Appendix B

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APPENDIX B

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DOCUMENTS

Pocket Plantation, 1748–1861

Pittsylvania County, Virginia

#2927 MSS

Microfilm 1705

Series E, Part 1

(University of Virginia at Charlottesville)

Reel 11:

(Three letters from Susanna Bird of King and Queen County, Virginia to her brother John Smith, Jr.)

Dear brother king & Queen

I take this oppertunity by uncle Con (Constantine?) to let you have from me we are all in good health at this present as I hope it will find you & yours I have lived in a great Deal of trouble & -uneasiness a thinking of living so far from you & my two brothers I have sumthing to say to you that I dont ceav (care?) to right for feair of it being seean (seen?) I wish it was my fortune to live by you I am afraid it never will I should be glad if you wood come & see me the first oppertunity you have it would be a great happenness to me if I cud have the pleasure of your company Sister Smith if it was only but for one week but as I cant have the happness of your compeny I hope to receive letters from you by all oppertuntys tell brother guy I hope to see him down at the fall as he promised me he would & tell brother bowker I should be prodigeous glad to see him & was very Sorry he would not call to see me as he came from Williamsburgh I have nothing more to ad at present but my love to you (unreadable) Sister Smith & yours children

please to give my love to my brothers & their wives & children

Susanna bird

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king & Queen

Dear Brother I take this oppunity of writing to you by this stanger mr Clouch (?) as he was a comeing to them parts and as it is all the comfort as I can have of you in this (smear) convorce by Letters and think you are Backword as it is possable you may have oppertunty at time more then I can. be so kind Dear Brother as to send to me one by the messenger as Bring yours and I hope I may hear of you and my dear Father and Brother and Famalyes helths as it leaves mine and all. Frinds at present only the ague and Feaver some of my aunt Bird’s famaly has got. being in last have no more to add but my Tender regard to my dear Lady and you and Brother all your wives and all Frindes. what Joy would it be to see you or any of my Frinds but little hopes I have of that but hope we may meet in the next life with Joy and Every Comfort if we go the way of Righteousness which I hope we may The Difficult seems to work to hinder many. Remember my kind love to mammy. should be glad to have a letter from (smear) pray Brother dont Fail send me a few lines as you has so good a opportunity

From you Cenceer Frind & loving sister

Susanna Bird

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King & Queen April 25th 1769

Dear brother:

I have recieved the letter you rote to my by anthony Bowker (?) the third day of january and I could not get a opporunity to answer it till now I was very much oblige to you for your kind and great offers you made to me in your letter. I believe it would be to my children’s advantage as well as mine if we could live up on good land as for Mr birds part I believe he will never move from the place he live at till death moves. I should be very glad to com see you and all the rest of my Dear friends but I have no body to go with me nor nothing to ride as Jear (?) nor have the hapeness of you company. I hope Dear Brother to have the pleasure of receiving of letters from you by all opportunity I am very Sorry to hear of the trouble my Dear dady is in himsel told me he lives in the poison bound I should be glad if you will rite to me and let me no how he does

I have nothing more to ad at present but my love to you and sister Smith and your Dear children

Please to give my duty to my Dear dady and mamey and tell him I never wanted to see any body so much as I do him and should be glad if he would com down with Kundecon(?) if he is able

give my love to brother Guy and his wife and children and tell him I hope to receive letters from him by all opportunities

Susanna bird

If you or guy will Come Down to see me and Dady will send me word to Come see him I will come if I can

Dear sister it would be great happens to me if I could have the pleasure of your company once more

I hope to receive alot (unreadable) from you

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Letter from John Smith, Sr. of Goochland County, Virginia (son of Rev. Guy Smith) to one of his sons, John Smith, Jr.:

Dear Sr.

I send Frank to let you know I shall make No Tobacco and but

little Corn that I have ——(hardly?) any thing for Wheat

Two or Three Kigrous(?) to doc(?) that I have got of you(.)

are still Willing I shall have that place where Jaimy(?) is(.)

I shall be glad to —— (?) send them up as soon as Frank

Returns and I shall be glad to Remove my family some time In

september if you and Guy will be kind enough to ap——(?)

——(.) Tho not any Corn nor any money to buy Any, as for

Will he is still out. Colo. Cabell sent me Word by bobby he

will give 90 (pounds) a piece for Them and take Will as he

Runs (?) if you will please to Quit you Right as he’s Informed

you have bought them both. Cabell’s bond I suppose will be

good to Ross, if you will take them as They Run. Which I hope

you will and will be so kind to give what Cabell offers. I

shall be very glad you should have them if you be so kind as

to be of the Bargin(.) please do Right to Col. Cabell and

send It by Frank to me(.) if you can come down it would much

Rejoice Me(.) I would come up but am Not able(.) if you would

give me your ——(?) I am so lame, tho thank god in good

health(.) I want to sow wheat or we shall strave another year

I rote to Bowker and Guy To Send me one Boushell (Bushel) Each

hope you will be pleased (to) send me about——(?) And show

Jamey and Tom where to sent it(.) I wood have my Negroes out

but nobody will hire as there’s hardly any Cooper(.) I am with

kind Love to you and your Family your affeasinate

(affectionate) father

John Smith

July 8th, 1767

CP (PS?) I have sent to try to get Will but in Vain(.) I have sent

Timson to try to get him to Col. Cabell and am persuaded he will

get him in if you send some body Down with Frank(.)

I will deliver them and hope as my ——(?) Word is so good you

will be pleased to a loan me what Cabell offers if he is got it

not (.) Mr. Cabell must have Them if you are willing which I hope

You will not be against (.) hope you Rote to Cabell whether you

Intend to have them or not(.)

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Judith Smith (widow of B Smith Decd.)

Things sold at Public Sale 27 July 1776 60 pounds, 4, 3

1770 5 cows & calves & yearling 8

8 old sheep & 5 lambs 2, 5

1 old desk 2, 11

1 old featherbed & old under bed,

both bro. Simon tykes (?) 4

a flax wheal 8/ a small Trunk 18, 6

Bailly’s Dinnary & Barcley’s Apology 6

Small Negro wench Phillis & her two children

Bess 7 years old & French 4 years old 85

A Negro child John 4 years old 18

1 Negro man Dick 91

1 Negro man Glasgow 56

A Negro woman Amy & her three children, Isabell

6 years old, Jamey 4 years old Tom 2 years old 93

2 old beds and Furniture 5

a parcel of Tobacco uninspected 10, 11

1 old wooling wheel 2, 6

parcel of uninspected Tobacco 9, 7, 6

2 axes(?) one Jumped & Said (?) 5

+ other items

NOTE: John and Guy Smith sold Bowker Smith’s entire estate at public auction on 2 May 1770 for 362 pounds. Judith Smith purchased it and sold on 15 May 1770 to John Smith, Jr. 10 Negroes—Dick & Glasgow, Amy & Phillis + 6 Negro children—Bess, Oloe Isbel, 4 N. boys, Frank, James, Tom & John; 13 head of cattle, beds, etc (see previous entry). Profits of crops, less Judith and children’s maintance, put in her account. John Smith, Jr. paid several large amounts to settle estate and called on Judith for settlement. Mr. Harry Innes and Judith’s son Stephen asked to settle account. Judith Smith paid 400 pounds in debt to John Smith, Jr. in form of mortgage 27th July 1776 for 11 Negroes—114 pounds, 13,0 not paid—possible John Smith, Jr. indemified Judith for this.

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Guy Smith in John Smith, Jr. papers—copy of account book:

“The Estate of Mr. Guy Smith Decd to Jo. Smith Decd.:

1775 July

paid Ralph Bowker

1 gun bought at the sale of Achilles Bowker Estate

paper work bought at ditto

1 rife gun

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Items purchased by persons from the Pocket Plantation in 1770:

ribbon, black “sattin”, “gilt pins”, brown thread hose, china, salt, rum, hooks, cockery gallon jug, coarse paper, pewter dishes, brown sugar, wine, tumblers (mostly liquor, cloth, shoes, spices).

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NOTE: “your affectd cousin

Ralph Bowker

14 July 1770”

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Reel 12

I Arthur Hopkins of Pittsylvania County being very weak in

Body but of Sound memory do make this my Last Will and Testment.

When at the age of Twenty one years my Dear Sons James Hopkins

and Samuel Hopkins my desire is for this tract of Land I now Dewell

on to be sold to the Highest bidder and the money to be Equally

Divided Between my four Dear Children James Hopkins, Samuel

Hopkins, Francis Hopkins & Jean Hopkins, all my Personal Estate

after paying my Just Debts I give and Bequeath to my four children

above mentioned. I appoint John Smith and Samuel Calland my whole

and Sole Executors to Settle all my Accounts and to Act as They may

think proper as witness my hand and seal this 18th day Oct. in 1775.

Arthur Hopkins

Pyton Smith

David Willis

Mary her Bolton

mark

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Reel 11

A Receipt for the Comsumption Visit

Take 1d brown Sugar, 1 pint Honey, 1 quart of best apple Vinegar

1d Alicumpaign —oots washed & sliced, 1 Handfull Ground Ivy,

1 Handfull Horhound (?), Put all those Ingridents into a Stone Jug.

Put the Jug into an oven hot enough to roast apples. Stop the oven

——(?) & let the Jug stand till it is cool. Then take it out & it is fit

——(?). Take a Table spoonfull of this Liquid evry monring two

hours before you eat & know not the one Jugfull be sufficient to

Effect a Cure. Continue to take another or until it is Effected.

Your Diet must be neither Greasy nor salty or milkly (?) You must

likewise abstain from all Spiritous Liquors.

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Letter from Guy Smith to his brother John Smith, Jr. of the Pocket Plantation:

Dear Sir

I hope you freely Excuse my not attending several days of

sale, which I know to be my duty, was it in my Power but as

I am Convinced that Every act of yours will be agreeable to

me I therefore hope it will be attended with no disadvantage.

I have now sent to borrow (?) horse to go and forbid the sale

of some thing at ——’s (?) and this day to be sold that the

Widow Sarin left behind her when she Ran away. Thomas and Jamy

Self (?) were the securities for the administration of her

Husband’s Estate. She has Run away and Carried Every thing she

could and (?) so (?) two other Men are gone in Pursuit after

her—I haven’t 1/2 done Planting Corn nor Made one Tobacco

Hill, and what since(.) send me Word if you will Come up soon,

if you Can’t as soon as I have done Planting Corn I will Come

down—I have sent all the Peas I have and Water Million seed.

Yours as ——(?),

May 1770 Guy Smith

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Letter from Thomas Smith (may have been a half brother) :

Dear Sir

I have at Lat got your Money Glansted(?) Ransom(?) owed you the sum is L 5,2,6 the money is Ready at Aney(sic) time when aney(sic) person Comes for it I should have sent it by Mr. Graver but ——(?) in a ten pound Bill & I culd(sic) not Cum(sic) no Near than I (smear) in other money But I had this week change it for yu I have paid all your cost of Tehen(?) Receipts there was no lawyer fee sent in the Execution I have got a Copy of the Debt & which I shall send you with the Money I am afraid you Cant get the money for that Ickle(?) you sent me ago(?) Taylor however if he shall show a receipt for the money I shall distrain(?) for it this month without fail. I have nothing worth Relating to you so sall Conclude with my Best Respects to you & your family and am yr afft Brother

Tho. Smith

July 10th 1771

I have also a receipt

from Watts for his fee

which was when out

of the above I am as

you’ll see when I send

you the money TS

Letters to John Smith, Jr. from Dr. James Hopkins, his brother-in-law:

Albermarle the 19th September 1770

Dear Sir

It’s now a full twelve month since I had the great pleasure of receiving your letter dated from the Warm Springs in Augusta, for which favour I think you with all my Heart. I hope the Satisfaction to learn by your Brother that your State of Health is much amended. Since that time, which trust in the Almighty will “continue” to increase into Perfect Health. At the time I received the above Letter I little expected it would have been so long since (?) I should have an opportunity of seeing you or at least returning an Answer. As to what relates to the Balance due from my Father’s Estate to you I cannot exactly ascertain it, as there are a few articles on the Debit Side of the Acct. which are not Carried out, but if you have kept the Acct. by which I make no doubt of, you may form a very near agreement of the Quantum of it. As your own hand writing appears every where interposed throughout the whole of my Father’s acct. almost to last I don’t doubt but they exactly Correspond. As to your request of drawing off the whole Debt ——(?) of the Acct. there is indeed nothing in power which I would not perform at your desire nor can I deny but I might have done it at different times since I recd yours till now. But believe me Sir it seems of such an extraordinary length containing seven large ——(?) of the Book, that I was almost deterred from the undertaking, for I solemnly assume that what between the Business of the Estate and attendance on the Sick I have scare been at home two whole days together for some months, but my Dear Sir I hope to see you down here this Fall which will make that trouble needless as you may then not only see the acct. but receive the Balance—but if that Cannot be you may depend I will either send or bring it to you this Fall or Spring. As before that I can’t possibly have time, our affairs & Fatigues being now almost as Bad as Ever. However I still hope our Disputes & Debts are drawing near a Crisis which I trust in the Supreme Being will end favourably (sic). In fine (fall?) I think the produce of our present Crop will pay all the Debts & therefore Intend to divide the Estate this Winter. My Dear Sir I know this will rejoice you to hear of & when it shall be the Almighty God will (give?) pleasure to grant me to See our Crop & do Justice by the world then if Life & Health permits I can see you with the greatest Felicity which we poor Mortals are permitted to enjoy on this side of Futurity—I can then recount to you all my woes past with the Same Sensations as a Pilot lost with Tempest & Storms at Sea feels, after he is safe in port haveing (sic) redeemed his Cargo from the Dreadful War. Pray write to me by Sister Ann Smith if you can’t come & if you desire a copy of the Acct. I will endeavour to write it but(and?) while she is here I send it, but must make a Book to do it on—

to my Dear Sister & Family I’m

My dear Sir with true respect

Jas. Hopkins

All Friends here are well

I believe but M. Cabell’s Family

their poor little Child is so ill

that she expects to lose her

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Tuesday Evening 8 Jan 1771

Dear Sir

I (part of letter missing) most Concern to learn by my (part of letter missing) still in a bad state of Health haveing (sic) never received a letter from you since you were at the Springs was much in hopes you were in a mending Condition. Heaven is my witness with how much pain of mine I Hear it is otherwise—If it should please Divine Providence to grant my Petition my first wish should be to see you once more in Perfect Health. My Heart is so full on this Occasion that I want Words to express my Anxiety, when I reflect how long it may be still before I may have that Pleasure. My Dear Sir I know you will here be ——(?) to say to yourself Can this be Sincere. Can a young man now at Liberty to follow his own Inclinations, divested of the Care of a Family find no small Interval from other pursuits to ride 70 or 80 miles to visit so dear & loved a Friend. Sometimes I fancy that all my Friends think I am all this while following the pleasures & amusements of Gay youth without so much as Bestowing a thought on any of them. Alas! how very much, how very different from this have been the last four years of my life, is as much impossible for me to express, as it would to pen a large History in a half sheet of paper. But to waste no more time (which even now grudges me day light) Please to receive some Spermleti (?) which is to be melted in a pint of Honey after it a Cup of Hepsop (?), Colesfoot (?) or Ground Ivy Tea, take 15 drops of the Balsam every morning on a lump of Wht. Sugar & after it a Cup of ——(?) Tea. Consult the Inclosed paper from an Excellent Author, lest you think me Singular in recommending the sovereign remedy of ——(?)

Your ever aff. servant

Ja Hopkins

(written on left side of the paper:)

PS Live chiefly on Fresh fish & Flesh. Avoid everything salt, of either as well as Spirituous Liquors, at least unless largely Diluted. If possible I will come in the Spring. Beg you to believe my Best prayers & wishes attend you & my sister & family JH

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10 March 1773

My Dear Sir

I never till yesterday received any Certain Acct of you Illness, & the God of Truth only knows with what grief & Apiety (?) of mind I heard of it being so Violent. There is nothing in this world but inability prevents me from seting (sic) out immediately to see you—but assure you I have had frequent Touches & indeed at this time am much Indisposed with a Disorder which appears to be nearly similar to yours & Tomorrow if able must attend in Court on a Law suit—but (unreadable) you about Cares—which when compare with what I feel for you seem Trivial—If it should pleasure Almighty God to call me hence–I should not be much missed & The tender endearing names of Husband & Parent are not mine–perhaps never should I go single—your Lot is quite different. The tender Husband, the Indulgent Parent, the Generous Benefactor & Friend, would be lost to your Poor Family & Relations. May the Almighty God & Father of mercies preserve my Dearest Friend—whom I not only love with the warmest Sincerity & affection as a Brother but with the Reverence & Respect almost of a Father. Till I can have the Happiness once more to see him—but perhaps I am too much alarmed, perhaps your illness has been exaggerated–or (?) I flatter myself that it is—Receive then the advice of the celebrated Dr. Mead Bleeding, when the Fever runs high in Consumptive & ——(?) Disorders, ought not only to be used once but Repeated—even tho the Body be weak—which I have known give relief in cases deemed almost Deplorable—Have also sent you a phial of Tinchur said to be excellent to be given 15 or 20 drops in any agreeable Tea—My Earnest prayers to that Heavenly Being who rules & Governs all things shall be addressed for your Relief—but if it shall be his Almighty Will to call you out of this troublesome life I doubt not but he will give you that Christian Patience & Fortitude, which always accompany the hopes & ——(?) of a better your ever affet.

Js Hopkins

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Letter from David Ross to John Smith, Jr.

Mr. John Smith Goochland Courthouse

Sir

Mr Aylett has just now delivered me your favour of 15 Aug. Where in you say ‘to put an end to the dispute between’ us you’ll leave the remaining part of the dispute between us to men ‘to be agreed upon when I come up—A letter of this kind from you some years ago would have surprized me fully much but some late occurrences (sic) makes it less matter of wonder—know I cannot account for what your meaning when you talk of the remaining part of our dispute—–Did you not read all the dispute on the settlement of the payments towards your Father’s bond ‘was not the proper relation thin ——(?) love(?) before Gentlemen of your own naming & how did you ad (answer?) upon that occassion (sic) & did you acquisce under Their judgment as it becomes every man when he leaves smaller in disputes to disinterested judges. I never indicated that I made a partiall referrence to those men I fully expected that their award would finally end in a controversie in as far as I said above I understand not what you mean by any reference of the remaining part of our dispute. True it is when you expressed your great suprize & discontent at those Gentlemen’s determination, I told you not to be uneasy that I would absolve you of their award and if you choose to accept of it I would be as good and my word & the matter should be determined by——? judges but you are not to expect from this that I am to continue referring of it untill men are found that will settle it as you would have it & I hope this is not your meaning——Mr. Smith time was when these subsided (resided?) between us a good understanding, unless you disamble much, I was willing to avoid every thing on my part that might interupt that friendship &——(?) That we shall either settle our acct. our selves or at least by the interposition of a couple of friends. little did I think that those my friendly intentions would have been construed by you into a villanous design upon your family, and you may Judge how I feel when I was told in a Gentlemen’s house in New London ab(out) 4 weeks ago that such were your espressions—That I evaded a settlement of your acct. that I myself take the advantage of your family after your death—Days passed(?)——llary indeed—however I must take the liberty to say apiece this occassion that such ungenerous thought & such expressions never rose in the heart or were uttered by the mouth of anyone really honest. When you consider the names? in what you’ve heeded me you’ll excuse my avoiding any further settlement before References as you might ad (address?) in some manner as before–Law Suits are disagreeable to me as well on acct. of the expenses as the delay I shall always shun them as much as possible. I shall keep up the Suit that I have against your ‘lie——(?) the 10th Oct. & your paying by that time what you in Justice ought to have paid many years ago, will save you any further expence & put an end to our disputes in this matter.

I am in hast

Sir

10th Septem. Your most hum. Servant

1771 David Ross

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Letter from Joseph Cabell, brother-in-law to John Smith, Jr.

Dear Sir

I Fully intended to come over with Cosen (cousin) Betsy at

Court had she stayed till that time and am in hope to do it

still, if not prevented By any unforeseen Accident, should

that be the Case I shall be much oblige to you to send me the

Cash by some safe hand. I have seen Tuggle and have got the

power of attorney & Bill of Sale and got Wm Charles Ross’

opinion who says They are good, the first must be Recorded he

says which I shall take Care to have done he say(s) it will

be no problem(?) to get a Bill Sale from John Tuggle too, that

I think you have. Tuggle will Be at Court for part of his

money he says and Will be much oblige to you to meet him there

My Wife Joins me in Compliments to Sister Family and all

friends and am will esteem

——(?)——(?) affect.

Jos. Cabell

16th Oct 1775

(on back: To John Smith

Pittsylvania)

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1777 Recpt for L 12 for educating Widow Smith’s children

22 Feb 1777 William Dabney

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1779 Letter from James Ross sending $500 “in part of acct. with you (crops included corn, wheat, hemp, tobacco )

Mem. Rects. from Capt. Arthur Hopkins on Acct. of the legacy of

L 50 left him by his father’s Will. First Recd to Caleb Hone 17th April 1775

1820 Ralph Smith, son of John Smith, Jr., and Wm Steptoe (of Bedford County, and long time county clerk) were executors of estate of Henry G. Callaway.

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1823 Achilles Smith of Campbell County borrowed money from Ralph Smith, signed:

his

Achilles Smith

mark

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Heirs of Ralph Smith included Elizabeth (Eliza) Calland

Amah (Annah) B. Callaway

Samuel Smith Sr.

William W? Smith

Alex Leftwich

John Smith, Jr.

“We the Legates of Ralph Smith Decd.” (1827)

Amah B. Callaway

John Smith Sr.

Elizabeth Calland

Samuel Smith Sr.

from Abstracts of Bedford County, Virginia wills, inventories and accounts, 1754–1787, by Joida Whitten, Dallas, Texas: Taylor, 1968, p. 121; p. 2.

Pages

402–404: GUY SMITH Will

Dated: 10 January 1781

“...if Bedford County; and parish of Russell...”

I confirm unto my daughter Anne Trigg whatever I have already given her.

I confirm unto my daughter Elizabeth Smith whatever I have already given her.

I lend to my daughter Joannah Hail during her lifetime two negroes now in the possession of Abednego Hail, to wit, Fann and Stepney. At her decease Stepney to my granddaughter Mary Hail. Fann to the rest of the said Joannah Hails children, the said Mary Hail excepted. I lend to my wife Anne Smith my “house Houshold and Kitchen furniture” excepting for my writing desk with the land and plantation whereon I now live with a child’s part of my slaves and all the stock of cattle, hogs and sheep during her widowhood provided nothing mentioned shall be construed to hinder her from giving any part of the stock to the children should they marry.

I give to my son Bird B. Smith my writing desk.

My desire is that my estate shall be kept together to educate my children and that my son Guy Smith receive a liberal education out of my estate.

My desire is that a “Neat Hunting Sadle” be purchased out of my estate for my daughters Lucy Susannah and Katie Bowker and a “Neat Mans Sadle” for my son Guy.

My will is that as my children shall marry I desire that they may have a proportional part of my estate so as not to exceed what I have already given to my now married children to be laid off by a majority of my Executors and whomever else my wife may appoint as assistants to them.

My desire is that my copper still shall be kept for the benefit of my wife and unmarried children (to wit) Jenny Bird Bowker, Lucy Susannah Katie Bowker and Guy.

My desire is that whatever of my estate may remain after my children are all married excepting my wife’s part to be equally divided amongst my children Joannah Anne, Elizabeth Bird Bowker Jenny Lucy Susannah Katie Bowker and Guy.

I give to my sons Bird B. Smith and Guy Smith all the land I hold in this County to be equally divided between them, exclusive of a child’s part of my other estate.

In case of the death or marriage of my wife, my desire is that my estate be kept together as aforementioned after the death of my wife my desire is that her part of the estate shall be kept together till all the children have their equal shares and then for her part to be divided equally amongst the children (to wit) Joannah Anne Elizabeth Jenny Bird Bowker Lucy Susannah Katie Bowker and Guy.

My desire is that each of my unmarried children be furnished with a saddle horse out of my stock and should my stock of horses be too numerous all the superfluous part be sold.

I desire that my land in Buckingham County which I purchased of Stanlay Gower be sold and the money arising therefrom to be for the benefit of my unmarried children as my Executors and wife may see cause.

My desire is that whichever of my sons Bird Bowker or Guy shall possess the place whereon I now live in case of the death or marriage of my wife I give to him my copper still.

My desire is that as soon as the season for mares are over that my stallion be sold and the money applied to my estate.

I give to my son Guy Smith my shot gun.

My desire is that my books of all kinds be equally divided between my sons Bird Bowker Smith and Guy Smith so as “no” to break a set and as I have an order on James Speed of Charlotte County for 10,000 pounds of inspected tobacco my desire is that it be sold for the benefit of my children.

Executors: Daniel Trigg, Stephen Smith, and Bird B. Smith

Witnesses: W. Leftwich, Nimrod Newman, William Arther

Proven: 24 September 1781 by oaths of William Leftwich and Nimrod Newman. Executor: Stephen Smith. Security: William Leftwich, Robert Cowan. Liberty being reserved to the other Executors named in said Will to join in the probate thereof when they shall think fit.

(Note: There are no commas evident between the names of Guy Smith’s children except for those few commas shown in the foregoing abstract.)

Pages GUY SMITH Inventory and Appraisement

4–6 Not dated

Negroes Iross, Peter, Emanuel, Joe, Gabriel, Dick, Tenor, Grace, Issabel, James, George, Hagar, Hannah, Phill, Rose, Sarah and Luce

Listed: household goods, livestock, farm equipment

Included: 6 silver spoons (1 pound), 7 prints (10 pounds) 1 pair bullet molds, one “Smoothboar Gun”.

Appraisers: William Leftwich, Francis Hopkins, John Phelps

Returned: 27 May 1788

from Abstracts of Bedford County, Virginia Will Book 2 with inventories and accounts, 1788–1803 abstracted by Joida Whitten, 1980, p. 98.

Pages 375–385 GUY SMITH Account Current

375–385 Executor: Stephen Smith

Dated from 5 September 1782

Mentioned: Annaky (a slave); Henry Ward, Deputy Sheriff (for taxes); 23 Sept. 1782 “To cash paid the tax on the Estate for the purpose of raising a regular Soldier by class No. 14 as per receipt...”; Walter Urquahart; Edwd. Donoho (for Iron); Henry Ward, Deputy Sheriff (for taxes)); Wm. Swanson; 15 Nov. 1783 “To Cash paid in part of a Judgment in the court of Buckingham as per rect. Lindseys admr. vs Smith Exors in consequence of Guy Smiths being Secy. for Tho. Smith D.S. to Jacob Linsey 158.0.0”: Precilla Davis; Obadiah H. Trent (for taxes); Will Matthews (for blacksmith’s account); Francis Thorps peto. in Bedford Court; Tho. Overstreet; “...in part of Anthonys Exon.”; Thomas Prunty D.S. of Henry for commission on Lindseys Exon.; “To John Keeths attendance as a witness for Guy Smith vs. Franklin”; cash paid on a/c of two Judgments in Buckingham Court John Thompson vs. Guy Smiths Exor. & Lewis’s Extx. vs. Same 25.19.6 1/2; David Wright; Col. Otey; 27 June 1786 To cash paid in part of a Decree in Chancery Hairstons exor. vs. Guy Smith’sExor....60.0.0; Cash paid in part of Gannaways Judgt. vs. Smiths Exors...15.8.6; Colo Leftwich; pd. John Claytors claim as a witness for Mitchell ads. Smiths Exor. on which was a nonsuit; pd. Clk. of Buckingham; pd. Clerk of “Bottetourt”; pd. Will Hudnal for Schooling Guy; Clerk of Henry; Will S. Crawford 2 fees ads. the suit of Hairstons Exor.; Ross & Hooks Jdgt. in the General Court; Clerk of the General Court; Clerk of Franklin (tax on appeal and a writ); Colo. Quarles; pd. James Buford in part of a Debt due to Wm. Thorp from the Estate for his crop; 16 Apl. (Apr.?)1790 pd. Edmd. Fontain in a suit in Chancery in Buckingham Court agt. Lindsays admr.; 10 Nov. 1790 pd. Saml. Anderson for sundry fees in Buckingham Court; Clerk of the District Court; Clerk of the Court of Chancery; James Callaway & Co.; 24 September 1791 paid Wm. Giles an attos. fee & tax in the high Court of Chancery vs. Lindsay; Robt. Williams; 6 May 1793 pd. the costs of a Suit vs. Richd. Wilson in “Bottourt”; Colo. Geo. Hancock; Sheriff of Patrick; pd. Mr. Clarke an atto. fee ad. DuVall assee. of Thorps Exors.; 3 Dec 1782 paid the costs of three suits in Henry Court Swanson vs. Smiths Exors.; 1 Bushel Corn for Peter; pd. Lusay for Making 3 pr. Silver Shoe Buckles; Abednego Hail; cash pd. Mr. Jones “(or Innis)” in part of fees; Millar & Lawson fees ads. Lindsay; Mr. Anderson a fee ads. Linsay; calico for Lucy; cash sent Mr. Randolph fee ads. Ross & Hook; Colo. Leftwich; Mr. Hook; cash pd. Mr. Winston fee ads. Linsey; Mr. Millar (fees); Mr. Anderson (fees); Mr. Innes (fees and advice); cash pd. for Whiskey for Hannah; paid Arthur Robertson for linen and gauze for Mrs. Terry; Ste. Preston (salt); Mr. Miller (trial fees); cash pd. for make a saddle for Lucy; a saddle for Sukey; calico for Lucy and Sukey; Will Standefer for going to Richmond with a copy of record; pid Mr. Winston a fee ads. Bolling; Sam Crockett; John Roberts; Wm. Thorp; pd. Daniel Call atto fee in the high Court of Chancery Smith Exor. vs. Lindsay admr.; John Staples Sheriff of Henry; Jesse Heard Sheriff Pittsylvania; Henry Hoff; Henry Ward (taxes); Colo. William Leftwich; David M. Randolph, Marshall of Virginia; Callaway & Early; James Spencer (for brandy); Mr. Jameson; John Talbot; A. Hale; St. Goggin; Negroes Manuel, Gabriel, Dick, Venus, Rachel, John, Sam, Tener and child, Phil, Isbel, George,

Signed: 1 July 1802 by Benjamin Rice, Michael Graham, David Saunders

Returned: 25 October 1802.

Andrew Jackson Papers

The Brigadier Genl of the 7th Division Orders–August 13th

Brigade 2 Division Tennessee 1812

Nearly two months has lapsed since the date of my orders of the 19th day of June last, requiring the Generals of each Brigade in my Division, forthwith to furnish a Detachment of two hundred & eighty men officers included ——? as said order ——? preferred ? ? and as so soon as organized as in said orders directed, that complete muster rolls and inspection returns should be made to me without delay—It is therefore, with extreme pain and regret I have to notice your inattention and neglect in not carrying the said order into full affect—I am now on the 13th of August without your muster roll and inspection returns—Our government is engaged in a Just and necessary war, every military officer ought therefore to be prompt in executing all orders directed to him without which service must suffer, and part of our brave soldiers now in the field, may be cut off for the want of reinforcements—the governor of the state cannot fail to notice the delay and calls for a fulfillment of his order—his order must be obeyed—and no delay in future will be permitted, and ? on the general of Division will not ? over another—you will therefore before the 22d instant, furnish me with muster rolls and inspection returns for the 280 men officers inclusive agreeable to my order of the 19th of June last—and make return of rolls of on all the volunteers of your Brigade that have lessered (?) there (?) service under the order of Congress authorizing the president to accept the 50,000 volunteers as heretofore ordered—and on the receipt of this order you will please to acknowledge it—

Andrew Jackson Major

Genl 2 Division Tennessee

(on back:)

Copy of Division

Order to Genl. B.

Smith 7th Brigade

of 13th August 1812

========================================================================

I refer you to my Division order of the 31st of July as published in the Clarion of August 4 1812, and require you to forward rolls of the volunteers in your Brigade without delay in conformity therewith.

Andrew Jackson

Major Genl 2 D T

Brig. Gen. B. Smith

Sept 8th 1812

========================================================================

Dear General

I have taken the liberty to order Capt Smith for the purpose of marching the new drafts as well as the deserters. how he will succeed you will be apprised on his return to you. I have wrote two different times apprising that I was always on the alert to sent on the delinquents of which Capt Smith will inform you. Please direct your orders to me at White Plains & as usual they shall be properly put in action (?)——Unfortunately I was in Nashville when your Captain arrived & several days lapsed before I was honored with your commands.

With every wish for your happiness

McMinnville I remain with great regard

15th Dec 1813 yours

Bird Smith

Genl 7th Brigade

Hynes Papers

Correspondence

2–15 to 2–22, 1815

Tulane University Library Special Collection

New Orleans, Louisiana

Muster Roll of the Field and Staff Officers of the Division of West Ten. Militia Infantry under the command of Maj. Gen. William Carroll in the service of the United States from 13 Nov. 1814, when mustered into service serving to

Names Rank Dates of To what Names present

appointment engaged

========================================================================

1. William Carroll Maj. Gen. 13Nov1814 13May1815 William Carroll

2. William White Aid “ comd “ “ “ William White

3. Andrew Hynes Aid de camp “ comd “ “ “ Andrew Hynes

4. Peter Grayson Adj. Gen. “ comd “ “ “ Peter Grayson

5. James Baxter Jno. Gen. “ comd “ “ “ James Baxter

6. William I. Smith Q.M. Gen. “ comd “ “ “ William I. Smith

7. Bazil Shaw Asst. Adj. Gen. “ comd “ “ “ Bazil Shaw

8. Robert Hays Asst. Adj. Gen. “ comd “ “ “ Robert Hays

9. Sterling Robertson Asst. QM Gen. “ comd “ “ “ Sterling Robertson

10.Charles Manton Judge Adv. “ comd “ “ “ Charles Manton

11.Andrew M. Lausk Top. Eng. “ comd “ “ “ James W. Harris

12.James W. Harris Asst.Top.Eng. “ comd “ “ “ James W. Harris

Bird Smith Brig. Gen. “comd “ “ “ Bird Smith

George W. Gibbs 1st Lieut “comd “ “ “ George W. Gibbs

Aid to C. “comd “ “ “

Jas. M’Campbell Capt. & B.P. “comd “ “ “ Jas. M’Campbell

Bird Wright Capt. & Q.M. “comd.” “ “ Bird Wright

========================================================================First Regiment

========================================================================

1. William Metcalfe Col. Com. “ “ “ “ William Metcalfe

2. James Henderson Lieut. Col. “ “ “ “ James Henderson

3. John W. Simpson 1st Maj. “ “ “ “ John W. Simpson

4. William Wood 2d Maj. “ “ “ “ William Wood

5. Swift Mullen Adj. 1st Lt. Com. “ “ “ Swift Mullen

6. Alex Perryman Q. Mas. 1st Lt. Com “ “ “ Alex Perryman

7. Hugh Harrison Serj. Maj. “ “ “ “ Hugh Harrison

8. Martin Canddock? Q.M.S. Martin Canddock?

p. 2 Carroll’s New Orleans officers’ muster roll

9. Samuel Owens Surgeon “Comd “ “ “ “ Samuel Owens

10.Nicholas Edwards 1st S. Mate “Comd “ “ “ “ Nicholas Edwards

11.Benj. F. Harris 2d S. Mate “Comd “ “ “ “ Benj. F. Harris

12.George Foster Chaplin “Comd “ “ “ “ George Foster

13.Hosea Ligge Fife Maj. “ “ “ “ “ Hosea Ligge

========================================================================Second Regiment

========================================================================

1. John Cocke Col. Com. “ “ “ “ John Cocke

2. Robert Jarman Lieut.Col. “ “ “ “ Robert Jarman

3. Lewis Powers 1st Maj. “ “ “ “ “ Lewis Powers

4. John H. Burton 2d Maj. “ “ “ “ John H. Burton

5. Bayliss E. Prince Lieut.Adj. “Comd “ “ “ Bayliss E. Prince

6. John M’Clure Chaplin “Comd “ “ “ John M’Clure

7. Benj. Cocke Q.M. “Comd “ “ “ Benj. Cocke

8. Hinchen Wilkerson Surg. “Comd “ “ “ Hinchen Wilkerson

9. Thomas Roberts 1st Sur.Mate “Comd “ “ “ Thomas Roberts

10.Asabel Brownson 2d Sur.Mate “Comd “ “ “ Asabel Brownson

11.Peter P. Roberts S.Maj. “ “ “ “ Peter P. Roberts

12.Henry Shelby Q.M. “ “ “ “ Henry Shelby

13.John Caldwell Fife M. “ “ “ “ John Caldwell

14.John Stone Drum M “ “ “ “ John Stone

========================================================================Third Regiment

========================================================================

1. James Roulston Col. Com. “ “ “ “ James Routston

2. Wright Williams Lieut.Col. “ “ “ “ Wright Williams

3. Charles Watkins 1st Maj. “ “ “ “ Charles Watkins

4. David Abbets 2d Maj. “ “ “ “ David Abbets

5. James Young 1st Lieut & Adj “Comd” “ “ James Young

6. Allen Harvey 1st Lieut & Q.M.”Comd “ “ “ Allen Harvey

7. Samuel Hodge Chaplin “Comd “ “ “ Samuel Hodge

8. Wm. T. Lawrence Surgeon “Comd “ “ “ Wm. T. Lawrence

9. Lounsford C. Pitts 1st Sur.Mate “Comd “ “ “ Lounsford C. Pitts

10.Georg Monroe 2d Sur.Mate “Comd “ “ “ George Monroe

11.James Dyer Serj. Maj. “Comd “ “ “ James Dyer

12.Archebald Young Q.M. Serj. “Comd “ “ “ Archebald Young

13.James Grace D. Maj. “Comd “ “ “ James Grace

p. 3 Carroll’s New Orleans officers’ muster roll

(on back)

========================================================================

5th Regt

========================================================================

Commanded by Edwin S. Boothe

Chaplin

William Armstrong Adjutant Commpany(sic) sent

George Southerland Quarter Master by Maj. F. Armstrong

Wyatt Surgeon

Staff of the 4th Regiment Commanded by

Saml. Bayless

Chaplin

Adjutant

Surgeon

Surgeon’s mate

Lewis Dillahunty Capt. Volunteer Company Infantry

Daniel M. Bradford 1st Lieutenant

William Priestly 2d Lieutenant

James G. Murdock Ensign

James Gevin Chaplin Genl John Coffee’s Brigade

mounted gun-men forming

dated 28 Sep 1814

White County, Tennessee Deeds 1809–1877

Book G., pp. 507–508

This Indenture made and entered into this 2nd day of August A.D. 1826 between Wm. I. Smith, William Jones, Susannah Reed, Polly I. Smith, Jordan G. Stokes, Guy Smith, John I. Smith, Bird B. Smith, Abram T. Smith, Thomas I. Smith, Josiah Pullin & William McClellan of the one part and Madison Fish of the Other part. Witness that for an consideration of the sum of fifteen dollars Sixty two and one half cents to them in hand paid the receipt where hereby acknowledged they the first above named parties have bargained, Sold, assigned & conveyd. unto him the said Madison Fish of the second part an lot of land lying & being in the Town of Sparta in the County of White & State of Tennessee; conveyd. by the commissioners of said Town of Sparts to Bird Smith decd. & as heirs of whose said first named parties claim; which said lot of land are bounded as follows. To wit: Beginning at a post standing in the intersection of the lines of the cross street & back of lot running thence so as to incircle the said Lot No 89 agreeable to the plan of said Town To have and to hold the aforesaid Lot of land with the appertures thereunto belonging unto him the said Madison Fish, his heirs & so forth & the aforesaid first named parties for them Silver?, their heirs & the right title & claim of the aforesaid Lot of land to him the said Madison Fish his heirs and will w——(?) & forever defend against the claim of all and every preson or persons whatsoever or by whatsoever means claiming. In testimory whereof they the first named parties have hence? unto set their hands & seals this day & date first above written.

Witness Wm. I. Smith Seal

Gidon Smith Wm. Jones Seal

Robert Parks Susannah Reed Seal

Polly I. Smith Seal

Jordan G. Stokes Seal

Guy Smith Seal

John I. Smith Seal

Bird B. Smith Seal

A. T. Smith Seal

Thos. I. Smith Seal

Josiah Pullin Seal

Wm. B. McClellan Seal

Executive Department, City of Houston, March 25th, 1842

To Major Thomas J.(sic) Smith

Sir: I have been informed that there are some persons on the frontier who have a disposition to molest the Tancahua and Lipan Indians. They cannot be good citizens, or they would wish to preserve peace with them.

Should any property be stolen from the Indians, or injury done them, I hope you will have active measures taken for its restoration and for the preservation of their friendship. If they were hostile to us, they could do us much harm in our present critical condition. If our situation should require it, they could be rendered very useful by employing them against the common enemy.

I do hope, therefore, that you and other staid citizens, who have a substantive interest in the country, and wish your homes on the frontiers protected, would deliberately adopt such measures as will prevent all probable interruption and preserve tranquility.

Sam Houston

from Executive Record Book, No. 40, p. 75, Texas State Library

Executive Department

City of Houston, July 26, 1842

To Thomas I. Smith and Eli Chandler, Esq.

Gentlemen,

The Executive has always had it in contemplation to retaliate upon Mexico, for the late outrages upon the persons and property of Texian citizens. To accomplish this, he must rely upon voluntary service alone. The chivalry and patriotism of his countrymen, when well directed, can accomplish much. He is determined, that nothing shall be wanting on his part to effect the object in view. For its effectuation he proposes to receive upwards of a thousand men to be mounted, equipped and prepared at their own expense for the proposed campaign.

The Government will promise nothing but authority to march, and such supplies of ammunition as may be needful for the campaign. They must took (sic) to the valley of the Rio Grande for remuneration. The Government will claim no portion of the spoils. They will be divided among the victors. The flag of Texas will accompany the expedition.

It is proposed to raise the requisite number of men West of the Trinity. If they were to march from Eastward of that river to the Western country, the men and horses would consume the substance indispensable to family use, and prevent emigration for the want of supplies.

Those who are expected to march will start from home with a sufficiency of provisions to support them to the rendezvous—and they are interdicted from feeding their horses on grain.

At the point of rendezvous, which will at the proper time be directed at the Sulphur Spring near the mouth of the Cibol, they will prepare the requisite amount of provisions from cattle contributed to sustain them till they reach the Rio Grande. They will have authority to cross and make such reprisals upon Mexico as civilized and honorable warfare will justify in our present relations with our common enemy.

As soon as the troops are raised in the several counties, they will elect their company officers; as soon as organised into companies in the several counties, will forthwith report by express to the War Department; and as soon as possible thereafter the Executive will appoint the time of rendezvous, and when they shall have arrived at their rendezvous, they will elect their field officers for one regiment. As soon as practicable, they will take up their line of march. Previous to that time, however, orders from the Executive will reach them suggesting the general plan of a campaign, subject to be varied by the circumstances of the service in which they may be engaged.

As no regular draft or detail is made to compose the force, but relying upon the ardor and willingness heretofore expressed in the different sections of the country, and assurances that many were anxious to volunteer, and not wishing to employ our whole force on the present occasion—I have thought proper to tender the opportunity to the counties in the following order—the citizens of which, if they should volunteer to the amount named will compose a force of thirteen hundred and twenty men, exclusive of One hundred Indian spies, to be employed as the Commanding Officer may think best, but not to be permitted to perpetuate any excuses of savage warfare.

Washington County.....................132

Bastrop........................................132

Fayette.........................................132

Montgomery................................132

Robertson..................................... 66

Milam............................................66

Austin............................................66

Brazoria.........................................66

Fort Bend......................................66

Harris.............................................66

Gonzales........................................66

Matagorda.....................................66

Colorado & Ward..........................66

Jackson & Victoria.......................132

Bexar (Hays & Manchaca).............66

Total 1320

Lipans & Tonkeways.....................100

Aggregate........................1429

It will be of the utmost importance that concert of action should take place, and to give efficiency it is proper that the troops should not be detained at the rendezvous any longer than they can be organised. Discontent perhaps would be the consequence and the prospect of achieving something of importance to the country by the campaign would be lost.

The Executive has great reliance upon the zeal of his countrymen and their willingness to pursue such a course as will give protection to our South Western frontier for the future; and he is satisfied, if this expedition can be carried into effect, that the country has much to hope from its results. As soon as it may be organised and marches, it will be indispensable to maintain the strictest subordination. In entering any enemy’s territory constant vigilance is necessary; and men who expect to maintain their safety must always be on the alert. By caution, we prevent disaster—and vigilance will never permit us to be surprised. The troops will be permitted to remain in the enemy’s country until our independence is recognized, an armistice concluded, or until it might be deemed wise for their safety to recross the Rio Grande. The Government will have opportunities of intelligence which may not be within the knowledge of the Commander of the troops, and he will be, at all times, subject to the orders of the War Department.

When emergencies arise in the prosecution of the campaign, detached as the army will be in its situation, the commanding officers will have to exercise a sage discretion in relation to the subject which will be presented—always keeping in view the safety and success of his command—the preservation of his flag, and the honor of his country. The troops, by obedience to his orders and imitating his example will establish the highest claims to the admiration and gratitude of their fellow citizens and the Government of the Republic.

I have the honor to be

Very respectfully,

your obedient servant

Samuel H. Houston

P.S. One Colonel—one Lieutenant Colonel—and two majors will be elected. Each company will consist of at least sixty six men rank and file.

Mr. Raymond will please have the goodness to transcribe and forward the foregoing so as best to serve its intention and object; and thereby oblige his friend truly

Houston

(Original letter located at the Texas State Archives, Austin, Texas)

Executive Department, Washington, December 10, 1842

To Messrs. Thomas I. Smith and Eli Chandler—

Gentlemen–The importance of removing the public archives and government stores from their present dangerous situation at the City of Austin to a place of security, is becoming daily more and more imperative. While they remain where they are, no one knows the hour when they may not be utterly destroyed. They are constantly liable to attack and destruction by the enemy. A due regard to the rights and interests of every citizen of the Republic, therefore, imposes upon the Executive, under the constitution, the duty of providing for their safety. In performing that duty, he must rely upon the agency of those to whom he shall entrust the execution. Your prudence and energy, Gentlemen, point you out to me as the proper agents for the performance of the work. You will accordingly receive herewith full authority to act. The manner of effecting your object will be left to your sound judgment and discretion.

You will of course be attended by such aid as any contingent emergency may require. You are acquainted with the condition of things at Austin, and the exasperation of feeling pervading those who directly interested in that place. You will govern your movements so as to suffer no detriment, either to yourselves, or the property you may have in charge. Be prepared to act with efficiency. Do not be thwarted in the undertaking.

From the great weight of the archives, it will require at least some ten or fifteen wagons, with strong teams, to remove them.

It would, also, be well to conduct your operations with the utmost secrecy; and by all means raise a sufficient force to take possession of and guard the archives, before any rumor of your intended visit could possibly be received there. You might raise your men as if for an Indian excursion; and by no means let your object be known till you are ready to act. Threats have been made, that if the archives are ever removed, they will be in ashes. The loss to the country in such an event would be infinite and irreparable.

You can determine which would be the most eligible route—down the Colorado, or across the country to the Brazos. The latter would likely be the safer—particularly from Mexican attack.

The government offices being now here, the archives and all the public property, at the City of Austin, will be brought to this place.

You will report to Col. Thomas William Ward, Commissioner of the General Land Office, at Austin, and special agent in charge of the archives, who will give you all the facilities in his power.

Sam Houston

(from The writings of Sam Houston, 1813–1863, edited by Amelia W. Williams and Eugene C. Barker, Volume 7, pp. 226–227.)

(Private)

Robertson County Oct 30th 1842

To his Excellency

Sam Houston

Sir

A considerable degree of dissatisfaction prevails in several portions of our country from the circumstances of the Removal of Eden Stroude as Indian Commissioner. Your Enemies declare it was because he was not you Political friend. Your friends combat them by averring your want of confidence in his Skill and abilities in Indian habits etc.

But let the case be as it may be all duly appreciated his Services, the use of his purse. Your friends Particularly because it had aided you in carrying out the only parlay which appeared to them Rational in the present Situation of our country. if you can soothe Mr. Stroude without compromising the Interests of our beloved country your friends here will thank you—

Mr. Patton of this county was recommended to you as a proper Person for the Indian Agent. He is a most Excellent man and one who would be an honor to any County. But I understand from Col. Rus Parker his neighbour that he will not accept it if appointed. Under these circumstances I beg Your Excellency to permit me to Suggest to You Maj. Thomas I. Smith of Milam County as a suitable worthy and in Every aspect Qualified for the discharge of the various duties of Indian Agent for the Brazos River—he is favorable (sic) Known as one of our prudent but bold defenders.

If there is anything I can do please make it Known.

I am with Sentiments

of true friendship Your

H. Servant

E.L.R. Wheelock

Please Remember me to Mrs. Houston as your friend E.R. Wheelock

No Paper or wafers

(Orginial letter located at the Texas State Archives, Austin, Texas)

Falls of Brazos

28th day of 1842

Dear General

My object for including this upon your notice is to inform you that though the solicitations of many friends Thomas I. Smith has consented to accept the appointment of Indian agent (if) Your Excellancy may think perhaps to confer the favor and trust upon him.

As regards the moral worth interity patriotism and decision of character of Colonel Smith his acts speak for themselves of which I promise Your Excellency is added and I will take the liberty to add the voice of a large majority of the citizens on the Frontier is worthy of any respect in your decision. The Col. has that advantage over any other individual.

His uncomprising devotion to yourself as a Politican is only equaled by his attachemnt and admiration of the man.

Very Respectfully O. Ser.

T.I. Powel

(Orginial letter at Texas State Archives, Austin, Texas)

Yellow Prairie Milam County

21st June 1843

Genl. Sam Houston

Dear Sir

I returned home a few days since from my settlement near the Trinity River. it is all peace and quiet on the frontier at this time. the Delaware Indians sent word to me the Cadoes(sic) and Ionies was making corn on the Trinity above me. On yesterday a Shawnee Indian the son in law of Lynnie come to this place to see me to let leave to buy some amunition (sic) and said they was an Ionic with him and syes the Cadoes (sic) & Ionis is this side of the Trinity a bove fifteen miles from me. I am a fraid they will be disturbed where they are by a set of men that has now not answered to their name in the service of Texas since I have been a citizen. they is a company making up to start on the first of July on the ——(?) would it be wel (sic) Sir to have a stop put to locating on the frontier till the Indian line was designated. it might have a bad effect on the Indians to see ther (sic) cornfields surveyed by the whites. I have moved three families up that is left in a verry (sic) exposed situation if the Indians was hostile. I wil (sic) be in Washington a bout the 10th of July. please prist (sic) my best regards to your lady and accept yourself the best wishes of your friend.

Thos. I. Smith

(Orginial letter at the Texas State Archives, Austin, Texas)

Muster Row of Lt. Thomas I. Smith detachment of Robertson County Rangers, raised by order of the Hon. Wm. G. Cooke, Secretary of War and Marine ——(?). Mustered into the service of the United States on the 15th day of September A.D. 1845 and discharged on the 15th day of December A.D. 1845 by order of Hon. Wm. G. Cooke.

Name Term of Service Rank

1. Smith, Thomas I. 3 months 1st Lt.

2. Histine?, Robert S. 3 months 1st Sgt.

3. Bell, Thomas 3 months 2nd Sgt.

4. Patrick Calaway 3 months 1st Corp.

5. Capp, Elkana 3 months Private

6. Barrie, James B. 3 months Private

7. Barclay, Charles 3 months Private

8. Coker, Thomas 3 months Private

9. Carrington, John A. 3 months Private

10. Carrington, John 3 months Private

11. Cox, William 3 months Private

12. Evans?, Andrew 3 months Private

13. Howe, William R. 3 months Private

14. Johnson, Thomas 3 months Private

15. Killican, Melchesda? 3 months Private

16. Lewis, William I. 3 months Private

17. McDaniel, James 3 months Private

18. Miles, Edward 3 months Private

19. Menifee, Thomas S. 3 months Private

20. Menifee, John 3 months Private

21. Morrow, John 3 months Private

22. Mathews, Robert 3 months Private

23. Nanny ?, Shadrick 3 months Private

24. Pullen, Bird S 3 months Private

25. Sandford, James M. 3 months Private

26. Sevier, Charles 3 months Private

27. Sevier, George W. 3 months Private

28. Pullen, James R. 3 months Private

29. Shelton, Thomas 3 months Private

30. Thomas, John 3 months Private

31. Wycroff, Jacob 3 months Private

I Thomas I. Smith, Lieutenant Commanding Robertson County Rangers, do certify on honor, that the foregoing Muster roll correct, and that the pay due for subsistence amounts to nine hundred and thirty dollars, and the pay due for services amounts to eight hundred and ninety dollars in accordance with an act “For the protection of the Frontier approved Feb. 1st, 1845.

I also certify that the Detachment was discharged on the 15th day of December 1845.

(Signed) Thos. I. Smith

Lt. Comd. Robertson Co. Rangers

Torrey’s Trading House

Dec. 18?, 1845

True copy from the orginial now in file in the office of the Dept. of War & Marine

Wm. G. Cooke

31 July 1847 Clarksville Northern Standard

Austin, May 31, 1847

To the Editor of the Democrat:

The undersigned feels himself called upon, by the peculiar circumstances under which Capt. M. B. Howe ordered the troops, which this undersigned had the honor to command, to the headquarters of General Zachary Taylor to state to the people of Texas, the cause of the return of the troops under his command; not only for the sake of the reputation of his troops and himself, but more especially to prevent Capt. Howe from imposing himself again upon the people of our state by calling them from their farms and firesides, to the cause of war merely for the purpose of marching there and back again.

After the undersigned with the troops under his command arrived in Camargo and positioned himself under the call of Capt. Howe, lately made upon the people of Texas, he learned to his great surprise that the call of Capt Howe was altogether unauthorized by General Taylor that the authority which he had assumed by himself was a mere act of vanity and folly and that the troops would not and could not be referred (?) and mingled (?) as troops of the U.S. government.

Under these circumstances, the undersigned had no choice how to act, but was compelled as a matter of course to return, with his justly discontented and dissatisfied troops to their homes.

In order therefore that this Capt. Howe, who was ready to assume authority which had not been granted to him, and always forward when he should be diffident, diffident when he should be forward, may not again impose himself in his vain dreams of power and glory and cause the people of Texas to leave their home and spend their time and money, I have thought it fit to make these facts known to the public.

Thomas I. Smith, Commander Texas Volunteers

Washington County, Texas

County Courthouse

copied 16 March 1992

I, William B. McClellan of Washington County, Texas, being of sound mind and memory and Knowing the uncertainty of human life, do make and ordain this my last will and testament:

first: I will that all of my Just debts be paid.

Second: I give and bequeath to my wife, Juliet L. McClellan the homestead upon which I now reside, together with all the fixtures, improvements, Teams, Tools, Crop and Stock that my belong to said homestead at the time of my death for the term of her natural life, and after her death to be divided equally between my lawful heirs.

Thirdly: I will that the merchandise that I may have on hand at the time of my death, together with all notes and accounts that may be due me at that time, Shall be take charge of by my Executors, and in the Discretion of said Executors, they may continue the mercantile business in my name and behalf, for Such a length of time as they may consider for the best interests of my heirs; and shall proceed to collect all Sums of money due me—

and Fourthly: My Executors shall Sell the two tracts of land in Lee County, belonging to me, known as the Tigpen and the Laurence tracts at either private or public Sale, as they may deem best, and shall divide the proceeds of Sale of said lands together with all moneys that they may have collected from any and all sources belonging to my Estate, including all money or property that may descent to me by right of inheritance among my lawful heirs.

Sixthly: Having full confidence in the integrity and capacity of my two Sons, Albert G. McClellan and William R. McClellan, I hereby appoint and constitute the Said Albert G. McClellan and William R. McClellan the Executors of this my last will and testament and direct that they not be required to give Security as Such Executors and I hereby further direct that they be paid the lawful commissions for their Services as Executors of this my last will and testament.

In testimony whereof I hereunto Sign my name in the presence of witnesses this the 20th day of March A.D. 1880.

W.B. McClellan

Signed in the presence of

Branch A. Watson

Wm. N. Mayfield

Inventory of Estate of William B. McClellan (taken from original):

Real Property:

Homestead Place........................................................................................$1200.00

Grim or Tigpen Place..................................................................................$ 400.00

$1600.00

Personal Property:

2 Mules...............................................................................................$ 125.00

1 Wagon............................................................................................. $ 30.00

1 Hack................................................................................................ $ 50.00

1 Lot Plows.........................................................................................$ 20.00

Stock General Merchandise................................................................$1400.00

28 Bales of Cotton..............................................................................$1120.00

Cash on hand...................................................................................... $ 230.00

List of Claims......................................................................................................

Amount due on notes valued...............................................................$3200.00

Amount due on Accounts................................................ ......$1269.00

$7444.00

BROWN COUNTY, TEXAS

Hennigan and Dunn

(Case involving land bought by Charles E. Dunn, cousin of Judy Hennigan, for himself and J.E. Hennigan, husband of Judy, from McConnells, which proved to be a bad title. The year of the case was 1890.)

Emily C. Bennett et al

vs.

Charles E. Dunn et all Now on this the 23rd day of September Term 1890 this cause being called and all parties appeared by their counsel when Pltf discontinued Pltf (?) C. E. During and suggest the death of Pelt(/) W.B. Salmon discontinued as to him and all parties waiving a Jury submitted the matter in controversy to the Court where upon the Court having heard the pleading and the evidence and the agreements of counsel and having duly considered the cause dot find that the plaintiffs are entitled to recover of the defendants C. E. Dunn and J.E. Hennigan an undivided interest of 521 acres of land in controversy and the plaintiffs having discontinued their Suit as the defendants Isaac McConnell, R.C. McConnell and W.D.R. McConnell who disclaimed all interest in the land in controversy are not Entitled to Judgment against them.

The Court dot further find that the plaintiffs are not entitled to recover rents or damages and that defendants are not entitled to allowances of the value of improvements and doth so order and decree. Whereupon the Court doth order and decree that Plaintiff Susanna Watson, Williamson P. Strickland, Elizabeth S ——(?), Eliza A. Dodgin, and her husband John T. Dodgin, Odessa Payne and her husband, B.F. Payne, Thomas A. McCarty, Julia A. Douthitt, Josie Mable and her husband John Mable, Emma C. Gown and her husband R.G. Gown, Robert M. Strickland, Jane M. Roberts and her husband, G.M. Roberts, James T. McLany, Flora Wheeler and her husband, G. P. Wheeler, Susie J. Northcutt and her husband, E.M. Northcutt, Lizzie A.——(?), Martha Salmon, Charity J. Withers and her husband W.B. Withers, James T. Prewitt, Mattie Winn, Vivilla Winn, Char—(?) E. Strickland, John T. Strickland, Thomas Strickland, Janie E. Strickland, Lee Strickland, James M. Strickland, Tina Strickland, Mary F. Strickland, Russell J. Bates, Thomas A. Owens, Clifford A. Owens, Robert H. Bennett, Roxie M. Beadlow, Minane K. Graham and her husband, W.J. Graham, Mary E. Cassins and her husband, Isaac Cassins, Lavinia J. Stewart and her husband, W.B. Stewart, Rachel L. Waters and her husband, W.T. Waters, Sarah Dorsey and her husband, R.T. Dorsey, James S. Bennett and Morgan L. Parker, Guardian of the Estate of Jesse Parker and Judy Parker minors, recover of said C. E. Dunn and J.E. Hennigan the title and possession of an undivided interest of 570 acres of the following land lying in the County of Brown and State of Texas, to wit: a tract containing 640 acres patented to the heirs of Anthony Bates and conveyed to the heirs of Anthony Bates by letters patents of the State of Texas No. 387, Vol. 5 of Bounty land records in the General Land Office of the State of Texas and described as follows:

In Travis District on the waters of Clear Creek a western Branch of the Colorado river, about sixteen miles N. of said river and twenty miles above the ——(?) of Pecan Bayou, by virtue of Bounty Warrant No. 9722, issued by B.T. Archer Secretary of War on the 5th day of January 1841. Beginning at the East corner of Survey No. 145 made for Joseph Beale a stake from which a mesquite brs. N. 21 W 10 varas another bears N. 45 W. 40 varas. Thence N. 45 E. at 950 varas the S. corner of Survey No. 148 a stake from which a mesquite bears North 5 East 8 varas. Then N. 45 W. at 3802 varas the west corner of survey No. 148 a stone mound. Thence S. 45 W. at 250 varas a branch of Clear Creek at 950 varas the West corner, a stone mound. Thence S. 45 E. at 800 varas Clear Creek at 3l802 varas, the beginning. Bearing marked X and have their west? of possession place them in possession with Dunn and Hennigan. And that said plaintiffs recover of said Dunn and Hennigan their costs therein expended and have executed therefor. The Court doth further order and decree that Defendants Isaac McConnell, R.C. McConnel and W.D.R. McConnell go hence without day and recover of plaintiff the costs herein expended. And it further appearing to the court that deft. W.D.R. McConnell conveyed all of the land in controversy to the Deft. Dunn by General Warranty deed dated Sept. 14, 1885 and further did said deft. C. E. Dunn purchased and held the same for himself and deft. J.E. Hennigan jointly and was holding an undivided 1/2 thereof to wit: 320 acres of the same in trust for said Hennigan: that the title herein conveyed and warranted to defts. Dunn and Hennigan has failed to the extent of 571 acres of said land and the true title thereto has been established in the Pltf. And further that defts Dunn and Hennigan have heretofore paid the deft McConnell the sum of one thousand and fifty dollars, and that Deft. Dunn has executed his promissory note for the sum of $850.00 as further payment for said 640 acres of land to said McConnel ——(?) Sept. 14, 1885 and due ——(?) and which said note it appears that said McConnell still owns and holds. It is therefore considered by the Court that defts. Dunn and Hennigan ought to have and recover of and from Deft. McConnell, the sum of (damaged) appearing to have been overpaid and without valid consideration to said McConnell, and that said note should be canceled and held for naught. It is therefore ordered adjudged and by the court that the Defts. C. E. Dunn and J.E. Hennigan do have and recover from the Deft. W.D.R. McConnell the full sum of Seven Hundred and Forty-five and 76/100 dollars with 8% interest per annum from this date. And that the aforesaid note executed to said McConnell be and the same is hereby canceled and held for naught and declared back to said maker, and that said Dunn and Hennigan each be and are hereby ordered from any further responsibility. And further that they recover of and from said Deft. McConnell all costs by them in this behalf expended; Save and except such prorate thereof as 69 acres of said land will bear to the said 640 acres for all of which they may have their executors.