Decendents of John Stephenson Sr

35. Arthur Stephenson Jr. (Arthur Sr.¹⁷, Abraham Sr.³, (William) John Jr.², John Sr.¹) was born before 1745 and died in 1776. {FSID: LCX8-5YF}

General Notes: The following information was provided by Alan C. Stephenson, from Chapel Hill, North Carolina, March 25, 2010:

Notes for Arthur Stephenson Jr.:

Arthur Jr.’s birth date is estimated based on the assumption that he was at least 18 years old at the date of the 1762 deed of three slaves from Abraham Sr. to Arthur Sr., which was witnessed by Arthur Jr. See deed 12 under Deeds and Land Grants in the Notes of Arthur Sr.

It is believed that Arthur Jr. died in Orange Co. in 1776. See introductory notes and Deeds in the Notes for Arthur Sr., and the following will:

Will dated March 2, 1776 (Orange Co. Record of Wills, Vol A, 1752-1788):

“In the name of God amen, The last Will and Testament of Arthur Stephens is as follows: First of all I bequeath my soul to God and my body to the ground from whence it came, and my lands and movable estate as follows: to my first daughter Sarah I bequeath one feather bed and furniture one side saddle to my second daughter Lavina I bequeath one feather bed and furniture with three pounds in money to my third daughter Elizabeth one feather bed it is my desire that my lands should be sold to the highest bidder giving one twelve months credit for one half and two years for the other, my stock horses sheep cattle hoggs it is my desire to be sold to the highest bidder giving one yearts credit next my household goods to be sold at the same credit, and it is my desire that all moneys arising from such sails [sic] should be equally divided amongst my six children, that of the land excepted, which I desire should be equally divided between the three boy children, it is my next desire that Joshua Johnston, Joel Johnston, John McCone and Abraham Stephens [illegible] Executors of this my will maid [sic] in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and seventy-six, March [illegible]2

Signed in presents of us Arthur [his mark] Stephens
James Scarlett, J[illegible] Carrington
John [his mark] Bridger”

More About Arthur Stephenson Jr.:
Will: March 02, 1776, Orange County, North Carolina

All the information on the children came from Alan Stephenson.

36. Abraham Stephenson (Arthur Sr.¹⁷, Abraham Sr.³, (William) John Jr.², John Sr.¹) was born about 1750 in Northampton County, North Carolina, USA, died about Dec 1823 in Northampton County, North Carolina, USA about age 73, and was buried in Northampton County, North Carolina, USA. {FSID: 9F4N-GMR}

General Notes: DAR Patriot A109211
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During the early 1770s when the "New World" was struggling for its independence from England during the Revolutionary War, Abraham served as a Continental solder from the Northampton County area, Halifax District.(1)

(1) Haun, Weynette Parks, NC Rev Army Accounts Secretary of State Treasurer's & Comptroller's papers, Vol. 1, Vol. II, part II; National Society of the Daughter of the Am Rev, DAR Patriot Index, Centennial Edition, Part III, p. 2802; The Army Acconts of the North Carolina.

**The following information was taken from Rebecca Leach Ddozier's book, "Twelve Northhampton County, North Carolina Families 1650-1850, published by Gateway Press, INC., Baltimore, MD 2004; page 334-336:

Abraham (Arthur(3), Abraham(2), John Stephenson(1)), son of Arthur and Elizabeth (mnu-maiden name unknown) Stephenson, was born in the Northampton County area of north Carolina about 1750(62). He married Mary Jenkins, daughter of Winborne and Emma Futrell Jenkins in Northampton County, about 1776(63). During the early 1770s, when the "New World" was struggling for its independence from England during the Revolutionary War, Abraham served as a Continental solder from the Northampton County area, Halifax District(64). After the war, in 1778, Abraham's father Arthur deeded him all of his land including his plantation and his copper still cap and worm used to make Apple Cider and Brandy. In this same deed, Arthur also gave his son Abraham a Negro slavae girl named Lucy(65). Abraham's father-in-law, Winborne Jenkins, a neighbor Jacob Boon, and Daniel Johnson, whose relationship is unknown to the Stephenson family, witnessed this transaction. On the Northampton County 1790 census, Abraham was listed as having two males 16 and upward, two males, under 16, three females, and four slaves living in his household. The 1800 Norhampton County census recorded Abraham as having in his household two males under 10, one male between 16 and 26, one male between 26 and 45 (Abraham), one female between 26 and 45 (Mary), one female 45 and up, and 15 slaves. On 27 Aug 1810, Abraham deeded to his son Jenkins Stephenson 125 acres of land as a "deed of gift"(66). Abraham gave to his son Benjamin Stephenson 170 acres as a "deed of gift" on 10 Nov 1810(67). On the same day that Abraham gave his son Benjamin land, he also gave his son Arthur 170 acres(68). His sons were witnesses to each of these deeds. Between 1813 and 1823 Abraham was found mentioned only a ffew times in the Northampton County deed or will books. He was not found listed on the 1810 or 1820 Northampton County census records, but he was living in Northampton County as verified by the Northampton County deed books. He was mentioned in an 1810 deed as giving his sons Benjamin and Arthur land(69), and he witnessed his sister Milly's 1813 Northampton County will(70). This author next found Abraham mentioned in the deed books in 1823, when he gave his sons John and Benjamin land(71). On 17 March 1823, "for natural love and affection that I have for my son John Stephenson," Abraham gave him all of his land and his Negroes. John Suter and James Daughtrey witnessed this deed(72). On 30 May 1823, Abraham gave to his son Benjamin 170 acres of land for the same reasons he gave lnad to his son John, "love and affection."(73) Abraham had given Benjamin 170 acres once before in 1810(74). After 1823, Abraham was not found again in Northampton County's will, estates, deeds or census records. Gilbert T. Stephenson's undated family history revealed that Abraham once lived "at the W. P. Sykes' place where Mr. Wheeler now lives."(75) This same family history mentioned that Aabraham was buried about 200 yards north of his home in land that was being cultivated when Mr. Stephenson or his ancestors recorded the family's history. Abraham's date of death is unknown, and no will or estate papers have been found for him. He left records of his sons in the Northampton County deeds. The left only circumstantial evidence for his daughter, Amy Stephenson. Gilbert T. Stephenson's notes mentioned that a Charles who died in Hertford Co., NC was also one of Arthur's sons. The also mentioned that Amy was Abraham's daughter. Mr. Stephenson cited old handwritten notes found among the family's old papers as his source for the information about Charles and Amy. none of these notes were dated, nor did they give a source. It apparently was information handed down in the family over years and finallly recorded by Mr. Gilbert T. Stephenson or one of his ancestors. There are a few discrepancies concerning the given names of spouses, but the information has proven mostly accurate. Gilbert T. Stephenson had the following written about Abraham Stephenson in his historical papers: "Abraham Stephenson--my Great, great grandfather. Lived a W. P. Sykes' place where Mr. Wheeler lives. Owned about 1,000 acres and 20 slaves. Farmer. Was 7 years in the Revolutionary War. Buried at home near the house, 200 yards north of the house. now under cultivation."

Abraham and Mary Jenkins' proven children were Jenkins, Arthur, Benjamin (Ben), and John Stephenson. Traditionally Amy and Charles were also children of Abraham, but they are not proven children and are not listed with the children of Abraham and Mary Jenkins Stephenson. Their sketches are at the end of the Stephenson sketch with the sketches of other unproven individuals.

(62)National Society of the Daughter of the Am. Rev., DAR patriot Index, Centennial Edition, Part III, p. 2802, stated that Abraham was born in 1750, NC.

(63)Hofmann, Margaret M., Northampton Co., NC 1759-1808, Gen. Abstracts of Wills, pp.83, 99; DAR patriot Index, Centennial Edition, Part III, p. 2802.

(64)Haun, Weynette Parks, NC Rev. Army Accounts Secretary of State Treasurer's & Comptroller's Papers, Vol. I, Vol. II, Part II; National Society of the Daughter of the Am. Rev, DAR patrioit Index, Centennial Edition, Part III, p. 2802; The Army Accounts of the North Carolina.

(65)Bradley, Stephen, The Deeds of Northampton Co., NC 1774-1787, p. 29, DB 6, p. 299.

(66) Northampton Co., NC, DB 15, p. 49.

(67)Ibid., p. 86.

(68)Ibid., p. 88.

(69)Ibid., p. 86.

(70)NC Archives, 071.801: "Millly Smith, 1813;" Original copy of Milly's will.

(71)Northampton Co., NC, DB 21, p. 326.

(72)Ibid.

(73)Northampton Co., NC, DB 22, p. 8.

(74)Northampton Co., NC, DB 15, p 86.

(75)Gilbert T. Stephenson was born in 1884 in Pendleton, Northampton Co., NC. During his lifetine he collected information concerning his ancestor's genealogy. When he died in 1972 he left behind notes recording who these ancestors were. Some notes seem to be due to his own research, and some notes were by an unknown researcher. The land of the Abraham Stephenson who died after or around 1823 was where W. P. Sykes later settled and in the early 1900's was where Mr. Wheeler lived when Gilbert Stephenson's family history was being recorded. W. P. Sykes married this Abraham Stephenson great granddaughter Adelia Stephenson on 7 Aug 1867. Adelia was a daughter of this Abraham's grandson Abraham Stephenson (1812-1858) and his wife Eliza Powell.

_________________________________________________________________________________________________________

His death date comes from the Vaughan family online genealogy database: http://www.sallysfamilyplace.com/Neighbors/vaughan.htm

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This information was provided to me by Ed Barnes, about 1999.

Real Estate Transactions: Northampton County.
Book 15, page 49, Deed of Gift, dated November 10, 1810, Recorded January 21, 1811, Abraham Stephenson to son Jenkins Stephenson, both of Northampton County, 125 acres, joining Patties Delight, Abraham Stephenson and Etherdred Martin. Signed Abraham Stephenson Witness Arthur Stephenson, Benjamin Stephenson.

Book 15, page 86, Deed of Gift, dated November 10, 1810, Recorded January 21, 1811, Abraham Stephenson to Son, Benjamin Stephenson, both of Northampton County, 170 acres, joining Arthur Stephenson, David Jenkins, Jenkins Stephenson, Etherdred Martin, and Abraham Stephenson. Signed Abraham (x) Stephenson Witness: Jenkins Stephenson and Arthur Stephenson.

Book 15, page 87, Deed of Gift, dated november 10, 1810, Recorded january 21, 1811, Abraham Stephenson to son Jenkins Stephenson, both of Northampton County, 170 acres joining Abram Walls, Thomas Martin, Benjamin Stephenson, said Jenkins, Etherdred Martin, Patey's Delight. Signed Abraham (x) Stephenson Witness: Benjam Stephenson, Arthur Stephenson.

Book 15, page 88, Deed of Gift, dated November 10, 1810, Recorded January 21, 1811, Abraham Stephenson to Son Arthur Stephenson, both of Northampton County, 170 acres joining David Jenkins, Elias Powell, Benjamin boon, Benjamin Stephenson. Signed Abraham (x) Stephenson Witness: Jenkins Stephenson, Benjamin Stephenson, Winborne Newsom

Book 21, Page 326, Deed of Gift, dated March 17, 1823, Recorded September 20, 1823, Abraham Stevenson to son John Stevenson for natural love and affection plus $1.....all of my land wihich I now possessed....all of my negroes, names 10, and dother property.....3 beds of furniture, ...all of my hogs, cattlesheep, one buffet, and all perishable property.....Signed Abraham (x) Stevenson. Witness: James Deberry, John Suter.

Book 22, Page 8, Deed of Gift, Dated May 20, 1823, Recorded ??, Abraham Stephenson to son Benjamin Stephenson for natural love and affection and $1......170 acres of which I am now possessed.....on negro named Daniel.......Signed Abraham (x) Stevenson Witness: Jerimiah Johnson, John Suter.

Other:
Note 1. David Newsom Stephenson family Document. "According to the records Abraham, the great Grandfather, and Arther, the grandfather, were both buried near the family home in a private cemetery. That location, which is probably under cultivation at the present time of 1974, was on the road between Hedspeth Crossroads (between Conway and Pendleton but nearer Conway) and Galathia (Galacia). At one time it was knows as the W.P. Sykes' place--probably inherited by Delia, sister of Mack (D.N.). This land was last owned by Viola and Carrie (daughters of Mollie Stephenson and Carrie Harris. Present ownership not known."

Note 2: Gilbert Stephenson notes: not dated. "My great-great grandfather. Lived at W. P. Sykes place where Mr. Wheeler lives. Owned about 1,000 acres, and 20 slaves, Farmer. Was in the Revoluntary War. Buried at home near the house. 200 yards north of the house. Now under cultivation."

__________________________________________________________________________________________________

The following information was provided by Alan C. Stephenson, from Chapel Hill, North Carolina, March 25, 2010:

Notes for Abraham Stephenson:

Abraham's birth date is estimated based onb the assumption that he was at least 21 years old at the date of the 1778 deed from his father Arthur Sr. See deed 30 under Deeds and Land Grants in the Notes for Arthur Sr.

A will of Abraham has not been found. Based on deeds 9 and 10 under Deeds below, it is likely he died shortly after May 1823.

See Notes for Mary, wife of Abraham.

According to research notes of Gilbert T. Stephenson (date unknown), Abraham lived at W. P. Sykes' "where Mr. Wheeler lives" and was buried 200 yards north of the house on land "now under cultivation".

Revolutionary War Service:

According to family tradition, Abraham served in the Revolutionary War. The following are accepted applications for membership in the Sons of the American Revolution and the Daughters of the American Revolution based on Abraham's service in the North Carolina Continental Line:

1. Application of Gilbert Thomas Stephenson dated March 21, 1935 (approved March 22, 1935) to the Delaware Society of the Sons of the American Revolution. This application shows descent from Abraham through his son Benjamin and Benjamin's son Thomas Boon Stephenson. The application states:

"My grandfather, Thomas Boon Stephenson, who died in 1916 at the age of 91, remembered that his grandfather, Abraham Stevenson, had been a soldier in the Revolution and related incidents of his soldier's life.
"Mrs. Eliza Ann Stephenson Garriss of North Carolina, a great-granddaughter of Abraham Stephenson, confirms the statement that Abraham Stephenson was a soldier in the Revolution."

2. Application of Clara Ruth Pruden Byrum dated August 14, 1958 (approved October 13, 1958; accepted by the National Board of Management October 15, 1958) to the National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution. The application shows descent from Abraham through his son Arthur Stephenson and Arthur's son Abraham Stephenson.

3. Application of Emma Harriet Pruden Bond dated January 3, 1962 (approved January 12, 1962; accepted by the National Board of Management February 1, 1962) to the National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution. The application shows descent from Abraham through his son Arthur Stephenson and Arthur's son Abraham Stephenson.

4. Mary Carol Edwards Archdale dated July 7, 1995 (approved September 8, 1995; accepted by the National Board of Management October 7, 1995) to the National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution. The application shows descent from Abraham through his son Arthur Stephenson and Arthur's son Abraham Stephenson.

The following Revolutionary War records pertain to Abraham's service in the NC Continental Line:

1. Revolutionary Army Accounts, Vol. 28, page 93 shows the accounts settled in Warrenton in 1786. The entry for Abraham: No. 2010 Abraham Stephenson 185 pounds, 5 shillings, 8 pence paid by William Faircloth. See also Vol. State Records of North Carolina, Walter Clark, ed., Abstract of the Army Accounts of the North Carolina Line (Warrenton). This account is also listed on page 558 in Roster of Soldiers from North Carolina in the American Revolution, published by the Daughters of the American Revolution (1932) ("DAR" Roster").

2. Accounts of the United States with North Carolina, War of the Revolution, Book 19, page 302 shows that Abraham Stephenson was paid 463 pounds, 18-3/4 shillings by the State in the settlements of 1786.

3. North Carolina Revolutionary Army Accounts, Vol. III, Journal of Commissioners, An Account of the Due Bills and Certificates drawn by William Faircloth and of the Office of the Commissioners appointed to liquidate the accounts of the officers and soldiers of the Continental line of the State of North Carolina, page 102: No. 606 Abraham Stephenson-Due Bills 46 pounds, 6 shillings, 5 pence; Certificates 138 pounds, 19 shillings, 3 pence; Total Amount Due Bills and Certificates 185 pounds, 5 shillings, 8 pence.

4. North Carolina Revolutionary Army Accounts, Vol. VII, page 31, folio 4: No. 330 Abraham Stevenson 46 pounds, 6 shillings, 5 pence. [Corresponds to amount of Due Bills in item 3 above.]

5. North Carolina Revolutionary Army Accounts, Vol. 54, page 186: No. 606 Abraham Stevenson-Amount 185 pounds, 5 shillings, 8 pence; Due Bills 46 pounds, 6 shillings, 5 pence; Certificate (No. 746) 138 pounds, 19 shillings, 3 pence. [Corresponds to item 3 above.]

6. North Carolina Revolutionary Army Accounts Vol. VI, page 57, folio 3, Hillsborough Treasurer's Office [pay certificates surrendered to pay taxes and land entry fees]: No. 13 Abraham Stephenson 9 pounds, 6 shillings.

7. Due Bill No. 258 issued to Abraham Stevenson for 46 pounds, 6 shillings, 5 pence [corresponds to amount of Due Bills in items 3, 4 and 5 above]. Also listed on page 399 of DAR Roster.

The records do not indicate the company or regiment of the North Carolina Line in which Abraham served. It was likely he served in the 3rd, 7th or 10th Regiment, which were organized in whole or in part with companies from the Halifax District, which included Northampton County. Items 1 and 3 above indicate that Abraham's account at the settlement at Warrenton was received by William Faircloth, who was a lieutenant in the 10th Regiment. See North Carolina Troops in the Continental Line, A Register of Officers, with Dates of Commissions, Made up under Direction of the Secretary of State, W. L. Saunders, from Records in His Office, October, 1884 ("Saunders List"). However, this does not necessarily indicate that Abraham served in this regiment.

The 3rd Regiment was organized in 1776 and initially assigned to the Southern Department. On July 8, 1777, it was assigned to the North Carolina Brigade of the Main Army. Having been reduced to a cadre at Valley Forge, it was relieved from the Main Army on June1, 1778. In July 1778, the 3rd was reorganized at Halifax and assigned to the Highlands Department, then to the Middle Department and then to the Southern Department. It was reorganized again on November 5, 1779, at Halifax and assigned to the Southern Department. On May 12, 1780, the 3rd Regiment was captured by the British Army at Charleston, South Carolina. The 3rd Regiment was involved in the engagements at Charleston, 1775-76; Florida; the defense of Philadelphia; the Philadelphia-Monmouth campaign; and Charleston in 1780 when it was captured.

The 7th Regiment was organized in the spring of 1777 at Halifax. In 1777, it was assigned to the North Carolina Brigade, an element of the Main Army. It was disbanded on June 1, 1778, at Valley Forge. The 7th Regiment participated in the defense of Philadelphia and the Philadelphia-Monmouth campaign.

The 10th Regiment was authorized as an additional North Carolina regiment known as Sheppard's Additional Continental Regiment. It was organized in April-June 1777 to include men from northeastern North Carolina and was adopted into the Main Army. It was disbanded on June 1, 1778, at Valley Forge.
Robert K. Wright, Jr., The Continental Army (Army Lineage Series 1983), pp. 299-304.

Additional histories of these regiments and the North Carolina Continental Line can be found in The North Carolina Continentals by Hugh F. Rankin; The North Carolina Continental Line in the American Revolution by Hugh F. Rankin (North Carolina Bicentennial Pamphlet Series; North Carolina in the American Revolution 1977); and A Case Study of the Tenth Regiment, North Carolina Continental Line by Capt. Stephen A. Ralls, The North Carolina Genealogical Society Journal, Vol. XVIII, No. 2, p. 66 (May 1992)

Deeds:

1. See deeds 30, 34, and 36 under Deeds and Land Grants in Notes for Arthur Sr.

2. John McCone to Abraham Stevenson dated December 20, 1786, 60 pounds Va., for 125 acres adjoining a branch, Arthur Stevenson and Abraham Wall; also signed by Elizabeth McCone presumably Abraham's sister]; witnessed by Jacob Boon Jr., Jesse Britton and Thomas Sanders. NH DB 8:23.

3. Abraham Stevenson to David Parker dated January 27, 1792, 12 pounds for 40 acres then in [illegible]'s possession and adjoining John Absolam, Patty's Delight and Elias Powell; signed by Abraham Stevinson [no mark indicated]; witnessed by John Johnston and William Stevinson [with a mark]. NH DB 9:198.

4. Abraham Stephenson to Jenkins Stephenson [no relationship stated] dated August 27, 1810, deed of gift of 125 acres adjoining Patty's Delight, Abraham Stephenson and Etheldred Martin; signed by Abraham Stephenson [no mark indicated]; witnessed by Arthur and Benjamin Stephenson. NH DB 15:49.

5. Abraham Stephens to Arthur Stephens dated November 10, 1810, deed of gift to son Arthur of 170 acres adjoining David Parker, Elias Powell, Benjamin Boon and Benjamin Stephens; signed by Abraham Stephens [with a mark]; witnessed by Winborn Newsom, Jenkins and Arthur Stevenson. NH DB 15:86.

6. Abraham Stephens to Benjamin Stephens dated November 10, 1819, deed of gift to son Benjamin of 170 acres adjoining Arthur Stephens, David Parker, Jenkins Stephens, Etheldred Martin and Abraham Stephens; signed by Abraham Stephens [with a mark]; witnessed by Jenkins and Arthur Stephens. NH DB 15:86.

7. Abraham Stephens to Jenkins Stephens dated November 10, 1810, deed of gift to son Jenkins of 170 acres adjoining Abram Wall, Benjamin Stephens, Jenkins Stephens, Etheldred Martin, a branch and Patty's Delight; signed by Abraham Stephens [with a mark]; witnessed by Benjamin and Arthur Stephens. NH DB 15:86.

8. Abraham Stevenson to John Stevenson dated September 3, 1821, deed of gift to son John of five slaves, Milly, Jacob, Moses, Mary Ann and Mariah; signed by Abraham Stevenson [with a mark]; witnessed by David Stevenson [with a mark].

9. Abraham Stevenson to John Stevenson dated March 17, 1823, deed of gift to son John of "all my lands which I now have in possession", all slaves, Jane, Ham, Rose, Jacob, George, Moses, Mary, Mariah, Harriet, Liza and Luke and "all other property of whatever kind which I now own, consisting of one still, 3 beds and furniture, all my +[?] of hogs, all cattle, all my sheep, one buffet and all of other perishable property which I have not named above"; signed by Abraham Stevenson [with a mark]; witnessed by James Daughtrey and John Suiter. NH DB 21:326. [The wording of this suggests it was written in contemplation of death in lieu of a will.]

10. Abraham Stevenson to Benjamin Stevenson dated May 30, 1823, deed of gift to son Benjamin (consideration stated as "for the natural love and affection that I have for my son" and for "the further consideration of the sum of one dollar") of 170 acres of land "which he now in possession" and a slave David; signed by Abraham Stevenson [with a mark]; witnessed by Jeremiah Johnston and John Suiter. NH DB 22:8. [This is probably the same land as Abraham gave to Benjamin in deed 6 above. The purpose of this deed was likely to confirm Benjamin's title to the land as well as to convey title to the slave. It is likely that Abraham died shortly after this deed was written.]

Census Records:

1. 1786 NH Census (page 15 in Capt. Bennet's District): Abraham Stevenson, following Arthur Stevenson and next to William Stevenson-1 white male 21-60; 2 white males under 21and above 60; 2 white females all ages; 1 black 12-50; 2 blacks under 12 and above 50.

2. 1790 Federal Census (page 579): Abraham Stephenson, above Arthur Stephenson-2 white males 16 and upwards; 4 white males under 16; 3 white females all ages; 4 slaves.

3. 1800 Federal Census (page ): Abraham Stevenson-2 white males under 10; 1 white male 10-15; 1 white male 16-25; 1 white male 26-44; 2 white females 26-44; 15 slaves.

4. 1810 Federal Census (page ); Abraham Stephens-1 white male 10-15; 2 white males 16-25; 1 white male 45 and upwards; 1 white female 10-15; 1 white female 45 and upwards; 11 slaves.

5. 1820 Federal Census (page 260): Abraham Stevenson-1 white male 10-15; 1 white male 16-25; 1white male 45 and upwards; 1 white female 10-15; 1 white female 45 and upwards; 11 slaves.

Tax Records:

1. 1780 Tax List for NH Co.: Abraham Stevenson, following Arthur Stevenson and two up from Martha Vick-shown as married with 8 polls and with taxable property valued at 1,497 pounds, taxed at 111 pounds.

More about Abraham Stephenson:
Burial: Northampton County, North Carolina

Abraham married Mary Jenkins, daughter of Dr. Winborne Jenkins and Emma Futrell, about 1776. Mary was born about 1750 in North Carolina, USA and died about 1847 about age 97. {FSID: 9F4N-G9M}

General Notes: The following information was provided by Alan C. Stephenson, from Chapel Hill, North Carolina, March 25, 2010:

Notes for Mary Jenkins:

It is assumed that Mary Jenkins was the wife of Abraham based on the following provision in the will of Emmery Jenkins dated December 1, 1796 (NH WB :141):

“My will and desire is that all the rest of my property of every kind be equally divided between my daughters Mary Stephenson Charity Parker, my grandson David Parker and my grandson Jason Ricks to them and their heirs forever.”

Abraham also had a son named Jenkins.

____________________________________________________________________________________________

Now I have a question as to who the father of Mary Jenkins was??????

61 M i. William Stephenson was born about 1773 in Northampton County North Carolina, USA.

+ 62 M ii. Jenkins Stephenson was born in 1777 in Northampton County North Carolina, USA and died before 1812-Mar 1815 in Northampton County North Carolina, USA. {FSID: 9F4N-GM6}

+ 63 M iii. Arthur Stephenson was born about 1779 in Northampton County, North Carolina and died in 1823 in Northampton County, North Carolina about age 44.

+ 65 M v. Charles Stephenson was born about 1781 and died about 1836 about age 55. {FSID: M9PX-H7Q}

+ 66 M vi. Benjamin Thomas Stephenson was born in 1788 and died in 1873 in Northampton County, North Carolina, USA at age 85. {FSID: L6QC-J3M}

General Notes: **The following information was taken from Rebecca Leach Ddozier's book, "Twelve Northhampton County, North Carolina Families 1650-1850, published by Gateway Press, INC., Baltimore, MD 2004; page 340:

John (Abraham(4), Arthur(3), Abraham(2), John Stephenson(1)), a son of Abraham and Mary Jenkins Stephenson, was sfborn around 1780 in Northampton Co., NC. On 17 march 1823, "for natural love and affection that I have for my son John Stephenson," Abraham gave him all of his land and his Negroes. John Suter and James Daughtrey witnessesd this deed(94). Nothing more is know about this son of Abraham and Mary(95).

(94)Northampton Co., NC, DB 21, p. 326.

(95)A family tradition has it that this John died without any heirs except for his brothers. This author has not proved that tradition.

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This information was provided to me by Ed. Barnes.

No Children -- did not marry.

Real Property:
Book 21, page 326, deed of gift - Dated March 17, 1823, Rec Sept 20, 1823 - Abraham Stevenson to son John Stevenson for natural love and affection plus $1......all of my land which I am now possessed.....all of my negroes, names 10, and other property......3 beds of furniture,......of all my hogs, cattle, sheep, one buffet, and all perishable property.......
Signed Abraham (x) Stevenson. Witness; james Deberry, John Suter.

Other:
Note 1: Notes of Gilbert Stephenson lists John as without any comment about him.

Note 2. A hand written document of unknown origin - Given to me by Mildred Davis, daughter of Ethel Woodard Davis. "Mr. thomas Stephenson - Mrs. Nancy J. Stephenson- Pendleton, N. C. Mit (married Davis) Henry, & jno Jenk (?) Any (did not marry), Mary (did not marry), ThomAs (married nancy Woodard) Susan (married Tom Ricks), Jno died in war, buried at home, John -5th -?- of Abraham, He did not marry. Did not amount to much."

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The following information was provided by Alan C. Stephenson, from Chapel Hill, North Carolina, March 25, 2010:

Notes for John Stephenson:

John’s age is estimated based on the assumption that he was at least 21 years old at the date of the 1821 deed from his father Abraham. See deed 8 under Deeds in the Notes for Abraham.

John also was an executor named in the will of his brother Arthur (see Will in the Notes for Arthur (d.1823)), acted as guardian for the minor children of his brother Jenkins (see Estate Records in the Notes for Jenkins) and was trustee under a deed of trust for David, a son of Arthur (d. 1823) (see deeds 3 and 4 under Deeds in the Notes for David).

Northampton County court minutes indicate that John was a constable of the county in the 1820’s.

Deeds:

1. See deeds described in Notes for Abraham and deeds described in Notes for David.

2. John Pledger to John Stevenson dated January 3, 1824, $220 for 110 acres adjoining Benjamin Boon, ???? Oliver, Indian branch, Zaccheus Martin, Etheldred Martin, ???? Darden and the road; witnessed by Joseph Daughtery and George W. Pledger. NH DB 22:157.

3. Absalom Jenkins to John Stevenson dated December 14, 1824, deed of gift for “befriending the said Absalom Jenkins in standing his security to a bond given to said Charles Gutting” for “all and singular my goods and chattels [sic] now being in my possession”, 36-3/4 acres purchased from Charles Gutting, one sorrel mare, three feather beds and furniture, parcel of hogs and “all the balance of my perishable property”; witnessed by Jeremiah P. Johnston and Amos Parker. NH DB 22:351.

4. Jesse Smith to John Stevenson dated September 22, 1827, deed of trust securing debts of Jesse Smith to Zaccheus Martin covering land adjoining William Deloach, Willie Suiter and others; witnessed by Joseph Daughtery and Amos Parker. NH DB 24:27.

5. John Stevenson to Benjamin Boon dated February 27, 1829, $500 for 250 acres adjoining Benjamin Boon, Arthur Stevenson’s heirs, the “lands where Benjamin Boon now lives”. Zaccheus Martin, Abram Darden and Nathan Britton; signed by John [no mark indicated]; witnessed by Joseph H. Wood. NH DB 25:37.

6. John Stevenson and Littleberry Daughtery to Howell Hedgpeth dated April 15, 1829, $132 for 110 acres adjoining Zaccheus Martin and Benjamin Boon; signed by John [no mark indicated]; witnessed by Zaccheus Martin and William Thory. NH DB 25:38.

Census Records:

1. 1830 Federal Census (page 99): John Stephenson-1 white male 15-19; 1 white male 20-29; 1 white male 50-59; 5 slaves.

2. 1840 Federal Census (page 117): Jno. Stephenson -2 white males under 5; 1 white male 20-29; 1 white female under 5; 1 white female 20-29; 4 slaves.

Tax Records:

See introductory note under Tax Records in Notes for Jesse.

1. 1823 Tax List (District 7): 1 free poll; 4 black polls; 249 acres of land valued at $750.

2. 1824 Tax List (District 7): John Stevenson-1 free poll; 5 black polls; 369 acres of land valued at $1,107.

3. 1828 Tax List (District 7): John Stephenson-1 free poll; 7 black polls; 430 acres of land valued at $1,114.

Birth date of Bef 1801 from Alan C. Stephenson.

43. Mildred "Milley" Stephenson (Arthur Sr.¹⁷, Abraham Sr.³, (William) John Jr.², John Sr.¹) was born before 1770 and died in 1806. {FSID: LCX8-RBW}

General Notes: **The following information was taken from Rebecca Leach Ddozier's book, "Twelve Northhampton County, North Carolina Families 1650-1850, published by Gateway Press, INC., Baltimore, MD 2004; page 332-333:

Mildred ((Arthur(3), Abraham(2), John Stephenson(1)), daughter of Arthur and Elizabeth (mnu) Stephenson, was born in the Northampton County area of North Carolina. Her name was spelled various ways in documents found in Northampton County's Courthouse and in estate records in the NC Archives in Raleigh. She was referred to as Mildred, Milly, Milesesnt, and Milicent. In her father's will and in her own will she was referred to as "Milly." In her husband Richard Smith's Northampton County 1780 will she was referred to as "Milesent." Milly married Richard after 1762 and was his second wife(51). "Millison" was recorded on the 1784/87 census without a husband. On this census she had four males less than 21 years of age and three females who lived in her home. Richard wrote his will 4 November 1780, and it was probated in Northampton County's December's Court in 1780(52). He named his wife as "Milescent," and he named his sons as Solomon, Joseph, Nathaniel, Josey, Benjamin, and Lawrence Smith. He named his daughters as Mary O'Quinn, Silvia Smith, and Susannh Smith. Milly loved many years after her husband's death. She wrote her will on 6 Feb 1806, and it was probated in Northampton's March Court, 1813(53). In her will she mentioned "her daughter" Susannah Britian as her heir, stating that she was to be paid out of the estate of Richard Smith, deceased, by Solomon Smith and Henry Deberry, Richard's executors. She also mentioned "his children," but she did ot name the children in her will. Milly definitelyl was Susannah Brittain's mother, and it is assumed that she was the mother of sesveral of Richard's other children. The author found no proof of Milly's connection to Richard Smith's children Solomon, Nathaniel, Josey, Benjamin, Lawrence, Mary O'Quin, Silvia, or Susannah Smith.

(51)Bradley, Stephen, The Deeds of Northampton Co., NC 1759-1774, p. 45, DB 3, p. 26; In this deed, dated 2 Dec. 1762, Richard has a wife named Amy, indicating that Milly was probablly his 2nd wife.

(52)Hofmann, Margaret M., Northampton Co., NC 1759-1808, Gen. Abstracts of Wills, p. 37, #157: Northampton Co., NC WB 1, p. 235: Richard Smith's will.

(53)Original copy of Milly's will found in the NC Archives, Northampton Co., NC estate papers, filed under "Milly Smith, 1813."

__________________________________________________________________________________________________
The following information was provided by Alan C. Stephenson, from Chapel Hill, North Carolina, March 25, 2010:

Birth and death dates from Alan.

Notes for Mildred Stephenson (Smith):

Mildred’s birth date is estimated based on the estimated birth date of her daughter Susannah Britain. See introductory note in the Notes for Susannah.

Will dated February 6, 1806 (NH WB :23):

“In the name of God amen, I Milly Smith of Northampton County and State of North Carolina being very weak and low in health bu in my perfect memory do make this my last will and testament (to wit) I give my love to God which gives it me and my body to the earth from which it came and for my worldly goods after my just debts are paid my desire is as follows (to wit) I lend and bequeath unto my beloved daughter Susannah Britain one mare and horse and three pounds to be paid out of the Estate to the Executors of Richard Smith dec’d.
Solomon Smith, Henry Deberry for said mare,
Item: I lend and bequeath unto said beloved daughter Susannah Britain her life after to be equally divided among her all that I hath, and I do hereby appoint Jesse Britain and John Britain my sole Executors and do hereby disowned [sic] all other wills before made whereas I do set my hand and seal this sixth day of February Anno Dom: 1806

Test: Milly (her mark) Smith
Abraham (his mark) Stevenson
Jenkins Stevenson
James (his mark) Parker”

General Notes: The following information was provided by Alan C. Stephenson, from Chapel Hill, North Carolina, March 25, 2010:

Notes for Susannah Smith Britain:

Susannah’s birth date is estimated based on the assumption that, as a married woman, she was at least 18 years old at the date of the will of her mother Mildred Smith. See Will in the Notes for Mildred.

Susannah married Unknown Britain on 19 Aug 1810 in St Peters, Nottingham, Nottingham, England.¹ Another name for Unknown is James Britain.¹ {FSID: M7ZM-DD8}

44. Winifred Stephenson (Abraham Jr.¹⁸, Abraham Sr.³, (William) John Jr.², John Sr.¹) was born about 1752 in Virginia, USA and died about 1787 in Greene, North Carolina, USA about age 35. {FSID: LCX8-2X9}

45. Claodesha Stephenson (Abraham Jr.¹⁸, Abraham Sr.³, (William) John Jr.², John Sr.¹) was born on 18 Apr 1755 and died on 18 Apr 1784 at age 29. {FSID: KDB5-7GZ}

General Notes: Originally, I did not know her name, but was able to find it in the Jacob Darden genealogy database online. (http://www.angelfire.com/nc/pinno/Dfam.html) She is listed there as Claodesha Stephenson (2nd wife), married about 1774. She is listed as the daughter of Abraham Stephenson. By April 4, 1885 William Darden is married again (3rd time) to Susanna Speight. I assume that Claodesha died some time before that date.

http://trees.ancestry.com/tree/44113050/mediax/e45f345c-6776-49c9-b774-8c59694b0197 from this site I learned the birth and death dates of Claodesha Stephenson Darden...died at the age of 29 on her birthday.

Claodesha married William Darden about 1774. William was born on 28 Jan 1748 in Meherrin River, Hertford County, North Carolina and died in Mar 1801 in Dobbs County, North Carolina at age 53. {FSID: KJZF-TGY}

General Notes: Information provided here was taken from the Jacob Darden genealogy online database: http://www.angelfire.com/nc/pinno/Dfam.html

also:

http://www.angelfire.com/nc/pinno/darden.html

__________________________________________________________________________

Hertford County NcArchives Biographies.....Darden, William
Copyright. All rights reserved.
http://www.usgwarchives.net/copyright.htm
http://www.usgwarchives.net/nc/ncfiles .htm

File contributed for use in USGenWeb Archives by:
Cliff Darden - cliffdarden@cs.com

William Darden

William Darden, the patriarch of the Greene County, NC Dardens, was born
January 28, 1748, according to the old family Bible (Copyright 1816,
Battleborough, VT) of his son Abraham. He was most likely born in the Maney's
Neck area of Northampton (now Hertford) County, NC north of what is today
Como, NC. He was probably the second son of Elisha Darden (son of Stephen
Darden of Nancemond County, VA) and Elizabeth Williamson (daughter of Joseph
Williamson of Southampton County, VA). He most likely grew up on a moderate
size plantation on the north side of Buckhorn Creek in close proximity to what
is today Hwy 258. He probably spent a good deal of time at the home of his
uncle, Jethro Darden, whose decaying house may be seen approximately ¼ mile
north of Buckhorn Creek and about 200 yards west of Hwy 258.

Hertford County was created from Northampton County in 1760. Because Hertford
records have been twice burned, the story of William's youth and early
adulthood is sketchy.

On December 5, 1764, at age 16, William and his older brother, David,
witnessed a deed by which their father bought 200 acres of land in Northampton
County (DB 3 page 361) along Bear Swamp from Thomas Vinson. Elisha apparently
died between 1764 and 1768, because the land was sold back to Thomas Vinson on
May 5, 1768 (DB 4 page 156) for the same price, at which time Lewis Williamson
(possibly Elizabeth's brother) relinquished her right of dower.

William Darden married Claodesha Stephenson (born April 18, 1755), the
daughter of Abraham Stephenson, a wealthy planter of Hertford County, in about
1774. On February 16, 1775 their first child, Sarah, was born. On May 30,
1776, their second, Elizabeth, was born. August 3, 1778, saw the birth of
their third daughter, Priscilla. On February 16, 1781, about one month before
the Revolutionary battle of Guilford Courthouse, their last child and only
son, Abraham, named after his maternal grandfather, was born on his sister
Sarah's birthday.

According to the Revolutionary War Pension Application affidavit of John Taylor
(#S.7.684 filed in Greene County, NC on February 11, 1833), William was the ensign
in the Hertford County Militia in 1779 (just as his father Elisha was in the
Northampton County Militia before the existence of Hertford County) when they
marched to Suffolk and Jericho in Virginia in pursuit of the British (perhaps
after the burning of the supply depot at Suffolk in May, 1779). Since the British
had boarded ships they returned to Hertford County. They were then ordered to
Edenton where they remained until the end of August, 1779.

Hertford County tax lists which survive in the NC Archives show that in 1779
(LP 30.1) William was the owner of 185 acres of land, 6 slaves, 16 pounds
cash, 4 horses, 11 cattle valued at 4037 pounds 13 shillings and 4 pence.

The "Treasurer and Comptroller Records - Military Papers of NC" show that in
September, 1781 he was paid 3205 pounds for "cloathg" by William Skinner,
Treasurer of the Edenton District (Vol. 47 page 30 #1222). He also received 23
pounds 4 shillings on August 1, 1783 (voucher #1928) and 51 pounds 10 shillings
for "sundries" on August 16, 1783 (Vol. 41 page 23 #2041) allowed by auditors
of Edenton District of militia of VA, NC, and SC.

In 1782 (CR. 51.702.1) he had 185 acres, 8 slaves, 3 horses and mules, and 16
cattle and paid 531 pounds tax. The 1784 tax list (LP 64.1) shows 289 acres, 1
free polled, 4 blacks polled. Claodesha S. Darden died on her birthday, April
18, 1784, aged 29.

Nearly a year later, on April 4, 1785, William married Susanna Speight,
daughter of the wealthy planter Joseph Speight and Ann Gatling of Gates County
(Gates Co. Marriage Bonds-NC Archives). Their only child, Joseph Speight
Darden (again named after his maternal grandfather) was born February 23, 1786
one week after the birthday of his half brother and sister in Hertford County.
Though Susannah is not mentioned in the will of her father (Gates WB 1 pages 105-7),
she was still alive at the time of his death according to the testimony of William
Augustus Darden (1804-1877)in Gatlin vs Darden in 1832. Joseph is given 5 slaves
and 12 shillings in the will probated in 1791.

In about 1788, William and Susannah moved their family of 5 children to
northeastern Dobbs County, NC, where his brother-in-law Titus Carr (who had married
Claodesha's sister Winifred Stephenson) had settled in about 1785.

The first US Census in 1790 shows 3 white males (William, Abraham, and
Joseph), 1 free white female (probably Priscilla) and 11 slaves. At this time
William was living in Dobbs County on the Pitt County border south of Sandy
Run, east of Ned's Branch on land formerly in the possession of Albert
Sidney, John Cowan, and James Henry Darden Jr. According to the NC Land
Grants, this land was granted to William Bryant (Dobbs Co. $1488, #1489,
October 29, 1782) Benjamin Bryant (son of William) sold the land to William
Darden (Dobbs Grantee Index 1759-1792, Book 15 page 87).

Because of fires in the Lenoir and Greene County courthouses, again, official
records of William are sparse.

1790 was an eventful year. On January 5, David Darden, William's older
brother, sold a slave to Benjamin May in Pitt County (DB M page 312), probably
while on a visit. Sometime during the year Sarah, William's oldest daughter at
15, married Joel Moye of Pitt County, 7 years her senior and settled on the
north side of Sandy Run. They were to have 8 children (Abraham D., Elbert,
William D., Elizabeth, Eliza, Claodesha, Minerva, and Alfred) before his death
in 1817 at the age of 49. On August 28, William witnessed the sale in Pitt
County land to his friend Francis Parker of Gates County (DB M page 485).

Sometime in early 1791, old Abraham Stephenson died in Northampton County
leaving William the lion's share of his estate. William was also named
executor, even though Claodesha had been dead and William remarried for over 4
years before the will was written in 1788, and even though Abraham's son
Charles Stephenson was still alive (NH WB 1 pages 427-9). William filed an
estate inventory as executor on May 6, 1791 (CR 071.514.1). Of 38 slaves
disposed of in the will, William received 15 for his lifetime, and his sister-
in-law, Winifred Stephenson Carr (wife of Titus) received 9. Also mentioned
are Abraham Stephenson's 4 grandchildren by Claodesha; Sarah, Elizabeth,
Priscilla and Abraham. Abraham was to receive the plantation if Charles
Stephenson and his son John died without heirs in addition to 2 slaves, Tody
and Fong. The girls were to share in the division of slaves with him at their
father's death.

In the "List of Justices of the Peace and Militia Officers, 1784-1806" (G.O.
146 page 257) William Darden was appointed by the governor as Justice of the
Peace in Glasgow County in 1793.

Susannah died after 1791, and William apparently took a third wife, possibly
a daughter of Robert Witherington (now Worthington). Sarah, Elizabeth, Priscilla
and Abraham sued as heirs over his estate division in June, 1801. (This
information is from Dr. Charles R. Holloman, Raleigh). William fathered 3
additional children, Nancy, Susannah, and Rebecca between 1790 and his death
in 1801. There must have been ill feelings between these 3 and the older 5
children, as they are not mentioned in Abraham Darden's Bible, nor in Wm. S.
Darden's Bible.

On January 20, 1793, William Darden sold 150 acres of a 640 acre Pitt County
land grant (April 16, 1792), south of the Tar River (DB N page 25) to George
Moye. On February 8, 1793, William sold 2 parcels of his Pitt County land to
Stephen Brooks (DB O page 176). On October 25, 1794, he witnessed a Pitt
County deed to Elias Carr (DB N page 235).

According to the minutes of the Northampton County Court of Pleas & Quarter
Sessions 1792-6, he purchased land from Lawrence Futral (registered March 3, 1794)
and from John Futrell (proved by an oath of his brother Reddick Darden) in 1795.

Sometime before 1795, possibly as early as 1790, (since Elizabeth may not have
been living at home when the census was taken), William's second daughter
married James Moye of Pitt County. On April 22, 1795, William witnessed the
purchase of slaves by his neighbor, Isaac Turnage (DB N page 492). On July 29,
1795, his son-in-law, James Moye sold 200 of the 640 acre grant of 1792 that
had apparently been a gift by William to Elizabeth and James.

On January 5, 1798, William Darden of Glasgow County witnessed by his brother
Reddick, gave a young slave girl to Polly Norfleet of Northampton County (DB
11 page 92). Could she possibly have been his third wife? On November 20,
1798, Elizabeth Moye gave ½ the share of the slaves she was to inherit from
her grandfather's estate upon the death of her father to her children David,
Gatling and Zelota Moye (DB O page 258). James Moye appears to be deceased at
this time, because his wife's deed of gift was witnessed by William Moye and
Joel Moye. 23 acres were surveyed in Glasgow County for a grant to William
Darden on the same day by William Holliday and witnessed by Abraham Darden.

Probably sometime between 1795 and 1800, William's third daughter, Priscilla,
married Richard Williams of Pitt County.

In 1799, William's older brother, David, of Hertford County, died. William, as
executor of his brother's estate, and Abraham made the trip up to David's
Meherrin Plantation, where William gave Abraham some of his brother's
livestock. They returned early in 1800 when William conducted the estate sale.
This was reported by William's brother Reddick (NH CB 11 pages 192-3).

The 1800 US Census of Greene County lists William Darden with 1 free white
male 10-16 (Joseph), 1 16-26 (Abraham), and 1 45 and over (himself). Also in
his household, 2 free white females under 10 (Nancy and either Susannah or
Rebecca), and 1 16-26 (probably his third wife, then pregnant), and 25 slaves.
It seems apparent from the Bibles that Sarah, Elizabeth, Priscilla, Abraham
and Joseph all considered themselves one family. Possibly because of the age
difference Nancy, Susannah, and Rebecca are not mentioned in the Bibles.

In the 1800 Greene County election (NC General Assembly records, November and
December 1800 Session), "William Darden Esq" is noted to have voted for Hymrick
Hooker.

The old Bible of Abraham Darden reports that "Wm Darden father to A. Darden
departed this life 2nd March at day break in the year of our Lord 1801".
Apparently William died of some type of illness and his death greatly
disturbed his eldest son. He was probably buried in the old cemetery near
Ned's Branch at Willow Green in a now unmarked grave.

William left 3 daughters (by this time it appears Elizabeth had married Jolly
Olds of Greene County), Abraham (barely 20), Joseph (barely 15), 3 very young
daughters, and a widow.

Joel Moye, William's eldest son-in-law, conducted the estate sale on June 2,
1801 (John C. Darden of Farmville has an 1806 copy of the 10 page
documentation of the sale). Among those present making purchases in addition
to William's heirs were: Jonathan Frizzelle, Randol Johnson, John Harper,
Isaac Pipkin, William Hart Jr., Hardy Handcock, William Moye Jr., William
Riddick, Jesse Moye, David Clarke, Gideon Olds, Thomas Dyer, John Pope Jr.,
Thomas Dail, Enos Rogers, Charles Carr, Archibald Adams, Lucy Bowings, Dempsey
Simmons, John Moore the hatter, Sarah Brown, George Moye, Cornelius Rawls,
William Moye Sr., William Turnage Jr., John Moye, Thomas Holliday, Elias Carr,
George Moye Jr., Micajah Edwards, Abraham Turnage, James Jordan, William
Williams, James Holland, John Joiner, Benjamin Tison, Alexander Parker, Loe
Jackson, and William Moore. The sale brought over 877 pounds.

The most intriguing name of those making purchases is that of Frances Darden,
probably William's third wife. She seems to be mentioned by name nowhere else
in public or private records.

Among three items offered for sale were a large bell bought by Joel Moye, 6
horses, 13 sheep, 24 cattle, 36 hogs, 5 feather beds and furniture, a Bible
bought by Joel Moye, sermon books by William Moye Jr. and Abraham Darden,
7 "Acts of Assembly" by Joel Moye, a pair of silver buckles and a copy
of "Martin's Justice" by Abraham Darden, a pair of silver shoe buckles by
Abraham Darden, ½ dozen silver tea spoons by Richard Williams, a pair of money
scales by Joel Moye, a still by William Moye Sr., a coat (probably belonging
to his father) by Joseph Darden, a pair of spectacles by George Moye
(suggesting that William wore glasses probably for reading).

Also inventoried were 677 acres of land, 12 slaves and bonds and notes from
William Hart Jr., Malcom McDuffie and Willis Darden (Williams's brother),
James Calif (from David Darden's estate), obligations in the hands of
William's first cousin Jethro Darden of Hertford County, David Clarke, William
Hart Sr., William Tison, Jesse Pipkin, John W. Tolks, Charles Williams and
Sherrod Hines. Joel Moye mentions several other notes, but doubted that they
were collectable.

In August, 1801, after the harvest, the court set aside provisions for "Widow
Darden".

On August 8, 1801, Oliver Smith of Pitt County deeded 585 acres of land that
had previously been paid for to William's survivors (DB P pages 6-7). In
November, the land was divided by the county court among his survivors,
Priscilla, Abraham, Joseph, Rebecca, Sarah, Susannah, Elizabeth, and Nancy (DB
P page 53).

The Greene County land was divided in January, 1802 (copies of the original
were in the possession of James H. Darden Jr. of Greenville). Abraham (whose
guardian was Joel Moye) received 92 acres, Priscilla received 97 acres, Sarah
82 acres, Nancy (through guardian Jonas Williams) 78 acres, and Joseph
(guardian also Joel Moye) received 133 acres including the widow's dower (and
possibly the old house). Elizabeth's, Susannah's and Rebecca's shares are not
mentioned except for equalizing amounts to be paid to Jonathan Frizzle
(Rebecca and Susannah's guardian), and Jolly Olds (Elizabeth's husband), but
they probably received land because the above totals almost 200 acres less
than was recorded in the inventory at the estate sale.

The loss of the 1810 US Census of Greene County makes difficult fixing the
death of William's widow, but she died sometime between 1801 and her daughters
Susannah and Rebecca, whose Pitt County lands were divided in January, 1819
(DB CC pages 49, 51). Nancy married John H. Dixon of Greene County. They
apparently died at about the same time. Their estate was divided in August,
1844 (Greene Co. Estates, 1839-1845 pages 425-9-NC Archives) among their
children William D., Willis H., Tilman, Joseph, Elizabeth, Caroline, Emiline,
John R., and Priscilla A. Dixon.

Jolly Olds, Elizabeth's second husband apparently died before February 11,
1805 when Elizabeth sold a slave to Jonathan Frizzle in Pitt County (DB Q page
67). She married Jethro Warren on June 15, 1806 and died September 12, 1820.
She appears to have had no children by her last 2 marriages. She was probably
buried in a now unmarked grave in the old cemetery.

Sometime before 1819, Richard Williams died and Priscilla married Willis
Dupree of Greene County. She died August 27, 1843. It is not known whether
Priscilla had any children by either marriage. William's eldest daughter Sarah
did not remarry after her husband's death in 1817, and she lived until
sometime after 1828.

Cliff Darden
Wilson NC
Revised & updated November, 2012

General Notes: Information provided here was taken from the Jacob Darden genealogy online database: http://www.angelfire.com/nc/pinno/Dfam.html

General Notes: Husband #2

Information provided here was taken from the Jacob Darden genealogy online database: http://www.angelfire.com/nc/pinno/Dfam.html

74 M iv. Abraham Darden was born on 16 Feb 1781 and died on 22 Sep 1829 at age 48. {FSID: KZNY-5ZL}

General Notes: Information provided here was taken from the Jacob Darden genealogy online database: http://www.angelfire.com/nc/pinno/Dfam.html

46. Charles Stephenson (Abraham Jr.¹⁸, Abraham Sr.³, (William) John Jr.², John Sr.¹) was born before 1759 and died in Jan 1793. {FSID: LCX8-VRF}

General Notes: The following information was provided by Alan C. Stephenson, from Chapel Hill, North Carolina, March 25, 2010:

Notes for Charles Stephenson

The birth date of Charles is estimated based on the assumption that he was at least 18 years old when he witnessed the 1776 deed from his father Abraham Jr. to John Fly. See 1 under Deeds in the Notes for Abraham Jr.

It appears that Charles had two wives, Dorcas and Mary, as well as daughters named Dorcas and Mary. The 1788 will of Abraham Jr. names a daughter-in-law Dorcas Stevenson but not son other than Charles. His will also names a granddaughter Polly Stevenson but not a granddaughter Dorcas or Mary. Item 2 of the estate records of Charles described below indicates that his wife at the time of his death was Mary. The estate records described below also indicate that Charles had a daughter Mary (item 3) as well as daughters Polly and Dorcas (item 1). Therefore, it is assumed that Charles’ first wife was named Dorcas and that they had a daughter Polly before August 21, 1788, the date of Abraham Jr.’s will, and a second daughter named Dorcas some time after that date. It is further assumed that Charles’ first wife Dorcas died some time prior to Charles’ death in 1793, that Charles married second wife Mary and that they had conceived a daughter named Mary before Charles’ death in 1793. To further complicate things, both Charles’ daughters Polly and Mary seem to have married a Bryant.

Deeds and Land Records:

1. See Deeds and Land Records under Notes for Abraham Jr.

2. Charles Stephenson to Benjamin Boon dated February 1, 1782, 40 pounds for 210 acres adjoining a branch, James Vaughan, Jacob Boon Sr., Abraham Wall and James Griffin; witnessed by Jacob Boon and Absalom Cobb. NH DB 7:111. [It is not clear that the Charles in this deed was the son of Abraham Jr. Evidence of how Charles acquired this land has not been found, and the other men named in this deed owned land between Patty’s Delight and Corduroy Swamp, rather than a little farther north on the Meherrin River where Abraham Jr.’s land was located. See Deeds and Land Grants in Notes for Arthur Sr.]

3. See item 4 under Estate Records below.

Estate Records:

1. It is not clear whether Charles died intestate or left a will, but no will has been found in the records. John Boon was appointed administrator of the estate. See bond dated June 4, 1793. Other documents state that Hudson Thompson acted as Charles’ executor. See bond dated December 2, 1793. John Boon was initially appointed guardian for Charles’ minor daughters Polly and Dorcas. See bonds dated September 2, 1793.

2. Petition of Charles’ widow Mary for allotment of dower in Charles’ land adjoining Joseph Boon, James Jenkins and others states that Charles died some time in the month of January 1793. However, Mary was found not entitled to dower for reasons unspecified. [Northampton County Court Records, Minutes 1792-1792, 1813-1821. C.071.3001, page 193.]

3. In the 1807 June Term of the court, Benjamin Bryant and his wife Mary filed a petition alleging that John Boykin, who had been appointed guardian for Charles’ daughter Mary in 1796, had misappropriated her property by taking all but a small portion of the funds from the rent of real estate and for the hire of slaves for his own use.

4. On February 10, 1808, five commissioners appointed by the court divided 543 acres of land in Charles’ estate between his heirs Polly Bryant and Dorcas Barnes. The plat is this document shows the property adjoining the Meherrin River, Cow Island gut, the long branch, the old county line, Robert Cobb, James Hosey, Lazarus Cook, William Boon, John Fly and Samuel Deberry. This land appears to be the same land described in deed 6 under Deeds and Land Grants in Notes for Abraham Sr. [The records do not indicate where Charles’ estate included other real estate, although item 3 above may suggest it did, or why Charles’ daughter Mary or his son John, if alive, did not receive a share of the land allotted to Polly and Dorcas.]

Census Records:

1. 1786 NH Census (page 21 in Capt. Andrew’s District): Charles Stepherson [sic]-1 white male 21-60; 3 white females all ages; 4 blacks 12-50; 1 black under 12 or above 50.

2. 1790 Federal Census (page ):

More about Charles Stephenson and Mary Unknown:
Marriage: Bet 1788 - 1793

Birth and death dates from Alan C. Stephenson.

General Notes: The following information was provided by Alan C. Stephenson, from Chapel Hill, North Carolina, March 25, 2010:

Notes for Dorcas Stephenson (Barnes):

Dorcas’ birth date is based on the assumption set forth in the introductory notes in the Notes for her father Charles.

51. John Stephenson (Solomon Sr.³⁴, William Jonathon⁸, (William) John Jr.², John Sr.¹) was born in 1752 in Virginia, USA and died on 16 Jan 1828 in Johnston County, North Carolina, USA at age 76.

General Notes: Source - http://trees.ancestry.com/tree/7221440/person/933847309
__________________________________________________________________________

From -- https://www.ancestry.com/family-tree/person/tree/25360188/person/1648036188/facts

Served in the Revolutionay War

rstephenson6_1 john and Lucy: Lucy Johnson. She was born perhaps about 1755-1760 probably in Johnston Co., NC, and married before October 20, 1777 in Johnston County, John Stephenson (b. abt. 1750-1755), son of Solomon Stephenson, Sr. and his wife, Sarah. John Stephenson and wife Lucy resided near Camp and Stephenson Mill (now Hooks) Branches in present day Pleasant Grove Township, Johnston County, NC. According to the minutes of Fellowship Primitive Baptist Church, Lucy Stephenson died November. 8, 1816
7 years ago

rstephenson6_1 Johns will Jan 6th 1828: John Stephenson devised his will in Johnston Co., NC on January 6, 1828 (Probated February 25, 1828; Johnston County Will Book 1, p. 347), naming wife Sarah (i.e. Sarah Pleasants, his second wife), sons Henry, Amos, and Allen Stephenson, and daughters Mary Ogburn, Sarah Coats, Edith Johnson, Lucy Lassiter, and Charlotte Avera.
_______________________________________________________________________________

John married Lucy Johnson. Lucy was born in 1755 in Johnston County, North Carolina, USA and died on 8 Nov 1816 in Pleasant Grove, Johnston County, North Carolina, USA at age 61.

79 F i. Mary Stephenson was born in 1786 in Johnston County, North Carolina, USA and died in 1876 in Johnston County, North Carolina, USA at age 90.

Mary married John Ogburn. John was born on 16 Nov 1766 in Sussex County, Virginia, USA and died on 21 Dec 1841 in Johnston County, North Carolina, USA at age 75.

54. Solomon Stephenson Jr. (Solomon Sr.³⁴, William Jonathon⁸, (William) John Jr.², John Sr.¹) was born in 1747 and died in 1781 at age 34. {FSID: L441-NZW}

General Notes: Johnston County NcArchives Wills.....Stephenson, Solomon 1859
************************************************
Copyright. All rights reserved.
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************************************************

File contributed for use in USGenWeb Archives by:
Mark Valsame mv66nc@msn.com October 30, 2017, 6:05 pm

Will of Solomon Stephenson

Johnston County, NC Original Wills, State Archives of North Carolina, Raleigh,
NC; Recorded Copy, Johnston County, NC Will Book 2, 1761-1860, p. 18.
Devised February 5, 1859,
Proven November Term, 1861.

In the name of God Amen.
I Solomon Stephenson Jr. of the County of Johnston and State of North Carolina
being of Sound mind and disposing memory, do make and ordain this my last Will
and Testament in manner and form following that is to say, First that my
Executor, herein after named, shall provide for my body a decent burial
suitable to the wishes of my friends and relatives and pay all funeral
expenses together with my just debts howsoever and to whomsoever owing out of
the moneys which may first come to his hands as part or parcel of my estate.
Second I loan to my beloved wife Creasy Stephenson during her natural life,
all the Estate of which I may die s[e]ized and posses[s]ed both real personal
or mixed.
Item As I have heretofore given to my beloved Children to wit Jesse
Stephenson, Allen, Osburn, Merrett, Newet and Penelope Stephenson their full
Share of my Estate I hereby give and bequeath to my beloved Son Alfred
Stephenson all the Estate hereby loaned to my wife Real personal and mixed
which may remain at the death of my said wife Creasy.
And lastly I do hereby Nominate Constitute and appoint my trusty son Alfred
Stephenson my true and lawful Executor to all intents and purposes to execute
this my last will and Testament, hereby revoking and declaring utterly void
all other wills and Testaments, by me, heretofore made this the 5th day of
Feby. 1859.
Signed Sealed published
and declared by the said Solomon Stephenson (Seal)

[Verso]

Solomon Stephenson Jr. to be
his last will and Testament
in our presence, who at his
request, and in his presence
and in the presence of each
other, do Subscribe our names
as witnesses thereto
John H. Kenneday
Merit Woodall

Will
Solomon Stephenson

Recorded in "Will
Docket" A Page 18

[Attached]

State of North Carolina Court of Pleas and Quarter
Johnston County Sessions, November Term A.D.
1861
The foregoing paper writing purporting to be the last will and testament of
Solomon Stephenson deceased is exhibited for probate in open Court by Alfred
Stephenson the executor therein named, and the due execution thereof by the
said Solomon Stephenson is proved by the oath and examination of John H.
Kenneday and Merit Woodall the subscribing witnesses thereto. It is therefore
considered by the Court that the said paper writing, and every part thereof is
the last will and testament of the said Solomon Stephenson, and the same is
ordered to be recorded and filed. And thereupon the said Alfred Stephenson,
executor as aforesaid, duly qualified as such by taking the oath required by
law.

Wit. Thos. D. Snead C.C.C.

Transcribed by Mark Valsame, Raleigh, NC.

File at: http://files.usgwarchives.net/nc/johnston/wills/stephens2577gwl.txt

This file has been created by a form at http://www.genrecords.org/ncfiles/

File size: 3.7 Kb
_____________________________________________________________

+ 80 M i. David Stephenson was born circa 1772 and died circa 1851 about age 79. {FSID: LC3H-LQ6}

1. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, "FamilySearch Family Tree," database, FamilySearch (http://www.familysearch.org : accessed 11 Feb 2014), entry for Unknown Britain, person ID M7ZM-DD8.

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Decendents of John Stephenson Sr

Fifth Generation

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