Updated December 24, 2023
Background
Prince Edward County was named in honor of Edward Augustus, a son of Prince Frederick Louis, a grandson of George II, and a younger brother of George III. The county was formed from Amelia County in 1753. Its area is 357 square miles, and the county seat is Farmville.
Parishes
Saint Patrick's Parish, 1755
Overview
Bibles
GILLIAM family Bible record, 1814-1913.
2 leaves.
Notes and Summaries:
The record is a typed transcript. Areas covered are Missouri and Prince Edward County, Virginia. Other surnames mentioned: Ayres, Barnett, Brown, Franklin, Guitar, Houston, Hubbell, Hughes, Kinsell, Lacy, Moorman, Parrish, Swinney, Woodson, and Young.
Library of Virginia. Bible of Fayette Henry and Ann Elizabeth (Ayres) GILLIAM.
Cemeteries
Westview Cemetery
South Main Street
Farmville, Prince Edward County, VA
Several different GILLIAM families are buried in Westview Cemetery. All are descendants of James GILLIAM, Jr. and Martha "Patsy" Mathews, his wife. Martha is the daughter of Philip Mathews. James is the son of James GILLIAM, Sr., and Frances Hopkins.
The first includes two of the children and Moses Everard GILLIAM and Catherine Temple Jennings, his wife, namely John Jennings GILLIAM and Wyndham Macon GILLIAM who often went by Macon. John Jennings GILLIAM married Mary Turner Hatchett. They along with John Hugh, and Rob Roy, their children, are buried at Westview. (Rob Roy's son, Thomas Roy GILLIAM, is also buried here, as well as the wife of John Hugh GILLIAM, Annie Garnett.) Wyndham Macon GILLIAM and Sallie Fontaine, his wife, along with their sons Walter Scott GILLIAM and Wyndham Mercer GILLIAM and his wife, Virginia Hughes, are also buried in Westview.
Another GILLIAM family is that of Wiley P. GILLIAM, who is a cousin of the above GILLIAMs. Wiley is the son of Jerman GILLIAM and Mary Campbell, his second wife. Wiley and both of his wives, Mary Frances and Nannie E., along with Mary Frances' son, Daniel GILLIAM and Elizabeth Blanton, his wife, are buried at Westview.
Also buried at Westview are Ella F. GILLIAM and Janie Lee GILLIAM, two of the daughters of James Henry GILLIAM and Fletcher, his wife.
| Name | Birth | Death |
GILLIAM, Annie Garnett | Jan. 31, 1882 | Feb. 17, 1970 |
GILLIAM, Daniel W. | 1875 | 1948 |
GILLIAM, Elizabeth Blanton | 1877 | 1945 |
GILLIAM, Ella F. | Jan. 21, 1884 | Aug. 3, 1980 |
GILLIAM, Elva Selden | 1878 | 1962 |
GILLIAM, Fannie G. | 1908 | 1997 |
GILLIAM, Floreine T. | 1910 | 1925 |
GILLIAM, H. Hopkins | 1873 | 1936 |
GILLIAM, Janie L. | Dec. 28, 1887 | May 29, 1988 |
GILLIAM, Joan Bland | 1932 | 1974 |
GILLIAM, John Hugh | Mar. 8, 1883 | Feb. 8, 1974 |
GILLIAM, John J. | Mar. 9, 1856 | Jan. 12, 1956 |
GILLIAM, Mary Frances | Jul. 22, 1846 | Aug. 8, 1893 |
GILLIAM, Mary T. Hatchett | Jun. 2, 1860 | Jun. 5, 1930 |
GILLIAM, Nannie E. | Dec. 17, 1848 | Aug. 16, 1926 |
GILLIAM, Rob Roy | 1890 | 1934 |
GILLIAM, Sallie Fontaine | Oct. 10, 1860 | Jun. 20, 1931 |
GILLIAM, Tom Roy | 1923 | 1978 |
GILLIAM, Virginia Hughes | Nov. 28, 1903 | Sep. 7, 1992 |
GILLIAM, Wallace H. | 1909 | 1968 |
GILLIAM, Walter Scott | Jun. 8, 1894 | May 2, 1915 |
GILLIAM, Willy P. | Dec. 20, 1844 | Oct. 3, 1905 |
GILLIAM, Wyndham Macon | Feb. 13, 1853 | Oct. 17, 1934 |
GILLIAM, Wyndham Mercer | Jul. 18, 1892 | Nov. 28, 1972 |
[Thomas Roy Gilliam is not buried at Westview; the stone there is in memory of Thomas Roy Gilliam, he was buried in Highland Springs.]
Bethpeor Baptist Church Cemetery
In the Five Forks area, the land for Bethpeor Church was conveyed from J. S. Harris to the trustees C. O. Harris and G. W. GILLIAM. The church was formally constituted in 1912. Rev. W. A. Peasron was the first pastor.
GILLIAM, Arthur Bennett | 23 Dec 1875 | 16 Oct 1962 |
| GILLIAM, Bennet C | 7 Apr 1906 | 21 Feb 1984 |
| GILLIAM, Ellen Margie | 7 Nov 2001 | 7 Nov 2001 |
| GILLIAM, Eula Turns | 10 Sep 1916 | 10 Oct 1999 |
| GILLIAM, Llewellyn Walker | 1 Dec 1911 | 14 May 2001 |
| GILLIAM, Luther Rice | 25 Nov 1875 | 9 Feb 1943 |
| GILLIAM, Mary Turns | 9 May 1909 | 25 Oct 1970 |
| GILLIAM, Nannie Wilkerson | 1 Aug 1875 | 25 Jun 1973 |
| GILLIAM, Rhena Leigh | 26 Dec 1901 | 2 Jul 1902 |
| GILLIAM, Sallie O | 11 Dec 1878 | 13 Feb 1970 |
| GILLIAM, Waverly R. | 6 Oct 1910 | 25 Oct 1970 |
Olive Branch Cemetery, Prospect
| GILLIAM, Audrey S | 1924 | 2000 |
| GILLIAM, Clyde G | 13 Nov 1932 | 26 Dec. 2007 |
| GILLIAM, Clyde W | 23 Sep 1909 | 24 Dec 1979 |
| GILLIAM, D Benjamin | 24 May 1978 | 9 Jul 1978 |
| GILLIAM, Inez Chick | 12 Aug 1887 | 18 Jan 1978 |
| GILLIAM, James Aubrey | 6 Jun 1882 | 9 Sep 1975 |
| GILLIAM, Jr., James Aubrey | 7 May 1917 | 28 Nov 2003 |
| GILLIAM, Janie Frances | 1 Jan 1941 | 2 Nov 1951 |
| GILLIAM, June J | 1 Jun 1924 | 3 Jan 1985 |
| GILLIAM, Laura A | 6 Feb 1903 | 24 Aug 1981 |
| GILLIAM, Lona R | 4 Feb 1882 | 13 Jun 1971 |
| GILLIAM, Lucy Megginson | 1 Feb 1917 | 16 Sep 1982 |
| GILLIAM, Otis Howell | 28 May 1888 | 10 Oct 1962 |
| GILLIAM, Tracy Lynn | 22 Feb 1975 | 9 Jun 1993 |
| GILLIAM, Wilson Bryan | 25 Jun 1914 | 21 Jun 1995 |
Spring Creek Cemetery, Darlington Heights
| GILLIAM, Fannie Johnson | 7 Nov 1913 | 29 Nov 1993 |
| GILLIAM, John Ruthard | 24 Oct 1899 | 13 Feb 1958 |
| GILLIAM, Sallie May Womack | 10 Aug 1867 | 2 Apr 1946 |
| GILLIAM, Wiley Elmer | 15 Apr 1873 | 24 Mar 1956 |
Chancery Suits
9 Jul 1803
William Gillom, Judith Woodson Gillom, and Anthony W. Woodson agt. Peter Fore
To the Worshipful Court of Prince Edward in Chancery sitting . . .
The children and heirs of Charles Woodson, deceased, seek the hire of "sundry slaves" bequeathed to them following the death of their mother who held a life estate in the slave property. They report that their mother married Peter Fore after the death of their father. They further recount that she "died about the 21st of April 1798 -- That the said Slaves were on that year hired out by the said Peter Fore, and thereby the Compls. became entitled to the hire of the said Slaves from the said 21st April 1798 till the end of the year." Noting that Fore refuses to tell them "what negros he held for the life of his wife? to whom were they hired? for what sum were they severally hired," the petitioners pray that "by Decree of this Court the Deft may be compelled to pay their proportion of the hire of said Slaves."
Digital LIbrary on American Slavery. Petition 21680310. http://library.uncg.edu/slavery/
[Judith Woodson, wife of William GILLIAM, was the daughter of Charles Woodson and Mary Winston]
Jun Court 1814
Davis Hill, Plaintiff agt James Arnold and John GILLIAM, Defendants, upon an injunction. Continued to the next court.
Prince Edward County, VA, Book 18, 1814-1818, page 115
Jun Court 1816
Davis Hill, Plaintiff, agt James Arnold and John GILLIAM, Defendants, upon an injunction. Plaintiff receives permission to amend his bill.
Prince Edward County, VA, Book 18, 1814-1818, page 423
Nov Court 1816
Davis Hill, Plaintiff agt James Arnold and John GILLIAM, Defendants, upon an injunction. Ordered that the Plaintiffs injunction be made perpetual.
Prince Edward County, VA, Book 18, 1814-1818, page 518
Children's Register
Register of Children of Colored Persons whose Parents had ceased to cohabit which the Father recognizes to be his, 1866 Feb. 27
Churches
Briery Presbyterian Church
Mar 1832
Margaret Calhoun, received 12 Oct 1828, age 19 years, married John R. Gilliam, dismissed to Walker’s Presbyterian Church, March 1832
Kolbe, J. C. Briery Presbyterian Church Membership List, Southside Virginian, Volume 4, page 43
Civil War
Robert GILLIAM, wounded at Gettysburg
A History of Prince Edward County, Virginia: From Its Formation in 1753, to the Present, page 96
Cohabitation Register
GILLIAMs of Prince Edward County Cohabitation Register
Deeds
3 Apr 1754
William Smith of P. E. to Chs. GILLIAM 295 acres on Falling Creek adj. Locket and Manasory Bride, Williamson, Elam, Woods and pastures.
Prince Edward County, VA, Deed Book 1, page 7B
12 July 1756
Edward Nix to Deverix Jarrett 200 Acres William GILLIAMs Line near mouth of a branch etc.
Prince Edward County, VA, Deed Book 1, page 74
29 Sep 1756
I, James Atwood, of Amelia Co, for the love I have for my son Richard Atwood, have given my sd son a certain tract of land in Prince Edward Co, containing abt 400 acres join. the lands of Thomas Scott, Alexr. Kean, Richard Swepston, & Wm. Parnall, being pt of that tract of land grt'd. to sd. James Atwood by patent containing 1,765 acres Sig: June 25, 1757 [sic], James Atwood
Wit: Jas. Harris, Lawrence B. [his mark] Brown, John Drinkard, John Ford, George Forest, Wm. Atwood, Francis Forrest, Charles Gilliam.
Rec: Aug 9, 1756
Prince Edward County, VA, Deed Book 1, page 104b
9 Apr 1761
Charles GILLIAM and Frances, his wife, of the Parish of St. Patrick and Prince Edward, to Abel Thaxton of same.
Wit: William Purnall, Elizabeth Atwood, John Popham
Recorded April 13, 1762
Prince Edward County, VA, Deed Book 1, page 189B
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]
21 March 1774
Between William Atwood & Sarah his wife of Prince Edward and Charles Wade 20 pounds current money for 20 acres Beginning at a corner red oak on Charles Wade line . . . given to the said William Atwood by his father James Atwood deceased . . .
Signed William Atwood, Sarah (her X mark) Atwood
Wit: James Cross, John GILLON, James Orr.
Recorded 21 March 1774
Prince Edward County, VA, Deed Book 5, page 226
2 March 1774
Between James Atwood & James Cross Merchant 93 pounds 9 shillings 4 pence, James Atwood stands justly indebted to the said James Cross confirm to the said James Cross the following slaves Glouster, Mintor, Good Luck, fellows, and Lett old Lucy, Cate and Dinah, wenches, together with their increase of the said wenches…
25 December 1775.
Signed: James Atwood,
Wit: John GILLON, James Orr, James Cross.
Recorded 16 May 1774
Prince Edward County, VA, Deed Book 5, page 271
10 Jan 1804
Grantor, John Arnold and Sarah his wife to James Davenport. $1,000 for 200 acres in Prince Edward County on waters of Vaughan's Creek, bounded by Jesse Ferguson, William Bennet, James GILLAM, thence to land that belonged to Daniel Woods, and along some other lines to the beginning, it being the whole of the land deeded to me by Massanella Womack whereon Thomas Arnold lately resided.
Witnesses: Robert Kelso and Nathnl. Dick.
Signed: John Arnold, Sarah (x) Arnold.
Release of Dower Right: Sarah Arnold. 18 June 1804.
Rec. 19 Jun 1804
Prince Edward County, VA, Deed Book 13, page 186
15 Apr 1811
This indenture made the 15th day of April, one thousand eight hundred and eleven, between Philip Mathews and Molly, his wife, of the one part, witnesses that the said Philip Mathews and Molly, his wife, for the consideration of one thousand dollars to them in hand paid hath granted, bargained and sold and doth by these presents grant, bargain,sell all enfoeff and confirm unto the said James GILLIAM, his heirs or assigns forever one certain tract or parcel of land lying in the county of Prince Edward on the waters of Vaughn's Creek supposed to contain three hundred acres be the same more or less and bounded as follows . . .
Prince Edward County, VA, Deed Book 14, page 494.
1836
Anthony W. GILLIAM from Wm. GILLIAM and others, 422 acres
Prince Edward County, VA, Deed Book 21, page 429
1859
Anthony W. GILLIAM to Martha Corwile, 174 acres
Prince Edward County, VA, Deed Book 28, page 57
1864
Wm. S. Corwile and Martha his wife, to Wm. A. Price.
Prince Edward County, VA, Deed Book 28, page 514
1887
Wm. A. Price to R. L. Price, 115 acres
Prince Edward County, VA, Deed Book 37, page 388
1887
Wm. A. Price to R. L. Price, 165 acres
Prince Edward County, VA, Deed Book 37, page 392
District Court
1793
List of fees due Fr. Watkins, Clerk of Prince Edward County & District Courts in the County of Buckingham for 1793
District Court Fee
. . . Eliz. Guilliam
Prince Edward County, VA District Court, Records At Large, Book 2, page 233
after 11 Apr 1794
Elizabeth Guilliam, admnx. of John Gilliam, decd, unadministered by Epaphroditus Guilliam, deceased, late executor of the said Guilliam plaintiff vs. John Guilliam, admn. with the Will annexed of William Johns, deceased, defendant.
Elizabeth had first brought suit against William Johns on 11 Apr 1794 for debt £2746 “paper money.” William Johns, had purchased part of the estate of John Guilliam from Epaphroditus Guilliam, the executor.
Elizabeth received a judgment from the court, but then William Johns died testate, and John Guilliam the administrator had not paid the judgment.
The District Court awarded a judgment against the goods and chattles of William John’s estate then in the hand of the administrator.
Prince Edward County, VA District Court, Records At Large, Book 2, page 283-85
April 1779
Guilliam ads Gillam
John Johns, 1 day, 17 miles
Prince Edward County, VA District Court Attendance Book, page 106
Gillam vs. Gillam
Saml Saunders; 4 days, 21 miles, 2 times
Prince Edward County, VA District Court Attendance Book, page 106
[The above suits involved Buckingham Gilliams: Elizabeth Gilliam, the Estate of John Gilliam, decd, the executor of the estate of John Gilliam, namely, Epaphroditus Gilliam who is also deceased and William Johns, purchaser of the Estate.]
18 Sep 1779
George Hooper, Thomas Redd, John Moseley, and William Duiguid Gentleman Justices of Buckingham County Court for the benefit of John Richardson GILLIAM, Richard Curd GILLIAM, William Richardson GILLIAM, Isham Richardson GILLIAM and Patty Curd GILLIAM residuary legatees of John GILLIAM deceased complains of Epaphroditus GILLIAM, Robert Saunders, and Josiah Jones, of a plea that they render to the plaintiff for the benefit of the said residuary legatees, the sum of forty thousand pounds which to the pltffs, the defendants, owe and from them unjustly detain for that where as the defendants on the 18th of September 1779 at the parish of _______ in the said county by their certain writing . . .
About 1800
Family of John Gilliam decd., wife Susanna,
children: John Richardson Gilliam, Richard Curd Gilliam, William Richardson Gilliam, Isham Richardson Gilliam, Patty Cord Gilliam,
Epaphroditus Gilliam.
Kolbe, J. C. Prince Edward District Court Order Book, 1792-1802, Southside Virginian, Volume 4, page 107
Prince Edward District Court Order Book, 1792-1802, page 229
September 1800
Commonwealth vs. Gibson
Drury Woodson, 1 day, 43 miles, dd Randolph Harrison, per order
Charles Woodson, 4 days, 40 miles, same
Charles Gilliam, 4 day, 48 miles, dd J. Michaux per order
Jacob Johnston, 4 days, 48 miles; dd Randolph Harrison per order
James Armistead, 4 days, 45 miles, dd Randolph Harrison per order
Thomas Montague, 4 days, 45 miles, dd Randolph Harrison per order
Wm Bond, 4 days, 38 miles, dd Randolph Harrison per order
Thomas Walton, 4 days, 40 miles, dd Randolph Harrison per order
Obadiah Johnston, 4 days, 45 miles, dd Randolph Harrison per order
Wm Palmore, 1 day, 23 miles, sent by Jos Michaux
Prince Edward County, VA District Court Attendance Book, page 138
[The above list is quite a who’s who of Cumberland County, VA Gilliams and their in-laws. The only Gibson in the tax records of Prince Edward of 1800 is Thomas Gibson; however, since this is District Court, Gibson could have hailed from Buckingham, Charlotte, Cumberland, Halifax or Prince Edward. From Buckingham, Miles Gibson and Saban Gibson; from Cumberland Robert B. Gibson and Thomas Gibson; from Halifax, John Gibson; and from Prince Edward, Thomas Gibson. No none connection between the Cumberland Gilliams and Gibsons are known other than Gibsons were listed in the Cumberland tithes in that part of the County that became Powhatan.]
2 Apr 1801
John R. Gilliam vs Epaphro Gilliam
20 Apr 1802
John R. Gilliam vs Epaphro Gilliam
7 Sep 1802
John R. Gilliam vs Epaphro Gilliam
Prince Edward County, VA, District Court Execution Book
[John R. Gilliam above, appears to be John Richardson Gilliam, son of John Gilliam and Susannah Richardson, for Epaphroditus Gilliam appears, among others, that Epaphroditus owes John R. Gilliam monies from the Estate of John Gilliam, John Richardson Gilliam, being the eldest son of John and Susannah.]
Education
The Bass School
Descendants of James GILLIAM and Martha "Patsy" Mathews attended the "Bass School" on Route 696, the Green Bay Road, four miles east of Route 460. Among the attendees are J. Hugh GILLIAM, Annie GILLIAM, Meda GILLIAM and Ruth GILLIAM.
[John Hugh GILLIAM, Annie GILLIAM and Ruth GILLIAM are the children of John Jennings GILLIAM and Mary Turner Hatchett, his wife. See Westview Cemetery above. Ruth GILLIAM is the daughter of Wyndham Macon GILLIAM and Sallie Fontaine, his wife.]
Farmville Graded and High School
Archer Edward Gilliam, Sr., and his sister Elizabeth made the Honor Roll in Farmville
6 May 1904
2 Dec 1904
9 Dec 1904
25 Apr 1905
Landowner's Directory of 1815
John GILLIAM
William GILLIAM, Buffalo River, 13SW
James GILLIAM, Jr., Sawney's Creek, 20W
James GILLIAM, Sr., Walker's Church, 18NW
[Directions and distances are measured from the Courthouse.]
Ward, Roger G. 1815 Directory of Virginia Landowners (and Gazetteer) Volume 2. Athens, GA: Iberian Pub. Co.
Marriages
The following marriages were taken from the Prince Edward County, VA Marriage Records and Marriage Bonds, in Prince Edward County Clerk's Office, at Farmville, Virginia, from 1780 to 1850, William and Mary College Quarterly Historical Magazine, Vol. 11, No. 2. (Oct., 1902), pp. 141-143.
6 Oct 1798
James GILLIAM and Patsey Mathews, surety James Hill, daughter of Phillip Mathews
17 Dec 1799
William GILLIAM and Judith Woodson, Dec. 17, 1799
18 Aug 1800
John M. Woodson and Susannah GILLIAM, Aug. 18, 1800
3 Oct 1804
John H. GILLIAM and Lucy Bennett, surety Southy Bell, daughter of William Bennett
11 Feb 1813
Charles GILLIAM and Patsy Wyatt
16 Dec 1817
William GILLIAM and Judith Woodson, surety Jacob Woodson, daughter of Charles Woodson, decd, Robert Kelso , guardian grants permission
10 Apr 1826
James H. GILLIAM and Mary E. Bishop, surety Cornelius Barnes, daughter of Mary Bishop
18 Jan 1827
RIce H. GILLIAM and Eliza P. Boatwright, surety Jon W. Boatwright, daughter of John Boatwright
17 Dec 1827
Anthony W. GILLIAM and Mary F. GILLIAM, surety John W. GILLIAM, daughter of James GILLIAM
13 Oct 1828
John W. GILLIAM and Susan Venable, surety James Venable, daughter of Charles Venable
20 Jul 1830
John R. GILLIAM and Margaret Ann Calhoon, surety John D. GILLIAM, daughter of Adam Calhoun
18 Sep 1830
William T. GILLIAM and Mary S. Stewart, surety William Holland
8 Nov 1834
Wilson GILLIAM and Martha A. Thackston, Surety Henry C. Thackston, daughter of Nathanael Thackston
10 Dec 1834
German GILLIAM and Mary E. R. Elam
15 Dec 1834
Abner GILLIAM and Mary Ann Perkins, surety Elijah Perkins
14 Aug 1839
Spencer GILLIAM and Mary E. Dupuy, surety John Edmunds
15 Nov 1841
James M. GILLIAM and Saluda A. Brightwell, surety William Matthews
4 Jan 1843
Jerman GILLIAM and Mary Campbell, surety James K. Whitehead
11 Nov 1844
Charles H. GILLIAM and Margaret R. Hill, surety Barnett Hill, daughter of Barnett Hill
27 Nov 1844
James M. GILLIAM and Sarah M. Watson, surety William J. Watson, daughter of Wilkerson Watson
29 Sep 1845
James S. GILLIAM and Martha A. Martin, surety James H. Martin
Saturday, 13 Jul 1895
The Farmville Herald
A Pretty Home Wedding
Before a large assemblage of their most intimate friends and relatives, Mr. Nicholas B. Davidson and Mrs. Edna GILLIAM Morris were united for life in the sacred bonds of matrimony last Tuesday afternoon at half-past 3 o'clock. The ceremony was solemnly and impressively performed by the bride's pastor, Rev. Dr. Bagby, of the Baptist church. There were only two attendants to the bride and groom in addition to the ushers, Messrs. W. A. Rice and H. H. Hunt. The maid of honor was Miss Gertie Harris, cousin of the bride, while the groom's best man was his brother, Mr. W. E. Davidson. The parlors were decorated very tastily and the scene was one of rare beauty.
As soon as the ceremony was ended, Mr. and Mrs. Davidson left on the eastbound train for Richmond. They returned to Farmville yesterday.
The bride is the daughter of our townsman, Mr. W. P. GILLIAM, and enjoys the possession of a large number of friends. The groom is a prominent young business man of this place, the talented leader of the Farmville Silver Band, and deservedly popular with all who know him. The large number of useful and many costly presents given the happy couple very well attest their popularity in the community.
Mr. and Mrs. Davidson will reside on Baptist Hill in the house recently vacated by Mrs. A. B. Davis.
[Edna GILLIAM was the daughter of Wiley P. GILLIAM and Mary Frances Harris, his wife. Edna was born Oct 1871 in Prince Edward. She married first E. L. Morris and had Wiley B. Morris. On 9 Jul 1895 she married secondly Nicholas B. Davidson.]
Notes of Ruby Talley Smith and Bill Davidson
Farmville Herald, 13 Jul 1895.
Military
War of 1812
1813,
James GILLIAM, Ensign
Prince Edward Co., Militia Officers, 1811-1814 taken from Prince Edward Order Books, page 546
[Over the course of Virginia history there have been three Ensign James GILLIAMs, from three separate GILLIAM lines. The first was James who married Martha Isbell. The second was James of Cumberland and later Powhatan who married Susannah. This one of Prince Edward appears to be James GILLIAM, Jr., the son of James GILLIAM and Frances Hopkins, his wife. This James is distinct from James GILLIAM of Cumberland and later Red River County, TX, son of Charles Manning GILLIAM, who also served in the War of 1812.]
Obituaries
Friday, 21 Apr 1899 Mr. German GILLIAM, father of our townsman, Mr. W. P. GILLIAM, died on Tuesday morning last at 5 o'clock. He had been in feeble health for many months and on account of his extreme age, being in his 91st year, there had not been entertained any idea of his improving. His funeral took place Wednesday afternoon, the interment being made in the family burying ground. Owing to the sudden illness of Mr. W. P. GILLIAM, his son, he was unable to attend the burial. Farmville Herald, 21 Apr 1899, Friday
5 Feb 1948
Daniel Witt GILLIAM, 72, died Thursday morning Feb 5, 1948 after several months of declining health. Funeral services will be held Sat afternoon at 3 pm at Doyne Funeral Home with interment in the Farmville Cemetery. Mr. GILLIAM was the son of the late Wiley P. GILLIAM and Frances Harris GILLIAM and was born in Farmville, August 21, 1875. For many years he engaged in the mercantile business and in later years he operated a store adjoining the State Teachers College campus, catering to the college trade. He was a member of the Farmville Baptist Church. Since the death of his wife, the former Miss Elizabeth Blanton, he had made his home at the Thacker Convalescent Home near Hampden-Sydney. Surviving are 1 sister, Mrs J. L. Putney, the former Miss Blanche GILLIAM of Farmville and a foster brother, Raleigh C. GILLIAM of Richmond. Also a number of nephews and nieces. Pallbearers Saturday will be J. H. GILLIAM, C. W. Harris, Bennie GILLIAM, Marshall Harris, Mack Thackston, Joel Watkins, Jr, R. E. Garland and Waverley GILLIAM.
[Daniel Witt GILLIAM was the son of Wiley P. GILLIAM and Mary Frances Harris. Wiley P. GILLIAM was the son of German/Jerman GILLIAM and Mary Campbell. German GILLIAM was the son of James GILLIAM, Jr., and Martha "Patsy" Mathews.
Mary Frances Harris was the daughter of John Mace Harris and Ann Elizabeth GILLIAM. Ann Elizabeth GILLIAM was the daughter of James GILLIAM, Jr., and Martha "Patsy" Mathews.
“Foster” brother Raleigh is the son of John William GILLIAM (18 May 1840, Prince Edward –28 May 1917) and Elizabeth “Betty” M. Brightwell, his wife. John William is also a son of German GILLIAM (10 Apr 1810-19 Apr 1899) but from his wife Mary E. R. Elam. German and Mary Elam were married 10 Dec 1834 in Prince Edward. John William GILLIAM and Elizabeth Brightwell (dau of Archibald Runnels Brightwell and Hariett H. Hill) were married 24 Mar 1875.
J. H. GILLIAM is likely James Henry GILLIAM who married 28 Oct 1877 in Prince Edward Mary Margaret “Maggy” Rice the dau of W. J. and Sarah Rice. James Henry GILLIAM is the son of James Mathews GILLIAM and Saluda Ann Brightwell.
Bennie GILLIAM appears to be Arthur Bennett GILLIAM, brother of Raleigh. Arthur Bennett GILLIAM was born about 1875.
Waverly GILLIAM appears to be George Waverly GILLIAM, the son of Rice Alexander GILLIAM and Adella “Della” Jane Harris. Adella is the dau of John Mace Harris and Ann Elizabeth GILLIAM.]
Notes of Ruby Talley Smith and Bill Davidson
Railroad
Wreck on the Farmville and Powhattan
Farmville, Oct 28 [Special]
A serious wreck occurred on the Farmville and Powhattan railroad last night near Powhattan Court House. The passenger train coming south at a high rate of speed crashed into an engine headed north, which had broken down. Both engines were demolished and several passenger coaches and freight boxes demolished. Conduct Dabney Gilliam was seriously cut about the head and face, and perhaps fatally injured. Engineer Cheatham had an arm broken, his collar bone dislocated and received other painful injuries. Fireman Jim Martin was also quite badly hurt. This is the first bad wreck that has ever occurred on the road and this was owing, it is said to the carelessness of the trainmen.
Roanoke Times, October 29, 1891.
[James Dabney Gilliam was the son of Richard James Gilliam and Catherine Elizabeth Thornton. James Dabney married Katherine Hetherton Archer]
Taxes
1792
Personal Property Taxes
John GILLIAM
page 8
Binns Genealogy. 1790/1800 County Tax Lists of Virginia.
Tithes
1755
List of Tithables from Buffalo to the county line
Robert Hanna, Charles GILLIAM, Joshua GILLIAM, Patrick Galispie, Thomas Stone, William Stone, Andrew Flower, Robert Galispie, John May, William Thurman, Jacob Gibson, Richard Bennett, James Bennett, Henry Dikes, Benjamin Witt, Charles Witt, Lewis Witt
Virginia Historical Inventory
"The Price Place," the Home of Anthony Woodson GILLIAM.
Wills, Estates, Inventories
Will of James Atwood
2 Jul 1771
| I, James Atwood of St. Patrick’s Parish and Prince Edward County, sick and weak but of a good and sound memory. First, my just debts to be paid, and after that, if my wife Mary Atwood does not third the land then to my wife ñ during her widowhood and no longer, half the dwelling house I now live in, with 50 acres joining thereto, and one fifth of my [house] hold goods, and one fourth of my cattle, hogs, and sheep. Also 1 roan horse, and 5 £ per year. If she thirds the land, then I don’t lend her anything. After her death or marriage, this legacy to my son Benjamin Atwood. I charge my son James Atwood with the cash I lent to my wife. Exors: my friend George Forrest and my son James Atwood. Sig: July 2, 1771 James Atwood. Wit: James Wad, Charles Wade, Josiah Cunningham. At Prince Edward Court of October 21, 1771, the will of James Atwood deceased was presented in court and proved by James Wade, and at another court for Prince Edward November 18, 1771, this will was further proved by Charles Wade and or James Atwood Junior, one of the executors, refused in court to take execution of the will. John Ligh, Gentleman, was granted administration of the estate. |
| Prince Edward County, Virginia Wills, 1754-1776 by T.L.C., pg. 33 |
Will of William Gray, deceased
11 Mar 1826
Wit: Robert Kelso, James GILLIAM, James Gray, Alexander Swan, William Swam
Codicil:
Wit: Alexander Swan, William A. Swan
Rec: 18 Sep 1826, Oct 7, 1825
Edward Pleasant Valentine Papers, Volume 1, page 528
Prince Edward County, Will Book ____, page ____
Will of Davis Hill
27 Aug 1838
I, Davis Hill of the County of Prince Edward, do hereby make and ordain this my last will and testament in the following manner to wit;
First, I will to my son Anderson the tract of land on which he now lives containing ___ four hundred and thirty acres, also three negro men named Wyate, Adam and Micajah to him and his heirs forever.
Second, I will to my son Barnette the tract of land on which I live also two negro men named Sam and Harry, and one woman named Philis and her three children with their future increase, also all the crop on hand as growing of every description, to him and his heirs forever.
Third, I will that the balance of my estate of every kind be equally divided between my sons, Anderson and Barnet (in kind if practicable). Anderson to be charged with an account of fifty-two dollars which he has received over and above his equal part in the advancements I have made to my sons, in property and moneys, after allowing him one hundred forty dollars for the deficiency in his negroes.
Lastly, I do hereby constitute and appoint my friends Samuel D. Hill and William Matthews executors of this my last will and testament, and it is my will that the court should not require them to give security. In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this 27th day of August 1838.
Davis Hill (seal)
Signed, sealed, published and delivered,
for the last will and testament of the above
named Davis Hill in presence of
Samuel Wheeler
Samuel Mitchell, Jr.
Samuel H. Mitchell
William D. Matthews
Spencer GILLIAM
Codicil to this my last will and testament, viz. I will to my son Barnet my cupboard, clock and desk, the cupboard to be accounted for at $14, the clock $20 and the desk $4. As witnessed my hand and seal this 3rd day of December 1840.
Davis Hill (Seal)
Witnesses:
Clayton GILLIAM
James M. GILLIAM
William D. Matthews
Spencer GILLIAM
Codicil made this 2nd day of July 1841 to this my last will and testament that as much as I have sold the negro man Harry named within I will to my son Barnet the sum of $540 in his stead. Given under my hand and seal the day and date above written.
Davis Hill (Seal)
Witnesses
Wm. D. Matthews
Spencer GILLIAM
At a Court held for Prince Edward County November the 22nd 1842, this last will and testament of Davis Hill dec'd with 2 codicils appended was presented in Court and the said will and codicils were proved by the oaths of William D. Matthews and Spencer GILLIAM, two witnesses thereto, ordered that the same be recorded. At a Court held for Prince Edward County March the 21st 1843. It appearing to the satisfaction of the Court that Samuel D. Hill and William Matthews appointed executors wherein refused to qualify, on the motion of Anderson Hill and Barnet Hill, administration with the will appended is granted them; therefore they with Anthony W. GILLIAM and Samuel D. McDearman, their securities, entered into and acknowledged this Bond, for the purpose in the penalty of $4000 conditioned according to law, and took the oath required by law, certificate for obtaining letters of administration with the will amended in due form is granted them.
Teste
B. J. Worsham, C.C.
Prince Edward County, Will Book ____, page ____
Will of James GILLIAM
17 Nov 1838
First: I will to my wife, Martha, all my estate, real and personal, during her widowhood, with the exceptions hereinafter mentioned, to be managed by my executors hereinafter named for her support and benefit, but if my wife should marry, then my estate to be divided as the law directs in case of intestate estates.
2ndly: I confirm the advances heretofore made to my several children
3rdly: I will to my daughter, Martha Whitehead, one negro girl named Harriett
4th: I will to my daughter Ann Eliza Harris, one negro girl named Grace.
5th I will to my daughter, Jane GILLIAM, two negroes, Adam and Eve
6th I will to the children of my deceased daughter Mary GILLIAM, at the marriage or decease of my wife Martha, one negro Daphney
7th I will my son, John R. GILLIAM one negro boy named John.
8th I will to my son, James M. GILLIAM, one negro boy named William
9th I will to my son Rice H. GILLIAM, one negro boy named Henry
10th I will to my son, German GILLIAM, one negro boy named Doctor
11th I will that after my sons, Moses and Charles, become of lawful age, when it may seem fit and convenient and at the direction of my executors, they be made about equal in advances out of my estate, either in negroes or money, to my other sons.
12th I will that my executors sell my negro man, Brister.
13th Will that after the decease of my wife, the whole, or after her marriage, whatever part that may not be included in her third of the tract be divided among my sons, John R., James M. and Rice, and that the tract of land called Martins and Lewis tract be divided upon the same principal between my sons, German, Moses, and Charles, the land to be accounted for at valuation land upon a final division of my estate all my children be made equal, the children of my deceased daughter, Mary having one equal share.
And lastly, I appoint my sons, John R. and James M. and my friend, William Mathews, executors of this my last Will and Testament. In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this 17th day of November 1838.
Sig: James GILLIAM
Signed, sealed and acknowledged in the presence of
Samuel D. Hill, James Jennings, Josiah H. Paris, Samuel S. Hill
At a Court held for Prince Edward County, Jan 18th 1841, this last Will & Testament, of James GILLIAM, dec’d, was present in Court and proved by the oaths of Samuel D. Hill, Josiah Paris, and Samuel S. Hill, three witnesses, thereto, ordered that the same be recorded. Upon the motion of James M. GILLIAM, Executor herein named, he with John M. Harris, James R. Whitehead, Jerman GILLIAM, Rice H. GILLIAM and Samuel D. Hill, his executors entered into and acknowledged their bond for the purpose in penalty of sixteen thousand dollars conditioned according to law and took the required by law certificate for obtaining a probated thereof in due form is granted him.
Teste: R. J. Worsham, Clerk
Prince Edward County, Will Book ____, page ____
Windsor Hotel
Sources
- Bible of Fayette Henry and Ann Elizabeth (Ayres) GILLIAM. Library of Virginia
- Binns Genealogy. 1790/1800 County Tax Lists of Virginia.
- Farmville Herald, 8 July 1895.
- A history of Prince Edward County, Virginia: from its formation in 1753, to the present, page 96
- Notes of Ruby Talley Smith and Bill Davidson
- Marriage Bonds, in Prince Edward County Clerk's Office, at Farmville, Virginia, from 1780 to 1850, William and Mary College Quarterly Historical Magazine, Vol. 11, No. 2. (Oct., 1902), pp. 141-143.
- Prince Edward County, Virginia Deed Book 1 (1754-1759), T.L.C.
- Ward, Roger G. 1815 Directory of Virginia Landowners (and Gazetteer) Volume 2. Athens, GA: Iberian Pub. Co.