SETH WARD may have immigrated to Virginia from Bassingbourn, Cambridge, England. He was the immigrant ancestor of the Ward family of Henrico, later Chesterfield, Amelia, Nottoway, Lunenburg, Charlotte, Lee and other counties in Virginia and North Carolina. SETH WARD and CAPTAIN JOHN WARD of England and Henrico, Virginia were probably kinsmen, but certainly they were not sons of the notable BISHOP SETH WARD of England. He may be the grandson of SETH WARD of Abbington, Cambridgeshire, England who died in 1598 and left a will.
SETH WARD may be related, though no direct proof has yet been found, as son or brother of Ancient Planter CAPTAIN JOHN WARDE of early Virginia as described in a will found in the Prerogative Court of Canterbury, 51 Lewyn, written on February 14th, 1598 by SETH WARD of Abbington, Cambridgeshire, England, yeoman, proved June 20th 1598 by JOHN WARDE. SETH WARD named in his will his wife, ANNIS/ANNE; sons, JOHN WARDE, ENOS WARDE, and THOMAS WARDE; Daughters MARIE WARDE and ANNE JACOB; Grandchildren JOHN WARDE and SETH WARDE, sons of testator's son JOHN WARDE; Brother ROBERT WARD; Sister WILSONNE; Grandchildren ANNE WARD (daughter of JOHN WARDE), MARTHA WARD, ALICE WARD and MARIE WARD. The testator, SETH WARD, owned lands in Litlington and Stephen Norden, Cambridgeshire. He made bequests to JOHN WARDE "the sonne of my said sonne JOHN WARDE tenn pounds of lawfull English monie to be paid unto him at the age of one and twentie yeares; also I give unto SETH WARD, his brother, the somme of tenn pounds of like lawfull English monie to be paide unto him at the age of one and twentie yeares."
Captain JOHN WARDE, Ancient Planter, and SETH WARDE appeared at the same time in the same locality in Virginia, each holding lands in Henrico County and along the James River. The Ancient Planter JOHN WARDE was in Virginia by 1616. A census taken March-May 1619 enumerated twenty-six men, no women or children on "CAPTAYNE WARDES PLANTATION." Records state that CAPTAIN JOHN WARDE arrived in Virginia on the ship Sampson on 22 April 1619 and left the next month to fish as far north as Maine. Researcher Mary Ward states that a record found in The Compendium of American Genealogy that traces SETH WARD of Henrico County, VA to CAPT. JOHN WARD, however, no record of JOHN WARD has been found that specifically names SETH WARD as his son. ( Note: Seth Ward was in Henrico County, Virginia no later than February 11, 1632 when he was granted a lease for 21 years in the upper parts of Henrico County. Captain John Ward's land was located on the other side of the James River in Surry County, across the river from Jamestown and Williamsburg. Seth Ward did not qualify as an Ancient Planter as he arrived after 1616.)
Ancient Planter was a designation given as follows: " A colonist in Virginia by the year 1616 was entitled to 100 acres of land provided he paid his own passage and had dwelt in the Colony for three years when application for land was made. In accordance with a predetermined policy of the Virginia Company, no individiual assignments of land were made during the first seven years of the Colony's existence. The policy of granting patents for acreage to settlers was inagurated during the later part of the time of Sir Thomas Dale, Governor from 1611-1616. Those entitled to this land were designated as Ancient Planters." (Jamestowne Society Newsletter, April 2006, "Chronicle of Jamestowne Ancestors", by Virginia Lee Hutcheson Davis)
On May 30th 1634, the governor of Virginia issued a land patent to SEATH WARD, Planter, of Varina in the upper part, a land patent, 60 aces in the upper parts, within the Corporation of Henrico, West upon the land of DANIEL SHURLEY {Shirley} extending Easterly towards a tree known as Powhatan Tree and abutting Southerly upon Three Mile Swamp, and Nly. into the maine woods, 21 year lease expiring May 30, 1655. (Patent Book 1, Part 1, p. 148) (Cavaliers & Pioneers, Vol 1, p 19)
On July 14th, 1637, Seth's son, RICHARD WARD, received a patent for 100 acres in Varina, Henrico County, adjoining JOHN BAKER, etc. -- 50 acres due for his "own personal adventure" indicating that he was an immigrant to Virginia and an additional 50 acres by purchase (Virginia Patent Book 1, Page 440). (Cavaliers & Pioneers, Vol 1,) According to Virginia Immigrants 1623-1666, RICHARD WARD was imported into Virginia in the year 1636, by Capt. John Chelsman, Charles River County. Also in 1635 RICHARD WARD was shown to be imported into Virginia by John Cheeseman, Charles River County. (John Chelsman and John Cheeseman are more than likely one and the same man.)
The SETH WARD patent was land previously home to THOMAS SHEFFIELD and his family from 1619 to 1622. THOMAS SHEFFIELD had received a royal land grant of 2,300 acres from the Crown of England; he and his family were tragically killed in an Indian Massacre on February 22, 1622. From 1622 to 1634 the land remained uninhabited until the Indians and settlers reached an agreement and it was safe for the settlers to return to the area. SETH WARD acquired the Sheffield property in 1634. RICHARD GREGORY of Dinwiddie bought about 1,000 acres from another SETH WARD sometime between 1797 - 1805 and built the house that sits on the property today. Other owners of the land were MR. GREGORY's son and later his granddaughter LAVINA and her husband, MAJOR AUGUSTUS DREWRY; during this time the Confederates built a fort there known as Fort Darling at Drewry's Bluff. After the Civil War Drewry traded the farm to CAPTAIN JAMES B. JONES, a confederate officer who had served at Fort Darling. In 1887 the entire property was sold to JAMES BELLWOOD of Canada, and an agriculturist. With his three sons JAMES BELLWOOD turned the 2,400 acres into a model farm. In June 1941 the U. S. Army bought the land from the BELLWOOD sons who negotiated for the Army to take care of the elk that their father had placed on the land. The old home is used as an Officer's Club today. The property is the present site of the DEFENSE SUPPLY CENTER RICHMOND.
SETH WARD of Varina married KATHERINE SMITH and had son, RICHARD WARD, who was a Justice of Henrico County in 1666. His son, RICHARD WARD, married ELIZABETH _____ and died in 1682 having issue: (1) a son, RICHARD WARD, who married MARTHA BRANCH, ELIZABETH BLACKMAN, & MRS. MARY JONES and had at least one son RICHARD WARD who removed to Carteret County, NC in or before 1746; (2) a son, EDWARD WARD, who married a daughter of GILBERT ELAM SR.; (3) daughter, ELIZABETH WARD; and (4) possibly a son, JOHN WARD, who married HANNAH ____.
"Virginia Gleanings in England" states that on Feburary 1, 1650 SETH WARD sold acreage to MORGAN PIERCE (Henrico County records, Volume 1677-92, page 239) that SETH WARD held as a patent for 350 acres of land in the vicinity of Varina, Henrico County, 150 acres by a former patent and 50 acres by purchase from JOHN BAKER and 150 acres for transportation of three persons (Virginia Patent Book 1, page 946).
On 22 November 1643 SETH WARD patented 350 acres in the vicinity of Varina, Henrico County of which 1250 acres by a former patent and 50 acres by purchase from JOHN BAKER and 150 acres for transporting of three persons. (Virginia Patent Book No. 1, page 946). SETH WARD sold this land to MORGAN PIERCE on February 1, 1650 (Henrico County Records, Volume 1677-1692, p 239). The patent in Henrico County as recorded in Virginia Patents 1 on page 946, Library of Virginia Digital Collection, Land Office Patents and Grants. It reads as follows: SETH WARD his Pattent for 350 acres of Land Examd, To all & C. Whereas &c. Now know yee that I the said. Sr: WILLIAM BERKELEY Knt. doe with the advice and Consent of the Councell of State accordingly Give grant and Confirme unto SETH WARD three hundred & fifty acres of Land in the County of Henrico bounded (vizt) North north west up by ye side of the two Myle Creek South South west over against Varina, East South East upon the three myle Swamp takeing in the said Swamp North north east Extending in breadeth towards the foure Mile Creeke, and bounded at the End with a runing brooke (Called roundabout) the said three hundred and fifty acres of Land being due unto the said SETH WARD as followeth (vizt) one hundred & Fifty acres by Virtue of a former Pattent bearing date ye 13th of Feby 1635 and fifty acres by purchase from JNO. BAKER of a pattent bearing date the last of May 1636 and one hundred and fifty acres more by and for the transportacon of three persons into the Collony whose names are in the records mentioned under this pattent, To Have & to Hold &c. To be held &c. yielding and paying unto our said Soveraigne Lord the King his heires & successors for every fifty acres of Land herein by these presents Granted and Given yearely at the feast of St. Michael the Arch-Angell the fee rent of one shilling to his Majesties use which payment is to be made for one hundred and fifty acres seaven yeares after the date of ye 13th of ffebry 1637 and for fifty acres seven yeares after the date of the last of May 1636 and for the remainder seven yeares after the date hereof and not before &c. dated 22th of (November) 1643
JNO. WILKESON ROBT. FLEETE JNO. MILLER
On July 14, 1637 RICHARD WARD patented 100 acres in Varina, Henrico County, adjoining JOHN BAKER; 50 acres for "his own personal adventure" and 50 acres by purchase (Virginia Patent Book No. 1, page 440). SETH WARD's land patented in 1643 included land purchased from JOHN BAKER. According to "Virginia Gleanings in Virginia" this RICHARD WARD has always been deemed to be a son of SETH WARD. RICHARD WARD moved to the southside of the James River and on March 9, 1665 patented 1,337 acres on the river and Falling Creek (Virginia Patent Book 5, page 164). He served as a magistrate in Henrico County in 1666 and died in 1682 leaving four children: eldest son, SETH WARD; RICHARD WARD, second son; EDWARD WARD, youngest son; and ELIZABETH WARD, daughter.
On 1 November 1640 SETH WARD sold 200 acres purchased of WILLIAM WORSHAM 200 acres in Henrico County. [Wm. Worsham :& George Worsham, 400 acres, Henrico County, 15 Feb 1652, p 23. 200 acres part hereof lying at the old Towne at Appomattox River siding SW by the Old Towne Creek upon John Coogney's land extending NE upon Mrs. DOROTHY CLERK (sic Clarke), widow; and 200 acres being part of the old Towne aforesaid, bounded from the S by W corner of said Worshams first 200 acres upon the head of the said land N by E, thence into the woods towards Swifts Creek &c 200 acres being part of a patent granted unto William Clarke deceased, 6 May 1638, and by said Clarke sold unto Seth Ward from whom it was purchased by Willliam Worsham, 2 November 1640; and 200 acres for transport of 4 persons: Henry White, Jo. Plummer, Susan Chiles, Sarah Chiles; Oliver Green, land due for.] Source: Cavaliers & Pioneers, p 237-238. This patent was mentioned as follows in a patent to JOHN WILSON, 100 acres, Henrico Co., N side of Appomattox, 24 Sep 1667 (Patent Book 6, p 54) beg. at the river side @@ by N. Nly along an old known fence being line parting his & Orphants of George & Will Wworsham &c. adj. his own land &c. Due for trans of 7 persons dated 6 May 1638 & the other 25 Sep 1663. Sd. 100 acres being part of a dvdt. purchased by WM. CLARKE containin 1100 acs. granted him by Sir John Havey late Govt. 6 May 1638; sold to LEONARD LANGTON 29 Oct 1638 who sold to SEATH WARD 3 Jan 1639 as by record of said deed at James City 24 Sept 1640 & assighnment endorsed may appear & for better confirmation the Widow DOROTHY CLARKE did afterwards surrender same to SEATH WARD at a court held at Varina 25 Mar 1640, who at a Ct. held at Varina 9 Nov 1640 assigned to Wm. Worsham 3200 acs. part oe 300 acs. lying at the Old Towne Cr. ^ by dec dated 2 Nov 1640 & endorced & C. Said WARD for good consideration assigned the other 100 acres to MICHAEL MASTERS 28 Oct 1642 at a Court held at Varina at which Court said Masters surrended up said 100 acres to HENRY ROWEN who in like manner at the same Court surrendered same to PETER FEEPOND who at the same Court surrended to said WILSON.
On 22 November 1643, SETH WARD, recorded 350 acres, Henrico County, page 946, NNW up the Two Mile Creek, SSW over against Varina, ESE upon Three Mile Swamp, extending towards Four Mile Creek & bounded at the end with a running brook called a roundabout. 150 acres by former patent; 50 acres by purchase from JNO. BAKER & 150 acres for transport of 3 persons: JNO WILKERSON, ROBERT FLEETE, JNO. MILLER. [Source: Cavaliers & Pioneers 151-152]
In 1682 died in 1682 leaving four children: eldest son, SETH WARD; RICHARD WARD, second son; EDWARD WARD, youngest son; and ELIZABETH WARD, daughter.
In 1687 Henrico County Records, page 287, state "Upon ye petition of SETH WARD, These may certify that there is due unto him three hundred fifty acres of Land for ye importation of seven persons (whose names are underwritten) into this Colony: Proof thereof being brought into Court made according to Law viz: EDWARD WISE, THOMAS STANNING, ANNE HEWITT, WILL BLAST, SIMON LIGON, MARY SPENCER, and ELIZABETH TURNER.
On 22 November 1643 SETH WARD received a land patent , 350 acres, Henrico County, NNW up the Two Mile Creek, SSW over against Varine, ESE upon Three Myle Swamp, exting towards Four Myle Creek & bounded at the end with a running brook called roundabout; 150 acres by former patent, 50 acres by purchase from JOHN BAKER, and 150 acres for transport of 3 persons: JOHN WILKESON, ROBERT FLEETE, and JOHN MILLER. (Patent Book 1, Part II, p 946 & Cavaliers & Pioneers, Vol 1, pp 151-152)
[NOTE: One source states that one of these imported individuals by Seth Ward prior to 1643 was SIMON LYGON, who may have been the brother of THOMAS LYGON. SIMON LIGON was indentured to SETH WARD for his importation and worked for Seth’s son, RICHARD WARD as Richard’s will mentioned him. Robert Thompson imported a second Simon Lygon in 1688. This researcher has found no documents to date to prove that Seth Ward imported Simon Ligon into Virginia as of 10/29/03.]
SETH WARD purchased additional land of one WILLIAM CLARKE which he sold to WILLIAM WORSNAM on 2 November 1640, proven by a land patent (Patent Book 3, p 23) dated 5 July 1653 belonging to WILLIAM WORSNAM (WORSHAM) & GEORGE WORSNAM (WORSHAM) who filed a patent for 400 acres, Henrico County, Patent Book 3, page 23; 200 acres being part hereof lying at the old Towne at Appamattox River bounding E upon said River, siding SW by the Old Towne Creek upon John Coogney's land, extendinging NE upon land of Mrs. DOROTHY CLERK, widow; 200 acres being part of the old Towne aforesaid, bounded from the S by W, corner of said WORSNAM's first 200 acres, upon the head of the said land N by E, thence into the woods towards Swifts Creek &c.; 200 acres being part of a patent granted WILLIAM CLARKE, dec'd, 6 May 1638, & by said CLARKE sould unto SETH WARD
from whom it was purchased by WILLIAM WORSNAM on 2 November 1640; & 200 acres for transport of 4 person: Henry White, Jo. Plummer, Susan Chiles, Sarah Chiles,; Oliver Green, land due for. (Cavaliers & Pioneers, Vol 1, p 239) The transaction is further proven by JOHN WILSON's patent dated 6 June 1666 (Patent Book 5, page 504) for 100 acres, Henrico Co., N side of Appomattox River, part of 100 acres purcahsed of WM. CLARKE which was granted by patent6 May 1638 & by him sould to LEONARD LAUGHTON 29 Oct 1638, who sould to SETH WARD on 3 January 1639 as by record of said deed at James City 24 September 1640 & assignments endorsed may appeare; & for better confirmation the Widdow DORATHY CLARKE surrendered the land to SEATH WARAD at a Court held at Varina 9 Novembe 1640 surrendered to WM. WORSNAM 200 acres being part of 300 acres at the Ould Towne Creek as by the records of that Court & by a deed of sayle thereof dated 2 Nov. 1640 & assignment theron doth appeare; said SEATH WARD for good consideration, assigned the other 100 acres to MICHAELL MASTERS at a Court held at Variana 28 Oct 1642 & said Masters at the same Court surrendered the 100 acres to HENRY ROWEN who at the same Ct. in like manner assigned same to PETER FREEPOND who at the same Ct. assigned said 100 acres to said WILSON; beginning at ther iver side, running W by N 1/3 Nly, along an old knowne fence being the line parting said WILSON & the Orphans of GEORGE & WM. WORSHAM &c. (Cavaliers & Pioneers Vol 1, p 556) (Cavaliers & Pioneers, Vol 2, p 37 - Patent Book 6, p 135, patent of George Worshan daed 29 April 1668)
In 1650 Seth Ward transferred 350 acres to MORGAN PIERCE and they repatented it to FRANCIS PIERCE and WILLIAM PIERCE in 1667. (Source unknown, further proof needed)
On 24 September 1667, FRANCIS PERCE & WILLIAM PERCE patented 350 acres, Henrico Couny, N side of James River, Patent Book 6, page 53; NNW on 2 Mile Creek, SSW against Varina, ESE upon 3 Mile Creek swamp, taking in the swamp, NNE towards 4 Mile Creek & bounded with a running brooke called the Rowndaboute. Granted to SEATH WARD viz: 150 acres, 13 Sept. 1635; 50 acres purchased from JOHN BAKER, last of May 1636, & 150 acres 17 Nov. 1643 for transport of 3 persons: Jonathan Blanchard, Elizabeth Gibbin, & Henry Chaddocke. (Cavaliers & Pioneers, Vol 2, p 15)
On 29 Septemer 1668 JOHN BROWNE patented 110 acres, Henrico County, N side of James River, Patent Book 6, page 189, adjacent SEATH WARD, Radford's line &c. for transport of 3 persons: Elenor Willis, Jone Davis, Phyllis ___. (Cavaliers & Pioneers, Vol 2, p 49)
The following Colonial Survey report indicates that WILLIAM BYRD & SETH WARD were in close proximity to one another: WILLIAM BYRD: Patent - mos XBHSG Date: 20 Apr 1686 ref [Patent Book 7:549] to WILLIAM BYRD, 1820 acres Ref: 1820 acres Henrico/Falling Creek Grindons Run (Henry Sherman, SETH WARD loc 10215 -17298 F127 L0 P255 - Point A) Peter Lees Corner White oak in Grindon's Run HYD line Northeast 63 poles on Lees head line - Point B) Three Corner trees Corner of Henry Sherman line NNE; 202 poles on his headline - Point C) Line of Edward Deally line Northwest 246 poles - Point D) Corner pine line SWxS; 688 poles crossing Grindon's Run & main branch of Falling Creek - Point E) Corner pine line SxE; 186 poles - Point F) Corner pine line Southheast 256 poles - Point G) Corner pine nigh the line of SETH WARD line ExN; 344 poles on his line - Point H) Corner ash on main River HYD at mouth of Spring Run line NxE. 50pE; 56 poles along river - Point I) Mouth of Falling Creek HYD survey line ; up Creek with meanders 300 acres purchd of William Giles 29 March 1683 residue King's land" Sta. 6: poles from 44 to 344 - Quality of survey: Well located. [COLONIAL LAND SURVEY REPORTS] In Patent Book 7, page 549, this deed is recorded and the statement is made "crossing the maine branch of Falling Creek, nigh SETH WARD, to mouth of the Spring Run. (Cavaliers & Pioneers, Vol 2, p 305)
About 1 August 1682 SETH WARD'S son, RICHARD WARD, died leaving four children: eldest son, SETH WARD; RICHARD WARD, second son; EDWARD WARD, youngest son; and ELIZABETH WARD, daughter; as proven by Richard Ward's will.
Excerpts taken from: VIRGINIA GENEALOGIES 1600's - 1800's, Family Tree Makers Family Archives, CD 186: "SETH WARD (the first of the name in Virginia) was in Henrico County as early as 1634 and was a planter. Seth's son, RICHARD WARD, was a magistrate in 1666, and in the list of Heads of Families 1679, appears as 'Mr. RICHD WARD, SEN.." He died in 1682 disposing, by will of a substantial estate; probably a thousand acres of land, three servants (one of whom was an indentured servant and one an Indian." (p 762) . . . SETH WARD is the earliest ancestor to whom the WARD family of Henrico County has been traced; branches of which family lived at a later date in Amelia, Nottoway, Chesterfield, Prince Edward, Charlotte and Lunenburg Counties, Virginia, and in North Carolina. The destruction of the Henrico County Records prior to 1677 and the fragmentary condition of this county's records since that date creates a problem in genealogy quite difficult of solution; but with a view to establishing certain heretofore circumstantially evident, though unproved, connections of Wards of post revolutionary date, with the original Wards of Henrico, an extensive search has been made in the remaining records in Henrico, the records of Chesterfield, Lunenburg, Cumberland, Amelia, Charlotte, and Nottoway, and the land patents in Richmond, in order to obtain whatever data these records might afford by wal of wills, deeds, and court orders. (The research of the Ward family history was made at the request of Prof. E. F. Humphrey of Trinity College, Hartford, Conn. Seth Ward was not the immigrant ancestor of the family. For a note on Varina and its location, see Tyler's Cradle of the Republic, page 227.) . . . The earliest recorded mention of SETH WARD is as follows: By order of Court 11 Feby 1632 that all such planters or persons whatsoever who shall have no land due unto them by adventure or otherwise should have certain quantity granted unto them by lease for 21 years, therefore under this provision, to SEATH WARD of VARINA, in the upper parts, planter, three score acres of land in the upper parts in corporation of Henrico; adjoining DANIEL SHERLEY, Powhatan's Three, Three mile swamp, dated 30 May 1634; Register of the Land Office, Patent Book I, p. 148. . . . On November (9br) 12th, 1643, a patent for 150 acres of land was issued to SETH WARD as follows: SETH WARD, 350 acres, Henrico Co., bounded NNW by side of twoe myle creek: SSW 'over against Varina': ESE upon three myle swamp taking in said swamp extending in breadth towards the foure mile creek bounded at the end by a running brook called the roundabout; due as followest 150 acres by virtue of a former patent dated 13 Feb 1635 and 50 acres by purchase from JOHN BAKER of a patent dated last of May 1635 & 150 acres more by and for transportation of 3 persons viz: JNO. WILKERSON, FLEETE, JNO. MILLER, into the colony. Dated 9ber 12th, 1643. (Register of the Land Office, Patent Book I, p.946) (17 July 1637, John Baker, patent 200 acres, Henrico Co. near Varinas, adjoining land of Seth Ward & lands now in possession of John Baker & Wm. Davis, extending towards Cpt. Davis's bottoms. VA. Magazine VI, p 405). . . . The only other reference to SETH WARD that has been found is of a 'bill of sale of the aforementioned land (i.e. 150 acres between Four Mile Creek & Two Mile Creek, patent 13 Feb 1635 by West, as governor, and renewed by Berkeley, as governor, on Nov 17, 1643, to SETH WARD, with addition of 50 acres purchased of JOHN BARBAR, dated May 1, 1636, and 150 acres more added thereto) 350 acres from SEATH [Seth] WARD to MORGAN PIERCE, dated February 1, 1650. [On Mar. 23, 1633, JOHN WARD, of Varinas, planter, lease for 25 acres adjoining his own land at plantation of Varina. "VA. Magazine II, p. 312.) [Henrico Records, Vol. 1677-92, p. 239). . . . The subsequent history of SETH WARD is not known: it is not known whom he married, nor is the date of his death known other than that it took place between 1650 (the date of his last patent, as above) and 1677 when the records, as at present preserved in Henrico, begin. . . . SETH WARD of Henrico County was the father of RICHARD WARD. [Virginia Magazine, p. 312. It is not improbable that SETH WARD was the father of other children. SETH HATCHER, among the sons of EDWARD HATCHER (1633-1711) of Henrico may have come from Seth Ward, and hence Edward Hatcher's wife, MARY, may have been a daughter of Ward."
Showing posts with label Seth Ward. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Seth Ward. Show all posts
Monday, July 25, 2011
RICHARD WARD (1692-1761) OF HENRICO & LUNENBURG COUNTIES IN VIRGINIA
RICHARD WARD as proven by Henrico Court Records, was born 29 October 1692 at Sheffield Plantation in Henrico Co., VA as the third of four sons of SETH and ANN HATCHER WARD. He was deceased by 23 November 1761 at Lunenburg County, Virginia. His brothers were: SETH WARD, married MARTHA WORSHAM; JOSEPH WARD, married SARAH STEWART; and BENJAMIN WARD, married ANNE ANDERSON. After his father's death, his mother married secondly WILLIAM BLACKMAN.
About 1716 RICHARD WARD married firstly, FRANCES WORSHAM, and they had two known children, BENJAMIN born 1717 & TAHPANES (born 1729) who married PHILIP WEBBER. Sometime between 1729 and 1759 FRANCES WORSHAM WARD died. In 1759 Richard married secondly MARY JOHNS (daughter of THOMAS RICE JOHNS and CATHERINE AUSTIN) and had a son, RICHARD WARD Jr. born c1760, & daughter CATHERINE WARD born 1761. Mary disappeared from the records shortly after Richard Ward's death.
RICHARD WARD led an interesting and colorful life. He lived at various times in Brunswick County, Cumberland County, Henrico, and Lunenburg in Virginia and briefly in Granville Co., NC. He was frequently involved in legal disputes demonstrated through court records. He had 4 known children, 19 grand-children, & 62 great-grandchildren.
In 1708 The Secret Diary of William Byrd of Westover 1709-1712," edited by Wright and Tinling, I take note of the entry for 18 Dec 1710: ". . . About 12 o'clock came DICK WARD from above to settle accounts with me. He did not tell me that some part of the dam was gone, but Ralph G-p-l-n did tell me there was three feet of it gone . . . "
Further proof is needed for the following allegations as more than one Richard Ward lived in Henrico at the time. A Richard Ward was in Henrico County court several times 1714 to 1724 accused of fighting in court, theft, assault & battery, trespass, not paying his bills, & swearing. Below are some of these dubious achievements. In August 1714 authorities arrested THOMAS MATTHEWS, EDWARD MATTHEWS, & RICHARD WARD for fighting in the court. In September 1720 RICHARD WARD trespassed on the land of his brother SETH WARD and assaulted him. Richard was arrested but when he did not appear in court, the Court imposed on him a £50 judgement to be voided if RICHARD showed at the next court. We presume THOMAS TURPIN, RICHARD'S surety, got him to court. The next month, JOHN SOANE accused RICHARD WARD of trespass, and in February 1720/1 GEORGE RONALD brought a complaint against him. WILLIAM RANDOLPH sued Richard for to collect money owed to him in court in August 1721. RICHARD was guilty of some lesser offenses. In June 1722 a grand jury indicted him for swearing and ordered him to pay the churchwardens 5 shillings or 50 pounds of tobacco. His brother SETH was his security. Ironically court records identify RICHARD WARD as an Under Deputy Sheriff in January 1722/3 and during the next two years he brought minor complaints against JOHN PETER BONDURANT and JOHN BURTON. In June 1724 RICHARD DENNIS complained to a Henrico County justice that RICHARD stole eight or nine bushels of Indian corn. They arrested RICHARD but it seems he escaped prosecution on a technicality. The court concluded 'the proceedings upon said complaint are not legal, the same is dismissed and each party is ordered to pay his own costs.' RICHARD's last appearance in Henrico County court was in October 1724 for assaulting and beating JOHN BURTON. A jury awarded BURTON 17 shillings and court costs. He evidently took his frustration elsewhere as THOMAS FRANKLIN accused RICHARD WARD of assault and battery in Amelia County in 1736." In 1723 Richard Ward obtained by "Distrainte" from Thomas Pleasants one feather bed, one sheet, and one blanket. (Henrico Co., VA Monthly Meeting, Pleasants)
LAND PATENTS GRANTED TO RICHARD WARD:
1733, March 3: Goochland (later Cumberland) County, 450 acres N side of Appomattox River beginning at the mouth of Angola Creek [Register of Land Office, Richmond, Patent Book 15, p. 180].
1740, August 28: Prince Edward County, 400 acres on the Appomattox River (Early Settlers of Prince Edward County}
1742, January 12: Brunswick County, 400 acres, S side Ward's fork. [Note: in present Charlotte County.]
1742, July 30: Goochland County, 200 acres south side James River on Swift Creek, in a Meadow; adjacent Thomas Watkins, Michael Garthwright & John Maxey; Whereas by Patent 11 April 1732 granted Nathaniel Maxey 11 April 1732 {PB 14, p 394) and whereas the said Nathaniel Maxey hath failed to make Cultivation & Improvement and Richard Ward hath made Humble Suit and obtained a Grant for the same. {Included in Thomas Green's PB 27, p 132); [Patent Book 20, p. 411]
1742/43, February 12: Brunswick County, 304 acres on north side Ward Fork down said creek, adjoining MARTIN. [Patent Book 20, 254] [Note this land is in present Charlotte County.]
1742/43, February 12: RICHARD WARD, Brunswick County, 320 acres, South side of Ward's Fork, adj. Martin, 2 pounds, Patent Book 21, page 196.
1746/47, January 12: Brunswick County, 404 acres on South side of Wards fork; 2 pounds; `1Patent Book 28, page 68.
1746, March 29: Goochland County Deed Book 3:172: Indenture between WILLIAM KANNON, carpenter of Goochland & RICHARD WARD of same, L55, 492 acres, patented to JOHN MARTAN by patent 20 Aug 1741 and by MARTIN sold to said WILLIAM CANNON & bounded by the creek. Signed William Cannon. Witnessed by JOHN COX, FREDRICK COX, JOHN JONES. April 3, 1746 Court recorded.
1746, August 28: Amelia County VA (later Prince Edward County) 400 acres South side Appomattox River adjoining Osborne's line, beginning at Osborne's corner white oak on the river; formerly granted to JOHN DAWSON, since deceased, 30 July 1738, and Henry Dawson, son & heir of said John Dawson, failing to seat, same is now granted to RICHARD WARD having made humble Suit and hath obtained a Grant for the same. (Probably the same 400 acres that RICHARD WARD gifted to his daughter, TAHPANES WARD, on 5 September 1754 in Prince Edward County, VA.) Patent Book 25:217
1748, September 20: Amelia County (later Prince Edward Co.) RICHARD WARD, 500 acres, South side of Little Saylor's Creek, part of a patent for 3146 acres formerly granted JOHN CRAWFORD by patent 5 June 1736 and forfeited for want of seating; upon the Petition of the sd Richard Ward to our General Court the said Land. Patent Book 28, p. 376]
1748, September 28 Lunenburg County, VA Deed Book 4, p321.
I, REECE PREECE, of Lunenburg, for 50 pounds sell to RICHARD WARD of Goochland County, one plantation & parcel of land conveyed from JOHN SMITH to PREECE by Lunenburg deed of April 1, 1748, containing 337 acres in Lunenburg in Wards Fork and bounded by trees. signed Sep 28, 1748. REES PREES. Witness MATHEW TALBOT, JOHN GWIN, PERRIN ALDAY. Recorded October 5, 1756 after PERRIN AULDAY, one of the witnesses gave oath, and CATHRINE, wife of said REES, relinquished her right of dower and on 6 October 1756 the deed was further proved by the oath of Matthew Talbot, Gentleman. [Note: in present Charlotte County]
1748, November 23, Lunenburg County Deed Book 1, p 386: JOSEPH WARD of Amelia County for 50 pounds to RICHARD WARD of Goochland County, 50 pounds, a plantation and 200 acres on the north side of Stanton River, signed 23 November 1748, JOSEPH WARD. Witnesses, PERRIN ALLDAY, JOHN GWIN, JOHN AUSTIN. Recorded February 1748.
1749, page 93, William Caldwell's List of Tithes from Falling River to Little Roanoke River, Lunenburg County, Virginia listed RICHARD WARD and his overseer, PERRIN ALDAY. (Source: Sunlight on the Southside) [Note: Falling River is in present Campbell County, formerly Lunenburg County.]
1749, June 5, Lunenburg County Road Orders, O.S. page 156: Ordered that a road be laid off & clear'd the best and most convenient way from Youngs Mill Path to Little Roanoke Bridge at Coles Road and SAMUEL DUVAL is appointed Surveyor thereof. And it is ordered that the said Duval with all the Male Labouring Tithable Persons Convenient thereto, to wit, SAMUEL JOHNSON, WILLIAM JOHNSON, STEPHEN COLLINS, and his son, JOHN PRATT, CLEMENT READS Tithable, THOMAS VERNON, JOHN AUSTIN, JOHN ADKINS, JOHN AUSTIN JUR. RICHARD WARDS - TITHABLES, and all others Convenient therefore forthwith Clear and keep the same in Repair according to law.
1750, page 150, Richard Ward was listed in the Tithables of Lunenburg County, Virginia on the list of Abraham Martin. (Source: Sunlight on the Southside)
1751, September 19: Amelia County, RICHARD WARD of Cumberland County to JAMES MITCHELL of Raleigh Parish, Amelia County, 1000 pounds currency, 500 acres in AMELIA COUNTY on South side of Little Sailor Creek. (Amelia County Deed Book 4, page 148). [Note this property, SaIlors Creek, appears to be in present Prince Edward County probably SW of Sailor's Creek Battlefield Historical State Park near property deeded to Richard Ward's daughter, Tahpenes Ward, in 1754 and which was left by will to his son, Richard Ward, Jr., in 1762).
1752, RICHARD WARD, 3 Tithables, Lunenburg County, VA, William Caldwell's List ; page 188; JAMES WILSON was listed with Richard Ward. (source: Sunlight on the Southside)
1754, September 5: Prince Edward County, RICHARD WARD of Cumberland County deeded to his daughter TAHPENES WARD of Cumberland County, deed of gift, 400 acres in Prince Edward County, on Appomattox River, adjoining JOSEPH WARD, JOHN JOHNSON, DAVID GREENHILL, formerly HENRY DAWSON. Witness: BENJAMIN WARD. (Prince Edward Records, Deed Book I, page 15) (Note: TAHPANES WARD married PHILLIP WEBBER in 1751. This would be the same 400 acres that Richard Ward acquired 28 August 1746 in Prince Edward County, prior to the formation of that county from Amelia County in 1753 as previously noted in 1746, August 28: Amelia County (later Prince Edward), 400 acres S side Appomattox River adjoining Osborne's line, beginning at Osborne's corner white oak on the river; formerly granted to JOHN DAWSON, since deceased, 30 July 1738, and Henry Dawson, son & heir of said John Dawson, failing to seat, same is now granted to RICHARD WARD. , Patent Book 25, p. 217] [Note: The above described land is probably situated north of Hwgs 460 & 370 and north of Rice, east of Farmville, according to a present day topographical mouth of Prince Edward County.]
1754, September 5: Lunenburg County, RICHARD WARD of Southam Parish, Cumberland County, for L500 currency, conveyed to BENJAMIN WARD of Granville County, NC, 13 Negroes, all stock of horses, cattle, hogs, household furniture belonging to my plantation in Lunenburg County. (Lunenburg Records Deed Book 4, page 288; duplicate record Lunenburg Deed Book 5, page 197.)
1755, June 25: Lunenburg County, VA. RICHARD WARD witnessed the will of THOMAS WILLIAMSON. Will Book 2, page 154, recorded 7 October 1755.
1755, June 30: Lunenburg County, RICHARD WARD of Cumberland Co., VA conveyed to BENJAMIN WARD of Granville Co., NC, for 1500 pounds currency, all said RICHARD WARD' s lands in Lunenburg Co., on Ward's Ford, branch of Little Roanoke, & all buildings & appurtenances. Signed RICHARD WARD. Witnesses, JOHN COX, MICAJAH SMITHSON, JAMES CARY JR. Recorded 1 July 1755. (Lunenburg Deed Book 4, page 150)
1755, June 30: Lunenburg County, RICHARD WARD, late of Cumberland Co., VA but at present of Granville Co., NC, Planter, granted his power of attorney to his trusty friend, BENJAMIN WARD, late of Granville Co., NC, but now of Lunenburg Co., VA to demand, sue for, recover, receive of all persons indebted to me in Virginia and to deliver up in execution all persons whom I have become special for in any suit or action now pending and undetermined in any court of Virginia. (Lunenburg Deed Book 4, page 151). (NOTE: Benjamin Ward mentioned herein may be Richard's nephew. The Census Index of Colonial America indicates that in 1755 and 1769 a Benjamin Ward was enumerated in Granville Co., NC.]
On 18 April 1758 BENJAMIN & MARTHA WARD of Granville County conveyed to HENRY WARD of Amelia County for 550 pounds all his lands in Lunenburg deeded him on June 30, 1755 by RICHARD WARD. In his will dated 14 April 1765 HENRY WARD willed this land at Ward's Fork, half to his own son BENJAMIN WARD and half to another son HENRY WARD, JR.] [ Ward's Fork Mill can be presently found on a topographical map in Charlotte County, VA, near Roanoke Creek Dam No. 6A; off Highway 47; north west of Cullen, south east of Vincent Corner, northwest of Charlotte Court House. This land is located in close proximity to the border of Prince Edward & Charlotte Counties.]
1755, July 21: Lunenburg County, Trial of RICHARD WARD for a felony (nature not given); not guilty and instantly discharged. NATHANIEL BASSETT came into court and made oath that he believed himself in danger of his life from RICHARD WARD and said WARD is bound over to keep the peace, etc, his bondsmen being JAMES CARY, JR., BEN HARRIS, JEREMIAH HATCHER & BENJAMIN WARD. (Lunenburg Order Book 1754-55, pages not numbered.)
1755, November 6: Lunenburg County Road Orders, page 44: Ordered that the following Persons be added to the Road whereof SAMUEL JOHNSON is surveyor to assist the said Johnson in Clearing & keeping the same repaired, to wit, JOHN PLEASANTS & RICHARD WARDS male Labouring Tithables, JAMES NELSON, GEORGE HARRIS & JOHN BUTLER
1756, July 7, Lunenburg County Virginia Deed Book 1757-1761, Deed Book 5, page 197: "I RICHARD WARD of the Parish of Southam in the County of Cumberland for 500 pounds to me in hand paid by BENJAMIN WARD of Granville County, NC, have sold him 13 Negroes: WILL, LUCY, TOM, AGGA, BILLY, DAVIE, JENNY, JACK, BESS, GIDDY, ABSALOM, PETER & HANNAH. Also all my stock of horses, cattle, hogs & household furniture belonging to my Lunenburg plantation. Signed September 5, 1754: RICHARD WARD. Witnessed: CHARLES CUPPLES, JOHN FORD, ABRAHAM BAKER. The bill of sale was recorded July 7, 1756.
1758, April 18; Lunenburg County Deed Book 5, page 217.
From BENJAMIN WARD and MARTHA, his wife, of Granville County, North Carolina to HENRY WARD of Amelia County for 550 pounds, all his lands in Lunenburg County, being on Wards Fork, a branch of Little Roanoke [Roanoke River] and being all the land that the said BENJAMIN WARD had of RICHARD WARD which was deeded to him on June 30, 1755. Signed BENJAMIN WARD. Witnesses, JOHN COX JR., EDWARD HOGANS (HOGINS), JOHN POTTER. Recorded 2 May 1758.
[NOTE: This Benjamin Ward is probably the nephew of said Richard Ward; Martha is Martha Lyle. Ward's Fork Mill can be presently found on a topographical map in Charlotte County, VA, near Roanoke Creek Dam No. 6A; off Highway 47; north west of Cullen, south east of Vincent Corner, northwest of Charlotte Court House. This land is located in close proximity to the border of Prince Edward & Charlotte Counties.]
1758, September 28: Lunenburg County, REECE PREECE of Lunenburg County for L50 currency conveys to RICHARD WARD of Goochland, 337 acres on Wards Fork, Lunenburg County.
[Ward's Fork Mill can be presently found on a topographical map in Charlotte County, VA, near Roanoke Creek Dam No. 6A; off Highway 47; north west of Cullen, south east of Vincent Corner, northwest of Charlotte Court House.]
1760, 3 March: Lunenburg County Deeds, page 669, BENJAMIN WARD recorded 1,316 acres on both sides of Little Horsepen Creek adjacent to WILLIAM and MAYS, for 6 pounds 15 shillings.
[Little Horsepen Creek can be presently located on a topographical map near Roanoke Creek Dam No. 49A; it is north of Formosa, north east of Rancolph, and south seast from Sax, and west off Highway 47; about 15.5 miles south of Wards Fork Mill.)
1761, October 13: Lunenburg County, JAMES CALDWELL, of Lunenburg County, to RICHARD WARD of Lunenburg County for 60 pounds currency, 160 1/2 acres on branches of Sandy Creek. (Lunenburg Deed Book 7, page 157). [Sandy Creek can be presently located on a topographical map in Charlotte County, VA south of Highway 40 between Phenix (to the west) and Womachs (to the east) and southwest from Wards Fork Mill, a distance of approximately five miles or so.]
1762, February 2: Lunenburg County, VA Will Book 1:341 (He had died prior to 23 Nov 1761)
WILL OF RICHARD WARD of Cornwall Parish, Lunenburg County, dated November 17, 1759, probated February 2, 1762, devised: To my son BENJAMIN WARD, 120 acres in Cumberland Parish (or county) adjoining JAMES BROWN, JONAS RENULS, and VALENTINE COLLEY; [NOTE: Cumberland Parish became Bedford County, 1753; (more likely it is in Cumberland County where Richard owned other property] To daughter TAHPENAHS WARD, 1 shilling; To wife MARY WARD is loaned 6 Negroes (BOWSER, HARRY, MODESTY, DICK, ANNIS & MOLL) during her life and is given a feather beds and furniture, riding horse, side saddle, etc, also 350 acres in Lunenburg County between WILLIAM FUQUA and LENNARD WARD to her and her heirs lawfully begotten; To child [sic, Richard Ward] wife [sic, Mary Johns Ward) is now with, 150 acres in Chesterfield County (between the river adjoining ELIZA GAY and SETH WARD, between the road and the river and also 101 acres in Cumberland County between Angolea Creek and Appomattox River and also the land I now enjoy in Lunenburg County and all the Negroes and everything I am possessed within Cumberland County and also in Lunenburg County and 6 Negroes I lent my wife (sic, BOWSER, HARRY, MODESTY, DICK, ANNIS, & MOLL).
Executors: friend, SEATH WARD & PERRIN ALDAY.
Witnesses: ABRAHAM MARTIN, NEAL FRANK, JOSHUA WHARTON.
(sic, Mary Johns was a niece of Perrin Alday, who was married to her mother's sister. According to a topographical map of Virginia, the property left to child, Richard Ward, as above described is located presently in Cumberland County, between Angola Creek and the Appomattox River, north east of Farmville. The land presently is not far from the Amelia County & Prince Edward County lines. Cumberland County lies on the north side of the Appomattox River & Prince Edward County lies on the south side. Present Charlotte is about 30 miles south.)
February 2nd Court 1762 the will of RICHARD WARD was exhibited in court by SETH WARD & PERRIN AULDAY, the executors and was proved by the oaths of the witnesses and ordered to be recorded. And said SETH WARD relinquished, whereupon the motion of PERRIN AULDAY, the other executor, certificate is granted unto him for obtaining a probate of said will, he giving security, whereupon, he together with ALEXANDER JOYCE, THOMAS JOYCE, JOHN PETTUS, DUDLEY BARKSDALE, FRANCIS COOK, WILLIAM COOK, and JOHN RICE, his securities entered into their bond for said AULDAY's due execution of said will.
1762, May 4: Lunenburg Co., VA Will Book 2, page 131, RICHARD WARD:
Pursuant to an order of the Court in Lunenburg County held February 1762, we JONES RAYNALD, JOEL WALKER & WARREN WALKER, have appraised the estate offered us by PERRIN ALDAY, executor of the estate of RICHARD WARD, deceased in Cumberland County, which is valued in Current money as follows -- 734 pounds 18 shillings 8 pense. /s/ Friday 30th April 1762, recorded 4 May 1762.
1762, May 4, Will Book 2, page 143, RICHARD WARD:
Pursuant to an order of the Court held in Lunenburg County February 1762, we, SAMUEL JOHNSTON, SAMUEL DAVIS, & ROBERT WOODS, have appraised the estate offered to us by PERRIN ALDAY, executor of the estate of RICHARD WARD, deceased, which in current money is as follows -- 518 pounds 2 shillings 2 pence. Recorded 4 May 1762.
[Note: In 1749 Perrin Alday was listed as the overseer of Richard Ward's property in the List of Tithables of Lunenburg County.]\
1763, May Court, Lunenburg County Order Book 9, page 33.
At a Court of Oyer & Terminer appointed and held at Lunenburg Courthouse on May 12, 1763 for the trial of VALL, a Negro man slave belonging to ELIZABETH FUQUA, and BOSEN, a Negro man slave belonging to the estate of RICHARD WARD deceased, on suspicion of their being guilty of burning the dwelling house of OWEN MURFY and stealing 25 pounds 2 shillings 6 pence and wearing apparel, the property of said Murfy. The prisoners after being set to the bar and being asked if they were guilty say they were not guilty, whereupon divers witnesses were sworn and examined. Page 34. and the prisoners were heard in their own defence on consideration whereof, it is the opinion of the Court that VALL & BOSEN are guilty. It is ordered they be remanded to jail and thence be carried to the place of execution and there be by the Sheriff hanged by their neck until they are dead. And the Court values VALL at 100 pounds and BOSEN at 10 pounds, which is ordered to be certified to the Assembly for allowance. But the Court recommends VALL to the Governor for his mercy, thereby begging the pardon of his life.
1763, July 14 Court, Lunenburg County, Order Book 9, page 125. JOHN WARD, Petitioner, vs. PERRIN ALDAY, Executor of RICHARD WARD deceased, Defendant On a Petition. The Defendant not appearing, judgment for the Petitioner for 1 pound 17 shillings and 6 pence & the costs.
1763 September 8, Court, Lunenburg County, Order Book 9, page 253. JAMES TAYLOR & THOMAS BEDFORD
1764, May Court, Lunenburg County, VA Order Book 10, page 12.
MARY READ, CLEMENT READ, THOMAS READ & PAUL CARRINGTON administrators of CLEMENT READ dec'd Complainants vs REESE PRICE, Defendant on an attachment. This day came the Plaintiffs by their attorney and the Defendant failing to appear and the Plaintiffs having made oath to their account against said Defendant for 23 pounds & 10 pence ordered that the Plaintiffs recover against the said Defendant the afd sum and costs. PERRIN ALLDAY a garnishee in this suit says that he is willing to answer such judgment as Paulse [sic] shall recover against WARD's estate [sic] as far as assets shall come to his hands.
1764, May Court, Lunenburg County, VA Order Book 10, page
REES PREES, Plaintiff vs. PERRIN ALLDAY, executor of RICHARD WARD dec'd,l Deft, in Debt. This day came the Plaintiff by his attorney and the Defendant in his proper person and said Defendant acknowledges the Plaintiffs action. Ordered that the Plaintiff recover against said Deft. 10 pounds 12 shillings 7 pence and his costs to be levied of the goods & chattels of said testator in the hands of said Deft. when assets if so much he as, if not, then the costs to be levied of his own proper goods & chattels.
1764, October Court, Lunenburg County, VA Order Book 10, Page 171:
BENJAMIN WARD is appointed guardian to RICHARD WARD, Orphan of RICHARD WARD deceased whereupon said BENJAMIN together with sufficient Security entered into bond. [Note: Ben'j is probably Richard Jr.'s half-brother.)
1764, November Court, Lunenburg County, VA Order Book 10, page 195:
For reasons appearing to the Court, BENJAMIN WARD is removed from his guardianship of RICHARD WARD, Orphan of RICHARD WARD deceased and PERRIN AULDAY is appointed guardian in his room, he giving Security, whereupon he, together with sufficient Security, ack. bond."
1764, December 13, Will Book 2, page 243, RICHARD WARD:
A further inventory and appraisement of the estate of RICHARD WARD deceased made by ROBERT WOODS, SAMUEL DAVIS, & SAMUEL JOHNSON; VALUE 9/5 current money; returned to court by PERRIN ALDAY, executor. Recorded 13 Dec 1764.
Will of HENRY WARD, Amelia County, Virginia, dated 14 April 1765
(Henry Ward was the nephew of Richard Ward of Lunenburg Co., VA)
Proven 25 May 1765, Amelia County (Amelia Records, Will Book 2X, page 94]
Bequests to son, BENJAMIN WARD, choice of equal half my land called Wards Fork in Charlotte Co., VA; 10 slaves named JOE, WILL, JACK, POMPY, TOM, CHARLES, ROBIN, DINAH, LETT & DOLL.
[NOTE: this appears to be the same land sold by RICHARD WARD (of this record) to BENJAMIN WARD of Granville Co., NC, which they then sold to Henry Ward. Ward's Fork Mill can be presently found on a topographical map in Charlotte County, VA, near Roanoke Creek Dam No. 6A; off Highway 47; north west of Cullen, south east of Vincent Corner, northwest of Charlotte Court House. Granville County, NC appears to be about 15 miles south of Charlotte County, VA.]
August Court 1766, Lunenburg County, VA Order Book 11, page 188:
JOSEPH MORTON, CLEMENT READ, & PAUL CARRINGTON, Gentlemen, are appointed to settle and adjust an account current of the estate of RICHARD WARD, deceased, and return such account to next Court.
On September 8, 1768 the Estate Inventory of RICHARD WARD was recorded in Lunenburg County, VA Will Book 2, page 334. Account Current of the estate of RICHARD WARD, in account with PERRIN ALDAY executor. Debits include mention of:
1762 -- THOMAS BRANCH, for his trouble & expenses with the said WARD at his house in his illness; BENJAMIN COLLINS & CHRISTOPHER BRANCH part for funeral expenses; HENRY WARD for his attendance by order of court for said testator vs B. WARD; ABRAHAM MARTIN, JOHN ASHWELL for rum for the sale of the estate; JAMES REA, JAMES THAXTON for services for use of the estate; WARREN WALKER, FREDRICK HATCHER, JAMES ARCHDEACON for rum for sale of the estate; THOMAS DEAVENPORT, Sheriff Cumberland County; JOSEPH WILLIAMS; JAMES TAYLOR, Sheriff Lunenburg County; ABNER NASH, PHIL HOLCOMB per JAMES WILSON'S account; ROBERT HASTIE & CO.; PHILLIP WEBER; JAMES MITCHELL; CHARLES CUPPLES; WILLIAM COOK; PEYTON RANDOLPH, Esq.; WILLIAM BAILEY.
1763 -- JO WILLIAMS, Sheriff Lunenburg County per exo. WARD v WARD's excrs, JO WILLIAMS, Sheriff Lunenburg per WALTERS & CO execution; GEORGE COX, CHARLES CUPPLES, BERNARD MARKHAM, Sheriff Lunenburg.
1764 -- ROBERT NEALY, JAMES ARCHDEACON for his share of several crops, JNO COX, WILLIAM LIGON, ROBERT WOODS for appraising the estate; SAMUEL JOHNSON per ditto; SAMUEL DAVIS per ditto; SETH MOORE for 7 cows & calves purchased of him part of his wife's legacy; WILLIAM FLEMING, Atty at law;
1765 -- JNO WILLIAMS for attendance ads; COX, DUGLASS PUCKETT, NAT WILLIAMS Sheriff Lunenburg, WM. COOK, WM. WARD, THOMAS SEWELL, SAM'L JOHNSTON for carriage of tobacco, JOSEPH FRANCIS, THOMAS RICE for carriage of tobacco.
1767 -- THOMAS PRICE, JNO CHAMBERS for building a house; THOMAS RICE for carriage of tobacco; DAVID MADDOX per ditto; MATTHEW WATSON for MCNESSE judgment; DAVID CALDWELL for carriage of tobacco.
1768 -- THOMAS JOHN for 3 years' board of RICHARD WARD orphan of the testator; JAMES ARCHDEACON, JOSEPH DAVIS, JNO COBBS for work, THOMAS MOODY for a coffin. SETH WARD for a side of leather; ELIZA. FUQUA for laying (paying) 2 Negro women; JAMES FRENCH for BUCHANAN & CO for dealings with ROBERT SHARPER; JNO COX judgment; DAVID CALDWELL, carriae of tobacco; ANDREW FRENCH, PAUL CARRINGTON atty at.
Credits include mention of: 1762 -- THOMAS BRANCH, JNO BARKSDALE, DUDLEY BARKSDALE, JACOB STOBER, JNO COX SMITH'S RIVER, ROBERT NEALY for rent; Mich; I MCDEARMAN'S exors, JAMES FRENCH, DAVID CALDWELL, ANDREW FRENCH for paying the Sheriff Charlotte County; JAMES MCCRAW, EDWARD DAY for rent; JAMES FRENCH for PHIL. HOLCOMB, ROBERT NEALY for rent. Total credits: 814 L 10 shillings 4.5 pence
1765,14 October, Charlotte Deed Book 1:149: GEORGE SCOTT of Charlotte to WM. COOK of same 92 acres in Charlotte bounded by lines of JAMES ORR, RICHARD WARD, WM. AUSTIN, SAML DAVIS, WM. COOK.
1766, 4 August, Charlotte DB 1:178: SAM'L DAVIS of Charlotte to WM. COOK of same 220 acres in Charlotte bounded on south of Wards Fork by lines of JOHN RICE, RICHARD WARD dec'd, GEORGE SCOTT, SAM'L DAVIS, PERRIN ALDAY, WM. COOK.
1768, August Court, Lunenburg County, VA, Order Book 11, page 120 :
PERRIN ALDAY, Guardian of RICHARD WARD, orphan of RICHARD WARD, deceased is excused of rendering any account of the profits of the estate "till the next year."
September 8, 1768. We, being appointed by Lunenburg Court to settle the account of PERRIN ALDAY the executor of RICHARD WARD deceased have examined the account of and find a balance of 6L 7 shillings 10.5 pence due from the estate to the executor, exclusive of his trouble in the management of this estate. Signed -- JOS MORTON, CLEMENT READ, P. CARRINGTON. Recorded September 8, 1768.
In the Vestry Book of Cumberland Parish on 24 March 1772, Returns of Bryan Lester and Robert Estes, Jr., Process, states: "We have processioned the lands in the bounds appointed us as followeth: RICHARD WARD. Capt. Richard Claiborne's land in presence of RICHARD WARD. (Note: this is probably Richard Ward, Jr. son of Richard of this record.]
Jack Webber posted 28 October 2005 on Genforum the following message. "I don't know any of the Graham descendants and don't know where the Bible is today. It was owned by Mrs. Graham in 1907. I have a transcript copy of the Bible record. Here's what the transcript says, as you may find it helpful."
Richard and Ann Ligon Family Bible These entries are taken from a Holy Bible printed in Edinburgh by Mark and Charles Kerr, 1795. The Bible is owned by Mrs. William Henry Graham, 1907:
Richard Ward and Frances Worsham was married December 18th 1716
Phillip Webber and Tahpenes Ward was married October 14th 1751
Richard Ligon and Ann Bevill Webber was married September 10th 1797
NOTE: On erection of Charlotte County in 1765 from a part of Lunenburg County, Cornwall Parish fell within the boundaries of Charlotte. Lunenburg County was formed from Brunswick County in 1745. Greenville County was formed in 1780 from Brunswick County. Albemarle County was formed from Goochland County in 1744 & part of Louisa County & certain islands in the Fluvanna River, now called the James River, were later added. Cumberland County was formed from Goochland County in 1749. Powhatan County was formed from Cumberland County in 1777 & part of Chesterfield County was later added.
About 1716 RICHARD WARD married firstly, FRANCES WORSHAM, and they had two known children, BENJAMIN born 1717 & TAHPANES (born 1729) who married PHILIP WEBBER. Sometime between 1729 and 1759 FRANCES WORSHAM WARD died. In 1759 Richard married secondly MARY JOHNS (daughter of THOMAS RICE JOHNS and CATHERINE AUSTIN) and had a son, RICHARD WARD Jr. born c1760, & daughter CATHERINE WARD born 1761. Mary disappeared from the records shortly after Richard Ward's death.
RICHARD WARD led an interesting and colorful life. He lived at various times in Brunswick County, Cumberland County, Henrico, and Lunenburg in Virginia and briefly in Granville Co., NC. He was frequently involved in legal disputes demonstrated through court records. He had 4 known children, 19 grand-children, & 62 great-grandchildren.
In 1708 The Secret Diary of William Byrd of Westover 1709-1712," edited by Wright and Tinling, I take note of the entry for 18 Dec 1710: ". . . About 12 o'clock came DICK WARD from above to settle accounts with me. He did not tell me that some part of the dam was gone, but Ralph G-p-l-n did tell me there was three feet of it gone . . . "
Further proof is needed for the following allegations as more than one Richard Ward lived in Henrico at the time. A Richard Ward was in Henrico County court several times 1714 to 1724 accused of fighting in court, theft, assault & battery, trespass, not paying his bills, & swearing. Below are some of these dubious achievements. In August 1714 authorities arrested THOMAS MATTHEWS, EDWARD MATTHEWS, & RICHARD WARD for fighting in the court. In September 1720 RICHARD WARD trespassed on the land of his brother SETH WARD and assaulted him. Richard was arrested but when he did not appear in court, the Court imposed on him a £50 judgement to be voided if RICHARD showed at the next court. We presume THOMAS TURPIN, RICHARD'S surety, got him to court. The next month, JOHN SOANE accused RICHARD WARD of trespass, and in February 1720/1 GEORGE RONALD brought a complaint against him. WILLIAM RANDOLPH sued Richard for to collect money owed to him in court in August 1721. RICHARD was guilty of some lesser offenses. In June 1722 a grand jury indicted him for swearing and ordered him to pay the churchwardens 5 shillings or 50 pounds of tobacco. His brother SETH was his security. Ironically court records identify RICHARD WARD as an Under Deputy Sheriff in January 1722/3 and during the next two years he brought minor complaints against JOHN PETER BONDURANT and JOHN BURTON. In June 1724 RICHARD DENNIS complained to a Henrico County justice that RICHARD stole eight or nine bushels of Indian corn. They arrested RICHARD but it seems he escaped prosecution on a technicality. The court concluded 'the proceedings upon said complaint are not legal, the same is dismissed and each party is ordered to pay his own costs.' RICHARD's last appearance in Henrico County court was in October 1724 for assaulting and beating JOHN BURTON. A jury awarded BURTON 17 shillings and court costs. He evidently took his frustration elsewhere as THOMAS FRANKLIN accused RICHARD WARD of assault and battery in Amelia County in 1736." In 1723 Richard Ward obtained by "Distrainte" from Thomas Pleasants one feather bed, one sheet, and one blanket. (Henrico Co., VA Monthly Meeting, Pleasants)
LAND PATENTS GRANTED TO RICHARD WARD:
1733, March 3: Goochland (later Cumberland) County, 450 acres N side of Appomattox River beginning at the mouth of Angola Creek [Register of Land Office, Richmond, Patent Book 15, p. 180].
1740, August 28: Prince Edward County, 400 acres on the Appomattox River (Early Settlers of Prince Edward County}
1742, January 12: Brunswick County, 400 acres, S side Ward's fork. [Note: in present Charlotte County.]
1742, July 30: Goochland County, 200 acres south side James River on Swift Creek, in a Meadow; adjacent Thomas Watkins, Michael Garthwright & John Maxey; Whereas by Patent 11 April 1732 granted Nathaniel Maxey 11 April 1732 {PB 14, p 394) and whereas the said Nathaniel Maxey hath failed to make Cultivation & Improvement and Richard Ward hath made Humble Suit and obtained a Grant for the same. {Included in Thomas Green's PB 27, p 132); [Patent Book 20, p. 411]
1742/43, February 12: Brunswick County, 304 acres on north side Ward Fork down said creek, adjoining MARTIN. [Patent Book 20, 254] [Note this land is in present Charlotte County.]
1742/43, February 12: RICHARD WARD, Brunswick County, 320 acres, South side of Ward's Fork, adj. Martin, 2 pounds, Patent Book 21, page 196.
1746/47, January 12: Brunswick County, 404 acres on South side of Wards fork; 2 pounds; `1Patent Book 28, page 68.
1746, March 29: Goochland County Deed Book 3:172: Indenture between WILLIAM KANNON, carpenter of Goochland & RICHARD WARD of same, L55, 492 acres, patented to JOHN MARTAN by patent 20 Aug 1741 and by MARTIN sold to said WILLIAM CANNON & bounded by the creek. Signed William Cannon. Witnessed by JOHN COX, FREDRICK COX, JOHN JONES. April 3, 1746 Court recorded.
1746, August 28: Amelia County VA (later Prince Edward County) 400 acres South side Appomattox River adjoining Osborne's line, beginning at Osborne's corner white oak on the river; formerly granted to JOHN DAWSON, since deceased, 30 July 1738, and Henry Dawson, son & heir of said John Dawson, failing to seat, same is now granted to RICHARD WARD having made humble Suit and hath obtained a Grant for the same. (Probably the same 400 acres that RICHARD WARD gifted to his daughter, TAHPANES WARD, on 5 September 1754 in Prince Edward County, VA.) Patent Book 25:217
1748, September 20: Amelia County (later Prince Edward Co.) RICHARD WARD, 500 acres, South side of Little Saylor's Creek, part of a patent for 3146 acres formerly granted JOHN CRAWFORD by patent 5 June 1736 and forfeited for want of seating; upon the Petition of the sd Richard Ward to our General Court the said Land. Patent Book 28, p. 376]
1748, September 28 Lunenburg County, VA Deed Book 4, p321.
I, REECE PREECE, of Lunenburg, for 50 pounds sell to RICHARD WARD of Goochland County, one plantation & parcel of land conveyed from JOHN SMITH to PREECE by Lunenburg deed of April 1, 1748, containing 337 acres in Lunenburg in Wards Fork and bounded by trees. signed Sep 28, 1748. REES PREES. Witness MATHEW TALBOT, JOHN GWIN, PERRIN ALDAY. Recorded October 5, 1756 after PERRIN AULDAY, one of the witnesses gave oath, and CATHRINE, wife of said REES, relinquished her right of dower and on 6 October 1756 the deed was further proved by the oath of Matthew Talbot, Gentleman. [Note: in present Charlotte County]
1748, November 23, Lunenburg County Deed Book 1, p 386: JOSEPH WARD of Amelia County for 50 pounds to RICHARD WARD of Goochland County, 50 pounds, a plantation and 200 acres on the north side of Stanton River, signed 23 November 1748, JOSEPH WARD. Witnesses, PERRIN ALLDAY, JOHN GWIN, JOHN AUSTIN. Recorded February 1748.
1749, page 93, William Caldwell's List of Tithes from Falling River to Little Roanoke River, Lunenburg County, Virginia listed RICHARD WARD and his overseer, PERRIN ALDAY. (Source: Sunlight on the Southside) [Note: Falling River is in present Campbell County, formerly Lunenburg County.]
1749, June 5, Lunenburg County Road Orders, O.S. page 156: Ordered that a road be laid off & clear'd the best and most convenient way from Youngs Mill Path to Little Roanoke Bridge at Coles Road and SAMUEL DUVAL is appointed Surveyor thereof. And it is ordered that the said Duval with all the Male Labouring Tithable Persons Convenient thereto, to wit, SAMUEL JOHNSON, WILLIAM JOHNSON, STEPHEN COLLINS, and his son, JOHN PRATT, CLEMENT READS Tithable, THOMAS VERNON, JOHN AUSTIN, JOHN ADKINS, JOHN AUSTIN JUR. RICHARD WARDS - TITHABLES, and all others Convenient therefore forthwith Clear and keep the same in Repair according to law.
1750, page 150, Richard Ward was listed in the Tithables of Lunenburg County, Virginia on the list of Abraham Martin. (Source: Sunlight on the Southside)
1751, September 19: Amelia County, RICHARD WARD of Cumberland County to JAMES MITCHELL of Raleigh Parish, Amelia County, 1000 pounds currency, 500 acres in AMELIA COUNTY on South side of Little Sailor Creek. (Amelia County Deed Book 4, page 148). [Note this property, SaIlors Creek, appears to be in present Prince Edward County probably SW of Sailor's Creek Battlefield Historical State Park near property deeded to Richard Ward's daughter, Tahpenes Ward, in 1754 and which was left by will to his son, Richard Ward, Jr., in 1762).
1752, RICHARD WARD, 3 Tithables, Lunenburg County, VA, William Caldwell's List ; page 188; JAMES WILSON was listed with Richard Ward. (source: Sunlight on the Southside)
1754, September 5: Prince Edward County, RICHARD WARD of Cumberland County deeded to his daughter TAHPENES WARD of Cumberland County, deed of gift, 400 acres in Prince Edward County, on Appomattox River, adjoining JOSEPH WARD, JOHN JOHNSON, DAVID GREENHILL, formerly HENRY DAWSON. Witness: BENJAMIN WARD. (Prince Edward Records, Deed Book I, page 15) (Note: TAHPANES WARD married PHILLIP WEBBER in 1751. This would be the same 400 acres that Richard Ward acquired 28 August 1746 in Prince Edward County, prior to the formation of that county from Amelia County in 1753 as previously noted in 1746, August 28: Amelia County (later Prince Edward), 400 acres S side Appomattox River adjoining Osborne's line, beginning at Osborne's corner white oak on the river; formerly granted to JOHN DAWSON, since deceased, 30 July 1738, and Henry Dawson, son & heir of said John Dawson, failing to seat, same is now granted to RICHARD WARD. , Patent Book 25, p. 217] [Note: The above described land is probably situated north of Hwgs 460 & 370 and north of Rice, east of Farmville, according to a present day topographical mouth of Prince Edward County.]
1754, September 5: Lunenburg County, RICHARD WARD of Southam Parish, Cumberland County, for L500 currency, conveyed to BENJAMIN WARD of Granville County, NC, 13 Negroes, all stock of horses, cattle, hogs, household furniture belonging to my plantation in Lunenburg County. (Lunenburg Records Deed Book 4, page 288; duplicate record Lunenburg Deed Book 5, page 197.)
1755, June 25: Lunenburg County, VA. RICHARD WARD witnessed the will of THOMAS WILLIAMSON. Will Book 2, page 154, recorded 7 October 1755.
1755, June 30: Lunenburg County, RICHARD WARD of Cumberland Co., VA conveyed to BENJAMIN WARD of Granville Co., NC, for 1500 pounds currency, all said RICHARD WARD' s lands in Lunenburg Co., on Ward's Ford, branch of Little Roanoke, & all buildings & appurtenances. Signed RICHARD WARD. Witnesses, JOHN COX, MICAJAH SMITHSON, JAMES CARY JR. Recorded 1 July 1755. (Lunenburg Deed Book 4, page 150)
1755, June 30: Lunenburg County, RICHARD WARD, late of Cumberland Co., VA but at present of Granville Co., NC, Planter, granted his power of attorney to his trusty friend, BENJAMIN WARD, late of Granville Co., NC, but now of Lunenburg Co., VA to demand, sue for, recover, receive of all persons indebted to me in Virginia and to deliver up in execution all persons whom I have become special for in any suit or action now pending and undetermined in any court of Virginia. (Lunenburg Deed Book 4, page 151). (NOTE: Benjamin Ward mentioned herein may be Richard's nephew. The Census Index of Colonial America indicates that in 1755 and 1769 a Benjamin Ward was enumerated in Granville Co., NC.]
On 18 April 1758 BENJAMIN & MARTHA WARD of Granville County conveyed to HENRY WARD of Amelia County for 550 pounds all his lands in Lunenburg deeded him on June 30, 1755 by RICHARD WARD. In his will dated 14 April 1765 HENRY WARD willed this land at Ward's Fork, half to his own son BENJAMIN WARD and half to another son HENRY WARD, JR.] [ Ward's Fork Mill can be presently found on a topographical map in Charlotte County, VA, near Roanoke Creek Dam No. 6A; off Highway 47; north west of Cullen, south east of Vincent Corner, northwest of Charlotte Court House. This land is located in close proximity to the border of Prince Edward & Charlotte Counties.]
1755, July 21: Lunenburg County, Trial of RICHARD WARD for a felony (nature not given); not guilty and instantly discharged. NATHANIEL BASSETT came into court and made oath that he believed himself in danger of his life from RICHARD WARD and said WARD is bound over to keep the peace, etc, his bondsmen being JAMES CARY, JR., BEN HARRIS, JEREMIAH HATCHER & BENJAMIN WARD. (Lunenburg Order Book 1754-55, pages not numbered.)
1755, November 6: Lunenburg County Road Orders, page 44: Ordered that the following Persons be added to the Road whereof SAMUEL JOHNSON is surveyor to assist the said Johnson in Clearing & keeping the same repaired, to wit, JOHN PLEASANTS & RICHARD WARDS male Labouring Tithables, JAMES NELSON, GEORGE HARRIS & JOHN BUTLER
1756, July 7, Lunenburg County Virginia Deed Book 1757-1761, Deed Book 5, page 197: "I RICHARD WARD of the Parish of Southam in the County of Cumberland for 500 pounds to me in hand paid by BENJAMIN WARD of Granville County, NC, have sold him 13 Negroes: WILL, LUCY, TOM, AGGA, BILLY, DAVIE, JENNY, JACK, BESS, GIDDY, ABSALOM, PETER & HANNAH. Also all my stock of horses, cattle, hogs & household furniture belonging to my Lunenburg plantation. Signed September 5, 1754: RICHARD WARD. Witnessed: CHARLES CUPPLES, JOHN FORD, ABRAHAM BAKER. The bill of sale was recorded July 7, 1756.
1758, April 18; Lunenburg County Deed Book 5, page 217.
From BENJAMIN WARD and MARTHA, his wife, of Granville County, North Carolina to HENRY WARD of Amelia County for 550 pounds, all his lands in Lunenburg County, being on Wards Fork, a branch of Little Roanoke [Roanoke River] and being all the land that the said BENJAMIN WARD had of RICHARD WARD which was deeded to him on June 30, 1755. Signed BENJAMIN WARD. Witnesses, JOHN COX JR., EDWARD HOGANS (HOGINS), JOHN POTTER. Recorded 2 May 1758.
[NOTE: This Benjamin Ward is probably the nephew of said Richard Ward; Martha is Martha Lyle. Ward's Fork Mill can be presently found on a topographical map in Charlotte County, VA, near Roanoke Creek Dam No. 6A; off Highway 47; north west of Cullen, south east of Vincent Corner, northwest of Charlotte Court House. This land is located in close proximity to the border of Prince Edward & Charlotte Counties.]
1758, September 28: Lunenburg County, REECE PREECE of Lunenburg County for L50 currency conveys to RICHARD WARD of Goochland, 337 acres on Wards Fork, Lunenburg County.
[Ward's Fork Mill can be presently found on a topographical map in Charlotte County, VA, near Roanoke Creek Dam No. 6A; off Highway 47; north west of Cullen, south east of Vincent Corner, northwest of Charlotte Court House.]
1760, 3 March: Lunenburg County Deeds, page 669, BENJAMIN WARD recorded 1,316 acres on both sides of Little Horsepen Creek adjacent to WILLIAM and MAYS, for 6 pounds 15 shillings.
[Little Horsepen Creek can be presently located on a topographical map near Roanoke Creek Dam No. 49A; it is north of Formosa, north east of Rancolph, and south seast from Sax, and west off Highway 47; about 15.5 miles south of Wards Fork Mill.)
1761, October 13: Lunenburg County, JAMES CALDWELL, of Lunenburg County, to RICHARD WARD of Lunenburg County for 60 pounds currency, 160 1/2 acres on branches of Sandy Creek. (Lunenburg Deed Book 7, page 157). [Sandy Creek can be presently located on a topographical map in Charlotte County, VA south of Highway 40 between Phenix (to the west) and Womachs (to the east) and southwest from Wards Fork Mill, a distance of approximately five miles or so.]
1762, February 2: Lunenburg County, VA Will Book 1:341 (He had died prior to 23 Nov 1761)
WILL OF RICHARD WARD of Cornwall Parish, Lunenburg County, dated November 17, 1759, probated February 2, 1762, devised: To my son BENJAMIN WARD, 120 acres in Cumberland Parish (or county) adjoining JAMES BROWN, JONAS RENULS, and VALENTINE COLLEY; [NOTE: Cumberland Parish became Bedford County, 1753; (more likely it is in Cumberland County where Richard owned other property] To daughter TAHPENAHS WARD, 1 shilling; To wife MARY WARD is loaned 6 Negroes (BOWSER, HARRY, MODESTY, DICK, ANNIS & MOLL) during her life and is given a feather beds and furniture, riding horse, side saddle, etc, also 350 acres in Lunenburg County between WILLIAM FUQUA and LENNARD WARD to her and her heirs lawfully begotten; To child [sic, Richard Ward] wife [sic, Mary Johns Ward) is now with, 150 acres in Chesterfield County (between the river adjoining ELIZA GAY and SETH WARD, between the road and the river and also 101 acres in Cumberland County between Angolea Creek and Appomattox River and also the land I now enjoy in Lunenburg County and all the Negroes and everything I am possessed within Cumberland County and also in Lunenburg County and 6 Negroes I lent my wife (sic, BOWSER, HARRY, MODESTY, DICK, ANNIS, & MOLL).
Executors: friend, SEATH WARD & PERRIN ALDAY.
Witnesses: ABRAHAM MARTIN, NEAL FRANK, JOSHUA WHARTON.
(sic, Mary Johns was a niece of Perrin Alday, who was married to her mother's sister. According to a topographical map of Virginia, the property left to child, Richard Ward, as above described is located presently in Cumberland County, between Angola Creek and the Appomattox River, north east of Farmville. The land presently is not far from the Amelia County & Prince Edward County lines. Cumberland County lies on the north side of the Appomattox River & Prince Edward County lies on the south side. Present Charlotte is about 30 miles south.)
February 2nd Court 1762 the will of RICHARD WARD was exhibited in court by SETH WARD & PERRIN AULDAY, the executors and was proved by the oaths of the witnesses and ordered to be recorded. And said SETH WARD relinquished, whereupon the motion of PERRIN AULDAY, the other executor, certificate is granted unto him for obtaining a probate of said will, he giving security, whereupon, he together with ALEXANDER JOYCE, THOMAS JOYCE, JOHN PETTUS, DUDLEY BARKSDALE, FRANCIS COOK, WILLIAM COOK, and JOHN RICE, his securities entered into their bond for said AULDAY's due execution of said will.
1762, May 4: Lunenburg Co., VA Will Book 2, page 131, RICHARD WARD:
Pursuant to an order of the Court in Lunenburg County held February 1762, we JONES RAYNALD, JOEL WALKER & WARREN WALKER, have appraised the estate offered us by PERRIN ALDAY, executor of the estate of RICHARD WARD, deceased in Cumberland County, which is valued in Current money as follows -- 734 pounds 18 shillings 8 pense. /s/ Friday 30th April 1762, recorded 4 May 1762.
1762, May 4, Will Book 2, page 143, RICHARD WARD:
Pursuant to an order of the Court held in Lunenburg County February 1762, we, SAMUEL JOHNSTON, SAMUEL DAVIS, & ROBERT WOODS, have appraised the estate offered to us by PERRIN ALDAY, executor of the estate of RICHARD WARD, deceased, which in current money is as follows -- 518 pounds 2 shillings 2 pence. Recorded 4 May 1762.
[Note: In 1749 Perrin Alday was listed as the overseer of Richard Ward's property in the List of Tithables of Lunenburg County.]\
1763, May Court, Lunenburg County Order Book 9, page 33.
At a Court of Oyer & Terminer appointed and held at Lunenburg Courthouse on May 12, 1763 for the trial of VALL, a Negro man slave belonging to ELIZABETH FUQUA, and BOSEN, a Negro man slave belonging to the estate of RICHARD WARD deceased, on suspicion of their being guilty of burning the dwelling house of OWEN MURFY and stealing 25 pounds 2 shillings 6 pence and wearing apparel, the property of said Murfy. The prisoners after being set to the bar and being asked if they were guilty say they were not guilty, whereupon divers witnesses were sworn and examined. Page 34. and the prisoners were heard in their own defence on consideration whereof, it is the opinion of the Court that VALL & BOSEN are guilty. It is ordered they be remanded to jail and thence be carried to the place of execution and there be by the Sheriff hanged by their neck until they are dead. And the Court values VALL at 100 pounds and BOSEN at 10 pounds, which is ordered to be certified to the Assembly for allowance. But the Court recommends VALL to the Governor for his mercy, thereby begging the pardon of his life.
1763, July 14 Court, Lunenburg County, Order Book 9, page 125. JOHN WARD, Petitioner, vs. PERRIN ALDAY, Executor of RICHARD WARD deceased, Defendant On a Petition. The Defendant not appearing, judgment for the Petitioner for 1 pound 17 shillings and 6 pence & the costs.
1763 September 8, Court, Lunenburg County, Order Book 9, page 253. JAMES TAYLOR & THOMAS BEDFORD
1764, May Court, Lunenburg County, VA Order Book 10, page 12.
MARY READ, CLEMENT READ, THOMAS READ & PAUL CARRINGTON administrators of CLEMENT READ dec'd Complainants vs REESE PRICE, Defendant on an attachment. This day came the Plaintiffs by their attorney and the Defendant failing to appear and the Plaintiffs having made oath to their account against said Defendant for 23 pounds & 10 pence ordered that the Plaintiffs recover against the said Defendant the afd sum and costs. PERRIN ALLDAY a garnishee in this suit says that he is willing to answer such judgment as Paulse [sic] shall recover against WARD's estate [sic] as far as assets shall come to his hands.
1764, May Court, Lunenburg County, VA Order Book 10, page
REES PREES, Plaintiff vs. PERRIN ALLDAY, executor of RICHARD WARD dec'd,l Deft, in Debt. This day came the Plaintiff by his attorney and the Defendant in his proper person and said Defendant acknowledges the Plaintiffs action. Ordered that the Plaintiff recover against said Deft. 10 pounds 12 shillings 7 pence and his costs to be levied of the goods & chattels of said testator in the hands of said Deft. when assets if so much he as, if not, then the costs to be levied of his own proper goods & chattels.
1764, October Court, Lunenburg County, VA Order Book 10, Page 171:
BENJAMIN WARD is appointed guardian to RICHARD WARD, Orphan of RICHARD WARD deceased whereupon said BENJAMIN together with sufficient Security entered into bond. [Note: Ben'j is probably Richard Jr.'s half-brother.)
1764, November Court, Lunenburg County, VA Order Book 10, page 195:
For reasons appearing to the Court, BENJAMIN WARD is removed from his guardianship of RICHARD WARD, Orphan of RICHARD WARD deceased and PERRIN AULDAY is appointed guardian in his room, he giving Security, whereupon he, together with sufficient Security, ack. bond."
1764, December 13, Will Book 2, page 243, RICHARD WARD:
A further inventory and appraisement of the estate of RICHARD WARD deceased made by ROBERT WOODS, SAMUEL DAVIS, & SAMUEL JOHNSON; VALUE 9/5 current money; returned to court by PERRIN ALDAY, executor. Recorded 13 Dec 1764.
Will of HENRY WARD, Amelia County, Virginia, dated 14 April 1765
(Henry Ward was the nephew of Richard Ward of Lunenburg Co., VA)
Proven 25 May 1765, Amelia County (Amelia Records, Will Book 2X, page 94]
Bequests to son, BENJAMIN WARD, choice of equal half my land called Wards Fork in Charlotte Co., VA; 10 slaves named JOE, WILL, JACK, POMPY, TOM, CHARLES, ROBIN, DINAH, LETT & DOLL.
[NOTE: this appears to be the same land sold by RICHARD WARD (of this record) to BENJAMIN WARD of Granville Co., NC, which they then sold to Henry Ward. Ward's Fork Mill can be presently found on a topographical map in Charlotte County, VA, near Roanoke Creek Dam No. 6A; off Highway 47; north west of Cullen, south east of Vincent Corner, northwest of Charlotte Court House. Granville County, NC appears to be about 15 miles south of Charlotte County, VA.]
August Court 1766, Lunenburg County, VA Order Book 11, page 188:
JOSEPH MORTON, CLEMENT READ, & PAUL CARRINGTON, Gentlemen, are appointed to settle and adjust an account current of the estate of RICHARD WARD, deceased, and return such account to next Court.
On September 8, 1768 the Estate Inventory of RICHARD WARD was recorded in Lunenburg County, VA Will Book 2, page 334. Account Current of the estate of RICHARD WARD, in account with PERRIN ALDAY executor. Debits include mention of:
1762 -- THOMAS BRANCH, for his trouble & expenses with the said WARD at his house in his illness; BENJAMIN COLLINS & CHRISTOPHER BRANCH part for funeral expenses; HENRY WARD for his attendance by order of court for said testator vs B. WARD; ABRAHAM MARTIN, JOHN ASHWELL for rum for the sale of the estate; JAMES REA, JAMES THAXTON for services for use of the estate; WARREN WALKER, FREDRICK HATCHER, JAMES ARCHDEACON for rum for sale of the estate; THOMAS DEAVENPORT, Sheriff Cumberland County; JOSEPH WILLIAMS; JAMES TAYLOR, Sheriff Lunenburg County; ABNER NASH, PHIL HOLCOMB per JAMES WILSON'S account; ROBERT HASTIE & CO.; PHILLIP WEBER; JAMES MITCHELL; CHARLES CUPPLES; WILLIAM COOK; PEYTON RANDOLPH, Esq.; WILLIAM BAILEY.
1763 -- JO WILLIAMS, Sheriff Lunenburg County per exo. WARD v WARD's excrs, JO WILLIAMS, Sheriff Lunenburg per WALTERS & CO execution; GEORGE COX, CHARLES CUPPLES, BERNARD MARKHAM, Sheriff Lunenburg.
1764 -- ROBERT NEALY, JAMES ARCHDEACON for his share of several crops, JNO COX, WILLIAM LIGON, ROBERT WOODS for appraising the estate; SAMUEL JOHNSON per ditto; SAMUEL DAVIS per ditto; SETH MOORE for 7 cows & calves purchased of him part of his wife's legacy; WILLIAM FLEMING, Atty at law;
1765 -- JNO WILLIAMS for attendance ads; COX, DUGLASS PUCKETT, NAT WILLIAMS Sheriff Lunenburg, WM. COOK, WM. WARD, THOMAS SEWELL, SAM'L JOHNSTON for carriage of tobacco, JOSEPH FRANCIS, THOMAS RICE for carriage of tobacco.
1767 -- THOMAS PRICE, JNO CHAMBERS for building a house; THOMAS RICE for carriage of tobacco; DAVID MADDOX per ditto; MATTHEW WATSON for MCNESSE judgment; DAVID CALDWELL for carriage of tobacco.
1768 -- THOMAS JOHN for 3 years' board of RICHARD WARD orphan of the testator; JAMES ARCHDEACON, JOSEPH DAVIS, JNO COBBS for work, THOMAS MOODY for a coffin. SETH WARD for a side of leather; ELIZA. FUQUA for laying (paying) 2 Negro women; JAMES FRENCH for BUCHANAN & CO for dealings with ROBERT SHARPER; JNO COX judgment; DAVID CALDWELL, carriae of tobacco; ANDREW FRENCH, PAUL CARRINGTON atty at.
Credits include mention of: 1762 -- THOMAS BRANCH, JNO BARKSDALE, DUDLEY BARKSDALE, JACOB STOBER, JNO COX SMITH'S RIVER, ROBERT NEALY for rent; Mich; I MCDEARMAN'S exors, JAMES FRENCH, DAVID CALDWELL, ANDREW FRENCH for paying the Sheriff Charlotte County; JAMES MCCRAW, EDWARD DAY for rent; JAMES FRENCH for PHIL. HOLCOMB, ROBERT NEALY for rent. Total credits: 814 L 10 shillings 4.5 pence
1765,14 October, Charlotte Deed Book 1:149: GEORGE SCOTT of Charlotte to WM. COOK of same 92 acres in Charlotte bounded by lines of JAMES ORR, RICHARD WARD, WM. AUSTIN, SAML DAVIS, WM. COOK.
1766, 4 August, Charlotte DB 1:178: SAM'L DAVIS of Charlotte to WM. COOK of same 220 acres in Charlotte bounded on south of Wards Fork by lines of JOHN RICE, RICHARD WARD dec'd, GEORGE SCOTT, SAM'L DAVIS, PERRIN ALDAY, WM. COOK.
1768, August Court, Lunenburg County, VA, Order Book 11, page 120 :
PERRIN ALDAY, Guardian of RICHARD WARD, orphan of RICHARD WARD, deceased is excused of rendering any account of the profits of the estate "till the next year."
September 8, 1768. We, being appointed by Lunenburg Court to settle the account of PERRIN ALDAY the executor of RICHARD WARD deceased have examined the account of and find a balance of 6L 7 shillings 10.5 pence due from the estate to the executor, exclusive of his trouble in the management of this estate. Signed -- JOS MORTON, CLEMENT READ, P. CARRINGTON. Recorded September 8, 1768.
In the Vestry Book of Cumberland Parish on 24 March 1772, Returns of Bryan Lester and Robert Estes, Jr., Process, states: "We have processioned the lands in the bounds appointed us as followeth: RICHARD WARD. Capt. Richard Claiborne's land in presence of RICHARD WARD. (Note: this is probably Richard Ward, Jr. son of Richard of this record.]
Jack Webber posted 28 October 2005 on Genforum the following message. "I don't know any of the Graham descendants and don't know where the Bible is today. It was owned by Mrs. Graham in 1907. I have a transcript copy of the Bible record. Here's what the transcript says, as you may find it helpful."
Richard and Ann Ligon Family Bible These entries are taken from a Holy Bible printed in Edinburgh by Mark and Charles Kerr, 1795. The Bible is owned by Mrs. William Henry Graham, 1907:
Richard Ward and Frances Worsham was married December 18th 1716
Phillip Webber and Tahpenes Ward was married October 14th 1751
Richard Ligon and Ann Bevill Webber was married September 10th 1797
NOTE: On erection of Charlotte County in 1765 from a part of Lunenburg County, Cornwall Parish fell within the boundaries of Charlotte. Lunenburg County was formed from Brunswick County in 1745. Greenville County was formed in 1780 from Brunswick County. Albemarle County was formed from Goochland County in 1744 & part of Louisa County & certain islands in the Fluvanna River, now called the James River, were later added. Cumberland County was formed from Goochland County in 1749. Powhatan County was formed from Cumberland County in 1777 & part of Chesterfield County was later added.
BENJAMIN WARD (1750-1820), SON OF RICHARD WARD & MARY DUKE
BENJAMIN WARD (c1750 - 1820) is the proven son of BENJAMIN WARD and MARY DUKE, who probably resided in Pittsylvania County, Virginia. These Wards descend from SETH WARD of Henrico County, VA, Henry Duke of James City Co., VA and William Byrd, I of Charles City Co., VA. On 16 April 1774 he married SELAH STEWART, daughter of JOHN STEWART & SUSANNAH TANNER, at Pittsylvania County, Virginia, where the Stewarts resided and where Benjamin was living with half-brother DANIEL WARD.
The Ward Family Record of MARY LORENA HANSARD WILSON establishes that BENJAMIN WARD, son of RICHARD & FRANCES WARD, was the father of DANIEL WARD, the half-brother of BENJAMIN WARD of Ashe County, NC. Dr. WILLIAM WARD's probate records in Rutherford County establish that BENJAMIN WARD fathered BENJAMIN WARD of this record. The Ward Family Record was passed down from DANIEL WARD, half-brother of Benjamin Ward, to his daughter ELIZABETH WARD MARCUM, to her granddaughter, MARY ANN HANSARD, grandmother of MARY LORENA HANSARD WILSON of Sweetwater, Tennessee. The document was in Lorena Wilson's hands until the last period of her life. This researcher obtained this information from Virginia Smith, who" visited with Lorena Wilson in about 1980" and who "was allowed to photocopy the document." Mrs. Smith kindly provided a copy to me.
In 1777 BENJAMIN WARD first appears on the Washington Co.,TN Lists of Taxables documented by tax collector, Valentine Sevier, Sheriff, Dr. to the County Court of Washington Co., NC.. His property valuation was L356.10.0; he paid L3.12.0 in taxes. His brother, WILLIAM WARD, was listed on page 4, assessed by Henry Lyle, Samuel Henry & William McNabb and returned to Jno. McNabb, Esq. WILLIAM WARD paid taxes of 1.16.10 1/2]. He had an Estate of 154.12.0 paid taxes of 1.12.9 [Washington Co., TN List of Taxables 1778-1801; Compiled by Mary Hardin McCown, Nancy E. Jones Stickley, and Inez E. Burns.] Additionally JOSHUA CURTIS , father-in-law of Benjamin's son, Daniel, appeared on this list.
The 1778 tax records for Washington Co., NC Taxables indicate BENJAMIN WARD was the neighbor of DAVID HIX (Hicks) Sr. owner of 153 pounds worth of property evaluation and the Asher Family (Charles, Thomas, and William) on the upper portions of the Watauga River around the area later known as Shull's Mill. (On page 7 of the assessments of Benjamin Cobb, Solomon Smith, William Asher and returned to John Chisolm, Esq. appears Demsey Ward, Estate of 171.10.3 and Taxes paid of 1.15.3. No proof to date that Demsey Ward is related to Benjamin Ward.)
In 1779 Benjamin Ward did not appear on the 1779 List of Taxables, Return made by Thomas Houghton, Esquire for 1779 of Washington County, NC to receive the same with proprietors names delivering the same on oath, as also, the Assessment thereon for the year of 1779. The assessors were Matthew Talbot, Sr,. Andrew Taylor, and Clevias Barksdill. WILLIAM WARD was assessed for one site of 250 acres valued at 250. Property included 3 horses valued at 350; 7 cattle valued at 70; ready money of 21.2.8; total value, 691.2.8 current money.
North Carolina Land Grants in Tennessee 1778-1791 stipulate: BENJAMIN WARD filed land grant # 807 for 300 acres on South side of Watauga opposite Cove Creek in Washington Co., TN (later part of Watauga Co., NC). Again in 1789 BENJAMIN WARD filed 300 acre land grant # 861 for land on the South side Watauga opposite the mouth of Cove Creek in Washington Co., NC. (TN State Library, Carter Co. Grants Roll # 15, Book 4, page 468 and Roll # 17, Book 6, page 272, Carter Co. Grants)
BENJAMIN WARD was named a commissioner, along with Robert White, Edward Williams, William Moore, John Hammer, Robert Love, and William Priestly -- merely to select a site for the seat of justice of Washington County, NC in the lost state of Franklin. North Carolina Senator Tipton sought to punish the town of Jonesborough for the attitude of its citizens in the August election by introducing a bill to remove the seat of justice of Washington County. (NC State Records, X VIII, 112.) Excerpt from HISTORY OF THE LOST STATE OF FRANKLIN (Samuel Cole Williams, 1924, The Watauga Press, Johnson City, TN; PP 114-115).
In 1790 BEN WARD and JOSH WARD appear as Heads of Families in the First Federal Census, for Companies 8, 10, & 16, later taken from Wilkes Co. to make Ashe Co. NC in 1799. In the 8th Company BEN WARD had 2 free while males over age 16 (born bef. 1774), 4 white males under age 16 (born 1774-1790), 3 free white females, and 1 slave. JOSH WARD lists 1 free white male over 16 (born bef 1774), 2 free white males under 16 (born 1774-1790), 2 free white females, and no slaves. In 1790 and 1799 JOSH WARD appeared in the Wilkes Co., NC Census records. Ashe was formed from Wilkes County. In 1799 he appeared in the 8th company with 1-2-2-0 persons and possessions. Rutherford County Court Records state that Dr. William Ward had a brother named JOSHUA WARD, thereby proving Josh Ward to be brother to Benjamin Ward of Ashe County, NC.
On 23 October 1792 BENJAMIN WARD and EZEKIEL BAIRD were named executors of the will of DAVID HIX, probated 23 April 1793. David Hix was of Washington County, NC. [Wilkes County, North Carolina Will Abstracts for 1777-1910, number 347]
On 6 May 1795 at the Wilkes Co. NC, Court (Court Minutes Vol. 14, 19) BENJAMIN WARD, William Whittenton, Thomas Linville, Jr., Joseph Moss, Samuel Hicks, George Davis, Shadrick Estop, Lewis Stephens, Ezekial Baird, David Curtis, James Holesclaw, Federick Shull, Simon Shull, Joseph White, George Smith, Baker King, Chesley Coffey were ordered to view whether lands entered by (blank) Cunningham to be fit or not for cultivation.
In 1800 BENJAMIN WARD, DUKE WARD [son of Benjamin], and THOMAS WARD [relationship unknown] appeared in the census for Ashe Co., NC as follows:
BENJAMIN WARD: 4 males to 10 years [4 sons born between 1790-1800]
1 male 16 to 26 years [son born between 1774-1784]
1 male 26 to 45 years [son born between 1755-1784, probably Daniel)] (Ben married in 1774)
1 male 45 or over [Benjamin born before 1755]
2 females 10 - 16 years [daughters Selah & Elizabeth 1784-1790]
1 female 45 or over [Selah born before 1755]
1 slave
DUKE WARD: 1 male 16 to 26 years [born between 1774-1784]
1 female 16 to 26 years [born between 1774-1784]
THOMAS WARD: 1 male 10 to 16 years [born 1784-1790]
1 male 26 to 45 years [[Thomas, born 1755-1784]
1 female to 10 years [daughter born 1790-1800]
1 female 10 to 16 years [daughter born 1784-1790]
1 female 16 - 26 years [daughter born 1774-1784]
1 female 45 or over [woman born before 1755]
(Thomas Ward is probably THOMPSON WARD, nephew of BENJAMIN WARD, & son of JAMES & ELIZABETH WARD who removed to Kentucky.)
LAND ENTRIES IN ASHE COUNTY, NC: February 1800 - June 1809 LISTING BENJAMIN WARD:
1801 Tax List, Washington Co., TN Records: BENJAMIN WARD, listed by assessor James Maulding.
(David Curtis appears on the on same list.)
November 11, 1801, Page 127, # 503: DUKE WARDE enters 25 acres in Ashe County; border: begins on BENJAMIN WARD's North line on Wattauger River; includes the vacant land.
February 8, 1802, Page 145, # 577: BENJAMIN WARD enters 50 acres in Ashe County on Wattauger River border: begins on my own line: includes the "good" vacant land "their abouts".
February 8, 1802, Page 146, # 580: BENJAMIN WARD enters 50 acres in Ashe County on Wattauger River; border: begins on "the" river bank at a pine marked "B W" and runs down said river; includes my "shuger" camp and vacant land "their abouts".
May 8, 1802. Page 168, # 667: BENJAMIN WARD enters 25 acres in Ashe County on South side of Wattauger River; border: begins at a "swomp: dogwood "saplen" marked " B W" on "the" bank of said river, runs down the river to said Ward's "old" grant land & South on said Ward's line; includes the "good" vacant land "their abouts."
August 7, 1802, Page 186, # 740: BENJAMIN WARD enters 50 acres in Ashe County on South side of Watauger River; border: begins at a "swamp" dogwood "saplen" branded "B W" on "the" bank of said river, runs down said river to said Ward's old grant line, & runs South with said Ward's line; includes the "good" vacant land "their abouts."
August 7, 1802, Page 186, # 741: BENJAMIN WARD enters 50 acres in Ashe County on South side of Watauger River; border: begins on bank of said river above mouth of Lorrel Creek, runs down said river, & up both sides of said creek; includes said Ward's mill seat on said creek.
August 7, 1802, Page 186, # 742: BENJAMIN WARD enters 50 acres in Ashe County on North side of Watauger River; border: begins at Ward's old grant linebelow mouth of Cove Creek & runs "various courses"; includes the "good" land and runs on said old grant land to said Ward's new survey line.
August 7, 1802, Page 187, # 743: DANIEL WARD enters 50 acres in Ashe County on North side of Watauger River; border: begins on a sycamore [or syckamore] branded "D W", runs North on BEN WARD's old grant line, West, & joins BEN WARD's new survey; includes the "good" vacant land.
November 11, 1802, Page 127, # 505: DUKE WARDE enters 25 acres in Ashe County on "the" bank of Wattauger River: border: begins near BENJAMIN WARD's North line.
February 7, 1803, Page 233, # 884: BENJAMIN WARD enters 50 acres in Ashe County on a branch of Cove Creek; border: begins at North corner of a conditional line made between said WARD & CUTLER HARMON and runs "various courses"; includes the vacant land "their abouts".
6 DECEMBER 1803, Ashe Co., NC Court Records, Book B, page 133: North Carolina State Land Grant of 50 Acres to BENJAMIN WARD: "The State of North Carolina No. 426. To all whoseoever these presents shall come greeting known we that we for and in consideration of the sum of fifty shillings for every hundred acres hereby granted paid into our treasury by BENJAMIN WARD herein given and granted and by these presents do give and grant unto the said BENJAMIN WARD a tract of land containing fifty acres lying and being in the County of Ashe on the South side of the Watauger River on a Swamp Dogwood and a Locust in SAMUEL BAKER's line and runs down the river as it meanders to a Buckeye and a Hickory near the old crossing thence South with his old grant line twenty two polls to a stake then East with said line forty polls to a hicary then south one hundred polls to a stake then East fifty polls to a stake thence North with Samuel Baker's line to the Beginning. Entered the 7th of August 1802 as the plat hereunto assessed doth appear together with all woods waters mines minerals here accoutrements and appurtenances to the said lease belonging or appertaining to hold to the said BENJAMIN WARD, his heirs and assigns forever yielding and paying to us such sums of money yearly or otherwise as our general assembly from time to time may direct provided always that the said grantee shall cause the grant to be registered in the Register office of our said County of Ashe within twelve months from the date thereof otherwise the same shall be void on testimony whereof we have caused these our letters to be made Patent and our great seal to be hereunto affixed, witnesses JAMES TURNER Esq. our governor captain general and commander in Chief at Raleigh the 6th day of December in the 28th year of our independence and in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and three. By command J. Turner, received in the secretary's office. Wm. White, Sec. D. Caswell, J. Sec.
June 17, 1807, Page 32, # 1757: ELIJAH KILBOURN enters 100 acres in Ashe County on head of Rock House Bridge, on Beaver dam Ridge, & on waters of Rush Branch; includes the dead timber that the old road "goes through" that goes "up" from BEN WARD's to Ben Web's.
November 4, 1813, Page 11, # 2623: BENJAMIN WARD enters 50 acres in Ashe County; border: begins at a white oak near "between" BEN WARD & Richard White's old line on North side of Cove Creek and runs down the creek with his old line; includes the vacant land down "as far as" DAVID WARD's (sic DANIEL WARD) line and runs "various courses."
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August, 1806 BENJAMIN WARD served on a grand jury in the court in Ashe County; others were Thomas Calloway (foreman); David Birely, Henry Graybeal, Andrew Sheets, John Estep, William May, Willie Pennington, J. L. Weaver, William Snow, Daniel Hopper, Carter Whittenton, Samuel Phipps, & James Lewis. [Source: Ashe County: A History; Arthur L. Fletcher; Ashe Co Research Assn. NC; Jefferson, NC; p 80.0]
In 1810 BENJAMIN WARD lived in Ashe Co., NC and also in 1820. In 1820 he Ashe County, North Carolina Census records showed the following:
BENJAMINE WARD: 3-1-1-1-1-0 4-2-0-1-0 (14 in household]
DUKE WARD: 5-4-0-0-0-1 2-2-0-0-1 [15 in household]
JAMES WARD: 1-0-0-1-0-0 1-0-1-0-0 [4 in household]
LELAH WARD (Prob. Selah): 0-0-1-1-0-0 0-0-0-0-1 [3 in household]
April 17, 1820: Land Records, Book F, page 30, Register, Court, Ashe Co., NC
"BENJAMIN WARD Deed to JAMES WARD, 130 acres. This Indenture made this 17th day of April 1820 between BENJAMIN WARD, SR.. of the one part, and JAMES WARD of the other part, both of the County of Ashe and State of North Carolina witnesseth that for and in consideration of the sum of one hundred and ninety dollars to him in hand paid at and before the sealing to these presents, the receipt whereof he doth acknowledge, hat granted, bargained, and sold, and by these presents doth grant, bargain and sell unto him the said JAMES WARD a tract of land containing one hundred and thirty acres to the same more or less, Beginning at a Service tree at the mouth of a small branch on the Bank of Wattauger River running south along a marked line to the old grant line, thence East along said line until it intersects a line of fifty acres the state granted to the said BENJAMIN WARD by this State, thence along round the fifty acre tract the various courses to a swamp dogwood and locust tree on the Bank of the River, thence down the Bank of the River to the Beginning with every right, title, privilege, and emolument thereunto belonging or appertaining unto him the said JAMES WARD his heirs, executors or administrators forever against all lawful claim or demand In witness whereof he had hereunto set his hand and seal the day and date first above written. BENJAMIN WARD, Seal
Witnesses: Bedent Baird Jr; Martin Wilbourn, Thomas Curtis
North Carolina, May Term 1820 within deed was produced in Ashe Co. Open Court by Bedent Baird in order to be registered.
Ashe Count, NC Deed Book 4:386 17th day of April 1820.
BENJAMIN WARD SR, of Ashe to BENJAMIN WARD JR. . . for one hundred and ninety dollars ($190) in hand paid by Ben. Ward J
April 17, 1820: Land Records, Book F, Page 395, Register, Ashe Co,, NC
BENJAMIN WARD Deed to JESSEE WARD, 50 acres. This Indenture made the Seventeenth day of April 1820 between Benjamin Ward of the one part and Jessee Ward of the other, both of the County of Ashe and State of North Carolina Witnesseth, that for and in consideration of the sum of one hundred and ninety dollars to him in hand paid at and before the sealing of these presents, the receipt whereof he doeth acknowledge, hath granted, bargained, and sold and by these presents doth grant bargain, * sail and confirm unto him the said Jessee a tract of land, containing by supposition fifty acres be the same more or less. Beginning at a marked Hickory tree on the Bank of Cove Creek near the mouth of a small branch below the old house, running up the meanders of the branch to the old grant line, thence along said old granted line to where Duke Ward's line intersects & thence west along said line to the Bank of Cove Creek, thence down the Bank of said creek to the beginning with every right, title, privilege, and emolument thereunto belonging or appertaining unto him the said JESSE WARD his heirs, executors, and administrators, well and truly to warrant and forever defend the aforesaid dismisses from all just claims or claims of any person or persons whatsoever in witness he hatch hereunto set his hand and seal the day and date first above written. BENJAMIN WARD (his mark & seal). Witnesses: Bedant Beard, Martin Wilberin, THOMAS CURTIS.
April 18, 1820: LAST WILL & TESTAMENT of BENJAMIN WARD
Dated 18 April 1820; Proved in Open Court, August Court, 1820, Ashe County, NC; recorded in Will Book , page 20, 1820, Ashe County, NC (filed in North Carolina State Archives).
"In the name of god Amen. I BENJAMIN WARD of the County of Ashe & State of North Carolina being infirm in body but at the same time in my senses & of Sound mind & memory (Blessed be-god) I do hereby ordain & publish this my last will & testament in manner & form following. To wit. First, I give & bequeath unto my beloved wife SELAH WARD forty nine dollars of my money & all my standing & gathered bread grain unto her own proper use & behoof forever. Then I give unto my said wife SELAH, all my Negroes during her natural life time & also all my household furniture & Cloathing & Bedening, with every other article & implement of husbandry & farming utentials, after which then it is my desire that all my Negroes above mentioned named JACK, EFGINE, ESTHER, EMELIA & NANCY go to & I do hereby give & bequeath the said Negroes unto my Son NICODEMUS WARD & his heirs forever all & singular the aforesaid Negroes provided that the said NICODEMUS WARD Shall pay to my son KELLY WARD & DANIEL WARD & my two daughters SELAH WARD & ELIZABETH (Ward scratched through) WEBB four hundred dollars Each. Furthermore it is my desire that I do hereby give & bequeath unto my said wife SELAH all my live Stock, horses, cattle, sheep, hogs & poultry of every description, & also my Still with all my distilling utentials belong there to with all my Books & other moveable & personal property of every description whatever, during her lifetime after which it is my desire that also go to my son NICODEMUS provided that he pay as above mentioned the aforesaid sixteen hundred dollars & lastly I appoint my worthy Son BENJAMIN WARD & Bedent Baird (illegible) the Executors of this my last will & testament. -- In witness where of I BENJAMIN WARD the Testator have herewith set my hand Seal this Eighteenth day of April & year of our Lord one thousand Eight hundred & twenty. -- signed, sealed, published, & declared in the presence of Bedent Baird. Signed BENJAMIN WARD (mark)
Witness: Cutliff Harman [his mark] [Hurt written after it]. John Holsclaw {mark} [Jurat written after it]" "State of No. Carolina, Ashe County, August 1820 Proven in open Court by the oath of BEDANT BAIRD & JOHN HOLSCLAW and ordered to be Registered." Signed by: Thomas Callaughy, Esq.
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A HISTORY OF WATAUGA COUNTY (page 103) discusses Bishop Asbury's Journal and states: "It is generally supposed that this good man (Bishop Asbury) did not travel through Watauga in his trips through these mountains, but the following excerpts show the contrary: 'Monday, April 28, 1788 (after preaching the day before at the Globe on John's River, after getting our horses shod we . . . entered upon the mountains, the first of which I called Steel, the second Stone, and the third Iron Mountain; they are tough and difficult to climb. We were spoken to on our way by most awful thunder and lightning, accompanied by heavy rain. We crept for shelter into a little dirty house, where the filth might have been taken from the floor with a spade. We felt the want of fire, but could get little wood to make it, and what we gathered was wet. At the head of Watauga we fed and reached Ward's that night. [This was probably BEN WARD, whose descendants are among Watauga's best citizens. There is a tradition that while at Ward's the Bishop needed a better light that that afforded by the open fire, and that Ward supplied it by throwing deer bones on the live coals from a heap of all sorts of bones kept in the chimney jamb for that purpose. It is not mentioned in the Journal however.]"
This researcher has found no evidence to date that Benjamin Ward's family was associated with Henderson's Transylvania Company, however his sons began to explore along the Tennessee River at an early date and were involved in Indian trade around Roan, McMinn, and Rhea Counties, Tennessee before the Cherokee Removal of the 1830's. In 1837 some claimed land in Rhea, Meigs, and Roan County, Tennessee. His sons Nicodemus, Kelly, Jesse, and Duke were found living in counties in that region. Dr. William Ward, Benjamin's brother, removed to Rutherford County, Tennessee probably about 1798.
On 21 September 1832 DR. WILLIAM WARD, brother of BENJAMIN WARD of Ashe County, made his will at Rutherford County, Tennessee as follows:
"I WILLIAM WARD of the County of Rutherford and State of Tennessee being of sound mind and memory do make and publish this my last will and testament in this manner and form following: First, it is my will and desire after my death all my estate of every description whatever except the property hereafter given to my nephew THOMPSON WARD should be kept together in the possession of my beloved wife MARY WARD for her use and benefit during her life and at her death to be equally divided and the 1/2 of my said estate when divided I give and bequeath to my said wife MARY WARD to dispose of in any way she may wish at her death. I do also give and bequeath to my nephew THOMPSON WARD son of my brother JAMES WARD seven Negroes as follows. BEN a Negro man I bought of ____, POLLY his wife and her five children namely, COLEMAN, PAUL, MARTHA, ELIZA, and SARAH and all of his future increase to him and his heirs forever. I do also give and bequeath the 1/2 of my property above given to my said wife MARY WARD during her life to be equally divided at her death between my brother JOSHUA WARD'S three daughters, RACHEL, RODY, and SEALY and THOMPSON son of my brother JAMES WARD to them and their heirs forever. I do appoint my beloved wife MARY WARD sole executrix of this my last will and testament, hereby revoking all former wills by me made, It is my will and desire that my said wife shall not give any security as executrix. ___ ___ of ___ hereunto set my hand this 21 day of September in the year of our Lord, 1832."
The Listing of Heirs of DR. WILLIAM WARD appeared in the Rutherford County Chancery Court Minutes Book A page 402 (Books mislabeled Book B is Book A), 10 October 1849, Rutherford Co, TN. Decree relative to the Estate of Dr. William Ward, as follows:
"John Jones Administrator de bonis with the will annexed of WILLIAM WARD, dec'd VS WILLIAM MAJOR, Administrator & Isaiah Robertson & others. Be it remembered that this cause came on for further hearing on the 16th day of October 1849 before Chancellor RIDLEY, upon the report of the Clerk & Master made in pursuance of an Inter___ decree heretofore pronounced in this court directing to take proof & report who are the next of kin to WILLIAM WARD deceased. And it appeared from said report that WILLIAM WARD deceased has 4 brothers of the whole blood namely JAMES WARD, JOSHUA WARD, BENJAMIN WARD, and MICHAEL WARD; that he had one brother of half-blood namely DANIEL WARD; and that he had one sister of the whole blood, namely MARY KENNEDY. It also appears that JAMES WARD died before WILLIAM WARD, that he left children THOMPSON WARD, WILLIAM WARD, AND MARY BAGLEY who were living at the death of WILLIAM WARD; that he left a daughter ELIZABETH LOGAN who died before WILLIAM WARD, leaving six children, namely WILLIAM, JAMES, THOMPSON, CAMPBELL, POLLY ANN and ELIZABETH LOGAN. It appears that JOSHUA WARD died before WILLIAM WARD, leaving a daughter named RACHEL afterwards RACHEL DUNCAN who was living at the death of WILLIAM WARD, and that she is the only child of JOSHUA WARD who is proved to having been living at the death of WILLIAM WARD. It does not appear whether BENJAMIN WARD is living or dead or whether he had children or not. It appears that MICHAEL WARD died many years since, that he left a Son JOSHUA WARD who is now living; and he is proven to have had one or two other children whose names do not appear or whether they are living at the death of WILLIAM WARD, namely WILLIAM WARD, JESSEE WARD, DANIEL WARD, BENJAMIN WARD, JONATHAN WARD, ASA WARD, SAMUEL WARD, ELIZABETH afterwards ELIZABETH MARCUM, SEALY WARD, HAPPY WARD afterwards HAPPY PERDUE and PRUDENCE WARD afterwards PRUDENCE PERDUE, eleven in number. It appears that MARY KENNEDY was living at the death of WILLIAM WARD. And said report being unexcepted to is in all things confirmed. It is therefore ordered adjudged and decreed by the Court. 1st that THOMPSON WARD, WILLIAM WARD & MARY BAGLEY children of JAMES WARD are entitled to one sixth of the lapsed legacies and as to which the said WILLIAM WARD died intestate to be equally divided between them in right of their Father JAMES WARD deceased. 2nd That the children of ELIZABETH LOGAN not being children of a brother or sister of WILLIAM WARD deceased are too remote in blood and take no interest whatever in his estate. 3rd That RACHEL DUNCAN is entitled to one sixth of the lapsed Legacy in right of her father JOSHUA WARD which is in addition to her legacy to which it has been heretofore decided she was entitled under the Will of WILLIAM WARD the legacy under the WILL being one fourth of one half of the entire estate. 4th That BENJAMIN WARD is entitled, if living to one sixth of the lapsed legacies and if dead, leaving children , they are entitled in his room & stead. 5th That JOSHUA WARD is entitled to one sixth of the lapsed legacies in his right of his father MICHAEL WARD deceased. 6th That the aforesaid children and heirs of DANIEL WARD are entitled to one sixth of said lapsed legacies in right of their said father DANIEL WARD deceased, to be equally divided between them. 7th That MARY KENNEDY is entitled to one sixth of the lapsed legacies. 8th It appearing to the Court that MARY KENNEDY sold and conveyed her interest in the estate of said WILLIAM WARD deceased to CHARLES DEMENT, it is ordered adjudged and decreed that the Clerk & Master pay over her distributive share to the legal representatives or attorney of the said Charles Dement. 9th It is ordered adjudged & decreed that the Clerk & Master pay over the distributive shares to the other persons entitled as herein declared and in the proportions to which they are respectfully entitled or to their legal representatives. 10th It is further ordered adjudged & decreed that the Clerk & Master proceed to collect the funds belong to said estate and which are to be distributed as aforesaid as fast as practicable and pay over the same to the persons entitled as herein declared; and that he make report of his progress therein to the next term of the Court. (10 October 1849, Rutherford Co, TN)
On 29 April 1852 the Rutherford County, Tennessee Court distributed the estate of Dr. William Ward as follows: "Be it remembered that this cause came on for hearing before the Hon. R. L. Ridley on this 29th day of April 1852 upon petition filed at the last term of this court & upon the report of the Clerk & Master made at the present term which report is in the words and figures following to wit: KELLY WARD & Others ,Ex-Partee
The Rutherford Co., TN Court Records prove that Benjamin Ward's siblings were: (1) MICHAEL WARD who had a son JOSHUA; (2) JAMES WARD who had children THOMPSON WARD, WILLIAM WARD, MARY WARD, ELIZABETH WARD; (3) OBEDIENCE WARD who married MR. CANADAY or KENNEDY; JOSHUA WARD who had daughters RHODA, RACHEL, and CELIA; (4) DR. WM. WARD of Rutherford Co., TN; (5) DANIEL WARD (half-brother of Franklin County, V\a circa 1765-1826) had 13 children. No record search has been done to determine if the remaining three ninths share was ever paid to the heirs of Duke Ward, Mrs. Susan Webb, and Mrs. Celia Marlow or to the living heirs of Benjamin Ward.
The Ward Family Record of MARY LORENA HANSARD WILSON establishes that BENJAMIN WARD, son of RICHARD & FRANCES WARD, was the father of DANIEL WARD, the half-brother of BENJAMIN WARD of Ashe County, NC. Dr. WILLIAM WARD's probate records in Rutherford County establish that BENJAMIN WARD fathered BENJAMIN WARD of this record. The Ward Family Record was passed down from DANIEL WARD, half-brother of Benjamin Ward, to his daughter ELIZABETH WARD MARCUM, to her granddaughter, MARY ANN HANSARD, grandmother of MARY LORENA HANSARD WILSON of Sweetwater, Tennessee. The document was in Lorena Wilson's hands until the last period of her life. This researcher obtained this information from Virginia Smith, who" visited with Lorena Wilson in about 1980" and who "was allowed to photocopy the document." Mrs. Smith kindly provided a copy to me.
In 1777 BENJAMIN WARD first appears on the Washington Co.,TN Lists of Taxables documented by tax collector, Valentine Sevier, Sheriff, Dr. to the County Court of Washington Co., NC.. His property valuation was L356.10.0; he paid L3.12.0 in taxes. His brother, WILLIAM WARD, was listed on page 4, assessed by Henry Lyle, Samuel Henry & William McNabb and returned to Jno. McNabb, Esq. WILLIAM WARD paid taxes of 1.16.10 1/2]. He had an Estate of 154.12.0 paid taxes of 1.12.9 [Washington Co., TN List of Taxables 1778-1801; Compiled by Mary Hardin McCown, Nancy E. Jones Stickley, and Inez E. Burns.] Additionally JOSHUA CURTIS , father-in-law of Benjamin's son, Daniel, appeared on this list.
The 1778 tax records for Washington Co., NC Taxables indicate BENJAMIN WARD was the neighbor of DAVID HIX (Hicks) Sr. owner of 153 pounds worth of property evaluation and the Asher Family (Charles, Thomas, and William) on the upper portions of the Watauga River around the area later known as Shull's Mill. (On page 7 of the assessments of Benjamin Cobb, Solomon Smith, William Asher and returned to John Chisolm, Esq. appears Demsey Ward, Estate of 171.10.3 and Taxes paid of 1.15.3. No proof to date that Demsey Ward is related to Benjamin Ward.)
In 1779 Benjamin Ward did not appear on the 1779 List of Taxables, Return made by Thomas Houghton, Esquire for 1779 of Washington County, NC to receive the same with proprietors names delivering the same on oath, as also, the Assessment thereon for the year of 1779. The assessors were Matthew Talbot, Sr,. Andrew Taylor, and Clevias Barksdill. WILLIAM WARD was assessed for one site of 250 acres valued at 250. Property included 3 horses valued at 350; 7 cattle valued at 70; ready money of 21.2.8; total value, 691.2.8 current money.
North Carolina Land Grants in Tennessee 1778-1791 stipulate: BENJAMIN WARD filed land grant # 807 for 300 acres on South side of Watauga opposite Cove Creek in Washington Co., TN (later part of Watauga Co., NC). Again in 1789 BENJAMIN WARD filed 300 acre land grant # 861 for land on the South side Watauga opposite the mouth of Cove Creek in Washington Co., NC. (TN State Library, Carter Co. Grants Roll # 15, Book 4, page 468 and Roll # 17, Book 6, page 272, Carter Co. Grants)
BENJAMIN WARD was named a commissioner, along with Robert White, Edward Williams, William Moore, John Hammer, Robert Love, and William Priestly -- merely to select a site for the seat of justice of Washington County, NC in the lost state of Franklin. North Carolina Senator Tipton sought to punish the town of Jonesborough for the attitude of its citizens in the August election by introducing a bill to remove the seat of justice of Washington County. (NC State Records, X VIII, 112.) Excerpt from HISTORY OF THE LOST STATE OF FRANKLIN (Samuel Cole Williams, 1924, The Watauga Press, Johnson City, TN; PP 114-115).
In 1790 BEN WARD and JOSH WARD appear as Heads of Families in the First Federal Census, for Companies 8, 10, & 16, later taken from Wilkes Co. to make Ashe Co. NC in 1799. In the 8th Company BEN WARD had 2 free while males over age 16 (born bef. 1774), 4 white males under age 16 (born 1774-1790), 3 free white females, and 1 slave. JOSH WARD lists 1 free white male over 16 (born bef 1774), 2 free white males under 16 (born 1774-1790), 2 free white females, and no slaves. In 1790 and 1799 JOSH WARD appeared in the Wilkes Co., NC Census records. Ashe was formed from Wilkes County. In 1799 he appeared in the 8th company with 1-2-2-0 persons and possessions. Rutherford County Court Records state that Dr. William Ward had a brother named JOSHUA WARD, thereby proving Josh Ward to be brother to Benjamin Ward of Ashe County, NC.
On 23 October 1792 BENJAMIN WARD and EZEKIEL BAIRD were named executors of the will of DAVID HIX, probated 23 April 1793. David Hix was of Washington County, NC. [Wilkes County, North Carolina Will Abstracts for 1777-1910, number 347]
On 6 May 1795 at the Wilkes Co. NC, Court (Court Minutes Vol. 14, 19) BENJAMIN WARD, William Whittenton, Thomas Linville, Jr., Joseph Moss, Samuel Hicks, George Davis, Shadrick Estop, Lewis Stephens, Ezekial Baird, David Curtis, James Holesclaw, Federick Shull, Simon Shull, Joseph White, George Smith, Baker King, Chesley Coffey were ordered to view whether lands entered by (blank) Cunningham to be fit or not for cultivation.
In 1800 BENJAMIN WARD, DUKE WARD [son of Benjamin], and THOMAS WARD [relationship unknown] appeared in the census for Ashe Co., NC as follows:
BENJAMIN WARD: 4 males to 10 years [4 sons born between 1790-1800]
1 male 16 to 26 years [son born between 1774-1784]
1 male 26 to 45 years [son born between 1755-1784, probably Daniel)] (Ben married in 1774)
1 male 45 or over [Benjamin born before 1755]
2 females 10 - 16 years [daughters Selah & Elizabeth 1784-1790]
1 female 45 or over [Selah born before 1755]
1 slave
DUKE WARD: 1 male 16 to 26 years [born between 1774-1784]
1 female 16 to 26 years [born between 1774-1784]
THOMAS WARD: 1 male 10 to 16 years [born 1784-1790]
1 male 26 to 45 years [[Thomas, born 1755-1784]
1 female to 10 years [daughter born 1790-1800]
1 female 10 to 16 years [daughter born 1784-1790]
1 female 16 - 26 years [daughter born 1774-1784]
1 female 45 or over [woman born before 1755]
(Thomas Ward is probably THOMPSON WARD, nephew of BENJAMIN WARD, & son of JAMES & ELIZABETH WARD who removed to Kentucky.)
LAND ENTRIES IN ASHE COUNTY, NC: February 1800 - June 1809 LISTING BENJAMIN WARD:
1801 Tax List, Washington Co., TN Records: BENJAMIN WARD, listed by assessor James Maulding.
(David Curtis appears on the on same list.)
November 11, 1801, Page 127, # 503: DUKE WARDE enters 25 acres in Ashe County; border: begins on BENJAMIN WARD's North line on Wattauger River; includes the vacant land.
February 8, 1802, Page 145, # 577: BENJAMIN WARD enters 50 acres in Ashe County on Wattauger River border: begins on my own line: includes the "good" vacant land "their abouts".
February 8, 1802, Page 146, # 580: BENJAMIN WARD enters 50 acres in Ashe County on Wattauger River; border: begins on "the" river bank at a pine marked "B W" and runs down said river; includes my "shuger" camp and vacant land "their abouts".
May 8, 1802. Page 168, # 667: BENJAMIN WARD enters 25 acres in Ashe County on South side of Wattauger River; border: begins at a "swomp: dogwood "saplen" marked " B W" on "the" bank of said river, runs down the river to said Ward's "old" grant land & South on said Ward's line; includes the "good" vacant land "their abouts."
August 7, 1802, Page 186, # 740: BENJAMIN WARD enters 50 acres in Ashe County on South side of Watauger River; border: begins at a "swamp" dogwood "saplen" branded "B W" on "the" bank of said river, runs down said river to said Ward's old grant line, & runs South with said Ward's line; includes the "good" vacant land "their abouts."
August 7, 1802, Page 186, # 741: BENJAMIN WARD enters 50 acres in Ashe County on South side of Watauger River; border: begins on bank of said river above mouth of Lorrel Creek, runs down said river, & up both sides of said creek; includes said Ward's mill seat on said creek.
August 7, 1802, Page 186, # 742: BENJAMIN WARD enters 50 acres in Ashe County on North side of Watauger River; border: begins at Ward's old grant linebelow mouth of Cove Creek & runs "various courses"; includes the "good" land and runs on said old grant land to said Ward's new survey line.
August 7, 1802, Page 187, # 743: DANIEL WARD enters 50 acres in Ashe County on North side of Watauger River; border: begins on a sycamore [or syckamore] branded "D W", runs North on BEN WARD's old grant line, West, & joins BEN WARD's new survey; includes the "good" vacant land.
November 11, 1802, Page 127, # 505: DUKE WARDE enters 25 acres in Ashe County on "the" bank of Wattauger River: border: begins near BENJAMIN WARD's North line.
February 7, 1803, Page 233, # 884: BENJAMIN WARD enters 50 acres in Ashe County on a branch of Cove Creek; border: begins at North corner of a conditional line made between said WARD & CUTLER HARMON and runs "various courses"; includes the vacant land "their abouts".
6 DECEMBER 1803, Ashe Co., NC Court Records, Book B, page 133: North Carolina State Land Grant of 50 Acres to BENJAMIN WARD: "The State of North Carolina No. 426. To all whoseoever these presents shall come greeting known we that we for and in consideration of the sum of fifty shillings for every hundred acres hereby granted paid into our treasury by BENJAMIN WARD herein given and granted and by these presents do give and grant unto the said BENJAMIN WARD a tract of land containing fifty acres lying and being in the County of Ashe on the South side of the Watauger River on a Swamp Dogwood and a Locust in SAMUEL BAKER's line and runs down the river as it meanders to a Buckeye and a Hickory near the old crossing thence South with his old grant line twenty two polls to a stake then East with said line forty polls to a hicary then south one hundred polls to a stake then East fifty polls to a stake thence North with Samuel Baker's line to the Beginning. Entered the 7th of August 1802 as the plat hereunto assessed doth appear together with all woods waters mines minerals here accoutrements and appurtenances to the said lease belonging or appertaining to hold to the said BENJAMIN WARD, his heirs and assigns forever yielding and paying to us such sums of money yearly or otherwise as our general assembly from time to time may direct provided always that the said grantee shall cause the grant to be registered in the Register office of our said County of Ashe within twelve months from the date thereof otherwise the same shall be void on testimony whereof we have caused these our letters to be made Patent and our great seal to be hereunto affixed, witnesses JAMES TURNER Esq. our governor captain general and commander in Chief at Raleigh the 6th day of December in the 28th year of our independence and in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and three. By command J. Turner, received in the secretary's office. Wm. White, Sec. D. Caswell, J. Sec.
June 17, 1807, Page 32, # 1757: ELIJAH KILBOURN enters 100 acres in Ashe County on head of Rock House Bridge, on Beaver dam Ridge, & on waters of Rush Branch; includes the dead timber that the old road "goes through" that goes "up" from BEN WARD's to Ben Web's.
November 4, 1813, Page 11, # 2623: BENJAMIN WARD enters 50 acres in Ashe County; border: begins at a white oak near "between" BEN WARD & Richard White's old line on North side of Cove Creek and runs down the creek with his old line; includes the vacant land down "as far as" DAVID WARD's (sic DANIEL WARD) line and runs "various courses."
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August, 1806 BENJAMIN WARD served on a grand jury in the court in Ashe County; others were Thomas Calloway (foreman); David Birely, Henry Graybeal, Andrew Sheets, John Estep, William May, Willie Pennington, J. L. Weaver, William Snow, Daniel Hopper, Carter Whittenton, Samuel Phipps, & James Lewis. [Source: Ashe County: A History; Arthur L. Fletcher; Ashe Co Research Assn. NC; Jefferson, NC; p 80.0]
In 1810 BENJAMIN WARD lived in Ashe Co., NC and also in 1820. In 1820 he Ashe County, North Carolina Census records showed the following:
BENJAMINE WARD: 3-1-1-1-1-0 4-2-0-1-0 (14 in household]
DUKE WARD: 5-4-0-0-0-1 2-2-0-0-1 [15 in household]
JAMES WARD: 1-0-0-1-0-0 1-0-1-0-0 [4 in household]
LELAH WARD (Prob. Selah): 0-0-1-1-0-0 0-0-0-0-1 [3 in household]
April 17, 1820: Land Records, Book F, page 30, Register, Court, Ashe Co., NC
"BENJAMIN WARD Deed to JAMES WARD, 130 acres. This Indenture made this 17th day of April 1820 between BENJAMIN WARD, SR.. of the one part, and JAMES WARD of the other part, both of the County of Ashe and State of North Carolina witnesseth that for and in consideration of the sum of one hundred and ninety dollars to him in hand paid at and before the sealing to these presents, the receipt whereof he doth acknowledge, hat granted, bargained, and sold, and by these presents doth grant, bargain and sell unto him the said JAMES WARD a tract of land containing one hundred and thirty acres to the same more or less, Beginning at a Service tree at the mouth of a small branch on the Bank of Wattauger River running south along a marked line to the old grant line, thence East along said line until it intersects a line of fifty acres the state granted to the said BENJAMIN WARD by this State, thence along round the fifty acre tract the various courses to a swamp dogwood and locust tree on the Bank of the River, thence down the Bank of the River to the Beginning with every right, title, privilege, and emolument thereunto belonging or appertaining unto him the said JAMES WARD his heirs, executors or administrators forever against all lawful claim or demand In witness whereof he had hereunto set his hand and seal the day and date first above written. BENJAMIN WARD, Seal
Witnesses: Bedent Baird Jr; Martin Wilbourn, Thomas Curtis
North Carolina, May Term 1820 within deed was produced in Ashe Co. Open Court by Bedent Baird in order to be registered.
Ashe Count, NC Deed Book 4:386 17th day of April 1820.
BENJAMIN WARD SR, of Ashe to BENJAMIN WARD JR. . . for one hundred and ninety dollars ($190) in hand paid by Ben. Ward J
April 17, 1820: Land Records, Book F, Page 395, Register, Ashe Co,, NC
BENJAMIN WARD Deed to JESSEE WARD, 50 acres. This Indenture made the Seventeenth day of April 1820 between Benjamin Ward of the one part and Jessee Ward of the other, both of the County of Ashe and State of North Carolina Witnesseth, that for and in consideration of the sum of one hundred and ninety dollars to him in hand paid at and before the sealing of these presents, the receipt whereof he doeth acknowledge, hath granted, bargained, and sold and by these presents doth grant bargain, * sail and confirm unto him the said Jessee a tract of land, containing by supposition fifty acres be the same more or less. Beginning at a marked Hickory tree on the Bank of Cove Creek near the mouth of a small branch below the old house, running up the meanders of the branch to the old grant line, thence along said old granted line to where Duke Ward's line intersects & thence west along said line to the Bank of Cove Creek, thence down the Bank of said creek to the beginning with every right, title, privilege, and emolument thereunto belonging or appertaining unto him the said JESSE WARD his heirs, executors, and administrators, well and truly to warrant and forever defend the aforesaid dismisses from all just claims or claims of any person or persons whatsoever in witness he hatch hereunto set his hand and seal the day and date first above written. BENJAMIN WARD (his mark & seal). Witnesses: Bedant Beard, Martin Wilberin, THOMAS CURTIS.
April 18, 1820: LAST WILL & TESTAMENT of BENJAMIN WARD
Dated 18 April 1820; Proved in Open Court, August Court, 1820, Ashe County, NC; recorded in Will Book , page 20, 1820, Ashe County, NC (filed in North Carolina State Archives).
"In the name of god Amen. I BENJAMIN WARD of the County of Ashe & State of North Carolina being infirm in body but at the same time in my senses & of Sound mind & memory (Blessed be-god) I do hereby ordain & publish this my last will & testament in manner & form following. To wit. First, I give & bequeath unto my beloved wife SELAH WARD forty nine dollars of my money & all my standing & gathered bread grain unto her own proper use & behoof forever. Then I give unto my said wife SELAH, all my Negroes during her natural life time & also all my household furniture & Cloathing & Bedening, with every other article & implement of husbandry & farming utentials, after which then it is my desire that all my Negroes above mentioned named JACK, EFGINE, ESTHER, EMELIA & NANCY go to & I do hereby give & bequeath the said Negroes unto my Son NICODEMUS WARD & his heirs forever all & singular the aforesaid Negroes provided that the said NICODEMUS WARD Shall pay to my son KELLY WARD & DANIEL WARD & my two daughters SELAH WARD & ELIZABETH (Ward scratched through) WEBB four hundred dollars Each. Furthermore it is my desire that I do hereby give & bequeath unto my said wife SELAH all my live Stock, horses, cattle, sheep, hogs & poultry of every description, & also my Still with all my distilling utentials belong there to with all my Books & other moveable & personal property of every description whatever, during her lifetime after which it is my desire that also go to my son NICODEMUS provided that he pay as above mentioned the aforesaid sixteen hundred dollars & lastly I appoint my worthy Son BENJAMIN WARD & Bedent Baird (illegible) the Executors of this my last will & testament. -- In witness where of I BENJAMIN WARD the Testator have herewith set my hand Seal this Eighteenth day of April & year of our Lord one thousand Eight hundred & twenty. -- signed, sealed, published, & declared in the presence of Bedent Baird. Signed BENJAMIN WARD (mark)
Witness: Cutliff Harman [his mark] [Hurt written after it]. John Holsclaw {mark} [Jurat written after it]" "State of No. Carolina, Ashe County, August 1820 Proven in open Court by the oath of BEDANT BAIRD & JOHN HOLSCLAW and ordered to be Registered." Signed by: Thomas Callaughy, Esq.
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A HISTORY OF WATAUGA COUNTY (page 103) discusses Bishop Asbury's Journal and states: "It is generally supposed that this good man (Bishop Asbury) did not travel through Watauga in his trips through these mountains, but the following excerpts show the contrary: 'Monday, April 28, 1788 (after preaching the day before at the Globe on John's River, after getting our horses shod we . . . entered upon the mountains, the first of which I called Steel, the second Stone, and the third Iron Mountain; they are tough and difficult to climb. We were spoken to on our way by most awful thunder and lightning, accompanied by heavy rain. We crept for shelter into a little dirty house, where the filth might have been taken from the floor with a spade. We felt the want of fire, but could get little wood to make it, and what we gathered was wet. At the head of Watauga we fed and reached Ward's that night. [This was probably BEN WARD, whose descendants are among Watauga's best citizens. There is a tradition that while at Ward's the Bishop needed a better light that that afforded by the open fire, and that Ward supplied it by throwing deer bones on the live coals from a heap of all sorts of bones kept in the chimney jamb for that purpose. It is not mentioned in the Journal however.]"
This researcher has found no evidence to date that Benjamin Ward's family was associated with Henderson's Transylvania Company, however his sons began to explore along the Tennessee River at an early date and were involved in Indian trade around Roan, McMinn, and Rhea Counties, Tennessee before the Cherokee Removal of the 1830's. In 1837 some claimed land in Rhea, Meigs, and Roan County, Tennessee. His sons Nicodemus, Kelly, Jesse, and Duke were found living in counties in that region. Dr. William Ward, Benjamin's brother, removed to Rutherford County, Tennessee probably about 1798.
On 21 September 1832 DR. WILLIAM WARD, brother of BENJAMIN WARD of Ashe County, made his will at Rutherford County, Tennessee as follows:
"I WILLIAM WARD of the County of Rutherford and State of Tennessee being of sound mind and memory do make and publish this my last will and testament in this manner and form following: First, it is my will and desire after my death all my estate of every description whatever except the property hereafter given to my nephew THOMPSON WARD should be kept together in the possession of my beloved wife MARY WARD for her use and benefit during her life and at her death to be equally divided and the 1/2 of my said estate when divided I give and bequeath to my said wife MARY WARD to dispose of in any way she may wish at her death. I do also give and bequeath to my nephew THOMPSON WARD son of my brother JAMES WARD seven Negroes as follows. BEN a Negro man I bought of ____, POLLY his wife and her five children namely, COLEMAN, PAUL, MARTHA, ELIZA, and SARAH and all of his future increase to him and his heirs forever. I do also give and bequeath the 1/2 of my property above given to my said wife MARY WARD during her life to be equally divided at her death between my brother JOSHUA WARD'S three daughters, RACHEL, RODY, and SEALY and THOMPSON son of my brother JAMES WARD to them and their heirs forever. I do appoint my beloved wife MARY WARD sole executrix of this my last will and testament, hereby revoking all former wills by me made, It is my will and desire that my said wife shall not give any security as executrix. ___ ___ of ___ hereunto set my hand this 21 day of September in the year of our Lord, 1832."
The Listing of Heirs of DR. WILLIAM WARD appeared in the Rutherford County Chancery Court Minutes Book A page 402 (Books mislabeled Book B is Book A), 10 October 1849, Rutherford Co, TN. Decree relative to the Estate of Dr. William Ward, as follows:
"John Jones Administrator de bonis with the will annexed of WILLIAM WARD, dec'd VS WILLIAM MAJOR, Administrator & Isaiah Robertson & others. Be it remembered that this cause came on for further hearing on the 16th day of October 1849 before Chancellor RIDLEY, upon the report of the Clerk & Master made in pursuance of an Inter___ decree heretofore pronounced in this court directing to take proof & report who are the next of kin to WILLIAM WARD deceased. And it appeared from said report that WILLIAM WARD deceased has 4 brothers of the whole blood namely JAMES WARD, JOSHUA WARD, BENJAMIN WARD, and MICHAEL WARD; that he had one brother of half-blood namely DANIEL WARD; and that he had one sister of the whole blood, namely MARY KENNEDY. It also appears that JAMES WARD died before WILLIAM WARD, that he left children THOMPSON WARD, WILLIAM WARD, AND MARY BAGLEY who were living at the death of WILLIAM WARD; that he left a daughter ELIZABETH LOGAN who died before WILLIAM WARD, leaving six children, namely WILLIAM, JAMES, THOMPSON, CAMPBELL, POLLY ANN and ELIZABETH LOGAN. It appears that JOSHUA WARD died before WILLIAM WARD, leaving a daughter named RACHEL afterwards RACHEL DUNCAN who was living at the death of WILLIAM WARD, and that she is the only child of JOSHUA WARD who is proved to having been living at the death of WILLIAM WARD. It does not appear whether BENJAMIN WARD is living or dead or whether he had children or not. It appears that MICHAEL WARD died many years since, that he left a Son JOSHUA WARD who is now living; and he is proven to have had one or two other children whose names do not appear or whether they are living at the death of WILLIAM WARD, namely WILLIAM WARD, JESSEE WARD, DANIEL WARD, BENJAMIN WARD, JONATHAN WARD, ASA WARD, SAMUEL WARD, ELIZABETH afterwards ELIZABETH MARCUM, SEALY WARD, HAPPY WARD afterwards HAPPY PERDUE and PRUDENCE WARD afterwards PRUDENCE PERDUE, eleven in number. It appears that MARY KENNEDY was living at the death of WILLIAM WARD. And said report being unexcepted to is in all things confirmed. It is therefore ordered adjudged and decreed by the Court. 1st that THOMPSON WARD, WILLIAM WARD & MARY BAGLEY children of JAMES WARD are entitled to one sixth of the lapsed legacies and as to which the said WILLIAM WARD died intestate to be equally divided between them in right of their Father JAMES WARD deceased. 2nd That the children of ELIZABETH LOGAN not being children of a brother or sister of WILLIAM WARD deceased are too remote in blood and take no interest whatever in his estate. 3rd That RACHEL DUNCAN is entitled to one sixth of the lapsed Legacy in right of her father JOSHUA WARD which is in addition to her legacy to which it has been heretofore decided she was entitled under the Will of WILLIAM WARD the legacy under the WILL being one fourth of one half of the entire estate. 4th That BENJAMIN WARD is entitled, if living to one sixth of the lapsed legacies and if dead, leaving children , they are entitled in his room & stead. 5th That JOSHUA WARD is entitled to one sixth of the lapsed legacies in his right of his father MICHAEL WARD deceased. 6th That the aforesaid children and heirs of DANIEL WARD are entitled to one sixth of said lapsed legacies in right of their said father DANIEL WARD deceased, to be equally divided between them. 7th That MARY KENNEDY is entitled to one sixth of the lapsed legacies. 8th It appearing to the Court that MARY KENNEDY sold and conveyed her interest in the estate of said WILLIAM WARD deceased to CHARLES DEMENT, it is ordered adjudged and decreed that the Clerk & Master pay over her distributive share to the legal representatives or attorney of the said Charles Dement. 9th It is ordered adjudged & decreed that the Clerk & Master pay over the distributive shares to the other persons entitled as herein declared and in the proportions to which they are respectfully entitled or to their legal representatives. 10th It is further ordered adjudged & decreed that the Clerk & Master proceed to collect the funds belong to said estate and which are to be distributed as aforesaid as fast as practicable and pay over the same to the persons entitled as herein declared; and that he make report of his progress therein to the next term of the Court. (10 October 1849, Rutherford Co, TN)
On 29 April 1852 the Rutherford County, Tennessee Court distributed the estate of Dr. William Ward as follows: "Be it remembered that this cause came on for hearing before the Hon. R. L. Ridley on this 29th day of April 1852 upon petition filed at the last term of this court & upon the report of the Clerk & Master made at the present term which report is in the words and figures following to wit: KELLY WARD & Others ,Ex-Partee
The Rutherford Co., TN Court Records prove that Benjamin Ward's siblings were: (1) MICHAEL WARD who had a son JOSHUA; (2) JAMES WARD who had children THOMPSON WARD, WILLIAM WARD, MARY WARD, ELIZABETH WARD; (3) OBEDIENCE WARD who married MR. CANADAY or KENNEDY; JOSHUA WARD who had daughters RHODA, RACHEL, and CELIA; (4) DR. WM. WARD of Rutherford Co., TN; (5) DANIEL WARD (half-brother of Franklin County, V\a circa 1765-1826) had 13 children. No record search has been done to determine if the remaining three ninths share was ever paid to the heirs of Duke Ward, Mrs. Susan Webb, and Mrs. Celia Marlow or to the living heirs of Benjamin Ward.
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