SC; Jane DAVIS, Daughter, age 10, born SC; Mary Eliza DAVIS, Daughter, age 07, born SC. Film #0805217. Living with Michael & Hulda is Mary DAVIS, age 50 [Michael's sister].

In 1860, Nancy J. Davis would have been approximately 16 years old. She is not in the household of her parents, thus giving some credence to the suggestion that she has married.

Next we have the 1860 Census for James K. Parker

1860 CENSUS: Chesterfield County, South Carolina; Roll: M653_1217;Image: 254; Family History Library Film: 805217, Page: 125; Line14, Dwelling 449, Family 448; Jas. K. PARKER, age 23, Laborer, born in SC; Nancy PARKER, age 16, born in SC and Elizabeth BRITT, age 20 Born in SC.

We can see here that his wife, Nancy Parker, age 16 matches the exact age of Michael & Hulda Davis daughter Nancy J. Davis.

James K. PARKER, age 23, enlisted into the Civil war on 21 December 1861 at Chesterfield, South Carolina. He was a Private in Co. E. 21st SC Volunteers, Infantry. He died 14 April 1862 at Georgetown, SC.

Nancy J. Davis Ross obituary makes no reference to any husband other than James Ross.

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

Was Nancy J. Davis daughter of Michael and Hulda Rivers married twice; First to James K. Parker and after his death to James Ross.

If you have any information on Nancy J. Davis, born 25 June 1844; died 5 Nov 1918; please contact me by e-mail.



________________________________
[1]  Harry Alexander Davis, The Davis Family (Davies and David) in Wales and America: genealogy of Morgan David of Pennsylvania (Washington, D.C.: n.p., 1927), page 222.
[2] 1850 U. S. Census, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, population schedule, Chesterfield, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, enumeration district (ED) No ED, Page 179B, Line 3, Dwelling/Family 1240/1240, Household of Michael DAVIS; digital images, Ancestry.com (http://www.ancestry.com : viewed 21 July 2011); citing National Archives Microfilm M432 Roll 851.
[3] ] James C. Pigg, "Obituaries from the Chesterfield Advertiser 1892-1926, Chesterfield County, SC" (Tega Cay, SC, Self-published, 2001. Mrs. James Ross obituary, The Chesterfield Advertiser, Chesterfield, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, 7 November 1918, page 1, col. 3:.

James Ross Lost Brothers - Found

Lost Brothers - Found

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

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

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

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

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

JAMES ROSS FINDS

             LONG LOST BROTHER

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

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

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

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

It was a happy circumstance that brought them together again.

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

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

____________________________________

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

        8. Ibid.

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

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

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

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

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

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

        15. Ibid.

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

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

This is not TRUE.

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

Another misconception and incorrect information:

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

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

Tombstone Tuesday–James & Nancy Ross

James Ross was born on 26 Jun 1850 in Chesterfield, Chesterfield, South Carolina. He died on 6 Dec 1945 at the age of 95 in Darlington County, South Carolina.[1] He was buried on 7 Dec 1945 at Zoar United Methodist Church Cemetery in Chesterfield, Chesterfield, South Carolina.[2]
James Ross and Nancy J. Davis were married on abt 1870 in Chesterfield, Chesterfield, South Carolina. Nancy J. Davis, daughter of Michael Davis and Hulda Rivers, was born on 25 Jun 1844 in Chesterfield County, South Carolina.[3] [4] [5] [6] [7] [8] [9] She died on 5 Nov 1918 at the age of 74 in Chesterfield, Chesterfield, South Carolina.[10] Nancy was buried on 6 Nov 1918 in Chesterfield, Chesterfield, South Carolina.[11] [12] [13]
James Ross and Nancy J. Davis did not have any children.
.
 

 
Nancy Davis Ross is my second great grandaunt. She is a younger sister to my second great grandmother Elizabeth Davis Previtte. 

And finally, do not accept one document as the truth , back it up with 2 or more documents. Case in point, James Ross tombstone above clearly shows that he died in 1946. However, his Florence County SC Death Certificate shows his death date as 6 December 1945.

---

[1] James Ross, death certificate #013745 (6 December 1945), Vital Records, Department of Health and Environmental Control, Columbia, Richland County, South Carolina.
2] Ibid.
[3] James C. Pigg, Chesterfield County Cemetery Survey; Chesterfield County Genealogical Services, 1995, page 849. Tombstone of Nancy Davis ROSS; 25 June 1844–5 November 1918, Zoar United Methodist Church Cemetery, Chesterfield County, South Carolina.
[4] 1850 U. S. Census, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, population schedule, Chesterfield, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, enumeration district (ED) No ED, Page 179B, Line 3, Dwelling/Family 1240/1240, Household of Michael DAVIS; digital images, Ancestry.com (http://www.ancestry.com : viewed 21 July 2011); citing National Archives Microfilm M432 Roll 851.
[5] 1860 U. S. Census, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, population schedule, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, Page: 125; Line 14, Dwelling 449, Family 448, Household of Jas. K. PARKER; digital images, Ancestry.com (http://www.ancestry.com : viewed 19 July 2012); citing National Archives Microfilm M653_1217.
[6] 1870 U. S. Census, Chesterfield, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, Population Schedule, Court House, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, Page: 307A; Line 5, Dwelling 373, Family 373, Household of J. ROSS.
[7] 1880 U. S. Census, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, Population Schedule, Court House, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, ED #5, Page 326B; Line 36, Dwelling 289, Family 289, Household of James ROSS.
[8] 1900 U. S. Census, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, population schedule, Court House, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, ED #21, Page 108B, Line 75, Dwelling 455, Family 463, .Household of James ROSS.
[9] 1910 U. S. Census, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, population schedule, Court House, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, ED #0036, Page 105, Line 33, Dwelling 30, Family 31, Household of James ROSS.
[10] James C. Pigg, Chesterfield County Cemetery Survey, Chesterfield County Genealogical Services, 1995, Tombstone, Zoar United Methodist Church Cemetery as recorded in "Chesterfield County, South Carolina Cemetery Survey", Page 849, By James C. Pigg, Published by Chesterfield County Genealogical Services, Copyright 1995. [Nancy Davis ROSS, Jun 25, 1844 - Nov 5, 1918].
[11] Ibid.
[12] Mrs. James Ross obituary, The Chesterfield Advertiser, Chesterfield, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, 7 November 1918, page 1, col. 3:.
Obituary - Mrs. James Ross, The Chesterfield Advertiser, November 7, 1918, page 1, col. 3: Mrs. James Ross died at her home on Green Street last Tuesday morning at 6:30 o'clock after a long illness, which she had borne with Christian resignation. Mrs. Ross had attained the age of 75 years and had been a lifelong member of Zoar church. Before her marriage she was Miss Nancy Davis, and was raised in the Zoar section. She is survived by her husband and a large family connection. The body was laid to rest in the Zoar cemetery Wednesday afternoon. Many beautiful floral tributes attested the love and esteem in which this good woman was held by her friends.[SOURCE: James C. Pigg, "Obituaries from the Chesterfield Advertiser 1892-1926, Chesterfield County, SC" (Tega Cay, SC, Self-published, 2001].
[13] Harry Alexander Davis, The Davis Family (Davies and David) in Wales and America: genealogy of Morgan David of Pennsylvania (Washington, D.C.: n.p., 1927), page 222. Harry Alexander Davis in his book "The Davis Family in Wales and America" made the following statement: "Nancy J. b 1845 md 1865 David Richard son of Eliza Davis and Benjamin Teal, 1st cousins: had 2 children in 1870. Page 222." This is not TRUE.
David Richard son of Eliza Davis and Benjamin Teal did in fact marry Nancy J. Davis. The Nancy J. Davis that he married was born 17 March 1839 and was the daughter of John Calvin Davis and Charlotte Hurst. John Calvin is the uncle of Nancy J. Davis, b. 25 Jun 1844 to Michael Davis and Hulda Rivers. Nancy, b. 25 Jun 1884 is believed to have married James K. Parker who died in 1862 in the Civil War and after the War married James Ross abt 1870.

Amanuensis Monday~Land Deed from Father to Son - Mich Davis to E. B. Davis

Amanuensis Monday is a Web Blog theme started by blogger John Newmark. You can access his blog here.

His definition of Amanuensis is:
Amanuensis: A person employed to write what another dictates or to copy what has been written by another.

A full explanation of the Amanuensis Monday blog theme can be found here.

Today’s subject is a Land Deed from Father to Son - Mich Davis to E. B. Davis
Mich Davis to E. B. Davis Deed

Transcription: 
State of South Carolina}
Chesterfield County}
                              Know all men by these presents that I Michael Davis of the County of Chesterfield in the State aforesaid, for and in consideration of the sum of One hundred dollars to me in hand paid by E. B. Davis of the County and State aforesaid have granted,bargained, sold and released and by these presents do grant, bargain, sell and release unto the said E. B. Davis all that tract or parcel of land Situate lying and being in the County and State aforesaid on both sided of Abrams Creek, containing Fifty-five acres more or less. Reference to a deed from G. A. Parker to James K. Parker, and from Nancy Parker to me, will more fully appear**. Also one other tract or parcel of land situate lying and being in the County + State aforesaid, on the east side of Abrams Creek including the whole of the swamp to W. A. Davis Line containing Twenty Six acres more or less, Reference to an Old Grant to          Kilgore will more fully appear; Together with all and singular the rights, members, hereditaments and appurtenances to the said premises belonging or in anywise incident or appertaining To Have and to Hold all and singular the premises before mentioned unto the said E. B. Davis his heirs and assigns forever. And I do hereby bind myself, my heirs, Executors and administrators to warrant and forever defend the said premises unto the said E. B. Davis, his heirs and assigns against me and my heirs and (page 204) against all persons whomsoever lawfully claiming or to claim the same or any part thereof. Witness my hand and Seal this ninth day of December in the year of our Lord one thousand Eight hundred seventy one and in the 96th year of the Sovereignty and Independence of the United States of America.  
Signed, sealed and delivered}                                Michael X his mark Davis
In presence of}
E. N. Redfearn}
W. J. Hanna}
 
State of South Carolina}
Chesterfield County}
                              Personally appeared before me W. J. Hanna and made oath that he saw the within named Michael Davis, sign the within written Deed, for the uses and purposes therein mentioned and he and E. N. Redfearn witnessed the execution thereof.
Sworn to before me this}                                     W. J. Hanna
21th day of Jany 1873}
T. F. Mulloy}
Clk}
 
Auditors Office}
Chesterfield Co.}
                              Recorded Jan 21st  /73 in Sales Book A page 30
                                                                            T. L. Weston
                                                                                     A.C.C.

                                                   Recorded 21st Jany 1873
                                                   Origl. Deliv’d to E. B. Davis


Related Article:

https://carolinafamilyroots.blogspot.com/2012/07/military-monday-james-k-parker.html

This Land Deed is between father (Michael) and son (Elisha Blakely) whereby the father is selling his son 81 acres (2 tracts, 55 acres, and 26 acres) for the sum of $100 dollars. The deed is dated 9 Dec 1871; in February 1874, Elisha married Mary Jane “Molly” Eddins. 

Michael Davis is my 3rd Great Grandfather; his son Elisha Blakely Davis is my 2nd Great Grand Uncle.

I can be reached by e-mail






___________________
[1] Chesterfield County, South Carolina, Deed Book 4: Pages 203-204, Mich Davis to E. B. Davis Deed; 9 December 1871, Register of Deeds, Chesterfield, Chesterfield County, South Carolina.
** See related article

Wordless Wednesday~Davis Family Cemetery

L>R, Thomas Davis, Nancy Rivers Davis, Corp. James K. Parker (Red Band), John Rivers, Co. D, 6th SCI

Thomas Davis, Rev. Soldier	Nancy Rivers Davis	Corp. James K. Parker	James Rivers

FAMILY CEMETERIES

In the county where my ancestors lived are many family cemeteries. A lot of these cemeteries have become lost or completely abandon over the years. Some are known about but access to them is very restricted.

One such cemetery is that of my 4^th great grandparents – Thomas Davis and his wife Nancy Rivers Davis.  While I have known about this cemetery and have visited it in the past; it was not easy to access.  One problem is a lovely little reptile called the rattlesnake.  The other is a vine with bards that will rip you and your clothes to pieces. The area where Thomas Davis and his wife are buried was recently clear-cut making the cemetery accessible. So I paid my 4^th great grandparents another visit, this time taking my trusted GPS along for documenting the coordinates of the cemetery. The Cemetery is located at GPS coordinates N34 46 067', W 080 02 744'

There are 4 tombstones visible in the cemetery.

Davis Cemetery

They are:

Thomas Davis, b. 22 March 1760, d. 20 March 1845

Nancy Rivers Davis, b. 15 Dec 1767, d. 15 Dec 1853

John Rivers, Co. D, 6th SC CAV, CSA    

James K. Parker, Corp. Co. E, 21^st SC INF. [1837- Apr. 14, 1862]

His military record shows that James K. Parker enlisted 21 Dec 1861 and died Apr. 14, 1862. The 1860 Census for Chesterfield County shows that James was 23 years of age and married to Nancy, age 16.

The John Rivers buried here is most likely John B. Rivers whose record is shown below.

The dates on the tombstones for my 4^th great grandparents are wrong. Correct dates have been obtained from official documents and verified.

Thomas Davis, b. 22 March 1760, d. 20 March 1845

Thomas Davis Tombstone

NOTE: Thomas Davis middle name IS NOT "LLOYD". He has NO middle name.  Lloyd is the Capt. that he served under in the Revolutionary war. As stated above the dates (1748-1844) are wrong.

Nancy Rivers Davis, b. 15 Dec 1767, d. 15 Dec 1853

Nancy Rivers Davis Tombstone

The dates (1753-1846) on Nancy tombstone are also incorrect.

Aunts & Uncles~Elisha Blakely Davis: A Life in the Carolina Piedmont

The “Aunt & Uncle” series of biographical sketches are Artificial Intelligence (AI) compiled narratives of selected individuals from my Genealogical database.  The selected AI will used the RootsMagic Individual Summary from my Genealogical Software, Roots Magic. All genealogical data is my research material acquired over the past 46 years of research. Today's Biography of Elisha Blakely Davis (1848-1912) was compiled with the assistance of Claude Sonnett 4 and is entitled:

"Elisha Blakely Davis: A Life in the Carolina Piedmont"

Early Life and Family Background

Elisha Blakely Davis was born on June 27, 1848, in Chesterfield, South Carolina, to Michael Davis (1806-1888) and Hulda "Huldie" Rivers (1816-1881). He entered the world during a time of significant change in the American South, just over a decade before the outbreak of the Civil War.

Elisha grew up as the youngest of several siblings in the Davis household. The 1850 census shows him at about two years old, living with his parents and siblings including William A., Sarah A., Elizabeth, Thomas F., Nancy, and Charles W. Davis. His father Michael was a farmer, and the family was well-established in Chesterfield County, where they would remain for generations.

Growing Up in Chesterfield County

By 1860, when Elisha was about twelve years old, he was still living at home with his parents and siblings. This was a formative time in American history—the nation was on the brink of civil war, and life in rural South Carolina was about to change dramatically. As a young boy coming of age during the Civil War years, Elisha would have witnessed the upheaval that affected every Southern community.

Marriage and Family

On February 15, 1874, at the age of 25, Elisha married Mary Jane "Molly" Eddins (1854-1916) in Chesterfield, South Carolina. Mary Jane was the daughter of Joseph Columbus Eddins, Sr. & Matilda Ann Tice. Their union would prove to be a long and fruitful one, lasting until Elisha's death nearly four decades later.

Photo Courtesy of Donna Hodgman

Together, Elisha and Mary Jane raised a large family of ten children:

Joseph M. Davis (1874-1946)

Mary Huldah Davis (1876-1933) - named after Elisha's mother

Charles Davis (1877-1954)

William E. Davis (1878-1952)

Mary Ellen Davis (1879-1964)

James Thomas "Tom" Davis (1880-1968)

Alford Davis (1882-1883) - tragically died in infancy

Nancy Jane Davis (1883-1972)

Marion Fredrick Davis (1886-1963)

Sarah E. "Sally" Davis (1889-1984)

Nine of their ten children survived to adulthood—a relatively good outcome for the era, though the loss of baby Alford would have been deeply felt by the family.

Life as a Farmer and Landowner

Elisha followed in his father's footsteps as a farmer in Chesterfield County. The 1880 census captured the young family when Elisha was 32 years old, living with Mary Jane and their five young children at that time. By 1900, the census noted that Elisha and Mary Jane had been married for 26 years and had ten children, with nine still living.

Like many families in the rural South during this period, the Davis household was a working farm where everyone contributed. The children would have helped with planting, harvesting, and the countless daily tasks required to maintain a farm in the late 19th century.

Land Holdings

Elisha owned property inherited from his father Michael—two tracts totaling 81 acres in Chesterfield County. These lands were situated along Abrams Creek and represented the family's livelihood and legacy. The first tract contained about 55 acres lying on both sides of Abrams Creek, while the second tract contained about 26 acres on the east side of the creek, including swampland.

Later Years and Final Move

In 1910, at age 62, Elisha and Mary Jane were living in Red Bluff, Marlboro County, South Carolina—a move from their longtime home in Chesterfield County. Still living with them were three of their adult children: Joseph M. (age 35), Mary E. (age 26), and Sarah E. (age 30). The census recorded that the couple had been married for 35 years at that point.

The Land Sale of 1911

On February 2, 1911, Elisha made a significant business transaction, selling his two inherited land tracts to J. W. T. Rivers for $2,000—a substantial sum for the time. The deed was witnessed and properly recorded, with Mary Jane formally renouncing her dower rights to the property, as was required by law for married women at the time.

Interestingly, both Elisha and Mary Jane signed the deed with their marks rather than signatures, indicating they may not have been literate—not uncommon for their generation, particularly in rural areas of the South.

Death and Legacy

Elisha Blakely Davis died on October 13, 1912, in Scotland County, North Carolina, at the age of 64. He was buried the same day at Zoar United Methodist Church Cemetery in Chesterfield, South Carolina—returning to the county where he had spent most of his life.

His estate was divided among his surviving children, with commissioners appointed on December 4, 1912, to ensure an equal distribution of his remaining real estate among the legatees.

Mary Jane survived her husband by four years, passing away in 1916. Together, they left behind a substantial legacy—nine surviving children who would go on to have families of their own, ensuring the Davis name continued in the Carolina Piedmont for generations to come.

Historical Context (1848-1914)

Elisha's life spanned one of the most transformative periods in American history:

1848: The year of his birth coincided with the California Gold Rush and growing tensions over slavery

1861-1865: The Civil War occurred during his teenage years (ages 13-17)

1865-1877: Reconstruction Era, when he came of age and started his own family

1870s-1890s: The rise of sharecropping and tenant farming reshaped Southern agriculture

1900: The turn of the century found him as an established farmer with a large family

1912: His death came just two years before the outbreak of World War I

Throughout these tumultuous decades, Elisha remained rooted in the land and community where he was born, building a life centered on family, farming, and faith.

Deed Transcription

E. B. DAVIS TO J. W. T. RIVERS

The State of South Carolina, County of Chesterfield

Date: February 2, 1911

Parties: E. B. Davis of Chesterfield County, South Carolina, sells to J. W. T. Rivers

Consideration: Two Thousand Dollars ($2,000.00)

Property Description:

All that certain piece, parcel or tract of land, situate, lying and being in Chesterfield County, South Carolina, originally consisting of two tracts:

First Tract: Containing fifty-five acres more or less, lying on both sides of Abrams Creek. Reference to a deed from G. A. Parker to James K. Parker and from Nancy Parker to Michael Davis and from Michael Davis to me will also show [boundaries].

Second Tract: Containing twenty-six acres more or less on the east side of Abrams Creek including the whole of the swamp to W. A. Davis line. Reference to an old Grant to Kilgore and Deed from Michael Davis to me will also show boundaries, etc. Reference may also be had to plats attached.

Terms: Together with all and singular, the Rights, Members, Hereditaments and Appurtenances to the said Premises belonging, or in any wise incident or appertaining.

Warranty: To have and to hold, all and singular, the said Premises before mentioned unto the said J. W. T. Rivers, his Heirs and Assigns forever. The grantor binds himself, his Executors and Administrators to warrant and forever defend all and singular the said Premises unto the said J. W. T. Rivers, his Heirs and Assigns, against all persons lawfully claiming, or to claim the same, or any part thereof whomsoever.

Witnesses: R. E. Rivers and W. C. West

Signature: E. B. Davis (his mark)

Sworn before: R. E. Rivers, Clerk of Court, February 2, 1911

Renunciation of Dower: Mrs. Mary Jane Davis, wife of E. B. Davis, appeared before W. C. West, Deputy Clerk of Court, and being privately and separately examined, did declare that she does freely, voluntarily and without any compulsion, dread or fear of any person or persons whomsoever, renounce, release and forever relinquish unto J. W. T. Rivers, his Heirs and Assigns, all her interest and estate, and also all her right and claim of dower.

Signature: Mary Jane Davis (her mark)

Recorded: February 2, 1911, Chesterfield County Deed Book 31, pages 341 & 342

Elisha Blakely Davis is my 2nd Great Grand Uncle. 

__________________________

1. James C. Pigg, Chesterfield County Cemetery Survey; Self-Published, 1995, page 831. Tombstone of E. B. DAVIS; 27 June 1848–13 October 1912, Zoar United Methodist Church Cemetery, Chesterfield, Chesterfield County, South Carolina.

2. 1850 U. S. Census, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, population schedule, Chesterfield, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, enumeration district (ED) No ED, Page 179B, Line 3, Dwelling/Family 1240/1240, Household of Michael DAVIS; digital images, Ancestry.com (http://www.ancestry.com : viewed 21 July 2011); citing  National Archives Microfilm M432 Roll 851.

3. 1860 U. S. Census, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, population schedule, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, Page 94, Line 1, Dwelling/Family 1/1, Household of Michael DAVIS; digital images, Ancestry.com (http://www.ancestry.com : viewed 26 August 2011); citing National Archives Microfilm M653_1217.

4. 1880 U. S. Census, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, population schedule, Court House, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, enumeration district (ED) #5, Page 316B; Line 23, Dwelling 127, Family 127, Household of Elisha B. DAVIS; digital image, Ancestry.com (http://www.ancestry.com : viewed 26 August 2011); citing National Archive  Microfilm T9, Roll 1225.

5. 1900 U. S. Census, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, population schedule, Court House, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, enumeration district (ED) #21, Page 107A/107B, Line 50, Dwelling 427, Family 434, Household of Elisha B. DAVIS; digital images, Ancestry.com (http://ancestry.com : viewed 26 August 2011); citing National Archives Microfilm T623_Roll: 1523.

6. 1910 U. S. Census, Marlboro County, South Carolina, population schedule, Red Bluff, Marlboro County, South Carolina, enumeration district (ED) #0086, Page 246B; Line 94, Dwelling 152, Family 152, Household of Elisha DAVIS; digital images, Ancestry.com (http://ancestry.com : viewed 26 August 2011); citing National Archives Microfilm  T624.

7. James C. Pigg, Chesterfield County Cemetery Survey, Self-Published, 1995. Tombstone of E. B. DAVIS.

8. Find A Grave, Inc., Find A Grave, database and digital images, (http://www.findagrave.com : accessed  5 July 2012); Memorial page for Elisha Blakely Davis; (27 June 1848–13 October 1912); Find a Grave memorial # 100311076, Citing Zoar United Methodist Church Cemetery; Brocks Mill, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, USA.

9. Land Deed - E. B. DAVIS TO W. T. RIVERS; 2 February 1911; Deed Book #31; Page(s) 341 &F 342; Register of Deeds; Chesterfield, Chesterfield County, SC; October 2025.

10. Land Deed - Names Comissioners to Distribute Estate of Elisha Davis; 4 December 1912; Deed Book #36; Page(s) 25 & 26; Register of Deeds; Chesterfield, Chesterfield County, SC; October 2025.

11. James C. Pigg, Chesterfield County Cemetery Survey, Self-Published, 1995. Tombstone of Mary J. DAVIS.

12. James C. Pigg, Chesterfield County Cemetery Survey, Self-Published, 1995. Tombstone of Mary J. DAVIS.

13.State of North Carolina, death no. #360 (14 March 1916), Mary Jane Davis; https://www.ancestry.com, Raleigh, Wake County, North Carolina.

14. James C. Pigg, Chesterfield County Cemetery Survey, Self-Published, 1995. Tombstone of Mary J. DAVIS.

15. Mrs. Mary J. Davis obituary, The State, Columbia, Richland County, South Carolina, 16 March 1916, Page 3, Col 4.

16. Find A Grave, Inc., Find A Grave, database, "Record, Mary Jane Eddins Davis (1 May 1854–14 March 1916), Memorial # 100311219.

17. North Carolina, death certificate (2 December 1954), Charlie Davis; http://www.Ancestry.com, Fayetteville, Cumberland County, North Carolina.

18. 1930 U. S. Census, Durham County, North Carolina, population schedule, Durham, Durham County, North Carolina, enumeration district (ED) 23, Page 206B/6B; Line 92, Dwelling 127, Family 129, John R. JOHNSTON Household; digital images, Ancestry.com (http://ancestry.com : viewed 6 July 2012); citing National Archives Microfilm T626_Roll: 1687.

19. North Carolina, death certificatecertificate, (2 December 1954), Charlie Davis.

20. Find A Grave, Inc., Find A Grave, database and digital images, (http://www.findagrave.com : accessed  5 July 2012); Memorial page for Charlie Davis; (5 May 1877–2 December 1954); Find a Grave memorial # 63182667, Citing Maplewood Cemetery; Durham, Durham County, North Carolina, USA.

21. North Carolina, death certificatecertificate # 23821, (12 October 1952), William E Davis.

22. 1900 U. S. Census, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, population schedule, Cole Hill, Chesterfield County, South Carolina, enumeration district (ED) 19, Page 61A/3A, Line 3, Dwelling 43, Family 43, John R. DAVIS Household; digital images, Ancestry.com (http://ancestry.com : Viewed 7 July 2012); citing National Archives Microfilm T623_1523.

23. North Carolina, death certificatecertificate # 23821, (12 October 1952), William E Davis.

24. Find A Grave, Inc., Find A Grave, database, "Record, William E Davis (26 June 1878–12 October 1952), Memorial # 63284433.

25. North Carolina, death certificate, (5 June 1964), Mary Ellen Davis.

26. 1930 U. S. Census, Durham County, North Carolina, population schedule, Durham, Durham County, North Carolina, ED 23, Page 206B/6B; Line 92, Dwelling 127, Family 129, John R. JOHNSTON Household.

27. North Carolina, death certificatecertificate # 17739, (5 June 1964), Mary Ellen Davis.

28. Find A Grave, Inc., Find A Grave, database, "Record, Mary Ellen Davis (17 October 1879–5 June 1964), Memorial:#63281059.