Updated November 25, 2022
Background
Overview
It is not certain that there is a connection between the Gilliams of Massachusetts and the Gilliams of Virginia. It has been claimed that a daughter of Benjamin Gilliam married Alexander Toney of New Kent County, VA. To date, I have seen no evidence of such a union. The given name Benjamin is rare among early Gilliams. The first appearance is that of Benjamin Dunn Gilliam born about 1767.
One Massachusetts Gilliam that was likely in early Virginia was Capt. Zachariah Gilliam, the second son of Benjamin Gillam. He is felt by many to be one of the ringleaders of the Culpepper Rebellion of Albemarle Sound, NC.
For information on specific counties and cities:
Boston
Various records relating to Gilliams that settled in Boston, MA
Sources