| 21. | i. | AARON4 BUTLER, b. June 1726, Goochland County, Virginia or New Kent, Co/Hanover Co., Virginia?; d. 1777, Cumberland County, Virginia/ Family farm. | |
| ii. | FRANCES BUTLER (Source: As per info furnished by Doris Butler Lucas Aug. 1993.), b. Abt. 1727, Virginia. | ||
| iii. | JOHN BUTLER, BRIGADIER GENERAL, b. Abt. 1728, Goochland County, Virginia or New Kent, Co., Virginia; d. May 20, 1785, " Mt. Pleasant" Plantation, Orange County, North Carolina (Source: Will written may 20, 1985 in North Carolina.); m. ANNE ARMSTRONG, Virginia or North Carolina?. |
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Notes for JOHN BUTLER, BRIGADIER GENERAL: John Butler, Brigadier General of North Carolina: 1764-1773: North Carolina Regulators were active. John Butler was a Sheriff in Orange County North Carolina, part of his duties was to collect the taxes for England. William Butler, his brother was also living in Orange County, North Carolina. William Butler became one of the leaders of the "Regulators", the Regulators did not want to pay the taxes and thought that many of those in authority were corrupt. The two brothers appeared to be on opposite sides of the fence and yet they maintained a "brotherly" relationship if not an ideological one. I was very impressed with this relationship. At one point William Butler was branded as an outlaw by the British government and he had a price on his head of 1000 acres and $100 dollars for his capture. 1767: Abstracts of Wills, Orange County, North Carolina Reprint 1972, 1979. Compiled by Ruth Herndon Shields: (No actual wills to copy at our Gen. library) p. 18 A-76 Will of Michael Holt. Dated 31 June 1765, proved Nov 1767. wife: Elizabeth son: Peter "my children" name and number not stated. Executors: "my dear son Michael Holt, Junior and Nicholas Holt, Junior." Witnesses: JOHN BUTLER, William Carlisle. (Jean's note: on 19 Feb. 1770, Michael Holt (must be Michael Holt, Jr.) Justice, swore in Wm the Reg as Deputy Sheriff of Orange CO. If the John Butler who witnessed Holt Senior's will is our John, the date of 1765 puts him in NC about 2 years earlier that we thought.) 1767: Aaron Butler lived in Cumberland Co., Va. in 1767 where he and John Butler (his brother) of Orange Co., North Carolina sold to John Pigg, " one certain tract or parcel of land containing 100 acres it being part of a tract or parcel of land formerly granted unto Edmund Butler by patent containing 400 acres lying between Green Creek and Badluck a branch of the Appomattox river bearing date the fifth day of April 1748 and the said land is bound by Peter Randolph, Thomas Cock, Henry Pattillo and Aaron Butler's line." The indenture was made 1 Dec 1767; payment received 30 Dec 1767; and it was proved and ordered recorded 24 April 1769. It was signed by Aaron and John Butler, with John Raine, John Woodson Jr & Samuel Vawter, witnesses. Cumberland Co., Va. DB4-331 (John Pigg was related by marriage to the Cooke family.) The next two items were furnished by Jean Schneider 1998: 1768: Fanning was indicted for taking excessive fees trial set for Sept., Husband & Butler also arrested for inciting the populace to rebellion” and were to be tried at the same court. Butler said to live in the SANDY CREEK neighborhood when Fanning arrested him and Husband. 2 other Regs also in jail awaiting trial. Gov Tyron called out the militia - 1461 men marched to Hillsborough for the meeting of the court. 3700 Regulators present in Hillsborough for the meeting. Maurice Moore was the presiding judge when the court convened. Husband was tried and acquited, Butler fined 50 pounds and sentenced to 6 mo. imprisonment, other 2 Regs fined 25 pounds each and given sentence of 3 months. But Gov Tyron released the prisnors and suspended payments of fines for 3 months. Fanning was found guilty of taking 6 shilling fee when legal charge was 2 shillings 8 pence. He resigned his office. (I added this ecause it indicates where Wm the Reg lived) The Regulators attempt to secure reform in local government by force apparently failed completely. The Regulators were compelled to retreat from society and live life in the wilderness. Many migrated, some going to Tennessee and down into the Mississippi River Valley. Others followed Daniel Boone's trail into Kentucky. In fact, by 1772, just one year later, about 1,500 of the former Regulators left North Carolina. lso, Wm's bro John advised him not to stay in NC. I have included a couple of letters between John and his brother, William, while they were on opposite sides: 1771 Johnson Riot Act and Battle of Alamance. Husband, Howell, Hunter and several other Reg leaders left the province before the battle. Many Regs went to TN, about 1500 families left after the battle. (I think it quite likely that Wm the Reg was one of the "others") August 14, 1771: letter from John Butler to his brother, William Butler. I make no doubt that you disapprove of the proceedings of Government against the Regulators, be that as it will; I can assure you that the good effects thereof are very sensibly felt by the inhabitants of this province in general; and of this county in particular, for you very well know that for three or four years past, the persons and property of each subject hath been in great danger because the laws have been held under by Club law in that arbitrary Tyrant, but now things seem as if they would run in their proper channel again- not withstanding there is lately some private mischief done. The outlawed men may may I think get their pardon if they will ask for it. I suppose that you never intended to live in this province again. (William was on the lamb.) It might nevertheless be some satisfaction to you to have yours, and to that purpose I think it advisable you send a petition in your own name or send me a letter desiring me to petition the Government in your behalf. I am under a necessity of going to Newbern this Fall; and if you would take the trouble of sending your writing to me at Pryor's before the 20th of October next, I should get it on the 22nd which is our Court day. The people hereabouts are well and hoping these will finf you in the same condition, I add no more but as your loving brother, August 2, 1772: John Butler's letter to William Butler. Brother William I recd your letter by Henry Linterman & am glad to hear that you and your family &c are well. I have sent one letter to you since Ned went in beside one which I wrote for Mama to Wm. Watson which gave a very large account of the proceedings in the last assembly concerning the outlaws; The House recommended them all to to the Governor for pardon except Harmon Husband, Rednap Howell and yourself. The Governor not having power to pardon has signified the same to the King who hath empowered the House to pass an act of oblivion in favour of as many as they shall think deserving. I spoke with Governor Martin on Friday last at Hillsborough in behalf of you; he told me that he could do nothing in the matter; but recommended that I petition the House of Assembly next Fall which I propose to do: I did petition the last assembly and waited three days and received no answer. I verily think that there is no danger in you travelling in this Government. But would not recommend your settleing in this part of it in the backparts of this Government. South Carolina or Georgia I would recommend rather than that cold, wild country of Mississippi. My wife has been very bad with the consumption ever since March last and is now reduced to a very low state of health, scarce able to stand alone. I hope this will find you & your family in a good state of health. I am as usual your brother and I make no doubt but that your pardon will be accepted at the next assembly. August 2, 1772 John Butler John Butler was a General in the North Carolina Militia. A good history of his life is Ashe's Biographical History of North Carolina. According to his biography, "Little is known of his personal traits or characteristics. he must have been a popular man, possessing the confidence and respect and esteem of the State, to have had the chief command in his district for seven years, especially during the troublous years of the war. He was in nearly ever session of the Assembly, save when he was in the field, and he was several times a Councillor of State. While his troops did not fight well, there is nowhere any imputation of ineffiency or lack of courage on his part. He was too simple a Democrat to indorse the Society of the Cincinnati, and one of his last measures introduced into the Assembly was to preclude any member of that order from sitting in the General Assembly of North Carolina". 1774: An excerpt from NCORANGE-L: A few years ago I saw a small map of Orange County developed in 1774 that showed 16 numbered/named districts districts of the county. Rockingham & Guilford were to west, Chatham to south, and Wake to southeast, Granville to east and the State of Virginia to the north. These districts were superimposed over outlines of the counties as they lie today. This districting was done after Guilford had been stricken off Orange, and therefore did not include the Sandy Creek community where my known ancestors lived. Properties of other Hopkins men, presumed relatives, were intersected in the drawing up of the district boundary lines included in the 1774 map, and these were in what later became Alamance County, just south of Burlington. A sheet gave the names of property holders who were intersected by the District lines for the western half of Orange Co. (Districts 1 through 8), now Alamance and Caswell. I never saw a sheet showing the boundary lines for Districts 12 through 16 in the eastern half of Orange and I wonder if such a sheet exists. The survey of the country section boundaries intersected 3 Hopkins farms with owners named, so I was able to get a general location of these earlier farms of my presumed kinsmen, located near the convergent lines where Districts 1 (St. Asaph), 2 (Chatham), 7 (Orange), and 8 (Tryon) met. Properties intersected by these survey lines in this western half of Orange county in 1774 included those of George Sharp, John Shaddy, John Hope, JOHN BUTLER (plantation), John Brackin, Zache estated, William Smith, John Brackin (at Stony Creek), Reubin Washman (at Tom's Creek), John Graves, John O.Deneal, John Graves, Abraham Miles, the widow Burton, Archibald Murphy, Frederick Brook, William Meadows, Frederick Brock, Abraham Miles, Tom Graves, John Rice, John Brackin, Moses Carson, William Thomas, James Minnis, John Hopkins, Solomon Hopkins, the widow Brocks, James Wilkins, and David Hopkins. Orange Co. at that time (1774) included the modern counties of Caswell and Alamance to the west and Person, Orange and Durham to the east. The lines intersected some owners' properties more than once. Reference for this map and the list of intersected property holders: Orange Co., NC, Miscellaneous Records (# C.R. 0/3, 928.18) filed at the NC State Archives, Raleigh. Author of the article was Ransom McBride. Harold Hopkins 1775: On District Committee of Safety Hillsboro District (preparing for Rev. War). 1775: Became Lieutenant Colonel in North Carolina Militia 1776: Became Colonel in North Carolina Militia 1776: Chosen by people to represent them in Congress. Late in getting to the November Congress as the first election was pronounced fraudulent and he was elected on 2nd ballot. So he was not present when the first State Convention was adopted and did not sign the first North Carolina State Constitution. May 1777: Court Minutes of Orange County North Carolina In pursuance of a commission of the peace from Richard Caswell Esq., Governor, appointing Thomas Hardin, JOHN BUTLER, Alexander Mebane Jr., James Freeland, Alexander Mebane Sr., John Hogan, Charles Abercrombie, Robert Abercrombie Jr., Richard Bennehan, Nathaniel Rochester, Thomas Taylor, Richard Holloman, Eli McDaniel, William McCauley, William Laney, John Hawkins, Hugh Tinning, William Courtney, John Nichols, John Steel, John Rory, and William Caine, esqrs Justices of the Peace for sd county. Charles Abercrombie and William Caine qualified as justices. Minutes signed by JOHN BUTLER, Eli McDaniel, William Caine, John Steel, William McCauley, Hugh Tinning. 1777-1784 : Assembly chose him as Brigadier General in Militia. He was one of three commanders in North Carolina, Rutherford was with the western troops, Gregory was with the eastern troops and John Butler with the central troops. The militia troops volunteered for 3 months at a time, when their time was up they simply left for home. Consequently, they were never in the service long enough to become "veterans". And the officers were always working with raw troops. After being routed in battle, he and his troops were in disarray, a roving band of thiefs robbed him of his sword, remarking by way of consolation, "You'll have no further need of this". But Butler was not willing to give up the fight. "He who fights and runs away will live to fight another day". At one point he had to retreat from Cornwallis's advance, skirmishing as he fell back. Cornwallis, in retaliation, was to burn John's home and plantation, "Mt. Pleasant" to the ground. February 1780: Orange County Court Minutes: John Cate bound in 5000 pds for appearance at next court. Timothy Cain in 500 pds for his appearance. Ordered William Dunagan, William Ray, George Newton, George Homer, Timothy Caine, John Douglas, William Whitehead, Stephen Wilson, John Latta, William Pinkerton, and J?? Cate appts jury to view road going by William Jacksons and make report to next court. Court adjourned. Present: William Caine, JOHN BUTLER, John Steel. Alphabetical List of Officers of the Continental Army B Fifteenth Virginia page 137 Butler, John (N. C.). Brigadier General North Carolina Militia, 1780-1781. 1781: Sent to House of Commons, also Councillor of State, twice. September 12, 1781: (Notes from Jean Schneider) Fanning musters and commands 950 men. He feinted toward Whig General John Butler's camp, then at the last moment, turned to Hillborough. In an early morning raid that resulted in brief but brisk skirmishes, Fanning's men captured over 200 Whig soldiers, Governor Burke, the council, many Continental Officers, and members of the General Assembly. Sep 13, 1781 Colonel McNeil was ambushed at Cane Creek (Lindley's Mill) by General Butler. Fanning secured his prisoners at Spring Friends Meetinghouse, then flanked the Whigs and forced Gen. Butler's militia to retreat. Fanning was severely wounded in the left arm. The battle lasted 4 hours and was one of the largest on the war in North Carolina. 250 men were killed, captured, or wounded of the forces engaged. (This was David Fanning) Centennial History of Alamance County (1849-1949) by WHITAKER September 13, 1781: Kirk's Farm On the road from Hillsboro to LINDLEY's Mill at Cane Creek lay a farm known as KIRK's Old Field. Its owner, "Old Kirk," was an english hatter, frequently suspected of aiding the Patriots. On the night of September 13, 1781, a small band of Patriots stopped at KIRK's place en route westward, and asked permission to spend the night. They could, said KIRK, and so they established their camp and placed a sentry at the end of the lane leading to the farm. The night passed quietly and uneventfully. Early next morning, however, the Patriots were aroused by the sound of a shot. Quickly they mounted and rode toward the road and the place where they had left the sentry. Hardly had they discovered the dead body of the sentry when a group of Loyalist rushed from the thicket bordering the road and fired upon them. The battle was soon ended, but several of the Patriots were killed or wounded. LINDLEY's Mill On the same morning a band of six hundred Loyalist soldiers entered the sleeping village of Hillsboro at day light. Thomas BURKE or Orange County had recently been elected Governor by a Whig Assembly, and he was the first man to be taken prisoner by the British. Several other military and civil officals were aroused from their beds and also place under arrest. Colonel David FANNING (no relation to Colonel Edmund FANNING who was involved with the regulators) and Hector MCNEILL then led the men on a wild raid of plundering, takiing everything of value in the town. Colonel Alexander MELBANE of Hawfields watched this action from concealment. It was impossible for him to reach his horse, and so he set out on foot for his home to warn the people. Like the famous Paul REVERE, Colonel MEBANE spread the word, 'The British are coming!" Hawfields was Whig territory, and General John A BUTLER, who lived in this section, quickly raised three hundred of his Patriot militia to greet the British. Next morning the Tories crossed Cane Creek and headed through a hollow which would lead them across Hawfields to Tory country. On the brow of the hill, above the hollow, General BUTLER and his men awaited. As rifle fire broke out ahead of them, the rear-guard of the Loyalists, who were escorting the Governor, halted. Colonel MCNEILL commanded the front ranks to retreat; the whigs held a better position, and advance would mean certain death. One of his men, a scotchman named MCDOUGAL, accused him of cowardice, however, and MCNEILL reversed the order and advanced. He was instantly shot down. Seeing MCNEILL fall, some of the men called out that he was dead. MCDOUGAL cried out that the colonel was only wounded and urged the men forward. Meanwhile the other Loyalist commander, Colonel FANNING, crossed the creek some distance below the battle scene and attacked the Patriots from the read of the hill. This attack took the Patriots by surprise, and General BUTLER ordered a retreat. Major Robert MEBANE, the second in command, immediately countermanded the order, and facing a portion of his men to the rear, he attacked FANNING with such force that the latter was forced to withdraw at once. As the ammunition grew shorter, MEBANE passed along the line, carrying powder in his hat. Finally the battle came to a draw. The Tories, convinced that they could not get through the Whig lines, headed southeast for Wilmington, leaving their dead on the battlefield. Near the end of the battle a Tory marksman shot Major John NALLS of the Patriots, and mistaking three Whigs on horseback some distance away, the Tory rode toward them shouting that he had killed Major NALLS. A Patriot bullet suddenly ended his boast. Another of the Patriot officers, Colonel LUTTERAL, was wounded by the Tories, but he managed to stay in his saddle until his horse reached a farm house a half-mile from the battle scene. As he lay dying in a upstairs room of this home, the brave officer dipped his finger in his own blood and wrote his name across the wall. For many years this grim mark remained there. The battle of LINDLEY's Mill closed the war in North Carolina, and a month later at Yorktown Lord CORNWALLIS surrendered the tatterd remains of a once-proud British Army. 1784: To re-establish order in the State of North Carolina after the war was a difficult task. In the Assemblies of 1784, he was Chairman of the Committee on Grievances, and there were many. He resigned in November 1784. John Butler married Ann(e) Armstrong, who survived him & married Major Richard Christmas, December 22, 1788, with James Christmas, witness, in Orange County, North Carolina. At her death all of the property, including real estate, went to her family, as John Butler in his will, written May 20, 1785 (no date of probate given but next will in Will Book 1 of Orange County, North Carolina was written in January 1787) left everything to his "beloved wife" (not named), with his wife and W Raney excrs. The will was proved by Moses Crawford & Wm Shannon. No issue. 1785: Abstracts of Wills, Orange County, North Carolina Reprint 1972, 1979. Compiled by Ruth Herndon Shields: BOOK B, page 1. Will in Archives. Dated 20 May 1785, John Butler wife: Anne Executors: wife Anne, William Rainey, Esq. Witnesses: Moses Crawford, Wm. Shannon Notes from Jean Schneider: I checked VA Archives again, for references to men mentioned in the Orange CO NC Will Abstracts Augusta CO VA Court Records George Skillem vs. Moses Crofford.--Petition 17th May, 1764. Defendant is gone to Carolina. Order Book No IX June 22, 1764 (5) Moses Crofford, returned no inhabitant. John LOW, returned no inhabitant. (I would bet this is the same Moses Crawford who witnessed John Butler's will, is mentioned in John Armstrong will, Wm Shannon will. Interesting that he was in the same neighborhood as a John Low. And I would presume that Moses also knew Gen. John Butler and probably Wm the Reg in VA and they retained their friendship after they went to NC. This is what is so very puzzling to me, IF our John Lowe was born in Pasquotank or Chowan NC, why would he leave NC and go to VA to be married in 1755 and live there at least until first son was born? Unless he was the John Low(e) who served under Capt. Hog and James Dunlap and met Nancy Butler when in service, which as I recall was 1755-1757. This could be the reason why he left NC, to enlist in the army in VA. OR he was actually born in MD or VA and lived there until he and Nancy left for NC after son Wm's birth. Got to go, jean Ann married 2) Richard Christmas and also was without issue with him. After Ann's death, the Butler family started inquiries about inheriting their brother's estate, as no children had been born. John had left his estate to his wife. After her death, the family again inquired about the settlement of this estate, she had left it to her second husband. After Richard Christmas' death, the family, by then well strung out, again checked as they thought the land should come back to the Butler family. They were unsuccessful in their efforts. Doris has letters from various family members during this effort to reclaim their brother John and later, Uncle John's estate. John Butler was a General in the North Carolina militia. A good history of his life is Ashe's Biographical History of North Carolina. (Notes) from Jean Schneider, August 22, 1998: Yes, I think that John and Wm Butler went from VA to Hawfields which was located along the Haw River in the center of Orange CO. This area was one of the most populated areas at the time. I found a source on the net re Orange CO Deeds 1765-1780, there is a Butler surname in Deed Book 2 and also in Deed Book 3, Butler, Patillo, Farmer (may be relatives of Phoebe Childress) and Watson. The person who had these sources offered look ups which I requested but have not heard back yet. I believe it was 1767 that Wm was appointed collector of taxes in Orange CO by Gov Tyron. Also I found that some signers of the "Regulator Advertisement" were Isaac Low and John Low. John in 1768 was appointed to meet with the sheriff of Orange re taxes and fees. He signed Regulatory minutes at meeting at Sollings (sp?) and also signed letter to Tyron protesting taxes. Samuel Low also in 1768 signed the letter to Tyron, and in 1771 was at Reg. mtg with Rowan CO officials. In 1768 the association of Regulators was formed, James Hunter, Rednap Howell, Wm Butler and Herman Husband were prominent leaders. The first counties active in the movement were Anson, Orange, Granville (Piedmont) around 1764. Herman Husband was from Granville. I "think" Wm and Gen John may both have fought in the Battle of Ramsaur's Mill. Also on Sept 12 1781, there is a reference that Col. McNeil was ambushed at Cane Creek (Lindley's Mill) by Whig General John Butler. Also involved in the Battle of Cane Creek/Lindley's Mill/ Hillsborough was a David Fanning, who I think may have been related to Col. Edward Fanning whom the Regulators attacked in Hillsborough, dragged thru the streets and burned his house. This guy later formed King's Regiment in NY, apparently a rather famous regiment. My knowledge of the Rev War is schetchy at best. Do you know if our Gen John Butler was referred to as " a Whig general of militia"? I am rambling, have lately been delving into the Orange CO Regulator Rev War. It seems data re NC battles are haphazard. I'm sending what I found out re John Armstrong. It looks as tho he may have been a brother of Anne, unless Anne was a lot younger than John Butler. This John Armstrong sounds like an influential man in the Orange CO area. Other data pertaining to John Armstrong: 1) A John Armstrong was the entry taker in Hillsborough NC to apply for rev. army certificates for western lands - specie certificates. (After the Rev. War) 2) In 1781 a John Armstrong is mentioned as having 100 men in a letter written by Andrew Pickens during the Rev. War. UNC Chapel Hill Southern Historical Collection #23-z Armstrong, John. Papers, 1764 and n.d. [manuscript]. 2 items: Contract between John Armstrong of Orange County, N.C., and Henry McCulloh of Halifax County, N.C., about the operation of a mill on the Haw River. Also includes a copy of an extract of a deed for land. Armstrong, John. McCulloh, Henry E. (Henry Eustace), d. ca. 1810. Mills and millwork--North Carolina--History--18th century. Real property--North Carolina--History--18th century. 1. SOURCE: "American Revolution Roster" Fort Sullivan 1776-1780 Battle of Fort Sullivan Events Leading to First Decisive Victory ARMSTRONG, John HR:75; P(atriot)I(ndex) Capt. 2nd NC, 7 Sep 1775; Maj. 4th NC 6 Oct 1777; Deputy Adj. Gen. to General Horatio Gates 3 Aug 1789; w(ounded) at Stono Ferry 20 Jun 1779; Lt. Col. 1st NC 17 Jul 1782; 1 Jan 1783 (John b. abt 1735 & d. aft. 8 Sep 1806) Lt. Co. NC & married Anne ____. Abstracts of Wills, Orange County, North Carolina Reprint 1972, 1979. Compiled by Ruth Herndon Shields: (No actual wills to copy at our Gen. library) p. 18 A-76 Will of Michael Holt. Dated 31 June 1765, proved Nov 1767. wife: Elizabeth son: Peter "my children" name and number not stated. Executors: "my dear son Michael Holt, Junior and Nicholas Holt, Junior." Witnesses: JOHN BUTLER, William Carlisle. (my note: on 19 Feb. 1770, Michael Holt (must be Michael Holt, Jr.) Justice, swore in Wm the Reg as Deputy Sheriff of Orange CO. If the John Butler who witnessed Holt Senior's will is our John, the date of 1765 puts him in NC about 2 years earlier that we thought.) p. 79 B-121 Will in Archives. Dated 25 Nov. 1790, proved Feb. 1791. John Armstrong wife: Margaret son: William, land on Haw River joining John Holmes, Moses Crawford and Richard Christmas. daus: Elizabeth (under 18 years), Mary, Margaret, Rachel. Executors: wife, and Richard Christmas. Witnesses: Richard Goff, William Trousdale. (my note: Moses Crawford witnessed John Butler will) p. 96 B-289 Will in Archives. Dated 10 Sept. 1794, proved Feb. 1795. William Shannon Estate to "Loving cousins Thomas and Robert Shannon". Witnesses: Moses Crawford, Rachel Crawford. (my note: Wm Shannon witnessed John Butler will) p. 42 D-267 Will dated 8 September 1806, proved August Court 1810. JNO. Armstrong wife: Anne Armstrong sons: Joseph, Thomas and James Armstrong 20 shillings each dau: Margaret wife of James Willson 20 " " Jinnet wife of John Hanks 20 " " Mary wife of John Jesse 20 " " Elizabeth wife of Isaac Jackson 20 " " Catrenah wife of Absolom Cooper 20 " Executors: wife Anne, "and my son John Hanks." Witnesses: And'w McBroom, John Ray p. 152 E-300 Will dated 25 June 1830, proved May Court 1833. Richard Christmas (He devises many slaves and other property.) To Miss Betsy Cooper for her care of him in his infirmities, $100, slave, furniture, etc. Legacies to Richard Glass, son of Stephen and Betsy Glass, and to his parents. Dr. James A. Craig Niece Mary G. Christmas " Nancy Christmas daughter of my deceased brother James " Henrietta Christmas dau. " " " " nephews: John and William sons " " " " "My niece Mary Edward Green daughter of my nephew John Green of Warrenton." Niece, Mary Young widow. Ann Christmas Lytle ? niece of my deceased wife. Mary Smart " " " " " Peggy Lankson " " " " " "My niece Mary Powers wife of Richard Powers" Executor: Dr. James A. Craig. Witnesses: A. D. Murphey, Arch'd Murphey, V. M. Murphy. (The information below was regarding the SC Butler family). Edgefield County, South Carolina. Minutes of the County Court 1785-1795. Southern Historical Press. Compiled by Brent H. Holcomb p. 139 (from page 322) The court met according to adjournment on Monday, the 12th of April, 1790.... Ordered that Petit Jurors be drawn to serve at July Term next when the following persons were drawn accordingly. Number 21, Robert Lowe and Number 26, Thomas Butler on this list of 30 men. (from page 324) Ordered that the Sheriff return the writ of venire for the grand Jurors, when the following persons appeared: John Lowe, foreman William Butler (19 men on the list) p. 116 At a court held for the county of Edgefield on 12 Oct 1789. Ordered that the grand jurors be drawn to serve at next April court and the following persons were drawn to wit 1. John Lowe 9. William Butler (20 men on the list) Ordered that the Petit Jury be drawn for the next court & the following persons were drawn to wit 2. James Butler, William Butler name appears on at least two more jury lists but I didn't copy those. p. 64 - couldn't find a date Ordered that a road be opened from Lees Ferry on big Saludy the nearest and best way to the court house beginning at Lees Ferry thence to Clouds creek near Corley Mill thence to Richland Creek crossing at or near William Butlers Plantation thence crossing Dry Creek at or near the widow Rustins thence crossing mine creek at or near the plantation of William Herrins thence crossing rockey creek at Mr. Baruns thence to intersect with a road from Perkins pond to Mr. Richd Johnson |
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More About JOHN BUTLER, BRIGADIER GENERAL: Military: Bet. 1777 - 1784, Brigadier General in North Carolina Militia. Rev. War. Continental B, Fifteenth Virginia Misc.: 1767, Living in Orange County, sold his inherited property in Cumberland Co., Va. Occupation: Farmer/Plantation Owner/Sheriff of Orange County, North Carolina. Assemblyman. Will: Will written May 20, 1785, proved WB 1 of Orange Co., January 1787? |
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Notes for ANNE ARMSTRONG: An Early American Christmas in The Revolutionary Era by: Ginger Christmas November 1997 Fall Term Paper In order to write about a Revolution of any kind one needs to look at the events that led up to the revolt. While investigating the motives behind the people joining the Revolution for Independence, I noted that the Navigation Acts of 1763, brought about by Grenville, were laws governing imperial trades. These Acts were laxly enforced at first and caused no real burden. They did however, tend to stifle the economic initiative and left the colonists with annoying liabilities. Grenville's Colonial Currency Act prevented the colonists from paying off their debts in the depreciated colonial currency. Contained in the Currency Act was the "forbidding of all acts of colonial assemblies that were contrary to its terms" and a fine was levied on any Governor participating in such acts. The Colonists soon opposed this act. The acts were known as the "Intolerable Acts." This led to the immortal statement "taxation without representation" and called upon the colonists to unite in opposition. As a result the Nonimportation Resolve was enacted by the colonies. Every one of these acts violated some segment of colonial sensibility. As a large land owner in North Carolina, John Christmas had to purchase many items from Britain to run his sawmill. The finished goods were shipped to England or illegally smuggled into other countries. In 1765 the Stamp Act was enacted and the colonists unanimously reacted against it. This act affected the middle class workers who were lawyers, printers, ship owners, land speculators and tavern owners. They quickly claimed that Parliament had no jurisdiction to place a tax on colonists without representation in Parliament. This brought about the Stamp Act Congress. The following year some of the Freemasons from Philadelphia moved into the North Carolina area, where Captain John Christmas and his family lived, and started up the Blandford Bute Lodge of Freemasons. On the 29th of July 1765 John made application to the lodge and was accepted on the 25th of September. It is believed by James David Carter that the "Great Seal" of the American Presidency contains a number of Masonic symbols. There is considerable evidence indicating that the American Revolution was inspired by American Freemasons. Ample evidence shows Freemasonry to have been influential in the formation of the America Constitution. John was active with the Masons until 1774. His sons were members after 1784 when the Freemasons of Blandford Lodge resumed their meetings. However, we don't have physical evidence of meetings during the years from 1774 until 1784. We do have meeting notes of the Lodge before 1774 and after 1784 that were uncovered in a storeroom of the Old Bute County courthouse at Warrenton, N.C. in 1908. The meetings of the Freemasons were held in secret and the family meetings would be held quietly as well. John had five grown sons and his three daughters were married. The thought of this family gathering, to discuss political matters, around the home fire, are not unreasonable. Topics of the Acts that were being imposed and reading of the newspaper reports would be discussed. The men would talk of their meetings and the wives would, undoubtedly, voice an opinion as well. The Christmas' were a strong willed group of people. Evidence of this is found in their lives before and after the war. A decision to fight for the rights as British citizens or even an independent government was made in this household as it was all across the colonies. In 1769 the Townshend Act was enacted by Parliament on the 29th of June. It imposed duties on tea, glass, paint, oil, lead, and paper imported into America. These were items used by many Colonists in their everyday life causing hardship on these lower class citizens. In 1770 the Townshend Act caused another nonimportation resolve to be enacted by the colonists. The merchants of England were pleading again for the repeal of the Townshend Act. All looked good until Lord Frederick North decided that it would seem weak to do away with the entire act. To help his friends in the East India Company, North kept the Tea Act in effect. This act made it an act of treason to be involved in a riot. Herman Husbands led the North Carolina Regulators who took the law into their own hands. These regulators fought against the lack of representation in the Assembly. Governor William Tryon led 1,000 men against the regulators at Alamance Creek near Hillsborough, North Carolina. The Battle of Alamance was the first battle in the war. Before it was all over six Regulators were hung. The war was in John Christmas' back yard and it was time to make a stand. He chose the Patriot side when the war began in full. In 1774 the Ladies of Edenton took a large step towards the nonimportation resolution. There were 51 ladies who signed a petition in support of the nonimportation resolves. These were the first ladies to openly voice an opinion on political matters. Although the men made important decisions politically, economically and in their own homes, their wives could bring considerable pressure on them, from the peasant to the aristocrat. Women had opinions and for the most part kept those opinions within the confines of their homes. The Christmas family was large and John's wife, Mary, had to provide reasonable comfort for them in the home. This meant purchasing a considerable amount of finished goods from England. To stand behind the Nonimportation Resolve meant more work and hardships for everyone . The cause was worth it. In 1775 there was a great deal of Parliamentary activity in the Quartering and Quebec Acts. On the 14th of October the Declaration of Rights and Grievances was adopted by the Continental Congress and George Washington wrote that "no thinking man in all of America desires independence." In May Josiah Martin, the governor of North Carolina, fled from New Bern to Fort Johnson and then to the ship of war Cruiser resulting in the end of British rule in North Carolina. In July 500 minutemen burned Ft. Johnson, leaving the Cape Fear River unprotected until the end of the war. In December 1776 the North Carolina Constitution was adopted and Richard Caswell was elected as Governor of the independent North Carolina. That year France and Spain jointly and secretly agreed to support the Colonial government in the war against Britain. What kind of people were the Christmas family? Every schoolchild knows of the Revolutionary sacrifices of men like Samuel Adams, George Washington, and Thomas Jefferson. Not many of us realize that thousands of every-day men and women gave as much of their lives, fortunes, and sacred honor as did any signer of the Declaration of Independence. Any war in history requires far-sighted leaders, but it must also have scores of lower echelon captains and lieutenants as well as hundreds of loyal, dedicated privates if it is to succeed. The American Revolution was no exception to this principle. The people presented in this paper tell a story of heroism and bravery. Their contributions throughout the counties in the thirteen colonies were just as important a part of the Revolution as Jefferson's drafting the Declaration or Washington's wintering at Valley Forge. This family was highly involved in the local Committees and Associations that were the lifeblood of resistance to England. One of those was the Freemasons of Blandford Bute Lodge. This lodge began the 29th of April 1766 in the area that is now known as Warrenton, North Carolina and that year Captain John Christmas joined the Lodge. The family was living in the area of Warrenton and part of his family continued to live there until 1870. The other association was the Committee of Safety in Bute County, North Carolina. This Committee was formed by many of the members of the Blandford Bute Lodge. The Lodge held meetings up until early 1774. After that date no meeting notes can be found until 1784, which leads me to believe that they were busy with the Safety Committee. The Safety Committees were formed as headquarters for the Colonial Militia. Without the support of people like the Christmas family, and other in the area, there might never have been a 2nd Continental Congress meeting at Hillsborough, North Carolina. These people took risks when joining the organizations throughout the Colonies because of the Intolerable Act that forbade the holding of public meetings that were not sanctioned by the British. The Act, although not originally intended for North Carolina at first, was just as effectual because it could apply any time the British wanted. In 1774 when John Christmas and his sons and relatives began their efforts to start this Committee of Safety, the Declaration of Independence was still nearly two years away. By signing their names to the documents that are collected on the minutes of this committee, the men of Bute County were opening themselves to potential charges of treason. After all, the North Carolina colony was then governed by, Josiah Martin, a professional soldier in the British Army. That army had established itself a decade earlier as the greatest fighting force on earth with the end of the "Seven Year War." Martin was not sympathetic to the Colonists' cause. Facing up to a country as powerful as England was as large an act of courage as was facing death and confiscation of one's property for treason. Serving the bonds of allegiance to the mother country where many of the Revolutionaries still had relatives was an emotional dilemma, making this a type of Civil War. The British did not want to fight their kinfolk anymore than the Colonists did. However, these men of Bute felt, as did their counterparts in other colonies, that their rights as free men were being disregarded by an arbitrary government in England. They were prepared to make huge sacrifices for this principle. On June 23rd in 1775 there was a meeting of the freeholders of Bute and among the attendants were Captain John Christmas, his eldest son John Christmas Jr., and Thomas Christmas the second eldest son. In the list of signers at that meeting we find another thirty members of this family including in-laws and cousins. This meeting was "to form themselves into an Independent Company and choose their own officers, and that the officers when chosen, shall diligently instruct their men in military exercise for the defense of this country. The committee recommended the people of this county to choose a new committee on the day of the general election, and also nominate delegates to attend the Colony Convention at Hillsborough or whatever place shall be appointed for their meeting." The Military problem was that the individual Colonies had total jurisdiction over their men. Each Colony determined who was of a fighting age and who would fight in which battle. George Washington had trouble with this military concept. The basic problem was that his army was no sooner built up than it began to melt away and there were several limitations on the availability of these men. They could only be required to serve for certain periods of time in certain locations and situations. If a battle took him across a county or perhaps a Colonial line he needed to seek permission to have those men in the battle that did not live in the other jurisdiction. North Carolina, along with several other states, had short term enlistment times. Some were as short as a few days and others were from one to three month terms. (This is evident in the pension records of several of the Christmas family members.) On the 8th of July in 1775 these same three Christmas men were back at the Committee meeting on Safety in Bute County, North Carolina. They signed their names to a document that read as follows: "we the subscribers adopt accede to and will religiously observe and keep the Association entered into by the general Congress at Philadelphia the 5th of September last, and that we will adopt and endeavor to execute the measures which the General Congress now sitting at Philadelphia may conclude on for the preservation of our Constitution, and opposing the Parliament and that we will readily observe the directions of our general Committee, for the purpose aforesaid, the preservation of peace and good order and security of individuals and private property." As you can see this family was very dedicated to the causes of the Revolutionary War. At this time nine of the eleven Christmas children were old enough to be involved in the efforts to attain independence from Britain. Six of John Christmas' sons were old enough to go to war and five of these sons were Captain or better during the Revolutionary War. Their children are described as follows: John Christmas Jr. was 32 and a member of the Safety Committee; Thomas Christmas was 31 and Captain of the Militia at Bute (Where in 1779 the newly formed County of Warren passed an act establishing Warrenton as the county seat. The court was to be held at the home of Thomas Christmas until the courthouse could be built); Mary Christmas was 30 and the wife of William Green who was a very active member of the Safety Committee; Ann Christmas was 25 and the wife of Nathaniel McLemore another member of the Militia in Bute County; Richard Christmas was 23 and in Nathaniel Greene's forces under his brother, Captain William Christmas, who was 22; Henreitta Christmas was 20 and married to Captain Thomas Power another member of the militia at Bute; Nathaniel Christmas was 19 and a private under Greene's command; Robert who was 15 and went to war for freedom (every able-bodied man was officially part of the militia and subject to call-up in an emergency and many boys during the war went at only 12 years of age); James who was only 7 and his brother Charles age 3 who never entered the war at any time. The two younger boys became a minister and a physician respectively. The family was very active during the five years of fighting between 1775 and 1783. John and Mary spent most of their time near home where they provided sundries and cash for the newly evolved government of North Carolina, John remained a Captain in the Bute Militia. Their oldest son went to Halifax and was killed there in 1777 (I haven't been able to locate the records of his death so I am not sure it was war related.) Thomas Christmas also lived near home and was a Captain in the Bute Militia. He and Sarah (Duke), his wife had seven children from 1766 to 1787 which would indicate that he was around home a considerable amount of time. The county court records show that he sold property, perhaps to help support the war effort much like his father. In 1779, he helped set up the county seat of Warrenton, Warren County. At the age of 27 years the County Commission had procured his services as surveyor. "He was a member of a family that had come early from Virginia and several members of this family served in various county and provincial offices" for Warren (Old Bute) County. The courthouse in the newly formed Warren County was built on land donated by Thomas Christmas, containing 100 acres. The decision to build the courthouse on his land and hold court in his home was made that year. His land was conveniently located near the center of Warren County. Richard Christmas advanced through the ranks in the militia, beginning with Private in 1775 to Major in 1782. He was one of "those boys" that just had to be involved. As a single man with no family ties he enlisted in the army and advanced rapidly. In February of 1780 after his Captain was wounded or killed he was taken prisoner, with a company of militia under the leadership of Col. Hugh Tinning's Regiment of North Carolina. He was held for 16 days and released. In Feb. of 1781 he re-enlisted as a Sergeant with his brother, Capt. William Christmas, and served another three months. After only one month he was sent to fight under Col. Eaton in the Battle near Guilford Courthouse on the 15th of March. By July 15th he had re-enlisted again under Captain Abram Allen and was captured, again, at Charlotte, North Carolina and held on the British ship "Eske" in Charleston harbor in South Carolina. (I have tried to find information on this ship with no results.) The Pension Records state that it was a prisoner ship in Charleston Harbor. He was held aboard the ship Eske for just under a year when his brother, Nathaniel Christmas, acquired his release. William Christmas was a very busy son as well. When he was 18 he qualified as a surveyor, having given bonds in 1770 for this profession. He was actively working with the government in North Carolina stayed in contact with his cousin Richard Henderson, Surveyor, of Transylvania fame. Just before the war William helped lay off the town of Boonsborough, along with Thomas Person. In 1777 he was commissioned Ensign in the militia. He served as staff officer of the Halifax Militia District, Quartermaster Division, as Warren County commissioner for "collecting provisions, tax and securing supplies and provisions for support of the army and navy of this and the United States in the Southern Department." In 1778 he was appointed as surveyor for the county and was one of three surveyors to run the line between Bute, Warren and Franklin counties. Because of the Lord of Bute's involvement in the Revolution on the side of the British, the decision was made to do away with Bute county and make two other counties in its stead. One was named after General Warren and the other was named after Benjamin Franklin, a well known statesman and inventor. In 1780 he was busy laying off the towns of Warrenton and Louisburg in North Carolina which were the two county seats of the two new counties of Warren and Franklin. On the 15th of March 1781 he was commander of the Independent Rifle Corps under General Nathaniel Greene as who fought in the battle near Guilford Courthouse. This battle was crucial because it was fought very near the homes of the Christmas family. When Cornwallis retreated for rest and supplies he went to Hillsborough where Captain John Christmas lived. After the war William was involved in the Bonus Act which was established to grant land to the men who were fighting in the Revolutionary War. He acquired land for his war efforts in the Mississippi Territory. This act allowed 640 acres of bounty land for privates and up to 12,000 acres for Brigadier Generals. John Christmas, his father, was granted 1,000 acres in Orange County, North Carolina. Nathaniel was busy keeping his brother Richard out of trouble, keeping up with the Committee of Safety in his home state and following his brother William around learning the trade of surveyor. After the war he settled with his younger brother Robert in the Wilkes County area of Georgia where they were district judges. He moved to the Louisiana area to settle down with Mary McLemore, his wife. He Petitioned the new government for pension from the Revolutionary war but was rejected. He reached his rank of Major as a First Major Surveyor.Captain William Christmas, Sergeant Richard Christmas and young Robert Christmas were in the battle near Guilford Courthouse under the Leadership of Brig. Gen. Nathaniel Greene. Robert moved to Wilkes County Georgia where he petitioned the government for a pension as a wounded soldier. He was granted 200 acres in Georgia on the 24th of May 1786. He then began a career as District Juror and Judge until his death in 1799. The records on Robert are lengthy in the Wilkes County area of Georgia. Now we must look at the effects that the Revolutionary war had on the lives of these people. At the end of the war Captain John Christmas was sick. It is not known what caused the sickness in his 66th year. He subsequently made out his will, where he was careful to mention each of his children, and the children of his deceased son. Now that he was allowed the pursuit of life, liberty and property he left his land to each of the children. John Christmas Jr. was killed in 1777 near Halifax, North Carolina and left a will in Bute County naming his wife, three small children, and Thomas Christmas, his brother, as executor of his estate. His death had quite an effect on his wife and small children. Captain Thomas Christmas had also been affected because he was the eldest. He was responsible for his family, his deceased brother's family, and for his widowed mother who had two small sons at home. Mary Elizabeth Christmas was the wife of Colonel William Green who was active in the Committee of Safety and a soldier in the Revolutionary War. They remained near Warren County and were involved in local politics. Ann P. Christmas and her husband Nathaniel McLemore were with the group who went to the new territory of Tennessee to settle and make a new home. Nathaniel McLemore was very active with the Militia and fought in the Battle near Guilford Courthouse. Major Richard Christmas had enough time in and out of British prisons. He decided to marry the widow of General John Butler. He became a representative in the lower house of government in Georgia. Richard achieved rank of Colonel in his surveyor work in the State of North Carolina. First Major William Christmas was busy with his new wife, Abigail McLemore. He surveyed the new lands in Tennessee, Kentucky and the Mississippi Territory. In 1791 he was one of the men working on the First map of North Carolina with Price and Strothers, served in the North Carolina House of Representatives and the Senate. He resigned his post as a Colonel and then took a party of settlers into the Tennessee area in 1800. Nathaniel and Richard Christmas joined him and opened a land office in the Knoxville area in 1801 Henrietta was married to Captain John Power and settled in Tennessee along with her brothers. Her husband was active in the Safety Committee in Bute County. Major Nathaniel Christmas had a new wife, Mary McLemore, and joined hisbrother William in Tennessee after a term in the North Carolina House of Representatives. He was instrumental in securing financing for the Price and Strother maps. Robert Christmas married Marie F. Gilbert and became a District Judge in Wilkes County Georgia with his brother Nathaniel before Nathaniel moved on to Tennessee. James married Elizabeth Courtney and settled in Hillsborough, North Carolina with his family and mother. He became a Baptist minister for the Cane Creek Church his mother helped to form. Charles became a proponent Physician in Hillsborough and outlived his mother by only one year. The records of most of these men were destroyed. The Virginia GenealogicalSociety and the National Society of the Daughters of the Revolution have reconstructed many of them with letters and other government records. These documents give vital information on the lives of the men of this era. Many of the petitioners were rejected because they had no records to present too the newly formed government. Many of the people who fought in the Revolutionary War were never properly acknowledged for their part in the forming of our great country. I hope this paper will justify a smallpart of that injustice. There are nine generations between Captain John Christmas and myself. I hope that as time passes when I write my book that I can properly portray the lives of all the family members, as well as I have tried to do with this paper. Bibliographies A Short History of the American People Vol. I (1492-1865) by Oliver PerryChitwood A Short History of the American Revolution by James L. Stokesbury Abstracts of Vital Records from Raleigh, North Carolina Newspapers 1799-1819 American Political and Social History by Harold Underwood Faulkner An Outline History of the Revolution by Ernest Dupuy Atlas of American History Second Edition Bute County Committee of Safety Minutes 1775-1776 by B. Ransom McBride Daniel Carol One Man and His Descendants by Sister M. Virginia Gieger Democracy in America by Alexis De Toqueville Duke Papers by Wortham Forming of the North Carolina Counties 1663-1943 by David Leroy Corbett Georgia, Surveyor General Department Atlanta, GA Land Records Lost Tribes of North Carolina by Worth S. Ray Marriages of Granville County, North Carolina 1753-1868 by Brent H. Holcomb North Carolina, Franklin County court records DB A p.132; DB 23 p. 366 North Carolina, Orange County court records DB 2 p.7; DB 4 p. 223; DB 6 pp. 293-294; DB 6 p.323; DB 6 p. 462; DB 6 pp. 467-468; DB 7 p. 118; DB 7 p. 450; WB A pp. 261-268 North Carolina, Warren County court records DB 3 pp.12-14; DB 3 pp.229-230; DB 3 p. 245; DB 6 pp. 9-10; DB 6 pp. 193-194; WB 2 pp. 128-130; WB 18 p.162-169 NSDAR Vol. 165, #164025 Orange County 1752-1952 by Hugh Lefler Origins of the American Revolution by John C. Miller Roster of Soldiers from North Carolina in the American Revolution Some Southern and Colonial Families by David A. Avant, Jr. Tennessee State Library Archives Nashville, TN Tennessee Williamson County court records WB 1 pp.264-267 The Compendium of American Genealogy by Frederick Adams Virkus The History of a Southern State North Carolina by Hugh Talmage Lefler The O'Fallon Migration, Virginia Genealogical Society Richmond, VA The People's Chronology A year-by-year record of human events from Prehistory to the Present by James Trager Wilkes County Papers, Wilkes County Courthouse Georgia Endnotes 1-Bute County Commission of Safety Minutes 1775-1776 by B. Ransom McBrids p.3 2-Fraternal Organizations by Alvin J. Schmidt p.121 3-The People's Chronology A year-by-year Record of Human Events from Prehistory to the Present Day by James Trager p.319 4-The County of Warren, N.C. 1586-1917 p.47 See map 3 5-Women of the Republic by Linda K. Kerber p.41 6-The People's Chronology A year-by-year Record of Human Events from Prehistory to the Present Day by James Trager p.319 8-Bute County Commission of Safety Minutes 1775-1776 By B. Ransom McBride p.3 9-An Outline History of the American Revolution by R. Ernest Dupuy p.38-39 10-Bute County Commission of Safety Minutes 1775-1776 By B. Ransom McBride p.4 13-Bute County Commission of Safety Minutes 1775-1776 By B. Ransom McBride p.3 14-Bute County Commission of Safety Minutes 1775-1776 By B. Ransom McBride p.19-20 15-Bute County Commission of Safety Minutes 1775-1776 By B. Ransom McBride p.29-30 -A Short History of the Revolutionary War by James L. Stokesbury pp. 45 & 69 18-Bute County Commission of Safety Minutes 1775-1776 By B. Ransom McBride p.25 20-Bute County Commission of Safety Minutes 1775-1776 By B. Ransom McBride p.26 21-GenWeb North Carolina Histories, Bute County on Internet 22-Revolutionary War Pension record #S3413 23-A Short History of the Revolutionary War by James L. Stokesbury p. 69 24-North Carolina Tax Rolls 1771 Bute County. 25-Daniel Caroll One Man and His Descendants by Sister M. Virginia Gieger p.121 26-Daniel Carrol One Man and His Descendants by Sister M. Virginia Gieger p.121 27-The County Of Warren N.C. 1586-1917 p.47 28-The County of Warren N.C. 1586-1917 p.53 32-Pension Applications National Genealogical Society #S16342 -Dictionary of North Carolina Biography edited by William S. Powell Vol. 1 p.369 36-GenWeb North Carolina Histories, Bute County on Internet 37-An Outline History of the American Revolution by R. Ernest Dupuy pp. 169-175 39-Atkins McLemore's will Warren County, N.C. Courthouse 40-Guilford County, N.C. Histories 41-Wilkes County Papers, Wilkes County Georgia 42-Orange County, N.C. Will Book A pp.261-268 44-Warren County, N.C. Will Book 2 pp.128-130 45-NSDAR Vol. 165 #164025 46-Bute County Commission of Safety Minutes 1775-1776 By B. Ransom McBride pp. 12-15, 15-17, 19-37 47-Marriage Records of Orange County, N.C. on microfiche at State Library in Salem OR 48-Marriage Records of Warren County, N.C. on microfiche at State Library in Salem OR 50-Dictionary of North Carolina Biography Vol. I pp.369-370 51-Bute County Commission of Safety Minutes 1775-1776 By B. Ransom McBride pp. 20, 26 52-Marriage Records of Warren County, N.C. on microfiche at State Library in Salem OR 53-Dictionary of North Carolina Biography Vol. I pp.369-370 Marriage Records of Warren County, N.C. on microfiche at State Library in Salem OR 54-Wilkes County Papers, Wilkes County, Georgia 55-Marriage Records of Warren County N.C. on microfiche at State Library in Salem OR (Notes) From Jean Schneider, Aug. 27, 1998: I've been doing some checking around re the Christmas family, started in VA and there were all kinds of refs to Armstrongs in Chalkey's Chronicles. Of course I was handicapped because I didn't know Ann's father's name for sure, but the John clue helps. There was a John Armstrong who signed the Regulator petition to Gov Tryon in 1768, could be the same guy, whether her bro or father remains to be seen. Also a Robt Armstrong is named as plaintiff in a Nov 1767 court case in VA, the record stated that Robert resided in Orange CO, Province of NC. Page 152 appears to be extracts from Richard Christmas' will, and included in the text is "Legacies to Richard GLASS, son of Stephen and Betsy GLASS, and to his parents." This must be the Glass people mentioned in the letters written by James Craig, who is mentioned in the will and also appears to be executor. |
| 22. | iv. | EDMUND BUTLER II, b. Abt. 1729, Goochland County, Virginia or New Kent, Co./Hanover Co., Virginia?; d. 1801, Hancock County, Georgia. | |
| 23. | v. | NANCY ANN BUTLER, b. Bet. 1738 - 1742, Goochland County, Virginia; d. Abt. 1783, Georgia ?. | |
| 24. | vi. | WILLIAM BUTLER, CAPT., b. Abt. 1740, Goochland County/Cumberland County, Virginia; d. November 09, 1790, Edgefield County, South Carolina. | |
| 25. | vii. | HANNAH BUTLER, b. Abt. 1741, Cumberland County, Virginia; d. Hancock County, Georgia?. | |
| viii. | FEMALE BUTLER, b. Abt. 1744, Goochland County, Virginia; m. WILLIAM WATSON, JR.. |
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Notes for FEMALE BUTLER: It appears that one of William Watson Jr's sisters married "a" Thomas Williams (brother to Susanna Williams?), According to William Watson, Sr's will in Amelia County, Virginia in 1802. (Need copy). |
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Notes for WILLIAM WATSON, JR.: A letter from William Watson, Jr., to William Butler From the "Regulator Papers of North Carolina". (This was a letter written while William Butler was hiding out as the British government had a reward offered for his capture of 1000 acres and $100.00) May 30, 1773 Loving brother, this comes to let you know that we are all in good health at present except mother and she is much better than she has been, although she is very weak yet: your son seems to be well satisfied, for he never once cryed, or seemed for to want to see you as we would know of;--Brother Edmund Butler's family are all well and desire to be remembered to you and likewise brother Aaron Butler's family are likewise all well, and al of the rest of our friends, that we have heard from of late:-- we have had a letter from John Low since you were out here; and were glad to hear from you and you were out there; and were glad to hear from you and that you got cattle to carry out with you:-- I would be glad for to hear how you make out for corn, and if is to be got at any rate; for I have heard it is very scarce: James Ewing said when he was down that you should not want for corn as long as he had any, and he said he made a very good crop of corn;--I have not anything strange to inform you off, but all join together in sending our love to you & your family and remain as usual yours til death. Charlotte 30th May 1773 Possible future research: Subject: Charlotte CO VA WIll Book 1 Look up: To Jean Schneider, I feel like from the dates that the William Watson in Amelia Co. Virginia, is related to the William Watsons in Charlotte Co. Charlotte County wasn't formed until 1765 and the Amelia County William died prior to that. Anyway, you know more about your Watsons than I do but just thought this might be helpful. Amelia County, Va October 20, 1781(Order), Amelia County, Virginia,WB 3, pg 53: Appraisal estate of James Anderson decd by Wm. Watson, Henry Anderson and Charles Knight. Februay 8, 1785 (Will), Amelia County, Virginia, WB 3, pg 300: William Tucker proven: date not given, Son Daniel Tucker land on north side of Licking Branch to David Greenhills corner, Son William Tucker land on the other side Licking Branch to Mirey branch. Son John Tucker land purchased of Tally Hinton and Robert Hinton. Son Robert Tucker and son David Tucker land purchased of William Watson. Joel Tucker land where on I now live. Daughters Mary Chappell, Sarah Old, Anne Tucker. Wife Ann Tucker. Exec sons Daniel, John and Robert. Wit: David Williams, Richard Hawkes, John Hawkes. Signed: William X Tucker. January 26, 1786, Amelia County, Virginia, OB 17, pg 94b: Admr granted 26 Jan 1786 OB 17, pg 145b Richard Mayes Plt vs William Watson Deft: In Case. Abates by Plt's death. February 23, 1787 (Returned), Amelia County, Virginia, WB 4, pg 29 Appraisal estate of JAMES BAGLEY decd by William Watson, Dickerson Jennings, Edmd Borum. March 13, 1788 (Will) WB 4, pg 116 SAMUEL BOOKER, will 13 Mar 1788 Prov 25 Sept 1788. Son George. Child my wife is big with. Wife Martha. Exec wife, brother Richard Booker, brother Marshall Booker and Richeson Booker. Wit: George Booker, Samuel Cobbs, Luke Watson. March 7, 1759, Amelia Co., Virginia, WB 4, pg 235-242 Acct of WILLIAM WATSON estate by Richard Jones from Mar 7, 1759. Mentions Miss Jane Watson, Wm Watson's schooling, Miss Elizabeth Watson, Amey's schooling, Belico's schooling. Mrs. Amey Watson and Billy's purchases paid. Aug 1767 to Thos B. Mumford his part of profit of estate to the time of his marriage to Mrs. Mumford by information 70.0.0. The Credits are dated from 1 Oct 1758 thru 1786. Returned 23 Feb 1792. September 24, 1789 (Taken) and returned February 23, 1792, Amelia County, Virginia, WB 4, pg 232. Acct of estate of THOMAS MUMFORD decd by Samuel Booker Exec. On motion of Marshall Booker and Richard Booker Exec of SAMUEL BOOKER decd...any 3 to settle acct of Thos. Munford Senr decd. Taken . May 31, 1793 (Will) WB 5, pg 160. Edmund WALKER, Proven 23 Apr 1793. Wife Mary. Son George Walker land both in Charlotte and Amelia. Daughters Judeth Tatum and Mary Branch. Sister Sarah Walker shall live in the house I at present do, so long as she remains single or as long as my said wife lives. Exec son George Walker and friend John Royall. Wit: Luke Watson, Lewellin Hudson. Signed: Edmd Walker. April 19, 1794, Amelia County, Virginia, (Will) WB 5, pg 232, Henry WORSHAM, Proven 24 Dec 1795. Son Green Worsham 100 land in Prince Edward Co being 1/2 tract bought of Joseph Moore. Son Henry Worsham remaining part of the tract in Prince Edward Co., Va. Daughter Elizabeth Cardwell. Daughter Ann Boyd. Daughter Tabitha Worsham. Daughter Sally Worsham. Daughter Polly Worsham. Wife Martha Worsham. Sons Archer and David. Exec two eldest sons Archer and David Worsham. Wit: Andrew Walker, John Townes, and Luke Watson. Signed: Henry X Worsham. Happy Hunting, Bel To: jeans@primary.net Subject: Charlotte CO VA WIll Book 1 Look up I know you didn't ask for all of this but since it included Elizabeth, mother of William Watson, you would be interested. 1768-1769, (Will dated -68) Charlotte Co., Va., WB 1, pg 15 WILLIAM TOVIAL MILLS, Probated Feb 6, 1769, Lunenburg County. Three Brothers and two sisters: Matthew, Charles, Meanan, Molley and Betty. Charles Mills to have carpenter tools. Exec Matthew Mills and Charles Mills. Wit: William Watson, Jessee Bond, Matthew Watson. Security John White and Robert (torn). February 25, 1767, Charlotte Co., Va., WB 1, pg 30. Inventory of the estate of John Richardson. Appraisors: Charles McKennie, Douglass Watson, Collier Barksdale. Recorded 2 Mar 1767. August 31, 1770, Charlotte Co., Va., WB 1, pg 59. Inventory estate of William Davis decd 31 Aug 1770. Appraisors: William Watson, Senr, Charles McKinnie, William Watson, Junr. Recorded 3 Sept 1770. December 5, 1770, Charlotte Co., Va. (Will) WB 1, pg 78. JOHN MARSHALL, Probate Aug 5, 1771. Eldest son Joseph. Daughters Hannah and Mary. Wife Hannah. Children: Thomas, William, John, Nanny, Benjamin, Samuel Marshall. Exec wife Hannah, son Joseph and son Thomas Marshall. Wit: Thomas Alexander, Samuel Moore. Security William Watson, Samuel Moore. September 27, 1771, Charlotte Co., Va., WB 1:82 Appraisal of the estate of Alexander Ritchey, Appraisors: William Watson, Samuel Moore, and Samuel Scott. Recorded 7 Oct 1771. August 28, 1771, Charlotte Co., Va., WB 1, pg 91. Inventory of the estate of John Marshall. Appraisors: William Watson, Saml Moore, Douglass Watson. Recorded 1 June 1772. August 17, 1772, Charlotte Co., Va., (Will) WB 1, pg 97. For JOHN ANDERSON, Probate, 1 Mar 1773. Friend Robert Jennings of Hanover County all of the slaves. Friend George Riden. Friend Nancy Burns. Rodah Ketchings. Douglass Watson Exec Douglass Watson and William Watson, Junr. Wit: William Watson, Daniel Burns, Junr, Meredith Catching. Sec. William Price Gent. March 6, 1773, Charlotte Co., Va., WB 1:115 Inventory estate of John Anderson by William Watson, John Townson, Andrew Wallace. Recorded 7 Feb 1774. August 1776, Charlotte Co., Va., WB 1, pg 148-152. Inventory of the estate of Matthew Watson decd ordered at Court Aug 1776. Recorded 6 Jan 1777. March 17, 1778, Charlotte Co., Va. WB 1, pg 200. MATHEW WATSON Jr, Probate Dec. 7, 1778. Being under the obligation of a Soldier. Mother Elizabeth Watson. Brother William Watson. Sisters Mary Rawlins, Elizabeth Winbush, Sarah Coleman, Judeth Weaver, Lucy Holt, and Anna Jude. Exec brother William Watson, John White Holt. Wit: William Sublet, Thomas Tiller, Edmond Ayres. Security Stephen Coleman. February 1, 1779, Charlotte Co., Va., WB 1:203 Inventory of estate of Matthew Watson decd. Appraisors: Richard Gains Senr, Joseph Holt, Arthur Hayton. Recorded 1 Feb 1779. August 26, 1781, Charlotte Co., Va., WB 1:284 Inventory of estate of Jack S. Davenport decd. Appraisors: Thos Paulett, William Marshall, Douglass Watson. Recorded 1 Oct 1781. 1782: Charlotte Co., Va., WB 1, pg 304. Inventory of estate of Abraham Sublet. Appraisors: William Watson, Richard Gaines Senr, Willoughby Pugh. Recorded Sept. 2, 1782. 1787-1790: Charlotte Co., Va., WB 1, pg 431a ELIZABETH WATSON will 7 Apr 1787, Probate, July 5, 1790. Daughter Mary Rawlins and her children Lucy, Alban, Fleming and Mary negro Penelope. Daughter Judith Weaver negro Jenny. Granddaughter Martha Holt negro Nancy. Granddaughter Lucy Holt. Granddaughter Lucinda Williams. My children: Elizabeth Barksdale, Sarah Coleman, William Watson and his daughter Elizabeth, Lucy Holt and Anne Jude. Exec Samuel White and Richard Gaines Senr. Wit: James Wimbish, Luke Hazlewood. October 3, 1791, Charlotte Co., Va., WB 2, pg 13 Inventory and appraisement of estate of Elizabeth Watson decd. Recorded 3 Oct 1791 1791-1793; Charlotte Co., Va., WB 2, pg 29. Account Current estate of Elizabeth Watson with Dudley Barksdale admr from 1791. Recorded 3 June 1793. DIVISION of estate of Elizabeth Watson to Elizabeth Barksdale, Sarah Coleman, William Watson,:Lucy Holt and Anna Jude equally. 3 June 1793. 1777-1794: Charlotte Co., Va., WB wb2, pg 50b. Account Current of estate of Mathew Watson decd with William Watson and Stephen Coleman admrs from 4 Feb 1777. Paid 4 May 1778 Mrs Elizabeth Watson her dower. Recorded 14 Apr 1794. Happy Hunting Found a couple pieces to the Watson puzzle, WATSON-L Sarah Watson ( b. 05 Oct ? Louisa County, VA d. Jan 1836 Lunenburg Co. VA) > M. > Col. Stephen Coleman, Sr. ( b. 17 Nov 1739 Caroline County, VA) > > Sarah's parents were Matthew Watson and Elizabeth....? 23-5, WEAVER, JUDE: Seek info on Matthew Watson Weaver b ca 1776 Campbell Co, m 1801 Lucy Jude (b 1784). Matthew s/o John and Judith (Watson) Weaver; Lucy d/o George and Anna (Watson) Jude. Anna and Judith Watson d/o Mathew and Elizabeth (Mills) Watson of Charlotte Co. Seek pars of Elizabeth Mills and John Weaver. Sue Thompson, 118 Springwood E.O., Mabank, TX 75147; mercer@ultravision So these two queries indicate that the spouse of Elizabeth Mills Watson in Charlotte was Matthew Watson Sr. Do we conclude that their son William is NOT our William? Do we know for sure that our William was a junior? 1790 On the Stokes County, North Carolina Census: Low, Thomas 12300 Low, John 11400 Smith, Martha 13600 (widow of Joseph Smith) Hickman, Edwin 22400 (may be son of William or other relative) Hickman, William 11100 Watson, Wm. 11100 (Could this be the one?) There are 4 other Watsons listed as, head of household on same census. There is a William Watson listed on 1759 Rowan Co., NC Tax List. There is a William Watson listed on 1790 Rowan Co., NC Federal Census. Watson, William 13400 #1268 (no other Watsons on list). |
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More About WILLIAM WATSON, JR.: Fact 3: Lived in Charlotte, either Va. or NC. Misc.: Had 4 sisters. |
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