To repeat from earlier notes, by way of placing families within their kinship group :

The case for the ancestry of such Virginia settlers as Thomas Harris, d. 1672, Thomas Harris, d. 1688, and Thomas Harris, d. 1629/30, is made hereinafter.

They were of different branches of the same family, from Wiveliscombe, Somerset, England, descendants of William Harris, b. ca. 1535, who m. Dorothy Westbrooke, on Aug. 31, 1562.

They were part of an English kinship group, based on intermarriages between the same families over successive generations, resulting in a multitude of cousinships; the ‘mesh’ which protected families from the turbulent events of English history, and the harsh realities of the Virginia frontier.

In a world devoid of ‘social security’, any marriage that did not add to a family’s economic stability was a threat, and the greatest dread of the ‘middling order’ was to be plunged into the ranks of the wage labourer. The major theme of all Jane Austen’s novels was that of advantageous marriage.

Overarching the basic model of kinship as a ‘social-economic enterprise’ was the relationship of families to the dominant family or families within their group. Powerful families provided the economic ‘umbrella’ under which others operated, and to which all others aimed to be closer through the strategy of intermarriage.

In the case of this Harris family, their intermarriage with the Bennetts (from whence Governor Richard Bennett), enable them to climb the ladder of social and economic advantage – in Darwinian term, the “ladder of survival”. All “good marriages” benefited all branches of a family, with them also becoming attractive marriage propositions.

The key to identifying a group of Harris as a singular entity is the continuation of associations in Virginia stemming from Elianor Bennett, of Wiveliscombe, sister of Edward Bennett, marrying Richard Harris (son of William Harris and Dorothy Westbrooke), and a son of theirs, Thomas Harris, marrying Judith Blake. The Blake and Westbrooke associations permeated through successive generations of Harris in Virginia.

The Harris family of Wiveliscombe and Virginia can be divided into two broad groups, ‘a’ and ‘b’, stemming from the two sons of William Harris and Dorothy Westbrooke, William and Richard, with each group having successive sub-divisions.

1. “John Harreys of Taunton”, clothier, b. ca. 1475, bur. Nov. 1, 1558, in Taunton. He is witnessed here: Carter v Harreis. Plaintiffs: John Carter. Defendants: John Harreis, Elizabeth, his wife. Subject: A tenement called `Suthome,’ in Glastonbury, held on lease from defendants by plaintiff, Isabel, his wife, and John, their son, for their lives. 1515-1518. (C 1/400/2).
1.1. Robert Harreys, b. ca. 1505. Harreys v The Mayor of London. Plaintiffs: Robert, son of “John Harreys of Taunton”. Defendants: The mayor, aldermen and sheriffs of London. Subject: Actions of debt by Robert Alford of London, draper, to whom complainant was apprentice, on bonds given by his father upon his apprenticeship and to secure his becoming a freeman of the City. Certiorari. London, Somerset. 1529-1532. (C 1/645/20).
1.1.1. William Harris, b. ca. 1535, m. Dorothy Westbrooke, on Aug. 31, 1562, in Wiveliscombe, Somerset, 9 miles from Taunton. He would have witnessed the bitter conflicts between Catholic and Protestant factions of the gentry; probably the defeat of the Spanish (Catholic) Armada in 1588, when, distinct from Hollywood versions of history, the Catholic half of England were praying for a Spanish invasion. He certainly married into a yeoman family, and was probably of one himself, being skilled in animal husbandry and cereal crop farming. He was a part of a upwardly mobile group, including the Bennetts, whose farming profits enabled them to venture in to the merchant trades of Bristol. He would have spoken a Somerset ‘drawl’ of elongated vowels, using a vocabulary long lost to us. Dorothy, his wife, would have had all the practical skills associated with farming – bread, butter, and cheesemaking. She would have been a brewer of strong cider.

HARRIS

1. William Harris, m. Dorothy Westbrooke*, on Aug. 31, 1562, in Wiveliscombe, Somerset.
1.1. Richard Harris, m. (1594) Elianor Bennett, sister of Edward Bennett*, and Thomas Bennett.

BENNETT (the connection of the various branches of the Harris family to the Bennetts were of a continuous a and close nature).
1.
1.1. Thomas Bennett, bapt. April 2, 1570.
1.1.1. Thomas Bennett, bapt. Nov. 5, 1603, who. m. Agnes Bearde, on July 17, 1623.
1.1.1.1. Richard Bennett, d. 1709, whose first wife was Anne, who was Charles Barham’s sister (see Douglas Richardson, ‘Plantagenet Ancestry’).
1.1.1.1.1. Martha Bennett, m. John Mangum Sr.
1.1.1.1.1. Richard Bennett, m. Sarah, who m. (2) Robert Lancaster. (B. 5, p. 22).
1.1.1.1.1.1. Frances Bennett, m. John Mangum Jr.
1.1.1.1.1.1.1. Mary Mangum, m. John Langston, March 2, 1730.
1.1.1.1.1.1.1.1. Absolom Langston, m. Christian, dau. of Richard Bennett (and Mary Batte), br. of the said Frances Bennett, as follows.
1.1.1.1.1.1.1.2. Joseph Langston, m. Alice Merrit.
1.1.1.1.1.1.1.2.1. James Mangum, m. Sussana Harris, Jan. 26, 1796, Joseph Mangum, bm. She was possibly one of the two daus. of Edmund Harris, b. 1775-1777.
1.1.1.1.1.1.2. William Mangum Sr., m. Mary, dau. John Person and Mary Partridge. (John Person’s Will, pr. March 21, 1738). John Person was probably of a family of that name from Long Ashton, Somerset, where they interm. with the Batte and Derick families.
1.1.1.1.1.1.3. Joseph Mangum. As follows – James Merritt* of Warren Co. sold 50 ac. on waters of Lick Branch, mention of Sarah Merritt’s line, wit: Joseph Mangham, James Harrison. (See under – 1.2.1.1.2.1.2. Newitt Harris). Joseph Mangum enters 90 ac. on the waters of Thomas Martin’s Creek, begining at Christmas’s Corner in Ball’s’s line, thence N. 75 poles to Forkner’s line, thence West 121 poles to the County line and by the same to Christmas’s line. (Bute Co. June 6, 1778). Thomas Christmas enters 120 ac. on the waters of Opossum Quarter joining the lines of Edward Green, Jas. Stiles, Wm. Duke*, and Wheeler Including the imp’t where Jno. Carroll now lives. (Bute Co., Dec. 19, 1778).
1.1.1.1.1.1.3.1. Reavis Mangum.
1.1.1.1.1.1.3.1.1. William Mangum, m. Arianna Duke, June 7, 1811. The name Mangum was probably a variant of Mingham/Mengham: John Mingham to Navy Commissioners. Offers his ship ‘Samuel’ for hire. Mar. 1671. (SP 46/137/284).

DUKE

(1. …
1.1. Henry Duke, m. Elizabeth (dau. John Taylor Jr., son of Richard Taylor and Sarah Barker, of the Barker family of Bristol); sister of Maria Taylor, wife of John Hardeman, the son of John Hardyman of Bristol, taylor, who gave letter of attorney to collect the debt of William Hudson of Nansemond Co., in 1667.
1.1.1. John Taylor Duke, half br. of:
1.1.2. John Duke, m. Lucy, dau. of Thomas House (Brunswick Co. W.B. 1, p. 185).
1.1.2.1. William Duke, father of:
1.1.2.1.1. Hardeman Duke (per Saint Andrew’s Parish Vestry Book); m. Elizabeth (Oct. 30, 1787), dau. of Joseph Harris (1.2.1.1.2.3 – Joseph Harris, as follows), and Jane, dau. of John Egerton and Elizabeth, dau. of James Nicholson.
1.1.2.1.2. *William Duke (ditto), m. Mary Carrington, Aug. 9, 1783, in Orange Co., NC.
1.1.2.1.2.1. Arianna Duke, m. William Mangum, on June 7, 1811, in Granville Co., NC.; probably related to: ‘Samuel Mangum, who m. Catey (Katherine) Harris, on Jan. 3, 1817; Isham Harris, b.m.).
1.1.3. James Duke.
1.1.3.1. Ann Duke, m. Thomas Christmas, d. Sept. 7, 1770, in St. Martins Parish, Hanover Co.
1.1.3.1.1. Sarah Christmas, m. Benjamin Sanders, d. May 12, 1766, in Hanover Co., son of George Sanders, and Hannah, dau. of … Creed.
1.1.3.1.1.1. Elizabeth Sanders, b. June 27, 1746, d. April 20, 1820, in Simstown, Union, SC. She m. James Sims (b. April 21, 174, d. Nov. 24, 1794, in Simstown); son of Mathew Sims, of New Kent Co., d. April 14, 1795, in Newberry, SC. He was the son of Mathew Sims, d. Feb 10, 1748, in James City, son of William Sims*.
1.1.3.1.2. John Christmas, m. Mary Graves, the granddau. of Elizabeth Taberer, sister-in-law of the 2nd wife of Thomas Harris, d. 1672.

SYMES

1. John Symes, of Poundisford Park, Pitminster, landlord of the Fulgham family of that place, one of whom, Nicholas Fulgham III., m. a granddau. of Thomas Harris, d. 1672.
1.1. William Symes,* bapt. March 12, 1610/11 (‘s.o. John’), m. Mary Sherwood, bapt. Apr. 12, 1624, in Pitminster, Somerset, dau. of Jacob Sherwood and Mary Babb, and sister of John Sherwood, bapt. Sept. 13, 1626. Hutchins v Symes. Plaintiffs: John Hutchins and Elizabeth Hutchins his wife. Defendants: *William Symes, Henry Symes and Thomas Symes. Subject: personal estate of the deceased John Symes of Poundisford etc, Somerset and Gloucestershire. 1664. (C 5/410/167).
1.1.1. *William Sims, b. ca. 1650, m. Mary …
1.1.1.1. Mathew Sims.
1.1.1.2. George Sims, d. bef. Dec. 24, 1745. Feb. 2, 1737, George Sims of St. Martin’s Parish, Hanover Co. deeds to John Walton and Mary his wife for love … land bound by George Sims, Abram Spencer, and John Sims, on Little River, on Short Branch.
1.1.1.2.1. Mary Sims, m. John Walton – probably a son of George Walton.

WALTON
The Walton family of Brunswick Co., Virginia, resided in the Glastonbury area of Somerset, England. They took their name from the village of Walton, which is 3¼ miles (N. W. by W.) from Glastonbury, and ca. 25 miles E. of Wiveliscombe.

1. George Walton, gent, b. ca. 1682, d. Oct. 31, 1766, m. Elizabeth Rowe, d. 1785, in Brunswick Co.
1.1. John Walton, m. Mary Sims.
1.2. Isaac Rowe Walton, d. Oct. 22, 1770, in Menherrin Parish, Brunswick Co., m. Elizabeth Ledbetter.
1.3. Mary Walton, born 1711 in Brunswick Co., d. July 17, 1779, m. Richard Ledbetter.
1.4. Catherine Walton, b. ca. 1722, d. June 20, 1812, in Brunswick Co., m. (1747) Nathan Harris.

BENNETT

1.1.1.1.1.2. William Bennett, m. Mary Hardy, dau. of George Hardy, and sister of Martha Hardy, wife of Edward Harris, d. 1677.
1.1.1.1.1.3. Ann Bennett, a beneficiary in the Will of Mathew Fones (1704), witnessed by Philip Pardoe, who witnessed the Will of Martha, wife of Edward Harris. Philip Pardoe’s estate was appraised by John Brantley Sr. Mathew Fones (of a Bristol family) witnessed the Will of George Hardy (1704).
1.1.1.1.1.4. Richard Bennett, m. Mary Batte.
1.1.1.1.1.4.1. James Bennett, who, on March 15, 1741, patented 190 ac. in IOW Co., on the S. side of Nottoway River, bounded by Ridley’s Branch*. (B. 20, p. 199). On July 10, 1745, he patented 382 ac. in Brunswick Co. on both sides of Gravelly Run, adj. Edward Jackson (B. 23, p. 946). In 1748, he received a grant of 404 ac. in Brunswick Co., on both sides of Rocky Run. Indenture made the 18th day of Sept., 1752, between John Irby (and Joseph Carter for 100 pounds, conveying 250 ac. lying on Lick Branch to the Otterdam Swamp, conveyed from Nathaniel Edwards to John Irby. Wit.: Nathaniel Edwards, William Edwards, Edward Rowell, William Reaves, and James Bennett. Indenture was also acknowledged by Jane Irby, wife of John Irby. Presented in Court on Oct. 24, 1752., B. 5, p. 269). For Irby, see as follows, under Jordan.

*William Kinchin, the exor. of the ‘Gibbins Wil’l, m. Elizabeth Ruffin, dau. of Robert Ruffin and Elizabeth Prime, dau. of Edward Prime and Ann, relict of Peter Ridley. Elizabeth Prime was the half-sister, thus, of (1) Elizabeth Ridley, who m. Charles Barham, whose sister, Ann, m. Richard Bennett, d. 1709, kinsman of Thomas Harris, d. 1672; (2) William Ridley. Mr. Charles Barham Exor, Thomas Harris (d. 1672) and Thomas Tooke overseers, witnessed the Will of William Ridley, who was the br. of Elizabeth Ridley, Charles Barham’s wife. Nathaniel Ridley Sr. was probably the br. of Elizabeth and William. His son, Nathaniel Ridley Jr., m. Priscilla Applewhaite, sister of Thomas Applewhaite, who m. Elizabeth Fulgham. John Westbrook (desc. of *Dorothy Westbrook’s brother) – appraisal by Nathaniel Ridley Jr. (husband of Priscilla Applewhaite), Edward Brantley and Thomas Cook; signed by John Person. R. Oct. 28, 1734

James Bennett’s Will was probated on March 1, 1752 as follows:

“To my son Benjamin Bennett all land lying between Honey Bottom and the upper line.
To my children James Bennet,* Mary Proctor, Frances Simms, Priscilla Dugger and Joseph Bennett, one shilling each.
To my son Reuben Bennett all the lower part from said Honey Bottom and plantation.
To my dau. Brambley Bennett, bible and furniture, etc.
To wife Mary rest of estate, she and son Reuben to be executors. Test: John Dugger, John Ducke and Edward Parrish”.

Mary Bennett, m. Nicholas Proctor, of Saint Andrews Parish, Brunswick, son of Joshua Proctor, and Katherine, dau. of Bartolomew Owen.
Priscilla Bennett m. John Dugger, son of Daniel Dugger, and Mary, dau. of Edward Scarborough.
Frances Bennett m. … Sims, a contemporary of George Sims Sr., who m. Martha Walton.
Reuben Bennett m. Mary Wilson, and was father of a namesake:

The Camden Journal, Jan. 26, 1848:

“Mr. Reuben Bennett, the last Revoluntionary Soldier in Lancaster District, died at his residence on the 14th of November last, aged 87 years. He was a native of Virginia, and after serving his country, first as a volunteer and then as a regular soldier, at the close of the war, settled in Lancaster, where he resided till the day of his death”.

1.1.1.1.1.4.1.1. James Bennett. Robert S. Harris*, m. Rachel Hollens, Feb. 23, 1781; James Bennett, bm. Henry Jackson to Drury Kimball. Bill of Sale, dated Dec. 30 1774, for a negro boy. Wit: Jno. Bell, James Bennett. Rec. Feb. Court, 1775.
1.1.1.1.1.4.1.1.1. Sussana Bennett, m. Sion Kimbrall/Kimball, Jan. 1800; Thomas Ricks Junr., bm. Granville Co. May Ct., 1811 – Drury Kimball Sr., in account with his son and guardian, Sion Kimball (Drury is non compos mentis), lists provisions, tools, crop, in inventory from 1809. (Guardian Accounts, Granville Co.). Sion was the br. of Drury Kimball Jr., who m. Polly Riggins, May 11, 1805, in Granville.
1.1.1.1.1.4.1.1.2. Prudence Bennett, m. William Lancaster, Jan. 9, 1799, Warren Co.; Jeremiah Stephenson*, bm.
1.1.1.1.1.4.1.1.3. Polly Bennett, m. John Lancaster* ( Dec. 23, 1813, John Mealor, bm.), br. of Priscilla Lancaster, who m. Bedford Harris, on Dec. 5, 1811; Joel Harris, bm. John Lancaster was the nephew of Moses Lancaster, who m. Martha, dau. of *Joseph Harris, and possible sister of *Robert S. Harris.

1.1.1.1.1.4.2. Amy Bennett, m. William Bobbitt (ca. 1725), in Warren Co.
1.1.1.1.1.4.2.1. William Bobbitt Jr.
1.1.1.1.1.4.2.2. John Bobbitt, m. Amy Alston, sister of Elizabeth Alston, who m. William Williams, April 10, 1810, Henry G. Williams, bm; having issue: Adkin Williams, who m. Chany Shearin, April 10, 1840.
1.1.1.1.1.4.2.2.1. Drury Bobbitt Sr.
1.1.1.1.1.4.2.2.2. Randolph Bobbitt.
1.1.1.1.1.4.2.2.3. William Bobbitt.
1.1.1.1.1.4.2.2.4. Sarah (Bobbitt) Harris*.

1.1.1.2. James Bennett, witnessed the Will of Joseph Bridger. Prob. Apr. 9, 1685:‘Son: William land granted to me by escheat of 850 ac. formerly belonging to Nathan Floyd, except what is disposed of by me to Francis Hobbs, Mrs. Dorothy Bond, and William Blount. Francis Hobbs was the br. of Margaret Hobbs, first wife of John Harris, son of Thomas Harris (d. 1672) and first wife, Eleanor.
1.1.2. Governor Richard Bennett, bapt. Aug. 6, 1609, d. 1675, in Virginia; his Will bequested two thousand pounds of tobacco to the wife of “Mr. Thomas Taberer”, whose dau., Ruth, m. John Newman, br-in-law of Thomas Harris, d. 1672
1.2. Edward Bennett, bapt. Feb. 2, 1577, in Wivelscombe; later of of St Olave, Southwark, London, and Lawn’s Creek, Virginia. His great- granddau., Mary Jackson, m. George Hardy, whose dau. m. Edward Harris.
1.3. Elianor Bennett, m. *Richard Harris.

HARRIS cont.

1. William Harris, m. Dorothy Westbrooke, sister of:

1. John Westbrooke, m. Margaret Davie, Sept. 19, 1573.
1.1. John Westbrooke, m. Christian Gille, June 9, 1600.
1.1.1. John Westbrook, b. 1601.
1.1.1.1. John Westbrooke, bapt. Feb. 16, 1623.
1.1.1.1.1. John Westbrook – appraisal by Nathaniel Ridley Jr., who, with Timothy Thorpe Jr., witnessed the Will of Edward Harris Jr., grandson of Thomas Harris, d. 1688.
1.1.1.1.1.1. James Westbrooke and wife Diana to John Thorpe (Jan. 9, 1764, pp. 258-9), 200 ac. adj. Edward Mathews, Schoolhouse Branch.
1.1.1.1.2. James Westbrooke, m. (2) Elizabeth Pucket. He was indentured to Dr. Joshua Irby.
1.1.1.1.2.1. Samuel Westbrook, d. Aug. 1, 1761.

1.1. *Richard Harris, m. (1594) Elianor Bennett.
1.1.1. Thomas Harris, m. Judith Blake, 1623, aunt of:

1.Thomas Blake Sr., bapt. 1626.
1.1. Thomas Blake, bapt. Feb. 2, 1649, d. 1709, IOW, m. Alice Champion, dau. of Edward Champion and Elizabeth Atkins, and sister of Phyllis Fort, m. to Elias Forte. (The Will of Thomas Moore, dated Sept. 28, 1696 (B. 2, p. 371), ‘imprimis, I give to Edward Champion Jr. (wife of Thomas Moore’s granddau), my land I bought of Edward Cobb to hold to him and his heirs forever’. Wit. Thomas Giles, Phillip Brantly, John Bell (husband of Ann Bennett). April 10, 1704: Deed of Thomas Blake Jr. of Upper Par., to son William Blake and Mary his wife, 100 ac. in Upper Parish, IOW Co. (Alice Blake signs dower) Wit: Thos. Tooke Jr., John Smith, p. 653.
1.1.1. William Blake,
1.1.1.1. Thomas Blake. Thomas Blake to Joshua Claud, March 8, 1753, 290 ac. adj. on the N. of Cocklin’s Pocoson and sd. Claud. Wit. Thomas Blake, John Person, Thomas Day, and Joshua Harris, son of Thomas Harris, d. 1729/30 (pp. 463-466).
1.1.1.2. Mary Blake, m. William Pope, son of Henry Pope, and br. of Jane Braswell. William Pope, of the Parish of St. Luke … exs. wife, and friend, Simon Harris*. Wit. Rebecca Harris. R. Feb. 12, 1789, p. 294.*
1.1.1.3. Hannah Blake, m. Joshua Claud.

1.1.1.1. Thomas Harris, b. ca. 1625, d. 1672, in Virginia, a business partner of Joseph Bridger Sr. and John Scott Sr., in Bristol. He held 1,000 ac. in Nansemond in 1658, which was “by him deserted”, and granted anew on July 6, 1668, to Joseph Bridger. He m. (1) Eleanor George, cousin of William George. Rowland Searchfield released Col. Joseph Bridger of Virginia from all claims of three-eighths of a cargo of wines etc. shipped on the Success of London (master William Goodland) in 1654, to Virginia, in the presence of William Scott, Thomas Harris, Christopher Pitt, James Bridger. William Reaper; the witnesses, as partners, accounted for the remaining five eighths. (Bristol Record Office, Depositions)
1.1.1.1.1. Thomas Harris, b. ca. 1655, d. 1712. He would have been of full age when he and his half-br., John, bought land from Joseph Bridger (in 1679) that had been that of their father. Consequently, it would be rational to assume he had a first wife before marrying Judith Edwards, after 1701.

1. Edward Browne.
1.1. Edward Browne, m. Elizabeth Sampson, dau. of James Sampson, and Elizabeth Barcroft, dau. of Charles Barcroft, whose estate admin. was George Moore*, his son-in-law. *Granfather of Avis White,who m. John Harris, grandson of Thomas Harris, d. 1688.
1.1.1. John Browne.
1.1.1.1. Elizabeth Browne, m. John Joyner. William Bryant* of North Carolina, to John Joyner of Isle of Wight, for 1 pound 10 shillings and for divers other good causes, 200 acres in Isle of Wight on the south side of Blackwater (swamp), bounded by the mouth of the Bull poquoson (pocoson) branch, said John Joyner, the main branch. the land was patented to Bridgman Joyner on Nov. 16, 1714. Signed William Bryant, Sarah Bryant.
1.1.1.2. Hannah Browne, m. Thomas Harris, d. 1712 (son of Thomas Harris, d. 1672), as his ist wife.

1. Thomas Bryant, d. Nov. 30, 1687, m. Tabitha (dau. of Thomas Wright), and sister of Elizabeth Wright, who m. William Goodwin, who, on August 1694, inventoried the estate of Thomas Joyner, father of Bridgeman Joyner, guardian of an orphan of Thomas Harris, d. 1688.
1.1. John Bryant, m. Elizabeth, dau. of Bridgeman Joyner, and Ann, dau. of John Hardy. “Bridgeman Joyner and wife, Ann Joyner, to his son-in-law John Bryan(t) and my daughter Elizabeth his wife for love and affection, 200 ac. bounded by Maple Branch, being part of a patent for 800 ac. granted said Joyner on Nov. 16, 1714”. Rec. Nov. 26, 1716. (B. 2, p. 39).
1.2. James Bryant, of Bertie Co. Will rec. March 31, 1731: son William, John Dew, Richard Brasswell, James Bryant. Extrs. Wit.: John Daniel.
1.2.1. *Sarah Bryant, m. John Drake, who names father-in-law, James Bryant, in his Will, rec. Bertie Co., May Court, 1729. Wit. John Sutton, and John Dickinson, whose Will, rec. Northampton Co. Nov. Court, 1749, names daus., Mary, Sarah, Rebecca Newsom, and sons, Daniel and John Dickinson. Wit.: Joseph Jordan. (His granddau., Prudence, m. Standly Kittrell, cousin of Rachel Milly Kittrell, wife of John Harris).
1.2.2. *William Bryant, m. Patience Dew.
1.2.2.1. William Bryant, d. Aug. 6, 1789, Johnston Co., m. a dau. of John Stansell Jr., and Sarah (dau. of Edward Smithwick, d. 1719, in Edenton, Chowan Co.), and sister of Hannah, who m. … Jordan.
1.2.2.1.1. Elizabeth Bryant, m. Jonathon Kittrell Jr.
1.2.2.1.1.1. Rachel Milly Kittrel

1.1.1.1.1.1. Thomas Harris, b. ca. 1685; Will dated Dec. 25, 1729, rec. March 23, 1730, mentions: son, Joshua, bequesting him “my plantation and all my land being 400 ac. … unborn child wife now goes with (Thomas) … wife Hannah Harris one half of balance of estate … brother Henry Harris; dau. Mary Harris”. He witnessed the Will of John Scott (R. July 28, 1729); b. in 1682, grandson of the business partner of Thomas Harris, d.1672, and Joseph Bridger. John Scott m. Joan, dau. of James Tooke, son of Thomas Tooke, associated with Thomas Harris, d. 1672. To repeat: “Mr. Charles Barham” Exor, Thomas Harris (d. 1672), and Thomas Tooke overseers, witnessed the Will of William Ridley, who was the br. of Elizabeth Ridley, Charles Barham’s wife. Charles Barham’s sister, Ann, m. Richard Bennett, second-cousin of the said Thomas Harris. Richard Bennett subsequently m. Sarah, second wife of Robert Lancaster Sr.
1.1.1.1.1.1.1. Thomas Harris, b. ca. 1730, d. in 1761.
1.1.1.1.1.1.1.1. Solomon Harris, b. ca. 1758, d. 1837, in Mecklenburg NC. Solomon Harris m. Millie Watkins, dau. of John Watkins and Lydia Gilliam The test results for a descendant (Family Tree DNA) are a near perfect match with Harris Group 4 males. (A group of present-day Harris males who share an almost identical DNA profile).
1.1.1.1.1.1.2. Joshua Harris. His estate was appraised by Joshua Claud, Thomas Day, and Samuel Westbrooke, on June 14, 1770, p. 324. Joshua Harris witnessed the Will of Samuel Westbrooke, rec. Aug. 13, 1761, p. 390.

1.1.2. Edward Harris, settled on the land of his cousin, Governor Richard Bennett, patented in 1642.
1.1.2.1. Edward Harris, d. 1677, 2nd-cousin of Thomas Harris, d. 1672.

1.2. William Harris.
1.2.1. Richard Harris, bapt. Jan. 28, 1595, “son of William”. (“Harries”).
1.2.1.1. Thomas Harris, d. 1688, br. of John Harris, as follows.
1.2.1.1.1. Edward Harris.
1.2.1.1.1.1. Daniel Harris, m. Jane Jordan, sister of George Jordan Sr., whose Will was witnessed by Robert* and Lemander Harris.
1.2.1.1.1.1.1. Mary Harris, m. Nanthaniel C. Nicholson, son of James Nicholson.
1.2.1.1.1.1.1.1. Harris Nicholson.

1.2.1.1.1.1.2. Jordan Harris. Francis Riggan enters Seven hundred & fifthy ac. beginning at Thomas Bell’s corner on little Creek thence along sd. Bell’s line to another corner thence along same line to Gedion Pegrams line thence along the sd. line to George Pegram’s line, thence along the said line to Edward Pegram’s line, thence along sd. line to Robert Harris’s line, thence along sd. line to Thomas Williams’ line, thence along his line to Jordan Harris’s line, thence along sd. line to Jno. Faulcon’s line, thence along sd. line to Edward Hollimon’s line, thence along sd. line to his corner from thence along William Ceelby’s line (the land he bought of Mary Thornton to the beginning of Francis Riggan’s. (Bute Co., March 16, 1778).

1.2.1.1.1.1.3. Jacob Harris, d. 1762, m. Mary Seward. He was left by his father, 190 ac. located “on the flatt swamp on Meherrin River”.
1.2.1.1.1.1.3.1. James Harris, d. 1789.
1.2.1.1.1.1.3.2. Drury Harris, d. 1799, m. Priscilla Womack, on Dec. 12, 1783 in Southampton Co.
1.2.1.1.1.1.3.3. Moses Harris, d. 1786, m. Elizabeth, dau. of Moses Thorpe. Moses Harris enters 150 ac. lying on the waters of great Fishing Creek begin’g at a Red Oak in Thos. Hill’s corner & running sd. line to Davis’s line thence alongsaid line to Green’s branch down sd Branch to Ab. Greens’s line. Down said line to the Creek. (Bute County, May 8, 1778).
1.2.1.1.1.1.3.3.1. James Harris.
1.2.1.1.1.1.3.3.2. John Harris.

1.2.1.1.1.1.4. Drury Harris.
1.2.1.1.1.1.5. Britton Harris, Sheriff of Franklin Co., NC.
1.2.1.1.1.1.6. Stirling Harris.

JORDAN

1. …
1.1. Arthur Jordan, emigrated in 1635; his will of 1678, he states he has lived in Virginia for 43 years. It is suggested that he was the Arthur Jorden who m. Marie Smith, on Nov. 25, 1611, in Kelston, 8 miles fiom Bristol, the epicentre of West Country Quakerism.
1.1.1. George Jordan, d. on Oct. 9, 1678 in Southwark Parish, Surry Co.: “I give & bequeath unto my nephew, Thomas Jordan, & to his heirs for ever; he or they performing the above said sermon; and in case of his decease before this will be proved, then all that I have given to him, I give to my brother, Arthur Jordan, to be equally divided amongst my seven nephews”.
1.1.2. Arthur Jordan, d. 1698.
1.1.2.1. George Jordan, m. Mary Browne. His will was probated in Surry Co. on Aug. 20, 1718; mentioning his sons: George Jordan, Arthur Jordan, Thomas Jordan, James, River, and Charles; and his daus.: Mary Anderson, and Elizabeth Bailey.
1.1.2.1.1. “George Jordan Sr.”, Will proved May 12, 1761, Exrs: wife Sarah Jordan, son George Jordan. Wit: *Robt Harris, Lemander Harris, Mary Harris.

(1. Dr. William Irby, Sr. 1.1. William Irby. 1.1.1. John Irby (of St Andrews Parish, Brunswick Co.*). 1.2. Dr. Edmund Irby, Sr., d. Dec. 11, 1733, in St Martin’s Brandon Parish, Prince George Co.; m. Anne, dau. of Thomas Blunt, of Southwark Parish, d. 1709, and Priscilla, dau. of Col. William Brown, and sister of (1) Mary Browne, who m. George Jordan, having issue: (1) George Jordan, d. May 12, 1761, in Granville Co.; (2) Mary Jordan who m. James Anderson. 1.2.1. John Irby, m. Mary Blunt, b. May 26, 1727 (dau. of Richard Blunt, d. 1747, son of Thomas and Priscilla), and sister of Colonel Richard Blunt*, d. 1774, who m. Jane, “evidently a Nicholson” (Mr. Boddie), her Will (of 1779) mentions her br., William Nicholson, as an exec. 1.2.1.1. Ann Irby, b. Aug. 7, 1757, in Surry Co., m. Lemuel Cocke, Dec. 27, 1773, son of Lemuel Cocke and Jane Browne. They owned a plantation named “Wintico” which bordered the plantation of her cousin Mary Jordan and her husband, James Anderson, called “Arnols”, along the Blackwater River in Prince George Co., next to the Surry border, Jan. 1 1774). Dr. Edmund Irby Sr. m. (2) Elizabeth, dau. of Thomas Douglas, and had issue: William Irby; Edmund Irby Jr.; Charles Irby, and Douglas Irby).

*St Andrews Parish, Brunswick Co.
Dec. 1735 Vestry. Present: Henry Embry, John Wall, Richard Burch, William Maclin, Nicholas Lanier, Batt Peterson Processioners: Henry Cook, Michael Wall, and Joshua Clark – from John Irby’s road to the mouth of Cain branch to Timothy Reves, to Thomas Reves, to Capt. Robert Hix Jr., John Wall, Gent., John Douglas, and John Irby – from Duglases run to fountain Creek down to Orak road to John Irby’s. Rec. July 7, 1743: Nicholas Lanier s account: Noted were sums paid to or receipts from Mr Betty, Walter Campbell, William Embry, Clement Read, Walter Boyd, Mr Edmunds, David Hunter, Col. John Simmons, Roger Tilman, Col. Wall, Mr Walton. Oct. 1743 Vestry: Capt. Wall’s Processioners: Michael Wall, Gent., Henry Cooke, and Joshua Clark, from John Irby s road to the mouth of the Cane Branch thence to Timothy Reeves, thence to Thomas Reeves, thence to Robert Hix, Jr., where he lived.

Dec. 1735 Vestry, present: Henry Embry, John Wall, Richard Burch, William Maclin, Nicholas Lanier, Batt Peterson, Processioners: Henry Cook, Michael Wall and Joshua Clark from John Irby’s road to the mouth of Cain branch to Timothy Reves to Thomas Reves to Capt. Robert Hix, Jr. John Wall, Gent., John Duglass and John Irby from Duglases run to fountain Creek down to Roanoak road to John Irby’s.

Sept. 1, 1736. Whereas upon reading the Petitions of Wm Macklin & Sampson Lanier* in behalf of themselves & many others of the free Holders & Inhabitants of the Parish of St Andrew in the County of Brunswick, It appears to this Board that the Vestry of the said Parish have in Contempt of the Order made the 16 th of April 1735 to which the said Vestry did submit directed two Chappels to be erected in the said Parish greatly to the inconveniency of the Inhabitants. *His dau., Rebecca Lanier, m. Walton Harris, son of Nathan Harris*.

Indenture made the 18th day of September, 1752, between John Irby (and Joseph Carter for 100 pounds, conveying 250 ac. lying on Lick Branch to the Otterdam Swamp, conveyed from Nathaniel Edwards to John Irby. Wit.: Nathaniel Edwards, William Edwards, Edward Rowell, William Reaves, and James Bennett. Indenture was also acknowledged by Jane Irby, wife of John Irby. Presented in Court on Oct. 24, 1752., B. 5, p. 269).

NICHOLSON

1. …
1.1. James Nicholson, m. Eliz. Gray. He lived on land adj. to Gilbert Gray, on the 156 ac. at the mouth of Cattail Branch that his son James Nicholson and his widow Elizabeth, and Richard Andrews (her 2nd husband), deeded in 1740 to Robert Gray. Witnessed by Gilbert Gray and Benjamin Nicholson. James Nicholson left his property to his widow, Elizabeth, and after her death to his two sons. Elizabeth m. (2) Richard Andrews, who d. in 1750. The following year she moved from Surry Co. to Edgecombe Co. with her sons, James & Benjamin. Elizabeth Andrews, Jan. Ct., 1768. Daus: Elizabeth, Mary, and Sarah, all wearing clothes to be equally divided between 3 daus., except one blue and white striped cotton gown, and one white cotton pettycoat bordered with calico which I give to Gr. dau: Sarah Nicholson. Son and Exr: Benjamin NIcholson, remainder of my estate. A deed between Richard Andrews and James Nicholson, to Robert Gray (in 1740) was witnessed by John Harris, Gilbert Gray, and Benjamin Nicholson. John Harris was likely to have been the son of Robert Harris (son of Thomas, d. 1688), and br. of Robert Harris Jr., as herein accounted for.
1.1.1. Elizabeth Nicholson, m. John C. Egerton.
1.1.1.1. Rachel Egerton, m. Charles Harris.
1.1.2. Benjamin Nicholson. Account of sales of estate of Daniel Harris, dec’d., Jane (Jordan) Harris, Admrx., dated May 28, 1765, mentions Benjamin Nicholson. Benjamin Nicholson and James Nicholson, deed dated Sept. 4, 1740, from John Egerton to James Nicholson (of Surry Co.), for 370 ac. on S. side of Roanoke River, on Stone House Creek.
1.1.2.1. James Nicholson, witnessed a 1765 deed from Samuel Nicholson to Benjamin Egerton and James Egerton. Jas. Nicholson do enter 640 ac. lying in Bute County on the waters of Stone House Creek and Hubb Quarters Creek on both sides of Eaton Road and Halifax Road beg’n. Edw. Hollomond’s line, thence by Kellie’s line, thence by Wm. Durhams’s line, thence by Jos. Shearings line thence by Dan. Sledge’s line, thence by sd. Nicholson’s line thence by Newitt Harris’s line &c including the survey to the begining and including one improvement made by said Nicolson. (Bue Co. ,March 16, 1778).
1.1.2.2. Henry Nicholson.
1.1.2.3. Mary Nicholson, m. Edmund Harris, son of Robert Harris, son of Robert Harris, Will probated on April 28, 1740.
1.1.2.3.1. Nicholson Harris.
1.1.3. James Nicholson, had land adj. Robert Harris, son of Robert Harris, Will probated on April 28, 1740.
1.3.1.1. James Nicholson, m. Ann, dau. of James Davis and Elizabeth, dau. of Thomas Warren.
1.3.1.1.1. Nathaniel Nicholson, m. Mary Harris, dau. of Daniel Harris and Jane Jordan.
1.3.1.1.1.1. Brittain Nicholson, m. Mary, dau. of Michael Harris, son of Robert Harris, d. 1740.
1.3.1.1.1.1.1. Harris Ethelred Nicholson.
1.2. Ann Nicholson, m. *Colonel Richard Blunt. “There is in Surry a deed, dated 1724, from Richard Blunt, of Surry, to his sister, Ann, wife of Edmund Irby, of Prince George, conveying
510 acr. on Blackwater (where said Richard lives), which was patented by Thomas Blunt in 1701. The Will of Richard Blunt was proved in Surry, on June 16, 1747: Legatees – son, Richard, the land I live on, 800 ac., and also a new survey adjoining … to Mr. Nicholas Edmunds, all of testator’s lands on the south side of the Great Creek, providing he gives testator’s son, John, the like quantity adjoining testator’s lands on the north side; sons, John and Benjamin, daughter, Mary Irby, daughters, Elizabeth and Lucy Blunt, John Irby, cousin, William Blunt, wife, Ann”. (‘Godwin Family’).
1.3. William Nicholson.

1.2.1.1.1.2. West Harris.
1.2.1.1.1.2.1. Isham Harris.
1.2.1.1.1.2.2. Martha Harris, m. Buckner Kimball.
1.2.1.1.1.2.3. Turner Harris, d. Feb. 25, 1819, Montgomery, NC.

1.2.1.1.1.3. *Nathaniel Harris (Nathan). Nath’l Harris enters 360 ac. South side little Fishing Creek, adj. Beef Creek and the old House Branch adj. Jordan Harris’s line, Jno. Lancasters’s, Sterling Harris’s, and his own. (Bute Co., Dec. 3, 1778). Jno. Lancaster enters 640 ac. on the waters of Bobbitt’ss Branch and Beef Creek, begining at Nath’l Harris’s Corner, thence up Beef Creek to Mathew Harris’s line (Bute County, May 20, 1778).

1.2.1.1.1.4. James Harris, m. Cherry Joyner. James Hills enters 100 ac. including all that lays between the lines of James Egerton, Wilmot Egerton, Jno. Egerton and Jas. Harris. (Bute Co., May 12, 1778).
1.2.1.1.1.4.1. Henry Harris.
1.2.1.1.1.4.2. Claiborne Harris.

1.2.1.1.2. Robert Harris, d. 1740.
1.2.1.1.2.1. Robert Harris, received with his br., John, a patent from their father of 150 ac. S. of the main Blackwater Swamp, on Barbeque Swamp, IOW. He served in a Granville Co. militia commanded by his first-cousin, Captain Daniel Harris, in 1754 (son of *Edward Harris and Mary Turner). Was he the Robert Harris*, d. 1786, husband of Lemander …? Robert Harris, of Granville Co., NC., received a grant of 488 ac. on Little Fishing Creek on April 27, 1753; and a grant of 310 ac. on Stonehouse Creek, adjacent to Nicholson land, on March 11, 1760. Robert Harris lived adj. to Daniel Pegram, whose Will was recorded in Nov. 1777: ‘Son Edward Pegram to have land on SS Rico Road, adjoining Robert Harris, James Nicholson, Francis Riggin, and George Pegram. Son Gedion Pegram to have land where I now live’.

1.2.1.1.2.1.1. Edmund Harris, m. Mary Nicholson, niece of Elizabeth Nicholson, and sister of James Nicholson; being children of Benjamin Nicholson. Account of sales of estate of *Daniel Harris (first-cousin of *Robert Harris), Jane (Jordan) Harris, Admrx., dated May 28, 1765, mentions Benjamin Nicholson.
1.2.1.1.2.1.1.1. Irby Harris.
1.2.1.1.2.1.1.2. Henry Harris*

1.2.1.1.2.1.2. Newitt Harris, m. Frances Williams. Silvanus Merritt enters three hundred ac. lying on the head of Stone House Creek, begining at Edward Hollimons’s corner thence along his line to another corner, thence runing along Lewis Patterson’s line to Thomas Walker’s line, then along sd. line to a corner, thence along Newitt Harris’ line to the begining. (Bute Co., March 16, 1778). Silvanus Merritt was probably related to Joseph and *James Merritt. Joseph Merritt enters 450 ac. of land on the waters of Martin’s Creek & Linche’s Creek joining the lines of Thos. Garrat, Joseph Roger’s. James Merritt enters 450 ac on the waters of Linche’s Creek joining Hawkin’s line, Edward’d line and the County line. (Bute Co., March 17, 1778).
James Merritt of Warren Co. sold 50 ac. on waters of Lick Branch, mention of Sarah Merritt’s line, wit: Joseph Mangham, James Harrison. Lewis Patterson m. Lucy, dau. of Over Jordan, son of River Jordan Sr., son of Arthur Jordan, br. of George Jordan, d. on Oct. 9, 1678, aforementioned). Jno. Riggan seven hundred ac. lying on the East side of little Creek the waters of Hub Quarter, begining at a birch in Jas. Merrick’s line, thence up the Creek to Wm. Durham’s line thence along his line to the S. corner thence along a line of mark’d trees to my corner thence along a line to Jos. Shearing line thence along the sd. line to a corner thence along a line of mark’d trees to Mrs. Johnson’s line, thence along her lilne to Thos. Reed’s line thence along the sd. line to Jas. Myrick’s, & thence along the said line to the begining. (Bute Co., March 16, 1778)

1.2.1.1.2.1.2.1. Nancy Harris, m. Harris (Henry) Pegram, on March 18, 1799.
1.2.1.1.2.1.2.2. Wiley Harris, m. Celey Harris, Dec. 24, 1792; Silvanus Merritt, bm.
1.2.1.1.2.1.3. Burwell Harris.
1.2.1.1.2.1.4. Ann Harris, m. Francis Riggan.
1.2.1.1.2.1.4.1. Lucretia Riggan, m. *Henry Harris, Dec. 12, 1819.

1.2.1.1.2.2. John Harris, m. Avis, dau. of Thomas White, and grandau. of George Moore, of Bristol.
1.2.1.1.2.2.1. Harmon Harris, appraised the estate of James Lancaster, with John Williamson, rec. Oct. 16, 1797, p. 15.
1.2.1.1.2.2.2. Joel Harris*, m. Martha Barham, in Southampton Co.

1.2.1.1.2.3. *Joseph Harris*. Joseph Harris enters 250 ac. on the waters of Fishing Creek joining the lines of Davis and the County line upon the East Side of Green’s branch. Bute County, June 15, 1778. He m. Jane, dau. of John Egerton and Elizabeth, dau. of James Nicholson.
1.2.1.1.2.3.1. Martha Harris, d. 1797, m. Moses Lancaster, son of Lawrence Lancaster.
1.2.1.1.2.3.2. Elizabeth Harris, m. (Oct. 30, 1787), n.b. Hardeman Duke, son of William Duke, son of John Duke and Lucy House, as given heretofore.
1.2.1.1.2.3.3. John Early Harris, m. Sally Bobbitt. (The ‘Bobbett’ family almost certainly descended from John Bobbett, of Curry Mallet, 15 miles E. of Wiveliscombe.
1.2.1.1.2.3.3.1. Bedford Harris, m. Priscilla Lancaster, Dec. 5, 1811; Joel Harris, b.m.

1.2.1.1.2.4. Charles Harris, d. Nov. 4, 1786, m. Rachel*, dau. of John C. Egerton and Elizabeth Nicholson. Rachel Egerton, Warren Co., W.B. 2 p. 49, rec. Feb 1823: EX: sons-in-law John Bobbitt and John Mealer. W: Benjamin Hill, and C. H. Bobbitt. Rachel Egerton was the sister of Wilmot Egerton, who m. Priscilla Regan (W.B. 2, p. 37). Her Will, rec. Feb 1830: EX: William Watson Regan, and brother William P. Regan, W.: Michael Regan, and William Carter.
1.2.1.1.2.4.1. Bedford Harris, m. Priscilla Lancaster, Dec. 5, 1811, in Warren Co., *Joel Harris, bm.
1.2.1.1.2.4.2. Wilmot Harris (b. Nov. 13, 1769), m. Katherine Morris, Jan. 1, 1799; Jeremiah Stephenson*, bm.
1.2.1.1.2.4.3. Patience Harris, m. John Bobbitt ,on Jan. 16, 1789, in Warren Co.
1.2.1.1.2.4.4. Nancy Harris, m. John Egerton (B.1, p. 21), son of James Egerton, per Will dated Oct. 28, 1785, and br. of Mary Williams.
1.2.1.1.2.4.5. Priscilla Harris, m. Leonard Kimball (Warren Co., W.B. 2, p. 64), son of Benjamin Kimball Jr., per Will dated Aug. 25, 1794.

1.2.1.1.2.5. Mathew Harris. Wm. Person enters 640 ac. on waters of Bobbitt Branch, Beef Creek, adjoining his own lines Jno. Lancaster’s, Mathew Harris’s and others runing for compliment. (Bute County, March 16, 1778).
1.2.1.1.2.5.1. Nelson Harris, m. Nancy, dau. of Drury Long, and Sarah, dau. of Joseph Green, d. July 1775, in Bute Co., and Ann (dau. of Joseph Turner), and sister of (1) Mary Turner, who m. West Harris; (2) Elizabeth Turner, who m. Arthur Jordan, son of George Jordan (whose Will was witnessed by *Robert and Lemander Harris), the brother of Jane Jordan, wife of Daniel Harris, son of Edward Harris and Mary Turner, sister of Joseph Turner, aforesaid.
1.2.1.1.2.5.2. James Harris.

HARRIS cont.

1.2.1.2. John Harris, bapt. Feb. 18, 1624, “son of Richard”.
1.2.1.2.1. Elizabeth Harris, m. Samuel Lancaster, the br. of (1) Robert Lancaster, father of William Lancaster, who m. Mary Moreland, having issue: Lawrence Lancaster.

Lancasters of Bruton, Somerset:

1. Richard Lancaster, Margarett Barber, June 22, 1573.
1.1. John Langcaster, m. Susan Mogg, Oct. 30, 1609.
1.1.1. Robert Langcaster, m. Susannah Penny, Oct. 1, 1632; he bur. Oct. 3, 1674, dau. of John Penny, bapt. Jan. 27, 1583/4, who m. Katherine Shephard, Jan. 23, 1608/9; she was bapt. March 21, 1592/3, dau. of Nicholas Shephard and Katherin Colborne, who m. Oct. 5, 1590. Sussanah was the aunt of “Penny, James, s. John, of Bruton, Somerset, sacerd. Christ Church, matric. 14 July, 1665, aged 15; B.A. 1669, M.A. 1672, chaplain to the Earl of Warrington, vicar of Great Budworth, Cheshire, 1682, until his death in 1694”. (Foster’s Index Eccl.).
1.1.1.1. Robert Lankester, bapt. Jan. 26, 1634, m. (1) (ca. 1660), Lettis …, probably a sister of Thomas White, whose Will was proved Sept. 4, 1694 (“Mr. Robert Lancaster to have the care of my son Thomas and daughter Mary and their estate”). (2) Sarah widow of her 2nd husband, Richard Bennett Sr., second-cousin of Thomas Harris, d. 1672. Thomas White’s widow m. (2) Thomas Edwards. “A commission of administration is granted William Edwards (as greatest creditor) of the estate of Thomas White, deceased (with the Will annexed), the said Will being proved in Court by the oath of Mr. John Thompson and ordered to further proved at the next court … the said Edwards giving security according to law. Robert Lancaster,entering himself in Court security for William Edwards due performance of his administration on the estate of Thomas White with annexed is accepted and ordered that they give bond accordingly”.

Although the origins of Thomas White cannot be known, his family would certainly have been of the same social class as the Lancasters and Bennetts, and may have been of a family from the same area, and known to them, a social norm concerning marriages of this time; thus, a reasonable suggestion is as follows:

1. John Sydenham. Joan Arundel
1.1. Elizabeth Sydenham John Wyndham
1.2. John Sydenham. In 1464 , we find the Dean and Chapter granting out the estate on three lives to John Sydenham the younger , of Wiveliscombe , a member of the ancient Somerset family of that name

1. Humphrey Sydenham.”Inquisition post mortem of Humphrey Sydenham concerning the manors of Bathealton held of Dunster, Poleshill, Houndsmoor and Dulverton. He d. March 26, 1625 and his son and heir John was 35″. (Somerset Record Office, DD\L/P7/24).
1.1. John Sydenham (b. 1590), eldest son and heir, d. without male children, m. Margery, dau. of Sir Anthony Paulett (1562–1600), of Hinton St George, Somerset; sister of (1) John Paulet, 1st Baron Paulet (1585–1649); (2) Captain Thomas Paulet, who, on Jan. 15, 1637, received a patent for some 2,000 ac. on Westover Plantation, he beqeathed to his brother, Sir John Pawlett, who sold it in 1665 to Theodrick Bland, husband of Ann Bennett, as given, and close kinsman of the Harris family of Wiveliscombe and Virginia.
1.2. Rev. Humphry Sydenham, 1591–1650, “Royalist Divine” known as “Silver-Tongue Sydenham”, Rector of Puckington and Oldcombe, Somerset; m. Mary Cox, dau. of William Cox of Crookhern, Somerset. Thomas White*, vicar of Monksilver, held that office of the patronage of Rev. Humphry Sydenham, invariably, from some familial connection. Thomas White, son of the vicar, bapt. Feb. 25, 1635/6, may have been the br.-in-law of Robert Lancaster.
1.1.2.1. Roger Sydenham, m. Joan, relict of John Catford Sr. (d. 1634), father of Dorothey Catford:

WHITE

1. *Thomas White, cleric, m. (1) Dorothey Catford, Nov. 24, 1634. The Catfords were a substantial family of yeomans, tenants of the Sidenhams: Catford v Sidenham. Plaintiffs: John Catford. Defendants: John Sidenham. Subject: manor of Dulverton, Somerset. 1617-1621. (C 3/303/3). Monksilver is ca. 12 miles N.E. of Dulverton, and 5 miles due N. of Wiveliscombe, both being connected by the then “old road”. Monksilver manor was leased, from 1567 until 1716 to the Sydenhams. (B.L. Harl. MS. 79, f. 23; St. George’s Chapel, Windsor, MSS. XV. 27. 34, 37; XV. 50. 6). The Sydenham family presented (between 1572 and 1711), the advowson of the church. (S.R.S. xiii. 56; lx, p. 83; Som. Incumbents, ed. Weaver, 402–3; St. George’s Chapel, Windsor, MS. XV. 50. 15). “Thomas White, Clerk of Monksilver”; his Will was probated on May 16, 1648, naming two sons, John and Thomas, who were to receive £20 when reaching the age of 21.
1.1. Thomas White, bapt. Feb. 25, 1635/6, d. 1694, in Virginia, it is suggested.
1.1.1. Thomas White, b. ca. 1665, m. a dau. of George Moore, of Bristol.
1.1.1.1. Avis White, b. ca. 1690, m. John Harris, grandson of Thomas Harris, d. 1688. The Harris and White families were probably those who lived within walking distance (betw. Wiveliscombe and Monksilver), in Somerset.
1.1.1.2. Thomas White; his land on the Blackwater bounded those of William Lancaster, grandson of Robert Lancaster Sr., and inheritor of his lands.
1.2. “Lettis” White, m. Robert Lancaster Sr., who m. (2) Sarah widow of her 2nd husband, Richard Bennett Sr., second-cousin of Thomas Harris, d. 1672.

1.1.1.1.1. Samuel Lancaster, b. ca. 1663, m. Elizabeth Harris.
1.1.1.1.1. 1. Catherine Lancaster, m. Joseph Crocker; Will R. Feb. 5, 1761, appraised by Thomas Holleman.
1.1.1.1.1.1.1. Jesse Crocker, witnessed the Will of his uncle, John Holloman.
1.1.1.1.1. 2. Martha Lancaster, m. John Holloman, son of Christopher Holliman Jr. Sept. 25, 1739: “From Christopher Holliman of Bartee precinct, NC, and John Holliman of Newport parish in IOW, to Arthur Crocker of same, 300 ac. on the E. side the main Swamp, bounded by the mouth of the Fishing Branch, the head of the Miery Branch”, p. 413.

1.1.1.1.2. Robert Lancaster, Jr.
1.1.1.1.2.1. William Lancaster, m. Mary Moreland. He was willed his grandfather’s plantation on Blackwater Swamp. His wife, Mary, was given the administration of his estate on Jan. 21, 1740. The plantation was bounded by Blackwater Swamp, and lands of Thomas White (son of Thomas, d. 1694), and John Champion. (D.B. 3, p. 10).
1.1.1.1.2.1.1. Lawrence Lancaster Sr., m. Mary, d. June 16, 1762, dau. of of Roger Williams. Roger Williams: To son, Roger*, all my Land he now lives on, and he pay his brother, George Williams, 500 lbs. of tobacco. March 5, 1708, p. 411. *Roger Williams, Will names son, Thomas, Mary, wife of Law. Lancaster; dau. Jane Williams. Rec. March 20, 1744; wit. William Jordan, p. 497. Thomas Williams witnessed the Will of Thomas Joyner, rec. April 28, 1740, whose legatee was dau., Cherry Harris*.

JOYNER/BOYKIN

1. Thomas Joyner, atty of Edward Bennett.
1.1. Bridgeman Joyner, guardian of William Harris, br. of Robert Harris, d. 1740. Bridgeman Joyner m. a dau. of John Hardy (likely to be closely related to George Hardy), and Alice, dau. of Thomas Bennett, aforesaid.
1.2. Thomas Joyner.
1.2.1. Thomas Joyner, Will probated April 28, 1740, IOW, m. (2) Patience …
1.2.1.1. Cherry Joyner, m. (1) James Harris, son of Edward Harris, d. March 25, 1734, in IOW, son of Thomas Harris, d. 1688, and br. of Robert Harris, d. 1740. (2) John Boykin.

1. Edward Boykin, m. Ann Gwaltney.
1.1. John Boykin.
1.1.1. Ann Boykin, m. Robert Harris, d. 1740, son of Thomas Harris, d. 1688. Ann Boykin’s cousin m. her husband’s nephew.
1.2. William Boykin, d. June 19, 1731, m. (1) … Burwell.
1.2.1. John Boykin, m. *Cherry Joyner.

Lawrence Lancaster sold to Len. Henley Bullock 330 ac. on Fishing Creek, Elbe’s Branch, “where I now live adj. West Harris”. Wit: Samuel Lancaster, Britton Harris, and John Lancaster. Proved by Britton Harris. The last will and testament of Lawrence Lancaster, deceased was proved in open Court by the oath of James Harris, Morris Harris, and Lawrence Lancaster Jr.; William Lancaster and John Lancaster, execs. Rec. March 14, 1760. Charles Harris, warrant of 450 ac. in Granville Co. (Parish of St. John, on the branches of Aaron’s Creek), adj. Jones’s Corner and Wade’s line: Witnesses: William Hurst, Lawrence Lancaster. Aug. 28, 1792, p. 230. Bute, August Court, 1800: ‘Account in Estate of Laurence Lancaster deceased by William, Laurence & John Lancaster executors. Paid: for coffin and sickness John Hall (fee), B. Moss (taxes & sale), Samuel Williford, John Lancaster, Claiborne Harris, Len, Kimball, Ben Kimball, R. Bobbitt, Geo. Pegram, H. Harris (son of James Harris), Jesse Bell, Wm. Johnson and executors of Harton. Recorded from sale, etc. & balance to be divided among twelve legatees’.

1.1.1.1.2.1.1.2. Lucy Williford
1.1.1.1.2.1.1.3. Lawrence Lancaster Jr. Laurance Lancaster enters for 640 ac. begining on Mathew Harris’s line thence runing to Chas. Harris’s line and Jos. Harris’s line and Jno. Lancaster’s and Wm. Person’s. (Bute Co., March 17, 1778).
1.1.1.1.2.1.1.4. William Lancaster, d. Sept. 16, 1826, Louisburg, Franklin Co., m. Prudence Bennett, Jan. 9, 1799, *Jeremiah Stephenson, bm.
1.1.1.1.2.1.1.4.1. *John Lancaster, b. ca. 1785, m. Polly Bennett, as above.
1.1.1.1.2.1.1.4.2. Priscilla Lancaster, m. Bedford Harris, Dec. 5, 1811; Joel Harris, bm.
1.1.1.1.2.1.1.5. Samuel Lancaster.
1.1.1.1.2.1.1.6. Martha Lancaster
1.1.1.1.2.1.1.7. Moses Lancaster, m. Martha, dau. of *Joseph Harris.
1.1.1.1.2.1.1.8. John Lancaster*.

Supplementary:

Malcolm Hart Harris ( “Three William Harrises in Hanover County,” in The Virginia Genealogist xxii, pp. 187-193), attempted to disambiguate between three men called William Harris who lived in Hanover Co. in the early 17th century. Evidently one was a son of Major William Harris; another of a seperate family of Harris (with connections to the family of Major William Harris, as B.T. Shannon summarises: “The confusion between two distinct lines of Harris arose from the widow of Major William Harris marrying George Alvis, who subsequently, had a son, David Alvis, who married Elizabeth Stanley, da. either of John Stanley or his brother Thomas Stanley. Two seperate groups of Harris held nearby lands; one on the upper Pamunkey River, the other to the east of along Cedar Creek, Taylor’s Branch, and Wolf Swamp”. I suggest that the third William* was the son of Thomas Harris, d. 1688, in Surry Co., and brother of George Harris, Edward Harris, Robert Harris, and John Harris. Subsequent associations seem to suggest this.

1. Thomas Harris, d. 1688.
1.1. William Harris, b. ca. 1678.
1.1.1. Richard Harris, b. ca. 1705. m. Margaret Kimbrough, at least by 1739, when Margaret’s brother, Marmaduke, made them a gift, not necessarily a marriage one; witnessed by Robert Harris*
1.1.1.1. Richard Harris, m. Priscilla Holmes, by 1753. Was he a son of Richard and Margaret, b. ca. 1730? Deed Book H. (266, 267), Richard Harris of Granville Co, NC to John Harris son of the abovesaid Richard Harris, Nov. 23, 1766: ‘for & in consideration of the natural love & affection which he beareth unto his said son John Harris, all that seat tract or parcel of land lying in the county foresaid; Beginning at a Hickory in Jonathan White’s line, thence South 20 degrees East 178 pole to a corner White Oak, thence east 140 pole to a corner White Oak, thence North 20 degrees West 178 pole to a corner Spanish Oak, thence W. 140 pole to the first station, containing in the whole 144 ac. Richard Harris. Wit: Daniel Standard, John Kittrell. Granville Co., Feb. Court, 1767.
1.1.1.1.1. John Harris, b. ca. 1755, m. Rachel Milly Kittrell.
1.2. George Harris, d. 1720. His Will named sons, Robert (perhaps named for Robert, br. of George), Joseph, and William; wife Martha. A witness was John Bowen Sr., probable br.-in-law of George Harris.
1.2.1. William Harris. Giles Driver, Sr., headright of Thomas Harris, d. 1672, m. (1) Elizabeth (d. June 1, 1671), dau. of Richard Reynolds and Elizabeth, dau. of Richard Sharpe and Ann, who was almost certainly the sister of Thomas Harris, d. 1672, per Mr. Brayton. (2) Olive, dau. of John Hardy. 1.1. Giles Driver , m. (1) Mary, dau. of George Rivers, stepson of Christopher Reynolds (an employee of Edward Bennett, great-uncle of Thomas Harris, d. 1672). 1.1.1. William Driver, m. Martha, dau. of John Bowen. 1.1.1.1. … Driver, m. (her second cousin?), William Harris, as ist wife
1.2.2. Robert Harris, m. Lemander … ? As an alternative to as suggested heretofore.

by m stanhope, copyright B.T, Shannon, 2022