Updated December 23, 2023
Background
Cumberland County was formed from Goochland County by an act of the Virginia Assembly in 1749 and named for the Duke of Cumberland, second son of King George II. On April 22, 1776, Cumberland led the Colonies in calling for independence from Britain. This is recorded as the first positive call for American Independence issued by a governmental body.
Parishes
King William Parish, 1749-1777
Littleton Parish, 1772
Saint James Southam, 1749-1777
Overview
Three groups of GILLIAMs settled around the mid 1750's along the Branches of the Willis River in Cumberland County: James GILLIAM, Sr. (1712-1774) and his son John GILLIAM ( -1768); John GILLIAM ( - bef 1779), the husband of Susannah Richardson, and Epaphroditus GILLIAM. Since each settled on the Branches of the Willis around the same time, it has been assumed that the three groups are related. It appears that John, the husband of Susannah Richardson, is the brother of Epaphroditus, since Epaphroditus serves as his executor. It appears that James GILLIAM, Sr., is a first cousin of John and Epaphroditus, all being "New Kent GILLIAMs."
Further evidence that John who married Susannah Richardson is of New Kent is that Richardson and GILLIAMs are noted together in the patent of (Thomas Barbar, 363 acs. 16 Jun 1714 (Escheat L.) Thomas Taylor; lines of GILLAM, Richardson; & Hockaday; up Perrins Sw. to the mouth. Escheated from Mary Horseington, by inquisition under Philip Ludwell, Esqr., for 500 acs. Survey returned by Valentine Minge).
It should be noted that it has been said that John GILLIAM, the husband of Sarah Faris, and father of James GILLIAM who married Frances Hopkins, was also a native of Cumberland. However, it appears that this John and James have been confused with the above residents of the Branches of the Willis. It can be shown that John GILLIAM who married Sarah Faris lived in Dover Parish, Goochland County, and that their son, James lived in Prince Edward County.
Robert GILLIAM, grandson of James GILLIAM, Sr., per the Will of James GILLIAM dated 1774, sells the land James bequeaths him on Cannon's Branch in 1797 to John Sandidige. In 1799, a Robert GILLIAM of Jackson County, GA sells to Robert Taylor of Powhatan a slave, Peter, he purchased of John Sandridge. It appears that Robert GILLIAM of Cumberland removed to Jackson County, GA. [Robert Taylor is the uncle of Robert GILLIAM.]
"Agreements"
Nash Family Papers, 1734-1889
Agreement, 1819, of Benjamin Bransford and Joseph Hobson (as guardian of Ellen W. (Nash) French and Thomas Nash [1810-1871]) with Hugh French and Lucy L. (Hobson) Nash French (and as administrator and administratrix of Thomas Nash [d. 1816]) concerning land in Cumberland County, Va. (bears arbitrators' [i.e., John GILLIAM and James McLaurine] report).
Virginia Historical Society, Mss1 N1786 a 8237-8240
Census
1820 Census of Manufacturers
GILLIAM, Thornton & Co
Cumberland County, VA
[This index of 11,636 entries does not include every head-of-household; it is an index to every manufacturing business that provided information.]
Chancery Causes
GILLIAMs mentioned in Cumberland Chancery Suits
March Term 1851
Carter M. Giiliam
vs
Everard Carter and William L. Toler administrators de bonis non with the Will annexed of Jesse Carter decd and in their own right and others
On the motion of John A. Hudgins by his counsel, leave is given him to file his answer in this cause upon condition that it does not delay the trial of the same which answer was accordingly filed and to which the Plaintiff replied generally and on motion of the Plaintiff by his counsel leave is given him to file an amended bill in this cuase and it is ordered that this cause be continued until the next term.
Cumberland County, VA, Chancery Orders, 1831-1851, page 542.
Civil War
Carter M. GILLIAM
Regiment Name 18 Virginia Infantry.
Side Confederate
Company E
Soldier's Rank In Private
Soldier's Rank Out 1 Sergeant
Film Number M38, roll 21
18th Regiment, Virginia Infantry
[18th Infantry Regiment completed its organization in May, 1861. Its members were recruited at Danville and Farmville, and in the counties of Nottoway, Cumberland, Prince Edward, Appomattox, Pittsylvania, and Charlotte.]
[Carter M. GILLIAM has also been indexed as Carter W. GILLIAM. Carter is the son of Charles Manning GILLIAM and Elizabeth A. Carter]
Court Orders
Court Orders 1749-1764
Court Orders 1767-1884
Bacon vs. Mannin
January Court 1812
John Gilliam and Catharine James vs
Sherwood Cocke
It appearing to the satisfaction of the Court that the defendant Cocke an absent defendant is not an inhabitant of this state on motion of the plaintiff by their counsil ordered that the defendant Cocke do appear here on the 1st day of next April Court to be held for this county and give security for performing the decree of this court and that a copy of this order be inserted for two months successively in some one of the newspapers printed in the city of Richmond and another copy posted at the front door of the courthouse of this county.
Cumberland County, VA, Order Book 1811-1815, page 64
[Sherwood appears in the 1810 Cumberland Census. He is listed near Archibald Taylor, son of Judith Gilliam Taylor.]
Deeds
15 Sep 1747
George Carrington deeds for 17.10 to John & David Pryor, sons of David Pryor deceased, 250 acres, land falling in Goochland and Albemarle. bounded by Phineas Glover, Isaac Bates, Abraham Childres & Richard Taylor
[See Deeds of 1763 and 1764 below,Athis land is later found in Cumberland County.]
Goochland County, VA, Deed Book 5, page 323
22 Jan 1759
From Samuel Taylor of the county of Cumberland to John Meadors of the same county for 50 lbs., about 305 A. on the branches of Mill Branch in the county aforesaid, and part of a tract of land granted to Richard Taylor by patent dated August 20, 1745 containing 1200 A., and the said 305 A. of land is bounded southerly by the said Samuel Taylor, westerly by James GILLIAM, northerly by James Daniel and easterly by land belonging to the estate of James Nevel, deceased, and Philip Mayo.
Signed . . . Sam'l Taylor (Tayler).
Witnesses. Micajah Turner, Jesse Meador, Jonas Meador.
At January 22, Court, this deed was acknowledged by Samuel Taylor, party thereto and by the Court ordered to be recorded.
Cumberland County, VA, Deed Book 2, page 449
23 Apr 1759
George Carrington to James GILLIAM
£74, 371 acres Bounded by Geo. Carrington, David Pryor, Wm. Rowlane, John Prior, Samuel Taylor part of larger tract of 5660 acres granted by patent 26 July 1755 to Geo. Carrington.
Cumberland County, VA, Deed Book 2, page 46523 Apr 1759
Samuel Taylor Cumberland to James GILLIAM Cumberland 5 lb. 29 Ac. part of a larger tract of 1200a granted to Richard Taylor father of the sd. Samuel Taylor by patent on 20 Aug 1745.
Cumberland County, VA, Deed Book 2, page 46624 Sept 1759
from George Carrington of the county of Cumberland, to Samuel Taylor of the same county for 12 lbs., 10 sh., one certain tract of land in Cumberland County, containing about 51 A., part of a tract of 5650 A. patented to the said George Carrington on March 1, 1743, and the 51 A. is bounded by James GILLIAM, Cannon's Branch, the said George Carrington.
No Witnesses.
Cumberland County, VA, Deed Book 2, page 516
Summary of 1759 Deeds
7 Aug 1761, Lunenburg County
William Anglin, 94 acs.
Lunenburgh C., Beg. On the N side of Smith’s Riv. Opposite the Mouth of Bowings Cr.; 10 Shill.
[Regranted to James GILLIAM in Halifax County Patent Book 34]
Cavaliers and Pioneers, VI, 155
7 Aug 1761, Halifax County
James GILLIAM, 94 acs. 7 Aug 1761
Halifax Co. on both sides of Smith’s Rive & down Bowings Cr., 10 Shill, Whereas by pat 12 Feb. 1755 gtd. William Anglin then in Lunenburgh Co. now Halifax and whereas William Anglin hath failed to pay Quitrents and to make Cultiv. & Improv. And James GILLIAM hath made humble suit and obtained a G. for the same,
Cavaliers and Pioneers, VI, 414
[This James is James GILLIAM, Sr., of Cumberland, for when this tract is sold, this James GILLIAM is referred to as "James GILLIAM of county of Cumberland." See below.]
5 Jul 1763
John Prior of Cumberland Co sold to Samuel Taylor, 125 acres for £65. "whereas George Carrington did convey to the said John Prior and to David Prior 250 acres" the land in Cumberland on Mary Gwinns Branch or Taylors Creek. John and David Prior were joint tenants, and John's part of the land bounded by Abraham Childers, Junior, Daniel Jones & Samuel Taylor.
Cumberland County, VA, Deed Book 3, page 398
27 Dec 1764
David Pryior of Albemarle sold to Samuel Taylor the other 125 acres, on Mary Gwinns Branch or Taylors Creek. bounded by Hezekiah Davidson, James GILLIAM, Joseph Calvert, Drury Woodson, John Bates and Samuel Taylor.
Wit: Phineas Glover, Hezekiah Davidson, Wm Burnet, John Glover, Joseph Taylor.
[This tract of land joined with the one mentioned in the deed above dated 5 Jul 1763 form the 250 acres purchased by Carrington in 1747.]
Cumberland County, VA, Deed Book 4, page 17
23 Jun 1766
Drury Woodson from Phineas Glover, 64 acres in Cumberland County bounded by lands of Jas. GILLIAM, Jeremiah Cannon & others.
Cumberland County, VA, Deed Book 4, page 75
5 Aug 1769
Indenture between Jacob Cox of the County of Cumberland . . . James GILLIAM of the same county . . . in consideration of 45 pounds . . . sell one parcel lying in the county of Cumberland containing one hundred and thirteen acres more or less bounded by John Carter, Henry Dillin and Carter Henry Harrison, John Woodson, Robert Furlong. The said one hundred and thirteen acres of land was purchased by the said Jacob Cox from William Dillin and John Carter. . .
Sig: Jacob Cox
Wit: Saml Taylor, Drury Woodson, James GILLIAM, Jr.
Received 5 Aug 1769
Wit: Saml Taylor, Drury Woodson
Recorded 26 Feb 1770
Cumberland County, VA, Deed Book 4, page 363
17 Sep 1769
Henry Bohannon, a resident of Amelia County, VA purchased 200 acres on Buffelow River in Prince Edward County from John Gilliam of Cumberland County.
Wit: William and James Fretwell, father and brother of Susanna Fretwell.
Prince Edward County, VA, Deed Book 3, page 368
[This appears to be the John Gilliam that married Susannah Richardson. Susanna Fretwell married Henry Bohannan]
28 Sep 1770
James GILLIAM of County of Cumberland of one part and David Hailey of County of Pittsylvania of other part . . . for £15 current money . . . 94 acres beginning on Northside Smith's River opposite to mouth of Bowings Creek, down said River as it meanders . . . Northside the river . . . crossing a branch.
Wit: Michael Rowland, Annan Bates, Thomas (X) Smith
James GILLIAM
Recorded: 28 Sep 1770
Received: 2 Sep 1770
Wit: John Bates
Cumberland County, VA, Deed Book 2, page 12
[Michael Rowland is near relative of William Rowland, mentioned in bounds of Carrington to GILLIAM, above.]
15 Sep 1774
Thomas Bolling heir at law of late William Bolling dec'd of Cum. Co. and Agness his wife, and Ann Amos late widow of sd William Bolling & mother of Thomas Bolling to Joseph Carrington 65£ for 200 acres on branches of Willises Creek in Cum. Co. adj George Carrington, Carter Henry Harrison and Joseph Carrington, conveyed to William Bolling by John Witch 22 Jun 1754.
Sig. Thomas (his X mark) Bolling, Agness (her X mark) Bolling
Wit: John Woodson, James GILLIAM, Jr, Geo. Carrington
Rec: 19 Jan 1775
Cumberland County, VA, Deed Book 5, pages 364-66
24 Oct 1784
Indenture between John Carter and Susanna his wife of the county of Cumberland . . . and James GILLIAM of the same county . . . 64 pounds . . . 40 acres lying and being on a Branch of Deep Run in the said county, bounded as follows. . . John Creasy . . . Robert Furlong . . . James GILLIAM . . . This parcel of a greater tract descended to the said John from his later father John Carter, deceased. . . .
Rec: 25 Oct 1784
Sig: John Carter
Cumberland County, VA, Deed Book 6, page 289Plat of Carter-GILLIAM
24 Oct 1784
This Indenture made the twenty fourth day of October one thousand seven hundred and eighty-four between John Carter and Susanna his wife of the county of Cumberland of the one part and James Gilliam of the same county of the other part. Witnesseth that the said John Carter and Susanna his wife for the consideration of the sum of sixty four pounds current money of Virginia to them the said John paid the receipt of which is hereby confessed have granted, bargained, and sold by these presence to grant, bargain, & sell unto the said James Gilliam and his heirs one certain tract or parcel of Land containing forty acres and lying and being on a
branch of Deep Run in the said county bounded as follows
beginning at Pointers in John Creasy's line thence on his line north twenty three degrees east eighty one poles a branch to a White Oak in Robert Furlong's line
thence on his lines south eighty six and an half degrees west fifteen and an half poles to an old Pine Stump north three and an half degrees west twenty three poles to a white oak
thence on James Gilliam's lines south eighty six and an half degrees west sixty three poles to pointers south thirty two and an half degrees west fifty seven poles to pointers
thence a new line south fifty-nine degrees east ninety-one poles to the beginning and is parcel of a greater tract descended to the said John from his late father John Carter deceased.
To have and to hold the said tract or parcel of land and premises and every part and parcel thereof with the appurtenances unto the said James Gilliam and his heirs to the only use and behoof of the said James & his heirs forever and the said John Carter and his heirs the said tract or parcel of land and premises and every part and parcel thereof with the appurtenances against him the said John and his heirs and against all and every other person or persons whomever unto the said James Gilliam and his heirs shall and will forever warrant and defend by these presents.
In witness whereof the said John Carter and his wife have hereto put their hands and seals the say and year above written.
Sealed and delivered his
In presence of
Sig: John [ his X mark] Carter
At a court held for Cumberland County 25th October 1784.
This Indenture was acknowledged by John Carter a party thereto ordered to be recorded.
Teste Geo. Carrington, Clk.
Cumberland County, VA, Deed Book 6, Page 289
[This tract was part “of a great tract descended to the said John for his later father John Carter deceased.]
2 Feb 1793
Indenture between Robert GILLIAM of Cumberland and Daniel Boatright of Cumberland Robert GILLIAM sells for 40 pounds to Daniel Boatright one parcel of land lying on the northside of the Willis River.
Plat of GILLIAM-Boatright
Cumberland County, VA, Deed Book 7, page 258
20 Jan 1796
This Indenture made this twentieth day of January in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred ninety six between Drury Woodson of the County of Cumberland on the one part, and Charles GILLIAM of the said County, of the other part, witnesseth, that the said Drury Woodson for and in consideration of the sum of sixty five pounds Virginia currency to him in hand paid by the said Charles GILLIAM the receipt whereof is hereby confessed hath granted, bargained and sold and by these presents doth grant bargain ands sell to the said Charles GILLIAM one certain tract or parcel of land lying and being in the County aforesaid and bounded as follows, viz. by the lands of Thomas Wilkerson, on the north and northwest, the land of Drury Woodson on the west and south and by the lands formerly belonging to James GILLIAM deceased, now the property of the said Charles GILLIAM on the east, together with all the rites, interest, claim, appurtenances and premises to the said fifty acres of land or in any wise appertaining to have and to hold the said fifty acres more or less and the premises thereto belonging to the said Charles GILLIAM his heirs or assigns to the only proper uses benefit and behoove of him the said GILLIAM his heirs or assigns forever, and the said Drury Woodson, for himself and his heirs doth covenant and agree to and with the said GILLIAM that he the said Drury Woodson and his heirs shall and will warrant and forever defend the writ and title in and to the said fifty acres against the claim or demand of all person or persons whatever that witness whereof the said Drury Woodson hath hereunto set his hand and affixed his seal this day and year first above mentioned.
Sig: Drury Woodson
Wit: John Stratton, Daniel Boatright, Philemon Davidson
At a court held for Cumberland County the 5th day of January 1796 the written indenture of bargain and sale was proven by the witness thereto and ordered to be recorded.
Teste Tschr. Woodson
Cumberland County, VA, Deed Book 7, Page 444
13 Oct 1797
This Indenture made this thirteenth day of October one thousand seven hundred and ninety seven between Robert GILLIAM of Cumberland and State of Virginia of the one part and John Sandige of the said county and state. Witnesseth that the said Robert GILLIAM for in consideration of the just sum of 300 pounds current money of Virginia to him in hand paid by the said John Sandige hath granted, bargained and sold unto John Sandige a certain tract or parcel of [land] lying on the heads of Cannons branch, a water of Willises River in the said County containing by estimation 200 acres more or less bounded by the lands of Joseph Carrington, Robert Carrington, Philemon or Hezekiah Davidson, Charles GILLIAM, Drury Woodson and Daniel Boatright which said tract or parcel of land the said Robert GILLIAM inherits under the last will and testament of his Grandfather James GILLIAM late of said county deceased: together with all the premises and appurtenances to the said tract or parcel of land belonging to in anywise appertaining. To have and to hold the said tract or parcel of land with the premises thereunto belonging to the said John Sandige his heirs or assigns, to the only proper use, benefit and behoof of him the said John Sandige his heirs or a assigns forever and the said Robert GILLIAM for himself and his heirs covenants and agrees to and with the said John Sandige that he the said Robert GILLIAM unto his heirs shall and will warrant and forever defend the right and title in and to the said tract or parcel of land against the claim or demand of all persons whatever.
In witness whereof the said Robert GILLIAM hath hereunto set his hand and affixed his seal the day, month and year first above written. —the word hundred interlined before signing
Sig: Robert GILLIAM
In the presence of
N Carrington, John Holt, Armistead Brown. John Stratton, Charles M. GILLIAM
At a court held for Cumberland County the 27th day of November 1797. This Indenture of bargain and sale from Robert GILLIAM to John Sandige was proved by three of the Witnesses thereto and by the Court Order to be recorded.
Cumberland County, VA, Deed Book 8, page 10616 Oct 1797
Indenture of Robert Taylor and John Woodson, and John Sandige
Cumberland County, VA, Deed Book 8, page 148-149
15 Nov 1800
This Indenture made this fifteenth day of the November one thousand eight hundred between Charles M. GILLIAM and Elizabeth his wife on the one part and John Stratton of the County of Cumberland of the other part witnesseth that the said Charles M. GILLIAM and Elizabeth his wife of the county aforesaid for and in consideration of the sum of one thousand dollars in hand paid by the said John Stratton before the ensealing and delivery of these presents, the receipt thereof in hereby ____ hath bargain and sold and by these presents doth bargain and sell unto the said John Stratton one certain tract or parcel of land lying and being in said county on the southside of Willises River and other ways bounded by the land of Thomas Wilkinson, Drury Woodson, John Sandrige, and Philemon Davidson and is all the land the said GILLIAM has in the said tract contained by estimation two hundred acres be the same more of less to have and to hold the said tract or parcel of land and premises unto the said John Stratton his heirs is assigned forever and the said Charles M. GILLIAM and Elizabeth his wife and their heirs doth covenant and agree to and with the said John Stratton and his heirs and assigns forever that they the said Charles M. GILLIAM etc. for themselves and theirs doth warrant and defend the said land and premises unto the John Stratton and his heirs forever against the claim of any person or persons whatsoever in witness herefore the said Charles M. GILLIAM and Elizabeth his wife hath hereunto and seals the day and date above written
Sig: Charles M. GILLIAM
Signed in presence of John Newton, John Sandrige, Philemon Davidson, Joseph Thomas All above held for Cumberland County, the second day of March 1801
This indenture of bargain and sell from Charles M. GILLIAM to John Stratton was acknowledged and ordered to be recorded.
Teste
Ts Woodson, DC
Cumberland County, VA, Book 8, page 428
15 Nov 1800
This indenture made this fifteenth day of November One thousand eight hundred between Thomas Taylor and Lucy his Wife of the one part and Charles M. GILLIAM of the county of Cumberland of the other part Witnesseth the said Thomas Taylor and Lucy his Wife of the County aforesaid for and in consideration of the sum of three hundred pound current money in hand paid by the said Charles M. GILLIAM the receipt whereof is hereby confessed he the said Thomas Taylor and Lucy his wife hath granted bargained and sold unto the said Charles M. GILLIAM one certain tract or parcel of land lying between the tract known by Bates Tract James River and Wilkinsons Mill Creek and the lands where one Sophia Taylor now lives, the property of Creed Taylor in the aforesaid county of Cumberland containing by estimation one hundred and sixty three acres to have and to hold the said Tract or parcel of land and premises unto the said Charles M. GILLIAM his heirs or assigns forever and the said Thomas Taylor and Lucy his wife and their heirs doth covenant and agree to with the said Charles M. GILLIAM and his heirs and assign forever that they the said Thomas Taylor and Lucy his wife will for themselves and their heirs warrant and defend the said Land and premises unto the said Charles M. GILLIAM and his heirs forever against the claim of any person whatsoever in witness whereof the said Thomas Taylor and Lucy his wife doth hereunto set their hands and seals the day and year aforesaid.
Sealed and delivered Thomas Taylor, Lucy Taylor
in the presence of Teste, Philemon Davidson, John Sandidge, John Newton, J Thomas, John Stratton Senior, Thomas Huddleston
At a court held for Cumberland Count the 28th day of March 1801.
This indenture of bargain and sale from Thomas Taylor to Charles M. GILLIAM was proved by three of the witnesses thereto and ordered to be recorded.
Teste T. Woodson
Cumberland County, VA, Book 8, Page 429
15 Nov 1800
The Commonwealth of Virginia to Codrington Carrington and William Powel Gentlemen Justices for the County of Cumberland greeting whereas Charles M. GILLIAM by a certain indenture date the 15th day of November 1800 sold and convey to John Stratton the Fee Simple Estate in two hundred acres with the appurtenances lying and being in the County of Cumberland and whereas Elizabeth wife of the said Charles M. cannot conveniently travel the court the said county of Cumberland to make her acknowledgment of the said conveyance therefore power is hereby given to you or any two of you to receive the acknowledgment which the said Elizabeth shall be willing to make before you of the conveyance contained in the said jurisdiction which whereto annexed and you are hereby command that you do go tot he said Elizabeth and receive her acknowledgment of the same and examine her privately and apart from the said Charles M. her husband whether she doth the same freely and voluntarily without his persuasions or threats and whether be willing the same may be recorded in the said court of Cumberland and when you have received her acknowledgment and examined her as aforesaid that you distinctly and firmly certify the Justices of the said court hereof under your seals sending them there the said Indenture and this writ.
Witness Miller Woodson, Clerk of our said court at the Courthouse the 10th day of June 1801 in the xxvth [25th] year of the Commonwealth.
Sig: Anderson Redd, DC
Cumberland County, VA, Book 8, page 531
27 Feb 1802
This Indenture made this twenty-seventh of February one thousand eight hundred and two between Drury Woodson of the County of Cumberland of the one part and Charles Woodson, John Price and Charles M. GILLIAM of the same County of the [other] part. Witnesseth that the said Drury Woodson in order to secure the payment of the publick revenue of the United States collected by the said Drury Woodson and not paid in the treasury thereof of which payment the said Charles Woodson, John Price and Charles M. GILLIAM are bound as securities to the United States and in consideration of the sum of one dollar in hand paid by the said Charles Woodson etc. before the ensealing and delivery of these presents the receipt whereof is hereby confest [sic] he the said Drury Woodson hath bargained and sold and by these presents doth bargain and sell unto the said Chas. Woodson, Jno. Price and Chas. M. GILLIAM the following estate, (to w.) one certain tract or parcel of land whereon the said Drury Woodson now lives contained by estimation three hundred acres more or less and bounded by the lands of John Stratton, John Glover and Thomas Wilkinson in the county aforesaid likewise nine Negroes (to wit) James, Anderson, Phill, Ned, Sinthy and George, three head of horses ten head of cattle and three beds with furniture with the reversion and reversions yearly and other rents issues and profits with every part and parcel thereof and also all the right titles interest claim or demand whatsoever of him the said Drury Woodson in the said real personal estate; to have and to hold the said tract of three hundred acres lying as aforesaid together with six Negroes James, Anderson, Phill, Ned, Sinthy and George, three head of horses ten head of cattle and three beds etc. as herein before mentioned to be hereby granted with their and every of their appurtenances unto the said Charles Woodson, John Price and Charles M. GILLIAM their heirs exors a ____ and assigns forever ____ trust nevertheless that the said Charles Woodson, John Price, and Charles M. GILLIAM shall as soon as they can agreeable to law proceed to sell the same to the highest bidder for cash and out of the monies arising from the sale to defray all the reasonable charges attending such sale and other the debt above mentioned and the residue of such monies (if any) to the use of the said Drury Woodson as he shall direct in witness whereof the said Drury Woodson hath hereunto set his hand and seal the day and date above written
Sig: Drury Woodson
Wit: Isaac Johnson, Walter Jones
At a court held for Cumberland County on Monday the 23rd day of August 1802. This deed of mortgage for Drury Woodson to Charles Woodson, John Price and Charles M. GILLIAM was proved by the oath of the witnesses thereto and ordered to be recorded
Teste Wade N. Woodson
Cumberland County, VA, Book 9, Page 123
20 Dec 1802
This Indenture made and entered into this 20th day of December 1802 between James GILLIAM of the county of Cumberland of the one part and Austin Wharton of the same County of the other part
Witnesseth that the said James Gilliam for and in consideration of the sum of two thousand dollars current money of the United States to him in hand paid by the said Austin Wharton at and before the sealing and delivery of these presents. The receipt whereof the said James Gilliam doth hereby acknowledge, hath granted, bargain, sold, alien’d, enfeoffed, released and confirmed unto the said Austin Wharton and to his heirs and assigns forever, one certain tract or parcel of land situate, lying and being in the County of Cumberland, on both side of the main road, leading from the courthouse of the said county to the town of Cartersville, containing 152 acres and a half by estimation, be the same more or less, it being the same tract or parcel of land where the said James GILLIAM now lives and bounded by the land of John Hughes, Francis B. Deane, Polly Woodson, and Randolph Harrison together with all and singular the rights, liberties, privileges, improvements, hereditaments, and appurtenances whereunto belonging or in anywise appertaining and the revisions and remainders, rents, issues and profits thereof also all the estate, right, title interest, possession, property, claim, and demand whosever of his the said James Gilliam in law equity or otherwise howsoever of into or out of all and singular the premises hereby granted to have and to hold the aforesaid tract or parcel of land and premises with all and singular the appurtenances unto the said Austin Wharton, his heirs, and assigns to the only proper use, benefit and behoof of the said Austin Wharton his heirs and assigns forever and the said James Gilliam doth hereby covenant promise and agree to and with the said Austin Wharton that he the said James Gilliam and his heirs shall and will warrant and forever defend unto the said Austin Wharton and his heirs a good and indefeasible estate in fee simple of in and to the aforesaid tract or parcel of land and premises with the appurtenances thereunto belonging against the claim, title, challenge or demand of him the said James Gilliam and his heirs and against the claim title, challenge or demand of all and every other person or persons whatsoever.
In testimony whereof the said James Gilliam hath hereunto set his hand and affixed his seal the day and year aforesaid.
Sig: James GILLIAM
In the presence of
Wit: Archd Taylor, Zach Taylor, Paul J. Carrington
At a court held for Cumberland County the 27th day of June 1803 this indenture of bargain and sale from James Gilliam to Austin Wharton is acknowledged and ordered to be recorded.
Teste
Miller Woodson, Clerk
Cumberland County, VA, Deed Book 9, page 212
[This tract is composed of 112 acres purchased of Jacob Cox and 40 acres purchased of John Carter.
Archibald and Zachary Taylor are the sons of Joseph Taylor and Judith Gilliam. Paul J. Carrington married Martha Gilliam, James’ daughter.]
20 Jan 1803
Between John Boatwright, Nuttley Mattox; William Daniel Jr. and John GILLIAM
John Boatwright indebted to Nuttley Mattox for 300 currant assigns to William Daniel Jr. and John GILLIAM a certain parcel lying on Horn Quarter Creek contain 185 acres being part of the same tract the said Boatright now resides bounded by Alexander Trent on the west, the said Nuttley Mattox on the North and William Coleman on the south
Witnesses
Wm England
Theo Carter
Henry De Ende
[Henry De Ende was a slave trader who left a Will in New Orleans. He and James P. Wilkinson were in business together. A series of suits carried on until the 1850’s regarding some of their business transactions.]
Cumberland County, VA, Deed Book 9, page 251.
20 Jan 1803
This indenture tripartite made and entered into this 20th day of January in the year of our Lord 1803 between John Boatright of the County of Cumberland of the first part, Nottley Mattox of the same county of the second part, William Daniel, Jr. and John GILLIAM of the same county of the third part, Witnesseth that whereas the said John Boatright stands justly indebted to the said Nottley Mattox by bond bearing date ____ with this instrument, in the sum of three hundred dollars current money of this United States, payable on the 1st day of Dec 1803 with interest from the date till paid, and the said John Boatright in order to secure unto the said Nottley Mattox his heirs or assigns the payment of the said sum of three hundred dollar at the time herein stipulated and for the further consideration of the sum on one dollar current money to him in hand paid by the said William Daniel Jr. and John GILLIAM at and before the sealing and delivery of these presents the receipt whereof he the said John Boatright doth hereby acknowledge, have granted, bargained, and sold aliened enfeoffed, released, etc., confirmed, and by these presents do grant, bargain, and sell alien enfeoff, release and confirm unto the said William Daniel, Jr. & John GILLIAM and to the Survivor of them and his heirs forever,
a certain tract or parcel of land, situate, lying and being in the aforesaid county of Cumberland on Horn Quarter Creek, containing one hundred and eighty five acres being apart of the same tract on which the said Boatright at present resides and bounded by Alexander Trent, on the west, the said Nottley Mattox on the north, William Coleman Sr. on the south, together with all and singular, the rights privileges, improvements, hereditaments and appurtenances, thereunto belonging and the reversions and remainder, rents, issues and profits, thereof also all the estate right, title, interest, use, possession, property, claim, etc., demand whatsoever of him the said John Boatright in san[?] equity or otherwise howsoever, of into or out of all and singular the premises to have and to hold all and singular the premises hereby granted with the appurtenances unto the said William Daniel Jr., and John GILLIAM their heirs or assigns to the only proper use benefit, and behoof of them the said William Daniel and Jno GILLIAM their heirs and assigns forever and the said John Boatright for himself and his heirs do covenant promise and agree to and with the said William Daniel and John GILLIAM that he the said John Boatright and his heirs shall and will warrant and forever defend unto the said William Daniel and John GILLIAM and to the survivor of them the said William Daniel and John GILLIAM and his heirs a good and indefeasible estate in fee simple of in and to the aforesaid land with all and singular appurtenances, thereunto, belonging against the claim, title, challenge, or demand of him the said John Boatright, and against the claim, title challenge or demand of all and every person or persons whatsoever, upon this special, trust and confidence that in case the said John Boatright his heirs or assigns, shall well and truly pay or cause to be paid unto the said Nottley Mattox his heirs or assigns the aforesaid sum of three hundred dollars at time herein before stipulated that then and in that case this indenture and every part thereof shall be null and void to all intents and purposes, but should the said John Boatright his heirs etc make default in the payment aforesaid at the time it shall become due that then and in the case it shall be lawful for the said William Daniel and John GILLIAM or the survivor of them and his heirs to make sale of for ready money, the whole or any part of the premises hereby granted in fee simple as will be sufficient to satisfy and pay unto the said Nottley Mattox the aforesaid sun of three hundred dollars together with all interest cost and charges, that shall or may accrue by carrying this trust into full and complete effect provided nevertheless that no sale of the premises aforesaid shall be made until the time and place of making such sale shall have been previously published in one or more of he Virginia Gazettes ten days, and should any monies remain in the hands of the said William Daniel and John GILLIAM or either of them arising form such sale, after paying whatever shall be due and ____ to the said Nottley Mattox including all interest costs and charges as foresaid, the same shall be paid unto the said unto the said John Boatright his heirs or assigns
In testimony whereof the parties to these presents have hereunto set their hands and affixed their seals the day and year above written
Sig: John Boatright, John GILLIAM
In presence of Wm England, Theo’k Carter, Henry De Ende
At a court held for Cumberland County the 22nd day of August 1803. This deed tripartite from Jno Boatright to William Daniel Jr. etc. is proven by three of the witnesses thereto aforesaid to be recorded.
Miller Woodson, DC
[Henry De Ende was a slave trader who left a Will in New Orleans. He and James P. Wilkinson were in business together. A series of suits was in the courts until the 1850’s regarding some of their business transactions. James P. Wilkinson is the son of Thomas Wilkinson and Sarah Gilliam.]
Cumberland County, VA, Deed Book 9, page 251.
16 Jun 1804
Indenture between Joseph McLaurine and Susanna his wife of Powhatan County . . . and James GILLIAM of Cumberland . . . $946 . . . a certain tract of land containing 86 acres more or less, lying in the County of Powhatan and bounded as follows on the north by the Main Road leading from Cumberland to old C. House, to Cumberland Courthouse, on the west by the lands of Hanse Steger, Senr, on the south by the lands of John Steger Senior, and on the east by the lands of Absalom Davenport, Thomas Davenport, and John P. Steger Junior. . .
Sig: Joseph McLaurine
Wit: Samuel Hobson, Mi Montague, John Spears
Rec. 18 Jul 1804
At a court held for Powhatan County the 18th day of July 1804. This indenture of bargain and sale from Joseph McLaurine, and Susanna his wife to James GILLIAM, was presented in Court and acknowledged by the said McLaurine to be his act and deed, and thereupon ordered to be recorded.
Teste James Poindexter
[Witness "Mi Montague" may be should read "Mr." Montague, referring to Thomas Montague whose granddaughter married a grandson of James GILLIAM. However, more than likely it should read Mickleberry Montague. Mickleberry is found in the 1790 Powhatan Personal Property Lists with Elizabeth McLaurine who had a tithable Joseph. This tract when purchased by James GILLIAM contained "houses." One of these houses is now on the National Register. The Report describes renovations likely done by James GILLIAM. James is living on this tract at the time of his death. Susannah is described as living there in the 1815 Landowner's Directory. The heirs of James GILLIAM sell this tract in 1816 to Littleberry H. Mosby, who, in turn, sells it to the Brown family. Susannah's death as recorded in the GILLIAM Bible is 16 Jun 1819.]
Powhatan Deed Book 3, Page 219
16 Jun 1804
This indenture made this sixteenth day of June in the year of our Lord, one thousand eight hundred and four, and of the Commonwealth the twenty-eighth between Thomas Davenport and Fanny his wife of Powhatan County on the one part and James Gilliam of Cumberland on the other, Witnesseth
that the said Thomas Davenport and Fanny his wife in consideration of the sum of four hundred and forty dollars to them in hand, the receipt whereof is hereby acknowledged have bargained and sold and by this present do bargain and sell unto the said James Gilliam, his heirs and assigns certain tract or parcel of land lying and being in the county of Powhatan containing forty acres, more or less and bounded as follows: viz
on the south the land of John P. Steger, Junior, on the west by the lands of Joseph McLaurine, on the north and easy by the lands of Absalom and John Davenport, together with all houses, buildings, orchards, and appurtenances, thereto belonging
To have and to hold the said land with all the tenements, hereditaments and premises herein before mentioned or bargained and sold unto the said James Gillam and his heirs forever, and the said Thomas Davenport and Fanny his wife, the said Land unto the said Gilliam, free from their claims. . .
Claims of any person or persons whatsoever do warrant and defend forever by these presentsIn witness whereof the said Thomas Davenport and Fanny his wife have hereto set their hands and seals the day and year first above written
Signed: Thomas Davenport {seal}
Signed sealed and delivered in the presence of
M Montague, Samuel Hobson, John Spears
At a court held for Powhatan county at the courthouse the 18th day of July 1804 this indenture of bargain and sale from Thomas Davenport and Fanny his wife to James Gilliam was presented into court and acknowledged by the said Davenport to be his act and deed and thereupon ordered to be recorded
Teste James Poindexter CPC
Powhatan County, VA, Deed Book 3, Page 220-221
[Absolom Davenport married Elizabeth Steger, the daughter of George Francis Steger.]
18 Jul 1804
Indenture made this 18th day of July in the year one thousand eight hundred and four between Charles M. GILLIAM and Elizabeth his wife of the County of Cumberland of the one part and Joseph W. Riddle of the same County of the other part witnesseth that the said Charles M. GILLIAM and Elizabeth his wife in consideration of five hundred pounds currant money of this Commonwealth to them in hand paid by the said Joseph W. Riddle before the delivery of these presents the receipt of which is hereby acknowledged have bargained and sold and by these presents do and each of them doth bargain and sell unto the said Joseph W. Riddle his heirs or assigns a certain tract of parcel of land lying and being in said county of Cumberland on the south side of James River and bounded by land of Richard Taylor, Thomas Wilkinson and J. Thomas (dec'd.) containing one hundred and sixty three acres send is all the land the said GILLIAM hold in the said tract be these same more of less together with all and singular its premises privileges hereditaments and appurtenances whatsoever to the said tract belonging with every part and parcel thereof to have and to hold the said parcel of land with all its advantages and other the premises heretofore mentioned with every of these rights and appurtenances unto the said Joseph W. Riddle is heirs or assigns for ever and the said Charles M. GILLIAM and Elizabeth his wife of themselves and their heirs the said tract or parcel of land, with all and singular the premises and appurtenances before mentioned unto the said Joseph W. Riddle his heirs and assigns free from the claim of claims of them the said Charles M. GILLIAM and Elizabeth his wife, or either of them, their or either of their heirs and of all and every other person or person whatsoever shall, will do warrant and forever defend by these present. In witness whereof the said Charles M. GILLIAM and Elizabeth his wife have hereunto set their hands and sealed the day and year above written.
Sig: Charles M. GILLIAM
Signed sealed and delivered in present of Zachariah Taylor. Jas. B. Woodson, Fredl Jones.
At a court held for Cumberland County the 26th day of November 1804 this deed was acknowledged and ordered to be recorded.
Teste
M. Woodson, Clerk
Cumberland County, VA, Book 9, Page 453
[This tract of land was purchased from Thomas Taylor and Lucy his wife in 1800.]
8 Feb 1804
Charles M. GILLIAM to Archer Taylor
Cumberland County, VA, Deed Book 9, page 427
26 Nov 1804
This indenture tripartite made and entered into this 26th day of November 1804 between Wade N. Woodson of the first part; John and Edward Cunningham, and Laurence Carlile of the second part; Nelson Patteson and John GILLIAM of the third part witnesseth that whereas the said Wade N. Woodson stands justly indebted to the said John and Edward Cunningham and the said Laurence Carlile in the sum of three hundred and sixty one pounds, four shillings, for which sum he has executed his bond payable on the 12th day of October 1805 now in order secure the payment of the said bond when it shall become due, and in consideration of the sum of one dollar to the said Wade N. Woodson in hand paid by the said Nelson Patteson and John GILLIAM at and before the sealing and delivery of these presents the receipt where of the said Woodson doth hereby acknowledge, hath granted bargained sold aliened enfeoffed released and confirmed by these present doth grant bargain sell alien, enfeoff unto the said Nelson Patteson and John GILLIAM and to their heirs and assigns forever a certain tract or parcel of land lying and being in the County of Cumberland on the waters of Tear Wallet Run containing by estimation two hundred and fifty eight acres be the same more or less it being the same tract or parcel of land which the said Woodson lately purchased from the said John and Edward Cunningham and Laurence Carlile; also negro slaves namely Billy, a negro man, Judy his wife and two female children namely Suchy and Abby, to have and to hold the aforesaid tract or parcel of land with all and singular the appurtenances thereunto belonging and the aforesaid slaves and their future increase, unto the said Nelson Patteson ad the said John GILLIAM and their heirs upon this special tract and confidence that if the said Wade N. Woodson, his heirs and shall ____ and truly pay off and discharge the said bond when the same becomes due, that then, and in that case this indenture and every part and clause there of shall be void and of no effect, but shall the said Woodson make default in the payment aforesaid then it shall be lawful and the said Patteson and GILLIAM are hereby authorized and empowered to make sale of the tract of land and slave herein mentioned for ready money after advertising the time of making such sale for six weeks previous thereto in one of the publick news papers published in the City of Richmond and out of the money arising form such sale to satisfy, pay and of discharge the said bond with all interest costs and charges that shall leave accrued thereon and all costs and charges that may accrue in carrying this trust into full and complete effect and the balance of the amount of such slaves if any to be paid to the said Woodson hath hereunto set his hand and affixed his seal the day and year aforesaid.
Sig: Wade N. Woodson
At a court held for Cumberland County the 26th day of November 1804. This deed of Trust was acknowledged and ordered to be recorded
Teste Miller Woodson
Cumberland County, VA, Deed Book 9, page 451
[Wade N. Woodson was the son of Tucker Woodson and Mary Netherland. Tucker married Mary Harris. Mary's mother was Obedience Turpin. Obedience's sister Mary married Richard James, whose daughter, Maria, married John GILLIAM.]
In 1804, James GILLIAM of Cumberland makes three land purchases in what is then Powhatan County.
15 Dec 1804
Indenture between John Steger and his son, Francis Steger of Powhatan County of the one part and James GILLIAM of the County of Cumberland of the other part. . . 229 pounds and 10 shillings . . . a certain tract or parcel of land, situate lying and being in the aforesaid County of Powhatan containing by estimation . . . 90 acres bounded as follows . . Hanse Steger . . . Parrott Steger . . .
Sig: John Steger and Francis Steger
Wit: Joseph McLaurine, Willis Swann, Skipp H. Steger
Rec: 19 Dec 1804
Powhatan County, VA, Deed Book 3, Page 257-258.
26 Feb 1805
Deed of Trust Charles M GILLIAM and Paul J Carrington to John GILLIAM & Co
monies owed John Gilliam & Co
Cumberland County, VA, Deed Book 10, page 56
12 Apr 1806
Deed of Trust: Charles M Gilliam of Cumberland and Maurice M Langhorne of Buckingham and William Powell of Cumberland
for monies owed to Richard Richardson
Cumberland County, VA, Deed Book 10, page 48
16 May 1807
Deed of Trust Charles M Gilliam of Cumberland to Maurice M Langhorne, Ellis Putney and John Sadler all of Buckingham
for monies owed to Richard Richardson
Cumberland County, VA, Deed Book 11, page 43
25 May 1807
Deed of Release: John Gilliam and Charles Woodson to Charles M Gilliam
Cumberland County, VA, Deed Book 11, page 87
28 Mar 1808
Charles GILLIAM to John GILLIAM
Cumberland County, VA, Deed Book ___, page ___
26 Sep 1810
This Indenture made the twenty-six day of September in the year one thousand eight hundred and ten between GILLIAM & Scott of the county of Cumberland of the first part,
William Daniel and Michael B. Portaux of the second part
and Charles Copeland of the third part
whereas the said GILLIAM & Scott together with Edward Dillon this day executed three several bonds each for the sum of ninety dollars and made payable to the said Charles Copland as Commissioner acting under order of the circuit court of the United States for the Virginia District in the suit of William Kendall, Jr., plaintiffs against Thomas M. Deane and others, defendants, and Scriba Scrophal and Starman plaintiffs against the same defendants all which bonds have interest from their date the first bond is payable one year after date, and the second is payable two years after date the third is payable three years after date and the intent and design of this indenture is to secure the payment of the said three bonds. Therefore this indenture witnesseth that the said Gilliam and Scott in consideration of the premises aforesaid as also for the further consideration of five shillings to the said Gilliam and Scott in hand paid by the said William Daniel and Michael B. Portaux before the sealing and delivery of this indenture the receipt whereof is hereby acknowledged hath granted, bargained and sold and by these presence doth grant bargain and sell unto the said William Daniel and Michael B. Portaux and the survivor of them, all that lot of land of three acres more or less lying in the county of Cumberland being a part of the Ca Ira Tract of land formerly owned by James Thomas and Francis Deane and which Ca Ira tract of land has been laid off into separate lots plan or plat whereof made by John Baughan surveyor will be recorded in the general court, the lot hereby granted and conveyed is called the plan or plat aforesaid to the warehouse lot and designed in that plan or plat by the number 8 and is the same lot of land numbered eight which was sold at auction by the said Charles Copeland acting as commissioner under the decree aforesaid to the said Gilliam and Scott and was conveyed to them by the said Charles Copeland as Commissioner aforesaid by a deed of bargain and sold bearing the same date with the indenture and all the estate title and interests of the said Gillam and Scott in the said land hereby granted and conveyed to have and to hold the same with all it improvements and appurtenances unto the said William Daniel and Michael B. Portaux and the survivor of them their heirs and assigns and the heirs and assigns of the survivor of them forever in witness and upon the following conditions that is to say that the said trustees shall suffer and permit the said Gilliam and Scott to remain in possession of the said lot of land and appurtenances and receive the prophets [sic] thereof to their own use until the expiration of three years from the date and if on or before three years from the date the aforesaid three bonds shall not be fully satisfied and paid together with the expenses of recording this indenture that then the said trustees or one of them shall and will at any time thereafter when they or either of them shall be thereunto required by the said Charles Copeland his executors, administrator s or assigns sell and dispose of at public auction for ready money at Ca Ira in the County of Cumberland the lot of land and appurtenances hereby granted and conveyed first giving one months notice of such sale by advertising the same in one of the newspapers printed in the city of Richmond and the money to arise from such sale so far s it will extend or shall be needful first defraying their costs the expense or recording this indenture and all reasonable charges and expenses attending the execution of this trust shall apply the same toward the discharge of the aforesaid three bonds or such of them as shall be then unpaid and the surplus of any pay to the said Gilliam and Scott but if before any such sale shall be made the aforesaid three bonds together with expenses of recovering the indenture shall be paid off and discharged these this indenture shall be utterly void and the said Gilliam and Scott doth warrant and forever defend the land and appurtenances hereby granted and conveyed against all persons claiming the same under
In witness whereof the parties to this indenture have hereunto set their hands and seals the same day and year first in this indenture written
Signed, sealed, acknowledged and delivered in presence of
Sig: GILLIAM & Scott, Wm. Daniel, Jr., M. B. Portaux, Chs. Copland
Wit: Wm M. Thornton, Leonard Barker, Jr., Parke Bailey, Bernard Sims }as to G & S.
Cumberland County, Jany 25 1811
Cumberland County, VA, Deed Book 11, page 420-421
6 Sep 1810
Indenture between Charles Copland . . . Messrs GILLIAM and Scott. . . hath granted bargained and sold and by these presence doth grant bargain and sell unto the said GILLIAM & Scott the said lot of land, Number 8 containing three acres be the same more of less and bounded as follows: . . . tavern lot . . . river . . .
Sig: Charles Copland
Wit: Wm M. Thornton, Leonard Bosher, Jr., Parke Bailey, Ber'd Sims
Rec: 23 Sep 1811
Cumberland County, VA, Deed Book 11, page 535-536
1 Dec 1810
This Indenture made the first day of December in the year of our Lord one thousand, eight hundred and ten between Elizabeth GILLIAM of the County of Buckingham of the one part and Gabriel Peasely of the County of Cumberland of the other part witnesseth that the same Elizabeth in consideration of fifty pounds lawful money of the State of Virginia to hand in hand paid by the said Gabriel Peasely the receipt whereof is hereby acknowledged have bargained and sold and by these present do bargain and sell unto the said Gabriel Peasely his heirs and assigns a certain tract of land adjoining the lands of Richard Taylor, Thomas Wilkinson, and James Thomas decd., it being my dower right to the land belonging to the estate of Joseph W. Riddle deceased by surety forty two and one third acres of land with the premises herein before mentioned unto the said Gabriel Peasely his heirs and assigns during my natural life to and for the only proper use and behoove of him the said Gabriel Peasely his heirs and assigns during my natural life and for myself my heirs do warrant and defend my dower right with all the premises and appurtenances before mentioned unto the said Gabriel Peasely his heirs and assigns free from the claim or claims of myself my heirs and assigns during my natural life and form all and every other person whosoever. In witness whereof I have here unto set my hand and seal this day and date above mentioned.
Sig: Elizabeth GILLIAM
Wit: Drury Woodson, William Faris, Tarleton Woodson
Cumberland February Court 1811
This deed was exhibited in Court and proved by two witnesses thereto.
Cumberland County, VA, Book 16, page 348
30 Sep 1814
Between Maurice M. Langhorne and Nancy this wife, and John GILLIAM
Maurice Langhorne for 4,439 dollars sells to John GILLIAM the current residence of Maurice Langhorne of 443 acres bounded as follows, beginning at the bridge over Payne’s Creek and running thence at 50 degrees 118 poles to heap of stone on Gilly on the lane commonly called Randolphs to large white oak thence 3 West 173 poles on the same land to fall . . .
Witnesses
Fredk James
M. Deane
Peter Stratton
Cumberland County, VA, Deed Book 13, page 72
[Nancy Anderson Langhorne is the sister of Elizabeth Anderson, the wife of William M. Thornton. William's daughter Catherine married Richard James GILLIAM, the son of John GILLIAM.]
30 Sep 1814
This Indenture made the 30th day of September 1814 between Maurice M. Langhorne and Nancy his wife of the county of Cumberland of the one part and John GILLIAM of the said County of the other part witnesseth that the said Maurice M. Langhorne and Nancy his wife in consideration of the sum of four thousand, four hundred and thirty dollars to have in hand paid by the said John GILLIAM at on before the ensealing and delivery of these present the receipt whereof is hereby acknowledged have bargained and sold by these present do and each of them doth bargain and sell unto the said John GILLIAM, his heirs and assigns a certain tract or parcel of land lying and being in the county of Cumberland and Buckingham and being the tract whereon the said Maurice M. Langhorne and Nancy his wife at present resides containing by a late survey four hundred and forty three acres and bounded as follows to wit
Beginning at the bridge over Payne’s’ Creek and running thence at N 50 E118 poles, to heap of stones on Gilley Lewis
Thence N 63.5, W 150 poles on the land commonly called Randolph’s to large white oak
Thence N 3 W 173 poles on the same land to fallen corner on James Wilson’s
Thence S 44 W 160 poles on Randolph’s land to a post oak
Thence N 7.6 W 113 poles to a large pine on Joshua Smiths
Thence S 15 W 99 poles ____ pointers on Peter Francisco’s
Thence S 1 W 135.5 poles to pointers
Thence due East 300 poles on Thomas M. Deane to the beginning
Together with all and singular the appurtenances thereunto belonging or appertaining to have and to hold the said tract or parcel of land with the tenements here determent and all and singular other the premises herein before mentioned or ____ to be bargained and sold and convey part and parcel thereof with every of their member and appurtenances unto the said John GILLIAM his heirs and assign forever and the said Maurice M. Langhorne and Nancy his wife do for themselves and each of them, heirs warrant and defer their right and title of the land herein ____ to be sold against the claims of themselves and their heirs and against the claims challenges or _____ of all and every person or person whatever unto here the said John GILLIAM his heirs are assign forever.
In witness whereof the same Maurice M. Langhorne and Nancy his wife have hereunto set their hand and seal this day and year first above written,
Maurice M. Langhorne
Signed, sealed and deliver in presence of
Fredk James
M. Deane
Peter Stratton
Cumberland March Court 1815
This deed was exhibited in court, acknowledged and ordered to be recorded.
Cumberland County, VA, Deed Book 13, page 72.
30 Sep 1814
This indenture made the 30th day of September 1814 between John Gilliam and Mary his wife of the County of Cumberland of the one part and Samuel Anderson Senr and William M. Thornton of the same County of the other part
Witness with that whereas the said John Gilliam stands just indebted to Maurice M. Langhorne in the sum of four thousand four hundred and third dollars good and lawful money of Virginia due by found several bonds the day executed to with one bond with Edward Dillon of Prince Edward security for two thousand two hundred and fifteen dollars payable on or before the 25th day o f December 1815 and the other bond executed by the said John Gilliam individually for one thousand one hundred and seven dollars and fifty cents payable 25th day of December 1816 one other bond for five hundred and fifty three dollars and seventy five cents payable 25th day of December 1817 and one other bon for five hundred and fifty three dollars and seventy five cents payable 25th day of December 1818 and which her the said John Gilliam honestly devised to secure and pay and in consideration of the sum of one dollar to them the said John Gilliam and Mary his wife in hand paid by the said Samuel Anderson and William M. Thornton at or before the ensealing and delivery of these presents the receipt whereof is hereby acknowledged they the said John Gilliam . . . [remainder not copied]
Cumberland County, VA, Deed Book 13, page 128.
21 Dec 1815
This indenture made this twenty-first day of December one thousand eight hundreds and fifteen, between James Brown, Robert Reavis, & Henry Rives lately trading under the firm of Henry Rives & Co. of the one part and this said Henry Rives, William M. Thornton and John GILLIAM of this second part:
Witnesseth that said James Brown, Robert Rives, & Henry Rives lately trading under the firm of Henry Rives & Co. do by these presents bargain, sell, set over and deliver to the said Henry Rives, William M. Thornton, & John GILLIAM the following real and personal property viz.
One lot with the emoluments thereto belong a set forth in a deed from Charles Copeland commissioner to the said Henry Rives & Co. bearing date the twenty-sixth day of September one thousand eight hundred and ten which said deed was put to record in the County Court of Cumberland the 28th day of Jany. one thousand eight hundred and eleven. Also the Mill lot with emoluments thereto belong as set forth in a deed from Charles Copeland Commissioner to the said Henry Rives & Co bearing date the twenty sixth day of September one thousand eight hundred and ten which said deed was put to record in the County court of Cumberland The twenty eighth day of Jany. one thousand eight hundred and eleven
Also, the following negroes viz., Miller Jesse, Boatman, Isaac with his boat, Cooper, Daniel, Negro man, Davy, for and in the consideration of eleven thousand three hundred and fifty seven dollars to us the said James Brown, Robert Rives & Henry Rives, lately trading under the firm of Henry Rives & Co. in hand paid by the said Henry Rives, William M. Thornton and John GILLIAM before the ensealing and delivery of the presents—the right and title to aforesaid real and personal property we the said James Brown, Robert Rives and Henry Rives lately trading as aforesaid do by these present forever warrant and defend to the said Henry Rives, Wm. M. Thornton, and John GILLIAM, their heirs etc. forever against the claims of all persons whatever. In witness, whereof we have to set our hands and affix our seal, date above
Sig: James Brown, Henry Rives, Robt. Rives
Sealed, signed and delivered in presents of
Martin Dawson[?]
Daniel A. Wilson
Richard Bellamy
Edward J. Carrington
Cumberland County, VA, Deed Book 14, page 154
26 Dec 1815
Cumberland County (to wit) We John Daniel and William M. Thornton Justices of the Peace in the said County aforesaid do hereby certify that Nancy Langhorne, wife of Maurice M. Langhorne parties to the annexed deed for the conveyance of four hundred and forty three acres of land to John GILLIAM bearing date the 30th day of September 1814 appeared personally before us in the County aforesaid and being examined by us privily and apart form her husband and having the deed aforesaid fully explained to her, the said Nancy Langhorne, acknowledged the same to be her act and deed and declared that she had willingly signed, sealed and delivered the same and that she wished not to retract it given under our hands and seals this 26th day of December 1815.
Sig: John Daniel, William M. Thornton
Cumberland County, VA, Deed Book 13, page 313
1 Aug 1817
Richard James' Legatees to Thomas Tabb, et al.
2000 acres
. . . Beginning at three hickories south east corner of Thomas Overton’s survey number four hundred sixty four
Running south sixty degrees east four hundred & seventy six poles to two white oaks,
Thence south fifty-one degrees west eight hundred poles crossing a branch at one hundred and seventy two and Deep Creek at four hundred and forty five poles to a stake,
Thence north fifteen degrees west seven hundred and sixty four poles to a stake southwest corner to said Overton,
Thence with his line east four hundred and four poles crossing the creek at two hundred and thirty poles to the beginning . . .
Cumberland County, VA, Deed Book 14, page 169
[Richard James' daughter, Maria Jefferson James, married John Gilliam. Among the Legatees were John and Maria and Maria's sister, Catherine "Kitty" James.]
10 Apr 1819
John Gilliam to John Spencer, 847.5 acres beginning at Payne's Creek Bridge.
This indenture made this 10th day of April 1819 between John Gilliam and Mary his wife of the county of Cumberland of the one part and John Spencer of the same county of the other part
Witnesseth that for and in consideration of the sum of sixteen thousand, nine hundred and fifty dollars in hand paid to the said Gilliam by the said Spencer the receipt whereof be the said Gilliam doth hereby acknowledge, hath granted, bargained and sold and by these presents doth grant, bargain and sell unto the said John Spencer one certain tract or parcel of land containing by a late survey, eight hundred and forty seven and a half acres and being the tract whereon the said Gilliam now lives and bounded as follows: beginning at the foot of Payne's Creek Bridge and running thence due West 296 poles to pointers on Thomas M. Deane's, thence south 35 1/2 West 24 1/2 poles to fallen pine on Henry . . . [remainder not copied]
Cumberland County, VA, Deed Book 15, page 251.
[In the 1820 Buckingham County Census, John Gilliam and John Spencer "of Cumberland" are listed adjacently. This John Gilliam is listed with numerous daughters and appears to be John Gilliam of Cumberland, husband of Maria Jefferson James.
A portion of this tract of 847 acres (443 acres) was purchased from Maurice Langhorne in 1804. ]
July 1819
Deed of release, John GILLIAM and Archibald Taylor to Byrd Smith and John England.
Cumberland County, VA, Deed Book 15, page 177
27 Dec 1819
John GILLIAM and wife to John Spencer, relinquishes dower
Cumberland County, VA, Deed Book 15, page 251
11 Feb 1833
This indenture made this 11th day of February 1833 between John Trent and Lucy Ann his wife of the County of Cumberland of the first part, John C. Page and Alexander Trent of thee same County of the second part and John C. Trent, Mary B. Trent, Edward Trent, Richard B. Trent, Letitia Trent, Lucy Trent, William H. Trent and Peter F. Trent children of the said John and Lucy Ann Trent all of whom are infants of the mind part.
Whereas Letitia W. Taylor relict of Archibald Taylor late of the City of Richmond hath recently departed this life, entitled by virtue of the last will of her late husband or otherwise to property real and personal of considerable value, leaving as her next of kin two sisters Lucy Ann Trent and Eliza M. Harrison wife of Thomas Harrison, and whereas the said
Letitia W. Taylor during her last illness verbally communicated her wishes in regard to the disposition of all her said property to the said Thomas Harrison at whose house she died and to his said wife and their daughter Mary B. Harrison by the former of whom the substance of the said communication was the day previous to the death of the said Letitia H. committed to writing which writing was signed by himself, his said wife and daughter as witnessed a copy of which writing with an explanatory statement of the said witnesses thereto subjoined is hereto annexed as a part of this instrument and whereas owing to the inadvertent omission to state in the said writing more fully and explicitly the express and repeated declaration of the said Letitia H. made during her last illness of her wish and intention that the said John Trent and Lucy Ann his wife should during their lives enjoy the whole interest and profits of the portion intended for the said Lucy Ann, some doubts exist whether the said writing if opposed could be established as a good nuncupative will, and it is moreover deemed necessary to offer the same for probate in as much as if established it would neither increase nor diminish the interest of the said Thomas Harrison and his wife in the property of the decedent and the said John Trent and Lucy Ann his wife are willing to convey and issue to their children the same or a greater interest than she would have been entitled to probate and whereas Edward Cunningham who was named in the said writing as a trustee has declined acting in that capacity and acquiesces in the propriety of the course now taken in regard to the said will and of this conveyance and also of the appointment of the said John C. Page and Alexander Trent as trustees who have consented each as such.
This indenture witnesseth that for and in consideration of the promises and for the further consideration of one dollar to them in hand paid at or before the sealing and delivery of these presents the receipt whereof is hereby acknowledged by the said John Trent and Lucy Ann his wife have granted bargained and sold, transferred and assigned and do by these presents grant bargain and sell, transfer and assign unto the said John C. Page and Alexander Trent and the survivor of them their executors, administrators and assigns all the rights title and interests of them the said John and Lucy Ann joint or several, under the said writing or otherwise in and to the estate real and personal held or owned by the said Letitia W. Taylor at the time of her decease, or to which she was entitled and which may have passed to or vested in them except the household and kitchen furniture, or proceeds thereof. But upon this special trust and confidence, that the said trustees or either of them shall proceed without delay to collect and receive the estate real and personal hereby conveyed and each of the first monies that shall come into their hands forthwith set apart and appropriate five thousand dollars for the benefit of the said John C. Trent one of the children of the said John and Lucy Ann in such manner that the interest thereupon be annually applied for his use and the principal secured to be paid to him on his attaining the age of twenty one years; and upon this further such that the residue of the personal estate shall be invested in stock or good loans and the dividends or interest annually appropriated together with the profits of the real estate if any accrue before a sale be made thereof to the use and benefit of the said John Trent and Lucy Ann his wife during their joint lives and upon the death of either to the survivor for the use and benefit of such survivor and their children, and at the death of such survivor the whole principal divided equally among all the children of the said Lucy Ann born or to be born, their living and the decedents of such if any as may have died before her such descendants taking among them the portion to which their parents respectively if living would have been entitled, and upon this further trust that the said trustees or either of them whensoever they may deem it advantageous so to do may make sale of the real estate hereby conveyed or any part thereof in conjunction with the said Thomas Harrison and wife or separately and invest the proceeds of sale in stock or loans as aforesaid appropriating the dividends or interest as before provided in relation to the personal estate, and it is agreed and understood by and between the parties to these presents, that in regard to the disposition of the personal estate and the dividends and interests therefrom accruing the trustees shall be regulated by the wishes and intentions of the said Letitia W. Taylor as expressed and contained in the said writing before referred to in the same manner as if the same had been duly admitted to record but in relation to the real estate by this instrument according to its due intent and meaning. It is further understood and agreed by and between the said parties that the said real estate if unsold or the principal money arising from the sale thereof if sold, whether invested in stock or loans or otherwise shall at the death of the said John and Lucy Ann Trent be equally divided among all her children and their descendents if any in the manner before provided in regard to the division of the personal estate, provided however such con. . .
Cumberland County, VA, Deed Book 21, page 149.
[Archibald Taylor is the son of Judith Gilliam and Joseph Taylor. Archibald Taylor and Letitia Cunningham, his wife, did not have chlldren. John Trent married Letitia’s sister, Lucy Ann Cunningham]
27 Jan 1844
An Indenture made this 27th day of January 1844. Between Geo. M. Payne and William Woodson of the County of Buckingham of the first part, & Silas S. Bryant of the County of Cumberland of the other part; Whereas by a decretal order of the Circuit Superior Court of law and Chancery holden for the said County of Cumberland on the 3rd day of April 1833, made in suit therein then pending in which Samuel Spencer and Judith his wife and others were Plaintiffs and Randolph Harrison admr. de bonis non of Archibald Taylor dec'd. and the said Randolph Harrison admr. of Thos. R. Harrison dec'd. and others were Defendants.
A certain tract of land of which Joseph Taylor died seized, mentioned in the proceedings of said suit, was ordered to be sold on the terms therein set forth, and the said Geo. M. Payne, William Woodson and Francis B. Deane Jr. were appointed Commissioners by whom or any one or more of whom said decretal order should be carried into effect, and whereas the said Geo. M. Payne and William Woodson two of said Commissioners afterwards to wit, on the 7th day of July, pursuant to said decretal order, proceeded to offer said tract of land (having previously, by survey ascertained the quantity thereof to be One hundred and twenty seven acres) for sale, to the highest bidder at public auction, and sold the same to the said Silas S. Bryant, the highest bidder therefore at the price of $24.30 per acre, of which sale so made said Commissioners Payne and Woodson made report to said court of Cumberland - and whereas the said Circuit Superior Court of law and Chancery for said county of Cumberland on the 27th day of March 1840 among other things ordered that Geo. M. Payne and William Woodson, the Commissioners appointed to make sale of said land do by deed convey the same to the said Bryant with Special warranty it appearing to the court that said Bryant the purchase thereof had paid into the hands of the receiver of the court in the cause the whole among of the purchase money of said land all of which will fully appear by reference to the record of said suit.
Now this Indenture Witnesseth, that the said Payne and Woodson Commissioners as aforesaid, in consideration of the premises have bargained, sold, aliened and confirmed and by these presents do bargain, sell, alien and confirm to the said Silas S. Bryant, said tract of land of which said Joseph Taylor died seized containing by survey as aforesaid one hundred and twenty seven acres and adjoining the lands now owned and held by William Leitch, the lands previously owned by said Bryant, and bounded on the north by James River, with all and singular the appurtenances thereof to the only proper use and behoof of him the said Bryant his heirs & assigns.
To have and to hold said tract of land with all and singular the appurtenances thereof to him the said Bryant his heirs &c. And the said Payne and Woodson Commissioner as aforesaid covenants and agree for themselves their heirs &c to warrant and defend the said Bryant his heirs &c. against all claim, demand or title to said land, on their own part as commissioners as aforesaid and on the part of all others claiming by __ or under them as Commission as aforesaid, and against no other claim, title or demand whatever. In testimony of the premises the said Payne & Woodson have hereto set their hands and seals the day and year first above written.
Sig: Geo. M. Payne Sig: William Woodson Commissioners
Buckingham County, VA We Elijah G. Haines and Edward P. Talley justices of the peace in the county aforesaid and State of Virginia do hereby certify that Geo. M. Payne and William Woodson parties to a certain deed bearing date on the 27th Jan 1844 & hereto annexed, personally appeared before us in our county aforesaid and acknowledged that they had signed sealed and delivered the same as their act & deed and desired us to certify the said acknowledgment to the Clerk of the county court of Cumberland, in order that the said deed may be recorded. Given under our hands & seals this 31st day of Jan 1844 Sig: Elijah G. Hanes (seal) Sig: Edwin P. Talley (seal)
At a court held for Cumberland County, the 25th day of March 1844 This deed from Geo. M. Payne and William Woodson Comrs. To Silas S. Bryant with a certificate of acknowledgment annexed was presented in Court and ordered to be recorded. Teste: B. B. Woodson, CC
Cumberland County, VA, Deed Book 25, page 461
[Geo. M. Payne and William Woodson of the County of Buckingham deed to Silas S. Bryant of the County of Cumberland a certain tract of land formerly owned by Joseph Taylor, husband of Judith Gilliam, daughter of James Gilliam of Cumberland.]
24 Jun 1852
Know all men by these presents that we John A. Hudgins, Elizabeth M. Hudgins, William L. Toler, Sarah M. Toler, Carter M. GILLIAM and Joseph W. Palmore of the County of Cumberland and County of Powhatan and State of Virginia in consideration of three hundred and sixteen dollars in hand paid by Everard Carter of County of Cumberland and State of Virginia the receipt whereof we do hereby acknowledge do by these presents grant bargain and sell and convey unto the said Everard Carter his heirs and assigns all of our interest in a certain tract of land or parcel of land situated in the said County of Cumberland and State of Virginia bounded and described as follows by the lands of William Montague on the east and by the lands of Joseph M. Goodman on the north and by the lands of Leonard Boatwright on the west and by the lands of Robert Stratton on the south, supposed to contain one hundred and five acres be the same more or less it being the same land belonging to the estate of Jesse Carter deceased together with all the privileges appurtenances to the said land in any wise appertaining and belonging. To have and to hold the above granted premises to these said Everard Carter his heirs assigns forever and use the said John A. Hudgins and Elizabeth A. Hudgins, William L. Toler, and Sarah M. Toler, Carter M. GILLIAM and Joseph W. Palmore do covenant with the said Everard Carter his heirs and assigns that we have a right to sell our interest in the above granted premises that they are free from all encumbrances and that we will and our executors and administrators shall warrant and defend the same to the said, Everard Carter his heirs and assigns for ever against the lawful claims and demands of all persons. In testimony whereof we have hereunto set our hands and seals this the 24th day of June in the year one thousand eight hundred and fifty two.
William L. Toler
Sarah M. Toler
Jno. A. Hudgins
Elizabeth M. Hudgins
Joseph W. Palmore
Carter M. GILLIAM
Cumberland County, VA, Deed Book 27, page 573-574
29 Nov 1857
I hereby sell and convey to Joseph Hodgson for valued recd all my title and interest in and to my claim as legatee in the Estate of Elizabeth Carter for which I have instituted suit against the administrator in the County of Cumberland for the sum of seventy nine dollars and ninety four cents as witness my hand and seal.
Sig: Carter M. Gilliam
Fluvanna County, to wit:
I Joseph H. Turner Justice of the Peace for the county aforesaid and state of Virginia do certify that Carter M. Gilliam whose name is signed to the _____ above bearing date of the 29th day of November 1857 has acknowledged the same before me in my County aforesaid. Given under my hand this 29th day of November 1857
Sig: Joseph H. Turner, JP
In Cumberland County Court Clerk’s Office, the 2nd day of December 1857. The foregoing deed from Carter M. Gilliam to Joseph Hodgson was received in this office with a certificate of acknowledgment annexed and admitted to record.
Teste
B. B. Woodson, Cl
Cumberland County, VA, Deed Book 27, page 364
[Carter Gilliam sells his interest in his grandmother’s Elizabeth Carter’s estate to Joseph Hodgson of Fluvanna. At first glance Joseph Hodgson appears to be a Hudgins for Betsy Carter’s sister Elizabeth married John Hudgins, yet the 1850 Fluvanna census lists a Joseph Hodgson of the District of Columbia. The deed clearly reads Hodgson.]
Guardian Accounts
March 1822
William Woodson is appointed guardian for Albert and Elizabeth GILLIAM thereupon he with James A. Armstead and William A. Miller, his security, entered into and acknowledged their bond for the purpose and the penalty of $1000 condition according to law.
Cumberland Order Book 27A, 1821-1822, page 149
[James A. Armistead is the father of Elizabeth who married Zachariah Taylor, the son of Judith Gilliam and Joseph Taylor]
10 Nov 1867
Mary A. E. GILLIAM In Account with Charles W. GILLIAM her guardian
By this amount received of John J. GILLIAM administrator and commissioner of Isham GILLIAM being her interest in the estate of said Isham GILLIAM [of Buckingham].
Historical Inventory
bef 1852
Carter M. Gilliam lived at Rose Cottage
[son of Charles Manning Gilliam]
1857
Charles W. Gilliam lived at Rose Hill
[son of Isham Richardson Gilliam]
1859
Edward Gilliam lived at Barter Hill
[son of Isham Richardson Gilliam]
1876
Edward Gilliam lived at Auburn
[son of Isham Richardson Gilliam]
1936
Miss Gay Gilliam lived at Barter Hill
[daughter of Virgil Archer Gilliam]
McCrary, Patti Sue. Cumberland County Historical Inventory
Land Owners and Free Holders
1787
James Gilliam
[Listed adjacent is Robert Furlong. This also includes Carringtons, Davidsons, Taylors, etc.]
Hopewell, John S. “Handle with Care: County Loose Papers” A Petition to Clear Willis River in Cumberland County, 1774.” Magazine of Virginia Genealogy. 39:207-208 (2001).
Legislative Petitions
9 Nov 1779
To the honourable, the speaker and gentlemen of the house of Delegates. The petition of sundry inhabitants of the parish of Littleton in the County of Cumberland.
Sig: . . . James GILLIAM
Phinehas Glover Jr.
John Newton
William Newton. . .
7 Nov 1786
A petition of sundry residents of Cumberland request the House of Delegates to pass an act to prevent the residuary legatees from receiving a much greater part of their ancestor's estates than was originally intended them while the pecuniary legatees receive proportionately less. This petition is the same wording as two other petitions dated May 14, 1784.
Signatures are:
James GILLIAM...
Jos Taylor...
Thos Wilkinson...
Drury Woodson...
Marriages
30 Nov 1768
Know all men by these present that we Joseph Taylor and Michel Rowland of Cumbld County are held and firmly bound unto our Sovereign Lord King George the Third in the final sum of fifty pounds to which payment four and twenty to be made now & unto our Sovereign Lord the King his heirs and Successors recorded we bind our selves & each of our heirs ___ jointly and firmly by these presents sealed with our seals this 20th day of Novr 1768.
The condition of the above obligation is that when as there is marriage intended to be had and solemnized between Joseph Taylor and Judith GILLIAM of this parish. Now if that shall be no _____ as cause to obstruct the said marriage then the above obligation to be void otherwise to be in force.
Sealed and delivered in the presence of
Jo: Taylor
Michel Rowland
William? Turpin
This is to certify that I am agreeable for Joseph Taylor and my daughter Judith GILLIAM to join themselves in the Holy Estate of Matrimony given from under my hand this 30 day of November 1768
Jas. GILLIAM
Teste
Thomas Fearn
Michael Rowland
abt 1767
James Gilliam, Jr., marries Susannah.
22 April 1793,
Charles M. GILLIAM and Elizabeth Woodson, Surety Joseph W. Riddle
Feb 1794,
Edward Dillon & Elizabeth GILLIAM (Adm. Henry Lee, Gov. VA) Sec. Edwd Dillon, Miller Woodson.
5 Feb 1795,
Patsy GILLIAM & Paul I. [sic, Jones] Carrington adm. of Rbt. Brook
22 Feb 1826,
Charles M. GILLIAM & Elizabeth A. Carter dau of Elizabeth Carter
25 Jan 1830,
John A. Hudgins & marries Elizabeth M. Carter
28 Nov 184_
Edward GILLIAM & Virginia A. Hendrick, surety Richard C. GILLIAM
11 Dec 1856
Charles [W., see Order, 28 Nov 1859] GILLIAM, age 42, widower of Buckingham marries Lucy A. E. Crowder, age 28, single of Cumberland, the daughter of Wilson and Harriet Crowder at home of Harriet Crowder by Rev. James Spencer
Shepard, William. "Cumberland County, Virginia, Marriage Bonds." William and Mary College Quarterly Historical Magazine, 2nd Ser., Vol. 7, No. 4. (Oct., 1927), pp. 282-291.
Mercantile
John Gilliam and Company of Cumberland
Military Records
Revolutionary War
Ensign James GILLIAM
War of 1812
War of 1812, Declaration of Soldier for Pension.
State of Texas, county of Red River, 9 Oct 1872. Personally appeared before me John A. Bagby, clerk of the District Court of Red River County, James GILLIAM, aged seventy four years, a resident of Red River Co., state of Texas. Declared he was married and his wife's name was Harriet Bagby, whom he married in Buckingham Co., Va., Nov. 1822. Also states he is the James GILLIAM who enlisted in Capt. Joseph McClain's company at Cumberland Court House, Virginia in Aug. 1813, discharged at Richmond Va., Feb. 1814. Stated some months after his enlistment he was ordered to Camp Fairfield below Richmond, Va., afterwards transfered to Capt. Archer's Company. Served as Pvt.
Two Vouchers give the following
War of 1812, Act of Feb. 14, 1871.
#28235, James GILLIAM, Capt. Joseph McClain _______ to Capt. Archers Co., Virginia Militia. Enlisted Aug. 1813, Discharged Feb. 1814.
#28235, Treasury Dept. Dec. 10, 1871. Rolls of Capt. Edward Archers Co., of Virginia Militia, that James GILLIAM Pvt. served from Aug. 2,1814 to Feb. 3, 1815.
[James C. GILLIAM, is the son of Charles M. Manning and lived in Cumberland, though he married in Buckingham, before removing to Tennessee, Missouri and eventually Red River, County, TX]
Ordinary Licenses
22 Oct 1770
On the motion of James GILLIAM it was ordered that a license be issued for him to keep an ordinary at his house in this county the ensuing year whereupon he with Thomas Fearn his security entered into bond according to law.
Overview of GILLIAM's Ordinary
Parish Records
Bishop Meade in his book, Old Churches, Ministers and Families in Virginia, states "in 1745 Southam Parish was cut off from St. James Northam in Goochland County, which county then extended over the James River to the Appomattox. That on the southside of the James River was called Southam Parish." This parish, according to Meade, began in 1745 and continued until 1791. (Littleton Parish was separated from Southam Parish in 1771.)
Southam Parish Vestry
Periodicals
Virginia Gazette on 28 Jan 1773
James GILLIAM, Jr., takes out an advertisement in the Virginia Gazette on 28 Jan 1773. James found in Cumberland a dark bay mare about for feet six inches six, six years old, shod before, and branded on the near Buttock B, also a likely mare colt about two years old, neither dockt nor branded. Posted and appraised to six pounds each.
Virginia Gazette on 28 Jan 1773
Virginia Gazette 23 Apr 1785
Joseph Carrington, D. Sheriff at Cumberland, advertises for sale at Mr. James GILLIAM’s Ordinary to satisfy the taxes due, lands of Robert Jordan, William Chamberlain, John Badkin, Nathaniel W. Barker, Jacob Cohan, John Cheek, Elizabeth Forloin, Thomas Kevil, John Minton, Paul Wright and Judith Robinson.
Virginia Gazette 23 Apr 1785
2 Oct 1802
Notice
The creditors of the estate of Richard James, dec. are hereby notified that I shall attend at James Gilliam’s tavern on Saturday, the 6th day of November next all persons having claims against that said estate, are requested to come forward on that day and exhibit them for adjustment, in order that provision may be made for the final discharge of the same.
William Turpin, admr.
Cumberland 2d Oct 1802
Virginia Argus, 9 Oct 1802, page 3
[Richard James is the father of Maria Jefferson James, the wife of John Gilliam]
1 Mar 1808
Pursuant to a deed of trust executed to my by Charles M. Gilliam of Cumberland county to secure a debt therein mentioned, due to John Gilliam & Co, will be exposed for Sale on Monday the 28th inst. At Cumberland Courthouse
3 young negroes viz
John, Sally, and Lewis named to said deed to the highest bidder for ready money.
Paul S. Carrington, Trustee
Cumberland, March 1 1808
Virginia Argus, 11 Mar 1808, page 4.
Pension
Obadiah Johnson, Goochland County, VA
State of Virginia, Cumberland County to wit
#13826
On the 26th day of September, 1832 personally appeared before the county clerk of Cumberland Obediah Johnson, a resident of Goochland County in the State of Virginia who being first duly sworn according to law doth on his oath make the following declaration in order to obtain the benefit of the provision made by the act of Congress passed June the 7th 1832. That he is a native of the County of Cumberland and State of Virginia and has always resided in the county of Cumberland until recently when he moved across the James River to the County of Goochland where he now resides. That he is 67 years of age and that the register of the same is at his son's in the County of Goochland. That in the year 1780 as well as he now recalls he was drafted for a three months tour of duty in the militia of Virginia from the County of Cumberland and marched from said County under Capt Charles Ballow and formed the Southern Army under General Gates. That this officiant was in the battle of Camden when Gates was defeated and after his term of service ended he was discharged & returned home. That afterwards in January 1781, he was again drafted for a three month tour which he performed under Captain Richard Allen from the County of Cumberland and was stationed at the Long Bridge. That as soon as that term expired or very shortly afterward he marched with Captain William Meredith from Cumberland County to join the Marquis De LaFayette near Richmond and remained with the army in service until the company was discharged which from a companion of opinions and resolutions with some of the members of that company was three months. That he afterwards marched from Cumberland under Captain Richard Allen to the Siege of York and was there in service when Lord Cornwallis surrendered. The last term was also a three months term. This officiant also states that between the time of his service under Captain Meredith and his trip to the Siege of York he was called out under Lieutenant James GILLIAM and served for about 10 days at Caroline.
He hereby relinquishes any claims whatever to a pension or amenity except the present and declares that his name is not on the pension roll of any agency of any State. Sworn to and subscribed the day and year aforesaid.
Obadiah Johnson
Southern Campaign American Revolution Pension Statements. Pension Application of Obadiah Johnson: R5646. Transcribed and annotated by C. Leon Harris. www.southerncampaign.org
Petitions
Petition to Clear the Willis, at Point of the Fork, 1774
Loose Papers, 1774, Cumberland County,
Archival and Information Services Division, Library of VA
To the Worshipfull Court of Cumberland
The petition of sundry inhabitants on and adjatient [sic] to Willises River sheweth: that from the badness of the publick road leading to Markit, your petitioners are at a great expence in carrying their crops thither, much more so than they would be at if the obstructions occation’d by the logs which in may places have block’d up and hinder the navigation of Willises River were remov’d. Your petitioners . . . therefore pray that you will make an order and appoint some of your members to aggress with proper means to clear the sd. River from the Mouth to the Fork thereof, agreeable to the ____ of Assembly for Clearing Rivers and Creeks.
. . . Jno Taylor
Drury Woodson . . .
James GILLOM
Hopewell, John S. "Handle with Care: County Loose Papers: A Petition to Clear Willis River in Cumberland County, 1774." Magazine of Virginia Genealogy, Volume 39, No. 3., page 207-208.
17 Nov 1782
Calendar of Virginia State Papers
Petition to the Executive for the Pardon of Stephen Allen, condemned to death for stealing.
Signed by G. Carrington, Jr; Joseph Carrington, H. Haran, Geo. Carrington, M. Carrington, Wm. Dillon, James GILLAM, Thos. Watton, R. Baskerville, Jos. and Hezekiah Carter, Thos. Boling.
Polls
Voters 1789
. . . Carter H. Harrison
James Dowdy
Kemp Holland
James Gilliam
Robert Gilliam
William Winfree . . .
Shaw, Aurora C. The Southern Genealogist's Exchange, Southern States, 1965, page 41
6 Sep 1790, Poll Taken at Cumberland Courthouse
25 Apr 1791, Poll for House of Burgesses
Publick Claims
James GILLIAM 41 bu wheat
Page 6
George Carrington 291# stalled beef Jan. 1782 by Ben Wilson comr. State £3-12-9; 640# beef Oct. 1781 by do. £5-6-8; 259# beef Nov. 1781 by do. £2-3-2; 521# beef Oct 1781 for do. 4-6-10; 63# bacon for militia guarding for publick armies out of James River near the fork after Baron Stuben's retreat June 1781 by James GILLIAM ensign G. Carrington Jr. Col. State £2-77-3; 96# bacon for militia assisting securing publick stores at the retreat of Maj. Gen. Baron Stuben from the Point of the Fork; 43 bu wheat & carriage Nov. by Ben Wilson & Henry Skipwith Comr. State £8-12 & 6s; assne of John Jefferson 1 beef & driving Nov. 1780 by do. State £3-9-5 & 6s [total] £34-16-3.
Page 8.
Thomas Norris 1 lamb 30# for 1 dais [days] for State Regt. July 1781 by James Harper QM V.S. Regt. State 10s; 16# bacon for guard of the arms saved out of the river at the Point of the fork June by James Gillum, ensn. G. Carrington Jr. Col. Com. State 12s.
Page 30.
Research
Title: Papers of William Mynn Thornton [manuscript] 1913-26.
Description: 5 items.
Summary: The collection contains a letter of thanks, 1915 June 10, Nahant, Mass., from Henry Cabot Lodge, an essay Thomas Jefferson's Declaration of American Independence, a short genealogy of the Thornton and GILLIAM families, some U. Va. statistical notes, and a letter, 1913 Dec. 29, Washington, D. C., R. E. Sedwick? to James L. Slayden criticizing Thornton's book, The true Robert E. Lee.
William Thornton Papers, 1913-26, Accession #7150, Albert and Shirley Small Special Collections Library, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Va
Subscriptions
Subscribers to the First American Edition of Nicholson's Encyclopedia. (Philadelphia: Mitchell and Ames, 1816-1817)
Cumberland County
William M. Thornton
John GILLIAM
Subscribers to the First American Edition of Nicholson's Encyclopedia. (Philadelphia: Mitchell and Ames, 1816-1817)
Summons
28 Aug 1766
George the Third, by the Grace of God, of Great Britain, France and Ireland, King, Defender of the Faith, etc. To the Sheriff of Cumberland County, Greeting. We Command you to summon
Richard Boatright and Jesse Boatright
To appear before our Justices of our said County, at the Court House on the fourth Monday in next month
To testify and the Truth to say, in behalf of Benoni Boatright
In a certain matter of controversy in our said Court, before our said Justices
Depending and undetermined, between Mr. Benoni plt. and John GILLIAM def
And this they shall in no wise omit, under the penalty
Of £100 each. Witness Thompson Swann
Clerk of our said court, at the said Court-house, the 28th
Day of August in the seventh year of our Reign.
Thompson Swann
To the worshipful court of Cumberland County
Benoni Boatright humbly shew that
John GILLIAM stand indebted to him in £1.12.6 by amount and refuseth payment wherefore your petitioner prays judgment against him for the same with costs,
And shall pray etc.
George the third by the grace of God of Great Britain, France and Ireland King, defender of the faith, etc. to the sheriff [sic] of Cumberland county greeting we command you that you summon John GILLIAM to appear before the justices of our said County Court at the Court hours on the fourth Monday in next month to answer the petition of Benoni Boatright exhibited against
Him and have then there this writ witness
Thompson Swann, clerk of our said county court the 28th day of August in the seventh year of our reign.
Thompson Swann
November 25 1766 John Guilliam dr to
Benoni Boright [sic]
To Sixten [16] up? B rockheds? at teen [10] shillings
Dr tenn up B rockheds? at 1.12.6
[Robert GILLIAM, son of John GILLIAM, purchases land from a Daniel Boatright on 2 Feb 1793]
Cumberland County, VA,
Taxes
1782 Taxes
Personal Property Taxes
25 Mar 1791
James GILLIAM, 3 white tithes, 7 blacks above 16, 1 black age 12-16, 5 horse, 1 ordinary license.
Robert GILLIAM, 1 white tithes, 2 blacks above 16, 0 blacks age 12-16, 1 horse
Binns Genealogy. 1790/1800 County Tax Lists of Virginia. Personal B, page 5
28 Apr 1800
Charles M. GILLIAM, 4 blacks above 16, 2 horses, taxes $2.
Binns Genealogy. 1790/1800 County Tax Lists of Virginia. Personal, page 10
14 May 1800
James GILLIAM, 6 blacks above 16, 1 black age 12-16, 2 horses, 1 ordinary license, taxes $15.82
Binns Genealogy. 1790/1800 County Tax Lists of Virginia. Personal, page 11
26 May 1800
John GILLIAM, 3 blacks above 16, 6 horses, taxes $2.04
Binns Genealogy. 1790/1800 County Tax Lists of Virginia. Personal, page 11
Summary of Personal Property Taxes
Tithes
Tithes of 1758
1759
Col. George Carrington, 12 tithes
Benj. Neatherland, 13 tithes
Colloar Basdell, 13 tithes
Saml. Taylor, 6 tithes
Jeames GILLIAM, 3 tithes
Kolbe, J. C. Cumberland County Tithables Lists for 1759. The Southside Virginian. Volume 2, Oct 1983-July 1984, page 111.
[James GILLIAM who purchased land in 1759, from George Carrington and Samuel Taylor]
Tithes of 1759
Tithes of 1763
Tithes of 1765
Tithes of 1768
Voter Registration
Virginia Voters
7 Jan 1789
A poll taken by Ben Wilson, Sheriff of Cumberland at the Courthouse the 7th day of January 1789 for the choice of an Electer of the President and Vice-President of Congress.
James GILLAM,
Robert GILLIAM
This day William Powell one of the Clerks for taking the above poll for the Election of an Elector in the said County come before me and made oath that the same was fairly and impartially taken certified under my hand this 8th day of January 1789.
Sig: Nathl Carrington
Cumberland County, VA, Deed Book 6, pages 495-497
Wills and Estates
Inventory of John GILLIAM ( -1765)
5 May 1768
Will of Jonas Meador
The will of Jonas Meadors Sr. dated 5th May 1768. Pro. 22 August 1768. Will Book 1, page 361
From the same abstract, this account of the administrator from Will Bk. 2, p. 257:
Account of the administration of estate of Jonas Meador. By Jehu Meador, admin. paid; to James Holloway; to Richard James; to James Holloway on account of Lewis Turner, orphan of Michajah Turner; to William Hill; Drury Hudgens; to Thomas Holand [sic]; Sam Holloway for account of Jesse Boatright; Wm. Saunderson; James Minter; John Creasy; Richard Blands; Caleb Hughes for Thos. Kevil for work don[e]; Zach McGwin for James GUILLIAM; Jesse Meador for his account; Wm. Hughes for Randolph Robinson; Holloway Hudgens for account of Robert Hudgens; Wm. Hix for Jonas Meador bond on Joel Meador; James Holloway on account of Lewis Turner estate; Dal Boatright; John Murry for bond of Jane Meador; paid Wm. Edwards; Hezekiah Bradley for John Burton's account; George Carrington for account of Wm. Holland; Joseph Palmore, Alex and Peterfield Trent & Co.; Daniel Bates; Richard Crump; Miller Burford; Thos. Sugt. Hill; Hannah Holloway for his account [sic]; James Minter for Sarah Meador, orphan of Jonas Meador; Thomas Kevil for board and clothing for Ann Meador; Jesse Thomas; bond vs. Caleb Hughes 1773; Bond vs. Thomas Hughes, 1773; Micajah Compton and his wife; Thomas Kevil; due Lewis Turner, orphan of Micajah. In obedience to order of court account was dated 23 Nov. 1778. Acct. examined and ordered recorded 18 Oct. 1779. Jos. Carrington.
Cumberland County, VA, Will Book 2, page 257
22 Nov 1773
Appraisal of Estate of John Carter
James GILLIAM, Jr., Wm. Dillon and John Creasy appraised the estate of John Carter.
Cumberland County, VA, Will Book 2, page 114
Will of James GILLIAM (1711-1774) of Littleton Parish, Cumberland County
Cumberland County, VA, Will Book 2, Pages 154-156 Settlement of Estate of James Gilliam, Sr.
Cumberland County, VA, Will Book 3, page 12926 Jun 1786
Inventory of George Carrington
Inventory and appraisal of slaves and personal estate of George Carrington, the elder, late of Cumberland Co., taken 4 Mar 1785, by Richard James, John Woodson, James GILLIAM.
Cumberland County, VA, Will Book 2, page 399
7 May 1788
Will of Drury Woodson
[Elizabeth, the daughter of Drury, married Charles M. Gilliam]
Cumberland County, VA, Will Book 2, page 447
29 Nov 1800
Will of Richard James
I Richard James of the county of Cumberland and State of Virginia being in an infirm state of health and sound disposing mind and memory do make this my last will and testament hereby revoking and making null and void all wills by me heretofore made and desire the disposition of my estate in manner following. I give and bequeath to my dear beloved and truly affectionate wife, Mary James the following slaves, namely Nancy and her children known by the names of Isaac, Ned, Charles and Henry. Also three other slaves named Phill, Charles and Sall, moreover I give to my said wife all my household and other furniture of every kind, all my stocks of cattle, sheep and hogs of which I may die possessed to her and her heirs or assigns forever; I also give to my said wife for and during her natural life the sum of two hundred dollars per annum to be punctually paid to her or any others person legally authorized by to receive the same out of the rents and profits of my manufacturing Mills known by the names of Muddy Creek Mills and so much of the tenement annexed to the said Mills now in the occupancy of John and Edward Cunningham as lies on the north side of the publick marcked road commonly known by the name of River Road crossing Muddy Creek within a short space of the south front of the said Mills, I further give to my said wife during her natural life from the end of two years after my decease the free use and profit of that part of my land lying on Muddy Creek and JamesRiver whereas I now reside and between the above mentioned Road and James River, except so much tthereof as are under lease to John and Edward Cunning ham which includes the Mills above mentioned and the tenements thereto annexed whereas Edward Cunning ham at this time resides. From the high confidence which I have repose and entertain in the integrity & just disposition of my friends William Turpin of the County of Cumberland and Thomas Pemberton of Goochland County
I give in trust to them for the uses and trusts contained in a Trust deed bearing equal dates with this my last will and testament for the purpose of securing a suitable maintenance to my son Frances J. James and Nancy his wife and of the maintenance and education of their children all that part of my estate real and personal expressed and mentioned in the said deed of trusts for uses aforesaid expressed and thereto will more fully appears. My Black Smith Shop and tools and the ground on which it sits in the town of Cartersville, I will and desire shall remain united with the other part of my estate until the end of two years after my decease.
With the expiration of which time, the said Shop and tools be delivered and remain in possession of my son Francis J. James until his son Richard James shall attain the age of twenty three years at which time I give and bequeath the same to the said Richard his heirs or assigns forever and if the said Richard shall depart this life before he attains the age aforesaid I give the said shop tools and appurtenances to be equally divided amount the surviving children of the said Francis and Nancy his wife the rents and profits of which are to be applied to the use maintenance and education of the said children.
I give and devise to my sons Frederick William James, and William James my manufacturing Mills on Muddy Creek with so much of the tenement now under lease to John and Edward Cunningham as lies on the north side of the River Road whereas Edward Cunningham family resides to be delivered to them at the expiration of the present lease to be shared between them, their heirs and assigns forever subject however to the annual payment of two hundred dollars to my wife during her natural life, as before mentioned; also subject to the payment of two hundred pounds, to each of my daughters, Kitty and Maria Jefferson James, I also give my said sons Frederick and William, to be equally divided between them their heirs or assigns forever to be possessed by them their respective heirs or assigns at the end of the year in which my wife shall depart this life all the lands lying the north side of the river road the uses and profits of which are herein before given to my said wife during her natural life; the quantity of which not being yet assertained and bounded on the North side of James River Westwardly by the outlines of the town of Cartersville, the lands of James Fowler, and the legal representatives of John Woodson late of Carters Ferry deceased southwardly by the river road, aforesaid & easterly by Muddy Creek and also bounded by the lines of the tenements herein before mentioned as being annexed to the Muddy Creek Mills whose lands are nevertheless to be held by the said Frederick and William their heirs or assigns subject to the payment of four hundred pounds that is two hundred pounds to each of my daughters, Kitty and Maria Jefferson James, to be paid in two years after they shall become possessed of the said land. I give to my said son Frederick William a Negro boy named Peter now about fifteen years of age and my daughter Maria Jefferson a Negro girl named Edy now about seven years of age. The lots and tenement I purchased of Elizabeth Todd in the town of Manchester which I afterwards sold to John Tabb of Amelia County for which I have received valuable consideration I desire and request my Executors to pass deed if conveyance in the simple for the said lot and tenement to the legal representatives of the said
John Tabb when they shall be thereto acquired. My Lot No. 2 in the town of Cartersville on which the brick store now stands at present occupied by Benfords and Hobson, I desire may remain united with the other parts of my estate until the end of two years after my decease at the expiration of which time, I give and bequeath the said lot to by two daughters., Kitty and Maria Jefferson to be held by them in joint tenancy equally enjoying the rents issuing and profits thereof to them and heirs or assigns forever. I give and bequeath to by grandson Richard James the son of Francis one Negro boy named George, about eight years of age, to him and his heirs assigns. The money arising from the sale of my improved lot in the City of Richmond conveyed to Edward Carrington and William Duval in trust for the purpose of discharging the legal claims against my son Francis James and James McComb by a composition purposed to his and their executors it is my will and desire that if the said creditors shall give to the said Francis a full acquittal and exoneration from all further or other demands that they receive the money in the hands of my trustees in proportion to their several claims, provided it is acceded to within the term of two years from the date of my death, otherwise my executors receive the net amount of the sales of the said lot and place the same lot and legal interest on the best security they can obtain, the principal and interest to be applied to the benefit of the children of my said son Francis J. James. All the remainder of my slaves not herein otherwise disposed of I give to be equally divided among my sons Frederick William, William, my daughters, Kitty and Maria Jefferson, but such division not to take place until the end of two years after my decease. My will and desire is that my estate be kept united till the end of two year after my decease for the purpose of raising sufficient funds to enable my executors to discharge all just debits and continent charges which maybe necessary and rightfully be chargeable to my estate including the repairs which my be
necessary to the Muddy Creek Mills and the improvements on the tenements thereto annexed as before described also to enable the trustees herein before named for the property herein divided for the benefit of my son Francis, his wife and children; so compleat the Grist and corn Mill now erecting on deep run; but it not be understood that the provisions herein made are to effect in any degree
the claim of my wife to the sum of two hundred dollars per annum is bequeathed to her out of the profits of the Muddy Creek Mills. It is also my will and desire that the expense of all necessary repairs to the Muddy Creek Mills previous to their being delivered Frederick and William shall be paid out of the profits of my Estate. Notwithstanding that the profits of my Estate together with such debts as may be found due to me shall appear to my executors inadequate to the purposes herein mentioned so as the same may be accomplished in due time by said Executors are hereby vested with a discretionary power of selling as many of the slaves contained in the residuary clause of this will as they shall think necessary to raise sufficient sum for the purposes aforesaid in aid of the funds herein otherwise provided. It is my further will and desire that if the profits of my estate at the expiration of two years after my decease should yield a surplus of money in the hands of my Executors, unappropriated or as necessary to defray the aforesaid enumerated charges that the same be equally divided amount my sons Frederick William, William, my daughters, Kitty and Maria Jefferson.
And lastly I do nominate and appoint Joseph Carrington, John Swann the elder Willis Wilson executors of this my last will and testament.
In witness whereas I have hereunto set my hand & affixed my seal this 29th day of November one thousand eight hundred.
Sig: Richard James [seal]
Signed sealed acknowledged and delivered in presence of:
Edward Dillon
F. W. Webber
Miller Woodson
Cumberland County, VA, Will Book 3, pages 187-190
[Father of Maria Jefferson James who married John Gilliam of Maiden’s Adventure]
1811
Will of Thomas Wilkinson
[Husband of Sarah Gilliam]
Cumberland County, VA, Will Book 4, page 67
11 March 1811
Will of William James
In the name of God Amen, I William James of the county of Cumberland and state of Virginia, being weak in body, but of sound mind and disposing memory, do make and ordain this writing to be my last will and testament.
Imprimis
I give to my beloved wife Elizabeth James the use of all my estate both real and personal, for the support of herself and my children: William Turpin James, Francis Herbert James and Richard Sydney James until my oldest surviving child shall arrive at the age of twenty one years’ then the whole of my estate to be divided between my children first giving to my wife one third part thereof during her natural life which one third part I wish her to devise to my children, or the survivors of them in such proportion or proportions as she may think proper.
Lastly, I do hereby constitute and appoint my trust friends Samuel Ayres, Frederick Wm James, and John Gilliam; executors of this my last will and testament hereby revoking all others.
In testimony where of I have hereunto set my hands and affixed my seal this eleventh day of March in the year of our Lord, one thousand, eight hundred eleven.
Sig: Wm James
Signed, seal’d published and declared by the testators as his last Will and Testament in presence of us who subscribed our names to the same as writing at his request.
Wit: F. B. Deane, Hugh Watson, Frans J. James, T. Turpin
Cumberland July Court 1811
This last Will and Testament of Wm. James decd was exhibited in court and proved by Francis B. Deane, and Hugh Watson two witnesses thereto and ordered to be recorded. And Saml Ayres, Frederick Wm James and John Gilliam the executors named in the said Will came into court and renounced the executorships of said Will and on the motion of Elizabeth James who made oath according to law the administration with the Will annexed of the estate of said Wm. James is granted her she having taken the oath prescribed by law and entered into bond and security.
Teste
Miller Woodson, DC
Cumberland County Will Book 4, page 33
[John Gilliam is appointed one of the Executors of the Will of William James. William’ sister, Maria Jefferson James, married John Gilliam. William’s son, Francis Herbert James, married Elizabeth H. Gilliam, the daughter of of John Gilliam and Maria.]
1813
Papers Richard E. (Richard Eggleston), Cunningham, 1885-1932.
Contains business and legal papers of the Cunningham family.
Estate of Richard Cunningham in Cumberland County, Va., made by John GILLIAM, John Daniel, and William M. Thornton
Virginia Historical Society, Mss1 C9175 a 4-15
Will of Stephen Woodson of Cumberland County
8 Jun 1813
To grandson Henry H. Woodson, 16 negroes by name Robin, Mary, Jude, Sabra, Nancy, Rachel, Julian, Sucky, Alex., Eliza, James, Billy, Charles, Archer, Dick, and Ben with their future increase. To grandson Joseph R. Woodson , 13 negroes by name; James, Bob, David, Timmer, Polly, Amy, Linny, Jenny, Tilly, Billy, Critty, Albert and Nelly with their future increase. To sd. grandson Joseph R. Woodson , land whereon I now live containing four hundred & forty acres. To grandson Stephen T. Woodson ten negroes, by name; Rachel, Isbell, Hannah, John, Matt, Abby, Cupid, Thomas, Farthing , and Chloe , with their future increase. In addition to negroes herein given to Grandson Stephen T. Woodson, exors, hereinafter mentioned, pay unto him or his heirs out of my estate the sum of $2000, for which purpose (should I not leave money and bonds to that amount) I direct that my five negro watermen, by names Tinner, Charles, Cupid, Archer, & Tom shall be hired out from year to year until said sum of $2000, shall be acquired. To grand daughter Judith T. Allen, 10 negroes, by name, Milly, & her child May, Betty & her four children named John, Amy, Sucky, & Dick, Jane & her child-named Winney, & Sally, the latter at this time lives with Henry Woodson, to have & enjoy the sd. negroes during her natural life and at her death to be equally divided amongst the heirs of her body or in case she should die without a surviving child or children said negroes with their increase shall return to my three grandsons as above named or their heirs. One half of stock of sheep and horses to be the property of my grandson Henry H. Woodson, and remainder of stock of every description Household & kitchen furniture and plantation utensils, and Gig not otherwise herein bequeathed to grandson Joseph R. Woodson. To grandson Stephen T. Woodson a Bed & furniture, a mare called Polly Watkins and her two colts, two four legged pine tables, & four windsor chairs, remainder of property not herein enumerated should there be any shall be equally divided between three grandsons Henry H. Woodson, Joseph R. Woodson and Stephen T. Woodson as above mentioned and I do appoint my three grandsons Executors.
No appraisement or Inventory shall be made of my estate.
Dated June 8, 1813.
Witnesses: John GILLIAM, Stephen W. Trent, H. Skipwith Jr.
Proved: July Crt. 1813.
Cumberland County, VA, Will Book 4, p. 248.
Ancestry.com. Valentine Papers (Virginia), Vol. 1-4, 1864-1908. [database online] Provo, UT: Ancestry.com, 2001. Original data: Edward P. Valentine, The Edward Pleasants Valentine Papers, Vol. 1-4, 1864-1908. Richmond, VA: The Valentine Museum.
Will of Jesse Carter
12 Apr 1823
I Jesse Carter of the County of Cumberland being of sound disposing mind and memory do make this my last Will and testament in manner and words following
First, I desire all my just debts to be paid, I desire that my land should be sold to assist in paying my debts and after paying my sd debts I give to my wife Betsy all my estate during her natural life after her decease I give and bequeath it to all my children to be equally divided among them and their heirs forever. I hereby constitute Thomas Montague Sr and my son Thomas Carter executor to this my last Will and Testament hereby revoking all wills heretofore made by me.
In witness whereof I have hereunto subscribed my hand and seal, April 12 1823.
Sig: Jesse Carter
Signed, sealed and delivered in the presence of teste, James Carter, Eliza A. Carter, Elizabeth Carter.
At a court held for Cumberland County the 26th day of January 1824. This last Will and Testament of Jesse Carter, decd was presented in Court and proved by the oath of Eliza A. Carter, a witness thereto at a Court held for said County the 24th day of June 1824. This Last Will and Testament of Jesse Carter decd was again presented in Court and further proved by the oath of Elizabeth Carter a witness thereto ordered the same be recorded. On the motion of Thomas Montague Exor in said Will named, who with Hull C. Hill his security entered into and acknowledged their bond for the purpose in the penalty of three hundred dollars conditioned according to law and took the oath required by law, certificate for obtaining a probate thereof in due form is granted him.
Teste William Powell, DC
[Jesse Carter was the grandfather of Carter Montague Gilliam]
Cumberland County, VA, Will Book 7, page 203
2 Mar 1825
Will of Paul Jones Carrington
[The son of Joseph Carrington and Theodosia Mosby. Paul married Martha “Patsy” Gilliam, the daughter of James Gilliam, Jr of Cumberland County, and later Powhatan County, VA]
Cumberland County, VA, Will Book 8, page 161-162
Will of Thomas Montague
9 Sep 1839
I Thomas Montague of the county of Cumberland and state of Virginia, do make this my last will and Testament in manner and form following, that is to say, After the payment of my funeral expenses and all my just debts I lend to my beloved wife Sarah Montague all my estate both real and personal during the term of her natural life and after her death it is my will that it be divided in the following manner.
First, I lend to my daughter Betsey Carter during her life the following negroes to wit, Ann, Sam, Sidney, and her William and their future increase and after her death, I give the said Negros to her children and their heirs forever, including my great grandson Carter GILLIAM and his heirs forever.
Second I lend to my daughter Polly D. Isbell during her life the following Negros to wit, Maurice, Jane, Martha, Lindsey, John, Louisa, Celia, and their future increase and after her death I give the said Negros to her children and their heirs forever.
Third my will and desire is that the following negroes to wit, Charles, Jim, Nancy, Betty, Mary, Burley, and Robert and their future increase may be laid off into two equal lots, one lot I give to my daughter Nancy B. Gill and her heirs forever, the other lot of Negros to be equally divided among the children of my deceased Sally Palmore and their heirs except her son John and the portion which is saved by this exception I give to his son William Palmore and his heirs forever.
Fourth after the death of my wife I desire that the land I now reside on may be sold as well as all my stock, household, kitchen furniture and plantation utensils of every description and the money arising there from be divided into three equal parts one part of lot I give to my daughter Betsy Carter and her heirs, one other part or lot I give to my daughter Nancy B. Hill and her heirs and the other parts or lot to be equally divided among the children of my deceased daughter Sally Palmore and their heirs, her son John excepted and the portion which is save by this exception I give to his sons William Palmore and his heirs.
Fifth I hereby constitute and appoint James Isbell and Hull C. Hill my executors to this my last Will and Testament, hereby revoking all others or former wills or testaments by me heretofore made, In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed my seal this ninth day of September one thousand eight hundred and thirty-nine.
Signed, sealed and published
Sig: Thomas Montague
In presence of us
R. H. Montague, Thos. D. Armistead, William R. Bradley
At a court held for Cumberland County the 27th day of April 1840 the foregoing Last Will and Testament of Thomas Montague deceased, was presented in Court and proved by the oaths of Randolph H. Montague and William R. Bradley two subscribing witnesses thereto and ordered to be recorded and on the motion of James Isbell one of the executors therein named who make oath thereto and together with Jos Fuqua and Lewis M. Isbell his securities entered into and acknowledged their bond in the penalty of thirty thousand dollars conditioned as the law directs certificate is granted him for obtains probate of the said Will in due form, liberty being reserved to the other executor named in the said will to join in the probate when he shall think fit and in Cumberland April etc. 1841. This Will was proved by Thomas D. Armistead a third witness thereto.
Teste B. B. Woodson
[Carter M. Gilliam is the son of Charles Gillam and Eliza “Betsy” Carter. Eliza was the daughter of Jesse Carter and Elizabeth Montague. Elizabeth was the daughter of Thomas Montague. According to Chancery records Charles Gilliam died about 1827. It appears that Betsy was living at the writing of Thomas’ Will.]
Cumberland County, VA, Will Book 10, page 215
Will of Elizabeth Carter
10 Oct 1849
In the name of God Amen. I Elizabeth Carter of Cumberland County and State of Virginia being sick, but of sound disposing mind do make this my last will and testament revoking all others by me made heretofore.
First, I give to my grandson Carter M. Gilliham one bed with a yarn counterpane bed quilt and two sheets and bedstead.
Secondly, I give my granddaughter, Sarah Alles [Alice] Levina Palmore twenty dollars to be give to her as my executor hereafter named may at any time so that she may require it.
The balance of my estate be it money or other property of whatsoever it may be I wish equally divided between my children Everard Carter, Sarah M. Toler and Betsy M. Hudgins and my grandchildren Carter M. Gilliham and Sarah Alles [Alice] Lavina Palmore after seeing that just debts are paid.
Lastly, I appoint my son Everard Carter my executor to this my last will and testament it is further m wish that my executor be not bound to security. In witness whereof I set my hand and affix my seal this tenth day of October 1849.
Elizabeth Carter
In present of
William Montague, Alexander T. Goodman, Isaac Foster.
November 26, 1849
Security Jos. W. Palmore and Wm. L. Toler.
At a court held for Cumberland County the 26th day of November 1849 this last will and testament of Elizabeth Carter deceased was presented in court, proved by the oath of Isaac Foster one of the subscribing witnesses thereto and continued for further proof. And at a court held for said County the 24th day of December 1849 this Will was again presented in court and further proved by the oath of Alexander T. Goodman another subscribing witness thereto and ordered to be recorded. And on the motion of Everard Carter, the executor in said Will named who made oath thereto and together with Jos. W. Palmore and Wm. L. Toler his securities (who justified to their sufficiency) entered into and acknowledged a bond in the penalty of $600.00 conditioned as the law directs, a certificate is granted him for obtaining a probated of the said Will in due form.
Teste
B B Woodson, C
Cumberland County, VA, Will Book 11, page 463Will of Elizabeth Carter [daughter of Thomas Montague]
Items bequeathed to Carter M. GILLIAM, William L. Toler, Jos. W. Palmore, John A. Hudgins and wife and Everard L. Carter.
Cumberland County, VA, Will Book 12, page 33
5 Nov 1851
Will of Catherine James
I Catherine James of the County of Powhatan do make and ordain this my last Will and Testament in manner and form following viz.
First, It is my wish that my Negroes Absalom & Polly shall have the privilege of selecting their masters to effect, which I hereby authorize my Exor herein after named in providing the comfort and happiness of said negroes to make such assignments as they my said Exors may in their judgment dean most advisable.
Item, I leave to my niece C. Alice James at her marriage or at her other’s death or on her arrival at twenty-five years of age my negro girl Ellen and any increase she may have a at my death until the happening of either of the above writs (viz) the marriage of the said Alice James, her arrival at 25 years of age or the death of her mother Elizabeth James, I leave the said girl Ellen and her increase to the said Elizabeth James. If the said Alice James should die leaving no child or children or their representatives living at the time of her death, then I wish the said girl Ellen and increase to go in trust for Herbert James & his wife Elizabeth to be held for their benefit during their lives and, at their death to be equally divided among all their children or their representatives living at the death of the said Herbert and Elizabeth.
Item, I leave all the rest of my estate, money, household furniture, etc, to be equally divided between my two nieces Polly Field & Alice James with this understanding that before the said Polly Fields and Alive shall come in for any portion of the property heretofore conveyed by me in trust for the benefit of their father & mothers and at their death to be equally divided among all their children, the said Polly Field, and Alice shall first bring into _______ all that I leave them _____ Will without interest.
I leave Jno Gilliam and Richard J. Gilliam Exors of this Will a request that the Court will permit them or either of them to qualify ____ being required to give security
In Testimony_____ I have hereunto set my hand, affixed my seal this 3d day of February 1850.
Sig: Catherine James
Wit: William Overton, W. Turpin, Reuben Ragland
At a Court held for Powhatan County on Wednesday the 5th day of Novem 1851 the foregoing last Will of Catherine James was present in Court and proved by the oaths of Wm Overton, W. Turpin, and Reuben Ragland subscribing witnesses thereto & ordered to be recorded and ion the motion of R J. Gilliam one of the Exors therein named took the oak prescribed by Law and entered into bond without security in penalty of $5000 (The Will directing that no security shall be required conditioned as the law directs, a certificate is granted hem for obtaining probate of said Will in due form and the said bon is ordered to e recorded.
Teste: Wm S. Daniel
Know all men by these presents that I Richard J. Gilliam am held firmly bound unto the Commonwealth of Virginia in the sum of Five thousand dollars to the payment whereof ____ to be made to the said Commonwealth I bind myself ____ Exors and admr firmly by these presents. Sealed with my seal and dated this 5th day of November one thousand eight hundred & fifth one
The condition of this obligation is such that if the above Richard J. Gilliam who has been this day allowed by the county Court of Powhatan to qualify as Executor of the last Will and Testament of Catherine James decd shall faithfully discharge the duties as Executor of the said Will, then the above obligation to be _____ otherwise remain in full force and virtue.
Sig: Richard J. Gilliam
Executed in presence of
Powhatan County Court and ordered to be recorded
Teste
Wm S. Daniel
Know all men by these presents that we Frances H. James, Fabius M Lawson, Rich’d J. Gilliam and Wm Overton are held & firmly bound unto the Commonwealth of Virginia in the sum of five thousand dollars to the payment whereof will & truly be made to the said Commonwealth, we bind ourselves and each of us ___ and each of our heirs, Exors and admrs jointly and severally firmly by these presents sealed with our seals and dated this 5th day of Novem one thousand, eight hundred and fifty one
The condition of the, this obligation as such that if the above ___ Francis H James, who has been this day appointed guardian of his infant children Polly Field James and Alice C. James who are entitled to property independent of their father shall faithfully discharge his duties as guardian of his said children, them, the above obligation to be void otherwise to remain in full force and virtue.
Sig: F. H. James, R. J. Gilliam, William Overton, Fabius M. Lawson,
Executed in presence of Powhatan County Court & ordered to be recorded
Teste: Wm S. Daniel
Powhatan County, VA, Will Book 14, page 157.
[Catherine “Kitty” James, the sister of Maria Jefferson James who married John Gilliam, was the daughter of Richard James and Mary Turpin. Catherine lived with John and Maria most of her adult life. A Codicil to John’s Will mentions monies he has in hand that he is holding for Catherine. John states that Catherine is to be supported out of his estate. Catherine remembers her grand nieces, the children of Herbert Francis James and Elizabeth H. Gilliam, his wife, in her Will.]
2 Jul 1895
Will of Edward GILLIAM
I Edward GILLIAM of the County of Cumberland, State of Virginia being of sound disposing mind and memory do hereby make and ordain this my last will and testament revoking all former wills
Item 1:
Item 2: To daughter Maria E. Price and son, Sidney S. GILLIAM
Item 3: To sons Gulielmus C[oleman] GILLIAM, and Virgil A. GILLIAM, daughter Marie E. Price and son Sidney S. GILLIAM, wife Judith A. GILLIAM [Gulielmus is a Coleman family name]
Item 4: To daughter Marie E. Price and son Virgil A. GILLIAM
Item 5: To daughter Sarah Price Perkins
Item 6:
Item 7: I appoint three sons G. C. GILLIAM, V. A. GILLIAM and S. S. GILLIAM, executors of this my last will and testament.
Witness: Edward GILLIAM, Emmett G. Dowdy, James B. Godsey
Cumberland County, VA, Will Book 14, page 173
3 Jun 1900
Will of Robert GILLIAM
Considering the certainty of death and not knowing when it may come I, Robert GILLIAM of the County of Cumberland, State of Virginia, do make this my last will and testament which revokes all other heretofore made up to this date, it is this that after my decease or death that I after my burial expenses are paid I give unto Albert GILLIAM, Sr. [unclear, possibly Jr.] my brother and his wife Polly GILLIAM all of my real estate owned by me and lieing [sic] and being in the County of Buckingham and in the State of Virginia also any rents or profits due on the real estate composed of forty acres of land more or less lieing [sic] and being near Curdsville with its appurtenances included to Albert GILLIAM Sr.[Jr.?] and Polly GILLIAM, his wife, all of which is given in free _____ right to do as they please with and I also do appoint A. B. Armstrong as my executor and do request that the court that this will is recorded in shall not require him to give any security for acting as executor, given under my hand and seal on this 3rd day of June 1900.
Robert GILLIAM
Witness H. A. Blanton, C. W. Flippen
Cumberland County, VA, Will Book 14, page 229
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