Thomas Wilbourn and Hannah Lamkin
THOMAS WILBOURN AND HANNAH LAMKIN
We decided to post this information on a gen forum, for simplicity and easy access. Often desperate researchers go to a gen forum first. We hope this post helps, clarifies things, and answers many questions . . . .
Here is how Thomas fits in our Wilbourn chain, from one generation to the next:
John – THOMAS – William – Champion – Amonet Washington –William Harvey – Ella Washington (Rae), who is our grandmother
THOMAS
Thomas was born before 1758, probably close to 1744-1748, and probably in Lunenburg County, Virginia, but possibly in the central counties of Goochland, Cumberland, and Louisa. He married Hannah Lamkin October 23, 1769, in Goochland County, where he had cousins residing. He died before March 20, 1830, in Tuscaloosa County, Alabama.
More about him:
His father John wrote up a will, August 18, 1757, Cumberland Parish, Lunenburg County, Virginia, just north of Mecklenburg County (Will Book 1, pp. 222-23). But John names no one, not even his wife, calling her instead “my beloved wife” who is to bring up “my children.” But Thomas appears in the Orphan Court as a minor, when John’s will was probated March 7, 1758 (Order Book 5, p. 35). From all the other records, Thomas came of age about 1769-1771.
He married Hannah Lamkin October 23, 1769, in Goochland County, Virginia. They appear in a number of records, in Mecklenburg County, but they move to Edgefield District, South Carolina, after 1797 and by 1799.
Thomas died intestate before March 20, 1830, when he first appears as deceased in his son William’s own probate final account, in Edgefield District, South Carolina. However, Thomas’ probate was not finished until January 14, 1835, in Tuscaloosa County, Alabama, where his estate was appraised (Inventory Book 1830-1836, pp. 345-46). His son George Wilbourn was appointed administrator. Thomas lived to be in his 80s.
Hannah Lamkin was born July 28, 1751, in Northumberland County, Virginia. She died before October 14, 1841, in Tuscaloosa County, Alabama. In fact, she probably died before the 1840 Census was taken in spring to June, same county, since she does not appear in it, though she did in the 1830 Census, living with her son George. She lived to be 89 to 90 years old.
More about her:
Her family moved from Northumberland County, Virginia, after February 22, 1760, when her brother Cleopas was born there, and February 12, 1765, when her father bought land in Lunenburg County, Virginia, in the Woodpecker Creek and Bluestone Cr. area, where Thomas lived, also.
Thomas and Hannah met in the Woodpecker and Bluestone Creeks area, but married up in Goochland County, Virginia. Why there, when they were comfortable in Mecklenburg County? Thomas’ father John had died when Thomas was a minor, and he had cousins up there, so they went north to tie the knot.
Next, she appears, though unnamed, with her husband Thomas in the 1810 Census, Edgefield District, South Carolina, as being 45+. This age does not contradict her year of birth (1751).
Then she appears, though unnamed, in the 1830 Census, Tuscaloosa County, Alabama, living with her son George and next to another son Thomas. She is marked down as between 70 and 79, and neither does this contradict her year of birth (1751).
Finally, she died intestate before October 14, 1841, when her probate was initiated in Tuscaloosa County. Her sons George and Richard were appointed administrators. In fact, she does not appear in the 1840 Census, so she most likely died before it was taken in the spring to June. Thus, she was 89-90 years old at her decease.
The four-name combination of Thomas (father) Hannah (mother), Richard (son), and George (son), all in Tuscaloosa County, Alabama, is decisive, in identifying Thomas and Hannah. Plus, their son Thomas appears next to George in the 1830 Census, so we have a five-name combination, in Tuscaloosa County, in the same timeframe. Therefore, we are tracking the right Wilbourns.
REVOLUTIONARY WAR
April 9 and 10, 1782: Thomas Wilbourn provided 325 cwt Beef, for Continental Use and about 4 bushels of corn (Mecklenburg County, VA, Order Book 5, pp. 125 and 134)
The Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) recently approved of him as a Patriot, in February 2010, as follows:
Thomas Wellborn A206628
We are very glad to give Thomas and Hannah the recognition they deserve. It is not about us today, but about them, back then. As far as we know, they never met fellow Virginians George Washington or Thomas Jefferson. Our two ancestors were not famous. But Thomas and Hannah did their fair share and had a role to play during a difficult time in our nation’s history. They deserve our gratitude, and we’re proud to bring their names and contributions to light, for us today.
For the key documents in their lives, scroll down past this long section on their children.
THOMAS AND HANNAH’S CHILDREN
Their children’s birth order could be rearranged, within limits, but this one has been chosen after an examination of all the available records.
1. WILLIAM (early to mid 1770s-1828); he is our direct line, and see more about his at this post:
http://genforum.genealogy.com/wilbourn/messages/124.htmlhttp://genforum.genealogy.com/wilbourn/messages/124.html
That link names William’s wife and children and has key documents in their lives. It also has further links to other key documents.
2. ELIZABETH (1778-1852)
3. JEREMIAH (mid to late late 1770s-1829)
4. RICHARD (mid-late 1770s to early 1850s)
5. THOMAS F. Jr. (1781-1790 to 1830+)
6. JAMES (1781-1790 to ?)
7. MORTON F. (late 1780s and early 1790s to ?)
8. GEORGE (1791-1800 to 1842)
9. DAUGHTER (1785-1795 to ?)
10. DAUGHTER (1795 to ?)
11. SON (1800 to ?)
1. WILLIAM: he’s our direct line, so see own post at this link:
http://genforum.genealogy.com/wilbourn/messages/124.htmlhttp://genforum.genealogy.com/wilbourn/messages/124.html
2. ELIZABETH
She was born in 1778, Virginia, per her 1850 Census. She married Henderson Wade, January 6 (minister’s return the 11th), 1795, in Mecklenburg County, Virginia. So she was 17 when she tied the knot. Her descendants say she died February 27, 1852, Pontotoc County, Mississippi. Henderson died December 6 or 8 (smudged), 1830, Edgefield District, South Carolina, per the records of Bethany Baptist Church there.
Sometime between Henderson’s and Elizabeth’s marriage in Mecklenburg County, Virginia, and their first appearance in the deeds, December 1797, in Edgefield District, South Carolina, they migrated to South Carolina. They were part of a large migration from Virginia, southward, into North Carolina, South Carolina, and Georgia.
Bethany Baptist Church, Edgefield District:
July 22, 1810: Henderson Wade was baptized.
January 21, 1815: Brother Wade was appointed with others to look into a theft, by John Adams, of a meal bag, and other disorderly conduct (swearing, lying, and attempting to strike with a chair). A letter was sent to the Baptist Church at Callahan’s Mill and Mountain Creek. March 21: Adams was guilty of the three charges, but not the theft. April 22: Adams had nothing to say, though summoned before the church after the service, so he was excluded from fellowship.
July 31, 1831: Burnet (Burnel?) Wade, Henderson and Elizabeth’s son, was baptized.
Transcriptions Begin:
February 1832: “On the second Lord’s Day of Feb’y Church met for prayer meeting, dore [sic: read “door”] opened received by experience two Black Members Jim and Letty his wife, both belonging to Widow [Elizabeth] Wade.”
October 4, [1831] “Lord’s Saturday before Church met dore [door] was opened when 4 was [sic] received 3 white persons and 1 Black named Ann Harrison, Hannah Wade, Ann Chiles, Sukey L. Olivers, they was [sic] all Baptized.”
Transcriptions End.
Hannah Wade was Henderson and Elizabeth’s daughter. The membership list says Hannah was baptized October 23, 1831. She received her “dismissal letter” January 15, 1833. A “Dismissal Letter” means that a member requests a letter because he’s leaving the area. He’s in good standing with the church and has its blessing.
March 25, 1832: Widow Wade’s slave Jim was baptized.
April 4 or 21, 1832: a slave named Lavinda, belonging to Widow Elizabeth Wade, was received to be baptized, along with Sukey, belonging to Robert Harrison. Lavinda was baptized that day, while Sukey was baptized May 4.
April 22, 1832: Widow Wade’s slave Letty was baptized.
August 30, 1832 (Thursday): Thomas Butler, probably Henderson and Elizabeth’s son-in-law, had the door opened to him for membership. He was baptized October 5.
January 15, 1833: Burnett (Burnel?) Wade is “dismissed by letter,” meaning he left with the church’s approval and was in good standing. Hannah Wade is also “dismissed by letter” on the same day.
January 15, 1833: Widow Wade, and probably her two slaves Jim and Letty, are also dismissed by letter.
The date of the dismissal letters gives us a hint as to the timeframe for their move to Alabama.
Censuses:
As usual, the 1810 age ranges are too broad for precision, but Henderson’s is 26-44 (born 1766-1784), and so is Elizabeth’s. Certainly hers does not contradict her 1778 year of birth. They have 2 boys under 10, 2 boys 10-15, and 2 girls under 10.
In the 1830 Census, Edgefield, South Carolina, Henderson is noted as 50-59 (born 1771-1780), and Elizabeth is 40-49 (born 1781-1790), but see the 1840 and 1850 Censuses, which are probably more accurate for her. One boy is 15-19, and 1 is 20-29; 2 girls are 10-14, and 1 is 15-19. Henderson died in December of that year, so he still appears as the head of household.
In the 1840 Census, Sumter County, Alabama, Elizabeth is named as the head of household and marked down as 60-69 years old (born 1771-1780). One son lives with her, 20-29 years old. Next door is her son John Wade; her nephew by marriage, William Webb (m. Elizabeth Wilbourn); and her son-in-law Thomas Butler, who married her daughter Rebeckah.
In the 1850 Census, Pontotoc County, Mississippi, she lives with her son Henderson Wade, a 32-year-old farmer. She’s recorded as 72 years old (= born 1778) and from Virginia. They live alone, so Henderson Jr. was unmarried and childless at that time.
Deeds:
In these Edgefield deeds, the Lamkins are related to Elizabeth (Wilbourn) Wade’s mother Hannah (Lamkin) Wilbourn. William Wilbourn is her brother, and Champion is her nephew (William’s son).
December 25, 1797: Edgefield District. Henderson Wade witnesses a bond between James McMillian (sic), planter, who is bound to George Lamkin, for $500.00 sterling money on the condition that if McMillian make title to Lamkin of 500 acres situate on waters of Cuffeetown Cr. joining NW on estate of Joseph Morton, decd, SW on estate of James Howard, and NE on land of Richard Quarles, on or before Jan. 1, 1799, then bond is of no effect, else to remain in full force. Wit: Henderson Wade, Robert (X) Wallace; signed: James McMillian; proven 25 Feb. 1806 by Henderson Wade, John Longmire, J. P. rec: 1 March 1806 (Deed Book 26, p. 398)
June 28, 1812: Edgefield District. Henderson Wade witnesses a deed between Richard and Sarah Quarles, heirs of Maj. Hugh Middleton, who sell to John Middleton. The land descended to us at death of said H. Middleton, except land laid off by Commissioners for Dower of Agness Middleton, widow of Hugh Middleton, which dower contains 131 acres lying on Savannah R. at upper end of the plantation now owned by Hezekiah Boyd; also 450 acres adjacent Grave’s Mill; also 160 acres known by Capses tract, for $420.00. All the land was laid out for widow A. Middleton. We also except one tract originally granted to Stephen Smith, containing 361 acres, known by Smith’s tract, all remaining tracts or part of tract which said Middleton died seized of which became entitles to our one-sixth share we renounce. Wit: Henderson Wade, Lucinda Quarles; signed: Richard Quarles, Sarah Quarles, 14 July 1812; proven 26 Jan. 1814 by Lucinda Quarles. Sarah Quarles relinquishes her dower rights (Deed book 31, p. 456)
December 13, 1816: Edgefield District. Matthew Mims sells to Henderson Wade 260 acres on Cuffeetown Cr., for $1200.00. Land is adjacent to Matthias Barrett, William Wilbourn, Thomas Morton, Jonathan White and said Cr., it being one of the tracts sold August 5, by order of court to effect a division among heirs of Richard Tutt, decd and purchased by said Mims; wit: Rich’d Tutt, Jacob Hibbler; signed M. Mims; plat shows 260 acres. Eliza Mims relinquishes her dower rights, 14 Feb. 1817; signed Eliza Mims; proven 29 Jan. 1817 by Richard Tutt, M. Mims, CCP; rec: 14 Feb. 1817 (Deed Book 33, p. 319-20)
March 3, 1817: Edgefield District. Henderson Wade sells 80 acres to William Wilbourn, for $400.00. The land is on the drains of Cuffeetown cr. of Stephens Cr. Wit: William Thurmond, Champin (sic) Wilbourn; signed Henderson Wade; resurveyed 7 Jan. 1817 by E. Settle, the plat shows adjoining landowners William Wilborne, Matthew Barrett, Henderson Wade, Mrs. Morton. Proven 4 March 1817 by Champin (sic) Wilborne, Robert Walker, J. P. Rec: 4 March 1817 (Deed Book 33, pp. 364-65)
As indicated by the church’s letter of dismissal (see above), during or after 1833, the family moved from South Carolina to Sumter County, Alabama. No doubt they traveled with other Wilbourns, notably her sister-in-law Cairy (Hudson) Wilbourn, who moved with her family December 1834-January 1835, to Yalobusha County, Mississippi.
February 2, 1852: Sumter County, Alabama and Pontotoc County, Mississippi. Elizabeth sells to her elder son John of Pontotoc County, for the consideration of the love and affection she bears for her son, plus one dollar, the following: E ½ of NW ½ of sec. 28, Township 23, Range 2W and E ½ of SW ¼ Sec. 21, T 23, R 2W, which are in Sumter County, Alabama. Elizabeth X Wade, John Wade. Wit: Samuel Taylor, JP (Deed Book M, pp. 757-758).
March 1, 1853: Pontotoc County, Mississippi and Sumter County, Alabama. John Wade and his wife Emily, of Pontotoc County, Mississippi, sell E ½ of NW ¼ of Sec. 28, T 23, R 23W and E ½ of SW ½ Sec 21, T 23 R 2W, containing 159 81/100 acres, for $324.00. John personally appeared before the justice of the peace, March 1, 1853. Signed John Wade and Emily Wade (Deed Book M, p. 758)
Note: A certain William Hudson sells to Burnell Wade, in Sumter County, Alabama (Deed Book I, p. 128).
Wade Henderson’s Probate (back in Edgefield, SC):
Henderson drew up a will December 5, 1830, in Edgefield, South Carolina, where it was probated, January 3, 1831. The church records of Bethany Baptist say he died December 6 or 8, 1830. So he knew his time was at hand. He made his will just in time. It is remarkable how the dates work together, once we locate them in these old documents.
Their offspring in the will: John, William, Rebeckah Butler who married Thomas Butler, Edward, Burnel (or Burnet), Hannah, Susan, and Henderson. Wife Elizabeth is appointed executrix, and sons William and Edward executors. (Will Book C, p. 338)
Here are links that look into the Wade family.
http://archiver.rootsweb.ancestry.com/th/read/VAMECKLE/2004-05/1084907402http://archiver.rootsweb.ancestry.com/th/read/VAMECKLE/2004-05/1084907402
http://files.usgwarchives.org/ms/pontotoc/bibles/wade.txthttp://files.usgwarchives.org/ms/pontotoc/bibles/wade.txt
http://familytreemaker.genealogy.com/users/e/v/a/Mary-A-Evans/GENE1-0017.htmlhttp://familytreemaker.genealogy.com/users/e/v/a/Mary-A-Evans/GENE1-0017.html
2. JEREMIAH
Jeremiah was born in the late 1770s and early 1780s. He married Mary (Polly) Hudson around 1798-1799 (his brother William married Cary Hudson, Polly’s sister, about 1793). Jeremiah and Polly moved from Virginia to Edgefield, South Carolina, with the other Wilbourns, between 1797 and1799. He died before November 2, 1829, when his will was probated, in Taliaferro County, Georgia. He predeceased his mother Hannah who lived to an advanced age. He may have predeceased his father Thomas, who died before March 20, 1830. It is not known yet when Mary (Polly) died.
Bethany Baptist Church Records:
In Edgefield District, South Carolina, Jeremiah’s slave Barnett was baptized September 23, 1810, but he was excommunicated about two years later, April 25, 1812. Here is Barnett’s story.
On March 21, 1812, George Wilbourn, Jeremiah’s brother, was called, along with John Longmire (Longmires were neighbors of the Wilbourns), to examine the case, because Barnett was reported to have been “disorderly.” George and John were to look into the circumstances and report at the next church meeting. On April 25, 1812, John and George reported that Barnett was “undoubtedly guilty of the charge (which was adultery), for which we have excluded him from our society.”
Interestingly, Jeremiah was never recorded as being a member of the church, but he allowed his slave to join.
Below, see Barnet’s name in the deed of gift from William Hudson to his son-in-law Jeremiah and daughter Polly. Barnet also appears in William Hudson’s household, in these tax records, for Mecklenburg County, Virginia:
http://www.binnsgenealogy.com/VirginiaTaxListCensuses/Mecklenburg/1790PersonalA/18.jpghttp://www.binnsgenealogy.com/VirginiaTaxListCensuses/Mecklenburg/1790PersonalA/18.jpg
http://www.binnsgenealogy.com/VirginiaTaxListCensuses/Mecklenburg/1799PersonalA/16.jpghttp://www.binnsgenealogy.com/VirginiaTaxListCensuses/Mecklenburg/1799PersonalA/16.jpg
Learn more about Barnet’s baptism and possible adultery, under George’s section, below.
In any case, thanks to Barnet, now we know we’re tracking the right people from Virginia to South Carolina.
Censuses:
The 1810 Census puts Jeremiah in the 26-44 years old column (birth range = 1766-1784). The unnamed adult female is in the 16-25 age column (birth range = 1785-1794). The earlier birth year is to be preferred, to match up more closely with Jeremiah’s age. They have only two girls under 10, so Jeremiah and Polly probably got married c. 1798-1800, probably in Mecklenburg County, Virginia, maybe just before they moved to South Carolina.
Before November 2, 1829, Jeremiah died. So he does not appear in the 1830 or 1840 Censuses. A search for him “confirms” his absence; that is, he does not turn up in the 1830 or 1840 Censuses.
The 1830 Census, Taliaferro County, Georgia shows a Mary Willbourn between 30 and 39 years old (birth range = 1791-1800), and this is too young to be Polly. Maybe the marked column is a census error. Living with her are 2 boys 10-14, and 1 boy 15-19, and no girls. Jeremiah’s daughters were not minors when he died. In fact, they were married. But Jeremiah indeed has two minor sons at this death (see his probate, below). So we have some matches with this census and his probate.
In the 1840 Census, District 11, Columbia County, Georgia, a certain Mary Willborn appears, between 60 and 69 (birth range = 1771-1780). This age fits Polly’s supposed age.
Go to this link that has a list of names and nicknames, and Polly can indeed be a nickname for Mary.
http://genealogy.about.com/library/bl_nicknames.htmhttp://genealogy.about.com/library/bl_nicknames.htm
To continue with this 1840 Census, Mary lives with 1 girl 15-19 years old, and 2 boys, 20-30. But more research needs to be done to establish her possible move to this county. Mary is a common name, and other Wilbourns, not immediately related to our lines, lived in Columbia County. Plus, there are one or two mismatches with the known facts about Jeremiah Wilbourn’s family.
Deeds:
Jeremiah first appears in the deeds in 1809, in Edgefield District, South Carolina. And to transact this kind of business, he had to be 21 or older (born no later than 1788). But this deed does not narrow down his year of birth any more than his 1810 Census does. Before his first purchase, he may have been living with his father Thomas, who, after all, owned almost 1000 acres, until Jeremiah struck out on his own to buy land.
April 20, 1809: Edgefield District. Deed of Conveyance. Richard McCary to Jeremiah Wilborn, $300.00, 100 acres on Bird Creek adjacent property line made to divide Philip Holt and John Holt. A Thomas lives on the property. Witnesses: Richard McCary, Stephen White, Samuel Thomas, John Lyon, Nancy McCary, wife of Richard M. McCary relinquishes dower April __ 1809 (day lost in binding). (Deed Book 30, p. 41)
December 26, 1809: Edgefield District. For $190.00 Mary George sells to Jeremiah Welborn 120 acres on Bird Creek of Stephens Creek and Savannah River, being part of 550 acres granted to Henry Caldwell 18 October 1774, bounding W on the creek and Richard McCrary, N. on Jeremiah Williams [word in binding] granted to James Blocker, S by James Martin. Signed: Mary (X) George. Wit Wm White, Daniel White. Proven 26 Dec by Wm White; John Lyon Q.U. Recorded 1 Jan 1810. (Deed Book 30, p. 23)
August 1, 1810: Edgefield District. Jeremiah Wilborn sells to David George, $400.00, for 100 acres; names Philip Holt and John Holt; signatories: Samuel Thomas and D. (David) White; Polly (X) Wilborn relinquishes dower June 13, 1811; John Lyon Q U (Deed Book 31, p. 15)
September 4, 1812: Edgefield District. Richard McCary sells to Jeremiah Wilbourn, $600.00; signatories: Robert Harrison, Allen Burton, Richard McCary, John Lyon, JQ, Nancy (X) McCary (but recorder writes “Nancy Martin”) relinquishes dower November 25, 1813 (Deed Book 31, p. 492)
December 29, 1813: Edgefield District. Jeremiah Wilborn sells to Ansel Talbert, Esq., $49.25, for 39 acres and four-tenths, part of 309 acres first granted to Cornelius Lofton Mar. 3, 1799; names: James Blocher, John Blocher; Signatories: Jeremiah Wilborn, Thomas Morton and Blumer Martin, Jr. Edmund Belcher, JP (Deed Book 33, p. 49)
April 6, 1814. Edgefield District. Jeremiah Wilbourn purchased from John Blocker Jr. for two hundred thirteen dollars 213 acres on Bird Creek adjacent land of Widow George, estate of Wm. Morton, Ansel Tolbert, said Jeremiah Wilbourn. (Deed Book 31, p. 520)
January 27, 1816: Edgefield District.Jeremiah Wilborn sells to Henry Martin, for $279.00, 293 acres, part of which was first granted to Henry Calwell Oct. 18, 1774, the other part to Cornelius Lofton and sold to Ansel Talbert; Jeremiah Wilbourn; witnesses, Moab Martin, Thomas Martin, Ansel Talbert, JP. (Deed Book 33, p. 229)
January 27, 1816: Edgefield District. Jeremiah Wilborn sells to Moab Martin, for $700.00, 200 acres, bounded by Henry Martin. Thomas Martin, and Richard Wibborn [sic]; Signatories: J. C. Talbert, Henry Martin, Jeremiah Wilbourn, Ansel Talbert, JP, and Henry Martin (Deed Book 33, p. 187)
Probate (other than Jeremiah’s):
April 4, 1817: Edgefield District. Stephen Garrett v. Jeremiah Wilborn. Jeremiah is administrator of the estate of Peter Farrer Jr. Peter Farrar Sr. pledged to Garrett a Negro boy London as security for payment of $247 which Garrett paid in discharge of a prior mortgage. London was quite small at the time. Garrett took out mortgage on other Negroes since dead. Garrett has never received payment. Jeremiah Willborn, administrator of Peter Farrar Jr., on alleged verbal gift of said Negro to Peter Farrar Jr. by his grandfather the said Peter Farrar Sr. about 20 years ago, which Negro remained in possession of Peter Farrar Sr. About three years ago, when he was about to leave the state, he took from Peter Farrar Sr. a written mortgage of this Negro. Peter Farrar Jr. died about 16 years ago. (Equity Court Records #14)
Deed of gift:
Polly’s father William Hudson deed-gifted some of his property to her on November 28, 1809, in Edgefield District, South Carolina, and it says she’s married to Jeremiah (Deed Book 30, p. 40).
Here’s a transcription:
William Hudson to J. Wilborn & Wife, Deed Gift
South Carolina
Edgefield District
Know all men by these presents that I William Hudson of the district and state aforesaid for and in consideration of the natural love and affection which I have and do bear toward, my beloved Son in Law Jeremiah Wilborn and Polly Wilborn, them and their heirs forever the following Property, to wit: one negroe [sic] fellow named Barnett one negroe [sic] boy named Emmanuel, Two mares and a colt and one Cow and Yearling and Sundry other Articles of household furniture, all of which property is herewith delivered To have and to hold to their proper behest [?] and behoof. And I do hereby bind my Self and my Heirs to warrant and defend the right and title to the said property from the claim of all and every person or persons whomoever. In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this twenty-eighth day of November 1809.
Signed, sealed and delivered in the presents [sic] of in Anderson Crawford, Jo’ Fields
William (X) Hudson
South Carolina,
Edgefield District
Personally appeared Anderson Crawford who being duly sworn made oath that he did see William Hudson sign seal and as his act and Deed deliver the written Instrument of writing to and for the uses and purposes within mentioned and did also see Joseph Fields with himself subscribe his name as a witness to the due execution thereof.
Sworn to before me the 28th day of November 1809, Anderson Crawford [sic, read Crowder?]
John Lyon, Q.U.
Recorded 8th February 1810
Transcription Ends.
Jeremiah’s Probate:
Finally, Jeremiah drew up a will December 22, 1828, in Taliaferro County, Georgia, where it was probated November 2, 1829, so we can conclude he died between those two dates (Will Record A, pp. 64-65). Their children in the will and inventory of the estate: James, Thomas (minor), George (minor), Eliza Lawson, Juliann Daniel. Executors: A. B. Linton and Simon Morris Jr. Wit: R. A. Steele, George Hixson, and L. B. K. Freeman.
It is not known so far when and where Mary (Polly) died.
Note: This section on Jeremiah improves on the previous post, here:
http://genforum.genealogy.com/wilbourn/messages/84.htmlhttp://genforum.genealogy.com/wilbourn/messages/84.html
4. RICHARD
He was born 1771-1780. He married Permelia Minter most likely 1808-1809. She was born 1781-1790. His descendants say he migrated to Texas and died in about 1856, DeWitt County, Texas. It is not known to us (so far) when and where Permelia died.
Their (probable) children:
Mack G. is involved with Richard in deeds in Sumter County, Alabama (see below), and is most likely named after his maternal grandfather Mackerness Minter.
Thomas: he too is involved with Richard in deeds in Sumter County.
George: the same involvement, same place.
Per the censuses, there are more (unnamed) children living with Richard, but the above three sons are the only ones we have been able to document so far.
Censuses:
1790 Census, St. Stephen’s Parish, Charleston, South Carolina. It could be that Richard Wilburn is in this census. He is a free white male, 16 years and up, single. But this identification with the Richard in Edgefield is not certain.
http://content.ancestry.com/Browse/view.aspx?dbid=5058&path=South+Carolina.Charleston.St+Stephens.1&fn=Richard&ln=Wilburn&st=r&pid=378146&rc=&zp=100http://content.ancestry.com/Browse/view.aspx?dbid=5058&path=South+Carolina.Charleston.St+Stephens.1&fn=Richard&ln=Wilburn&st=r&pid=378146&rc=&zp=100
The right Richard for sure appears in the 1820 Census, Edgefield District, South Carolina. He is marked as 26-44 years old (birth range = 1776-1794). One female is 16-25 (birth range = 1795-1804), the earlier year is to be preferred, or this is a census error. Richard and Pemelia have four kids (two boys and two girls) under ten years old, and only in that age range, so Richard and Permelia mostly likely married c. 1808-1809. One family tradition says he was married twice, and Permelia is his second wife, but more research needs to be done on that one point.
A certain Richard is found in the 1830 Census, Greene County, Alabama. He is between 40 and 49 (birth range = 1781-1790), too young, compared to the 1840 Census (next). A female is between 30 and 39 (birth range = 1791-1800). They have 1 boy under 5; 1 is 10-14; and 2 boys are 15-19. They have 2 girls under 5; 1 is 5-9; and 1 is 15-19. There are mismatches with the 1840 Census, next. Plus, we were unable to find any deed records for Richard in this county. Finally, their neighbors in Greene County do not figure prominently in Edgefield District, so caution must be used with this census in identifying the right Richard. We place it here for your further review.
However, the right Richard appears in the 1840 Census, Sumter County, Alabama. He is marked down as aged 60-69, so his birth range is 1771-1780. That’s more accurate than the 1830 Census. Therefore, he could have been born in the mid to late 1770s (see his 1820 Census). One female is between 50 and 59 (birth range 1781-1790), and that fits the facts for his wife Permelia better than the 1820 Census. One boy is under 5; 2 are 5-9 (probably grandchildren); 2 are 15-19; and 2 are 20-29. The girls: 1 is 5-9 (a grandchild?); and 2 are 10-14. Richard had many children, so maybe the younger children in the 1840 Census are grandchildren. It is not impossible that the grandparents took care of at least one grandkid, as it happened in our Ryland lineage.
His residence in Sumter County matches up with other Wilbourns who moved there, like his sister Elizabeth (Wilbourn) Wade and his nephew (by marriage) William Webb and niece Elizabeth (Wilbourn) Webb. The location would still allow him to be the administrator of his deceased mother Hannah’s estate, along with his brother George, back in Tuscaloosa County, Alabama, 1841-1844.
Court of General Sessions (Criminal):
In Richard’s younger days, it seems he got into a fight or two – or was accused of doing this.
Note: Lamkin is Richard’s mother Hannah’s maiden name. The James named below is likely her brother or nephew. In the 1780s, the Lamkins moved from Mecklenburg County, Virginia, and settled across the Savannah River in Columbia County, Georgia. Her father James died there before July 9, 1791.
1806: Edgefield District. October Term, the State vs. Richard Wilburn: Assault and battery. True Bill
1821 Fall Term: Edgefield District.Minutes of the Court, the State vs. Richard Wilborn: Larceny. Not guilty
October Term 1822: Edgefield District.Judgments and Readings.
Declaration Assums: Richard Wilborn and James Lamkins are ordered to pay Aaron Tullis, Morse Tullis, and Blumer White, executors of Morse Tullis, deceased, the amount of the promissory note dated February 3, 1821: $204.40; David [?] Bird, CCP; Peter Atty (?) orders them to pay
Fall Term 1822: Edgefield District. Richard Welborn served on Common Pleas Jury
1824 Fall Term of Court: Edgefield District. The State vs. Richard Wellborn: Assault & Battery. No bill.
Deeds:
Richard first appears in the Edgefield deeds in 1812, and to transact business at this level, he had to be at least 21 (born no later than 1791), but this does not help very much in pinning down his year of birth. Long before his first purchase, he was probably settling his father Thomas’s property, who, after all, owned almost 1000 acres.
May 6, 1812: Edgefield District. Deed of Conveyance. Mackerness Minter sells to Richard Wilbourn, $300.00, for 100 acres; Witnesses: Mackerness Minter, Anderson Crowder, Henry Key, John Key, JP (Deed Book 31, p. 115)
March 30, 1814: Edgefield District. Mackless (sic) Minter sells to Edward Holmes, 96 acres, for 240 dollars, being part of 100 acres originally granted to William Minter by Gov. William Bull 23 June 1774, situate on Turkey Cr. of Savannah r., adjacent land held by Ed Holmes, Mack Minter, plat endorsed by Charles Corsey, D. S. Wit: Wm Corsey, Mack Minter; In a plat survey redone March 25, 1814, Richard Wibbourn (sic) owns land adjacent to Edward Holmes, Mackless (sic) Minter (Deed Book 31, p. 503)
August 7, 1815: Edgefield District.Richard Wilbourn owns property adjacent 200 acres being sold by Tandy M. Key and Samuel Key to Gabriel Key. The location was on Turkey Creek, Robert Cockran, Richard Wilbourn and William Wash. (Deed Book 32, p. 325).
May 7, 1816: Edgefield District. Richard Wilborn witnessed a deed from Robert Key Esqr to John Hollingsworth for property on Beaverdam Creek. Richard (X) Wilbourn. Robert Key’s wife Martha relinquished her dower. (Deed Book 33, p. 211)
December 27, 1816: Edgefield District. Richard Wilbern had property adjacent to some that Francis Lowe was selling to John Wash on Turkey Creek. The other adjoining owners were Robert Cockran, Wm Wash, and Goffs branch. Wit: William Jones, Richard Wash; signed: Francis Lowe; Elizabeth Lowe relinquishes her dower rights 22 Jan. 1818 (Deed Book 35, p. 3)
November 29, 1817: Edgefield District. Deed. Thomas Wilbourn sells to Richard Wilbourn for three hundred dollars 40 acres on Cuffeetown Creek adjacent lands of William Wilbourn, Mathew Barrett, heirs of John Longmire and aforesaid Thomas Wilbourn. Thos. (X) Wilbourn. (Deed Book 36, p. 225)
April 11, 1818: Edgefield District. Deed. Richard Wilborn sells to Edward Holmes for $438.75 for eighty-seven and three-fourths acres; the land passed from Governor and Commander-in Chief Bull ____ [word lost in binding] to William Minter on June 23, 1774, then to his son Macness Minter and then to Richard Wilborn on April 29, 1812; signatories: Martin Buress, Ambrose (X) Price, Richard (X) Wilborn, John Lyons [sic], Pamela [sic] X Wilborn (wife of Richard) relinquishes dower April 11, 1818 (Deed Book 35, p. 158)
February 1, 1819. Edgefield District.Champin Wilburn [this is our Champion] witnessed and proved a sale of land by Rebecca Minter to William Minter. The heirs of Mackerness Minter were: William Minter, Permelia Wilburn (formerly Permelia Minter) [wife of Richard Wilbourn], Martha Ann Key (formerly Martha Ann Minter), Macerness Minter, James Minter, Ebenezer Minter and John Minter. (Deed Book 35, p. 338)
Feb 1?, 1822: Edgefield District. Release for Lot. Richard Wilborn to James Tutt, $200.00; witnesses: William Thurmond, Henry Evans; signed Richard (X) Wilborn; Permela (X) Wilbourn, wife of Richard Wilborn relinquished dower October 1, 1824. Day of sale was left blank. No acreage given, but a map is drawn from a survey done by E Settle on Feb. 2, 1822. (Deed Book 42, p. 281)
March 26, 1823: Edgefield District. Edmund Belcher sells to Wm. H. Turpin. By virtue of writ from Court of Common Pleas, first Monday in October 1822, at suit of John Tarrance and James Clark and others v. John Turpin and others, sheriff of lands and chattels of John Turpin of Georgia to levy sum of [number lost in binding] hundred and nine dollars and 27 cents, damages, plus costs. Sheriff seized six hundred acres in Edgefield District, whereon John Longmire formerly lived and late the residence of Henry S. Burton on Cuffeetown Creek of Stephens Cr., adjacent Matthew Barret, William Yeldell, and Richard Wilborne. Land exposed to sale at public auction and was purchased by John Gray for William Turpin of Georgia for 1,200.00, 2 Dec. 1822; signed: E. B. Belcher, SED; wit: E. J. Youngblood; Judge Samuel Blackwell of Columbia County Georgia certifies that Sally Turpin relinquishes her dower right. (Deed Book 40, p. 149-53)
January 14, 1825: Edgefield District. Deed. Richard Wilborn is indebted to Robert Perrin for $300.00, payable in two days, so Wilborn sells seventy or eighty acres of his land to Perrin, unless Richard pay $300.00 before Apr. 1, next; Richard’s land is bounded by William Yeldell [sic] and Matthew Barrett; signatories: Peter Buffington, James Wall, Richard (X) Wilborn, and Patrick Gibson, JQ. (Deed Book 41, p. 194)
February 3, 1826: Edgefield District. Deed. Richard Wilborn sells to Cadwell Evans for $381.00; no acreage given, but boundaries; signatories: Richard (X) Wilborn, Blumer White, LG Dawson, Thomas W. Morton, Justice of Quorum; Permela (X) Wilbourn (wife of Richard) relinquishes dower February 10, 1826; AB Addison (Deed Book 41, pp. 411-12)
In the next deeds, it seems Richard and family moved from Edgefield District, South Carolina, and to Tuscaloosa County, Alabama, probably in the 1830s, probably just like his sister Elizabeth (Wilbourn) Wade.
June 20, 1838: Sumter County, Alabama. Mack Wilborn sells 80 ¼ acresto Richard Willborn; the land is in W ½ of SE ¼ Sec. 29, Township 20, Range 2 wit: Charles Hinsdall and E. Price (no dower relinquishment section) (Deed Book D, p. 607).
March 28, 1840: Sumter County. George Wilbourn sells to Richard Wilbourn 80 acres, for $2000.00, specifically W ½ of SW ½ Sec. 29 Township 20 Range 2. Wit: Mack Wilbourn, James R. Philips; signed George Wilborn; Mac G. Wilborn acknowledges that George signed the deed. (Deed Book E, p. 415)
April 14, 1840: Sumter County. Richard Wilbourn and wife Pame[la] sell to John Boykin of Troup County, Georgia, 320 acres, specifically, W ½ of SE ¼, Section 29, Township 20, Range 2 W and E ½ of SE ½ Sec. 29 T 20 R 2 W, for $8,000.00. Wit: Thomas Wilborn; Richard X Wilbourn, Pame (sic) Wilbourn. Sometimes the clerk spells her name Amelia, but then abbreviates Pamela to “Pame.” Her name was Permelia. Thomas may be Richard’s son. (Deed Book D, p. 715)
July 24, 1840: Sumter County. James Walls sells 320 13/100 acres to Mack G. Wilborn, specifically S ½ of Sec. 17, Township 15, Range 5 (but difficult to read due to light ink); wit: John P. Jones and Richard X Wilborn (Deed Book D, pp. 801-802)
January 4, 1841: Sumter County. Richard Wellborne sells to Thomas Wellborn various crops and livestock, for $2000.00. Wit: Isaiah Coleman, Jer. H. Brown; Richard X Wellborn (Deed Book E, p. 651).
January 4, 1841: Sumter County. Richard Willborn sells slaves to Thomas Willborn: Alfred (24); Mary (24) and her two children Sofa (3) and Sampson (1); Meinda / Manda (18); Millie (26) and three children Gill (8), Charlotte (4), Solomon (1); Patsy (?) (24) and two children Nelson (7) and Charles (3); Let (34) and three children Mary (8), Hulda (5), and Liza (6 mos); John (55); Antony (15), Bill (15). Signed Richard X Willbone (sic); wit: Isaiah Coleman and Jeremiah Brown. The clerk writes at bottom of the page: “Delivered.” (no price, as I recall) (Deed Book E, p. 656)
In 1837, Sumter County, James R. Philips sells various articles and livestock to Thomas Wilborn; $675.00 due January 1, 1838, and $750.00 due January 1, 1839. Wit: James N. Philips; John L (or S) Dobey; signed Thomas Wilborn; Clerk writes across deed: Satisfaction July 15, 1840 Thomas Wilborn (Deed Book D, pp. 715-16)
Richard’s Father-in-Law’s Probate:
1821-1822. Edgefield District. Richard appears in his father-in-law Mackerness Minter’s Inventory and Appraisement. Also, Minter died intestate, and Richard and others petition to have the estate partitioned. Richard’s wife is Permelia Minter.
Richard’s descendants say he died in DeWitt County, Texas, about in 1856.
Note: this section on Richard improves on his post here:
http://genforum.genealogy.com/wilbourn/messages/83.htmlhttp://genforum.genealogy.com/wilbourn/messages/83.html
5. THOMAS F.
Identifying him is complicated. We begin in Edgefield District, South Carolina.
The elder Thomas is sometimes named Sr., so logically there has to be a Jr. Thomas F. is that Jr. He witnessed an 1808 deed. To be a witness, he had to be at least 21 years old, so he had to be born in or before 1787. Here’s the 1808 deed:
April 14, 1808: Edgefield District. William Wilbourn received a bond from Thomas Evans and wife Elizabeth to make good title to 122 and ½ acres on Cuffeetown Creek, to be paid before December 25, 1808. The property adjoined those of Thomas Wilbourn, Sr. Jacob Hibler, and Mary Ann Morton, and known by the name of Liberty Hill, whereon William Wilbourn now resides; witnessed by Thomas F. Wilbourn and Jeff Sharpton, June 2, 1810. (Deed Book 30, p. 136)
So what happened to Thomas after 1808?
There are at least two options.
Option #1:
Thomas settled in Putnam County, Georgia.
In the 1820 Census, Capt. James Berry’s District, Putnam County, Georgia, Thomas Wilbourn is found. One male is 45+ over and 2 are 10-15. One female is also 45+, and 1 is under 10, and 1 is 10-15. They own 16 slaves. His appearance in the 1820 Census explains why his deed records in Edgefield are so sparse.
Significantly, he left a will, written February 27, 1826, in Putnam County, Georgia. The will is complicated, as if it has checks and balances.
Wife: Mary
Son: Levi T., who is appointed sole trustee for Thomas’s daughter Patsy Cowan and for his son John R. Levi is appointed executor.
Son: John R., who is appointed executor. Thomas has a mercantile firm in the town of Madison, Morgan County, and in the city of Augusta, and John is not liable to them. John married Martha King, December 21, 1826.
Daughter: Esther Bramlett (?), who married Jesse H. and resides in Alabama. Jesse is appointed sole trustee for Sarah Tindall, because Thomas has special trust in him.
Daughter: Martha (Patsy) Cowan
Daughter: Elizabeth Clark
Son: Marshall T.
Daughter: Sarah (Sally) Tindall, who married John May 12, 1818, and resides in Alabama.
Daughter: Permelia
Witnesses: Robert T. C. Tucker, Frederick Ward, and Alex’r Reid
Will written: February 27, 1826
Will Probated / Recorded: September 11, 1826; this means he died by that date, predeceasing his (probable) parents Thomas Sr. and Hannah, just like (our) William and Jeremiah predeceased them. Thomas Jr., (Our) William, and Jeremiah were brothers
Note: Nancy Wilborn married Frederick Duffee May 1, 1811, in Putnam County, Georgia. This may be the eldest child who predeceased her parents Thomas and Mary or was excluded from the will or is their niece or related in some other way.
Normally, Thomas would not necessarily be considered a son of Thomas Sr. and Hannah, for Thomas is a very common name. But a copy of the will is found in the probate records, Tuscaloosa County, Alabama. Clearly, one or both of Thomas’s daughters Esther and Sarah reside in this county. Recall that Thomas Sr. and Hannah also resided and died in this county. It simply cannot be a coincidence that Esther or Sarah or both moved there too.
Further, on January 20, 1838, Sumter County, Alabama, Levi T. Wilbourn sells one slave named Charles, 19, to John Chaim (?), for $1000.00; wit: Pardon Bosworth (Deed Book G, p. 359). Recall that this is where Elizabeth (Wilbourn) Wade and Richard Wilbourn reside at this time. They are Thomas’s brother and sister, or perhaps cousins, if the second option is valid.
Sources for the will: Putnam County, Georgia, Will Book B, pp. 57-60, and Tuscaloosa County, Alabama, Will Book A, pp. 39-43. Source for marriages: Edward F. Hull, Early Records of Putnam County, George 1807-1860, Old Cemeteries, Wills, and Marriages (self-published, no date).
Option #2:
A certain Thomas is single, in the 1830 Census, Tuscaloosa County, Alabama. He appears next to George Wilbourn and an elderly woman (70-79) who lives with George (see him, below). Thomas is marked down as 40-49, so his birth range is 1781-1790.
Does he have no family? Historical probability says he would have a family. And two candidates fit the bill as sons.
The first one may be Elias Wilbourn, who appears in the Edgefield records.
Court of General Sessions (Criminal):1824 Fall: Edgefield District.The State vs. Elias Wilborn: Assault & Battery. Not guilty.
Elias Willborn is also in the 1830 Census, Tuscaloosa County, Alabama (recall that this is the county where Thomas Sr. and Hannah settled). Elias is 20-29, and a female is also 20-29. One boy is under 5.
The second son is Isaac, who lives next to Elias and who is also 20-29. One female is 20-29, and one boy is under 5.
So Elias and Isaac are the right age to be Thomas Jr.’s son and to strike out on their own with young families, in the same county as Thomas Sr. and Thomas Jr. (possibly). And no doubt Thomas Jr. had other kids too.
Wrapping up the two options, it is difficult to imagine two opposites. One Thomas is shown as married. He left a will that shows he had a big family (mostly) of non-minors or grownups. He is dead by September 11, 1826. The other Thomas is unmarried and aged 40-49 in 1830.
But both have connections to elder Thomas and Hannah, on some level.
My own hunch is that the second option is best. Thomas who actually resided next to elderly Hannah and her son George in the 1830 Census is the son of Thomas Sr. and Hannah, and Elias and Isaac are two of Thomas Jr.’s sons.
But you decide between the two options. Or come up with a third.
6. JAMES
He appears once in an Edgefield deed concerning land on Deep Steep Cr. of Stephen’s Cr. and the Savannah R., September 8, 1808. He had to be at least 21 years old to be a witness, so he could not have been born after 1787. In the 1830 Census he is listed as 40-49, so his birth range is 1781-1790, which fits his coming of age around 1808.
Censuses:
We have looked for James in the censuses, and several appear, but James is a very common first name, so which one is the right one is unclear.
Deeds:
September 8, 1808: Edgefield District. Deed. James Wilborn is a witness to a deed. Martin Hitt sells to Samuel Crafton for $147.75, 98 ½ acres, lying on Deep Steep Branch between Stephen’s Creek and Savannah River, being part of land granted to Peter Morgan 2 Feb. 1795 and resurveyed 9 Aug. 1808.
Court of General Sessions (Criminal):
April 1816: Edgefield District: David Mims vs. James Wilbourn – Sum: Pro Dozier: Decree for the sum of twenty dollars and seventy-six cents and costs
7. MORTON F.
He appears in an Edgefield deed, dated November 25, 1813, the plat (map) saying he owns land near his father Thomas on Cuffeetown Cr. The deed shows father Thomas selling land to (our) William (son #1, above).
November 25, 1813: Edgefield District. Deed. Thomas Wilbourn sells to William Wilbourn. $425.00, paid by William Wilbourn, 232 acres. Witnesses: Edmund Settle, Cadwell Evans, John Lyon, Q.U.; signed: Thomas (X) Wilbourn. Plat shows 85 acres adjacent lands of Thomas Wilbourn, Morton F. Wilbourn, Bennett, and course of Cuffeetown Creek. Thomas Wilbourn and William Wilbourn have neighboring farms. (Deed Book 31, p. 493-94)
However, since Morton nowhere appears in the deeds as actually purchasing land, it is probable Thomas Sr. gave him some of his. Recall that in 1799, Thomas Sr. had bought 500 acres of three tracts (Deed Book 17, pp. 251-54), and was granted 490 acres, for a very good price, also on Cuffeetown Cr. Possession is nine-tenths of the law. Sometimes the old-timers did not write out deeds, particularly for their offspring, though often they did.
Morton most likely came of age around 1813, so he was born in the late 1780s to early 1790s. Thomas Sr. lived near the Morton family, so it could be the case Thomas named this son in honor of them, but that’s unconfirmed.
Morton is not a common name, so he should be easy to detect in the census records, and a search has been done. But we have come up empty, looking even under “Martin.”
However, in the 1830 Census, Thomas Sr.’s son George (see him next) has two unnamed men living with him, marked down as 30-39, same age range as George. Could one be Morton?
Anyway, it is not known whom Morton married, or when and where he died.
8. GEORGE
He was born 1791-1800. He married Susannah (last name unknown) about 1818-1820. Sometime in or after 1821, they moved to Tuscaloosa County, Alabama, with his parents Thomas and Hannah. After Susannah died, George remarried to Virginia. He died before December 20, 1842, Tuscaloosa County, where his estate inventory is taken. It is not yet known when Susannah died, but she does not appear in the 1840 Census, so she most likely passed away before it was taken in the spring to June. This absence also explains why she does not appear in the inventory of George’s estate. Virginia, George’s second wife, died before January 1, 1847, when her final accounts were in the process of being settled.
Bethany Baptist Church, Edgefield District:
George does not appear in the Edgefield deeds, but he does in Bethany Baptist Church minutes and membership list, being baptized July 22, 1810 (the same day his brother-in-law Henderson Wade was baptized). Susannah Wilbourn was baptized September 6, 1810. On March 21, 1812, George was called, along with John Longmire (Longmires are neighbors of the Wilbourns), to examine the case of Barnet, a black member of the church, because he was reported to have been disorderly. (He is recorded as being baptized September 23, 1810, and belonging to Jeremiah.) George and John were to look into the circumstances and report at the next church meeting. On April 25, 1812, John and George reported that Barnet was “undoubtedly guilty of the charge (which was adultery), for which we have excluded him from our society.” (For more information, find George’s brother Jeremiah, above.)
Per these same church records, May 27, 1820, we find the following:
“Also Brother George Wilbourn and Sister Susannah Wilbourn, having removed [moved away] without make application for Letter of dismission [dismissal], and whereas Brother George Wilbourn has since returned back into the settlement he has left, and during the time he tarried, he made no application to the church, nor did not attend meeting, but again has returned without a letter, the Church therefore nominated clerk to to [sic] write to them to enquire the cause of their proceeding.”
Transcription Ends.
However, “application being made by Sister Susannah Wilbourn for a letter of dismission [dismissal] the Church granted her request and directed the clerk to prepare and send the same.” So the letter was granted to her, May 26, 1821. No doubt that since George is not found in the deeds as having purchased any land, his “settlement” was a portion of his father Thomas’s nearly 1000 acres.
But George’s case was not closed. On August 25, 1821, the church would “again request the clerk to write to Brother George Wilborn to shew cause why he has not answered the letter that we have already wrote [sic] to him, if he has received it.” July 22, 1822, the church “requested Brother Edmund Belcher to write to Mr. George Wilborn to know whether he has received the letter which we have before directed to him – and also to Sister Tutt requesting her to give us all the information she can relative to Mr. Wilborn’s conduct.”
The matter seems to have been dropped without a satisfactory answer, for it does not reappear in the church minutes thereafter.
Censuses:
George appears in the 1830 Tuscaloosa County, Alabama Census, marked down between 30 and 39 years old (birth range = 1791-1800). A female is 20-29 (birth range = 1801-1810), the earliest year in the birth range is to be preferred. One female resides with them, aged 70-79. Clearly this is George’s mother Hannah, who was born July 28, 1751. (Sure enough, her probate is found there). In the 1830 Census, 1 boy is under 5, and 2 girls are also under 5. Oddly, two more males are marked down as 30-39. Could they be George’s brothers like Morton who moved with him and their parents Thomas and Hannah?
George appears in the 1840 Tuscaloosa County Census, and his age is 40-49. His mother Hannah does not live with him. In fact, the two oldest girls are 10-14, so clearly George’s wife Susannah died before the census was taken from spring to June.One girl is under 5. One boy is 5-9; 1 is 10-14; and 1 is 20-29.
Probate (other than George’s):
Most significantly, George appears in his bother William Wilbourn’s estate account (son #1, above), back in Edgefield District, South Carolina, March 30, 1830, as the administrator of the elder Thomas, decd, father of both George and William. William is our direct line.
Part of William’s numerous final account tables reads:
Transcription Begins:
Account Current with Peter H. Wilbourn Extr Cary Wilbourn Extrix
20 March 1830
Rec’d of William Minter apc George Wilbourn Adm’r of the Estate of Thomas Wilbourn decd Cr[edit] $125.00
Transcription Ends.
So now we know the “patriarch” Thomas died before that date. This three-name combination of Thomas (father), George (son and administrator), and William (son) is decisive. We’re looking at one family, and this is near-legal proof of the father and son relationships, though no record says “father and son,” for Thomas died intestate (no will), in Tuscaloosa County, Alabama.
Also, George and his brother Richard were appointed administrators of their mother Hannah’s meager estate by October 14, 1841, Tuscaloosa County. So now we know she died before that date, and most likely before the 1840 Census was taken in the spring, up to June, for she’s absent from it.
To sum up this section, it is now clear that William, George, and Richard are three of Thomas and Hannah’s sons.
George’s Probate:
George died intestate (no will), before December 20, 1842, when the inventory of his estate was taken, in Tuscaloosa County (Inventory Book 7, pp. 139-43). This date of death explains why he was appointed administrator of his mother Hannah’s estate in 1841, but then drops out of her records. Her probate, meager as can be, was not yet wrapped up even by 1844. These delays in settling her probate are probably due to her son George’s death, complicating the closing o0f her estate.
In the sale of George’s property and the final account, these Wilbourn names are given:
Eliza Wilborn is named a legatee.
W. M. Wilborn is named a legatee.
G. W. Wilborn owes rent to George, decd. (probably his son George Jr.). On December 24, 1842, a deed says George W. co-owns a “Grocery House” and lot with Stephen May and John F. Cooper, in Havanna, Greene County, Alabama. George sells off his share for $4000.00. (Deed Book M, p. 645)
Susan G. Wilson figures often in the final account, and she may be the married daughter of George and Susan.
Richard Wilborn owes rent to George, decd. Richard is very probably George’s brother (see Richard’s section, above)
Virginia Wilbourn’s Probate:
She died intestate (no will), before January 1, 1847, so the court appointed guardians for these children, stated as minors:
John C. Wilbourn: he is sent to Havanna, Alabama, for schooling.
Miss Virginia L. Wilbourn
Miss Frances Wilbourn
Champion Wilbourn [note: no doubt he is named after his cousin Champion, our direct line]
Non-minor children who are also named in Virginia’s final accounts:
Wm L. (sic)
Eliza Ann
Susan G. Wilson
G. W. Wilbourn
The relative ages match up with census records, and the names match up in the mutual probate papers of George and Virginia. Therefore, George married twice: (1) Susannah and (2) Virginia.The non-minor children both in George’s and Virginia’s final accounts are probably Susannah’s.
Source: Tuscaloosa County Probate Inventory is placed in alphabetical order.
9. DAUGHTER
In the 1810 Census, Edgefield District, South Carolina, one female, unnamed, is marked in the 16-25 age group, living in Thomas Wilbourn’s household, so she was born 1785-1794.Since Edgefield kept no marriage records back then, we don’t know what her married last name is or where she moved, if she did.
10. DAUGHTER
In the 1810 Census, Edgefield District, South Carolina, one female, unnamed, appears in the 10-15 age group, living in Thomas Wilbourn’s household, so she was born 1795-1800. Since Edgefield kept no marriage records back then, we don’t know what her married last name is or where she moved.
11. SON
In the 1810 Edgefield Census, an unnamed male under 10 years old is noted, living in Thomas Wilbourn’s household. A certain Caleb appears once in an Edgefield deed, August 29, 1821 (Deed Book 38, p. 249). Caleb could be this boy. If he was 9 years old in 1810, then he was born c. 1800-1801. That means his mother Hannah was giving birth in her late 40s, not an impossible feat.
Or Caleb could be a son of the older Wilbourn offspring, a grandson of Thomas and Hannah. It was not impossible that grandparents took care of a grandson (it happened in our Ryland lineage), and that’s why he appears so young in the 1810 Census. Or the 1810 Census marked a son down in the wrong age column.
A certain Caleb appears in the 1846 Republic of Texas Poll Lists of 1846. He lives in DeWitt County. His place of origin is not listed. It is interesting that Richard Wilbourn (child #4, above) is said to have died in DeWitt County, also.
However, since we don’t have enough information about Caleb’s connection to Thomas Sr., it is best to say we don’t know (so far) who Thomas Sr.’s youngest son was.
THOMAS AND HANNAH IN VIRGINIA
Thomas and Hannah have a three-state journey: Virginia, South Carolina, and Alabama.
For more about Thomas’s father John, go here:
http://genforum.genealogy.com/wilbourn/messages/104.htmlhttp://genforum.genealogy.com/wilbourn/messages/104.html
At that link, you will find Thomas in a few Lunenburg County, Virginia records and in his father John’s probate. Also, see John’s own post.
For more about Thomas’s own documents, early on in Virginia, before his move to South Carolina, go here:
http://genforum.genealogy.com/wilbourn/messages/105.htmlhttp://genforum.genealogy.com/wilbourn/messages/105.html
Thomas and Hannah’s marriage (scroll down):
http://genforum.genealogy.com/wilbourn/messages/98.htmlhttp://genforum.genealogy.com/wilbourn/messages/98.html
THOMAS AND HANNAH IN SOUTH CAROLINA:
The 1810 Edgefield Census places Thomas in the 45+ age column, allowing him to be a minor in his father’s probate back in Lunenburg County, VA, in 1758. One male is 16-25; one male is 10-15; and one male is under 10. One female (Hannah, though unnamed) is 45+; one female is 16-25; and one is 10-15.
Deeds:
February 6, 1799: Thomas Bacon of St. Peter’s Parish of Beaufort District to Thomas Wilburn Sr. of Edgefield District: £200.00 sterling, which he paid on February 6, 1799, for three tracts of land, bounded by Garret Longmere, Jacob Shibly, land “called Sally Boovcy” (sic), Matthew Barrett, James McMillians, Abner McMillians, William Hall; signatories: Thomas Bacon, Allan Williams, Mary (Cary?) (X) Bryant, Charles Jones Brown, JQ [Justice of Quorum], Martha Bacon dower relinquishment Feb. 6, 1799, wife of Thomas Bacon. (Deed Book 17, pp. 251-54)
February 12, 1799: Thomas is a witness to Jacob Hibler selling land to William Bobbett. Thomas signs with his mark. (Deed Book 16, p. 571)
May 5, 1800: Ninety-Six District, of Edgefield County. Thomas Wilbourn receives 490 acres on both sides of Cuffeetown Creek. The land is bounded by Matthew Barrett’s, Mortonson’s, Thomas Lavins’s, William Hulls (?), Garrett Longmire’s, and Jacob Shiveley. The index of land grants shows that he is the only Thomas Wilbourn in the entire state at this time. His family also first appears near Cuffeetown Cr.in the deed records (volume 46, p. 404)
December 21, 1802: Thomas Wellbourn owns property adjacent to land that Silas Pace was selling to Russell Squyars. No landmarks are noted in the deed. (Deed Book 22, pp. 425-27)
February 8, 1805: Thomas Willbourn owned property adjacent to land Russell Squires who was selling to William Raney on Cuffeetown Creek. (Deed Book 26, p. 96)
July 5, 1806: Thos. Wilbon (sic) had property adjoining land that William Hall of Abbeville District was selling to Allen Burton on Cuffeetown Creek in Edgefield District. Plat shows adjacent lands of John Pace, Wm Ramsay, John Williams, Jacob Hibbler, road from Cambridge to Scotts Ferry and road to Court House, dwelling house, Spring, Garrett Longmire, James Hall and Rugeley. Plat was surveyed 10 Jun 1805. (Deed Book 27, p. 409)
April 14, 1808: William Wilborn received a bond from Thomas Evans and wife Elizabeth to make good title to 122 and half acres of Cuffeetown Creek to be paid before 25 Dec 1808. The property adjoined Thomas Wilborn, Sen’r, Jacob Hibler, and Mary Ann Morton and known by the name of Liberty Hill whereon said William Wilborn now resides. Witnessed by Thomas F. Wilborn, Jeff Sharpton 2 Jun 1810. (Deed Book 30, p. 136)
August 18, 1809: Deed of Conveyance.Thomas Wilborn Sr. sells to Allen Burton, MB [sic] $150.00; names mentioned in deed: Mary Burton and Allen Burton, executors of Allen Burton, deceased, William Rancy [Raney?], Jacob Hibbler; signatories: Nathan Aames, Cadwell Evans, John Lyon, Q. M. Hannah (X) Wilborn (wife of Thomas Wilbourn) relinquishes dower August 18, 1809. (Deed Book 29, pp. 463-64)
June 13, 1810: William Wilbourn sells to Jonathan Fox, a bond for a deed, in the sum of four thousand dollars, in a conditional title to a plantation to be assigned to buyer one year from this day, land where Jonathan Fox now resides on waters of Cuffeetown Cr., adjacent William wilbourn, Thomas Wilbourn Sr., Charles Williams, road to Charleston; wit: John Lyon, Rich’d Qualrles; signed: William (X) Wilbourn; proven Nov. 5, 1812, by John Lyon and B. Hightower, J. P. rec 29 March 1813. (Deed Book 31, p. 283)
January 13 and 14, 1812: Deed of Conveyance. John C. Allen, Esq. and former sheriff, to William Wilbon [sic]. Thomas Evans and his wife Elizabeth sought a partition of the land of Joseph Morton, deceased. John C. Allen advertised 122 acres of land and on the first Monday of December of 1806, William Wilbourn was the highest bidder at $931.00, which he paid. Property is bounded by land of William Wilbourn, Thomas Wilbourn, the “Heirs of Bishop,” Richard Quarles and M’s (?) Morton; signatories: Jn. C. Allen, Thomas W. Morton, M. Mims, S[_] Butler, CCP; land surveyed by John Lyon (?) on July 15, 1805; a map is drawn. Note that William Wilbourn and Thomas Wilbourn have neighboring farms. (Deed Book 31, p. 18)
November 25, 1813: Deed. Thomas Wilbourn sells to William Wilbourn, $425.00, paid by William Wilbourn, 232 acres. Witnesses: Edmund Settle, Cadwell Evans, John Lyon, Q.U.; signed: Thomas (X) Wilbourn. Plat shows 85 acres adjacent lands of Thomas Wilbourn, Morton F. Wilbourn, Bennett, and course of Cuffeetown Creek. Thomas Wilbourn and William Wilbourn have neighboring farms. (Deed Book 31, p. 493)
November 29, 1817: Deed. Thomas Wilbourn sells 40 acres to Richard Wilbourn, for $300.00, on Cuffeetown Creek on Stephens Creek; adjacent to William Wilbourn, Matthew Barrett, heirs of John Longmire and aforesaid Thomas Wilbourn. Signed: Thomas (X) Wilbourn. Recorded October 5, 1819 (Deed Book 36, p. 227)
February 18, 1818: Deed. Thomas Wilborn was adjoining property owner for property sold by Sheriff Jeremiah Hatcher to Page 107-108 John Turpin of Augusta, Georgia. The tracts were on Cuffeetown Creek adjacent lands of Matthew Barrett, John Longmire deceased, Jacob Shively. The property was crossed by Lick Creek and was adjacent to Cuffeetown. (Deed 35, pp. 107-08)
May 5, 1819: Deed. William Wilbourn sells to Robert Harrison, $300.00, no acreage but a description given and map drawn. The plat shows 19 acres adjacent to Thomas Wilbourn, William Wilbourn, Campass [Cornpass, Cainpass] Road. Signed: William (X) Wilbourn; wit: Alexander E. Harris, W. A. Gowdy, William Thurmond; Cairy Wilbourn, wife of William Wilbourn, relinquishes her dower rights; recorded October 7, 1819. (Book 36, pp. 227-29)
Court of General Sessions (criminal):
Spring Term 1816: Thomas Wilborn served on the Common Pleas Jury.
THOMAS AND HANNAH IN ALABAMA
Census:
1830 Census, Tuscaloosa County, Alabama (no township): Living with her son George, Hannah is marked down in the 70-79 age column. This age span does not contradict her date of birth: July 28, 1751. Her husband Thomas was already deceased, by March 20, 1830. George’s household: 3 males are marked down as 30-39 years old; and one male is under 5. In addition to Hannah in the 70-79 column, one female is 20-29 years old, and two are under 5. Thomas (Hannah’s son) resides next to George, and there is only one male, 40-49.
Thomas’s probate:
Only one key document is cited, because George Wilbourn and Richard Wilbourn, two of Thomas’s son, appear in it.
January 1, 1835. Here is the Bill of Sale of Thomas’s estate.
Transcription Begins:
Sale Bill Estate of Tho’s Wilbourn, property sold, belonging to the Estate of Tho’s Wilbourn, on the 1st day of January 1835.
1 Lot cracking bat [?] by Go [George] Wilbourn ………………… 1.00
Lot of tin by ? Harris paid ………………………………………… 0.88
Lot ofRoz ing [?] [illegible amount] lot of Hooks [illegible amt] [illegible] G. Wilbourn Geo Wilbourn ……………………………………………………... 15.22 [?]
Shot and powder .50 1 pocket 70 Frying pan [?] 1.75 ……….…….. 2.95
2 jugs .25 tin bucket .50 keg 1. Bridle 12 .. ……………………….. 0.88
Whip .50 Pocket Book 62 Saddlebags 2.75 ……………………….. 3.87
Tray .25 Trunk 3.00 Looking Glass 32 ……………………………. 3.57
Pistol Richard Wilbourn …………………………………………… 4.00
Fiddle B. F. Randolph [illegible word] …………………………….. 2.00
Box James Wilson ………………………………………………….. 0.20
A slave named Harriet G. Wilbourn …………………………….. 636.00
Slave named Patty & Charity & a child R Wilbourn ……………. 798.00
One shot gun Go [George] Wilbourn ………..…………………… 14. 87 ½
…………………………………………………………………… 1469.50 ½
The within contains a true amount of the sales of the personal property belonging to the Estate of Thomas Wilbourn so far as I know or believe.
Subscribed and sworn to before me 14th January 1835
Moses M. Guin, Clk
Geo X Wilbourn
Transcription Ends
Thomas Wilbourn is recorded as deceased in his son William’s own probate package, back in Edgefield, South Carolina, before March 20, 1830 (follow the link under William, above in the list of children. Thomas died in Tuscaloosa County.
Why did it take so long for Thomas’ probate to be initiated (December 24, 1834)? Three reasons: (1) His wife Hannah was still alive; (2) documents are evidently missing from Thomas’s probate, so maybe one or two were dated earlier, but this is an argument from silence; (3) much of Thomas’s estate – e.g. his real estate – wasintermingled with his son George’s (so says the inventory, which is not included here). So for the first and third reasons, what hurry were the Wilbourns in, to settle matters?
Hannah’s Probate:
Only one key document is included, because of Richard Wilbourn and George Wilbourn, two of Hannah’s sons, appear in it. Incidentally, George died during his administrative duties, slowing down the completion of Hannah’s probate.
December 12, 1841. This is the Letter of Administration that appoints Richard Wilbourn, George Wilbourn, and Cader B. Keaton (probably a family friend) as administrators of Hannah Wilbourn’s estate.
Transcription Begins:
State of Alabama
Tuskaloosa [sic] County
Know all men by these presents that we Richard Wilborn, George Wilborn & Cader B. Keeton are held and firmly bound unto Marmaduke William, Judge of the County Court of Tuskaloosa [sic] County and his successors in office in the penal sum of seventeen hundred dollars the payment of which well and truly to be made all and each of us do bind ourselves our heirs and executors etc, ? and firmly by these presents, sealed with our seals and dated this 12th day of December 1841.
The condition of the above obligation is such that whereas the above bound [blank] Wilborn has been appointed administrator of the estate of Hannah Wilborn deceased. Now if the said [blank] Wilborn shall well and truly perform all the duties which are or may be by law required of him as such administrator, then the above obligation to be void, else to remain in full force and effect.
Witness our hands and seals the day and year above written – signed, sealed, acknowledged and delivered in presence of W. W. Butler (Banker? Burker?)
Richard X Wilborn [seal]
George X Wilborn [seal]
Cader B. Keaton [seal]
Transcription Ends
Hannah’s first probate document, not included here, pops up October 14, 1841. So Hannah died before then. In fact, she doesn’t appear in the 1840 Census, though her son George does, and she resided with him in the 1830 Census. So she probably died before the 1840 Census was taken in the spring through the summer of that year.
Thomas and Hannah enjoyed a three-state journey in their long life: Virginia, South Carolina, and Alabama. They lived to an advanced age, out-living one or two of their children.