Samuel Addison Reynolds

Other Events and Attributes:

• Residence: 1880, Callands, Pittsylvania, Virginia, USA; Marital Status: SingleRelation to Head: Son
• Residence: 1900, Callands, Pittsylvania, Virginia, USA; Marital Status: SingleRelation to Head: Son
• Residence: 1910, Callands, Pittsylvania, Virginia, USA; Marital Status: SingleRelation to Head of House: Son

Other Events and Attributes:

• Residence: 1850, , Pittsylvania, Virginia, USA
• Residence: 1870, , Pittsylvania, Virginia, USA; Residence Post Office: Chatham
• Residence: 1880, Callands, Pittsylvania, Virginia, USA; Marital Status: MarriedRelation to Head: Self
• Residence: 1900, Callands, Pittsylvania, Virginia, USA; Marital Status: WidowedRelation to Head: Head
• Residence: 1910, Callands, Pittsylvania, Virginia, USA; Marital Status: WidowedRelation to Head of House: Head

William married Valeria A Swanson. Valeria (daughter of Samuel Addison Swanson and Sarah Elizabeth Witcher) was born on 5 Jul 1832 in Callands, Pittsylvania, Virginia, USA; died on 17 Dec 1899 in , Pittsylvania, Virginia, USA; was buried in Callands, Pittsylvania, Virginia, USA. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Other Events and Attributes:

• Name: V.A.C. Reynolds
• Residence: 1870, , Pittsylvania, Virginia, USA; Residence Post Office: Chatham
• Residence: 1880, Callands, Pittsylvania, Virginia, USA; Marital Status: MarriedRelation to Head: Wife

Other Events and Attributes:

• Residence: 1830, , Pittsylvania, Virginia, USA
• Residence: 1840, , Pittsylvania, Virginia, USA
• Residence: 1850, , Pittsylvania, Virginia, USA
• Residence: 1860, , Pittsylvania, Virginia, USA

Notes:

Pittsylvania County Court Records Book 51
Page 72, 19 August 1873; James Devin, Jr.; James M. Reynolds.

CENSUS YR: 1850 STATE or TERRITORY: VA COUNTY: Pittsylvania DIVISION: Northern District REEL NO: M432-968 PAGE NO: 232A
REFERENCE: enumerated by me on the 21st day of October 1850 Wm.H.Waller
====================================================================================================================================
LN HN FN LAST NAME FIRST NAME AGE SEX RACE OCCUP. VAL. BIRTHPLACE MRD. SCH. R/W DDB REMARKS
====================================================================================================================================
17 914 914 Reynolds James M. 47 M / Farmer 1,000 Va . . . . .
18 914 914 Reynolds Rebecca 43 F . . . Va . . . . .
19 914 914 Reynolds Elizabeth 22 F . . . Va . . . . .
20 914 914 Reynolds William 20 M . . . Va . X . . .
21 914 914 Reynolds Mary 18 F . . . Va . X . . .
22 914 914 Reynolds John 16 M . Laborer . Va . X . . .
23 914 914 Reynolds Samuel 14 M . . . Va . X . . .
24 914 914 Reynolds Joseph 12 M . . . Va . X . . .
25 914 914 Reynolds Henry 10 M . . . Va . X . . .
26 914 914 Reynolds James 8 M . . . Va . X . . .
27 914 914 Reynolds Wilson 7 M . . . Va . X . . .
28 915 915 Mitchell Samuel 65 M / Farmer 1,662 Va . . . . .
29 915 915 Mitchell Susan 50 F


Residence:
4 slaves

Residence:
12 slaves

Residence:
12 slaves

James married Rebecca Giles on 18 May 1826 in , Pittsylvania, Virginia, USA. Rebecca (daughter of John A Giles, Sr and Ann Bayly) was born in 1807 in , Pittsylvania, Virginia, USA; died on 8 Jun 1861 in Banister, Pittsylvania, Virginia, USA. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Other Events and Attributes:

• Residence: 1850, , Pittsylvania, Virginia, USA
• Residence: 1860, , Pittsylvania, Virginia, USA

Other Events and Attributes:

• Residence: 1850, , Pittsylvania, Virginia, USA
• Residence: 1860, , Pittsylvania, Virginia, USA

Samuel married Sarah Elizabeth Witcher on 3 Oct 1831 in , Pittsylvania, Virginia, USA. Sarah (daughter of Vincent Oliver Witcher and Nancy Newbill) was born on 11 Dec 1810 in , Pittsylvania, Virginia, USA; died on 19 Dec 1880 in , Pittsylvania, Virginia, USA; was buried in Callands, Pittsylvania, Virginia, USA. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Other Events and Attributes:

• Residence: 1850, , Pittsylvania, Virginia, USA
• Residence: 1860, , Pittsylvania, Virginia, USA

Other Events and Attributes:

• Land Grant: 13 Oct 1809, , Pittsylvania, Virginia, USA
• Residence: 1820, , Pittsylvania, Virginia, USA
• Residence: 1830, , Pittsylvania, Virginia, USA

Notes:

On 30 Dec 1807 a survey was recorded for Hugh Reynolds for 425 acre tract on waters of Banister River and Tomahawk Creek adjoining land owned by [Balland] Devin, William and Joseph Reynolds (sons of Hugh Reynolds) near the original survey for Robert Neally's 452 acres on Tomahawk Creek and Bannister River


Grandson of the original settler Hugh Reynolds and Mary Nealey

Alternate marriage date: 21 Sep 1801
Chancery Court record dated Aug 1805
BIRTH: Reynolds Bible, Gilmer Evans Reynolds, page 1
BIRTH:Boisseau, Mary Leigh, Boisseau, Mary Leigh
DEATH:Boisseau, Mary Leigh, Boisseau, Mary Leigh
BURIAL:Boisseau, Mary Leigh, Boisseau, Mary Leigh

Land Grant:
425 acres on the branches of the Tomahawk and Banister River

Residence:
1 slave

Residence:
2 slaves

Hugh married Elizabeth Mitchell on 24 Sep 1801. Elizabeth (daughter of James Allen Mitchell, Sr and Sarah Warren Philpott) was born on 6 Dec 1779 in Tomahawk, Pittsylvania, Virginia, USA; died on 5 Feb 1859 in Tomahawk, Pittsylvania, Virginia, USA. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Other Events and Attributes:

• Name: Elizabeth Reynolds

Notes:

Susan Ann Edwards was the child of Calahill Edwards born on 11 - Jan - 1831 at Pitts Co VA died at Pitts Co VA on 2 - Oct - 1896 and his ( 1st ) wife Elizabeth A Reynolds born on - - 1829 at Pitts Co VA died at Pitts Co VA on (c) - - 1860-1865 married on (a) - 1855

Elizabeth A Reynolds was the child of James M Reynolds born on - - 1803 at Pitts Co VA died at Pitts Co VA on (c) - - 1862-1870 and his ( 1st ) wife Rebecca Giles born on - - 1807 at Pitts Co VA died at Pitts Co VA on (c) - - 1861 married on 18 - May - 1826

James M Reynolds was the child of Hugh Reynolds born on (c) - - 1770-1780 at Pitts Co VA died at Pitts Co VA on (p) - - 1840 and his ( 1st ) wife Elizabeth Mitchell born on (c) - - 1770-1780 at Pitts Co VA died at Pitts Co VA on (p) - - 1830 married on 12 - Sep - 1801

Elizabeth Mitchell was the child of James Mitchell born on - - 1751 at Pitts Co VA died at Pitts Co VA on - - 1795 and his ( 1st ) wife Sarah Warren Hubbard born on - - at Charles Co MD died at Pitts Co VA on (p) - - 1818 married on 28 - Mar - 1779

Notes:

Married:
Reynolds Bible, Reynolds Bible, Gilmer Evans
Reynolds, page 1

Other Events and Attributes:

• Residence: 1820, , Pittsylvania, Virginia, USA
• Residence: 1830, , Pittsylvania, Virginia, USA

John married Ann Bayly in 1800 in , , Virginia, USA. Ann (daughter of Pierce Bayly, Sr and Mary Payne) was born on 14 Sep 1777 in , Loudoun, Virginia, USA; died in Oct 1857 in Gilberts Corner, Loudoun, Virginia, USA. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Other Events and Attributes:

• Name: Annie
• Residence: 1850, , Pittsylvania, Virginia, USA
• Probate: 19 Oct 1857, , Pittsylvania, Virginia, USA

William married Elizabeth Muse on 15 Jun 1801 in , Pittsylvania, Virginia, USA. Elizabeth (daughter of John Muse and Miss Allen) was born on 21 May 1779 in , Pittsylvania, Virginia, USA; died on 16 Jul 1827 in , Franklin, Virginia, USA. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Other Events and Attributes:

• Residence: 1820, , Pittsylvania, Virginia, USA
• Residence: 1830, , Pittsylvania, Virginia, USA
• Residence: 1840, , Pittsylvania, Virginia, USA
• Residence: 1850, , Pittsylvania, Virginia, USA
• Residence: 1860, , Pittsylvania, Virginia, USA
• Residence: 1866, , , Virginia, USA

Notes:

Apparently word got out about Witcher's plan. One of the Clement brothers filed his will prior to the meeting at Dickenson's Store.

Will of Ralph Alexander CLEMENT, dated 13 Sep 1859
Pittsylvania County, VA, Will Book 3, page 340

Being about to go to attend to the taking of Depositions on the part of my Brother Jas. R. Clement where I have been apprised the other party intends to bring on a difficulty in which death may occur I hereby give and bequeath to my wife E. A. Clement during her life or widowhood all my property real & personal remainder to my daughter M. W. Clement with the right of making such advancements & provisions for my said daughter as my Said wife shall think proper. Should my said daughter die before she attains the age of 21 years my said wife surviving I give and bequeath all my slaves to my wife absolutely. My land I wish to go back to my nearest of Kin on my Father's side. Should my wife marry whilst my said daughter lives I wish her to own a third of my estate for life. remainder to my daughter. Given under my hand this 13 of September 1859.
R. A.Clement (Seal)


Murdered his granddaughter's husband.

Victoria Smith, wife of Samuel Southard Berger; Daughter of Albert and Mary Ann Witcher Smith; widow of James Reid Clement who was killed in the Witcher-Clement feud on February 26, 1860, Dickenson Store, Henry County, Virginia, by Victoria's grandfather Captain Vincent Witcher.

The Tragedy in Henry County Virginia

The usually quiet and law abiding people of the county of Henry have been intensley excited for the past three or four days in consequence of a terrible tragedy - or rather triple tragedy - that was enacted in their midst on Saturday last. The particulars reached us last evening through a source entirely reliable. the details, although not as full as we shall doubtless be enabled to give at an early day, are sufficient to cause a thrill of horror at their mere recital.

It appears, according to the version given us, that some years since, a granddaughter of the venerable and talented Vincent Witcher, Esq., of Pittsylvania County, married a gentlemen from the adjoining county of Henry, whose name was Clemmens. His Christian name we have been unable to ascertain. The maiden name of Mr. Witcher's grandaughter was (Victoria C.) Smith. The parties lived happily together until about eighteen months since, when upon the most unfounded suspicions, as we have been informed, Mr. Clemmons desired a separation from his wife, and immediately instituted proceedings for divorce, at the same time impeaching her honor as the grounds for his course. (Comment: She had a baby girl in c. 1858)

Last Saturday was set apart for the taking of depositions, and the parties met at a magisterial precinct in Henry county (Dickensons Store). Mr. Witcher appeared to defend the suit and protect the honor of his granddaughter.

The taking of the depositions progressed, and after the plaintiff had finished with a witness, Mr. Witcher asked a question, which greatly exasperated the husband, Mr. (James Reid Clement) Clemmens. He immediately rose, drawing a pistol at the same time, and fired at Mr. Witcher. Mr. Witcher, it seems, also rose and drew a pistol from his pocket and as the ball of his antagonist grazed around the abdomen, he fired, striking Clemmens in the forehead and killing him instantly.

A nephew of Mr. Witcher (Samuel Swanson), and a Mr. Smith (John Anthony Smith), brother of Mrs. Clemmens hearing the firing rushed into the room. A brother of Mr. Clemmens (Charles Johnson Clement), who had also been attracted by the pistol reports, fired at a nephew (Samuel Swanson) of Mr. Witcher, the ball taking effect and producing, it is feared, a fatal wound. Upon seeing his nephew shot, Mr. Vincent Witcher again fired, striking Clemmens No. 2, and killing him instantly.

At this stage of the sanguinary affair, Mr. Smith, a brother of Mrs. Clemmens drew a Bowie knife, but had scarcely unsheathed the blade when he was fired upon by a second brother of Clemmens (Ralph Alexander Clement), the ball taking effect in the shoulder and producing a painful wound. Infuriated by his wound, Mr. Smith rushed upon his antagonist, and with one powerful thrust of the knife completely disemboweled Clemmens No. 3, the unfortunate man falling dead on the spot.

Three of the parties dead, and the other three all wounded, the horrible tragedy here ended.

Vincent Witcher, Esq., the chief actor in this truly terrible affair, is widely known throughout Virginia. He served for many years in the lower House of Legislature, and subsequently represented his district in the State Senate with signal ability. He is a prominent member of the Whig Party, and his name has been repeatedly mentioned in connexion with the office of Governor of the Commonwealth. He succeeded Whitnall F. Tunstall, upon the death of that gentleman, as President of the Richmond and Danville Railroad. After two years service he resigned the presidency of the railroad, and has since been engaged in the practice of his profession - that of a lawyer.

Our informant states that throughout this painful suit, which Mr. Witcher believes to have been instituted against an innocent granddaughter, he has acted with great forebearance, and the part he has been compelled finally to act will be none a source of deeper regret than himself. Of course the whole matter will undergo a judicial investigation, until which we forebear further comment.

The Lynchburg "Republican" of Wednesday says that Mr. Vincent Witcher and his grandson (John Anthony Smith) surrendered themselves to the authorities and were promptly acquitted, on the grounds of self-defense. -The Lorain Eagle March 15 1860

Vincent Witcher, Esq., Committed - Bail Refused - It is stated that the examination of Vincent Witcher, Esq., for the killing of the three brothers, James, Ralph and Johnson Clement, at Dickenson's store, Franklin County, on Saturday, the 25th of February, has resulted in his committal to jail for trial. Bail was asked, but refused. Mr. John Anthony Smith, a grandson, and Mr. (William)Addison Witcher, son of Mr. Vincent Witcher, who were likewise implicated, have been sent on for trial before an Examinig Court, which is to be held on Monday next, the 26th instant. - The North Carolina Standard; Wednesday, March 21, 1860

Acquittal of Capt. Vincent Wicher, et al. March 28, 1860

Raleigh Standard 28 March 1860 March 28, 1860
ACQUITTAL OF CAPTAIN VINCENT WICHER AND OTHERS
LYNCHBURG, VA. -- March 25 -- CAPT. VINCENT WICHER, ADDISON WITCHER, J. A.
SMITH and SAM'L SWANSON, tried for killing the MESSRS. CLEMENTS in Franklin
County, Va., were acquitted on Friday evening last.

THE WITCHER-CLEMENT SCANDAL

The year 1860 was eventful for the little world in which Franklin County citizens lived and moved. A single local occurrence supplied Franklinites with a matter for speculation and conversation far into the 20th century.

The occurrence was the killing of the three Clement brothers---James, William and Ralph---by Captain Vincent Witcher, John A. Smith, Vincent Oliver Smith, Samuel Swanson and Addison Witcher. Addison Witcher was the son of Vincent Witcher. John and Vincent Oliver Smith were his grandsons. Samuel Swanson was his son-in-law. The affray had its beginning in the marriage of James Clement and Victoria Smith, which was celebrated on March 13, 1858. The groom was one of the ten children of Dr. George W. Clement. Dr. Clement (b. 1786, m. 1811, d. 186?) was educated in Hampden-Sidney College and in the medical department of the University of Pennsylvania. His mother, Stella Smith, was the daughter of Major John Smith of Lewis Island. Their Franklin County home was called "Mountain View." Victoria Smith (b.1837) was the daughter of Albert G. Smith and a granddaughter of Captain Vincent Witcher. Both Clement and Smith families appeared to be pleased with the marriage, though it was brought out in the court proceedings following the killings, that the Smith family regarded the Clement family as of inferior social station. Dr. Clement was especially proud of the beauty, wit and vivacity of his daughter-in-law. Her magnetic personality gained her many admirers. It is said that two of her old sweethearts, William P. Gilbert and Samuel D. Berger, continued their attentions even after her marriage. Though these affairs were shown to be of an innocent nature, the extremely jealous disposition of her husband led him to charge her with unfaithfulness and to humiliate her constantly. Fearing physical violence, Victoria Smith Clement fled from her husband on the might of August 24, 1859, and found refuge in the home of Sherwood Y. Shelton who lived about a mile distant. She left behind her six months old baby (Lelia Maud, b. March 1, 1859) so great was her terror at the moment of flight. This incident was made the basis of a divorce suit. Within three weeks from her flight, the taking of depositions was begun at Dickinson's Store, the same to be read as evidence in the suit then pending between John A. Smith, next friend of Victoria Smith Clement, plaintiff, against James R. Clement, defendant. The taking of depositions continued through the fall and winter, until Saturday, February 25, 1860, when the killing of the Clement brothers ended the suit. The depositions of S.Y. Shelton, Charles Powell, Willis Woody, G.T. Berger, W.P. Gilbert, George Samson and Edney Shelton had been taken. Elizabeth W. Bennett had been called to make her statement. Captain Vincent Witcher objected to having her qualify and make part of her statement on Saturday "and then being left in the hands of the opposite party to be picked until Monday morning." Captain Witcher made the statement that Miss Bennett had been brought into the case by the Clements and was said to be under their control. Ralph Clement at this point said that "Whoever said that told a damned lie." Whereupon Captain Witcher replied "You had better make your remarks more direct," rose from his chair, put his hand in his bosom, drew therefrom a "five shooter," stepped toward Ralph Clement and began firing. Addison Witcher was conducting the examination for the plaintiff. Robert Mitchell was the justice of the peace before whom the depositions were being taken. His testimony in the trial of Captain Witcher, as recorded in the volume of depositions published by Dr. C.W. Clement, Sr., in June 1860, is not very impressive. He appears to have forgotten everything that transpired in his courtroom.

The bodies of the three brothers were not only riddled with bullets, but were horribly gashed with knives. William Clement was disemboweled. James Clement had his throat slit from ear to ear. Ralph Clement lived nearly three hours despite his frightful wounds, and made a dying declaration before Justice Mitchell and Gresham Choice which was written down by Mr. Choice. It read as follows: "I never attempted to draw an arm. Addison Witcher caught me and held me around the waist and arms and told them to come and shoot me---a damned rascal. I was shot several times while in that fix, and he held me until I fell. Numbers of pistols were fired at me then." To this dying declaration, Magistrate Mitchell added these words: "Ralph A. Clement requested me to tell his father that he wanted him to make the deed to his wife and child according to his will." Robert N. Powell stated in his deposition that Addison Witcher held Ralph Clement while Vincent Oliver Smith shot him. George Finney stated in his deposition that John Anthony Smith shot and stabbed James Clement. It was stated by several deponents that both James and William Clement were reclining on a bed in the counting room when the firing began. It was thought by a few that some of the early firing came from the bed. The pistols of both James and William Clement had been fired until empty, but Ralph Clement, it was testified had not drawn gun or dirk.

The bodies of the three slain brothers were carried from Washington Dickinson's counting room, in a farm wagon, and buried in a single grave near the shaded driveway which led up to the old brick house which was their boyhood home.

The trial of Captain Vincent Witcher and his accomplices was begun almost immediately in general justices' court commonly called magistrates' court. Benjamin F. Cooper and Richard Parker took the depositions of the following: Jacob C. Mackenheimer, Gresham Choice, James Kemp, John C. Hutcherson, James M. Hutcherson, Madison D. Carter, Cluffee M. Brooks, George W. Finney, R.N. Powell, John B. Law, James M. Givson, Silas W. Evans, William C. Poindexter, Gilly Ann Huffman, John C. Law, William H. Hutcherson and Alfred L.H. Muse. Names appearing in the 200 page printed volume of depositions are: Abram Hancock, Tom Keen, Samuel D. Berger, James Rice, Shack Law, Waller Wright, Silas Dudley, Samuel G. Martox, Snead Adams, D.W. Blunt, Henry C. Mease, Mastin Williams, and John Baker, the last named being referred to as "an Englishman."

The defendants claimed self-defense as justification for their killings and the charges against them were dismissed. In June 1860, the depositions, which were being taken when the killings occurred, were published in book form. After many years of searching, 1 found a copy and have had the same before me in writing this story. Dr. G.W. Clement, Sr., states in his foreword "To the Public" that "There were five justices on the bench of the Examining Court. Three of whom were in favour of discharging the accused, and two for sending them on to further trial." The courts record of the ease shows the close of the case in the following words: "At a court continued and held for Franklin County at the Court House on the 23rd day of March 1860, for the examination of Vincent Witcher, John A. Smith, Vincent 0. Smith, Samuel Swanson and Addison Witcher charged with the felonies aforesaid by them committed in this, that they did on the 25th day of February 1860, in the Counting Boom of Dickinson's Store in said county willfully, deliberately and with premeditation murder and kill Ralph A. Clement, James R. Clement and William C. Clement.

"Present: Richard M. Taliaferro, Robert Bush, Noses C. Greer, Jonathan H. McNeil and Isaac Cannady, General Justices.

"The said Vincent Witcher, John A. Smith, Vincent 0. Smith, Samuel Swanson and Addison Witcher were again led to the bar in custody of the jailer of this court. And the court having examined divers witnesses as well on behalf of the Commonwealth as of prisoners at the bar, who were heard in their defense by Counsel, is of the opinion that there is not probable cause for charging the said prisoners with the offense aforesaid and doth order that they be acquitted and go thereof without day."

For a half century, the acquittal of these men was pointed to by Franklin County citizens as an illustration of how extreme may be the miscarriage of justice. The Masonic fraternity in which membership was held by both the killers and the killed, did not treat the matter so lightly. After the court had, on the 23rd of March, acquitted the five men of the killings committed less than a month before, Thomas S. Muse and John P, Lowell, members of the Masonic Lodge which bore the name of Vincent Witcher, chief actor in the killings, wrote of the "unfortunate death of Brothers R.A, and James R. Clement who cane to their death by the instrumentality of their brother in Masonry Vincent Witcher," and asked "that a committee of brethren be appointed whose duty it shall he to procure the evidence and make a report therefrom at our next regular communication." The reason given for "a thorough Masonic investigation," after the civil court had acquitted the killers, was stated in the following language: "The laws of a State are not the laws to try Brethren by who have offended against the Constitution and By laws of Masonry, that Civil law and Masonic law are as separate as Church and State." The Muse-Lowell document then asks, "Would the Civil law punish a Brother for violating the secrets and mysteries of Masonry or its Constitution?"

Vincent Witcher Lodge No. 87 was chartered December 15, 1852, and had 39 members in 1860. The report of this lodge to the Grand Lodge for the year 1860 shows the deaths of R.A. and James R. Clement. The membership of the lodge down to 1860 includes the name of Vincent Walker. The secretary of the Grand Lodge of Virginia, James N. Hillman, in a letter to the author writes, "I find no reference to him (Vincent Witcher) subsequent to 1860 in the list of expulsions, suspensions or membership. Evidently, something happened to him, but it is not reported in the minutes from that lodge." There were no returns from Vincent Witcher Lodge, No. 87, to the Grand Lodge, according to the minutes of 1860 to 1866. These were war years, however, and that fact, rather than the fratricidal strife, may be the explanation of the interruption of the lodge's activity. Vincent Witcher Lodge No. 87 lost its charter in 1885 for mot having made a report in three years and in 1886 is marked extinct. The number it bore is now borne by Naomi Lodge in Norfolk, but the name of Vincent Witcher, who shed the blood of his brother Masons, has not been perpetuated by Masonry.

Residence:
7 slaves

Residence:
17 slaves

Residence:
25 slaves

Residence:
35 slaves

Residence:
53 slaves

Vincent married Nancy Newbill on 5 Mar 1810 in , Franklin, Virginia, USA. Nancy (daughter of Nathaniel Parker Newbill and Sarah Glenn) was born in 1786 in , Lunenburg, Virginia, USA; died in 1869 in , Pittsylvania, Virginia, USA. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Other Events and Attributes:

• Residence: 1850, , Pittsylvania, Virginia, USA
• Residence: 1860, , Pittsylvania, Virginia, USA

Other Events and Attributes:

• Residence: 1820, , Pittsylvania, Virginia, USA
• Residence: 1830, , Pittsylvania, Virginia, USA
• Residence: 1840, , Pittsylvania, Virginia, USA

Notes:

Sept. 15, 1788, Joseph Reynolds, Qualified as executor (Alphabetical Index to the Court Order Books of Pittsylvania County, Virginia 1767- 1800, Plantiffs - J to Z, Vol. II, Genealogical Services, Danville,VA 1982)

Joseph Reynolds and William Reynolds were both named as executors in the will of their grandfather William Nealy, dated 6 December 1787 andprobated 21 July 1788. (Source: Abstracts of Pittsylvania County, Virginia Wills, 1767-1820, Compiled by Lela C. Adams, Bassett, Virginia,pgs. 65-66)

Birth:
Joseph's age is listed as 60-70 in the 1830 census. Because his marriage bond is dated 1780, he must be closer to 70 years old in 1830. These records indicate a birth about 1760.

Since Hugh Reynolds first appears in the Pittsylvania County area records about 1766, Joseph was born elsewhere. His father appeared on the 1757 tax list for Martic Township, Lancaster Co., Pa and did not arrive in Pittsylvania County unitl about 1766. The diary of Rev. John Cuthbertson, a reformed Presbyterian missionary, shows that he baptised Joseph Reynolds, son of Hew, on 15 Aug 1759 in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania.

Christened:
Joseph Reynolds, son of Hew, was baptised by Rev. John Cuthbertson in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania on 15 Aug 1759.

Residence:
1 slave

Joseph married Margaret Devin on 21 Aug 1780 in , Pittsylvania, Virginia, USA. Margaret (daughter of William Alexander Devin, Sr. and Sarah Smith) was born in 1759 in Chatham, Pittsylvania, Virginia, USA; died on 25 Nov 1800 in , Pittsylvania, Virginia, USA. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Margaret Devin, born Abt. 1761 in Pittsylvania Co.,
Virginia; died 1800; married Joseph Reynolds 21 Aug
1780 in Pittsylvania Co., Virginia.

Marriage Notes for JOSEPH REYNOLDS and MARGARETDEVIN:
Pittsylvania County, VA Marriage Bond Book 1,page 3 shows a marriage bond for Joseph Reynolds and Margaret Devin on 21 August 1780

Pittsylvania County VA Marriage Bonds Book 1

Page 3
Joseph Reynolds and Margaret Devin
Joseph Reynolds and Edward Hodges make bond of 50 pounds current money of Virginia on 21.August.1780 for the marriage of Joseph Reynolds and Margaret Devin. Bond witnessed by Joseph Akin.

Marriage Bond for Joseph Reynolds and Margaret Devin
[Transcribed by David Devin on 28.May.1999 from a photocopy of Pittsylvania County Marriage Bonds Book 1 page 3. The spelling, capitalization, and puncuation are as they appear in the handwriting. Text in square brackets [ ] are the comments of the transcriber. My appologies in advance for any mistakes interpreting the handwriting.

Note: The Marriage Bonds Book #1 is badly deteriorated and unavailable to the general public. The photocopy is from a loose file photocopy of a reconstructed page in the Pittsylvania County Courthouse. The page reference comes from the Marriage Index book at the Courthouse. I cannot be sure the reconstructed page is a true copy of the original page.]

Know all men by these Presents that we Jos. Reynolds & Edw Hodges - of Pittsylvania County are held and firmly bound unto the Common Wealth in the sum of fifty pounds Current Money of Virginia To which payment well and Truly to be made we bind our Selves our Heirs Exors and admr firmly by thise presents Sealed with our Seals and Dated this 21st Day of Augt 1780. Whereas there is a Marriage Suddenly entended and by Gods permifsion Between the above Bound Jos. Reynolds With Margreat Devin. Now the Condition of the obove obove obligation is such that if there is no Lawfull Cause to
Obstruct this Marriage then the above Obligation to be Void or Else to Remain in full force.

Joseph Reynolds {seal}
Edw Hodges {seal}

Signed sealed & Delivered
In presence of
Jos. Akin

Notes:

Pittsylvania County VA Marriage Bonds Book 1, Page 3
Joseph Reynolds and Edward Hodges make bond of 50 pounds current money of Virginia on 21.August.1780 for the marriage of Joseph Reynolds and Margaret Devin. Bond witnessed by Joseph Akin.

Know all men by these Presents that we Jos. Reynolds & Edw Hodges - of PittsylvaniaCounty are held and firmly bound unto the Common Wealth in the sum of fifty pounds Current Money of Virginia To which payment well and Truly to be made we bind our Selves our Heirs Exors and admr firmly by thise presents Sealed with our Seals andDated this 21st Day of Augt 1780. Whereas there is a Marriage Suddenly entended and by Gods permifsion Between the above Bound Jos. Reynolds With Margreat Devin. Now the Condition of the obove obove obligation is such that if there is no Lawfull Cause to Obstruct this Marriage then the above Obligation to be Void or Else to Remain in full force.

Joseph Reynolds {seal}
Edw Hodges {seal}

Signed sealed & Delivered
In presence of
Jos. Akin

Other Events and Attributes:

• Residence: 1782, , Pittsylvania, Virginia, USA

Notes:

Son of James Mitchell (1737 1851) and Jane Wiley Mitchell. James Mitchell was a Revolutionary War soldier.

Married Sarah Warren Philpott on March 28, 1779 in Pittsylvania County, VA.

Children of James and Sarah Philpott:

Elizabeth Mitchell Reynolds 1779 1859
Allen Mitchell 1780 xxxx
Samuel Philpott Mitchell 1781 xxxx
John Samuel Mitchell 1782 1844
Jane Mitchell 1784 xxxx
Cassandra Mitchell 1786 xxxx
Patsy Mitchell 1788 xxxx
James Allen Mitchell 1792 1880

James married Sarah Warren Philpott on 28 Mar 1779 in , Pittsylvania, Virginia, USA. Sarah (daughter of John Philpott and Mary Glover) was born on 5 Jan 1756 in , Charles, Maryland, USA; died in 1840 in , , Virginia, USA. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Other Events and Attributes:

• Name: Sarah Woron Hubard

Notes:

The Said Susan Ann Edwards was the child of Calahill Edwards born on 11 - Jan - 1831 at Pitts Co VA died at Pitts Co VA on 2 - Oct - 1896 and his ( 1st ) wife Elizabeth A Reynolds born on - - 1829 at Pitts Co VA died at Pitts Co VA on (c) - - 1860-1865 married on (a) - 1855

4.
The Said Elizabeth A Reynolds was the child of James M Reynolds born on - - 1803 at Pitts Co VA died at Pitts Co VA on (c) - - 1862-1870 and his ( 1st ) wife Rebecca Giles born on - - 1807 at Pitts Co VA died at Pitts Co VA on (c) - - 1861 married on 18 - May - 1826

5.
The Said James M Reynolds was the child of Hugh Reynolds born on (c) - - 1770-1780 at Pitts Co VA died at Pitts Co VA on (p) - - 1840 and his ( 1st ) wife Elizabeth Mitchell born on (c) - - 1770-1780 at Pitts Co VA died at Pitts Co VA on (p) - - 1830 married on 12 - Sep - 1801

6.
The Said Elizabeth Mitchell was the child of James Mitchell born on - - 1751 at Pitts Co VA died at Pitts Co VA on - - 1795 and his ( 1st ) wife Sarah Warren Hubbard born on - - at Charles Co MD died at Pitts Co VA on (p) - - 1818 married on 28 - Mar - 1779

Notes:

John Giles died 14 Feb 1799

E & W 11, 209 Fr: Apr, 15, 1799
Names wife: Jane Files--all my estate real and personal during her life. After her death all land whereon I live, except 100 acres which I sold to my son, John and received payment for it--to my son, William Giles, Lines to John's land were marked in the presence of John Hutchison and William Giles, and heir to the land where I now live and as fully described to Walter Lamb. Also to son, William, a bay mare, feather bed and furniture, negro girl Amaya with her increases Son: Ephram Giles--one negro girl Nancy and her increase, feather bed, furniture, 60 Lbs. Va, currancy, to be paid out of my crops as soon as made...

Son: George Giles - negro girl Tell with her increase--on his paying to my son John Giles and my son James Giles 20 Lbs. VA, money each...

My four daughters: Elizabeth Riddle, Patsey Short, Susannah Riddle, Rebecca Voadan negro woman Lucy and her increease--on equal benefits to each...

After wife's death what remains to be divided between my four daughters and my great grandson, Garson Philo Giles, son of my daughter Patsy Short. He is to have schooling, decent clothes, board and keep until manhood out of my estate.

Executors: Son, John Giles and son, William Giles
Witnesses: Walter Lalmb, Caty Lamb, Edward Carter
John Giles

Will proved by oaths of two witnesses and O.R. 15 Apr 15 1799.
John Giles and William Giles took oath 17 June 1799.
Sec: Walter Lalmb, Abraham Parrish

John Giles Overseer Information

1770's , Loudoun County, Virginia

TITHABLE 1779 JAMES JENNINGS, THOS MORE, JOHN GILES, LEVI PHILLIPS N.B. JOHN GILES IS OVERSEER FOR JAMES JENNINGS WHO PAYS HIS LEVY.
TITHABLE 1781 DANIEL JENNINGS LIST ROB JENNINGS. JOHN GILES
TITHABLE 1774 JAMES JENNINGS, JOHN GILES OVERSEER, JAMES ROBERTSON
TITHABLE 1773 JAMES JENNINGS, JOHN GILES OVERSEER
TITHABLE 1772 SAME AS LAST YEAR
TITHABLE 1771 JAMES JENNINGS, JOHN GILES, COL, FRANIC LT. LEE, WILLIAM HUMPRHIS OVERSEER
1782 PERS PROPERTY TAXES LIST TWO JOHN GILES.


Will of John Giles
Last Will and Testament of John C. Giles: John Giles being sick in body but sound of mind. To my beloved wife Jane, I will all my real estate and personal during her lifetime. At her decease all my land where on I now live except 100 acres which I sold my son John and was paid to my son William. The lines to John's land was marked off by John Hutchinson and William Giles and Fully described to Walter Lamb. Also to my son William, a mare, bed, and a Negro girl, Amey.

To my son Ephriam Giles, a Negro girl, Nancy, a bed, and sixty pounds.

To my son George Giles a Negro girl, Tell on his paying my sons James and John twenty pounds each.

To my four daughters: Elizabeth Riddle, Patsy Short, Susannah Riddle, and Rebecca Vaden, a Negro woman Lucy to be of equal benefit, but I do not desire her to be sold out of the family.

What is left after the death of my wife, to be equally divided between my four daughters.

I want my son Philo Giles, son of my daughter Patsy Short, to be given a good education, board and kept in decent clothing until manhood.

Appoint my sons John and William as executors.

John (x) Giles Wit: Walter Lamb, Caty Lamb, Edward Carter Walter Lamb and Abraham Parrish security for the executors.

John married Catherine Jane Shisler in 1761 in , , Virginia, USA. Catherine was born in 1745 in , Westmoreland, Virginia, USA; died in 1799 in , Pittsylvania, Virginia, USA. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Other Events and Attributes:

• Residence: 1774, , Fairfax, Virginia, USA

Pierce married Mary Payne on 23 Feb 1772 in , Fairfax, Virginia, USA. Mary (daughter of William Payne and Susannah Clark) was born on 23 Feb 1753 in Fairfax, Fairfax, Virginia, USA; died in 1826 in , Loudoun, Virginia, USA; was buried in Gilberts Corner, Loudoun, Virginia, USA. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Other Events and Attributes:

• Residence: , , , USA

William married Nancy Ann Graves in 1776 in , , Virginia, USA. Nancy (daughter of William Graves and Dorothy Smith) was born in 1753 in , Essex, Virginia, USA; died on 25 Jul 1830 in , Pittsylvania, Virginia, USA. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

John married Miss Allen in 1775 in , Westmoreland, Virginia, USA. Miss was born in 1760 in , , Virginia, USA; died in 1783 in , Amelia, Virginia, USA. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Other Events and Attributes:

• Residence: 1782, , Pittsylvania, Virginia, USA
• Residence: 1820, , Pittsylvania, Virginia, USA

Notes:

Residence:
23 slaves

William married Mary Polly Dalton on 1 Apr 1782 in , Pittsylvania, Virginia, USA. Mary (daughter of Robert Dalton and Mary Key) was born in 1764 in , Albemarle, Virginia, USA; died on 29 Sep 1852 in , Pittsylvania, Virginia, USA. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Other Events and Attributes:

• Residence: 1830, , Pittsylvania, Virginia, USA
• Residence: 1840, , Pittsylvania, Virginia, USA
• Residence: 1850, , Pittsylvania, Virginia, USA

Other Events and Attributes:

• Residence: 1810, , Franklin, Virginia, USA
• Residence: 1820, , Franklin, Virginia, USA

Nathaniel married Sarah Glenn in 1772 in , Lunenburg, Virginia, USA. Sarah (daughter of Tyree Glenn and Mary Roe) was born in 1751 in , Lunenburg, Virginia, USA; died on 24 Feb 1823 in , Pettis, Missouri, USA. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Other Events and Attributes:

• Residence: 1756, Martic Township, Lancaster, Pennsylvania, USA
• Residence: 1766, , Pittsylvania, Virginia, USA
• Land Grant: 3 Aug 1771, , Pittsylvania, Virginia, USA
• Deed-Purchase: 4 Nov 1774, , Pittsylvania, Virginia, USA
• Land Tax List: Between 1782 and 1809, , Pittsylvania, Virginia, USA
• Deed-Purchase: 15 Apr 1783

Notes:

Deed Book 9, pg. 37-39 written 16 January 1791, probated 18 July 1791

To my loving wife Martha Reynolds the plantation with improvements where I now lived, together with one moeity of whole tract being 104 acres on the same side of the road with my plantation during her life.
To my beloved son Joseph Reynolds at the decease of my wife, 54 acres of said land and plantation.
The other 50 acres and plantation on Gease Branch where my beloved son Richard Coyle Reynolds now lives, to him and his heirs.
To my wife, two feather beds and furniture, the pewter, 2 chests, spining wheels, rest of the household furniture, my riding horse, her saddle, 2 cows, 1 heafer, 9 head of hogs to be hers during her lifetime. At her decease, to be sold and divided among my children: Sally, Tiffey, Betty, Thomas, Johan, Jessey, William, James, Alice, Thomas, Lucy, Joseph, Richard Cole Reynolds and Anna Davis.
Appoint my wife and Robert Walter, Jr. executors.
William (x) Reynolds
Wittnesses: Thomas Cissell, Samuel Constable, John Wilson, and William Lynch security for executors.


"Hugh Reynolds had lived in the area of Pie Creek and Tomahawk Creek in Virginia since at least 1766. His requests for land patents [almost 1200 acres] are recorded in the Land Entry Book, 1737-1770. He may not have received all of this land but it proves he was living here in order to request surveys for this land The deed books show that Hugh bought 57 acres of land on the south side of Tomahawk Creek from Wm. Neely on 4 Nov 1774 and later purchased 105 adjoining acres from Killian Kreck.

Hugh Reynolds was exempted from levies in 1785,indicating his age or infirmity; he was listed as not tithable on the 1787 tax list. He was still alive in 1788 at the probate of Wm. Neeley's will. There is no deed on record for the sale of Hugh's land; nor is there a will a court order requiring inventory and appraisal, or an account of probate for him.

Hugh is listed as giving non-military help during the American Revolution. He is also listed as taking the Oath of Allegiance in 1777 in Pittsylvania County, VA."

Notes for MARY NEELY:
Both Mary and her husband were alive when her father's will was probated
21 Jul 1788

1783, On motion of Hugh Reynolds, a witness for Robert Duncan against James Devin; Duncan pay Reynolds 16 days attendance. PITTSYLVANIA CO. VA COURT RECORDS 4-493

On 16 May 1785 [P] was exempted from payment of levies indicating his age or infirmity. He was also listed as not titheable in the 1787 tax list.

Hugh Reynolds had lived in the area of Pie Creek and Tomahawk Creek in Virginia since at least 1766. His requests for land patents totaling almost 1200 acres are recorded in the Land Entry Book, 1737-1770. He may not have received all of this land but it proves he was living here in order to request surveys for this land. The deed books show that Hugh bought 57 acres of land on the south side of Tomahawk Creek from William Neely on 4 November 1774 and later purchased 105 adjoining acres from Killian Kreck.
Hugh Reynolds was exempted from levie in 1785 indicating his age or infirmity; he was listed as not tithable on the 1787 tax list. He was still alive in 1788 at the probate of William Neeley's will. There is no deed on record for the sale of Hugh's land; nor is there a will or a court order requiring inventory and appraisal or an account of probate for him.
Hugh is listed as giving non-military help during the American Revolution. He is also listed as taking the Oath of Allegiance in 1777 in Pittsylvania County Virginia."
Both Mary and Hugh were alive when Mary's father William Neely's will was probated 21 July 1788.
Known children of Hugh and Mary are 1. Joseph Reynolds Sr. and William Reynolds

There as yet has not been found a record of the marriage records of Hugh Reynolds and Mary Nealey. In 1768 Hugh Reynolds purchased land adjacent to as well as from William Nealey.

Marriage to Mary Neeley or Nealey1756 30 Dec Age: 21Martic Township, Lancaster County, Pa. Married at the home of William "Neiley's" 30 Dec. 1756 by Rev. John Cuthbertson Martic, Twp., Lancaster Co., Pa. Son Joseph Bapt. 15 August 1757 both at Muddy Run Meeting House.

The will of William Nealey dated 6 December 1787 leaves his estate to Mary Reynolds and his two grandsons Joseph and William Reynolds. The will was prooved July 21, 1788 and the Surety was Hugh Reynolds.

3 Aug 1771 Va Patent Bk. 40 p. 551, Pittsylvania Co., Hugh Reynolds received patent for 298 acres on waters of Banister River adjoining land of Nealy & Roberts (Doc. 1140)
See Pittsylvania County, VA Landowners Per 1797 Land Tax: Transcribed by Mary Leigh Boisseau: Lists Hugh Reynolds as owing 2 parcels of land; the first, 105 acres and the second 65 acres. Also Lists Jesse Reynolds (grandson of Hugh, through William) as owning 4 parcels of land 104 acres and 3 parcels of 50 acres each. If, Hugh Reynolds, father of Joseph and William, and husband of Mary Nealey Reynolds had died by 1797, he would not have been on this taxables list. Hugh Reynolds, his grandson, s/o Joseph and Peggy Devin Reynolds would only be 17 years old in 1797; therefore this list must refer to Hugh, the original settler in Pittsylvania County. Jesse Reynolds is the grandson of Hugh, through William, Hugh's eldest son. Jesse bought the land his father, William left to his brothers, Joseph and Richard Cole, in 50 acre parcels in 1794 after the death of William in 1791. Only William's brother Joseph was left to inherit Hugh's estate, therefore no Will or contents appraisal was needed, and none is found in the records of Pittsylvania County.

Sources
Hugh Reynolds is found in Martic, Lancaster Co., Pennsylvania listed on the taxables list for 1757, along with Wm. Neely, and Wm. Devin and a William Reynolds. He is next found in 1768 in Pittsylvania Co., Virginia buying land adjoining Robert Devin. http://www.horseshoe.cc/pennadutch/places/pennsylvania/lancasterco/townships/marticprov/marticee.htm
The Pedigree Resource file lists that a Josiah Reynolds was born 1 Jan 1758 in Nansemond County, Virginia. He died in 1833 in Smith County, Tennessee. He is listed as the son of John David Reynolds and Mary Martha Gay. John David Reynolds was born 1 Jan 1727/8 in Guilford County, North Carolina, the son of William Reynolds and Mary Brown. William Reynolds was born 5 Jul 1701 at Nottingham, Pennsylvania. Hence, name and residence patterns indicate that this Reynolds family of Pennsylvania, North Carolina and Virginia, is probably not directly related to the Reynolds families of Patrick, Henry, Pittsylvania and Brunswick Counties of Virginia.
http://genforum.genealogy.com/cgi-bin/pageload.cgi?Bristol,City::va::17551.html

3 Aug 1771 Va Patent Bk. 40 p. 551, Pittsylvania Co., Hugh Reynolds received patent for 298 acres on waters of Banister River adjoining land of Nealy & Roberts (Doc. 1140)
See Pittsylvania County, VA Landowners Per 1797 Land Tax: Transcribed by Mary Leigh Boisseau: Lists Hugh Reynolds as owing 2 parcels of land; the first, 105 acres and the second 65 acres. Also Lists Jesse Reynolds (grandson of Hugh, through William) as owning 4 parcels of land 104 acres and 3 parcels of 50 acres each. If, Hugh Reynolds, father of Joseph and William, and husband of Mary Nealey Reynolds had died by 1797, he would not have been on this taxables list. Hugh Reynolds, his grandson, s/o Joseph and Peggy Devin Reynolds would only be 17 years old in 1797; therefore this list must refer to Hugh, the original settler in Pittsylvania County. Jesse Reynolds is the grandson of Hugh, through William, Hugh's eldest son. Jesse bought the land his father, William left to his brothers, Joseph and Richard Cole, in 50 acre parcels in 1794 after the death of William in 1791. Only William's brother Joseph was left to inherit Hugh's estate, therefore no Will or contents appraisal was needed, and none is found in the records of Pittsylvania County.

Residence:
William Reynolds, Hugh Reynolds, William Neely, and William Devin all appear on the 1757 tax list of Martic Township, Lancaster County, Pennsylvania.

William Neely is the father-in-law of Hugh Reynolds as shown by his Pittsylvania County will naming daughter Mary Reynolds and grandsons, Joseph and William Reynolds. Joseph Reynolds, son of Hugh, married Margaret Devin, daughter of William Devin in Pittsylvania County, Va. William Devin also left a will in Pittsylvania County naming a son, Robert Devin. In his Revolutionary War pension application, Robert Devin stated that he was born in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania on 6 Apr 1759 proving that William Devin of Pittsylvania is the same person who was in Lancaster County Pennsylvania. These records show that Hugh Reynolds migrated to Pittsylvania County Va from Lancaster County Pa with William Neely and William Devin. This migration may have included other related families as well. Further research is required here, especially into the Blair family.

Residence:
His requests for land patents (almost 1200 acres) are recorded in the Land Entry Book, 1737-1770. He may not have received all this land, but it proves he was living here in order to request the surveys.

Land Grant:
On 3 Aug 1771 Hugh Reynolds was granted 298 acres on the waters of Banister river in Pittsylvania County, Virginia adjacent Robert Nealey.

Deed-Purchase:
On 04 Nov 1774 Hugh Reynolds bought 57 acres on the south side of Tomahawk Creek in Pittsylvania County, Virginia from William Nealey. (DB 4/91). This is probably the same tract of land listed as 65 acres on the land tax list from 1782 through 1809. After his death, this land went to his son, William Reynolds.

Land Tax List:
In 1782, the General Assembly of Virginia enacted new legislation providing for the enumeration of the owners of real property in each county. The owner's of each parcel of land were recorded. If a person owned more than one parcel, his name appeared multiple times, one for each tract of land he owned. Hugh Reynolds appears on the 1782 land tax list of Pittsylvania County, VA with 65 acres of land. This is the parcel which he purchased from William Nealey in 1774. For the next three years, only revisions to the land tax list were recorded. From 1786 forward, the list included all properties, not just the revisions from previous years. From 1786 to 1809 Hugh Reynolds appears on the land tax list with two parcels, one of 65 acres and the other of 105 acres. In the 1810 list William Reynolds, son of Hugh, is listed as the owner of these two parcels. This shows that Hugh Reynolds died between the dates of these two tax lists.

Deed-Purchase:
On 15 Apr 1783 Hugh Reynolds bought 105 acres on Tomahawk Creek from Killian Kreek for 15 pounds. This is the 105 acre tract shown on the land tax list from 1786 through 1809. At his death, this property went to his son, William Reynolds.

Hugh married Mary Nealey on 30 Dec 1756 in , Lancaster, Pennsylvania, USA. Mary (daughter of William Nealey) was born in 1735 in , Henry, Virginia, USA; died in 1788 in , Pittsylvania, Virginia, USA. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Other Events and Attributes:

• Name: Mary Reynolds

Notes:

Married:
Hugh Reynolds was a member of the Muddy Run Society, a congregation of Covenanters in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. Rev. John Cuthbertson was the first Covenanter missionary to America in 1751. He kept a diary of his activities from the first day of his arrival in America. On 30 Dec 1756, he recorded the following, "Rode 6 miles to and from Wm. Neilie's; married Hew Reynolds and Mary K."

Notes:

William's family was said to be of Huguenot descent (French Protestants who were driven out of France in 1680 due to the Edict of Nantes). Devin is probably French--meaning sage, seer, foreteller of events. Surnames were adopted after 1000 AD in Europe and so our Devin ancestor was probably "le devin" (the seer) and the "le" was probably omitted with time. There were many Devins who did not leave France in 1680 and stayed Catholic. Some of these Catholic Devins came to Canada and there are many Devins in Canada today.

The Progenitor of the Devin Family in America was William Devin, Sr. William Devin Sr. came to America in 1745 or 1746 and in 1750 married Sarah Smith, and settled in Pittsylvania Co., Virginia. They were members of the Presbyterian Church and accumulated some wealth. They had eleven children some dying in childhood. William Sr. named some of his children in his will recorded April 19,1802.

WILL-DEED AND WILL BOOK 11, PAGE 243, PITTSYLVANIA CO., VIRGINIA RECORDED APRIL 19, 1802
"In the name of God Amen, I, William Devin Sr.--of the County of Pittsylvania, in good health and of sound mind and memory for which I thank God; and calling to mind the mortality of man, knowing it is appointed of God for all men once to die, do make constitute and ordain this, my last Will and Testament--I first of all give and recommend my soul into the hands of Almighty God that gave it me and my body to be decently intered at the discretion of my Executor and to such worldy Estate as it has pleased God to bless me with in this life, I give and dispose of in manner and form following, that is first of all my just Debts--to be honestly paid. Secondly, I give to my children, James Devin, Mary Biggar, William Devin Jr., Robert Devin, and Joseph Devin--twenty shillings to each of them, their heirs or assigns forever. Third, I give to my daughter Sarah Devin, the house in which I now live after being well covered out of money arising out of my estate and the land adjoining thereto and bounded as follows, by William Devin Jr. lines on the south, by Joseph Devin and Spragin on the east, by Robert Devin on the north, and by Wimbish and Spurling on the west to inclose part of my new survey agreeable to Robert Devin's marked line
for dividing the said survey. I also give said Sarah, one negro boy, Alleck, one mare Finnex, or her value in cash, or another creature of near equal value, one cow and calf, exclusive of a white cow I admit to be her own property, one bed and furniture of her choice and half of all the other of my household furniture; one ewe and lamb, if any belonging to my estate, and lastly two sows and pigs, the choice of my stock and provisions of every kind that I may die possessed of for her and those free persons that I may leave in my family at my death for one year after. My further will is that if my daughter Sarah Devin should die without lawful heir of her body that in that case she has a right only to dispose of half the property to her given as she may think proper, and the other half my will is that it may be equally divided between all my surviving children or their lawfully begotten heirs of any they have or assigns forever. Item--I give to the children of my daughter Margaret Reynolds--twenty pounds cash to be under the direction of their father, Joseph Reynolds for the use of the said children that may live to enjoy it. And my further will is that all the land and negroes I may be possessed of at my death with all and every kind of property to me belonging not before in this last will given shall be sold my Executor at one years credit and the money arising therefrom after all legal and lawful expenses are paid for the execution of the will, the surplus if any, to be divided equally between my children as follows to wit--William Devin Jr., Mary Biggar, Robert Devin, the children of Margaret Reynolds (deceased) Sarah Devin and Joseph Devin, their heirs or assigns forever....."

From the Pittsylvania Co., Virginia Courthouse records, the following items: "William Devin Sr. to William Devin Jr. a deed February 17,1794"

"William Devin Sr. listed as head of family 1785"

MILITARY RECORDS
William Devin Sr. war services: War records no. 4 p. 166: "received a certificate for balance of full pay, according to act passed November session 1781, as Sergeant of Infantry...Virginia Continental Line."

The Devin property in Pittsylvania Co., Virginia is shown by deeds and records to be near the Sandy River, S.W. corner of Pittsylvania Co., N.W. of Danville and east of Martinville, Virginia. Pittsylvania Co. was formed in 1767 from Halifax Co., absorbed Patrick Co. and Herry Co. in 1777. In 1753 Halifax Co. was part of Lunenburg Co.

In records, various spellings of the Devin name is given...Davin, Deaven, Divean, Diven, and Divin. William Devin and his son, William Devin, Jr., took turns serving in the Military and sometimes only for three-month periods between farm work on their acreage, the military archives does not have any distinction between them, as all the records are just under
"William Devin". His first four sons were in the Revolutionary War.

1797 -- Pittsylvania Co., VA Land tax book, "Devin, Will, Sr., 530 acres."
1797 -- Pittsylvania Co., VA Land tax book, "Devin, Will, Sr., 8 3/4 acres, L.P."
1797 -- Pittsylvania Co., VA Land tax book, "Devin, William, Sr., 430 acres, L.P."
1797 -- Pittsylvania Co., VA Land tax book, "Devin, Wm., Sr., 287 acres, L. Orphans(Leak's orphans in 1793)

Virginia Judgements Book 4
Page 4
Grand Jury May Court 1777 State of Virginia, William Devin
War Record Book 4, page 166; William Devin
Virginia Land Office Records
Virginia Land Office Grant Book D
Page 140-141
William Devan, 404 acres, Pittsylvania County
Land grant to William Devan recorded 01.September.1780 for 404 acres in Pittsylvania County on both sides of Wet Sleve Creek adjoining Chamberlain, White, and Leah.
Page 146-147
William Devan, 327 acres, Pittsylvania County
Land grant to William Devan recorded 01.September.1780 for 327 acres in Pittsylvania County on the Banister River adjoining Cook's land.
Virginia Land Office Grant Book 33
Page 607
Jacob Aaron, 330 acres, Pittsylvania
Land grant to Jacob Aaron recorded 10.May.1796 for 330 acres in Pittsylvania County on the head of Little Creek, a branch of Banister River adjoining land of Stockton and Green. Note: This record is listed because it borders several Devin land holdings.
Virginia Land Office Grant Book 37
Page 18-19
William Devan, 430 acres, Pittsylvania
Land grant to William Devan recorded 12.October.1796 for 430 acres in Pittslvania County on both sides of Banister River adjoining land of Cook and Ball.
Virginia Land Office Grant Book 39
Page 448-449
Land grant to Robert Devin recorded 17.July.1797 for 950 acres in Pittsylvania County on both sides of Wet Sleve Creek adjoining land of Wimbish, Herndon, Jenkins.
Page 463-464
Land grant to William Devin, Sr. recorded 17.July.1797 for 200 acres in Pittsylvania County on the waters of Banister River adjoining Brown, Hook and Herndon.
Virginia Land Office Grant Book 57
Page 57
Land grant to Robert Devin recorded 09.March.1808 for 30 acres in Pittsylvania County adjoining land of Wimbish and Spurlin.
Virginia Census Records
Virginia Census 1785
Devin, William Jr.
Devin, William Sr.
United States 1790 Census for Virginia
Page 80
William Devin, Sr.
Page 100
William Devin, Jr.
United States 1850 Census for Virginia
Nancy Devin w/daughter & grandaughter
Henry County, Virginia Records
Pittsylvania County, Virginia Records
Pittsylvania County, Virginia was established 01.June.1767. Records from dates earlier than that date are either copied from records of parent counties or are archived in the parent counties. See The Genealogy of Pittsylvania County, Virginia for more information about the county governments of the Pittsylvania County area.

Pittsylvania County Va 1767 List of Tithables
Tithes taken by Theop'l Lacy 10th of June 1767:
Wm. Davin and Son Jas Davin
1787 Personal Property Tax List
Devin, William Sr.
2 white males 16-21
1 black over 16
0 blacks under 16
8 horses, mules, etc.
12 cattle

Pittsylvania County VA Court Records

The following court record references came from the "Plantiff Index to Court Records" at the Pittsylvania County Court House in Chatham,
Virginia. The following records are indexed on Pages 653-656. I do not have any copies of the court record pages, as yet.

Court Records Book 2

Page 64; 28.August.1772; William Devin; Thomas Henderson.
Page 154; 27.March.1773; James Devin; Exempt from roadwork.
Page 154; 27.March.1773; William Devin; Exempt from roadwork.
Page 326; 24.March.1774; James Devin; Josiah Mann.
Page 332; 25.March.1774; William Devin; Richard Prewet.
Page 431; 25.May.1775; William Devin; John Cook.

Court Records Book 3

Page 64; May.1787; Robert Devin; John Biswell.
Page 82; November.1787; Robert Devin; Boaz.

Court Records Book 4

Page 159; 25.September.1778; William Devan; John Mitchell.
Page 276; 19.October.1779; William Devan; Isreal Christian.
Page 301; 22.March.1780; James Devin; qualified as Ensign of Militia.

Court Records Book 5

Page 2; no date; William Devin; James Roberts.
Page 22; 20.August.1783; James Devin; Robert Duncan & wife.
Page 29; 21-22.August.1783; William Devin; Israel Christian.
Page 48; 22.October.1783; William Devin, Sr.; Samuel Duncan.
Page 163; 17.May.1785; William Devin; Henry Dunlap.
Page 195; 22.June.1785; James Devin; Harmon Cook.
Page 326; 16.May.1786; William Devin; James Deer.
Page 364; 22.August.1786; William Devin; Israel Christian.
Page 388; 20.November.1786; Robert Devin; Elijah Ryley.
Page 486; 25.May.1787; James Devin; Richard Pigg.

Court Records Book 6

Page 23; 21.November.1787; Robert Devin; John Stockton.
Page 51; no date; Robert Devin; Appointed as Tax Commissioner.
Page 319; 20.August.1789; William Devin; Order to certify tax error.
Page 343; 19.November.1789; William Devin; James Roberts.
Page 360; 17.August.1789; Robert Devin; John Buckley.
Page 366; 21.May.1790; Robert Devin; John Morton.
Page 413; no date; Robert Devin; John Morton.
Page 437; 19.August.1790; Robert Devin; John Morton, Sr.
Page 454; 20.December.1790; Robert Devin; Daniel Hankins.
Page 461; 21.February.1791; Robert Devin; Appointed as Tax Commissioner.

Court Records Book 7

Page 49; no date; Robert Devin; Qualified Captain of Militia.
Page 236; 17.June.1793; Alexander Devin; William Spurling.
Page 314; 17.February.1794; Robert Devin; Qualified Tax Commissioner.
Page 406; 20.April.1795; Robert Devin; As Tax Commissioner.

Court Records Book 8

Page 26; 18.May.1795; Robert Devin; Ordered to record certificate.
Page 41; 18.May.1795; Robert Devin; Qualified Lieutenant in Militia.
Page 44; 19.May.1795; Joseph Devin; Qualified Ensign in Militia.
Page 104; 19.August.1795; William Devin; Jessee Robertson.
Page 121; 19.October.1795; Robert Devin; Appointed Revenue Tax Commissioner.
Page 199; 24.March.1796; William Devin; Jessee Robinson.
Page 267; 17.October.1796; Robert Devin; Reappointed Tax Commissioner.

Court Records Book 9

Page 49; 16.September.1799; Robert Devin; Qualified Executor.
Page 165; 19.November.1798; Robert Devin; Qualified as Captain Militia.
Page 276; 19.May.1800; Robert Devin; Order to certify resurvey.
Page 301; 16.June.1800; Joseph Devine; Qualified Lieutenant in Militia.
Page 461; 16.February.1801; Robert Devin; Qualified Administrator.

Court Records Book 10

Page 54; 17.August.1801; Robert Devin; John Ward.
Page 168; 19.April.1802; William Devin [estate]; Order to record will.
Page 170; 17.May.1802; James Devin, Jr.; Qualified Deputy Sheriff.
Page 207; 21.June.1802; William Devin [estate]; Order to record will.
Page 229; 19.July.1802; Joseph Devin; Qualified Executor.
Page 229; 19.July.1802; William Devin (estate); Order to record inventory and appraisement.
Page 229; 19.July.1802; Robert Devin; Qualified Executor.
Page 234; 19.July.1802; Joseph Devin; Qualified Captain in Militia.
Page 237; 16.August.1802; William Devin [estate]; Order to record Inventory and appraisement.
Page 309; 22.February.1803; James Devin; Discontinued.

Court Records Book 11

Page 192; 20.August.1804; Elizabeth Devin; Qualified Administratrix.
Page 192; 20.August.1804; Joseph Devin (Est)[estate]; Order to Record Inventory and Appraisement.
Page 225; 17.September.1804; Joseph Devin (Est)[estate]; Order to Record Inventory and Appraisement.

Court Records Book 12

Page 26; 21.January.1806; Robert Devin (sur-exr)[surviving executor]; Richard Gross.
Page 26; 21.January.1806; William Devin (est)[estate]; Richard Gross.
Page 68; 19.March.1806; Robert Devin; Crispin Shelton.
Page 78; no date; Robert Devin; Crispin Shelton.

Court Records Book 13

Page 348; 21.November.1808; Robert Devin; Joseph Norton.
Page 356; no date; Robert Devin; Joseph Norton.
Page 394; 16.January.1809; Betsy Devin (GDN)[guardian]; Guardian Qualified.
Page 394; 16.January.1809; Joseph Devin (est)[estate]; Guardian Qualified.

Court Records Book 14

Page 175; no date; Robert Devin (exr) [executor] and William Devin (estate); Samuel Calland.
Page 191; 19.March.1810; James Devin and John Devin; William Clark Shff.
Page 237; 21.May.1810; Robert Devin; Qualified Executor.
Page 358; no date; Robert Devin (exr) and William Devin (estate); Samuel Calland.
Page 547; 20.May.1811; Robert Devin (exr) and William Devin (estate); Samuel Calland.

Court Records Book 15

Page 10; 18.June.1811; Robert Devin; George Herndon (est-exrs).
Page 50; no date; Robert Devin; Thomas Blakley.
Page 176; 16.March.1812; Robert Devin; Thomas Blakley.
Page 184; 16.March.1812; John Devin and James Devin; Jacob Aron.
Page 219; 17.August.1812; John Devin and James Devin; William Rawlins.
Page 341; no date; John Devin and James Devin; William Rawlins.
Page 349; no date; Robert Devin; Thomas Wright.
Page 349; no date; Robert Devin; James Nowlin.
Page 350; no date; Robert Devin; Pier Turley.
Page 352; no date; Robert Devin; Samual H. Watson.
Page 353; no date; Robert Devin; William H. Watson.
Page 394; 19.October.1812; Robert Devin; James Witcher.
Page 406; no date; Robert Devin; Caleb Witcher.
Page 447; 18.January.1813; Robert Devin; John Custard.
Page 509; 19.March.1813; Robert Devin; James Nowlin.
Page 509; 19.March.1813; Robert Devin; Samual H. Watson.
Page 509; 19.March.1813; Robert Devin; William H. Watson.
Page 510; 19.March.1813; Robert Devin; Thomas Wright.
Page 510; 19.March.1813; Robert Devin; Pier Turley.
Page 515; 20.March.1813; Robert Devin; Caleb Witcher.

Court Records Book 16

Page 28; 22.June.1813; Robert Devin; William H. Watson.
Page 120; no date; Joseph Devin; Order to record account current.
Page 121; 15.November.1813; Robert Devin; Joseph Homes.
Page 167; no date; Robert Devin; William H. Watson.
Page 185; 21.February.1814; John Devin (orphan) and Joseph Devin (est); Guardian Qualified.
Page 241; 16.May.1814; Joseph Devin; Order to record account current.
Page 302; no date; John Devin (orphan) and Joseph Devin (est); order to record inventory and appraisment.
Page 309; 15.August.1814; Robert Devin; Thomas Muse.
Page 396; no date; Elizabeth Devin and Joseph Devin (est); Order to record dower allottment.
Page 412; 20.February.1815; Elizabeth Devin and Joseph Devin (est); Order to record dower allottment.
Page 428; 20.March.1815; Robert Devin; James Jackson.
Page 429; no date; John Devin (orphan) and Joseph Devin (est); order to record inventory and appraisment.

Court Records Book 17

Page 114; 19.March.1816; John Devin (orphan) and Joseph Devin (est); order to record inventory and appraisment.

Court Records Book 19

Page 17; 16.March.1818; Sarah Devin; Exempt from payment of levies and taxes.

Court Records Book 22

Page 33; no date; Sarah Devin; Jones So.
Page 217; 21.June.1821; Sarah Devin; Jones So.

Court Records Book 23

Page 114; no date; John Devin; Jo Davis.
Page 271; 19.January.1824; John Devin; Jo Davis.

Court Records Book 24

Page 60; 19.January.1824; John Devin; Davis.
Page 109; date unknown; John Devin; Davis.
Page 199; date unknown; John Devin; Davis.
Page 295; 21.August.1824; John Devin; Beck.
Page 306; 21.August.1824; John Devin; Fendley.
Page 331; date unknown; John Devin; Fendley.
Page 364; date unknown; John Devin; Beck.
Page 367; date unknown; John Devin; Fendley.

Court Records Book 25

Page 12; 15.November.1824; John Devin; Beck.
Page 37; date unknown; James Devin; Isham P. Petty.
Page 118; date unknown; James Devin; Isham P. Petty.
Page 131; date unknown; James Devin; Boaz Est-Admr.
Page 190; date unknown; James Devin; Isham P. Petty.
Page 191; date unknown; James Devin; Boaz Est-Admr.
Page 224; date unknown; James Devin; Isham P. Petty.
Page 230; 19.August.1825; James Devin; Boaz Est-Admr.
Page 293; date unknown; James Devin; Isham P. Petty.
Page 352; date unknown; James Devin; Isham P. Petty.

Court Records Book 26

Page 41; date unknown; James Devin; Isham P. Petty.
Page 114; 16.October.1826; Robert Devin; Qualified Sheriff of Pittsylvania County.
Page 143; date unknown; James Devin; Isham P. Petty.
Page 203; date unknown; James Devin; Isham P. Petty.
Page 302; date unknown; James Devin; Isham P. Petty.
Page 303; 22.August.1827; Robert Devin; Order to Settle Account Current.

Court Records Book 27

Page 21; date unknown; James Devin; Isham P. Petty.
Page 57; 18.February.1828; Robert Devin; Qualified Sheriff.
Page 89; date unknown; James Devin; Isham P. Petty.
Page 145; date unknown; James Devin; Isham P. Petty.
Page 197; date unknown; James Devin; Isham P. Petty.
Page 264; date unknown; James Devin; Isham P. Petty.
Page 340; date unknown; James Devin; Isham P. Petty.
Page 404; date unknown; James Devin; Isham P. Petty.

Court Records Book 28

Page 183; date unknown; James Devin; Isham P. Petty.
Page 259; date unknown; James Devin; Isham P. Petty.
Page 311; date unknown; James Devin; Isham P. Petty.
Page 380; date unknown; James Devin; Isham P. Petty.

Court Records Book 29

Page 39; date unknown; James Devin; Isham P. Petty.
Page 252; date unknown; James Devin; Isham P. Petty.
Page 342; date unknown; James Devin; Isham P. Petty.

Court Records Book 30

Page 54; date unknown; James Devin; Isham P. Petty.
Page 184; date unknown; James Devin; Isham P. Petty.
Page 293; date unknown; James Devin; Isham P. Petty.

Court Records Book 31

Page 89; date unknown; James Devin; Isham P. Petty.
Page 192; 19.November.1833; James Devin; Isham P. Petty.

Court Records Book 32

Page 70; 19.May.1834; Robert Devin; Order to record will, inventory, and appraisement.
Page 275; date unknown; Robert Devin; Order to record account current.
Page 278; 15.December.1834; Robert Devin; Order to record inventroy and appraisement.
Page 390; 18.May.1835; Robert Devin; Order to record account current.

Court Records Book 35

Page 125; 20.August.1839; Nancy Devin; Declaration.

Court Records Book 38

Page 257; 19.May.1845; William Devin (est) and Sarah Devin (heir); Order concerning division of land.
Page 315; 18.August.1845; Sarah Devin; Order to record report of Commissioners.

Court Records Book 40

Page 81; 16.October.1848; Sally Devin; Order to record will.
Page 82; 16.October.1848; Sarah Devin; Curator Qualified and order to appriase.
Page 90; 20.November.1848; Sally Devin; Order to record will.
Page 91; 20.November.1848; James Devin; Mary Biggers Heirs.
Page 93; 20.November.1848; Sally Devin; Order to record inventory and appraisement.
Page 94; 20.November.1848; Sally Devin; Order to appraise.
Page 97; 21.November.1848; Sally Devin; Order to appraise.
Page 180; 21.May.1849; James Devin; Mary Biggers Heirs.
Page 376; 17.June.1850; Morton Devin; Jonathan Elliott.

Court Records Book 43

Page 14; date unknown; James A. Devin; Qualified executor.

Court Records Book 44

Page 202; 20.July.1857; James A. Devin; Qualified executor.
Page 404; date unknown; Nancy Devin; Order to record will.
Page 430; date unknown; Nancy Devin; Order to record will.
Page 488; 19.July.1858; Nancy Devin; Order to record will.
Page 490; 19.July.1858; Nancy Devin; Executor qualified.
Page 492; 19.July.1858; Nancy Devin; Order to record inventory and appraisement.
Page 493; 19.July.1858; Nancy Devin; Executor qualified.
Page 507; 16.August.1858; Nancy Devin; Order to record inventory and appraisement.
Page 507; 16.August.1858; Nancy Devin; Heirs certified.

"Satisfactory evidence was this day exhibited to the Court that Nancy Devin was a Pensioner of the United States at the rate of eighty dollars per annum, was a
resident of this county and died in this county on the 11th day of April 1858 leaving only one child whose name is Sarah S. Hurt."
Page 560; date unknown; J. A. Devin; Account current confirmed.

Court Records Book 45

Page 60; 21.March.1859; J. A. Devin; Account current confirmed.

Court Records Book 48

Page 379; 18.May.1868; Nancy Devin; Executor powers revoked.

Court Records Book 49

Page 57; 17.August.1868; James A. Devin; Administrator qualified and order to appraise.
Page 582; date unknown; James A. Devin; Account current confirmed.

Court Records Book 50

Page 193; date unknown; Fanny A. Devin; James A. Devin Est-Admr.
Page 219; date unknown; Fanny A. Devin; James A. Devin Est-Admr.
Page 246; 16.December.1872; Fannie Devin (gdn), Fannie W. Devin, Ida L. Devin, James Devin, and William R. Devin; Guardian Qualified.
Page 256; 17.December.1872; Fannie Devin (gdn), Fannie Devin, Ida L. Devin, James Devin, and William R. Devin; Order concerning money.
Page 271; date unknown; Fanny A. Devin; James A. Devin Est-Admr.
Page 324; date unknown; Fanny A. Devin; James A. Devin Est-Admr.
Page 404; date unknown; Fanny A. Devin; James A. Devin Est-Admr.

Court Records Book 51

Page 10; 21.July.1873; Fanny A. Devin; James A. Devin Est-Admr.
Page 72; 19.August.1873; James Devin, Jr.; James M. Reynolds.
Page 96; 20.October.1873; James A. Devin; Account current confirmed.
Page 307; 18.January.1875; Fannie A. Devin (gdn) and William R. Devin (by gdn); Account current confirmed.

Court Records Book 68

Page 245
21.May.1900; Nelson Devin; Exempted from payment of Capitation Tax.

Pittsylvania County VA Deed Book 2

Page 497
from William Devin; April 25, 1772

Pittsylvania County VA Deed Book 6

Page 412
09.October.1782; rent agreement from Samuel Calland, executor, to James Devin allowing James to farm 500 acres of the Arthur Hopkins estate for seven
years at a cost of 20 barrels of corn per year.

Pittsylvania County VA Deed Book 7

Page 534
from William Devin, Sr.; Nov. 21, 1785

Pittsylvania County VA Deed Book 8

Page 372-373
04.November.1788; deed from Abadnego Boaz to Robert Devin for 293 acres on Strawberry Creek in Pittsylvania County. (Note: Missing photocopy of
page 373).

Pittsylvania County VA Deed Book 9

Page 119-120
Thomas Mustian
Last Will and Testament of Thomas Mustain; 16.July.1792
Page 251-253
03.March.1791; Trust Deed from Jesse Robinson to William Devin, Sr.
Page 374
20.April.1789; deed from Robert Devin to Benjamin Burnett, Sr. for 293 acres on the west side of Strawberry Creek adjoining Thomas Boaz and
Chamberlain.
Page 392-393
12.April.1793; deed from Jeremiah Walker and Joseph Devin for 77 acres on Turkey Branch.
Page 446
19.October.1793; deed from Richard Prewett, Elizabeth Prewett (his wife), and Julius Newcom to Robert Devin for 150 acres on north side of Little
Strawberry Creek.
Page 455-456
15.October.1793; deed from Jeremiah Walker and Mary, his wife, to Joseph Devin for 77 acres on Turkey Branch.
Page 498-499
17.February.1794; deed from William Devin, Sr. to William Devin, Jr. for 200 acres on both sides of Wet Sleve Creek.

Pittsylvania County VA Deed Book 11

Page 301-302
10.November.1797; deed for 47.75 acres on both sides of Wet Sleave Creek from Jeremiah Spurling to Robert Devin.
Page 302-303
10.November.1797; deed for 87.5 acres on both sides of Wet Sleve Creek from Robert Devin to Jeremiah Spurling.
Page 465-466
28.November.1798; deed for 126 acres from William Devin, Sr. to Joseph Devin.
Page 466
28.November.1798; deed for 150 acres from William Devin, Sr. to Robert Devin.

Pittsylvania County VA Deed Book 13

Page 537
Heirs of William Devin from Alexander Devin
23.November.1803; from Alexander Devin to heirs of William Devin reliquishing his rights to the estate of his father, William Devin, Sr.

Pittsylvania County VA Deed Book 16

Page 116
Mitchell from Devin
from Robert Devin to John Mitchell recorded 06.?June?.1806
Page 127
Parrish from A. Parrish
Deed from Abram Parrish and wife, Susannah, to Matthew Parrish
Page 228
Nancy Devin from Parrish
Deed 16.January.1809 from Abram Parrish and wife, Susannah, to Nancy Devin al, gift.
Page 229
Parish from A. Parrish
Deed from Abram Parrish and wife, Susannah, to Thomas Parish
Page 231
Parrish from A. Parrish
Deed from Abram Parrish and wife, Susannah, to Susanna Parrish
Page 232
Parrish from A. Parrish
Deed from Abram Parrish and wife, Susannah, to Richard Parrish
Page 240-241
Devin from Devin
Recorded 06.January.1809; from Robert Devin, executor, to William Devin (son of William Devin, Sr.)partitioning land in the estate of William Devin, Sr.
Page 241-243
Biggar from Devin
; 06.January.1809; from Robert Devin, executor, to Mary Biggar (daughter of William Devin, Sr.) partitioning land in the estate of William Devin, Sr.
Page 243-244
Reynolds from Devin
; 06.January.1809; from Robert Devin, executor, to Joseph Reynolds (widower husband of Margaret who is daughter of William Devin, Sr.) partitioning
land in the estate of William Devin, Sr.

Pittsylvania County VA Deed Book 17

Page 264
; 10.April.1811; deed from Robert Devin to William C. Hurt for 150 acres of land.

Pittsylvania County VA Deed Book 20

Page 333-334
12.October.1816; deed from John L. Jarvis to William Devin. (page 334 not photocopied).

Pittsylvania County VA Deed Book 29

Page 153
Robert Devin deed to Methodist church
Page 219
Robert Devin deed to Methodist church

Pittsylvania County VA Marriage Bonds Book 1

Page 3
Joseph Reynolds and Margaret Devin
Joseph Reynolds and Edward Hodges make bond of 50 pounds current money of Virginia on 21.August.1780 for the marriage of Joseph Reynolds and
Margaret Devin. Bond witnessed by Joseph Akin.
Page 11
Joseph Devin and Elizabeth Nowlin
Joseph Devin and William Devin make bond of 50 pounds on 16.July.1789 for the marriage of Joseph Devin and Elizabeth Nowlin.
Married by Richard Elliott
Page 14
James Bleakley and Elizabeth Smith
James Bleakley and Robert Devin make bond of 50 pounds current money on 12.January.1791 for the marriage of James Bleakley and Elizabeth Smith.
Bond witnessed by William Tunstall, Jr.
Elizabeth Smith consented for herself on 11.January.1791 and consent was witnessed by Joseph Akin.
Married by Richard Elliott.
Note: This record is added to Devin Timber because James Bleakley appears many times in other Devin records, and Elizabeth Smith may be related to
Sarah Smith, wife of William Devin, Sr.
Robert Devin and Nancy Parrish
Robert Devin and Joseph Akin make bond of 50 pounds current money on 22.January.1791 for marriage of Robert Devin and Nancy Parrish. Bond
witnessed by: William Tunstall, Jr.
Consent given by Abram Parrish (father of Nancy) on 23.January.1791 and was witnessed by Joseph Akin.
Married by: Richard Elliot
Alexander Devin and Sucky Nowlin
Alexa

William married Sarah Smith in 1750 in Chatham, Pittsylvania, Virginia, USA. Sarah (daughter of Capt. Thomas Smith) was born on 20 Mar 1728 in , Pittsylvania, Virginia, USA; died on 22 Nov 1800 in , Pittsylvania, Virginia, USA. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

"Not named in the will of her husband which was dated 25 November 1800. Dessa's booklet mentions a letter to Alfred Harrison Devin written b Rev. Robert Ira Devin son of James, son of William Jr., son of William Sr. The letter is said to make the following statement: "Records of the Parish of Camden: Sarah Devin born March 20, 1728". "

"William Devin, Senior is considered to be the Progenitor of the protestant Devin family in the United States of America. William Devin, Senior of Virginia was born in Dublin, Ireland and came to America in 1745 or 1746. In 1750, he married Sarah Smith and settled in what is now Pittsylvania County, Virginia.
--The Devin Family, page 1.

A William Davin along with son James Davin is listed in the 1767 list of Tithables for Pittsylvania County, Virginia Colony.

Like many landowners of the era and region, William Devin Senior owned slaves. His will states that he owned at least one male slave, named Alleck, which he bequeathed to his daughter Sarah Devin.
-The Devin Family, page 2.

William Sr. served as Sergeant of Infantry, Virginia Continental Line. He "received a certificate for balance of full pay, according to act passed November session 1781". [more likely this was his son William Jr.]
-The Devin Family, page 3.

Children listed in will: James Devin, Mary Biggar, William Devin, Jr.
Robert Devin, Joseph Devin, heirs of Margaret Reynolds, decd.

References:
(1) War Records No.4 Page 166
(2) Will of William Devin Senior recorded April 19, 1802 in deed and Will Book 11, page 243, of Pittsylvania County, Virginia. Will was signed 25 Nov 1800.
(3) 1787 Pittsylvania Co VA for William Devin, Sr.
Personal Property Tax List: 2 white males 16-21
1 black over 16
0 blacks under 16
8 horses, mules, etc.
12 cattle

Dessa's booklet mentions a letter to Alfred Harrison Devin written by Rev. Robert Ira Devin son of James, son of William Jr, son of William Sr. The letter is said to make the following statements: 'William Devin born 1724.'"

These statements may be accurate, but Dessa's booklet, as written, seems to relate that these records have Irish origins. There is a Camden Parish in Pittsylvania County, Virginia. If the referenced records are from the Virginia parish, why do they mention the marriage of William and Martha Devin? Is the Sarah Devin mentioned in the records actually William Sr.'s spouse rather than his sister? Another theory is that the William and Martha Devin mentioned in the parish of Camden records is William Devin and Martha Mitchell and the 2 in 1720 is actually an eight.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/St._Kevin's_Church,_Camden_Row,_Dublin

Notes:

Abstracts of Bedford County, Virginia: Wills, Inventories and accounts, 1754-1787; Abstracted, Edited and published by Miss Joida Whitten, printed in Dallas Texas. Page 60 of the abstracts: Page 237 in the records:
Will for Daniel Mitchell. Dated: 13 June 1775.
Lend to my beloved wife Mary Mitchell my lands and stock of every kind and all my estate both real and personal during her life and after her decease my Executors sell the whole of the said estate and let it be equally divided amongst all my children.
Executors: my brother Robart[sic] Mitchell and Michael Pruitt
Witnesses: Charles Cobbs, Daniel Mitchell, Thomas McCown
Proven: 25 Sep 1775 by oaths of Charles Cobbs and Daniel Mitchell.
Executors: Robert Mitchell and Michael Pruitt
Security: James Mitchell and Charles Cobbs.

On pages 334-335 Inventory and appraisement.
Daniel Mitchell 18 October 1775
Listed: household furnishings, livestock, farm equipment
Appraisers: Geo. Caldwell, Abraham Irvin, John Irvin.
Returned 22 Feb 1779

Daniel married Mary Caldwell. Mary was born in 1727; died in 1793. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

John married Mary Glover. Mary was born in 1724 in , Charles, Maryland, USA; died in 1766 in , Charles, Maryland, USA. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Other Events and Attributes:

• Residence: 1782, , Fairfax, Virginia, USA

William married Mary Hampton in 1740 in Richmond, Independent Cities, Virginia, USA. Mary (daughter of Francis Hampton and Elizabeth Neville) was born in 1718 in , Isle of Wight, Virginia, USA; died in 1780 in Colchester, Fairfax, Virginia, USA. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

William married Susannah Clark on 3 Feb 1748 in Truro Parish, Fairfax, Virginia, USA. Susannah (daughter of Thomas Clarke and Susannah) was born on 17 Dec 1721 in , Loudoun, Virginia, USA; died on 22 Feb 1771 in Truro Parish, Fairfax, Virginia, USA. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

William Graves of Pigg River 1724-1809

William Graves first appears in public records when he leased 500 acres of land on the Pigg River, Pittsylvania Co., VA on 4 January 1773. At that time he was referred to as "William Graves of Caroline Co., VA" as he was new to the area. On 9 February 1773, William purchased 100 acres of land (most likely) adjacent to the leased acreage. (Pittsylvania Co. Deed Bk. 3, p. 247). Witnesses to these transactions were Peyton Smith, Susannah Daniel, Thomas Potter, William Daniel, Jr., William Graves and James Daniel.

In 1776 this area became a part of newly formed Henry County.

On 13 September 1777, a list of persons renouncing allegiance to Great Britain and swearing allegiance to the Commonwealth of Virginia included William Graves, Senr.......53, David Graves....20, William Graves....22. (The numbers following the names appear to be their age at the time).

On 22 November 1777, William Graves purchased the 500 acres that he had previously leased. This tranaction was duly recorded in Henry Co., VA.

On 18 April 1778, William Graves, Sr. sold the 100 acres now located in Henry Co. to William Graves., Jr., our Fourth Great-grandfather.

William Graves, Sr. and his son, William Graves are both listed on the Henry Co., VA Tax Lists. William Graves, Sr. was appointed to assess property in the district under the command of Frederick Reeves in 1778 and return an amount according to law. In 1778, the only Graves on the Tax Assessor list in Henry Co. was William Graves and William Graves, Jr.

In 1779, the Tax List of Henry noted the following Graves: William Graves, Sr., William Graves Jr. and David Graves. (It is likely that this David Graves was also a son of William Graves, Sr).

William Graves became a resident of Franklin Co., VA in 1785 when that county was formed from the northern half of Henry Co.. part of Bedford Co and part of Patrick Co. He was still living on his 500 acres on the Pigg River.

William Graves, Sr. died intestate in 1809 in Franklin Co., VA. On 4 Dec 1809, John Graves (most likely his son) and Peyton Graves (another son most likely) gave bond for the Letters of Administration of the personal estate of William Graves, deceased.

SOURCE: The Graves Family Newsletter, April 1984, Vol. 9, No. 50.

William married Dorothy Smith in 1750 in , , Virginia, USA. Dorothy was born in 1725 in , Pittsylvania, Virginia, USA; died in , Franklin, Virginia, USA. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

John married Frances Chattin on 19 Nov 1754 in , Lancaster, Virginia, USA. Frances (daughter of Thomas Chattin and Margaret Miller) was born in 1730 in , Lancaster, Virginia, USA; died in 1780 in , Westmoreland, Virginia, USA. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Other Events and Attributes:

• Residence: 1782, , Pittsylvania, Virginia, USA

Notes:

William Witcher was living in Pittsylvania Co VA by 1762, and in 1763 he was serving as a vestryman of Camden Parish. (He may have been a vestryman as far back as 1747) Pittsylvania Co and Camden Parish were organized in 1767. He was one of two people who let the contract for a church near Snow Creek Chapel, and also one of two who let the contract for the Chapel of Ease. He was one of four ordered to let the building of the "hull of a Courthouse thirty two by twenty four Shingled Ruff" -- the first courthouse in Pittsylvania Co. He was appointed a Justice of Peace for Pittsylvania Co on December 12, 1769.

1767 First List of Tithables of Pittsylvania Co. VA
William Witcher and negro Sawney 2 100
Daniel Witcher 1 191
John Witcher 1 190

William Witcher took the oath of Vestryman 1768. Was member of County Committee of Safety. Appointed Captain of Militia in 1775. Commanded a Company of Militia in Indian Expedition of 1776. When the Regiment under Col. Christian pushed on into Tenn., a force of 200 men were left under the command of Capt. Witcher to guard Fort Patrick Henry. (Pittsylvania Pension Papers).

From Brunswick Co., VA deed files...
8-D, Peter Copeland, 380 acres, Little Beaver Creek, 23 Apr 1768, land now in Pittsylvania County, VA [#226].
Peter Copeland, 51 acres, brs. of Daniel's Mill Creek, 9 Feb 1769, land now in Pittsylvania County, VA [#182].

3 May 1775. Order to Peter Copeland and William Witcher to examine Frances Hicks, the wife of James Hicks, Jr., in their deed to Thomas Claiborne 25 Nov 1772 for 638 acres in Meherrin Parish. She was examined in Pittsylvania County 23 May 1776. Returned to Court 26 Aug 1776.

Brunswick County, Virginia, Deed Book 12, 1776-1777, page 42 (74).
William Witcher was a member of the Pittsylvania Co. Committee of Safety, which was organized in 1775 to carry out the instructions of the Continental Congress to boycott trade with England.

In claims on govt. for property taken for public use in Pittsylvania Co., Va in 18 March 1782 are many claims for William Witcher. Also for James, James, Jr., John, Thomas, and Cain Witchers. 17 May 1784

On September 27, 1775, William Witcher, Sr. was appointed a Captain of the Pittsylvania militia. He raised a company of soldiers in Pittsylvania Co., VA. Captain Witcher took part in the Indian Expedition of 1776. When the Regiment under Col. Christian pushed into Tennessee, a force of 200 men under the command of Capt. Witcher was left to guard Fort Patrick Henry.

WITCHER, William. Capt.-Col County Militia. Indian Expeditions
1776-1777. Member of the Committee of Safety. Vestryman, Justice; led Company to Stono Inlet. S.C. 1779. Led Co to Hillsboro to support Gen. Green Winter 1780. Fought with Col. Campbell's riflemen at Guilford.

Indian outrages continued, and Capt. William Witcher's company was one of two that rendezvoused at Pittsylvania Old Courthouse in March, 1777. In April they marched to Fort Patrick Henry (today the site of Kingsport, TN) and there searched for Indians, ranging the woods in all directions. In July a treaty was drawn up, and the men were dismissed to make their way home.

When Gen. Nathaniel Green assumed command of the Southern Continental Army in 1780, Capt. Witcher and his company marched from Pittsylvania Co. to Salisbury, North Carolina, as reinforcements. They also marched to Stone River in South Carolina, where they joined Colonel David Mason's regiment. Captain Witcher participated in the Battle of Stans under General Lincoln, and his company also joined General Greene in Halifax Co., South Carolina. In addition, he fought at Guilford Courthouse under Col. Lynch and at Hutaw Springs under Stephens. Captain Witcher was later promoted to Major and made Colonel by brevet.

(In the month of February 1779 this deponant was called out for a five months tour as a drafted militia man in a company commanded by Captain William Witcher in a regiment commanded by David Mason and was immediately marched south and joined the continental troops under General Linkhon at a place southwest of Charleston not long before the battle at
---?---. He and the militia with him were attached to and served with the regular troops during the whole campaign. He was discharged at Camden SC by a written discharge by his captain which said discharge he still has, of which the following is a true copy---

"Camden SC
"This is to certify that Joseph Terry Williams a Sergeant in my company of militia from Pittsylvania has served his tour of duty and is discharged. Given under my hand this 23rd day of July 1779.
Wm Witcher, Capt.

After the war, he was one of several trustees appointed by the Virginia General Assembly to improve the navigation on the Staunton River, from Brooker's ferry to the mouth of Pigg River.

William Witcher died in June 1808. His will was recorded and probated at the Court of Pittsylvania Co., VA. His executors were his sons, John and William, and they were bonded for thirty thousand dollars.

A Chapter of the DAR in Cedartown, GA is named for William S. Witcher.

The Last Will And Testament Of William Witcher
In the name of God amen. I, William Witcher Sr., of the County Pittsylvania being of weak body but of sound memory, and knowing that it is appointed for all men to once to die, do make and declare this my last Will and Testament (revoking all others) in manner and form as follows:
ITEM: My will and desire is that all my just debts should be paid out of my estate hereafter mentioned by my executors of a perishable kind.
ITEM: I give and bequeath to my son, John Witcher, my negroes, Sarah, and her children, Sinda, Ceala, and Anna, in addition to what I have already given him, which I give to him and his heirs forever.
ITEM: I lend to my son, Daniel Witcher, my negroes Stephen and Anderson during his lifetime, and after his decease my will and desire is that his heirs should inherit them forever.
ITEM: I give and bequeath to my son, William Witcher Jr., my negroes Tamer and her children Phebe, Betsy, and Peyton in addition to what I have heretofore given him, all of which I give to him and his heirs forever.
ITEM: I give and bequeath to my son, Ephriam Witcher, my negroes Bob, Abraham, Sam, Phillis, Jacob, and Will; also the land I possess in the County of Pittsylvania aforesaid on the North side of the Pigg River whereon I now live, bounded by the lines of John Smith, John Witcher, Daniel C. Edwards and William Swanson Jr. and Pigg River, all of which property both real and personal I give to him and his heirs forever.
ITEM: I give and bequeath to my son, James Witcher, my negroes Hannah, and Sellar her child to him and his heirs forever.
ITEM: I give and bequeath to my son, Caleb Witcher, one hundred pounds for the purpose of discharging a Judgment obtained against him by John Smith in the County Court of Pittsylvania, also to discharge his bond to George Herndon, both of which sums my will and desire is for my to pay them out of the sum specified and the surplus if any to go to my son Caleb Witcher and to his heirs forever. Also I lend to my son Caleb Witcher during his natural life, my negro girl,
Bethsheba and after his decease my will and desire is that his eldest child Thillada should inherit the negro girl Bethsheba with her increase forever, and in the case that Thillada should decease without lawful heirs of her body, then my will and desire is that the rest of my son Caleb's should inherit her (Bethsheba) with her increase forever.
ITEM: I lend to my daughter Elizabeth Razer during her natural life my negroes Edmond and Rose and after her decease I give them to her heirs forever.
ITEM: I give and bequeath to my daughter Rachel Morrison and her heirs forever all my tract of land whereon William Morrison (her husband) now lives on the South side of the Pigg River, bounded by Pigg River, Herman Cook's lines and William Parker's lines containing one hundred acres more or less all of which land I give to her and her heirs forever. Also two cows and calves I give to her and her heirs forever.
ITEM: My will and desire is that what money is in hand at my decease, after discharging my debts, my will and desire is that it be equally divided between my sons, John Witcher, William Witcher Jr., Daniel Witcher, Ephriam Witcher, and James Witcher.
ITEM: My will and desire is that after my decease all my stock of every kind, plantation utensils, household and kitchen furniture, with the crop on hand, be sold to the highest bidder on a credit of twelve months, and after the later is finished, the money arising therefrom be equally divided between my sons, John Witcher, William Witcher Jr., Daniel Witcher, Ephriam Witcher, and James Witcher
And lastly I do constitute, appoint and ordain my two sons, John Witcher, and William Witcher Jr., the whole and sole executors of this my last will and testament in witness thereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this eighth day of December, one thousand eight hundred and six.

William Witcher (seal)
Sealed and delivered in the presence of
Joseph Matchett, Donald (illegible), Peyton Graves

Probate of Will
At the court of Pittsylvania County the 18th day of July, 1808, the last will and testament of William Witcher (deceased) was presented in Court and proved by the oaths of Joseph Matchett and Peyton Graves two of the subscribing witnesses and ordered to be recorded, and on the motion of John Witcher and William Witcher Jr., the executors in the said will named, who made Oath according to law, and together with Peyton Graves, William Swanson., Ephriam Witcher,
William Witcher Jr., and their securities, entered into and acknowledged their
bond in the penalty of Thirty Thousand Dollars for that purpose conditioned as the law directs, certificate is granted them for obtaining a probate of the said will in due form.

Fiske Will Lemstall--(?)
(signature illegible)

Seal A copy teste: E.E. Friend Clerk
Pittsylvania Circuit Court
Chathem, Virginia

Listed in DAR patriot index:
WITCHER Sr, William
Birth: EN 1724
Rank: Capt PS
Service: VA
Death: VA 8 Jun 1808
Patriot Pensioned: No
Widow Pensioned: No
Children Pensioned: No
Heirs Pensioned: No
Spouse: (1) Anne X

WITCHER, William. Capt.-Col County Militia. Indian Expeditions
1776-1777. Member of the Committee of Safety. Vestryman, Justice; led
Company to Stono Inlet. S.C. 1779. Led Co to Hillsboro to support Gen.
Green Winter 1780. Fought with Col. Campbell's Riflemen at Guilford.

From: An Abbreviated History of Pittsylvania County, Virginia Chapter Six: Pittsylvania's Military History By Maud Carter Clement , Chatham, Virginia, ca. 1952

In the summer of 1776 the Cherokee Indians attacked the western frontiers, and Virginia sent a force of 1600 men against them. We know of four companies of Pittsylvania Militia which marched with this force, commanded by Captains Jesse Heard, Peter Perkins, William Witcher, and Joseph Martin. When General Nathaniel Greene assumed command in the south, Virginia at once sent reinforcements. From Pittsylvania in the fall and winter of 1780-81 marched companies of militia commanded by Captains John Winn, James Brewer, William Witcher, Isaac Clements and Joshua Stone.

Mr. T. A. Witcher,
Brownwood, Texas

Dear sir:

In reply to your favor of recent date, and in answer to your enquiries:

At the creation of this County in 1767, one Wm. Witcher qualified as a vestryman for the Parish of Cambden. He was afterwards Capt., Justice of the Peace, and Maj. in the Continental Army. His will is dated in 1808. His sons were Caleb, Ephraim, John, Daniel, and William, His daughters-Ann, who married a Razor and other daughter married Morrison. I know nothing of them and descendants. William and John died in this County. Ephraim and Caleb move to Surrey and Nash Counties, N.C. Daniel moved to Kanawha County, West Va., on Witcher Creek. He was the Ancestor of Gen. J.L. Witcher of Salt Lake City, who was in the Yankee Army. I am a grandson of Vincent Witcher who was a son of Wm. I did meet Toliver Witcher when a boy, at the Columbia Hotel in Richmond. He was then Georgian. Seemed to be reticent, and as I was a mere boy I talked and saw but little of him. There is a family of Witchers in Clark and Oglethorpe Georgia; and I learn there is another family near Marietta. Vincent Witcher was for 29 years a Representative from this County. Also President of Richmond and Danville R.R. Came in one vote of being elected Governor and 3 votes of U.S. Senate. Had 3 sons N.M. Capt. V.O. and Col. W.A. Witcher of 21st Va. Regiment. V.O. died in 1869. Belonged to 57th If. I am a son of N.M. and commanded the 34th Va. Cav. I was at the battle of Gettysburg, and out of 432 men, lost all but 96. Was sent to East Tenn, and participated in all campaigns there. ________ and after Lee I surrendered. Was introduced to President Davis by Gen'l Jno C. Breckenridge, as the bravest of the brave, the truest of the true.

I am a farmer. On a good farm, and am 69 years old. Never held a Civil office, and told the President two years ago, wanted Elective or appointed: and have been for many years dissatisfied with both the centralizing tendencies of the Republicans, and the demagogary and insincerity of the Democrats, who seem to have no great underlying principles. Hence I am allied with the Populist and am a member of both the National and State Committees. Feel little interest any way.

Your mother was educated at a grand, noble Institution. My first wife was also educated at Salem. My present wife has a niece in your City who was formerly a Mrs. Rucker. I think she married a McCormick. I would be pleased to write to you any time, and give you all the information I can. There are James Witcher at Bells that Sen. Bailey has told me of. Mrs. Nancy Langhorne Astor, her grandmother was a Witcher. During the War I met Mrs. Dr. Ewing ______Cumberland Gap, and she said Wm. L. ______ and Ben Hill were Cousins of ours. The Daltons-- she was daughter of James Witcher.

Very truly and respectfully,
(signed V.A. Witcher)


William Witcher came to the American colonies from England. He served in the Virginia Militia during the American Revolution. He led his company into the battle of Stono Ferry, SC, in 1779. He also fought in the battle of Guilford Courthouse, NC, in 1781. During the Indian Expeditionary Wars he became a Brevet Colonel.



WITCHER, William. Capt.-Col County Militia. Indian Expeditions 1776-1777. Member of the Committee of Safety. Vestryman, Justice; led Company to Stono Inlet. S.C. 1779. Led Co to Hillsboro to support Gen. Green Winter 1780. Fought with Col. Campbell's riflemen at Guilford.


The Last Will and Testament of William Witcher:

In the name of God amen. I, William Witcher Sr., of the County Pittsylvania being of weak body but of sound memory, and knowing that it is appointed for all men to once to die, do make and declare this my last Will and Testament (revoking all others) in manner and form as follows:

ITEM: My will and desire is that all my just debts should bepaid out of my estate hereafter mentioned by my executors of a perishable kind.

ITEM: I give and bequeath to my son, John Witcher, mynegroes, Sarah, and her children, Sinda, Ceala, and Anna, in additionto what I have already given him, which I give to him and his heirsforever.

ITEM: I lend to my son, Daniel Witcher, my negroes Stephen and Anderson during his lifetime, and after his decease my will and desire is that his heirs should inherit them forever.

ITEM: I give and bequeath to my son, William Witcher Jr., my negroes Tamer and her children Phebe, Betsy, and Peyton in addition to what I have heretofore given him, all of which I give to him and his heirs forever.

ITEM: I give and bequeath to my son, Ephriam Witcher, my negroes Bob, Abraham, Sam, Phillis, Jacob, and Will; also the land I possess in the County of Pittsylvania aforesaid on the North side of the Pigg River whereon I now live, bounded by te ines of John Smith, John Witcher, Daniel C. Edwards and William Swanson Jr. and Pigg River, all of which property both real and personal I give to him and his heirs forever.

ITEM: I give and bequeath to my son, James Witcher, my negroes Hannah, and Sellar her child to him and his heirs forever.

ITEM: I give and bequeath to my son,, Caleb Witcher, one hundred pounds for the purpose of discharging a Judgment obtained against him by John Smith in the County Court of Pittsylvania, also to discharge his bond to George Herndon, both of whh sums my will and desire is for my to pay them out of the sum specified and the surplus if any to go to my son Caleb Witcher and to his heirs forever. Also I lend to my son Caleb Witcher during his natural life, my negro girl, Bethsheba and after his decease my will and desire is that his eldest child Thillada should inherit the negro girl Bethsheba with her increase forever, and in the case that Thillada should decease without lawful heirs of her body, then my will and desire is that the rest of my son Caleb?s should inherit her (Bethsheba) with her increase forever.

ITEM: I lend to my daughter Elizabeth Razer during her natural life my negroes Edmond and Rose and after her decease I give them to her heirs forever.

ITEM: I give and bequeath to my daughter Rachel Morrison and her heirs forever all my tract of land whereon William Morrison (her
husband) now lives on the South side of the Pigg River,bounded by Pigg River, Herman Cook?s lines and William Parker?s lines
containing one hundred acres more or less all of which land I give to her and her heirs forever. Also two cows and calves I give to her and her heirs forever.

ITEM: My will and desire is that what money is in hand at my decease, after discharging my debts, my will and desire is that it be equally divided between my sons, John Witcher, William Witcher Jr., Daniel Witcher, Ephriam Witcher, and James Wiher.

ITEM: My will and desire is that after my decease all my stock of every kind, plantation utensils, household and kitchen furniture, with the crop on hand, be sold to the highest bidder on a credit of twelve months, and after the later is finish, the money arising there from be equally divided between my sons, John Witcher, William Witcher Jr., Daniel Witcher, Ephriam Witcher, and James Witcher.

And lastly I do constitute, appoint and ordain my two sons, John Witcher, and William Witcher Jr., the whole and sole executors of this my last will and testament in witness thereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this eighth day of December, one thousand eight hundred and six.

William Witcher (seal)

Sealed and delivered in the presence of
Joseph Matchett, Donald (illegible), Peyton Graves

Probate of Will

At the court of Pittsylvania County the 18th day of July, 1808, thelast will and testament of William Witcher (deceased) was presented in Court and proved by the oaths of Joseph Matchett and Peyton Graves two of the subscribing witnesses and ordered to be recorded, and on the motion of John Witcher and William Witcher Jr., the executors in the said will named, who made Oath according to law, and together with Peyton Graves, William Swanson., Ephriam Witcher, William Witcher Jr., and their securities, entered into and acknowledged their bond in the penalty of Thirty Thousand Dollars for that purpose conditioned as the law directs, certificate is granted them for obtaining a probate of the said will in due form.

Fiske WillLemstall--(?)
(signature illegible)

The History of Pittsylvania County Virginia By Maud Carter Clement
Various excerpts related to William Witcher:

In 1776 Pittsylvania County and Camden Parish were organized and at the first meeting of the vestry, held June 21, 1776, at the courthouse, there were present the following vestrymen, 'who subscribed in the Vestry to be comfortable to the doctrine and Discipline of the Church of England as by law Established: John Donelson, John Pigg, Hugh Innes, George Rowland, Crispen Shelton, John Wilson, Peter Perkins, Abram Shelton, Theophilus Lacy, Robert Chandler, and William Witcher.

While the Virginia troops were still in their entrenchments at Gwynn's Island an express arrived from the governor ordering them to march at once against the Indians along the western frontier. The inciting of the Indians to their barbarities against defenseless frontiersman is the darkest blot on England's fair name during the Revolutionary War.

Virginia sent a force of 1,600 men against the Cherokees, while North and South Carolina sent out expeditions at the same time. Virginia's troops rendezvoused at Long Island in the Molstein River, where in the early summer a fort had been erected and named Patrick Henry in honor of the newly elected governor.

The Cherokees lived on the Tennessee river, and all things being in readiness on October the 1st, the troops set out from Fort Patrick Henry for the march of 115 miles through the wilderness to the Indian towns. Captain William Witcher was left with a guard of 200 men for the Fort.

Indian outrages continuing along the frontier, the states forces were ordered to take the field in another Indian expedition in 1777. Two companies from Pittsylvania marched in this campaign, one commanded by Captain John Donelson, ... ; the other was commanded by Captain William Witcher. Both rendezvoused at Pittsylvania Old Courthouse (Callands) in the month of March 1777.

General Nathaniel Greene assumed command of the Southern Continental Army in the autumn of 1780 at Millsboro, North Carolina, and Virginia at once sent re-inforcement's. Several companies of militia marched from Pittsylvania that autumn and winter. Captain John Winn commanded a company ... Captain James Brewer a company ... Captain William Witcher a company ... Captain Isaac Clements a company ... Captain Joshua Stone a company ... "

William married Anna Rachel Majors in 1745 in , Pittsylvania, Virginia, USA. Anna was born in 1725 in Chatham, Pittsylvania, Virginia, USA; died on 28 Apr 1776 in Chatham, Pittsylvania, Virginia, USA. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Robert married Mary Key in 1748 in , Goochland, Virginia, USA. Mary was born in 1732 in , Goochland, Virginia, USA; died on 28 Jan 1799 in , Albemarle, Virginia, USA. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Thomas married Ann Catherine Ann Howerton. Ann was born in 1730 in , Essex, Virginia, USA; died in 1777 in , Essex, Virginia, USA. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Tyree married Mary Roe. Mary was born in 1720 in , Lunenburg, Virginia, USA; died on 11 Mar 1784 in , Lunenburg, Virginia, USA. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]