Littleberry & Obediah Jenkins-Prince Edward-new info
In doing some research at the Prince Edward County Courthouse, I came across some information on both Littleberry and Obediah.In the Prince Edward County Court Order Book 4 (1767-1770), Jan. Court 1770, p. 249, The "Church Wardens of St. Patrick's Parish do bind out apprentice Obediah Jenkins according to law."The date of this occurence was January 15, 1770.I later found an entry regarding Littleberry in the Prince Edward County Court Order Book 8, Dec. Court 1786, p. 294,Dec. 18, 1786-"Littlebury Jinkins, son of __________, be bound according to law."An underline was specifically drawn according to the clerk because the transcriber was apparently unable to decipher the name.My understanding is the originals of this document are in the archives of the Library of Virginia.I had long since thought that Littleberry was born c. 1762, but based on this new information, as well as his age listed in the 1830 & 1850 census', I believe he was probably born c. 1772.The average age to be bound was 14, of course, there was the possibility of being bound out much younger than that.The 1772 birthdate, would have put Littleberry at 14 years old.We had thought for some time that Littleberry was the oldest, but it appears that Obediah was older.I intend to do further research in the court order books to see if it lists the release from their indentures which should have been at the age of 21.I also hope to view the original document at LVA to see if I can decipher the name of Littleberry's parent.I will update as I have more info.Happy hunting!