Walter FitzGilbert de Hamilton

La charte dont on va lire un extrait indiquera les rapports qui existaient entre différents membres de la famille des Crespins dont parle Robert de Torigni.

‘Ego Goscelinus Crispinus … confirmavi Deo et sancte Marie Becci … omnes donationes quas antecessores mei et homines eorum eis fecerunt… scilicet ex dono primi Willelmi Crispini, eclesias de Blangeio…. ecclesiam de Livarot … in Strapigneio decimam denariorum burgi … Ex dono Eve*, uxoris ejusdem Willelmi … Ex dono Willelmi Crispini secundi, fllii dicti Willelmi et Eve in Burnevilla medietatem ecclesie et decime et patronatus…. Ex dono Willelmo Crispini tertii, fllii dicti Willelmi et Agnetis … Hec omnia que scripta sunt ego Goscelinus Crispinus, Beccum venions, cum Willelmo filio meo adhuc puero, diclis monachis in liberam et perpetuam elemosinam concessi, assensu et volunlate dicti Willelmi fllii mei … anno ab incarnations’. Domini MCLV. (Bibl. nat. ms. latin 13905, fol. 19 V).

1. Gilbert Crispin.
1.1. Gilbert Crispin.
1.2. William Crispin, m. Eve de Montfort, ‘who suited him well on account of her origin and manners. Eve de Montfort bore him Gilbert, abbot of Westminster, William Crispin II., and many others’. (Milo Crispin). She was the sister of Norman frontier lord Simon de Montfort. (W. Frolich, trsl., The Letters of Anselme of Canterbury, 1990-1994, nos. 22, 98, 118, and 147). They were the children of Amauri 1 de Montfort and Bertrade de Gometz. Amauri 1 de Montfort was the possible son of William de Hainault. (Marjorie Chibnall, ed. & trans., The Ecclesiastical History of Orderic Vitalis, vol. iv., 1969-80). Eve de Montfort’s niece, Bertrade de Montfort, daughter of Simon de Montfort and Agnes d’Evreux, William Crispin’s second cousin, married Fulke d’Anjou IV., Count of Anjou, they beingthe great-granparents of King Henry II of England. (Vernon M. Norr, compiler, Some Early English Pedigrees, 1958-1968).
1.2.1. William Crispin was an Anglo-Norman lord who held land in Wetherby, Wheldrake, Coxwold, and Goodmanham in Yorkshire, and in Ancroft in Northumberland, as mesne-tenant of William de Percy.  He also held other land in Yorkshire: in Arnodestorp, Burnby, Clifton, Dunnington, Easthorpe in Londesborough, Elvington, Fyling, Grimston in Dunnington, Hayton, Hinderwell, Ianulfestrop, Kirkleatham, Kipling, Marshe-by-the-Sea, Nafferton, Pockthorpe, Scoreby, Sutton upon Derwent, and Warter. (Domesday Book, folio 322v).  He also held land in Normandy: ‘William Crispin the younger gave the tithe of the mill and of his desmene which he had in Le Mesnil-Hubert, the church and tithe of Druicort, what Robert Malcovernant held of him, one house in Livarot with all its customs, half of the church and tithe of Bournainville’ (David Bates, ed., Regum Anglo-Normannorum, the Acta of William I, 1066-1087, 1998). According to Mathieu – Reserches Sur Les Premiers Comtes De Dammartin, 19, 60, 1996. – a probable wife of William Crispin 11. was Agnes Mauvoisin, who was the daughter of Eustachia Dammartin, the daughter of Manasser, Count of Dammartin, and Constance Capetien, daughter of Robert II., King of France. She married Raoul Mauvoisin, Seigneur of Rosny, and Viscount of Mantes. He was a part of the Hastings invasion force, before becoming a monk at Gassicourt, dying in 1074. An act of Agnes, daughter of Eustachia, daughter of Count Manasser, granted tithes at Rosny ‘for the souls of her mother and husband, William.’ The association of Rosny and the name Manasser strongly suggests a connection with the Mauvoisins of Rosny. The Mauvoisins were the most powerful family in the marches of Francia, between Vernon and Mantes.
1.2.1.1. ‘Willelmo Crispini tertii’.

1. Richard, ‘the Great Prince’.
1.1. Count Godfrey, born circa 953, to a concubine.
1.1. Gilbert de Brionne.
1.1.1. Richard FitzGilbert
1.1.2. Gilbert Crispin, held Tillieres as a vassal of Gilbert de Brionne.
1.1.2.1. Gilbert crispin, held Damville as a vassal of Richard FitzGilbert.
1.1.2.1.1. Gilbert Crispin III., m. Hersende de Brezolles, kinswoman of Albert Ribaut, and became enfeoffed in Armentières-sur-Avre.
1.1.2.1.1. Robert de d’Armentières, held Whatton of Gilbert de Gand. Of approximately 9,500 estates listed in Domesday, 760 of them had tenants in chief from the ‘southern Low Countries’ – ony two Flemish tenants-in-chief were from northern, ‘Flemish’ Flanders: the Abbey of St. Peters in Ghent, and Gilbert de Ghent, of the family of the advocates of St. Peter’s'(Eljas Oksanen, Flanders and the Anglo-Norman World, pp. 186-8, 2012). Armentières is a town in the southern Low Countries. There is no geographical, tenurial, or ecclesiatical record of any connection between the Gand family and this Armentières. If the Crispins descended from Richard, ‘the Great Prince’, and Robert de d’Armentières was of the Crispin family of Armentières-sur-Avre, then his relationship to Gilbert de Gand was one of kinship, the same basis on which the ducal family entrusted the Crispins with the defence of the Norman borders. The military prowess of the Crispins was well esteemed: ‘And like the Fabii, or the Anicii or Manlii, carried the tokens of fame [insignia] among the Romans, so the Crispins knew even greater fame among the Normans and the French’ (Milo Crispin).

1.1.2.2.1. William Crispin, m. Agnes Mauvoisin.
1.2. Richard II.
1.2.1. Eleanor, m. Baldwin IV, Count of Flanders, whose first wife Otgiva was a sister of Giselle, who was probably the mother of Gilbert de Gand.

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Gilbert Crispin I came from Livarot or Blangy, near Lisieux, where the Crispins had
large tracts of land. Livarot was a ducal domain, and was fortified from the time when the Mont-Gomeri built their castle.

Its main fiefs were Pont-Aleri, Cheffreville (Chevreville), near Notre Dame-de-Courson, within which was Bellau, held by the Paynels in the 12th century; Les Loges, Lisores (Lizours), Moutiers-Hubert (from whence the Paynels), and Tonancourt.

The Markham family were originally of the family of de Lizours. Roger de Lizours was a mesne-tenant of the great Norman magnate Roger de Busli, and was probably in some way related to him, witnessing many of his charters, and holding land of him in East Markham.

Roger was probably a member of the family of Chevreville, which held land in in Neufchatel-en-Bray, and perhaps a son of ‘Turold de Quievreville’, who signed a charter of Sanct. Trin., circa 1040-1060, as ‘Turoldi de Drincourt’; Drincourt being 3 miles from Busli.

Roger’s son was Fulc de Lizours, 1.e. Fulke de Chevercourt, ‘man of Roger de Busli’.

Roger de Busli founded the Priory of Blithe in 1088, witnesses being: Turoldus de Cheverchort, Fulk de Lisoriis,Thoraldus frater ejus, and Walter de Drincourt.

Roger de Busli took his surname from Bully, near Neufchatel-en-Bray
(Thor. Soc. v. 44-6 p. 15, 1941). His sister Beatrix, married Robert, Earl of Eu.

A charter of 1110 states that Fulc ‘gave to the monastery of St. Mary of Blithe and the monks there a toft’.

He assumed the name of his place of residence, calling himself Fulc de Marcham.

Markam is near Tuxford.

His son was Alexander de Marcham, Castellan of Nottingham Castle, whose son, William Markham,inherited the estates of his father, and married the heiress Cecilia de Lexington, one of six children of Richard de Lexington,
and Matilda de Cauz.

Their son, Robert Markham, married Sarah de Snitterton, heiress of Jordan de Snitterton, in the county of Derby. Their daughter, Bertha Markham, married William de Longvilliers, 1250-1281, Lord of Gargrave, date as inquis.
post mortem.

The Longvilliers acquired a third part of Tuxford by this marriage with Bertha Markham, who had inherited it from her grandmother. William de Longvilliers and Bertha Markham had issue, among which were: Ellota de Longvilliers, who married Richard de Stanhope (Crispin/Colville).

There followed many marriages between the Stanhopes and Markhams.

Mr. Stapleton, Mag. Rot. – ‘In 1195, among those newly indebted we may notice Hugh de Montfort in 70 li. for his pledge as mainpernor for the Constable, and in 20 li. of the issue of Livarot, and in 66 li. 5s. of the issue of Blangy, and in one hauberk and three loriculc e due as a render from the inhabitants of Blangy, and William de Mara
in 17 li. 3s. of the residue of the Tallage of 12d. set in the fief of Montfort’.

Gilbert Crispin 1. was given (under the vassalage of the comtes de Brionne, n.b.) the border fortress of Tillieres. In addition he was given the fortress of Damville, which the Crispins held under Richard FitzGilbert, son of Gilbert de Brionne,  son of Godfrey, illigitimate son of  Duke Richard, “the Great Prince”.

These were extremely important commissions, on which the safety of the Norman regime depended. It was invariably the custom that such duties were given to those somehow related to the ducal family.

The most likely explanation would be for Richard FitzGilbert and Gilbert Crispin 1 to be half-brothers; Gilbert being an illigitimate son.

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We can know much of the Hayne family of Devon and Virginia, at the same time as knowing little of importance. That is, although it is possible to chart ‘who begat who’, the substance of their life – their everyday actions, motivations, and hopes – remain largely hidden. It is possible to construct aspects of their life from the works of social historians, and gain insight into the hardships faced by Devonshire seafaring families in the 15th and 16th centuries. By and large, many of those briefly mentioned hereinafter were of a landed class that invested their profits in shipbuilding and seafaring merchant trade, largely out of Plymouth, which greatly expanded with the colonisation of Virginia.

The brief account that follows does not describe the complexity of intermarriages that occurred between members of this kinship group, between that of Yeo and Harris, and Hamlyn and Harris, etc., or their shared tenurial connections of centuries standing. An expanded account would give more insight into the ” family collectives” that colonised virginia, yet such a truth runs counter to the Hollywood notion of colonisation through individual effort, and most would rather receive a version of “popcorn history” at the cinema.

I have included a brief footnote of the ancestry of Dousabella Harris (of Hayne) and her husband, John Beare, as their “circle” found their way to Virginia.

Hayne, (Devon) ar. a chev. gu. betw. three martlets sa.

WIlliam Holand of Weare in the county of Devon. Arms — Quarterly, of eight pieces: 1. Azure, semee de lis a lion rampant gardant Argent; 2. Gules, ten torteaux, two, three, two, two, and one, a canton Ermine; 3. Quarterly, Or and Gules, four escallops counterchanged ; 4. Azure, three bendlets Argent; 5. Ermine, a bend Gules; 6. Gules, a chevron Argent, between three plates ; 7. Gules, a fess nebuly Argent; 8. Gules, a chevron between three martlets Argent. Thus, the Hollands of Weare had intermarried with a Heiress whose family bore the Arms (differenced) of the Hayne family, which were also those of the Sanfords: ar. a chevron between three martlets sa.

1. Walter Hayne, born c. 1410. Quit Claim Thomas, son of John Beaumont to John Waylock and Margery his wife. Lands: tenement and garden in Pilton, between land of Walter Hayne of S. and land of John … on the N. and Podyngdon meadow on E and the road on the S. Wits: Walter Hayne, John Chive, John Colt, Hugh Geffrey, Thomas Colson. 9 Nov. 1442. (North Devon Record Office (N.D.R.) 1239 F/T 3). Feoffment: Lands and tenements in Barnstaple. Henry Hunte, s. and h. of John, to John Holand, Rector of Heanton (illigitimate half-brother of Henry Holland, Duke of Exeter) and Walter Hayne merchant. (N.D.R, B1/496. c. 1450). Charter: Robert Haywode and Richard Holemore. To the brothers and lepers of St. Margaret’s Hospital, Pilton. A tenement and adjacent garden in Pilton, in Smythynstrete: the tenement of Barnstaple Long Bridge to the east, that formerly of Walter Hayne to the west and the king’s highway to the south; to pray for the souls of Walter, his wife Joanna and their children, parents, benefactors and all of the faithful dead. (N.D.R., B1/4925. February 20, 1461). Pilton is in Barnstaple.
1.1. Thomas Hayne. Wytheman v Hayne. Plaintiffs: William Wytheman. Defendants: Thomas Hayne. Subject: Detention of deeds relating to land in Fremyngham. Devon. (National Archives (N.A.), C 1/175/59 1486-1493). From Fremington to Pilton is 4 miles. The Harris family held land in Pilton to at least 1693.
1.2. John Hayne. Hayn v Brase. Plaintiffs: John Hayn, son of Joan Hayn, deceased. Defendants: Phelype Brase and John Laplod. Subject: Detention of deeds relating to messuages and lands at Woddhouse in Sidbury. Devon. (N.A., C 1/141/66. 1486-1493).
1.3. William Hayne.
1.3.1. Edward Hayne.
1.3.2. Walter Hayne. Hayn v Hayn. Plaintiffs: Walter, son of William Hayn, of Bratton. Defendants: Robert Hayn. Subject: Detention of deeds relating to land in Stowford. Devon. (N.A., C 1/205/60. 1493-1500). Hayne v Hayne. Plaintiffs: Edward, son of William Hayne. Defendants: Walter Hayne, brother of complainant. Subject: Portion of corn and other goods due to complainant according to the custom of the hundred of Lyfton Frankelyn, by which the residue of a deceased man’s goods, after debts and legacies paid, were divided equally between executors for the health of his soul, his widow and his children, or, the wife not surviving, between executors and children. Devon. (N.A., C 1/205/92. 1493-1500).
1.3.2.1. Walter Hayne. Robert Hamlyn of Devon v William Gregory, Walter Hayne and Richard Meryfelde: a messuage and lands in Sprytown [in Stowford], Devon. (N.D.R., REQ 2/6/40. 1492 and 1547). This family of Hamlyn intermarried with a junior (Marwood) branch of the Harris of Hayne.
1.3.3.1.1. Walter Hayne, Esq.
1.3.3.1.1.1. Thomasine Hayne, married William Harris, died by January 12, 1547 (‘Captain Billy’), about whom ‘Jamaica Inn’ was written).
1.3.3.1.1.1.1. John Harris of Hayne, died 1551, of Ottery St. Mary, married Elizabeth Kelly, fl. 1551.
1.3.3.1.1.1.1.1. William Harris of Hayne, died February 23, 1591, married Mary Greville, daughter of Sir Fulk Greville of Beauchamp’s Court.
1.3.3.1.1.1.1.1.1. Arthur Harris of Hayne and Kenegie (died 1628) married Margaret Davils, daughter of John Davils of Totely.
1.3.3.1.1.1.1.1.1.1. William Harris, buried May 1661.
1.3.3.1.1.1.1.1.1.1.1. Christopher Harris of Hayne and Kenegie, died May 25, 1687.
1.3.3.1.1.1.1.1.1.2. John Harris of Hayne & Kenegie (born cica 1596, died March 6, 1656.
1.3.3.1.1.1.1.1.1.3. Joseph Harris.
1.3.3.1.1.1.1.1.1.3.1. Major John Harris, born circa 1640, of Saint Stephen’s Parish, Northumberland Co., will dated 20 September, 1718, mentions a legacy left by his uncle William Harris “of Hayne in parish of Stowford in County of Devon”.  In this construct, I have not followed the various guess works of  Mr. Vivian, and those who assign brothers to different generations on the sole basis that one died substantially before the other. It can also be noted that one brother may have married at the age of 23, another (probably for a second time) at the age of 46, adding to the confusion about generations.
1.3.3.1.2. David Hayne. David Hayne. Beare v Hayne. Plaintiffs: John Beare. Defendants: David Hayne. Subject: Land in Barnstaple late of Thomas Beare, deceased, father of complainant. Devon. (N.A., C 1/1174/38. 1544-1551). Bond by David Hayne to Robert Cade, Mayor, and to the Aldermen and Burgesses, for releasing and quit claiming all rights under the Manor of Barnstaple to the Castle Green, the Castle Bayley, and the Rack Haye. 12 January 1585. (Barnes, ‘Barnstaple records’, 1900. (Chalden v Chaldon. Plaintiffs: Alice Chalden, widow. Defendants: Miles Chaldon (her son). Subject: land in Pilton, Devon, agreed to be demised to the plaintiff, Alice Chalden, widow, and the defendant, Miles Chaldon (her son) by John Pinchard). (N.A., C 2/JasI/C3/30). 1603-1625.
1.3.3.1.2.1. William Hayne.
1.3.3.1.2.1.1. Thomas Hayne, bapt. March 4, 1540, Barnstaple.
1.3.3.1.2.2.2. David Hayne, married, September 13, 1564, in Barnstaple, Julyan Cotten.
1.3.3.1.2.2.2.1. Robert Hayne, Barnstaple.
1.3.3.1.2.2.2.2. Gilbert Hayne, Barnstaple.
1.3.3.1.2.2.2.3. William Hayne, Barnstaple.
1.3.3.1.2.2.2.4. Oliver Hayne, bapt. August 15, 1565, Barnstaple, married, February 25, 1612, at Plymouth, St. Andrews, Devon, Margaret Hitchens.
1.3.3.1.2.2.2.4.1. Hugh Haynes.
1.3.3.1.2.2.2.4.2. William Haynes.
1.3.3.1.2.2.2.4.3. Thomas Haynes, bapt. December 28, 1619. Thomas Hayne v James Yeo: money matters, Devon. (N.A., C 10/6/12. 1648). Thomas Haynes (died 1679), of Northumberland Co, bequeathed his brother, William Haynes, all his estate in houses, &c., in England, ” which may be known by my father’s will.” His will Rec. May 24, 1679, further bequested to son James Haynes my plantation. Daus. Elizabeth and Margarett Haynes land bought in partnership with Mr. Robt. Griggs upon a creek called Slaughters creek. My “nevie” Thomas Reave 5000 lbs. of tabacco. “Nevie” James Haynes who is also now in Va. Brothers James Haynes & his son. Wm. Haynes and his son Thos. Haynes all my estate in England after death of my sister Joan to whom I do give it for her life time, which came to me by my father’s will. Exors: Wife and children. Wits: John Molyne, Thos. Burroughs. (W.B. 5, p. 54). Lancaster Co, Court, March 9, 1697: James Haynes, William Jones, Thomas Gaskins, Thomas Pinkard, and Elizabeth Curtis comeing into Court and moveing for administration of their Mother, Elizabeth Pinkard’s, estate the same is therefore granted and itt is further ordered yt an Inventory of ye Estate be taken and returned upon Oath to ye next Court. Capt. William Jones married by 1681 Margaret Haynes, stepdaughter of John Pinckard and daughter of Thomas and Elizabeth Haynes: Lancaster Court of September 14, 1681, “The difference depending att this Court between John Pinckard & Elizabeth his wife, Relicte of Mr. Thomas Haynes (deced) & William Jones as marrieing Margaret, Eldest Daughter of the sde Haynes (deced) is to be referred to the next Court.” Deed 1704, Sept. 20, Capt Wm Jones & Margaret his wife by her atty Wm Jones Jr., land to Robert Carter, Mr. Hancock Lee atty Robt Carter”.
1.3.3.1.3. Thomas Hayne.
1.3.3.1.3.1. Peter Hayne, bapt. November 28, 1578, Barnstaple.
1.3.3.1.3.2. John Hayne, bapt. February 11, 1581, Barnstaple.
1.3.3.1.3.3. Ezekiell Hayne, bapt. July 5, 1584, Barnstaple.
1.3.3.1.3.4. William Hayne, bapt. December 3, 1586, Barnstaple.
1.3.3.1.3.5. Thomas Hayne, bapt. April 6, 1589, Barnstaple.
Dousabella Harris is one of those from the distant past whose name, preserved on a grave-slab in St Olave’s, Hart Street, gives a nudge toward wanting to know more of her. She and her husband, John Beare, have been recorded in stark abstraction: ‘Nave. Floor slab: John Beare, merchant, died 29 Jul 1696 aged 77 and Dousabell (Dulcibella) née Harris his wife, died 2 June 1688 aged 77; married ca. 1654’. Burial Register: 1688 June 9: ‘Mrs. Dulcibella, wife of Mr John Beare, Mrch was buried in ye south side chauncell; 1696 Aug. 7 Mr John Beare buried in ye south chancell’ … Arms: (Argent), three bears’ heads erased (sable), muzzled (or) (Beare); impaling: (Sable), three crescents (argent) (Harris). Crest: A bear’s head erased (sable), muzzled (or). Such genealogical shorthand hides a wealth of information, hinted at by Strype in his ‘Worthies’, who commented that they ‘both descended from good Families in the County of Devon’, and he ‘had lived for 42 years at St Olave Hart Street’.

This should be enough to excite enquiry, for it is immediately obvious that Dousabell was of the Harris family of Hayne, whose members had strong connections to Virginia – ‘Sir Fulke Greville of Beauchamp’s Court, married (1526) Elizabeth Willoughby, b. Apr. 28, 1510, their daughter, Mary Geville, married William Harris of Hayne, Esq., Sept. 11, 1553, at St Dunstan In the West, London. She was the sister of Edward Greville, who married Jane Grey; their issue included (1) Frances Greville, who married (1) Nathaniel West (Lt. Col.) of Virginia, (2) Abraham Piersey; (3) Samuel Matthews, Governor of Virginia‘; the said William Harris being the ancestor of Major John Harris of Northumberland Co., whose daughter, Sarah, married a member of her Devonshire kinship group, Anthony Haynie (Haynie being a variation of Hayne, in Stowford); their daughter, Grace Haynie, marrying another probable member, Capt. George Ball, 1683-1746, of ‘Bay View’, son of Capt. Wm. Ball, and Margaret, granddaughter of Col. William Underwood. Capt. Wm. Ball married (1) Mary or Margaret Williamson, daughter of James Williamson, of Rappahannock Co. David Ball, William Ball’s brother (born September 26, 1686; died December 14, 1732); married (2) May 29, 1727, Ellen Heale, daughter of George Heale, of Lancaster Co.

George Heale was probably of a prominent Devonshire family, kin of the Harris of Hayne. Margaret Harris, sister of the heretofore mentioned Arthur Harris, husband of Margaret Daville, married William Crimes, gent., buried September 9, 1621; their daughter, Elizabeth, married Sir Francis Glanville of Tavistock and Kilworthy, who died 1638, Serjeant-at-law, whose sister, Joan, was the wife of Sampson Heale of Gnaton, Sheriff of Devon, fl. 1621. Likewise, the Ball family were also probably of Devonshire stock. A Ball family were established at Totnes (Will of William Ball, Gentleman of Totnes, Devon November 3, 1602), and at Frithelstock nr. Barnstaple, where William Harris of Hayne held land (see Will of William Ball, Yeoman of Frithelstock, Devon, September 15, 1650).

April 17, 1667. *William Ball and Thomas Chetwood. 1600 acres on North Side of Rappahannock River in Rappahannock County. Due for transportation of 32 persons: William Ball, his son, Hannah Ball (his daughter, who married David Fox*), her daughters, Mary Jones, Martha Jones. This indicates that Hannah Ball, born March 12, 1650, was a ‘widow Jones‘.

Nov. 12, 1718: Will of William Fox: “Wife Anne; daughter Mary; sisters: Hannah Spellman, Anne Fox, and Catherine Heale. Nieces Frances Spellman and Frances Fox. Nephews: David Fox and Richard Kenner; Elizabeth Vaulx, Hannah Harris, Elizabeth, Sarah and Ellen Heale, daughters of George Heale; Wm Dare; Jas. Reeves; Wm. Attchison; Thos. Frazer; Mr. Geo Hele; Maj Wm Ball; James Ball, Wm Payne. Extrs: Wife Anne and Mr Wm Payne. Wits Nicho. George,* Geo. Wall, Eliz. Diggles (B. 10, p. 275). Inventory above estate recorded February 13, 1718. Proved by Anne Chichester, late Anne Fox, and Wm Payne.

Hannah Harris was a daughter of Rodham Kenner and Hannah Fox, sister of William Fox. After the death of Rodham Kenner, Hannah Fox married Clement Spelman. Hannah Kenner was the wife of John Harris. After the death of William Fox, his widow married (Marriage bond dated July, 1719). Richard Chichester, 2nd son of John Chichester of Widworthy and Margaret Ware, who came to Virginia in 1702, bringing with him his son, John.

The Chichester family held land in Frithelstock, as did Balthazar Beare, grandfather of John, husband of Dousabell Harris: Devon Record Office, Calendar of Deeds, membrane 17, 17d. May 5, 1565: Frithelstock: Bargain and sale by John Chichester of Frithelstock, esq, to John Dennis of Orleigh, esq, and John Boteler of Parkham, gentleman, of a third part of the manner and rectory of Frithellstocke which he holds for the term of the life of Dame Honor Lisley, widow.

Visitation (J. L. Vivian (1895), Devon, 1531 + 1564 + 1620 + additions, ‘Beare of Ash’).
Arms: (Argent), three bears’ heads erased (sable), muzzled (or).
1. George Beare, d. 1577, married Julian Harper.
1.1. John Beare, of Barnstable, Devon, married Agnes Snidall, daughter of John Snidall.
1.1.1. George Beare, married (2) Mary Newcourt, daughter of *John Newcourt of Pickwell, widow of William Stone of St. Minver.
1.1.1.1. John Beare, married Dousabell Harris.

John Newcourt bought the manors of Georgeham and Pickwell in 1560. The oldest inscribed tomb in the churchyard is that of John Newcourt, who died in 1602 … ‘To the pios memorie of Tobie Newcourt of Pickwell in this parish Esqr who married Mary third daughter of Arthur Harris of Heane Esq.’ (Denise Smith, Brian Harris, A Brief History of the Church in Georgeham, 2007).

1. John Harris, Seargeant-at-Law, Recorder of Exeter, 1544.
1.1. William Harris of Hayne, m. (1) Mary Greville.
1.1.1. Arthur Harris, of Hayne & Kenegie, Sheriff of Cornwall (b. by 1561, d. May 16, 1628), married Margaret Davils, daughter of John Davils and Mary Malet. John Davils was the nephew of Amy Davils, who married Richard Dennys, of Exeter; younger brother of Sir Thomas Dennys, who married Anne Paulet, daughter of William Paulet, 3rd Marquess of Winchester.
1.1.1.1. Mary Harris, married Tobyas Newcourt, of Pickwell.
1.2. Anthony Harris, of Marwood, buried April 10, 1618, 4th son.
1.2.1. Mary Harris, married John Newcourt, of Pickwell.
For Harris, see misc Cornwall (Kenegie in Gulval, etc) deeds and papers and misc Harris family papers, c. 1270-1842.

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WIVELISCOMBE

1.
1.1. John Hill, tanner.
1.1.1. Joan Hill, m. David Edney, 30 Jan 1574. (Thus, cousin of the Bennetts).
1.1.1. Thomas Hill, bapt. (b.) 7 July 1562.
1.1.2. George Hill, b. 24 Apr 1563.
1.1.3. John Hill, b. 19 Oct. 1564, m. Agnes Forte, 26 Apr 1585.
1.1.3.1. Richard Hill, b. 29 Sept. 1587.
1.1.3.2. Margaret Hill, m. John Harrys.
1.1.3.1.1. Edward Hill, b. 16 Oct. 1615, m. Lorrilie Bennett, 4 May 1643. She was of the generation of children born to Thomas Bennett, b. Nov. 5 Nov. 1603, at Wiveliscombe (who m. Agnes Beard 17 July 1623), brother of Richard Bennett, Governor of Virginia, and nephew of Eleanor Bennett, who m. Richard Harris, 6 Oct. 1594.
1.1.3.2. Thomas Hill, b. 26 Dec 1589, m. Joan Proust, 23 Dec. 1622.
1.1.3.2.1. Francis Hill, b. 16 Mar 1623.
1.1.3.3. Franncis Hill, 9 Feb. 1588.
1.1.3.4. Christopher Hill, 15 Dec. 1592.
1.1.3.5. Ethelred Hill, m. William Hutchins, 4 Jun. 1618.
1.1.4. Edward Hill, b. 16 Jan. 1572.
1.1.4.1. Elizabeth Hill, b. 30 May 1593, m. (1) Francis Norman, 4 Feb. 1611, (2) Lawrence Comer, 3 Feb. 1620.
1.1.4.2. Agnis Hill, m. Richard Perratt, 20 May 1624.
1.2. Thomas Hill.
1.2.1. Elizabeth Hill, m. John Upham, 28 Apr. 1588.
1.2.2. Thomas Hill, b. 5 Aug. 1561, m. Agnis Collerd, 31 July 1591.
1.2.2.1. oane Hill, b. 29 Apr. 1604, m. Phillip Chaplin, 26 Sept. 1617; (2) Thomas Marsh, 22 Jan. 1624.
1.2.3. Robert Hill, b. 21 Oct 1562, m. Grace Stoke, 12 Apr. 1589.
1.2.3.1. Robert Hill.
1.2.3.1.1. William Hill, b. 11 Nov. 1615, St Decumans.
1.2.3.2. Jacobus/James Hill, m. Katherine Holcombe, 17 Oct. 1625, da. of John Holcombe and Tomazin Herringe, who m. 4 July 1607 (he m. (2). Tomasin Bull, 27 Apr. 1617) , son of Nicholas Holcombe, and br. of Christian Holcombe, who m. John Hawkes, 9 May 1614; William Holcombe, who m. Mary Perratt, 8 Feb. 1618.
1.2.3.2.1. Nicholas Hill, b. 2 Feb. 1626; d. 26 March 1674, Virginia. He m. Sylvestra Bennett, da. of Edward Bennett, and was granted 670 ac. “at the Blackwater”. Begining near Parsons bridge on the Beverdam branch at a pine in George More’s line. Robert Flake sells George Moore (his br.-in-law) land on Blackwater adj. John Oliver and Thos. Wombell (the Lancaster connection), part of 2700 ac. granted 20 Aug. 1666, p.558. George Moore’s da. Ann Moore,* m. Thomas White. Their son was John White; his Will probated 2 May 1754 (Chapman, Wills, p. 177); great-grandfather of Avis White, who m. John Harris, the son of Robert Harris, son of Thomas Harris, d. 1688. John’s son, Joel Harris, m. Martha Barham, da. of James Barham and Mary Thorpe, and granddau. of Charles Barham and Sarah Judkin. *Ann Moore’s sister Magdalen Moore, m. Thomas Carter Jr. Aug. 11, 1673: “George Moore, in consideration of the marriage between Thomas Carter and Magdalen, daughter of said Moore, gives to Thomas Carter, and Magdalen in writing, 400 acres land laid out of dividend of 1400 acres in Blackwater Swamp”. John Munger was a close associate of the Carters; among the headrighs claimed by him were Charles Barcroft and George Moore. Another neighbour on Lawne’s Creek was James Tooke, an associate of William Carter, both being members of the Vintners’ Co. Many of these merchants were lifelong aquaintances; their children continued to intermarry for generations.
1.2.3.2.1.1. Richard Hill, of Craven Co.; his Will probated 18 Mar. 1729, naming granddau. Elizabeth, br. Francis Hill, da. Ann Jones; son-in-law, Evan Jones. W. James Taylor, Thomas Jones, John Lewis.
1.2.3.2.1.1.1. Elizabeth Hill, m. William Thomas.
1.2.3.2.1.1.1.1. Elizabeth Thomas, m. (2) John Boddie.
1.2.3.2.1.1.1.1.1. William Boddie, m. Mary Bennett, da. William Bennett, son of James Bennett, second son of Richard Bennett Jr. William Bennett was mentioned in the will of Matthew Fones, probated in IOW, 1704, witnessed by Thomas Woods, who, in 1669, deeded land to Richard Bennett Sr. “of Blackwater”. On 9 Jan. 1706, Robert Lawrence Jr. sells to Robert Crawford of Lawne’s Creek Parish, Surry, 150 ac. granted to my father, 23 Sept. 1643, which lay next to the land of the widow, Alice Bennett (see earlier notes), and a deed of Robert Lawrence Jr. stated: “This day being the 8th of April, 1706, William Bennett has given peaceable possession of these premises to Robert Lawrence of I0W in the presence of these witnesses, Carter Crawford, William Brantley.”

Robert Crawford had m. Elizabeth, da. of George Carter, thus, was kin of the Moore family. John and James Carter witnessed the will of Richard Bennett, Jr., in 1720. Carter Crawford, son of Robert, m. Sarah Swann, da. of Matthew Swann, and had issue Carter Crawford, Jr., who m. Elizabeth Kearney, sister of Mary Kearney, who m. William Bennett, Jr. (son of the above William). William Bennett may have married twice, and his first wife may have been Mary Hardy, a neighbour in IOW. Matthew Fones witnessed the will of Mary Hardy’s father, in 1694.

William Bennett’s Will, probated Feb. 1765, named daus. Grace Hill and Anne Ruffin, grandsons, Bennett Hill, William Ruffin (200 ac. of land in Edgecombe Co.); Nathan Boddie, and Willis Boddie. (Boddie, pp. 305-309). William’s father, “James Bennett, of Southwark Parish in the County of Surry, give to my son William Bennett plantation on which he now lives and part of a tract formerly bought of Charles Binns; to my son James 20 sh.; to my son John all my carpenters and coopers tools now in his possession. To daus. Anne, Martha, Mary and Sarah, personalty. To my daughter Bridget the use of my best house and as much land as she can work. To my son Samuel the use of my plantation where he now lives. After death of Samuel and his wife without male issue I give plantation to my grandson, Thomas Bennett, son of William Bennett. Samuel to be exr. Test. Charles Binns, Wm Goodwyn, Wm. Batt, Wm. Clark. Probated 17 Oct. 1752 (Wills 3, p. 804)

On 26 Sept. 1737, John Mangum’s estate was appraised by John Davis, Edward Brantly, and Joseph Ward. John Mangum had been living in Lower Parish, Surry Co, with the Bennett family.

In Feb 1779, William Bennett, orphan of William Bennett, dec. made choice of Charles Judkins as guardian. (Orders, 1775-1782, p. 80).

BODDIE

WIVELISCOMBE

1. Richard Boddy, bur. 11 Oct. 1560.
1.1. Richard Boddy, bur. 10 Jul. 1570.
1.2. John Boddy Sr., bur. 1 Jan. 1576.
1.2.1. John Boddy bur. 6 Jan. 1581.
1.2.1.1. Katherine Boddy, m. Christopher Blackford, 5 May 1575 (Clarke, Collins, Perse).
1.2.1.2. Joan Boddy, m. John Norman, 3 Aug. 1579 (Hill, Salmon, Snow).
1.2.1.3. Robert Body, bur. 13 Apr. 1608, m. Elizabeth Skinner, 20 Oct. 1586 (Webber).
1.2.1.3.1. Susan Boddy, m. John Preeste, 26 Sep. 1601 (Northe).
1.2.1.3.2. John Bodie, bapt. 24 Oct. 1592, m. Christian Harkswell, 19 Sep 1621.
1.2.1.3.2.1. Henry Body, m. Mary Light (Lide), 11 Jun. 1655 (Slade, Woolcott).
1.2.1.3.3. Robert Body, bapt. 5 Jun. 1596, m. Joan Taylor, 8 Sep. 1617 (Andrews, Moore, Upham, Hobbes).
1.2.1.3.3.1. Robert Body.
1.2.1.3.3.1.1. Robert Body, bapt. 26 Jun 1633.
1.2.1.3.4. William Body, bapt 21 Jul. 1602.
1.2.1.3.4.1, William Body. On 12 July 1665 John Marshall received a grant of 700 acres next to Capt. Anthony Fulgham’s grant and six of his headrights were assigned to him by William Boddie who, on that same day, was granted 3350 acres lying next to Fulgham’s and Marshall’s grants.

(Names in brackets are kinship connections).

copyright m stanhope 2017

When researching the possible origins of Edward Brantley of Virginia, it seems pertinent to consider the area parallel to the Bristol Channel; Wrington being its southerly outpost, Gloucester its northerly, and Bristol being between – the main area connected to John Seward, who claimed his headright: John Seward, 400 ac., 18 June 1638, upon North side of a S.W. creek setting out of the main creek commonly called Cary’s Neck. Due for trans. of 8 persons including Edward Brantly, Anthony Matthews, Gerson Cromwell. Edward Brantly, 30 Oct. 1669, 675 ac. adj. land of Mr. England and Mr. Tooke (associated with Thomas Harris, d. 1672).

Within this confine, we find a “John Brantley brasier”, who was aged about 40, and judged to fit to serve in the county militia with a caliver (a light matchlock weapon). This was of the third order of competence, the first two being a pikeman and a musketeer. John Brantley was described as living in Gloucester, North Ward. (John Smith, Men and Armour, MS. 14, 15, 16).

The search for any Brantley is hindered by the variety of spelling. The Bishop’s transcripts and parish registers of St. Catherine’s, Gloucester, show Brantle and Bryntley as two derivatives.

Yet, what seems most relevant are register entries of St Mary’s, Cheltenham, some 8 miles from Gloucester, which show Robert Brantly (Brentle) “bachelor” marrying Joan Goodriche “spinster”, on 16 October 1589. She may have been the da. of Thomas Goodrich and Joan Davis, who married on 3 February 1559; and she may have also been she who remarried to Gyles Mathews, on 28 November 1603.

Clarity is hindered by the inconsistency of church registry entries, yet what is evident is that the Goodrich family of Cheltenham were substantial leasors of land, and of the order of minor gentry:

Quitclaim. (1) John Goodrich, and William Goodrich, gentlemen, Thomas Butler gentleman and Joyce his wife. (2) John Alisaunder alias Mansell of Chorleton Kyngs, yeoman. 1 messuage and all the lands tenements fields meadows and pastures in Downehatherley and 2 tenements buildings with 2 gardens lying next to them situate in the parish of St. John the Baptist in the City of Gloucester, etc. (Gloucestershire Archives. D3117/190. 1538).

Hawthorne v Goodriche. Plaintiffs: Elizabeth Hawthorne, widow. Defendants: Robert Goodriche. Subject of decree: Toft and 1 yardland in Northfield in Charlton Kings, Gloucestershire, of the manor of Cheltenham. (National Arcives, C 78/8/37. 29 Oct. 1552).

Goodriche v Atkyns. Plaintiffs: Eleanor and Ralph Goodriche. Defendants: Rowland Atkyns alias Goodriche. Subject: Messuage and land in the manor of West End Naunton in Cheltenham and Charlton Kings of the settlement of Richard Goodriche, deceased, husband of the said Eleanor and father of the said Ralph. Gloucestershire. (ibid., C 1/1432/24-28. 1556-1558).

Goodrich alias v Hawle. Plaintiffs: Rowland Goodrich alias Rowland Atkyns. Defendants: Henry Hawle. Subject: copyhold held of the manor of Cheltenham, Gloucestershire. (ibid., C 1/1432/24-28. 1558-1579).

Merry v Goodrich. Plaintiffs: John Merry. Defendants: Richard Goodrich and Robert Goodrich his son. Subject: To remove a cause. Land holden of the manor of Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, respecting which a suit is depending in the court of the said manor. (ibid., C 2/Eliz/M2/16. 1558-1603).

Reynolde v Goodriche. Plaintiffs: Thomas Reynoldes and his wife Jane, and Arthur Bromley and his wife Mary. Defendants: Rowland Goodriche. Subject of decree: Twelve messuages and 740 acres of land and woods in Ham, Neastend and Naunton in parishes of Charlton Kings and Cheltenham, Gloucestershire. (ibid, C 78/31/9. 24 June 1566).

Hawthorne v Goodriche. Plaintiffs: Elizabeth Hawthorne, widow. Defendants: Robert Goodriche. Subject of decree: Toft and 1 yardland in Northfield in Charlton Kings, Gloucestershire, of the manor of Cheltenham. (ibid., C 78/8/37. 29 October 1552).

Hawthorne v Goodriche. Plaintiffs: John Hawthorne and John Merrye, both of Charlton Kings, Gloucestershire, yeo. Defendants: Richard Goodriche and Robert Goodriche (Jr.) his son. Subject of decree: Possession of copyhold lands in the parish of Charlton Kings held of the manor of Cheltenham. (ibid., C 78/31/9. 20 June 1601).

Joan Goodriche, the wife of Robert Brantley, as suggested, may have been the daughter of Thomas Goodrich and Joan Davis, and he a younger brother of Robert Goodriche Jr., but what of Robert Brantley?

His surname does not otherwise appear in the registers of St Mary’s, and this suggests that a common practice was being followed: that his wedding was taking place in the parish of his wealthy in-laws. 

This still leaves the question of the origins of his family unresolved, yet the social conventions of the time strongly suggest an answer: It would be highly unlikely that someone marrying into the Goodrich family was not of the Brantleys of Evesham, situated 17 miles from Cheltenham, and of an equal social status, albeit junior members of each family are probably concerned.

The known ancestry of the Evesham Brantleys relatively sparse; commencing with Richard Brantley, bapt. 1551; Serjeant of the Mace for Evesham. He was probably the brother of: 1. Thomas Brantley, who married Christian Burley, in 1587; he the father of Edward Brantley, who died in infancy; 2. William Brantley; 3. (it may be suggested), Robert Brantley, who married Joan Goodrich.

A number of sons of the next generation – John Brantley 1573, William Brantley, 1580, John Brantley, 1581, Thomas Brantley, 1583, sons of Robert; Thomas Brantley, 1591, Richard Brantley, 1592, may have been the father of Edward Brantley of Virginia. (Dates as baptisms).

Robert Brantley, who married Joan Goodrich, would be the most obvious of candidates, given later connections in Virginia:

1. George Moore (brother of Thomas Moore*), m. Jane Barcroft, da. of Charles Barcroft, a London vintner. George Moore (son of John Moore, mariner and merchant of Bristol), stated to be “age 78 years” when he made his will in 1710 (Chapman, IOW Wills, p. 54).

Sister to George and Thomas was Katherine Moore, who married (2) Robert Flake (a tobacco factor for Bristol merchants). By her first husband, she had issue:

Joyce, who married (1) Francis England, (2) George Cripps. Francis (F. E.) England, George Cripps. William Jennings of Bristol, surgeon, appts. Thomas Moore of Pagan Creek his atty. to collect from Arthur Skynner, Gyles Dryver (headright of Thomas Harris, d. 1672), and Joseph Whitson, and by virtue of a letter of atty. from John Hardiman of Bristol, taylor, to collect from William Hoodson in Nansemond. 29 June 1667. (Bodie, vol. 2, p. 550). Francis England was probably closely related to John England: Surrender of lease – John England of Bristol, merchant to John Seymour. (Bristol Archives, 8017/24. 20 April 1676).

1.1. Eleanor Moore, married Richard Piland, the son of James Piland, bapt. on 30 August 1604, in St Mary’s Le Porte, Bristol, headright of Francis England, in 1642. In the Will of John Oliver, written 19 April 1652, he wrote, “I do appoint my loving friends James Piland and Robert Bird”.
1.1.1. James Piland. On 28 April 1720, he, Benjamin Hodges, and Roger Ingram witnessed the will of Robert Lancaster. James Piland, and James Wilson were appointed executors of the will of Hester Brantley, who was their second-cousin once removed, and sister of Elizabeth Joyner. James Piland, Arthur Wills, and James Wilson appraised the estate of John Brantley, on 26 April 1725.
1.1.1.1. James Piland, married Elizabeth Brantley, da. of Phillip (son of Edward) and Joyce (Lewis) Brantley; the da. of Rebecca George (da. of John) and Thomas Lewis. John and Nicholas George of Virginia were very probably of the Gorges of Portbury, Somerset, a junior line of those of Wraxall. Nicholas George was the father-in-law of Thomas Harris, d. 1672.
1.2. Ann Moore, married Thomas White. The estates of Ann Moore and her husband Thomas White were appraised between 22 March 1741 and 26 July 1742 by Thomas Day, John Goodrich, and Edward Brantley. (Chapman, Wills, p. 142). Edward Brantley was security for the estate of Thomas Harris, d. 1672.

*February 1692: Thomas Moore and Thomas Thorpe. sworn by Capt. John Goodrich to appraise the estate of Richard Towle. (D.B 1, p. 133). John Goodrich was an overseer of the Will of Francis England; a witness being Richard Bennett (cousin of Thomas Harris, d. 1672). Security later given by Richard Sharpe. (R. 9 June 1677). George Bechinoe’s Will was witnessed by Robert Kae, an overseer of the Will of John Goodrich Jr. George Moore administered the estate of George Bechinoe.

1 John Goodrich, 1616-1698, by deposition. April 18 1679, Joyce Cripps: Leg. Husb. George cripps the lands and tenements given me by my former husband, Francis England, to the son of Francis England … Goddaughters, Elizabeth Hayes, Joyce Butler, and Joyce Wombwell … my three Godsons, James Bennett, Nicholas Davis, and William Phillips, my mother Flake. My husband Extr. R. 9 June 1679. Wit: John Gutridge (Goodrich), Rebecca Davis, Will Evans. (W&D B. 2, P. 202).
1.1. Capt. John Goodrich, 13 January 1695: Legatees: Son George land adjoining Thomas Proud and Thomas Thorpe, son John the land on which Thomas Drew now lives, land bought of Gilbert Adams to my two aforesaid sons, daus. Honour, Constancy and Mary, da. Elizabeth the land given her by her grandfather in law George Cripps. Wife Extx. Overseers: my brother Robert Kae and Mr. James Day. R. June 9, 1696.(W&D B. 2, p. 369). John Goodrich m. Anne Bechinoe, da. of Edward Bechinoe; an appraiser of the estate of Edward Harris, who died in 1677. June 9, 1679: Edward Bechinoe Estate. Mary Bechinoe, Richard Bennett.
1.1.1. John Goodrich Jr. The Newport Parish, IOW Co., Vestry Book, 12 February 1727, shows John Goodrich as a neighbour of Edward and James Brantley.

SEWARD

1. Bartholomew Seward.
1.1. William Seward. Bond in £6 by John Woode of Bristol, merchant, and John Cutt of Burnett, Somerset (17 mls fr. Wrington), gentleman, to William Lavington of Bristol, merchant, to be void if Wood and Cutt, their heirs, administrators, executors or assigns, pay £3 to Lavington, his heirs, administrators, executors or assigns, by 29 September 1594 at Lavington’s house in the Backe in Bristol. Signed by Wood and Cutte, and witness William, son of Bartholomew Seward. (WARD 2/54A/184/8).
1.1.1. Robert Seward, evidenced here; 1. Hierome Ham and Nicholas Meredith, gents. Ald. Abel Kitchin, Christopher Whitson, Henry Yate, John Northall, Abel Kitchin jun. Thomas Farman, Robert Kitchin, Robert Seward, William Yeomans, William Heaminge, Richard Jones (of Wrington and Chew Magna), Thomas Whittorne, Humfry Read, William Lymell, James Birkin, William Brinsdon, Toby Patch, Gabriel Deeme, Luke Hodges (cousin of the Wedmore Hodges), Edward Gerrish, Thomas Turner, Henry Gibbes, jun., Henry Yate, jun., John Kitchin, Henry Northall, William Yeaman. Parish lands of Christchurch; details given. (Bristol Archives, P/Xch/F/1. 18 Dec. 1626).
1.1.1.1. John Seaward, evidenced here: 400 ac. IOW Co.; 18 June 1638. Upon Warresquioke River. Beginning at a pynie pint by a little gutt running into the woods right over against the land of Nathaniell Floyd and near his former pattent. “Francis Hobbs’now wife Mary was former wife of Nathaniel Floyd deceased”. Francis Hobbs’ da. was the wife of John Harris, son of Thomas Harris, d. 1672. Francis Hobbs. Leg.- Alice Davis; cousin John Davis (the estate of Edward Harris, d. 1677, owed him money); cousin Margaret Harris the da. of John Harris. Ex., brother John Harris. R. 9 June 1688. Samuel Davis, sold this plot to John Bond, whose family, as the Fulghams, were of Pitminster, Somerset, and tenants of the Symes. John Seward was a headright of John Moone, in Warrasquinoake, in 1635. John Moone was kin of the Fulghams, Anthony Fulgham’s brother, Thomas, having married Mary (Moone) Green, half-sister of Sarah Moone, wife of John Pitt, of Bristol.

1. Thomas Pitt of Blandford Forum, North Dorset, m. Priscilla.
1.1. William Pitt, b. 1578, Bristol (encompasses North Somerset and South Gloucestershire); d. 25 Oct. 1624, in Bristol, Will pr. 3 Feb. 1625. I give my son William my best Turkey ring, which was my great grandfather’s, Mr. Roger Cookes. My second ring with pearl I give to son Robert. My signet ring I give my son Henry, and my ruby ring to my son Thomas. My books to son William, Sons to have their portion at one and twenty and daus. at twenty or marriage. Brother-in-law Richard Davis 20s for a ring and sister Mary Davis a double Harry gold sovereign of gold. William Pitt married Mary Owen, da. of Robert Owen, of Bristol, Merchant. His Will was probated 16 Feb. 1615 (8 Cope), mentioning “My cousin Rice Davies, esq. My brother in law William Pitt, overseer”. His da., Mary, m. Richard Davis esq, of Tickenham. Rice Davies m., thirdly, Mary Pitt, widow of Robert Owen. His first wife was Dorothy, da. of Maurice Rodney, Esq., and sister of Sir George Rodney; thus, his family were of familial association with the Hodges of Wedmore; from which stock came Hodges Council of Virginia.
1.1.1. William Pitt, held land in Redcliffe Street, Bistol.
1.1.2. Henry Pitt. He was Captain Henry Pitt, of Pagan Creek, who m. (2) Ann, widow of Robert Watson. His son, Thomas, m. Col. Athur Smith’s da., Mary. (see as follows).
1.1.3. Col. Robert Pitt, d. bef. 9 Jan. 1674, IOW. He was Captain of ‘the Thunder’, a merchant ship out of Bristol, and a Colonel in the Virginia Militia.
1.1.3.1. John Pitt, married Olive, da. of John Hardy and Alice Bennett, and relict of Giles Driver (of Bristol), a headright of Thomas Harris, who died in 1672, as stated.

It was not that John Seward was strictly of Bristol, Gloucestershire, as his Will indicates. The border between Gloucestershire and Somerset was not the firm concept that it is now, and his farm in Butcombe, Somerset, leased from Edward Bampfield, was only 11 miles from Bristol. He bequested lands in Barrington (as it correctly reads); northwest of Petherton, 17 miles from Wiveliscombe, and 23 miles from Wrington. His wife was bequested “other lands bought in that county from Thomas Parsyvall”. This bequest certainly included lands in Hemington: “Seward, John, immigrant, came to Virginia from Bristol, England, before 1635. He was a merchant and had grants of land in Isle of Wight county, one of which was called “New Hemington.” (Tyler, Encyclopedia of Virginia Biography). Hemington is 4 miles fom Mells/Nunney, and was the domain of the the Bampfields. It was there that Ann Harris (da. of William), bapt. 14 Dec. 1645, married William Persons (born 1649), on 20 Sept. 1674.

John Seward, “Merchant being bound to Sea on a Voyage of Bristol”, died in 1651 (PROB 11/216/686: Will of John Seward, Merchant being bound to Sea on a Voyage of Bristol, Gloucestershire). Francis Yeomans of Bristol, gent., and Walter Stephens of Bristol, mercer, were named overseers, and receive 40s. apiece.

Walter Stephens witnessed the following marriage settlement by deed: 1. Henry Pitt (aforementioned), merchant. 2. Thomas Dale of Wrington, Somerset, gent., Walter Stephens, mercer, John Price and William Shute, gent. Premises: One messuage in Redcliffe Street, St. Thomas One garden near St.Thomas’ Lane, St. Thomas One messuage in Redcliffe Street, Redcliffe. Consideration: Marriage, already solemnised between Henry Pitt and Margaret, da. of Thomas Dale and £450 dowry. (Bristol Archives, 9 June 1635).

It is very probable that John Seward was of a family which straddled the Gloucestershire/Somerset border, as was the case of many of his fellow Bristol mariners, an example being Francis Derrick, the purchaser of Sergeant John Harris’s land, who held land in Somerset, near Wedmore.

The following probates may be of relevance to the wider family of John Seward: PROB 11/203/38: Will of John Seward, Gentleman of Kingston Seymour, Somerset. 7 January 1648. PROB 11/245/378: Will of John Seward, Gentleman of Kilmington, Somerset. 22 May 1655.

As given, John Seward claimed the headright of Edward Brantley.

BECHINOE

1. George Bechinoe.
1.1. Conyers Bechinoe: Bechinoe v Eckly. Plaintiffs: Conyers Bechinoe and others. Defendants: John Eckly and others. Place or subject: property in Henbury, Bristol etc, Gloucestershire. (C 7/540/16m 1678) PROB 11/359/166: Will of John Eckly, Apothecary of Bristol, Gloucestershire 6 Feb. 1679. Dennis Hollister of the City of Bristol, grocer, 1 September 1675, with a codicil bearing date 6 July 1676, proved 21 July 1676: To son, “my corner house and shop which I bought of Richard Jones, in the parish called Mary Part in Bristol (from whence the Pilands) … To my da. Lydia Jordan, wife of Thomas Jordan, my new house lately built at Frampton Cotterel … next to my grandda., Bridget Jordan, my da. Lydia’s eldest da., and a portion to my grandda. Lydia Jordan … my da. Phebe Hollister half of my Inn called the Whitehart, in Broad Street, one fourth part of which was my wife’s inheritance and one fourth I lately bought of Anne Yeomans deceased, and one other fourth part I lately bought of Edmond French, son and heir of Elizabeth French also deceased, and the other fourth part I lately bought of Henry Rowe and Judith his wife, which said Judith, Elizabeth, Ann and my wife were the daus. and coheirs of Edmond Popley, merchant deceased. Witnesses I. Chauncy, John Eckly, Rich. Hawksworth. Richard Jones:

William Hancock m. Elizabeth Spencer, da. of Nicholas Spencer, and sister of Robert Spencer, who m. Elazabeth White da. of Captain John White of Surry Co. His widow remarried to Captain William Corker. William Hancock’s son and namesake m. Elizabeth Spencer, having issue: John Hancock, who m. Jane Holt. da. of Randall Holt Jr. and Elizabeth Hansford, da. of John Hansford of York Co. and Elizaeth Jones, da. of Richard Jones. John Hansford; his will written in 1654, noted that Robert Jones was the tutor of his children and leaves him a legacy of 500 lbs. of tobacco.

The will of Elizabeth Hansord was record in February, 1677: I give & bequeath unto my sonne Wiliam Hansford 7 his heirs forever that seat of land now in the possession of William Coman scituate & lying & beingin Bruton Parish being my right & due as being the surviving child of Mr. Richard Jones my father dec’d.

Elizabeth Jones, wife of Richard, had obtained Power of Attorny over her husbands estate when he briefly left Virginia. She was to be assisted by George Light (Lyde), her husbands friend. After Richard’s death, in 1660, Light claimed that his estate owed him £8 for the building of a Tobacco House. On 23 August, 1660, Henry Andrews, of London, Merchant, gave Letter of Attorney to George Light to recover from Elizabeth Jones, widow and executrix of Richard Jones, late of Virginia, decd. Witnessed in London by Robert Spencer.

William Lyde (Light), m. Elizabeth Jones, da. of “Richard Jones Esq., of Stowey, Co. Somerset”(Wiltshire and Swindon History Centre, ref. 212B/709. 7 Aug. 1669).
Richard Jones Esq. of Stowey in Chew Magna ; born 1605 and Joyce Woodward, had issue, baptised at Stowey:
Thomas Jones, 1 Jan. 1627.
William Jones, 5 Jul. 1630.
Richard Jones, 3 Apr 1634.
Elizabeth Jones 29 Sept. 1636.
Richard Jones, 8 Mar. 1637. His younger sibling was not deceased, but may have been ill.
Susanna Jones 28 Mar. 1639.
Samuel Jones, 22 Jun. 1640.
John Jones, 7 Apr. 1642.

1.2. Edward Bechinoe, d. 9 June 1679, m. Mary.
1.2.1. George Bechinoe, d. aft. 10 Aug. 1700.
1.2.1.1. Edward Bechinoe.
1.2.2. Anne ‘Alice’ Bechinoe, d. 1712, m. (1) Robert Kæ, (2) John Goodrich Jr., b. 9 April 1653, d. 9 June 1695.
1.2.2.1. Elizabeth Goodrich, d. 1737, m. Francis Wrenn.
1.2.2.2. Honour Goodrich, d. 1760, m. (1) James Wilson, (2) Thomas Pierce.
1.2.2.3. Constance Goodrich, d. 1752, m. (1) Benjamin Hodges, (2) John Harrison.
1.2.2.4. Mary Goodrich, m. George Riddick, d. 7 April 1727.

HARRIS

1. William Harris, m. Dorothy Westbrooke, 31 Aug. 1562, in Wiveliscombe; kin of a family of Forte.
1.1. Richard Harris, m. (8 Oct. 1594), Eleanor Bennet, sister of (1) Thomas Bennett, who had issue: (1) Thomas Bennett, b. Nov. 11, 1603 at Wiveliscombe, father of Alice Bennett, who m. John Hardy. Nugent, C&P vol. 1, p. 569; their da., Lucy, m. Hodges Council; her sister m. Richard Jackson, their da., Mary Jackson, m. Capt. George Hardy, appraiser of the estate of Edward Harris, d. 1677. (2) Richard Bennett, bapt. 6 Aug. 1609, Governor of Virginia. (2) Edward Bennett.
1.1.1. William Harris, bapt. 28 Jan. 1595. He may have been the William Harris, headright of John Moone in IOW, in 1637 – the Fulgham connection.
1.1.2. Thomas Harris, m. Judith Blake, 20 Nov. 1623, in Wiveliscombe, Somerset, probably he who d. in Virginia in 1672. Thomas Harris was the cousin of Richard Bennett, whose first wife was Anne, who was Charles Barham’s sister (see Douglas Richardson, ‘Plantagenet Ancestry’). Mr. Charles Barham Ex., Thomas Harris (d. 1672) and Thomas Tuke overseers, were officers of the will of William Ridley, who was probably the br. of Elizabeth Ridley, Charles Barham’s wife. Thomas Harris, Will recorded 13 Nov. 1672. Security: John Newman and Edward Brantley. Thomas Harris was also the nephew of Edward Bennett. Christopher Reynolds Sr. emigrated to Virginia as an indentured servant of Mr. Edward Bennett. Bk. 1, pp. 46-8, “Imprimis: I give and bequeath unto my son Christopher Reynolds Jr. all my land on the southerly side of the Freshest swamp that Richard Jordan (his son-in-law who m. da. Elizabeth Reynolds) now liveth upon”.
1.1.2.1. John Harris. William Groves, appraisal by John Harris, Edward Brantley, Elias Fort and Edward Grantham; recorded 9 Feb. 1678. (B. 2, p. 172). John Harris m. a da. of Francis Hobbs, who sold Edward Brantley 675 ac. adj. Thomas Tuke, in 1669.
1.1.2.2. Thomas Harris, d. 1688. Probably he bapt. 31 Dec. 1637, in Cheddar (the domain of the Lancasters, who also held land in Wiveliscombe), ‘son of Thomas’.
1.1.2.2.1. Thomas Harris, d. 1730: Thomas Harris 290 ac. IOW, on the Maherin River and both sides of Herbert’s Branch adj. Edward Brantley (son of Phillip and Joyce Lewis), and William Simmons line, 24 March 1725. Edward Brantley, John Thorpe, and Thomas Purcell appraisers. Edward Brantley’s son, John, m. the widow of Thomas Harris, Hannah Judkins.
1.1.2.2.2. Robert Harris.
1.1.2.2.2.1. John Harris, d. 1772 in Southampton Co., m. Avis White.
1.1.3. Richard Harris.
1.1.3.1. John Harris, bapt. 18 Feb. 1624; probably d. 1687, Virginia, m. Unity. He was the second-cousin of Richard Bennett, Governor of Virginia, whose first wife, Anne, was Charles Barham’s sister.
1.1.2.1. Elizabeth Harris, m. Samuel, son of Robert Lancaster Sr. and Sarah, widow of her 2nd husband, Richard Bennett Sr., d. 1710.
1.1.2.2. John Harris. On 9 Nov. 1708, Samuel Lancaster was granted the administration of the estate of John Harris, his brother-in-law
1.1.4. Robert Harris. Lawne’s Creek; 26 October 1646, James Tooke to Robert Harris, all my right and title to this lease.
1.1.4.1. Edward Harris, bapt. 8 Aug. 1624, Wedmore (juxta Cheddar), ‘son of Robert’; he who probably d. in 1677, in Virginia.

RIDLEY

1. John Ridley, Iron Acton, gent., W., and Margery Machin, Ham.
1.1. Thomas Ridley. John Harvey, clerk v. Thomas Ridley: Rectory and parish of Iron Acton, in the county of Gloucester. Tithes.: Gloucester 19 Chas 2. (Bristol Archives, E 134/19Chas2/East26). Marriage settlement. 1 Elizabeth (relict of Thomas) Ridley of Iron Acton, Glos, widow. 2 Thomas Smith of Yate, Glos, gent. 3 Alexander Tomes of Wickwarr, gent and John Neale of Yate, yeoman … several closes of meadow or pasture … etc. … all in Wickwarr in tenure of Elizabeth Ridley formerly purchased by John Tomes late father of Elizabeth Ridley from James Woolworth als Webb and wife Christian and bequeathed to Elizabeth Ridley by will of John Tomes; to use of Elizabeth Ridley for life; then to use of Thomas Smith for life, then to their issue, in default of which, to right heirs of Elizabeth Ridley. (Bristol Archives, P/HTS/I/4/g 1677. 2-3 Nov. 1677).
1.2. John Ridley, Will probated 26 Apr 1699.

William Machin married Elizabeth Ridley, at Winterbourne, Somerset, the parish of John Seward’s wife.

MERRICK

Will of William Merrick, merchant, of Bristol. Provides for annuity of £70 for wife Sarah to bring her jointure to £150 p.a., as previously agreed. Lands, mess., ten., plantations, negro slaves, etc., in Barbodoes and England to son, Thomas Merrick.
House, etc., in St. Michaels Hill, Bristol, to wife, Sarah. No note of Probate. ( Bristol Archives, JER/WA/30/6. 29 Oct. 1684).

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It would seem somewhat dampening to the spirit of those seeking the origins of the following Bynums to give lengthy detail of a Harris family of Wiveliscombe, Somerset, so suffice it to impart that Edward Bennett, uncle of Thomas Harris of that place, was associated with Christopher Reynolds Sr., who emigrated to Virginia as his indentured servant. Bk. 1, pp. 46-8, “Imprimis: I give and bequeath unto my son Christopher Reynolds Jr. all my land on the southerly side of the Freshest swamp that Richard Jordan (his son-in-law who m. da. Elizabeth Reynolds) now liveth upon”. It may also be of use to mention that the family of Lancaster (Squires of Cheddar juxta Wedmore) were associated with Wiveliscombe, and that these Harris were kin of  families of Forte and Bodie.

In Wiveliscombe, John Benham/Bainham, bur. 1 Sept. 1601, was the father of Phillip Benham, who m. Ellinor, 4 July 1560; they the parents of Thomas Benham, bapt. 7 June 1566, and Tobias Benham, bapt. 8 May 1579; either of these being the father of Richard Benham, father of James Benham, bapt. 2 Nov., 1639. In Wedmore, Henry Bainham, who died in Wiveliscombe, was the father of Thomas Bainham, bapt. 22 Apr 1578; they of certain relationship to George Bainham, who m. Julianam Gane, 18 Jan. 1591. She m. 2. William Day, 1 Oct. 1595. Julia Gane was the aunt of John Gane, bapt. 8 Sept. 1588, father of Judith Gane, bapt. 21 Nov 1619, who m. William Popham, 29 May 1643, br. of George Popham, who m. Mary Comer 30 Apr 1635, relict of John Councell, who she m. 26 Nov 1631; the very probable uncle of Hodges Councell of Virginia; with Mary Comer being the sister of the wife of John Harris of Cheddar, tenant of the Lancasters, and probable uncle of Thomas Harris, d. 1688.

It is with this rather scanty kinship outline that the following Bynums are introduced; it has to be so, because the connection between English and Virginia ancestries is one of repeated relationships. Stripped of assumptions, the following is most likely true:

1. Richard Bynum, Wiveliscombe.

1.1. John Bynum. On 29 September 1679, John Bynum sold to Richard Jordan Sr. the land he had purchased from George Blow.

1.2. James Bynum, bapt. 2 Nov. 1639, in Wiveliscombe; d. c. 1720, Surry Co. There is no evidence that she married a Mizzell, nor that the Mizells were French Hugenots. Massall/Mascell were not such uncommon English names. See Robert W. Baird: “There is no association at all between any Bynums and Mizells prior to 1691. They lived in different parts of the county, were enumerated in different tax districts, and their paths never crossed in any record. The first association between the families is a purchase of land adjoining Luke Mizell Jr. by James Bynum in 1691. Elizabeth Bynum’s witness of Luke Mizell’s will two years later, and James Bynum’s appointment as an appraiser of the estate can be explained by the fact that they were next-door neighbors” … “other witnesses and appraisers were also neighbors and no one has assumed that they were” internarried with the Bynums. In this case, James Bynum’s d.o.b. can not be assumed on the supposition of a marriage.

1.2.1. William Bynum, m. Mary Fort. He witnessed the will of his father-in-law John Fort on 21 October 1724 in Surry Co. In 1730, he witnessed Mary Fort’s discharge of dower in land conveyed by her husband, John Fort, Jr. to Davis Hopper on the Moratock in Bertie Precinct. (Bertie Co. D.B. C, p. 252). On 3 December 1744, William Bynum bought 300 ac. from Thomas Drake in Edgecombe Co. on the upper side of Fishing Creek. William Bynum (first cousin of William Bynum, aforesaid, married Elizabeth Sugars Fort, the widow of Mary Fort’s first cousin, Elias Fort, and the da. of John Sugars. She left a will in Southampton Co. proved 3 July 1773, leaving slaves to her sons and dau.: William Bynum, Benjamin Bynum, and Abigail Williamson,and the residual estate to son Michael Bynum. Specific bequests were made to grandson Cordall Norfleet Bynum, son of Cordall Norfleet and Ann Bynum, da. of Michael. Cordall Norfleet was the son of Joseph Norfleet, first-cousin of Marmaduke Norfleet, whose da., Elizabeth Norfleet, m. James Harris in Halifax Co, NC., son of: James Harris, Will pr. 10 Jan. 1749; son of Edward Harris and Mary Turner; his Will was pr. 25 March 1734, in IOW Co.; son of Thomas Harris, d. 1688. Mary Fort was the da. of John Fort and Elizabeth Jordan, named in her father’s Will of 24 Sept. 1695 as Elizabeth Fort, da. of Richard Jordan Jr., son of Richard Jordan Sr., aforementioned.

1.2.1.1. William Bynum, m. Mary Crocker, 13 Jan. 1762, Southampton Co., da. of Benjamin Crocker and Sarah Barrow. Benjamin Crocker was the son of Robert Crocker, who named sons Benjamin, Moses, and Arthur in his will, recorded 10 Jan. 1750; his estate being appraised by William Bynum, John Harris, and Arthur Long. Robert Crocker named his daus., Elizabeth Jordan, Sarah Braswell, and Mary Middleton. His son, William Crocker, Will dated 27 Oct. 1729, pre-deceased him, and was the father of Joseph Crocker; Will recorded 5 Feb. 1761, appraised by Thomas Holliman, who m. Catherine Lancaster, da. of Elizabeth Harris and Samuel Lancaster. Catherine Lancaster was the sister of (1) Martha Lancaster, who m. John Holliman, son of Christopher Holliman, Jr. 25 Sept. 1739: From Christopher Holliman of Bartee precinct, North Carolina, and John Holliman of Newport parish in IOW, to Arthur Crocker of Newport Parish in IOW … 300 ac. on the E. side the main Swamp in Newport Parish. (D. B. 5, p. 143). (2) Unity Lancaster, who m. Thomas Betts, whose estate was appraised by Henry Lancaster, Abraham Jones, and William Harris, and recorded 6 May 1773. (3) Mary Lancaster, m. William Drake, son of Richard Drake, Will probated 13 Sept. 1759. Richard Drake was the son of Thomas Drake, b. 1650, in South Petherton, Somerset, and Sarah. Richard Drake, b. 1696; d. 1759, Southampton Co. Will recorded W.B. 1, p. 313. He patented land in IOW in 1717, and in 1746 he received other patents, see Bertie Co, D.B. B, p. 132, D, p. 245; E, p. 52. Richard Drake was the br. of John Drake. born 1695, d. 1729 in Bertie Co. He m. Sarah Bryant in 1725, da. of James Bryant, and sister of Eleanor Bryant, wife of Richard Braswell, Mary Bryant, wife of Richard Sumner; and (paternal) half-sister of Robert Bryant, who had issue: Lewis Bryant, who m. Celia Holliman on 18 Nov, 1776 in Johnston, NC.; Arpey Bryant, who m. Richard Holleman on 8 Jan. 1768, in Johnston; Elizabeth Bryant, who m. James Grantson Holliman (the probable son of Samuel and his wife, Elizabeth Jones), on 16 Apr. 1772, in Johnston. Richard and John Drake were the nephews of John Drake, born 1647 in South Petherton. He m. Jemima Parnell in 1675, and patented land in IOW in 1682. Will of Thomas Parnell, cooper, dated 10 Oct. 1687; proved 9 June 1688: Sons Thomas, Joseph; dau. Susanna; 3 daus; my children shall be brought up in the fear of the Lord and to learne to wright and reade; Sister Jemima Drake. My cloth coate or hayre camlett coat to Mr. John Fulgeham; John Drake; Joane Johnson; cozen John Williams; cousen Sarah Williams to have my dau. Jane’s best suit of apparell. John Drake was the father of John Drake, b. 1680, fatherof Richard Drake, who patented land in IOW; and who in 1727 witnessed the Will of Mary Bodie.

The Crockers were almost certainly of South Petherton, where Thomas Crocker m. Charity Seagar (Sugar) on 25 May 1606, and their son, Thomas, m. Judith Fursland, 30 May 1641.

The earliest origins of these families may be found in the records of Wells Cathedral:

From the great number of benefactions and endowments received in the Middle Ages by the Vicars Choral of Wells, from the time of Bishop Ralph de Shrewsbury (A.D. 1329-63) downwards, the documents formerly in their possession must have been very numerous. However this may have been in former days, their records and archives that have survived to the present time, are comparatively few in number, except certain parchment Rolls of Account, which are still somewhat numerous. Of those that have so survived, a large proportion are so entirely decayed that they are either mouldering to dust, from the effects of damp, or are at least wholly illegible.

A long roll, finely written, containing several accounts; the Computus of the Bedel of Snersholte, A.D. 1438; the Computus of William Gyffarde, the Bedel of Sparkeforde, or Drayton Sparkeforde [near Castle Carey, in Somerset] for the same year. In this account, persons named “Henry Scarlet and “John Blake” occur.

Computus of John Benham, Warden, or Supervisor, of La Wellysleigh, A.D. 1455:— the manor, near Wells, from which the Wellesley family derives its name; no mention, however, of any member of the family is to be found in it. The Wellesley property, now known as the “Manor of Wellesley and Dulcot,” was given to the Vicars Choral by Bishop Ralph of Shrewsbury, A.D. 1354.

This is followed, on the same membrane, by the account of the same John Benham, as the Warden, or Supervisor, of La Fennes, in the same year. Among his items of expenditure, is a charge of 3s. 7d. for riding to the Sheriff, to obtain the liberation of John Russell, bailiff of Fennes, who was in the lock-up house [incluserio] at Yvelcesetre [Ilchester]. The roll concludes with the account of the same John Benham, as the Warden, or Supervisor, of La Hethorne, for the same year.

Computus of Henry Sporyer and Richard Harris, “Receivers of the moneys of the Vicars of the Cathedral Church of Wells, dwelling in the New Work” — the New Close — A.D. 1461. This is a long roll, and finely written, but in some parts illegible, from damp. William Pitte, of Wedmore, is again mentioned as a tenant, paying 70s. yearly for Chambleynshinne. They account for 4s. 4rf. received for saffron, “growing in “the common garden” this year: also, for 2s., for the dripping [pinguedine] in the kitchen; and “for 6s. 8d. “the gift of Master Hugh Sugar, Official of the Bishop “in the Consistory of Wells, as his fee on being admitted Rural Dean from the Parish Church of Kyngestone, this year.”

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1. Thomas Harris, m. Judith Blake, 20 Nov. 1623, in Wiveliscombe, Somerset. He was a cousin of (1) Richard Bennett, Governor of Virginia, and probably he who d. in Virginia in 1672. B. 5, p. 224: Henry Baker deceased, estate dated 27 April 1701. Witnesses: Robert Lancaster Sr., Nicholas Sessoms, whose da. was Mary Blake, wife of William Blake. Richard Bennett’s first wife was Anne, who was Charles Barham’s sister (see Douglas Richardson, ‘Plantagenet Ancestry’). Mr. Charles Barham Ex., Thomas Harris (d. 1672) and Thomas Tuke overseers, were officers of the will of William Ridley, who was probably the br. of Elizabeth Ridley, Charles Barham’s wife. The Tukes descended from a Holliman heiress. Thomas Harris, Will recorded 13 Nov. 1672. Security: John Newman and Edward Brantley. Edward Brantley Sr. came to America as an indentured servant under John Seaward of Bristol, who received a land patent on 18 June 1638 for 400 ac. in IOW. His son, Phillip Brantley, m. Joyce Lewis, da. of Thomas Lewis and Rebecca George, da. of John George, undoubtedly related to Nicholas George (see earlier notes), father-in-law of Thomas Harris, d. 1672. John George, appraisal by John Brantley, Thomas Hardy, George Riddick, and George Barlow, c. 1711. (B. 2, p. 527).
1.1. John Harris. William Groves, appraisal by John Harris, Edward Brantley, Elias Fort and Edward Grantham; presented by Mrs Elinor Groves,; recorded 9 Feb. 1678. (B. 2, p. 172). John Harris m. a da. of Francis Hobbs, who sold Edward Brantley 675 ac. adj. Thomas Tuke, in 1669. The Brantleys association with this kinship group stemmed from their marriage into the family of Hodges Council, of Wedmore, somerset. (2) Edward Bennett’s children. Christopher Reynolds Sr. emigrated to Virginia as an indentured servant of Mr. Edward Bennett. Bk. 1, pp. 46-8, “Imprimis: I give and bequeath unto my son Christopher Reynolds Jr. all my land on the southerly side of the Freshest swamp that Richard Jordan (his son-in-law who m. da. Elizabeth Reynolds) now liveth upon”.

1.2. Thomas Harris.

1.2.1. Thomas Harris, d. 1730: Thomas Harris 290 ac. IOW, on the Maherin River and both sides of Herbert’s Branch adj. Edward Brantley (son of Phillip and Joyce Lewis), and William Simmons line, 24 March 1725. Edward Brantley, John Thorpe, and Thomas Purcell appraisers. Thomas names a son, Joshua, in his will, and also an “unborn child wife now goes with”. Edward Brantley’s son, John, m. the widow of Thomas Harris, Hannah Judkins, whose mother remarried to William Harris before 1721. In Jan. 1708, administration of Edward Taylor’s estate was granted to Margaret Taylor; witnesses William Gray, Timothy Thorpe, and William Harris. (Davis, 127).

Margaret Taylor (da. of Edward Taylor and Margaret Gray) and William Judkins (son of Robert Judkins) had issue: 1. Elizabeth Judkins (m. John Berryman) 2. Hannah Judkins (m. Thomas Harris, d. 1730, IOW Co., son of Thomas, son of Thomas Harris, d. 1672, and Alice Newman). Margaret Taylor m. William Harris before 1721; her son Thomas Taylor m. his granddau., Mary Harris. William Harris: his Will was probated 19 April 1721. To wife Margaret. To grandson Harris Taylor. To granddau. Mary, wife of Thomas Taylor. To grandson Harris Taylor, land purchased of Robert Girly. To granddau. Mary, land at her death to her husband Thomas Taylor. At their deaths, to their son Thomas Taylor. Friends Capt. Thomas Holt and William Gray to divide property and overseers of the will. Executor, Thomas Taylor. (W.B 7, p. 325).

Thomas Holt was the son of Randall Holt and Elizabeth Hansford, da. of of Colonel John Hansford. Thomas Holt’s first wife was Frances Mason, da. of Francis Mason , whose Will names Thomas Holt, “Son-in-law” (B. 2., p. 116). Elizabeth Mason, wife to Francis, and mother to Thos. Holt was the widow of Thomas Binns, Sr. As Mrs. Elizabeth Binns she patented 777 ac. on 18 Oct. 1669. (B. 6, p. 281) On May 6, 1701., as Elizabeth Mason, she deeded 388 ½ acres to Grandson, Francis Holt, and 388 ½ acres to grandson, Francis Mason – “if he dies, to Grandson, Charles Binns.” (Surry W&D B. 2., p. 225) Thus, Frances Mason Holt, first wife of Thomas Holt, was ½ sister to Thomas Binns (Jr). Robert Barham lived successively with Thomas Binns, Robert Hart, and Thomas Holt

1. Joseph Thorpe, m. Dorothy Fenn, da. Timothy Fenn, Sr. (Were they of the Fenn family of Wedmore, Somerset?).
1.1. Thomas Thorpe, d. 1711 in IOW Co. m. (1) bef. 1686, Martha Jennings, d. 1702, da. of John Jennings, Clerk of Court of IOW Co. and Mary Seaward. John Jennings first wife had been Martha, da. of Robert (co-incidentally named) Harris, alias Crumpe, of Quedgely, Gloucestershire. Thomas Thorpe m. (2) Mary Lewis. John Jennings: Leg.- son *John; da. Martha; da. Mary my land on Lyon’s Creek; da. Sarah the land bought of Valentine Chitty; son-in-law William Seward; George Seward, wife Mary; Overseers, Capt. Edmund Wickins, Lt. George Moore, Thomas Moore, William Seward. Date. Oct. 19, 1678. Wit: George Lewer, Mathew Wood. George Lewer.

Edward Bennett left two daus, one of whom, Mary, m (1) Thomas Bland, of London; (2) Luke Cropley. The other, Silvestra, m. Major Nicholas Hill, son of Thomas Hill and Margaret Wyke of Ninehead Flory, Somerset. Mary, a da. of the first-named da., Mary Bland-Cropley, m. James Day of IOW., and Mary, a da. of Silvestra Hill, the other da. of Edward Bennett, m. *John Jennings, son of the clerk of the same name.

Edward Bennett’s daus. were cousins of Thomas Harris, d. 1672. His chidrens’ association with the Thorpes predated the associations of the family of Thomas, d. 1688.

1.1.1. Sarah Thorpe (by first wife), m. (1) William George, son of John George, thus kin of Thomas Harris, d. 1672; (2) William Batts. As given previously, John George was probably he who was bapt. 6 Nov. 1603, in Pilton, Somerset.
1.1.2. John Thorpe, apraisee of the estate of Thomas Harris, d. 1730.
1.2. Joseph Thorpe.
1.3. Timothy Thorpe: Edward Taylor died by early 1708 in Surry Co. In Jan. 1708, administration of his estate was granted to Margaret Taylor; witnessed by William Gray, Timothy Thorpe, and William Harris. (Davis, 127).
1.3.1. John Thorpe, d. 1772 in Southampton Co.; m. Mary Matthews.
1.3.1.1. Sarah Thorpe, m. Lewis Harris.
1.3.1.2. John Thorpe, Jr., m. Martha Atkinson.
1.3.2. Timothy Thorpe, d. 13 Oct. 1763, in Southampton Co., m. Martha Peterson, who m. (2) James Jones. Martha Jones of the Parish of St Luke. Leg. – son Timothy Thorp; granddau. Mary Cock Simmons; granddau. Peggy Ridley; granddau. Rebecca Simmons, Martha Ridley, Ann Thorp, Martha Thorpe, Temperance Atherton; Polly Person and Martha Person; grandson John Thorp Richardson. Ex. son Timothy Thorp. R 12 April 1781. Wit Hardy Harris, Sally Jarrell, Sarah Hasty.
1.3.2.1. Peterson Thorpe, m. Martha Person.
1.3.2.1.1. Martha Thorpe, m. Francis Taylor.
1.3.2.2. Timothy Thorpe.
1.3.2.3. Mary Thorpe, m. James Barham; his will, proved 9 June 1792, Southampton Co, mentions da. Martha Harris and Rebecca Holliman, sons Judkins Barham, Timothy Thorp Barham; son-in-law, William Holliman.
1.3.2.3.1. Martha Barham, m. Joel Harris, son of John Harris and Avis Holleman.
1.3.2.3.1.1. Sarah Harris, m. William Middleton.
1.3.3. Mary Thorpe, m. (1) Edward Harris, son of Edward Harris, son of Thomas Harris, d. 1688.
1.3.1.1. Hardy Harris.
1.3.1.2. Lewis Harris, m. Sarah Thorpe.
1.2. Robert Thorpe.
1.2.1. Timothy Thorpe.
1.2.2. Hannah Thorpe, m. Joseph Delk, son of Roger Delk, and sister of Lucinda Delke, wife of Benjamin Lancaster, grandson of Samuel Lancaster and Elizabeth Harris, da. of John Harris, d. 1687.

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THE UNBORN CHILD OF THOMAS HARRIS, D. 1730. BY MARJORIE REAGAN:

“The unborn child was Thomas Harris who himself died in Granville County, North Carolina, intestate in 1761. Theophilus Goodwin was administrator of the 1761 estate which named Thomas’s orphan Solomon and “the widow” Harris. Much circumstantial evidence is convincing that Theophilus Goodwin was the father of Thomas’s wife. Theophilus was married to Elizabeth Wyche, a daughter of George Wyche, son of Henry Wyche.

A 1753 indenture between Thomas and Joshua Harris gives proof that both were heirs of Thomas Harris who died in 1730. The scanned pages of Southampton County, Virginia’s records are online and can be found at “Brantley Association of America, Southampton Records.” This deed is recorded in Deed Book 1, 1749-1753, pages 466-468. On January 25, 1753, Thomas Harris of Granville, North Carolina sold to Joshua Harris of Southampton County, Virginia, his (Thomas’s) part of 290 acres in Southampton “granted to Thomas Harris the elder by patent bearing date at Williamsburg the 24th day of March 1725 and by the said Thomas Harris in his last will and testament bearing the date the 25th day of December 1729 given unto Thomas Harris aforesaid and bounded as in the said patent and will is expressed including all the said Thomas Harris’s part of the said 290 acres of land containing by estimation 100 acres more or less.” Thomas Harris, legal signature. Witnesses John Person, Joshua Claud, Moses Sharp, Session Blake. The deed was proved in the Court of Southampton March 8, 1753 by the oaths of the same four men. Thomas the elder’s grant is recorded in Virginia Land Patent Book No. 12, page 440

Also, on the Brantley Association News Page is the following discovery they made about the widow Hannah Harris. “Learning after 50 years of research that Hannah who married John Brantley of Granville and Chatham Co, N.C. was the widow of Thomas Harris who died in 1730, in Granville County, N.C. We have often supposed that she was a Harris, but had no idea that instead, she had married a Harris”.

1. William Harris, m. Dorothy Westbrooke, 31 Aug. 1562, in Wiveliscombe, Somerset; of a kinship circle which included families of Bodie and Fort.

1.1. Richard Harris, m. (8 Oct. 1594), Eleanor Bennet, sister of (a) Thomas Bennett, who had issue: (1) Thomas Bennett, b. Nov. 11, 1603 at Wiveliscombe, father of Alice Bennett, who m. John Hardy. Nugent, C&P vol. 1, p. 569; their da., Lucy, m. Hodges Council; her sister m. Richard Jackson, their da., Mary Jackson, m. Capt. George Hardy, appraiser of the estate of Edward Harris, d. 1677. (2) Richard Bennett, bapt. 6 Aug. 1609, Governor of Virginia. (b) Edward Bennett. Christopher Reynolds Sr. emigrated to Virginia as an indentured servant of Mr. Edward Bennett. Bk. 1, pp. 46-8, “Imprimis: I give and bequeath unto my son Christopher Reynolds Jr. all my land on the southerly side of the Freshest swamp that Richard Jordan (his son-in-law who m. da. Elizabeth Reynolds) now liveth upon”.

1.1.1. William Harris, bapt. 28 Jan. 1595. He may have been the William Harris, headright of John Moone in IOW, in 1637 – the Fulgham connection.

1.1.2. Richard Harris.

1.1.2.1. John Harris, bapt. 18 Feb. 1624; probably d. 1687, Virginia, m. Unity. He was the second-cousin of Richard Bennett, Governor of Virginia, whose first wife, Anne, was Charles Barham’s sister. He may have been the John Harris, headright in 1653 of Benjamin Brasseur, who bought a large tract of land from Richard Bennett.

1.1.2.1.1. John Harris. On 9 Nov. 1708, Samuel Lancaster was granted the administration of the estate of John Harris, his probable brother-in-law. Did John Harris have issue?

1.1.2.1.2. Elizabeth Harris, m. Samuel, son of Robert Lancaster Sr. and Sarah, widow of her 2nd husband, Richard Bennett Sr., d. 1710.

1.1.2.1.2.1. Robert Lancaster, m. Martha.

1.1.2.1.2.1.1. Benjamin Lancaster 1724-1793, m. Lucinda Delke, da. of Roger Delke.

1.1.2.1.2.1.2. Catherine Lancaster, m. Joseph Crocker; Will R. 5 Feb. 1761, appraised by Thomas Holliman. Joseph Crocker was the son of William Crocker, Will dated 27 Oct. 1729 in IOW, son of Robert Cocker*, who witnessed his son’s will (W.B. 3, pp. 179-180. 24 Sep. 1750: Southampton Co. Will of Robert Crocker names sons Benjamin*, Moses & Arthur; grandson Elisha Crocker; daus. Elizabeth Jordan, Sarah Braswell, & Mary Middleton; housekeeper Mary Hill. Wit: William Bynum, John Jones, Alexander Watson. Rec. 8 Nov. 1750. W.B. I, p. 19. William Bynum was the son of a namesake, who witnessed the will of his father-in-law John Fort on 21 October 1724 in Surry Co. In 1730, he witnessed Mary Fort’s discharge of dower in land conveyed by her husband, John Fort, Jr. to Davis Hopper on the Moratock in Bertie Precinct. (Bertie Co. D.B. C, p. 252). On 3 December 1744, William Bynum bought 300 ac. from Thomas Drake in Edgecombe Co. on the upper side of Fishing Creek. William Bynum Sr. was the brother of James Bynhum, whose land was adjacent. Robert Crocker’s estate was appraised by William Bynum, John Harris, and Arthur Long.** R. 10 Jan. 1750.

Who was this John Harris?

Mary Crocker m. William Bynum Jr, 13 Jan. 1762, Southampton Co., da. of *Benjamin Crocker and Sarah Barrow, who may have been related to Samuel Crocker, who m. (25 Dec. 1777) Anne Hollman, da. of Arthur Holliman.

Anne Hollman may have been related to Avis Holliman, who m. John Harris, whose will of 1771 was witnessed by Arthur Holliman.

1.1.2.1.2.1.3. Martha Lancaster, m. John Holliman, son of Christopher Holliman, Jr. 25 Sept. 1739: From Christopher Holliman of Bartee precinct, North Carolina, and John Holliman of Newport parish in IOW, to Arthur Crocker of Newport Parish in IOW … 300 ac. on the E. side the main Swamp in Newport Parish. (D. B. 5, p. 143).

1.1.2.1.2.2. Unity Lancaster, m. Thomas Betts, whose estate was appraised by Henry Lancaster, Abraham Jones, and William Harris, and recorded 6 May 1773.

Who was William Harris?

John Jones, estate examined by Thomas Pearce and James Watson. R. 2 Aug. 1770. Wit: Thomas Betts, Mathew Harris, Robert Wall. Ex. Benjamin Bailey.

How were William and Matthew Harris related?

1.1.2.1.2.3. Mary Lancaster, m. William Drake, son of Richard Drake, Will probated 13 Sept. 1759. To his sons Francis Drake, Matthew Drake, Nathaniel Drake, Tristram Drake, William Drake, and Brittin … To his daughter Martha Williams, wife of Jacob Williams. Wit. Thomas Gray, Benjamin Williams, and Mathew Williams. March 1762: Ordered that the following persons lay off road leading out of the road that crosses Swift Creek at the Bridge near Rickman’s store between the store and Greens Path and then near the Plumb Tree Bottom … William Braswell, Francis Jones, Thos. Williams, Jacob Braswell, Joseph Sumner, Mathew Drake, Nath’l Drake.

**Arthur Long’s estate was appraised by William and John Blount, and Cordall Norfleet. R. 8 June 1769. He was the son of Arthur Long and Mary, probable da. of ‘Arthur Allen of Bristol, planter’.

Arthur Long also appraised the estate of John Harris, with Cordall Norfleet and Henry Crafford. R. 10 Jan. 1765.

Who was this John Harris?, probably the apraisee of Robert Crocker’s estate in 1751?

Henry Crafford was connected to Harris Taylor: John Chitty orphan of Edward. John Wilkinson guardian bond 8 Mar. 1759 1000 pounds. Henry Crafford and Harris Taylor securities. Chitty Edward – Estate appraised by Simon Pope, John Davis and Joseph Delk. 12 Oct. 1758, p.272.

Harris Taylor was the grandson of William Harris:

Margaret Taylor and William Judkins had issue: 1. Elizabeth Judkins (m. John Berryman) 2. Hannah Judkins (m. Thomas Harris, d. 1730, IOW Co. (was his br. William Harris?), son (I suggest) of Thomas, son of Thomas Harris, d. 1672*, and Alice Newman. Margaret Taylor m. William Harris before 1721; her son, Thomas Taylor, m. his granddau., Mary Harris.

Thomas Harris, Will recorded 13 Nov. 1672, appointed relict Alice as exc. Security John Newman and Edward Brantley.

Edward Brantley Sr. came to America as an indentured servant under John Seaward of Bristol, who received a land patent on 18 June 1638 for 400 ac. in IOW. His son, Phillip Brantley, m. Joyce Lewis, da. of Thomas Lewis and Rebecca George, da. of John George, undoubtedly related to Nicholas George (see earlier notes), father-in-law of Thomas Harris, d. 1672). John George, appraisal by John Brantley, Thomas Hardy, George Riddick, and George Barlow, c. 1711. (B. 2, p. 527).

John Harris, son of Thomas, d. 1672: William Groves, appraisal by John Harris, Edward Brantley, Elias Fort and Edward Grantham; presented by Mrs Elinor Groves,; recorded 9 Feb. 1678. (B. 2, p. 172). John Harris m. a da. of Francis Hobbs, who sold Edward Brantley 675 ac. adj. Thomas Tuke, in 1669.

Thomas Harris, d. 1730: Thomas Harris 290 ac. IOW Maherin River & both sides of Herbert’s Branch adj. Edward Brantley (son of Phillip) and William Simmons line, 24 March 1725. Edward Brantley, John Thorp, and Thomas Purcell appraisers. Thomas names a son, Joshua, in his will, and also an “unborn child wife now goes with”.

Was this unborn child John Harris?

Was John Thorp related to the Thorps, as follows?

Edward Harris Jr. m. Mary Thorpe, da. of a Timothy Thorpe*, their son being Hardy Harris.

William Harris, Will probated 19 April 1721: To wife Margaret. To grandson Harris Taylor. To granddau. Mary, wife of Thomas Taylor. To grandson Harris Taylor, land purchased of Robert Girly. To granddau. Mary, land at her death to her husband Thomas Taylor. At their deaths, to their son Thomas Taylor. Friends Capt. Thomas Holt and William Gray to divide property and overseers of the will. Executor, Thomas Taylor. (W.B 7, p. 325).

Edward Taylor died by early 1708 in Surry Co. In Jan. 1708, administration of his estate was granted to Margaret Taylor; witnessed by William Gray, *Timothy Thorp, and William Harris. (Davis, 127).

At the January Court, Margaret Tayler “administratrix of the estate of Edward Tayler deced being returned arrested at the suit of Robert Crafford being called and not appearing nor any security returned, judgment is therefore granted the said Crafford for L5.6.6.” (Surry Co., B. 6, p. 111).

* Martha Jones of the Parish of St Luke. Leg. – son Timothy Thorp; granddau. Mary Cock Simmons; granddau. Peggy Ridley; granddaus Rebecca Simmons, Martha Ridley, Ann Thorp, Martha Thorp, Temperance Atherton; Polly Person and Martha Person; grandson John Thorp Richardson. Ex. son Timothy Thorp. D. Dec 11, 1780. R. April 12, 1781. Wit Hardy Harris, Sally Jarrell, Sarah Hasty.

Timothy Thorp’s grandau., Mary, m, James Barham, whose will, proved 9 June 1792, Southampton Co, mentions da. Martha Harris and Rebecca Holliman, sons Judkins Barham, Timothy Thorp Barham; son-in-law, William Holliman.

I Timothy Thorp of the Parish of St. Lukes … Item: I give and bequeath to my nephew John Person of William the tract of land lying and being on the Anglica Swamp; probate 27 Jan, 1776, Southampton Co.

Cordall Norfleet was the son-in-law of Michael Bynum:

William Bynum m. Elizabeth Sugars Fort, widow of Elias Fort Jr. She left a will in Southampton Co. proved 3 July 1773, leaving slaves to her sons and dau.: William Bynum, Benjamin Bynum, and Abigail Williamson,and the residual estate to son Michael Bynum. Specific bequests were made to grandson Cordall Norfleet Bynum, son of Cordall Norfleet and Ann Bynum, da. of Michael. Cordall Norfleet was the son of Joseph Norfleet, first-cousin of Marmaduke Norfleet.

1. Thomas Norfleet (m. Ruth Blount) bought adjoining land from Robert Council (NC. Edg. Co. D.B. 1., p. 204), and was mentioned as a neighbour of Robert Council and Thomas Turner (J. Bryan Grimes, Abstracts of North Carolina Wills, p. 17).

1.1. Marmaduke Norfleet.

1.1.1. Elizabeth Norfleet, m. James Harris in Halifax Co, NC., son of: James Harris, Will pr. 10 Jan. 1749

1. Thomas Harris, d. 1688.

1.1. Edward Harris, m. Mary Turner. His Will was pr. 25 March 1734, in IOW Co., witnessed by Thomas Atkinson and John Harris

1.1.1. James Harris, d. 1749 (br. of Edward Harris, father of Hardy Harris), and br.-in-law of Matthew Joyner. 10 Jan. 1749. Feb. Court, 1749. Sons: James (‘my plantation’), Eli (Elias). Wife and Executrix: Cheary (sister of Mathew Joyner). Executor: Mathew Joyner. Witnesses: Wm. Skinner, John Blount, John Crumpton. (J. Bryan Grimes, Abstracts of North Carolina Wills, p. 153). Henry Turner: Feb. Court, 1748: Executor: Matthew Joyner. Witnesses: Matthew Joyner, James Harris, Marmaduke Norfleet. (ibid. p. 382). *Son of Thomas Joyner, Will dated 13 April 1740; the son of Thomas Joyner (br. of Bridgeman Joyner, the guardian of an orphan of Thomas Harris, d. 1688).

1.1.1.1. James Harris, m. Elizabeth Norfleet, in Halifax Co, NC, the da. Marmaduke Norfleet, son of Thomas Norfleet, as above.

1.1.1.1.1. James Harris, m. (1) Temperance Williams: Martha Joyner witnessed the will of Temperance Williams, wife of James. 1783: Halifax NC. Will of Temperance Harris names daus: Pharaby Harris, Mary Harris, Sally Harris, Elizabeth Harris; son James Harris; son-in-law Norfleet Harriss (step-son). Witnesses: Elisha Dixon, Martha Joyner. Pheraby Harris.

The Drakes came from South Petherton, Somerset. the first on record being John Drake, a plaintiff with Thomas Bisse in the case of Bisse v Cable. C 2/JasI/B14/65. 1603-1625.

1. Richard Drake, serge maker, of South Petherton, Somerset, m. Thomazine. on 6 Sept. 1658, they indentured themselves to Andrew Ball, mariner, in Bristol, in return for transportation.

1.1. Thomas Drake, b. 1650, South Petherton, m. Sarah.

1.1.1. Richard Drake, b. 1696; d. 1759, Southampton Co. Will recorded W.B. 1, p. 313. He patented land in IOW in 1717, and in 1746 he received other patents, see Bertie Co, D.B. B, p. 132, D, p. 245; E, p. 52.

1.1.1.1. William Drake, b. December 1731; d. 1801, Nash Co., N.C., m. Mary Lancaster.

1.1.2. John Drake. born 1695, d. 1729 in Bertie Co. He m. Sarah Bryant in 1725, da. of James Bryant, and sister of Eleanor Bryant, wife of Richard Braswell, Mary Bryant, wife of Richard Sumner; and (paternal) half-sister of Robert Bryant, who had issue: Lewis Bryant, who m. Celia Holliman on 18 Nov, 1776 in Johnston, NC.; Arpey Bryant, who m. Richard Holleman on 8 Jan. 1768, in Johnston; Elizabeth Bryant, who m. James Grantson Holliman (the probable son of Samuel and his wife, Elizabeth Jones), on 16 Apr. 1772, in Johnston. In 1725, John Drake purchased land in Bertie Precinct from John Tiney, adj. to land of Thomas Drake, probably his brother. John Drake …

1.2. John Drake, born 1647 in South Petherton. He m. Jemima Parnell in 1675, and patented land in IOW in 1682. Will of Thomas Parnell, cooper, dated 10 Oct. 1687; proved 9 June 1688: Sons Thomas, Joseph; dau. Susanna; 3 daus; my children shall be brought up in the fear of the Lord and to learne to wright and reade; Sister Jemima Drake. My cloth coate or hayre camlett coat to Mr. John Fulgeham; John Drake; Joane Johnson; cozen John Williams; cousen Sarah Williams to have my dau. Jane’s best suit of apparell.

1.2.1. John Drake, b. 1680.

1.2.1.1. Richard Drake, patented land in IOW; and in 1727 he witnessed the will of Mary Bodie.

A collection of cousins, almost indivisible.

Thomas Harris, d. 1672, a big slice of the cake.

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It was Mr. Riddell who first poured icy water on the proposition that “Gilberto de Hameldun Clerico” (a monk of low order), named in a confirmation charter of Paisley of 1272, was the ancestor of the ducal Hamiltons; he did so with heavy and justifiable sarcasm.

Chasing deeds concerning the Hamiltons may just be chasing forgeries.

Boiled down for simplicity:

It would be a remarkable occurrence by the kinship system operating at the time if Walter FitzGilbert de Hamilton was not a son of Gilbert de Colville, shown in the Writs of Military Service of 1292 in Scotland as Gilbertus Coleville, a son of Walter de Colville; of a family well established in Scotland, and which were kin of the Comyns and Umframvilles. He was given the confiscated lands of the former family, and his descendants used the armorial bearings of the latter.

1. Gilbert Crispin I.
2. Gilbert Crispin II., Seigneure de Tillières.
3. Gilbert Crispin III., m. Hersende de Brezolles; enfeoffed in Armentières.
2. William Crispin/Colville I. (ob. ante 1084), m. Eve de Montfort, sister of Simon I de Montfort L’Amaury (W. Frolich, trsl., The Letters of Anselme of Canterbury, 1990-1994, nos. 22, 98, 118, and 147).
3. Wlliam Crispin II. m. Agnes Mauvoisin.
4. Philip de Coleville, of Heton and Oxenhame, in the county of Roxburgh, Scotland.
5. Thomas de Colville (cognomento ‘the Scot’), obit. 1219, Constable of Dumfries Castle. Thomas de Colville, the constable of Dumfries Castle, gave land in Galloway to Vaudey Abbey, to pray for the souls of dead Scottish Kings.The fact that a Lincolnshire Abbey received land in Galloway for the souls of Scottish Kings is only explicable because of the existence of an aristocratic family with members in both kingdoms (G. Barrow, The Anglo-Norman Era in Scottish History, 1980). The network of relations was vitally important, providing support in times of need, and promotion when influence permitted. The family of de Colville, although geographically dispersed, was a powerful political entity.
6. John de Colville, of Oxnam. (Melrose Liber, t. ii., 400, p. 363).
7. William de Colville, of Spindlestone; ‘avus suus dominus Johannes de Coluille’ was succeeded by ‘filius suus legitimus Willelmus’, who married ‘filiam domini Johanis de Normanville’, whose family held Normanton in Rutland before the Umframvilles.
8. Thomas de Colville, ob. ante 1280 (Melrose Liber, t. ii., 400, p. 363).
9. Robert de Colville, d. bef. Apr. 2, 1341, m. Katerina (The Scots Peerage, Vol. II, edited by Sir James Balfour Paul, p. 539).
10. Robert de Colville, obit. c. 1397.
11. Thomas de Colville, ob. ante February 4, 1403, born in Formartine, Aberdeenshire, m. Margaret Lindsay, dau. of James de Lindsay and Margaret Keith, dau. of Sir William Keith and Margaret Fraser. Margaret Keith’s sister, Janet Keith, m. Sir David Hamilton of Cadzow, 3rd Laird of Cadzow (c. 1330–1390), son of David FitzWalter (FitzGilbert) of Cadzow. David Hamilton was the first of the family recorded as formally using the surname Hamilton, appearing in a writ of 1375 as ‘David de Hamylton, son and heir of David FitzWalter’.
4. Thomas de Coleville, m. Matilda d’Aubigny, probably a close relative of Roger (d’Aubigny) de Mowbray, his overlord. (Thomas de Coleville was the ancestor of the Stanhopes).
5. Philip de Colville, held land in Thimbleby and Sigston, Yorkshire. He m. Engelisa, dau. and heir of Robert Ingram, a tenant of the Brus fee in Heslerton.
6. William de Colville, m. Maud d’Albini (Brito), dau. of Ralph d’Albini (Brito). William held one night’s fee of Robert de Gand in Lincs., husband of Gunnora d’Albini (Brito), Maud’s sister. Ralph d’Albini (Brito) was the uncle of William Albini I. (Brito), who m. Matilda, the dau. of Odonel de Umframville (grandfather of Gilbert de Umframville I.) whose family armorial was gules, 3 cinque foils or.
7. William de Colville, m. Beatrice de Stuteville. Her sister, Alice de Stuteville, m. Roger de Merlay, son of Ralph de Merlay, Lord of Morpeth, Northumberland, and Juliana of Dunbar, dau. of Gospatric II. of Dunbar. Roger de Merlay and Alice de Stuteville had issue: Roger de Merlay, who m. Margery de Umframville, dau. of Richard Umframville, and sister of Gilbert de Umframville I.
8. Roger de Colville of Bytham Castle, Lincolnshire,
9. Walter de Colville, m. … d’ Albini Brito, of Aubourn and Counthorpe, Lincs., dau. of Odenel d’ Albini Brito, son of William d’Albini Brito I. and Matilda, dau of Odonel de Umframville.
10. Roger de Colville, son of Walter de Colville, m. Margaret de Braose, dau. of RIchard de Braose, whose br., William, m. Mary de Ros. William de Ros was the father of Alice de Ros, who m. John Comyn (Lincoln Assize Rolls,’Lincoln N.& Q.’vol. ix., p. 250), whose cousin and namesake’s lands were given to Walter FitGilbert (de Hamilton).
10. Gilbert de Colville. The Writs of Military Service show (1292) “Gilbertus Coleville” performing military service in Scotland ‘due from Gilbertus de Neville’, his kinsman, through the Merlays, and a man of the Gands in Lincolnshire.
11. Walter FitzGilbert de Hamilton. He first appears in January 10, 1295, as a witness to a charter by James, the High Steward of Scotland. Robert de Brus granted to Walter Fitz-Gilbert the whole tenement of Machan which belonged to John Comyn in 1320. It was a medieval ‘norm’ to give forfeited lands to a member of the ‘disgraced’ family. John Comyn was the cousin of his namesake, husband of Alice de Ros. ‘The earliest representation of the Hamilton arms appears on the Bute Mazer were Gules, three cinquefoils ermine, presumably for Walter FitzGilbert and is accompanied by Gules, a chevron ermine between three cinquefoils for brother John (obit. 1328). ‘(A) sensible proposition is that they were kin, or vassals of the Umfraville lords of Redesdale and the earls of Angus’ (Bruce A. McAndrew, Scotland’s Historic Heraldry, p. 235, 2006).
3. Robert de d’Armentières, held Whatton of Gilbert de Gand. Domesd. tom. i. fol. 56 b.
4. William de Whatton, progenitor of the families of Newmarch and Wormley.

1. Gilbert de Gand I, overlord of the Armentieres family of Whatton.
1.1. Hugh de Gand, m. Adeline de Beaumont, dau. of Robert de Beaumont, Count of Meulan, 1st Earl of Leicester
1.1.1. Gilbert de Gand, 1st earl of Lincoln, obit. c. 1156, m. Rohese de Clare, dau. of Richard de Clare.
1.1.2. Robert de Gand, m. Gunnora de Albini Brito, dau. of Ralph de Albini Brito (English Baronies’, I. J. Sanders, OUP, 2nd ed, 1963); she m. (2), Nicholas de Stuteville. A sister of Gunnora de Albini Brito, Maud, m. William de Colville. William held one night’s fee of Robert de Gand in Lincs, his br.-in-law. William de Colville agreed to pay the king a fine of 20 mares and one palfrey, to have seisin of Normanton, Rutland, held in chief by the de Umframvilles.
1.1.2.1. Gilbert de Gand, Earl of Lincoln, obit. 1241, father of Juliana de Gand, who m. Geoffrey d’Armentières, son of Henry d’Armentières, descendant of Robert de d’Armentières.

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c

The ancestry of the Harris family of Wiveliscombe, intermarried with the family of Governor Bennett of Virginia takes on a new understanding when an accurate transcription of the name of the wife of William Harris is given; instead of West it should read Westbrooke. Immediately, the kinship network of his family is revealed, which exhibits a very close and repeated affinity to the Bennett family through kin intermarrying into such families as the Stevens. Other members of this kinship group include the Hill family (thus a familial connection is established to the Symes family of Mells), and a family of Forte, which was probably the same one connected to the son of Thomas Harris, d. 1672, as I have previously shown.

The Symes family were kin of the Hodges through intermarriage with the Bluets, and the Lancaster family, Squires of Cheddar, who also held land in Wiveliscombe, were kin of the Hodges through intermarriage with with the family of Rose. Hodges Council, the very likely son of Richard Council, the br.-in-law of Susan Lancaster, may have received his Christian name after her husband, William Hodges, a member of the very influential Hodges family, Squires of Wedmore, who was probably his Godfather.

Robert Lancaster of Virginia was probably a son of his namesake, of Bruton, 20 mls. from Cheddar, and a member of the Lancaster family of that place.

The Brantleys, as follow, married into the family of Hodges Council.

WIVELISCOMBE

1.
1.1. William Harris, m. Dorothy Westbrooke, 31 Aug. 1562. Her br., Henry, m. Joan Upham, of one of the major families of Wiveliscombe, intermarried with such as the Boddys (they with the Briantes), Newtons, and Hills. Her sister, Joan Westbroke, m. John Clowter, 23 Sep. 1559, who m. (2) Agnes Lovell, 7 Feb. 1568, whose niece, Alice, m. Robert Forte, 8 Aug. 1605.

The Lovells intermarried with the Dales, and they with the Persons; and so on in a repetitive cycle of marriages within a densely interbred kinship group.

Nynehead (Somerset) deeds (Somerset Heritage Centre, ref. DD\SF/1767), show the Clowters associates: Lease for 90 yrs. & 3 lives: Francis Drewe of Holcombe Rogus, Devon, esq., Henry Worth of Worth in Washfield, Devon & John Ayshford of Ayshford, yeoman, to Edward Bickley, Humphrey Wyott, John Prowse, John Clowter & Will Weeks, Church house in Nynehead, to hold in trust for parishioners of N., 1649.

These Westbrookes probably migrated to Virginia: Westbrook, John – appraisal by Nathaniel Ridley, Edward Brantley and Thomas Cook; signed by John Person, 28 Oct. 1734. (B. 4, p. 25). He m. Amy Foster, da. of Christopher Foster and Alice Forte.

1.1.1. Richard Harris, m. (8 Oct. 1594), Eleanor Bennet, sister of (1) Thomas Bennett, who had issue: (1) Thomas Bennett, b. Nov. 11, 1603 at Wiveliscombe, father of Alice Bennett, who m. John Hardy. Nugent, C&P vol. 1, p. 569; their da., Lucy, m. Hodges Council; her sister m. Richard Jackson, their da., Mary Jackson, m. Capt. George Hardy, appraiser of the estate of Edward Harris, d. 1677. (2) Richard Bennett, bapt. 6 Aug. 1609, Governor of Virginia. (2) Edward Bennett. Christopher Reynolds Sr. emigrated to Virginia as an indentured servant of Mr. Edward Bennett. Bk. 1, pp. 46-8, “Imprimis: I give and bequeath unto my son Christopher Reynolds Jr. all my land on the southerly side of the Freshest swamp that Richard Jordan (his son-in-law who m. da. Elizabeth Reynolds) now liveth upon”, see as follows.
1.1.1.1. William Harris, bapt. 28 Jan. 1595. Peter Bell was a headright of Thomas Harris in IOW in 1652 (for land adj. John Davis (of the family of Rice Davis, as follows), to whom Edward Harris (d. 1677), was in debt, and Richard Bell was a headright, in 1648, of George Hardy and Thomas Wombwell in IOW. It was very probably this family of Wombwell which intermarried with the Lancasters.
1.1.1.2. Richard Harris.
1.1.1.2.1. John Harris, bapt. 18 Feb. 1624; probably d. 1687, Virginia, m. Unity. He was the second-cousin of Richard Bennett, Governor of Virginia, whose first wife, Anne, was Charles Barham’s sister, see as follows.
1.1.1.2.1.1. John Harris. On 9 Nov. 1708, Samuel Lancaster was granted the administration of the estate of John Harris, his probable brother-in-law.

(A circumstantial case could be made for the following John Harris to be a son of John Harris, d. 1708, and he the father of the John Harris who m. Avis Holloman:
1.1.1.2.1.1.1. John Harris. B. 4 p. 459. R. 25 April 1743: John Moreland: Estate appraised by Thomas Day, Thomas Shelly, Thomas Barlow. John Shelly of the Upper Parish. Will recorded 27 June 1720. Legatee brother Thomas Shelly exce; Elizabeth Ogburne; dishes at John Harris’; son John Phillips Shelly. Witness George Riddick and John Brantley. (G.B. 35).
1.1.1.2.1.1.1.1. John Harris, d. 1772 in Southampton Co., m. Avis Holloman.
1.1.1.2.1.1.2.1.1. Joel Harris, m. Martha Barham, da. of James Barham and Mary Thorpe, and granddau. of Charles Barham and Sarah Judkins. Yet, Elizabeth Harris, sister of John, d. 1708, was the aunt of William Lancaster, whose son was closely associated with the sons of Robert Harris, d. 1639 (son of Thomas Harris, d. 1688), whose will named his sons – Robert, John, Michael, Charles, Joseph, James and Mathew; and the John Harris who m. Avis Holloman may have been Robert’s son, John. There was clearly a very close association between the families of John Harris, d. 1687, and of Thomas Harris, d. 1688).

1.1.1.2.1.2. Elizabeth Harris, m. Samuel, son of Robert Lancaster Sr. and Sarah, widow of her 2nd husband, Richard Bennett Sr., d. 1710. Robert Lancaster Sr’s son, Robert Jr., was the father of William Lancaster, who m. (1) … Moreland, (2) … Wombwell. William Lancaster was the father of Lawrence Lancaster, d. 1792, Warren Co., who m. Mary Williams. 9 May 1751, Lawrence Lancaster of IOW in Nottoway Parish and Solomon Delke of same place to divide sd. land that formerly did belong to Edward Moreland, decd; we pledge in sum of 50 pounds … quanity of land falling to Solomon Delke is 85 ac.; wit: Thomas Pretlow, Robert Lancaster, Samuel Lancaster, Joseph Pittman, Arthur Williams. Robert Lancaster Jr’s sister m. Thomas Pittman.
1.1.1.2.1.2.1. Robert Lancaster, m. Martha.
1.1.1.2.1.2.1.1. Benjamin Lancaster 1724-1793, m. Lucinda Delke, da. of Roger Delke and Patsy Moorland. Will of Roger Delke of Surry Co., recorded April 27 1773: Richard Hardy, Charles Cary executor., names daus. Ann Allan, Lucy Lancaster, son William Delke.
1.1.1.2.1.2.1.2. Catherine Lancaster, m. Joseph Crocker; Will R. 5 Feb. 1761, appraised by Thomas Holleman whose da. Mary, m. William Williford – Meglohon, James, Bertie, July 4th, 1750 ; Sept. 4th, 1750. Wife Margaret, her former husband Jonathan Kittrell, son James, son-in- law William Roads, son-in-law Christopher Holloman, son-in-law Samuel Holloman, da. Alice Meglohon. In 1784, Belah Williford, Jesse Holloman, John Holloman, and Jesse Crocker witnessed the will of Henry Lancaster, of IOW.
1.1.1.2.1.2.1.3. Henry Lancaster, m. Martha.
1.1.1.2.1.2.1.4. Martha Lancaster, m .John Holliman, son of Christopher  Holliman, Jr. IOW, D. B. 5, p. 347. 20 July 1739: From Mary Procter and Peter Procter of IOW to Arthur Crocker … about 300 ac. on the N. side of the main Swamp in IOW, bounded by the mouth of the Fishing Branch, John Holiman, Sam’ll Taylor. Wit. Thos Atkinson, John Holliman, Peter Stephenson, William Crocker. 25 Sept. 1739: From Christopher Holliman of Bartee precinct, North Carolina, and John Holliman of Newport parish in IOW, to Arthur Crocker of Newport Parish in IOW … 300 ac. on the E. side the main Swamp in Newport Parish … bounded by the mouth of the Fishing Branch, the head of the Miery Branch, John Holliman, Samuel Taylor. S. Christopher Holliman, John Holliman. Wit. Arthur Hayes, Mathew Jones, John Wombell, Chris. Atkinson. (ibid., p. 413). D. B. 7, p.13, 28 Jan. 1744: John Proctor of IOW to Roger Delk of Surry Co. 140 ac. on the S. side of the main Blackwater Swamp (being land taken up by said Proctor on 12 Feb. 1742) adj. John Holliman, Thomas Holliman, Benjamin Pitman, Joseph Griffin, and Robert Mercer. Wit. Lawrence Lancaster, Solomon Delk, and Joseph Griffin. D. B. 8, p. 64, 10 March 1747: Arthur Crocker to William Parker 100 ac. on the North side of Blackwater Swamp adj. Proctors Ferry, John Holliman and Taylor. Wit. John Woodward, Thomas Betts, and Benjamin Lancaster. John Holliman: Leg. son Jesse; son Jeddia; son Christopher; daughter Mary. Wife: Elizabeth, Extx. R. June 6, 1751. Wit: William Gwaltney. Could Martha Lancaster and John Holloman be the parents of Avis Holloman?
1.1.1.2.1.2.2. Unity Lancaster, m. Thomas Betts, whose estate was appraised by Henry Lancaster, Abraham Jones, and William Harris, and recorded 6 May 1773. John Jones, estate xamined by Thomas Pearce and James Watson. R. 2 Aug. 1770. Wit: Thomas Betts, Mathew Harris, Robert Wall. Ex. Benjamin Bailey.
1.1.1.2.1.2.3. Mary Lancaster, m. William Drake.

LANCASTER AND HARRIS IN MORE DEPTH

1. Robert Lancaster, Will registered 23 May 1720. Witnesses: James Piland, Benjamin Hodges, and Roger Ingram, appraisal by John Brantley, Richard Gray, and Benjamin Hodges, recorded 27 June 1720.
1.1. Robert Lancaster, d. 1783, m. Judith Pitt (maternally Clary). Thomas Clary: Leg.- niece Judith, wife of Robert Lancaster, Jr., pewter dishes.To Charles Pitt, 20 shillings.To Charles Williams, 530 lbs. tobacco. All rest of estate to brother, Wm. Clary and sister, Ann Pitt. Nephew, Edward Brown, Exer. 25 Sept. 1707. Wit:Thomas Holt, Joseph John Jackman. (B. 5, p. 378). Ann Pitt, a sister in the Will of Thomas Clary (1687), had a da. named Judith who was a servant to Charles Jarrett until she was 18 years of age.
1.1.1. Joseph Lancaster, m. Mary Cox before 16 Sept. 1745, when they sold the 150 ac. platation left to him by his father to Richard Presson of York Co., being a larger tract bought of Robert Lancaster, dec’d, father of the said Joseph Lancaster, from John Allen, dec’d, on 19 August 1712, and willed to the said Joseph, 16 September 1746. (D.B. 2, p. 90).
1.1.2. William Lancaster was willed his grandfather Lancaster’s plantation on Blackwater Swamp. His wife, Mary, was given the administration of his estate on 21 Jan.1740. D.B. 2, p. 8: To Joseph Delke, 100 ac. bounded by the Green Swamp, Thomas Moreland, Thomas Holt, and John Kea, being a tract of land given to said Lancaster by his grandfather Robert Lancaster, dated 13 October 1735. W: William Seward and John Edwards. D.B. 3, p. 10: To Joseph Holloman … ac. bounded by Blackwater Swamp, Thomas White, and John Champion, being land sold on 20 August 1712 by John Allen, Gent., to Robert Lancaster, the grandfather of the sd. William and has an incombrence on the said moiety of the said dower of Elizabeth Moring now the wife of John Moring, dated 17 January 1758. W. Charles Holt, Thomas Wilson, Joseph Lancaster, and Arthur Holloman. William Lancaster (nephew of Elizabeth Harris), m. 1. (I suggest) … Moorland, 2. Mary Wombwell. Inventory: recorded 21 Jan. 1740. Appraised by William Rose.
1.1.2.1. Lawrence Lancaster, d. 1792 in Warren Co., NC., m. Mary Williams. He was associated with the children of Robert Harris (and Anne Fulgham), and Daniel Harris (and Jane Jordan), descendants of Thomas Harris, d. 1688.

Daniel Harris bought 150 ac. on the south side of Little Fishing Creek from William Bobbitt in 1754.
Granville District, NC, vol. 2, p. 378: R. 14 March 1760: Charles Harris 450 ac. in Granville Co. in the Parish of St. John on the branches of Aaron’s Creek, joining Jones Corner and Wades line or: Signed, Charles Harris. Wit. William Hurst, Lawrence Lancaster, James Yancey.
Bute [Warren] Co., NC. Abstracts. Book A, p. 77. R. 23 Jan. 1765: Lawrence Lancaster to Len Henley … sold 330 ac. on Fishing Creek, Elbe’s Branch, where I now live adj. West Harris, Lewis Patterson, William Rowland, John Burch. Wit: Samuel Lancaster, Briton Harris, and John Lancaster. Proved by Briton Harris.
Warren Co. Court Minutes, 17 Feb. 1780, p. 16: Ordered that Matthew Harris be overseer of the road form the Fork of Bobbitt’s Road to the Creek below Nathaniel Harris, and the hand of Lawrence Lancaster, Joseph Harris, Charles Harris, James Harris, John Lancaster, Nathaniel Harris, Lawrence Lancaster Jr., Joel Lancaster, and Sterling Harris. Clear and keep the same in repair.
28 Aug. 1792, ibid., p. 230: 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 Executors.
November Court 1792, Warren Co., p. 183: Lawrence Lancaster, estate proved on oaths of James Harris and Morris Harris: Lawrence Lancaster, Jr. William Lancaster and John Lancaster qualified as executors … Sale of estate Laurence Lancaster, deceased, by James Moss, deputy sheriff. Buyers: Mrs. Lancaster, widow; Caleb Capps, John Davis, Reaps Duke, Hardy Duke, Benjamin E. Person, Aaron Lancaster, Mathew Harris, Samuel Williford, Isham Patterson, Philemon Bonnet, Leonard Kimball, Jesse Person, Randolph Bobbitt, Hezekiah Brier, Edward Worsham, William Kemp, Col. William Johnson, William Lancaster Jr., John Lancaster, James Lealer, Laurence Lancaster, William Rowland, Moses Bennett, Josiah Green, Lewis Bartholomew, Samuel Williams, Joshua Bobbitt, James Harris, Brittain Williford, Honorius Powell, James Johnson, Simon Harris, Clairborne Harris, Richard Madera, Joel Lancaster, Daniel Harris.

Will of James Harris, Sr., 10 April 1800, proved in November Court, named sons Claiborn and James Extrs; Book 11, p. 44. To son Claiborne, half my land, to be laid off on the upper part of the tract next to John Egerton, and part of which he has sold by my consent to his brother James … To son James Harris – the other half of my land … Daughter Celah Bobbitt. Wit: James Frame, William Miller. 20 March 1801; Aug. Ct. Henry Harris to William Malone. Mortgage on a negro to secure debt to James Frame & Co. of 40 Pds. Va. money.
James Harris Sr., son of Robert Harris, m. Mary Cole Claiborne in 1753, in Granville, NC. Their son was James Henry Harris, born 1758, who m. Mary Smilley, born in 1767, in Warren County, NC.

1.1.3. Joseph lancaster. Elizabeth Ellis (da. of Benjamin Ellis and Elizabeth Rogers, da. of William Rogers, whose Will was probated in Surry Co. on 17 May 1727, mentioning William, “son of my former wife”, and children: Benjamin, Robert, Elizabeth Ellis, Mary Bennett, Sarah Bennett (wife of Robert Lancaster?), and Priscilla Proctor.
1.2. Samuel Lancaster, m. Elizabet Harris.

THOMAS OF 1672

1.1.1.3. Thomas Harris, m. Judith Blake, 20 Nov. 1623. Cousin of Richard Bennett, Governor of Virginia, and probably he who d. in Virginia in 1672. B. 5, p. 224: Henry Baker deceased, estate dated 27 April 1701. Witnesses: Robert Lancaster Sr., Nicholas Sessoms, whose da. was Mary Blake, wife of William Blake. Richard Bennett’s first wife was Anne, who was Charles Barham’s sister (see Douglas Richardson, ‘Plantagenet Ancestry’). Mr. Charles Barham Ex., Thomas Harris (d. 1672) and Thomas Tuke overseers, were officers of the will of William Ridley, who was probably the br. of Elizabeth Ridley, Charles Barham’s wife. The Tukes descended from a Holleman heiress. Thomas Harris, Will recorded 13 Nov. 1672, appointed relict Alice as exc. Security John Newman and *Edward Brantley.

Edward Brantley Sr. came to America as an indentured servant under John Seaward of Bristol who received a land patent on 18 June 1638 for 400 ac. in IOW. His son, Phillip Brantley, m. Joyce Lewis, da. of Thomas Lewis and Rebecca George, da. of John George. John George, appraisal by John Brantley, Thomas Hardy, George Riddick, and George Barlow, c. 1711. (B. 2, p. 527).
1.1.1.3.1. John Harris. William Groves, appraisal by John Harris, *Edward Brantley, Elias Fort and Edward Grantham; presented by Mrs Elinor Groves,; recorded 9 Feb. 1678. (B. 2, p. 172). John Harris m. a da. of Francis Hobbs, who sold Edward Brantley 675 ac. adj. Thomas Tuke, in 1669.
1.1.1.3.2. Thomas Harris.
1.1.1.3.2.1. Thomas Harris, appraisal by Edward Brantley (son of Phillip Brantley), John Thorpe, and Thomas Purcell, 22 Feb. 1730; m. Hannah Judkins, whose mother remar. to William Harris before 1721, see as follows.

TUKE/PITTMAN/JUDKINS

1. William Tucke, m. Christian Holman, 18 July 1571, at Barwick, St Mary Magdalene, 27 mls fr. Wedmore.
1.1. Thomas Tucke, m. Mary Collins, 26 Jan. 1604, Barwick.
1.1.1. James Tooke. December 1634, William Lacey leased James Tooke 500 ac. on the east side of Lawne’s Creek; 26 October 1646, James Tooke to Robert Harris, all my right and title to this lease.
1.1.1.1. William Tooke. On 29 November 1672, he testified that his age was 46. William Tooke sold 900 acres of land in IOW Co. on 3 Jan. 1661; land patented by James Tooke, 11 Nov. 1640.
1.1.1.1.1. John Tooke of Surry Co., left a will proved 15 Feb. 1720. He appointed John Parson and William Ezell executors and John Parson, Samuel Sebrell, and James Pyland as trustees.
1.1.1.2. Thomas Tooke, b. c. 1610, m. 1. Avis Mascoll, 7 June 1634, Barwick; 2. Mary. He witnessed the Will of William Ridley, with Thomas Harris, d. 1672
1.1.1.3. Elizabeth Tooke, m. Michael Ezell.
1.1.1.3.1. Elizabeth Ezell, m. John Atkinson Jr., son of John Atkinson and Ann Holman.
1.1.2. Joane Tucke, m. William Penny, 22 Sept. 1588, Barwick.
1.1.2.1. Dorothy Penny, m. William Pitman, 10 Sep 1609 Horsington (St John); 15 mls fr. Barwick.
1.1.2.1.1. Thomas Pitman, of Virginia, b. c. 1614, by his deposition. Thomas Pittman gave his age as “about 70” in a deposition of Nov. 4, 1684. He had at least two sons, Thomas and William, by previous marriages. His first wife was named Frances (cf. D. & W. 1645-71, p. 180); his second, whom he married prior to Oct. 4, 1666, was Mrs. Martha Gwaltney, widow of Thomas Gwaltney, whose first husband was Thomas Atkinson, and who had a son James Atkinson by her first marriage, and at least one son William Gwaltney by the second (cf. D.& W. 1645-71, pp. 281, 299).” apparently had a da. who m. Joseph Wall.  In 1666 Roger Potter of Surry sold “to Thomas Pitman for the use of Joseph Wall, his son in law, 1 black heifer.” In 1671 Joseph and Susan Wall of Surry sold land to Richard Jordan Jr., witnessed Christopher Holliman and Thomas Pittman Jr.

John Wall m. Elizabeth Rowe, 5 Apr. 1627, in Wedmore (St Mary), as a tenant of the Hodges family. 4 Feb. 1664. Prob. of will of Capt Jno. Wall decd. to Elizabeth Wall the relict. Will proved by oaths of Capt. Francis Grey* & Richard Price. *His da., Mary, m. Edward Moreland. She m., secondly, Edward Taylor, Sr., having issue: (a) Hannah Taylor (m. Christopher Clinch). (b) Margaret Taylor (m. 1st., William Judkins and 2nd., Bartlett Moreland). (c) Mary Taylor (m. James Vaughan). In Jan. 1708, administration of Edward Taylor’s estate was granted to Margaret Taylor; witnesses William Gray, Timothy Thorp, William Harris. (Davis, 127). Margaret Taylor and William Judkins had issue: 1. Elizabeth Judkins (m. John Berryman) 2. Hannah Judkins (m. Thomas Harris, d. 1730, IOW Co., son of Thomas, son of Thomas Harris, d. 1672, and Alice Newman. Margaret m. William Harris before 1721, her son Thomas Taylor m. his granddau., Mary Harris. William Harris died in Apr. 1721 in Surry Co.; his Will was probated 19 April 1721. To wife Margaret. To grandson Harris Taylor. To granddau. Mary, wife of Thomas Taylor. To grandson Harris Taylor, land purchased of Robert Girly. To granddaughter Mary, land at her death to her husband Thomas Taylor. At their deaths, to their son Thomas Taylor. Friends Capt. Thomas Holt and William Gray to divide property and overseers of the will. Executor, Thomas Taylor. (W.B 7, p. 325).
1.1.2.1.1.1. Thomas Pittman Jr. m. 3. Elizabeth Lancaster, da. of Robert Lancaster, d. 1720 His second wife was Mary Chambers, da. of William Chambers, and relict of William Holliman. Her mother’s first husband was Richard Jarrett, who d. in 1672, in Surry Co. In 1704, William Holliman’s estate was settled in Surry Co. Mary was called “widow of William Holliman” in court on 2 Jan. 1704. She had at least one son, William Holliman.

THOMAS OF 1688?
1.
1.1. William Harris, m. Dorothy Westbrooke, 31 Aug. 1562, in Wiveliscombe.
1.1.1. Richard Harris, m. 8 Oct. 1594, Eleanor Bennet.
1.1.1.1. William Harris, bapt. 28 Jan. 1595.
1.1.1.2. Richard Harris.
1.1.1.2.1. John Harris, bapt. 18 Feb. 1624; probably d. 1687, Virginia, m. Unity. He was the second-cousin of Richard Bennett, Governor of Virginia, whose first wife, Anne, was Charles Barham’s sister.
1.1.1.2.1.1. John Harris. Nov. 9 1708 – Samuel Lancaster was granted the administration of the estate of John Harris, his probable brother-in-law.
1.1.1.2.1.2. Elizabeth Harris, m. Samuel, son of Robert Lancaster Sr. and Sarah, widow of 2nd husband Richard Bennett Sr., d. 1710.
1.1.1.2.1.2.1. Robert Lancaster, m. Martha.
1.1.1.2.1.2.1.1. Benjamin Lancaster 1724-1793, m. Lucinda Delke, da. of Roger Delke and Patsy Moorland. Will of Roger Delke of Surry Co., recorded April 27 1773: Richard Hardy, Charles Cary executors.
1.1.1.2.1.2.1.2. Catherine Lancaster, m. Joseph Crocker; Will R. 5 Feb. 1761, appraised by Thomas Holleman whose da. Mary, m. William Williford – Meglohon, James, Bertie, July 4th, 1750 ; Sept. 4th, 1750. Wife Margaret, her former husband Jonathan Kittrell, son James, son-in- law William Roads, son-in-law Christopher Holloman, son-in-law Samuel Holloman, da. Alice Meglohon. In 1784, Belah Williford, Jesse Holloman, John Holloman, and Jesse Crocker witnessed the will of Henry Lancaster, of IOW.
1.1.1.2.1.2.2. Unity Lancaster, m. Thomas Betts, whose estate was appraised by Henry Lancaster, Abraham Jones, and William Harris, and registered 6 May 1773. John Jones Examined by Thomas Pearce and James Watson. R. 2 Aug. 1770. Wit: Thomas Betts, Mathew Harris, Robert Wall. Ex. Benjamin Bailey.
1.1.1.3. Thomas Harris, m. Judith Blake, 20 Nov. 1623. Cousin of Richard Bennett, Governor of Virginia, and probably he who d. in Virginia in 1672. B. 5, p. 224: Henry Baker deceased, estate dated 27 April 1701. Witnesses: Robert Lancaster Sr., Nicholas Sessoms, whose da. was Mary Blake, wife of William Blake. Richard Bennett’s first wife was Anne, who was Charles Barham’s sister (see Douglas Richardson, ‘Plantagenet Ancestry’). Mr. Charles Barham Ex., Thomas Harris (d. 1672) and Thomas Tuke overseers, were officers of the will of William Ridley, who was probably the br. of Elizabeth Ridley, Charles Barham’s wife. The Tukes descended from a Holleman heiress. Harris, Thomas – dated 10 Jun 1672 recorded 13 Nov 1672. By will appointed relict Alice as exc. Security John Newman and Edward Brantley.
1.1.1.3.1. John Harris. Groves, William – appraisal by John Harris, *Edward Brantley, Elias Fort and Edward Grantham; presented by Mrs Elinor Groves, ordered 21 Nov. 1677; recorded 9 Feb. 1678. (B. 2, p. 172). John Harris m. a da. of Francis Hobbs, who sold Edward Brantley 675 ac. adj. Thomas Tuke, in 1669.
1.1.1.3.2. Thomas Harris, d. 1688?
1.1.1.3.2.1. Robert Harris.
1.1.1.3.2.2.1. John Harris, m. Avis Holloman?

(Such need not be so. I have documented a Harris family of Wedmore/Cheddar, tenants of the Hodges and Lancaster families, who would have been kin of the Counsell family of Wedmore through intermarriage with the Comers, and very close cousins of the Harris herein given. There remains a possibility that the Thomas Harris who married in Wiveliscombe in 1624 was the father of the Thomas Harris who was bapt. in Cheddar in 1637, and he was the Thomas who d. in 1688. The Lancasters, Squires of Cheddar, and holders of land in Wiveliscombe, may have been the tenurial link).

REYNOLDS/JORDAN

1. Christopher Reynolds Sr. emigrated to Virginia as an indentured servant of Mr. Edward Bennett. Bk. 1, pp. 46-8, Imprimis: I give and bequeath unto my son Christopher Reynolds Jr. all my land on the southerly side of the Freshest swamp that Richard Jordan (his son-in-law who m. da. Elizabeth Reynolds) now liveth upon.
1.1. Richard Reynolds.
1.1.1. Richard Reynolds, m. Elizabeth Sharpe, the da. of Richard Sharpe Sr. Richard Reynolds was the br. of John Reynolds: 11 Mar. 1668, IOW Admin., B. 1, p. 62 – Will of John Reynolds, Legacy: my brother George Rivers; brother Richard; sister Jane; sister Elizabeth Rivers; to Robert Driver; to Elizabeth Rivers’ da. Mary; to my sister Elizabeth Jordan a bill of Robert Clothiers, at her decease to her son Richard Jordan. R. 3 May 1669. Robert Driver: To da. Prudence Jordan … To da. Elizabeth* … grandson William Jordan. Exec: Giles Driver. *Thomas Harris, 650 acs. on the N. side of the head of Puscaticon Cr., Lancaster Co., 23 Aug., 1656, p. 392. Adj. land of Oliver Seger, & opposite an Indian Field, Trans. of 13 pers. inc. Giles Driver. 23 Aug. 1656. Giles Driver m. (1) *Elizabeth Reynolds, (2) Olive Hardy, da. of John Hardy and Alice Bennett, da. of Edward Bennett, baptised February 2, 1577, in Wivelscombe; later of of St Olave, Southwark, London, and Lawn’s Creek, Virginia; brother-in-law of Richard Harris, whose grandson, John Harris, bapt. 18 Feb. 1624; probably d. 1687, Virginia, m. Unity; and whose nephew Thomas Harris,* m. Judith Blake, 20 Nov. 1623. Cousin of Richard Bennett, Governor of Virginia, and probably he who d. in Virginia in 1672. Giles Driver’s mother was a Baynham (Bynum), and his grandmother was a Bailey. Giles Driver’s son, Charles Driver m. Prudence Pitt, da. of John Pitt and Olive Hardy, probable sister of George Hardy, who witnessed the Will of Edward Harris, d. 1677. John Hardy m. 2. Alice Tucker, widow of Arthur Allen. Richard Reynolds and Will Bradshaw witnesses to will of Giles Driver (son-in-law of John Hardy), proved 28 December 1676. ( D.B. 2, p. 147)
1.1.1.1. William Jordan. IOW marriages, 1628-1800: William Jordan and Mary Exum, sister of Francis Exum. 1753.
Brantley, James – estate appraised by Francis Exum, Simon Turner and Thomas Clark; signed Ruth Brantley; recorded 1 Jun. 1756.

.THE HODGES CONNECTION

1. Thomas Pitt of Blandford Forum, North Dorset.
1.1. William Pitt, b. 1578, Bristol (encompasses North Somerset and South Gloucestershire); d. 25 Oct. 1624, in Bristol, Will pr. 3 Feb. 1625; m. Mary Owen: Robert Owen, of Bristol, Merchant. Will dated Sep. 5, 1614, Codicil Sep. 4, 1615, pr. Feb. 16, 1615-16. (8 Cope). My cousin *Rice Davies, esq. My brother in law William Pitt, overseer. Rice Davies m. (1) Dorothy, da. of Maurice Rodney, Esq.; and niece of Agatha Rodney, who m. Thomas Hodges, Esquire, of Wedmore, d. 1583.
1.1.1. Col. Robert Pitt, d. bef. 9 January 1674, IOW.
1.1.1.1. Col. John Pitt, m. Olive, dau. of John Hardy and Alice Bennett. She m. 1. Giles Driver
1.1.2. Captain Henry Pitt, of Pagan Creek, who m. 2. Anne, widow of Robert Watson. He d. c. 1666, as that year his widow m. Captain James Powell.
1.1.2.1. Thomas Pitt, d. 1688, m. Mary, dau. of Col. Arthur Smith, and Sarah Jackson.
1.1.2. Captain Henry Pitt, of Pagan Creek, who m. 2. Anne, widow of Robert Watson. He d. c. 1666, as that year his widow m. Captain James Powell.
1.1.3. Thomas Pitt.
1.1.3.1. Thomas Pitt.*
1. Robert Driver.
1.1. Robert Driver, of Avening, (30 mls from Bristol),
1.1.1. Giles Driver Will was probated 2 July 1639 (PROB 11/180/571).
1.1.1.1. John Driver, bur. 12 June 1681, in Avening, m. Elizabeth Bridger, bapt. Slimridge 5 Aug. 1638, bur. 28 Jan 1675; cousin of Joseph Bridger, of Woodmanscote, in Dursley, 10 mls from Avening, who m. Hester Pitt. Joseph Bridger of Virginia made a bequest to his mother, Mary, still living in Dursley. *One of Joseph Bridgers tenants of Woodmanscote was *Thomas Pitt, who may have been he who was transported to Virginia, in 1666.

Whatever the case, the relationships outlined above serve to illustrate that early Virginia was colonised by the lesser children of the English squirearchy and the children of their aspiring tenants, who sought to intermarry with them; both carving out a new life in a new world. They acted in unison in order to survive; lack of mutual co-operation would have brought about extinction. They were not the creation of Hollywood, but of the English kinship system; a mind-boggling warren of interconnections of blood, intermarriage, and money.

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The ancestry of the Harris family of Wiveliscombe, intermarried with the family of Governor Bennett of Virginia takes on a new understanding when an accurate transcription of the name of the wife of William Harris is given; instead of West it should read Westbrooke. Immediately, the kinship network of his family is revealed, which exhibits a very close and repeated affinity to the Bennett family through kin intermarrying into such families as the Stevens. Other members of this kinship group include the Hill family (thus a familial connection is established to the Symes family of Mells), and a family of Forte, which was probably the same one connected to the son of Thomas Harris, d. 1672, as I have previously shown.

WIVELISCOMBE KINSHIP NETWORK

William Harris/Dorothy Westbrooke, 31 Aug. 1562.
Joan Westboke/John Clowter, 23 Sep. 1559.
Joan Upham/ Henry Westbrooke, 10 Dec. 1569.
John Westbrooke/Margarett Davie, 19 Sep. 1573.
Grace Davie/ John Moore, 9 Jun. 1575.
Nicholas Davie/Joan Birde, 7 Feb. 1596.
Robert Davie/Joan Williams, 23 Feb. 1596.
Joan Davie/Richard Hawkins, 1 Feb. 1599.
Thomas Davie/Elizabeth Stevens, 1626.
Joan Clowter/John Bowring, 29 Nov. 1565.
Henrie Bowring/Tamsin Grant, 5 Apr. 1624.
John Bowring/Margaret Rogers, 13 Nov. 1630.
Joan Bowring/ William Atkins, 15 Jun. 1634.
Agnis Bowring/John North, 8 May 1641.
Grace North/Samuel Stone, 22 Jun. 1643.
John Clowter/Agnes Lovell, 7 Feb. 1568.
Katherine Lovell/James Horne, 25 Aug. 1561.
Alice Lovell/Robert Forte, 8 Aug. 1605; issue Richard Forte, issue Francis Forte, bapt. 26 Aug. 1631
Elianor Forte/ Christopher Stevens, 19 Oct. 1581.
Thomas Forte/Ellen Webber, 8 Jun. 1588; issue 1. William Forte, issue Henry Forte, bapt. 21 May 1614; 2. John Forte, issue Thomas Forte.
Andrew Upham/Elizabeth Hill, 29 Jan. 1575.
Mary Hill/Robert Yea, 8 Oct. 1564.
Joan Hill/ David Edney,* 30 Jan 1574, *cousin of Eleanor Bennett, wife of Richard Harris.
Jane Hill/Richard Gardiner, 17 Jan. 1596.
Ethelred Hill/ William Hutchin, 4 Jun. 1618.
Elizabeth Hill/Lawrence Comer, 3 Feb. 1620.
Simon Hill/Joan Thorne, 6 Sep. 1623.
Anstice Hill/ Phillip Tucker, 1 Dec. 1638.
Joan Upham/Christopher Newton, 30 Jun. 1575.
John Newton/Emmett Goodman, 29 Oct. 1621.
Radigon Goodman/John Stevens, 17 Jan. 1625.
Mary Stevens/Richard Bennett, 12 Jan. 1648.
Thomas Upham/Elizabeth Southcotte, 20 May 1576.
John Upham/Jane Boddy, 28 Apr. 1588.
Emmett Boddy/ Thomas Briante, 4 Oct. 1577.
Robert Boddy/ Elizabeth Skinner, 20 Oct. 1586.
Robert Upham/Joane Perrett, 11 Oct. 1600.
George Upham/Sara Baker, 6 Nov 1637.
Thomas Upham/Mary Howell, 30 Oct. 1640.

There seems to be some very intersting names here in relation to Virginia ancestries.

The following Harris of the adjoining parishes of Nettlecombe and Halse were very likely members of this Harris family:
John Harris, m. Joan Woolcott, 6 Feb 1562, Nettlecombe.
Joan Harris, m. John Woolcot, 16 May 1568, Nettlecombe.
Robert Harris, m. Tamsen Stevens, 28 Jan 1584, Halse; having issue: Margaret Harris, m. John Stevens, 3 May 1595; William Harris, bapt. 1 Jun. 1585; George Harris, bapt. 9 Jul. 1589.

WIVELISCOMBE

1.
1.1. William Harris, m. Dorothy Westbrooke, 31 Aug. 1562.
1.1.1. Richard Harris, m. 8 Oct. 1594, Eleanor Bennet, sister of (1) Thomas Bennett, who had issue: (a) Thomas Bennett, b. 5 Nov. 1603, m. Agnes Beard, 17 Jul. 1623, parents of Richard Bennett, who m. Mary Stevens, 12 Jan. 1648, and Phillip Bennett, bapt. 6 March 1626. (b) Richard Bennett, bapt. 6 Aug. 1609, Governor of Virginia, whose son ….. (2) Edward Bennett, bapt. 2 Feb. 1577, in Wivelscombe; later of of St Olave, Southwark, London, and Lawn’s Creek, Virginia, father of Alice Bennett, who m. John Hardy. Nugent, C&P vol. 1, p. 569: Mr. John Hardie 1150 acres IOW Co., 5 June 1666. Beginning at upper corner tree of Mathew Tomlins old land, running SSE by Wm. Westwrayers land &c. SW on Mathew Tomlins new land. Their daus. m., respectively, Hodges Counsell, and Richard Jackson, whose da. Mary Jackson, m. Capt. George Hardy, who patented 500 acres on July 17, 1648 ‘lying on east side of Lawne’s Creek extending to main river and along the great river to the creek dividing the same from land of Alice Bennett’. George Hardy was an appraiser of the estate of Edward Harris, d. 1677. Richard Bennett’s first wife was Anne, who was Charles Barham’s sister (see Douglas Richardson, ‘Plantagenet Ancestry’). Mr. Charles Barham Ex., Thomas Harris (d. 1672) and Thomas Tuke (of Barwick, Somerset, whose family were tenants of the Symes family) overseers, were officers of the will of William Ridley, who was probably the br. of Elizabeth Ridley, Charles Barham’s wife.
1.1.1.1. William Harris, bapt. 28 Jan. 1595.
1.1.1.2. Richard Harris.
1.1.1.2.1. John Harris, bapt. 18 Feb. 1624; probably d. 1687, Virginia, m. Unity.
1.1.1.2.1.1. Elizabeth Harris, m. Samuel, son of Robert Lancaster Sr. and Sarah, widow of 2nd husband Richard Bennett Sr., d. 1710.
1.1.1.2.2. William Harris, m. Eleanor (probable sister-in-law of Christne Tucker).
1.1.1.2.2.1. James Harris, bapt. 13 Apr. 1657.
1.1.1.2.2.2. William Harris.
1.1.1.3. Thomas Harris,* m. Judith Blake, 20 Nov. 1623. *Cousin of Richard Bennett, , Governor of Virginia, and probably he who d. in Virginia in 1672.
1.1.1.4. Charity Harris, m. Robert Manning, br. of Thomas Manning, who m. Elizabeth Moore, 9 Jun. 1631, whose da. Joan Manning, m. Nicolas Perratt, 20 Feb. 1647.
1.2. Anstis Harris, m. Robert Woolcott, 8 Sep. 1569, Wiveliscombe

The proposition is that such as Edward Harris, d. 1677, and Thomas Harris, d. 1688, were of this general family, sharing their associations; a case of whatever the degree of blood kinship being reinforced by marriages into the same families over succeeding generations. The level of intermarriage within such kinship groups was truly staggering by most modern standards, and caution should be used when considering ‘DNA results’, which probably show closer ‘matches’ than was the fact.

As a footnote, is it known that the John Harris who married Unity did not leave male children?

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WEDMORE (Squires, Hodges family, abode of the Counsell family).

1. William Stone, bur. 14 Jun 1563.
1.1. John Stone, m. Isabel Edwards, 10 May 1561.
1.1.1. Robert Stone, bapt. 2 Aug. 1561.
1.1.1.1. William Stone, m. Philippa Maple, 20 Oct. 1597.
1.1.1.2. Robert Stone, m. Agnes Marten, 20 Oct. 1597.
1.1.1.3. Thomas Stone, m. Agnes Sachel, 17 May 1602.
1.1.1.3.1. Thomas Stone.
1.1.1.3.1.1. Thomas Stone, bapt. 15 Nov. 1635.
1.1.1.3.2. Edward Stone, m. Elizabeth.
1.1.1.3.2.1. Edward Stone, bapt. 28 Apr. 1644.
1.1.1.3.2.2. George Stone, bapt. 6 Feb. 1653, m. Dorothy.
1.1.1.3.2.2.1. George Stone.
1.1.1.3.2.2.2. William Stone.
1.1.1.4. Gabriel Stone, m. Grace Weathie, 19 Oct. 1603.
1.1.1.4.1. Grace Stone, m. Richard Haine, 26 Nov. 1627.
1.1.1.4.2. Gertrude Stone, m. Ward Collins, 8 Oct. 1632.
1.1.2. Maria Stone, bapt. 20 Feb. 1563, m. William Newman, 2 Oct. 1606.
1.1.3. William Stone.
1.1.3.1. Maria Stone, bapt. 24 Apr. 1579, m. William Parsons, 2 Jul. 1610.
1.1.2. Thomas Stone.
1.1.2.1. Robert Stone, bapt. 2 Sep. 1604.
1.2. Alice Stone, m. John Boltinge, 6 Sep 1564.

NUNNEY JUXTA WEDMORE (Squires, Lancaster family).

Willm Stone, bur. 5 Sep. 1582. John Stone, bur.30 Jan 1587.

1. Henry Stone.
1.1. Henry Stone, bapt. 9 Feb 1596, m. Francis Beard, 1624.
1.1.1. William Stone, bapt.. 15 Nov. 1601.
1.1.1.1. Henrie Stone, bapt. 1624.
1.1.1.2. William Stone, Jan. 1629.
1.1.1.2.1. William Stone, bapt. Mar. 1653.
1.1.1.2.1.1. William Stone, bapt. Feb. 1682.
1.1.1.2.1.2. George Stone, bapt. 14 Aug. 1687.
1.1.1.2.1.3. Jeffery Stone, bapt. 1 Feb. 1690.
1.1.1.3. Richard Stone, bapt. Nov. 1631.
1.1.1.4. John Stone, bapt. 17 Feb. 1633.
1.1.1.4.1. John Stone, bapt. 29 Jun. 1679.
1.1.1.4.1.1. John Stone, bapt. Jan. 1699.
1.1.1.5. Mathias Stone, bapt. 8 Jun. 1634.
1.1.1.6. Roger Stone, bapt. 15 Jan. 1636.
1.1.2. Jane Stone, m. Edward Swift, 23 Nov. 1626.
1.1.3. Joseph Stone.
1.1.3.1. Joseph Stone, bapt. 4 Oct. 1629.

MELLS (Squires, Symes family).

1.
1.1. John Stone, m. Elizabeth Hanny, 26 Feb. 1619.
1.2. Timothy Stone, m. Dowsabell Goodwin, 3 Jul. 1620.
1.2.1. Timothie Stone, bapt. 12 Oct. 1623.
1.2.2. Dowsabell Stone, bapt. 18 Jun. 1626.
1.2.3. John Stone, bapt. 30 Aug. 1629.
1.2.4. Thomas Stone.
1.2.4.1. Roert Stone, bapt. 7 Feb. 1662.
1.2.5. Robert Stone, bapt. 5 Aug. 1632.
1.2.6. James Stone, bapt. 15 Sep. 1638.
1.3. Grace Stone, m. William Pearce, 16 Aug. 1622.
1.4. Elizabeth Stone, m. John Allin, 19 Jan. 1631.

CHIPSTABLE/WIVELISCOMBE (Abode of the Bennett family of Virginia, and a Harris family intermarried with them).

STONE FAMILY deeds, etc. Mortgage of closes, part of Haddon Hill in Chipstable, and close called Maundown Close in Wiveliscombe (John Stone, mortgagor), 1837. (Somerset Heritage Centre, DD\HB/32).
1.
1.1. Humfrey Stone, m. Elizabeth Burte, 5 Aug. 1565, Wiveliscombe.
1.2. Thomas Stone, m. Alice Handcocke, 8 Jul. 1577.
1.2.1. Thomas Stone.
1.2.1.1. Thomas Stone, m. Grace Preest, 1627.
1.2.1.1.1. Robart Stone, m. Anstis Chaplin, 25 Nov. 1666.
1.2.1.1.1.1. Robert Stone, bapt. 15 May 1677, m. Anne Bide, 20 Apr. 1696.
1.2.1.1.1.1.1. James Stone.
1.2.1.1.1.1.1.1. John stone, bapt. 19 Oct. 1740, in Chipstable; fil. James Stone of Wiveliscombe & Elizabeth, m. Anne Satchel, 1 Dec 1779.
1.2.1.1.1.1.1.1.1. John Stone, bapt. 6 May 1789.
1.2.1.1.1.2. Grace Stone 1678, m. Morgan Newland, 19 Mar. 1698/Henry Paine, 30 Jul. 1701.
1.2.1.1.2. Samuel Stone, m. Joane Wiggins, 18 Nov. 1668.
1.2.1.1.2.1. Elizabeth Stone, bapt. 10 Sep. 1669, m. Richard Wescot, 12 Apr. 1684.
1.2.1.1.2.2.Thomas Stone, m. Joane Newton, 6 Jun. 1699
1.2.1.1.2.2.1. Nicholas Stone.
1.2.1.1.2.2.1.1. John Stone, bapt. 24 Feb. 1727.
1.2.1.1.2.2.1.1.1. James Stone, bapt. 21 Nov. 1756.
1.2.1.1.2.2.2. John Stone, bapt. 24 Apr. 1701.
1.2.1.1.2.2.3. Samuel Stone, bapt. 17 Apr. 1704, m. Ann Sladdon, 6 Feb. 1744.
1.2.1.1.2.2.4. John Stone, bapt. 17 Apr. 1704, m. Joan Timewell, 14 Oct. 1736.
1.2.1.1.2.2. Thomas Stone, M. Izatt Craze, 18 Apr. 1715.
1.2.1.1.2.2.1. Robert Stone, bapt. 18 Apr. 1720.
1.2.1.1.2.2.2. James Stone, bapt. 25 Aug. 1723.
1.2.1.1.2.2.3 Richard Stone, bapt. 15 Jan. 1727.
1.2.1.1.2.3 Phillip Stone.
1.2.1.1.2.3.1. William Stone, bapt. 7 Aug. 1698.
1.2.1.1.2.3.2. Francis Stone, bapt. 18 Jan. 1706.
1.2.1.1.2.4. Austin Stone, m. Joan Goodinge, 29 Jan. 1706.
1.2.1.1.2.5. Mary Stone, m. George Newton, 29 Sep. 1700.
1.2.1.2. Samuel Stone, m. Grace North.
1.2.1.2.1. Willmoth Stone, m. Edward Collins, 1670.

Perhaps some Virginia Stones here?

copyright m stanhope 2017

It is very difficult to understand the complexity of English migration to 17th century Virginia in terms of genealogy. Groups of cousin-migrants from nearby villages embarked on voyages of discovery. Before their ship reached port, passengers from other ships, from a different parts of England, may have joined them, drawn by some mutual economic interest.

When reaching the new homeland, the cousin-migrants would have continued their practice of intermarrying among each other, and would have also married into “new blood”; again, for economic interest. It is this intermingling of old kin with new that perplexes, and makes one Harris family appear as another, yet, in the case of Thomas Harris, who died in Virginia in 1688, a clear demarcation can be made from his family to any other. He came from Somerset, but from which particular family?

I have shown that a Thomas Harris married a Alice West in 1635, in Nunney, Somerset, and had a son, Thomas, born in 1636. Thomas Harris was a tennant of the Symes family, whose tenants also included the Fulghams. Whatsmore, a reasonable case can be made for descendants of Thomas Harris, d. 1688, being associated with the Symes in Brunswick Co. Also, within a few miles of Nunney, a Thomas Harris married Sara Pope, 2 May 1622, in Radstock, and Ann Harris, bapt. 14 Dec. 1645, m. William Persons (born 1649), 20 Sep. 1674, in Hemington; associations which may have resonated in Virginia.

It can not be discounted that the Thomas born in 1636 was he who died in 1688; nor can it be that he was the Thomas who died in 1668. I would suggest, however, that the Thomas of 1636 was more likely to have come from the villages of Wedmore/Cheddar, where he would have known such as the Chapman, Council, Preston, and Turner families. Given that the Thomas who d. in 1688 left orphans in the care of John Turner and Hodges Council, it seems overwhelmingly the case that he had been a neighbour of theirs in Somerset, and that the associations of his cousins in Nunney were peripheral – “shared” to gain advantage, as in the case of enjoying the benefits of other cousins marrying into the Bennett family of Somerset and Virginia.

The strong impression is one of a specific family of Harris continuing their association with the Council and Turner families, as well as with peripheral cousins.

HODGES
1. George Rodney.
1.1. Maurice Rodney, Esq., m. Joan, dau. of Sir Thomas Dyer of Somerford, Co., Wilts.
1.1.1. Dorothy wife of Rice Davis of the Middle Temple, and of Tickenham, Esq., whose family, as I have shown, were connected to the Edward Harris who died in Virginia in 1677.
1.2. Agatha Rodney, m. Captain Thomas Hodges, d. 1583.
(of the next generation: William Turner & Jane Rodney, 28 May 1612; issue: John Turner: Johannes Turner, bapt. 14 May 1618, f. William. John Turner, d. aft. 25 Mar 1705 in IOW Co., m. Mary Tomlin. Thomas Harris, d. 1688, placed his son George with John, whose spoken Will named named sons John, James, William, Joseph, Simon and grandd. Ann Everett; witnessed by Edward Harris, John Johnson, Jenkins Dorman, Wm Westray, and Mary Tomlin.
1.2.1. Thomas Hodges, m. Eleanor, da. of John Rosse (Rose) of Shepton Beauchamp, Somerset. Will of Thomas Hodges, Gentleman of Wedmore, Somerset, prob. 6 Feb. 1601. Joseph Turner, Will rec. 7 April 1737, in Brunswick County, m. Burchett Lundy, da. of Elizabeth Burchett and James Lundy. Drury Lundy admin., estate paid Edward Harris. R. 14 Sept. 1780.
1.2.1.1. George Hodges Esq., d. Feb. 1, 1654.
1.2.1.2. Jane Hodges, m. John Strachey, of Sutton Court, Somerset, d. 1674, grandson of William Strachey, Secretary of Virginia.
1.2.1.3. John Hodges, m. Margery: Margery Hodges of Heathhouse, Wedmore, widow, to Richard Counsell* of Wedmore, husbandman and Joan his wife: Wedmore, Somerset. 1648. (Wiltshire and Swindon History Centre, ref. 2667/1/36/2). Lease: Margery Hodges of Heathhouse, Wedmore, widow, to Richard Counsell of Wedmore, husbandman and Joan his wife. Wiltshire and Swindon History Centre. ref. 2667/1/36/2. 1648. Sale: 15a. land occ. by Thos. Brooke, 2a. land occ. by Hy.Symes,* mess. and ten. and 40a. land occ. by Rich. Council, all in Wedmore, sold by co-heirs of Geo. Hodges to Wm. Prowse of Compton Bishop. Somerset Heritage Centre, ref. DD\FD/10. *Uncle of Richard Symes, father of Adam Symes (See N&Q, 1890), father of George Sims, of Brunswick Co.; d. Sept. 1763; who bought land from his br. John Sims, on 5 Nov. 1747, father of Adam Sims, who m. Elizabeth Walton, da. of George Walton of Brunswick Co., and who was, thus, the br.-in-law of Nathan Harris, grandson of Thomas Harris, d. 1688, and br. of West Harris.
1.2.1.4. William Hodges: Counterpart of bargain and sale: George Barber of Ashmore, gent., to William Hodges, gent., messuage etc., Wedmore, Somerset. 1653. (Wiltshire and Swindon History Centre, ref. 2667/1/36/5). Counterpart of release: Robert Barber of Ashcombe, Wiltshire, esq., to Edward Counsell of Wedmore, yeoman: Wedmore, Somerset. (Wiltshire and Swindon History Centre, ref. 2667/1/36/22).

COUNCIL
1. John Cownsell, bapt. 1573, Wedmore.
1.1. John Cownsell, bapt 28 Nov. 1601, ‘f. Joannis Counsell’, m. Mary Coomer, 26 Nov 1631; the sister of Agnes Coomer, who m. John Harris in the adj. parish of Cheddar, 4. Feb. 1635.
1.2. *Richard Cownsell, bapt. 3 Sept. 1613 (Blackford vill. par. Wedmore), m. (1) Joan Taylor, 12 Aug. 1640, (2) Elizabeth Hix, 12 Aug. 1647, dau. of William Hix and Grace Morton, m. 23 Jan. 1625, and niece of Margaret Hix, who m. Simon Day, 14 Jan. 1632.
1.2.1. Hodges Council, the very likely son of Richard Council, by either his first or second wife. Richard Counsell was the br.-in-law of Susan Lancaster, and Hodges Counsell may have received his Christian name after her husband, William Hodges, a member of the very influential Hodges family, squires of Wedmore, who was probably his Godfather. Hodges Council m. Lucy Hardy
1.2.1.1. Hodges Council, m. 2. Rebecca Pope.
1.2.1.1.1. John council.
1.2.1.1.1.1. James Council. D.B. 10, p. 205, 2 May 1756: John Councill of Isle of Wright County and Province of Virginia sold to James Council of said county and his heirs forever, “my plantation whereon I now dwell only excepting my life in plantation” on Blackwater (River) 100 acres more or less joining Benjamin Darden and Samuel Vaughn. Part of “Patien” granted Hodges Councill (the 2d) and by his will to his son John Councill and now by said John Councill to his son James Councill, to him & his heirs forever to have & hold. Signed: John Councill. Witness: John Benteen, Nathan Councill. William Harris to Nathan Council of Isle of Wight County, 8 Apr. 1756, 100 ac. adj. Bridgman Joyner Jr., W. William Harris, Jesse Jones, Sara King, and James Kitchen. (Southhampton Co. D.B. 2). Katherine Dunkley admin., leg. brother-on-law Moses Dunkley … the plantation which my late husband (John Dunkley, Will R. 9 Nov. 1749) purchased of John Hodges; Thomas, son of Jonathon Joyner, and his brother Thomas; estate signed by John Boykin, Matthew Joyner and Thomas Joyner. Martin Harris admin., leg. cousin James, son of Robert Harris; to James, son of Edward Harris; to Matthew, son of Robert Harris; to John, son of Robert Harris; to William, son of George Harris; to James, son of James Harris. Exs. John Dunkley,  Joseph and William Jones. Wit. Katherine Dunkley, Joseph Monger. R. 1 Feb. 1747. (1. Thomas Norfleet (m. Ruth Blount) bought adjoining land from Robert Council (NC. Edg. Co. D.B. 1., p. 204), and was mentioned as a neighbour of Robert Council and Thomas Turner (J. Bryan Grimes, Abstracts of North Carolina Wills, p. 17). 1.1. Marmaduke Norfleet. 1.1.1. Elizabeth Norfleet, m. James Harris in Halifax Co, NC., son of: James Harris, Will pr. 10 Jan. 1749). James Harris, d. 1749, br.-in-law of Matthew Joyner. 10 Jan. 1749. Feb. Court, 1749. Sons: James (‘my plantation’), Eli (Elias). Wife and Executrix: Cheary (sister of Mathew Joyner). Executor: Mathew Joyner. Witnesses: Wm. Skinner, John Blount, John Crumpton. (J. Bryan Grimes, Abstracts of North Carolina Wills, p. 153). Henry Turner: Feb. Court, 1748: Executor: Matthew Joyner. Witnesses: Matthew Joyner, James Harris, Marmaduke Norfleet. (ibid. p. 382). *Son of Thomas Joyner, Will dated 13 April 1740; the son of Thomas Joyner (br. of Bridgeman Joyner, the guardian of an orphan of Thomas Harris, d. 1688).

CHAPMAN
Elizabeth Chapman, m. Leonard Spenser, 5 Oct. 1663, Cheddar.
Robert Chapman, m. Mary Preston, 13 Nov. 1686, Wedmore.
William Chapman, m. Mary Hickes, 27 Nov. 1698, Wedmore.

Bath, Church of Saint Peter and Saint Paul, i.e. Bath Abbey:

1. Thomas Chapman, m. Elizabeth Kinge, 28 Jul. 1573.
1.1. William Chapman, bapt. 28 Sept. 1577.
1.1.1. William Chapman, Glover, m. Margaret.
1.1.1.1. John Chapman, bapt. 4 Feb. 1615, m. Edith Hickes, 14 Apr. 1645.
1.1.1.2. Katherine Chapman, bapt. 17 Nov. 1611, m. Richard Mayo, 19 Oct. 1640.
1.1.1.3. William Chapman, bapt. 7 Sept. 1609.
1.1.1.3.1. Anne Chapman, bapt. 27 Jul. 1647, m. Walter Hickes, 4 Feb. 1676.
1.1.1.3.1.1. Robert Hickes, bapt.13 Mar. 1683. 6 March 1738.
1.1.1.3.1.2. Mr. John Hickes, b. c. 1684, m. 1. Mary … Will of John Hicks, dated the 30th day of September, 1728, and proved 20 Aug. 1729. Item I givwe & devise unto my two sons Jno. Hicks & Dan’l Hicks and their heirs forever my tract of land which I took up on Stevenss’ branch in Brunswick Co. to be divided between them & my will & desire is that my son John Hicks go and live with my son-in-law John Rose. (The Rose family were intermaried with that of Hodges, as given).

The Brantley connection to a number of Somerset families stems from an early period: Edward Brantley, 675 ac. adj. land of Mr. England and Mr. Tooke, IOW., 30 Oct. 1669. Phillip Brantley: ‘tract of land and plantation situated lying and being in Isle of Wight County whereon the said Phillip Brantley dewleth 100 acres being part of a rant of 675 acres dated Oct 20, 1669 to Edward Brantley by the last will & testament and devised to said Phillip. 22 Feb. 1724. Witness: Joseph Chapman. Benjamin Brantley to John Davis, ‘tract of land lying in the upper parish on Lyons Creek 150 acres beginning at Smallock’s Gull and bounded on William Drew’s line to the River and so along the River to Barlow’s line and down the said line to the Crook and so up to 1st station. Witness: John Hodges.

John Brantley to Joseph Atkinson, track of land lying and being on the East Side of the first Swamp of the Black Water containing by examination 100 acres of land which was by the last and will and testament of Edward Brantley deceased devised to his grandson Edward deceased, father of the said John Brantley, beginning at James Tooke Scott’s line thence along that line to John Miller’s line thence along the said Miller’s line to John Wrenn’s line and along his line to the line of land purchased by James Ingles of John Davis along the said Ingles’s line to the beginning’. Witness: John Person, John Dunkley, John Eley, James Holt. The kinship connection of the Brantleys to such as the Councils was based on Hardy Council’s da., Mary, being the wife of William Brantley, son of Edward Brantley.

1. …
1.1. Edward Wiche, m. Sara Chepman, 9 Feb. 1640, Bridgwater (St Mary). 16 mls fr. Wedmore.
1.2. Henry Wiche, m. Joanna Craftman, 5 Jun. 1645, Bridgwater.
1.2.1. Henry Wiche, bapt. 16 Jul 1664, Bridgwater (reg. f. Henry, mother Joan).
1.2.1.1. Henry Wyche.
1.1.1.1.1. Abigail Wyche, m. George Brewer (4 March 1734), son of George Brewer and Sarah Lanier, half-sister of Sampson Lanier Sr., who m. Elizabeth Washington; their son, Thomas Lanier, m. Anne Maclin, dau. of William Maclin Sr. and Katherine Brewer.

One factor that should be considered is that the Thomas Harris who died in 1688 was unlikely to have been the patriarch of all claimants. Groups of kin migrated together; a son named in a will may not have been synonomous with a namesake who is recorded in the next generation.

The John Harris who m. Agnes Comer should, perhaps, be considered as a potential Harris patriarch in Virginia.

1. John Harris, d. 1625.
1.1. John Harris, m. Agnes Comer, 4 Feb. 1635. Margery Coomer, m. John Martin, 17 Apr. 1637. John Cownsell, bapt 28 Nov. 1601, ‘f. Joannis Counsell’, m. Mary Coomer, 26 Nov 1631.
1.1.1. John Harris Jr. (so designated).
1.1.2. Arthur Harris.
1.1.2.1. Arthur Harris, bapt. 23 June 1663.
1.1.2.1.1. Samuel Harris, bapt. 2 Jan. 1686, m. Hannah Comer, bapt. 4 Dec. 1702.
1.1.2.1.1.1. John Harris, bapt. 30 Mar. 1706.
1.1.2.1.1.2. James Harris, bapt. 5 Oct. 1707.
1.1.3. Anthony Harris.
1.1.3.1. Isaac Harris, bapt. 27 Feb. 1663, m. Dorothy Harris, bapt. 13 June 1675.
1.1.3.1.1. Joseff Harris, bapt. 15 Nov. 1691.
1.1.3.1.2. Robert Harris, bapt. 3 Jan. 1692.
1.1.3.1.3. James Harris, bapt. 18 Feb. 1704.
1.1.3.1.4. Anthony Harris, bapt. 2 Apr. 1710.
1.1.3.2. John Harris.
1.1.3.2.1. John Harris, bapt. 23 Aug. 1694, m. Mary Rogers, 26 Dec 1723.
1.1.3.3. Robert Harris, m. Mary Hill, 29 Jun 1695.
1.1.3.3.1. John Harris, bapt. 30 Mar 1707.
1.1.3.4. Thomas Harris, m. Anne Marshall, bapt. 20 Oct, 1678.
1.1.3.4.1. Thomas Harris, bapt. 12 June 1698.
1.1.3.5. James Harris, m. Hannah Marshall 28 Mar 1706
1.1.3.6. Anthony Harris.
1.1.3.6.1. Caleb Harris, bapt. 6 Oct 1700, m. Sussanah Martin, 7 Apr. 1729.
1.2. Robert Harris. He was probably this Robert Harris: December 1634, William Lacey leased James Tooke 500 acres on the east side of Lawne’s Creek; 26 October 1646, James Tooke to Robert Harris, all my right and title to this lease.
1.2.1. Edward Harris, bapt. 8 Aug. 1624, Wedmore, ‘son of Robert’; probably he who d. in 1677, in Virginia.
1.3. William Harris, bapt. 7 Dec. 1617, f. John.
1.3.1. Thomas Harris.
1.4. Thomas Harris.
1.4.1. Thomas Harris, bapt. 31 Dec. 1637, Cheddar, ‘son of Thomas’, probably he who d. in 1688, in Virginia, rather than his kinsman and namesake, bapt. 14 Aug. 1636, in Nunney.

Intermarriages:
Comer – Gardner, Robinson.
Rogers – Reade, Hill, Turner.
Marshall – Goff/Gough, Styles, Gardner.
Goff – Gardner.
Hill- Lane, Rogers.

CALTHORPE/HARRIS
1. John Calthorpe, of Cockthorp, m. Catherine Astley, da. of John Astley, of Melton.
1.1. Christopher Calthorpe, of Cockthorpe.
1.1.1. James Calthorp, of Cockthorpe, d. 1559, m. Elizabeth Garneys.
1.1.1.1. Christopher Calthorpe of Cockthorpe, m. Jane Rokewood
1.1.1.1.1. Sir James Calthorpe of Cockthorpe, m. Barbara Bacon, da. of Francis Bacon, of Hegeset.
1.1.1.1.1.1.Christhoper Calthorpe, m. (1602) Maud Thurton, da. of John Thurton of Brome Hall.
1.1.1.1.1.1.1. James Calthorpe.
1.1.1.1.1.1.1.1. Lestrange Calthorpe, m. Mary Butts.
1.1.1.1.1.1.1.1.1. Charles Calthorpe b. 8 Oct. 1709, m. Elinor Clifton, da. of Thomas Clifton, and wife, Sarah. Will of Charles Calthorpe, 1756, named ” son Edward Calthorpe”, “son James Butts Calthorpe”, “daughter Mary Bayley” (wife of John Bailey); “daughter Frances Jones”; “sons in law John Bayley and Jesse Jones”; admin. Edmund Tyler. Charles Parish records, York Co. W.B. 3, p. 118: Elener Calthorpe. Leg – da. Elener Clifton Calthorpe; da. Diana; grandson Charles Butts Bowen; son Edward; son Anthony Calthorpe. Exs. Edward and Anthony Calthorpe. D. April 7, 1772. R. Jan 12, 1775. Wit: Joshua Bailey, Benjamin Bailey, Sarah Bailey. Southampton Co. D.B. 1, pp. 380-382, Roger Delk of Surry to Benjamin Bailey, 2 Mar. 1752.
Edward Harris of Surry Co. to Thomas Clifton of Isle of Wight Co. – 140 ac. being a moiety of a certaint tract of land … granted to said Edward Harris on 2 Nov. 1742. Wit. Buford Pleasant, John Harris, Mary Pleasant. R. 18 April 1744. Thomas Clifton, Will R. 11 Jan. 1781. Wit. Thomas Turner, Simon Harris. Simon Harris: Thomas Turner, admin account, “paid Richard Harris for keeping Jesse and Simon Turner” …” paid Simon Harris for keeping Harris Turner … paid Elias Fort for keeping William Turner”. Audited by Jesse Whitehead and John Whitehead. R. 13 June 1782, p. 419.
Simon Harris. R. 12 Feb. 1789. Witness Henry Pope, Rebecah Harris. John Jones, admin account, leg: “son Jesse“, “son Brittain“. Wit. Simon Harris. R. 14 Feb. 1750, p. 34. John Harris, admin., leg. “son Drew“, “son Newitt“; ex. “son Nathan and Edward Drew”. Wit. Simon Harris, Jesse Jones. R. 13 Dec. 1764, p. 108.
John Harris, admin., “brother Newitt Harris, brother Thomas, brother Nathan”; nieces Fanny Nesum, Lucy Newsum, sister Martha Newsum. Ex. Cordall Norfleet and brother Nathan Harris”. R. 11 Jan. 1781, p. 309.
Daniel Mackey admin., leg. “son William the plantation bought of Joseph and William Harris“, “da. Hope Joyner”. Wit. Hardy Pope, Simon Harris. R. 13 May 1762, p. 471. Samuel Johnson admin., “son John land bought of John Bowen”, “da. Mary Turner”. Wit. Henry Pope, Simon Harris, Hardy Pope”. R. 14 Feb. 1779, p. 252. Simon Harris admin., son William; “sons Simon and Jacob“. R. 11 May 1769, p. 275. Timothy Thorpe admin., “grandda. Mary Barham. Wit. Edward Harris. R. 14 March 1750, p. 37.
Henry Person admin., estate appraised by Edward Harris, Henry Harris and William Womack; signed Mary Person. Ordered 12 Oct. 1754.
1.1.1.1.1.1.1.1.1.1. Sarah Calthorpe, m. Edmund Tyler, rec. in a deed to William Jones.
1.1.1.1.1.1.1.1.1.1.1. Catherine Tyler, m. Levi Edwards.
1.1.1.1.1.1.1.1.1.2. Frances Calthorpe, b. 6 Sept. 1737, m. Jesse Jones. John Exum of Edgecombe Co. to Joseph Jones, 9 Feb. 1757, 100 ac. on Round Hill Swamp adj. the north side of Old Field Branch, Jesse Jones, Joseph Vasser, Gums old field, and Sasgehanna Branch (patent to William Edwards on 16 June 1714), W: John Exum, Benjamin Vasser, and Joseph Vasser, p. 97: Richard Worrell and wife Patience to James Kitching (8 Apr. 1756) 174 ac. on the south side of the Blackwater Swamp adj. William Harris, Thomas Gray, and John Barnes (part of a patent to Lewis Bryan for 345 ac. who sold to Robert Tyler and was sold to sd. Richard), W.: Richard Worrell (father-in-law of Charles Council) and Patience Worrell, Joseph Denson, John Johnson, and Nathan Council, pp. 97-98: William Harris to Nathan Council of Isle of Wight County dated 8 Apr. 1756, 100 ac. adj. Bridgman Joyner Jr., W. William Harris, Jesse Jones, Sara King, and James Kitchen. (SouthHampton Co. D.B. 2). IOW. D.B. 10, p. 205, 2 May 1756: John Councill of Isle of Wright County and Province of Virginia sold to James Council of said county and his heirs forever, “my plantation whereon I now dwell only excepting my life in plantation” on Blackwater (River) 100 acres more or less joining Benjamin Darden and Samuel Vaughn. Part of “Patien” granted Hodges Councill (the 2d) and by his will to his son John Councill and now by said John Councill to his son James Councill, to him & his heirs forever to have & hold. Signed: John Councill. Witness: John Benteen, Nathan Councill.
1.1.1.1.1.1.1.1.1.3. James Butts Calthorpe, 1740-1795, m. Lucy Bailey. Southampton Co. W.B 4, p. 42: Barnaby Bailey. Leg – wife Mary; son James; da. Celia Barlow; da. Martha Booth; da. Elizabeth Hayes; son Richard my land in Sussex Co.; da. Lucy Calthorpe; with reversion Mary Bailey Calthorpe; granddaughter, Lucy Bailey; to my grandchildren, the children of my da. Ann Coker. Exs. wife Mary and son Richard Bailey. D. Sept 1, 1783 R. Nov 13, 1783. Wit: Jordan Judkins, James Gray, Halcott Briggs Pride. Peter Butts, leg. da. Lucy. R. 8 June 1780. Wit. Edwin Gray, Benjamin Kirby, Silas Kirby.
1.1.1.1.1.1.1.1.1.4. Martha Calthorpe, m. Jonathan Bowen.
1.1.1.1.1.1.1.1.1.5. Anna Calthorpe, m. James Summerell. Southampton Co. Wills – James Summerell, 24 Feb. 1800:  Item: The east part from such directed line I give & bequeath unto my son Silas Summerell to him and his heirs forever. Item: I give unto my daughter Lucretia Branch and to her heirs forever the sum of ten shillings current money of Virginia.
I also do appoint William Boykin and Silas Summerell my whole & sole Executors of this my Last Will & Testament. In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this 24th day of February 1800. John Summerell (seal) Pronounce d & declared in presents of Benjamin Brister, William Holden, and Shadrack Boykin. At a Court held for the County of Southampton the 21st day of July 1800 this Will was presented in court by Silas Summerell & William Boykin, the Executors therein named, proved by the oaths of Benjamin Brister & William Holden, two of the witneesses thereto & ordered to be recorded. W.B. 5, 1797-1804, Southampton Co, pp. 197-198. Will of James Summerell, 24 Feb 1800, Southampton Co., names son “my son Silas Summerell”, “son Lemuel Butts Summerell”; “my daughter Lucretia Branch”, “my three daughters namely: Dianah, Sally & Eleanor”; “William Boykin and Silas Summerell my whole & sole Executors”. Arthur Whitehead, d. 1748, Southampton Co, m. Patience Newsum, having issue: William, who m. (1) Patience Boykin, da. of William Boykin, whose will was probated 12 February 1789, naming children Patience Whitehead, Catherine Harris, Brittain Boykin, William Boykin, Shadrack Boykin, Sarah Williamson “widow”, and Martha Hough.* Executors: sons William Boykin and Shadrack Boykin. Witnesses: Edward Neal, Stephen Summerell, and James Hough.
1.1.1.1.1.1.1.1.1.6. Diana Calthorpe, m. Silas Kirby. Thomas Francis, estate appraised by Hardy Harris, Michael Warren, and John Kirby.* R. 14 March 1782, p. 380. Benjamin Harris admin., leg. “son Benjamin with reversion to grandson West Harris“; “son Absolom; son Hardy a tract bought of John Person, with reversion of bequest to son Michael”. …… Hardy Harris, estate appraised by John Blunt, James Turner, and Edmund Turner”. R. 8 Sept. 1791. Joshua, orphan of Joshua Harris, chooses Jesse Harris as his guardian. Jesse Harris admin., audited by Joshua Nicholson* and Hardy Harris. R. 9 Sept 1779. Jesse Harris and Mary (Brantley?) his wife deed Benjamin Clifton 137 ac. on Flat Swamp adjacent John Green and Joshua Harris’s Mill in 1775, p. 186. Josiah Holliman admin., daus. Mary Clayton, Lucy Andrews; Sarah Moody, *Martha Hough. *John Kirby’s brother-in-law; Joshua’s estate appraised by William Moore, Timothy Thorpe, and Amos Harris. R. 9 May 1782.
1.1.1.1.1.1.1.1.1.7. Elinor Clifton Calthorpe, d. 12 Jan. 1807, m. John Hawkins Pond.* Richard Kirby admin., names da. “Susannah Clifton”; “son Silas”; “da. Patty Pond”; “son Richard”. Wit. *John Kirby. R. 8 Feb. 178, p. 316. *Son of Richard Pond, exec. of James Moore’s estate, R. 8 Oct. 1778. Thomas Moore’s estate appraised by Joshua Nicholson, Hardy Harris, Owen Myrick (Edward Harris connection) and Robert Jones.
1.1.1.1.1.2. Anne Calthorpe, m. Sir William de Grey of Merton. Settlement WLS/IX/1-11 – Estate of Sir William de Grey, settlements, extents, etc. 1601-62 Description: By William de Grey knight (Christopher Calthorpe, Thomas Cotton and Henry Calthorpe Esquires his brothers-in-law trustees), for purpose of payment of debts and to provide for his wife and family, of manor of Buriehall in Great Ellingham, Attleborough, Deopham, Hingham and Little Ellingham, Mannynges Grove in Great Ellingham, manor of Castons alias Cawstons in Little Cornard and woods called Newly Woodd, Mawley Woodd, Applegate Woodd and Collyers Grove there, Banyardes manor in Haddeston and Bunwell, and Chervills manor in Beechamwell. Norfolk Record Office WLS/IX/5/408 x 9. 1617.

copyright m stanhope 2017

It is not the case that the following were long-time inhabitants of London and its suburbs; many families were drawn to London and its ports as would-be ‘oceanic traders’ – those seeking to buy goods from the West Indies and Virginia to sell in Europe. These families were mostly of many strands of cousins, some of whom may have settled in the new colonies (as tips of an iceberg), whilst the greater part remained, though not shut off from communication with their adventurous cousins, as many letters show.

It is reasonable to suppose that the following Izards settled in South Carolina:

1. William Izard, m. Elizabeth Brand.
1.1. Ralph Izard, of St. Helen Bishopsgate, Citizen/Grocer, m. Elizbeth Prior, May 28 1654, in St Augustines. PROB 11/453/113 Will of Ralph Izard, Grocer of London, 8 November 1699. West Sussex Record Office: Property as in Add Mss no. 10,642: Assignment. Consideration £50: Sir Robert Hyde, bt., justice of the Court of Common Pleas, and George Gounter, of Racton, esq. to George Prior, of London, gent., Ralph Izard, of London, grocer, and John Chase, of London, gent. In consideration of £10 paid by George Prior to George Gounter, from Sir Robert Hyde and George Gounter to Ralph Izard and John Chase in trust for George Prior. Witness: William Lucas. 18 July 1660. C 5/504/59, Mss 10,650-10,652: Izard v Prior. Plaintiffs: Ralph Izard, Elizabeth Izard, his wife, and others. Defendants: Charles Prior and others. Subject: property in Tottenham etc, Middlesex. 1675. Conveyance (bargain and sale); with final concords. Consideration £605. Description: Charles Prior, son and heir of George Prior, late of Highgate, co. Middx., gent., dec’d., Theophilus Birkenhead, late of London, now of Highgate, gent. and Richard Izard, citizen and grocer of London, to Edward Benson, of Stoughton, gent. Property as in Add Mss no. 10,642. With covenant to levy a fine. Witnesses: Christopher Nevill, John Painter, John Voke, J. Biggs, Granado Chester, Thos. Brereton, and Thomas Woodley. 5 June 1679. To repeat: N.R.O. Add Mss 10,654, William Izard, of London, merchant (son of Charles Izard and Mary, his wife, and grandson of George Prior, late of Highgate, co. Middx., gent., dec’d.) to Edward Benson, of Westbourne, gent In consideration of £100 paid to William Izard out of the said property under the will of the said George Prior, dec’d., on reaching the age of 23 sic years Witnesses: Richard May, Charles Prior, John Spencer, and Robert Yeo, 16 Nov. 1687. West Sussex Record Office, as in Add Mss no. 10,654. Release of legacy. Consideration £100
Description: Charles Prior, of Sherstone, co. Wilts., gent. to Edward Benson, of Westbourne, gent. Legacy of £100 payable out of property as in Add Mss no. 10,642, under the terms of the will of the said George Prior. Witnesses: Thos. Locke, John Keighley and Thomas Alderton. 6 June 1693.
1.1.1. John Izard.
1.1.1.1. Ralph Izard, b. 1696
1.1.1.2. John Izard, b. 1699
1.1.1.3. Charles Izard, b. 1700.
1.1.2. Ralph Izard. SO. CA. HISTORICAL AND GENEALOGICAL MAGAZINE: ‘Ralph Izard. Letter of attorney 6 Nov. 1697, to me from Wm. Middleton, formerly of London, mercht., &c. release Ralph Izard, of Berkley County, gentn , executor in right of his late wife Mary Izard, als. Middleton, relict and widow of Arthur Middleton, &c. 17 April 1703. (Probate Court Records 1690-1704, p. 393).
1.1.3. Benjamin Izard; of Wassamasaw, Berkley County, S. Carolina, gent. Letters of administration 22 Feb. 1724 to Elizabeth Izard, widow and relict of Benjamin Izard, late of Berkley Co., planter, dee’d, who lately died intestate, &c. , warrant to Capt. Wm. Saunders, Mr. Lawrence Saunders, Mr. John Postell. sen., Mr. Jas. Postell and Mr. John Postell, jun. (Bk. 1722-26, p. 106.) Inventory of goods ol Elizabeth Izard, late dee’d, shewn by Ralph Izard and Walter Izard, Esqs. of sd. dee’d, warrant 9 March 1726 (same appraisers). (Bk. 1722, p. 76). Ralph Izard arrived in Charlestown 3 Oct. 1682. (Grant Book 1682-92, p. 304.). Grants, Berkley County, all adjoining: 15 Sept. 1705, Ralph Izard 3800 acres bounding on Benjamin and George Izard’s lands. Wm. Sanders and vacant lands, also 250 acres; Benjamin Izard 500 acres north of Ashley River, also 260 acres; George Izard 500 acres north of Ashley River. (Ibid 1693-1736, p. 210)’.
1.2. William Izard, Draper, m. Frances. PROB 11/372/45, Will of William Izard, Draper of Saint Mary Savoy, Middlesex, 11 Jan. 1683. C 7/113/121, Eales v Izard. Plaintiffs: Thomas Eales. Defendants: William Izard. Place or subject: property in Bishopsgate Street London, Middlesex.
1.2.1. Thomas Izard, b. 1660.
1.2.2. John Izard, b. 1663.
1.2. Richard Izard, Grocer, 1635-1688, of St. Boltolph Bishopsgate, m. (1675) Martha Prior. PROB 11/392/378: Will of Richard Izard, Grocer of London 15 September 1688.

Just as there were cousinship strands of Izard, so were there of such as Carter and Spencer.

C 2/JasI/C16/4: Cornwallis v Prat. Defendant William Carter. Subject: the White Hart inn in St Giles in the Fields, Middlesex. 1603-1625.
Northamptonshire Record Office (N.R.O.), Th 1848: Assignment of Mortgage (1) Anne Lee of London – widow To (2) Henry Carter of St. Giles in the fields (Mddx.) – upholster For £230 Of 2 messuages in Queen Street in the parish of St. Giles in the Fields (Mddx.). 1 being in occ. of Henry Archbold, the other of John Newson. 1654.
(As an aside, Newson/Newsum were interchangeable. The family of Peter Newsum were scrivenors, and, as such, prepared legal documents and arranged loans for ‘oceanic traders‘, such as the Bennetts and Pitts, sometimes being the direct lender. London Newsums of note: Information of Ralph Carter, son of John Carter, doctor in physick, that he witnessed dispute between Philip Newsam and Edward Hide, and found latter slain near Scotland Yard, with a sword by his side. Taken before Thomas Wattson.
London Metropolitan Archives (L.M.A.), WJ/SR(NS)1/109, 1619. Recognizance; William Newsum of Westminster, baker (£20), Thomas Oldham of Westminster, baker (£10) and John Williamson of Westminster, victualler (£10) for the appearance of William Newsum at the next sessions for beating and abusing Anthony Pope of Westminster, baker. Taken before Richard Wigmore: For good behaviour. L.M.A, WJ/SR(NS)4/021, 1621. PROB 11/193/522, Will of John Newsum, Merchant Tailor of Saint Magnus the Martyr, City of London 16 Aug. 1645. Elizabeth Abbott, bapt. 16 Nov. 1623, London, Bishopsgate, da. of Myles Abbott, “tayler”; m. William Newsum, 5 Feb. 1637, London, St Botolph. (The Spencer family connected to Newsum in Virginia may have stemmed from: ‘William & Alice Spencer’ (m. June 23, 1622), at St. Olave, Southwark; having issue a. Alice (as recorded); b. Elizabeth, who m. (1) Major Robert Sheppard (bef. 1654) of James City. He was very likely a son of ‘Francis Shepheard and Elizabeth Ellis’ (m. September 28, 1617, St. Olave). (2) Thomas Warren, of Ripple Court, Kent. Major Robert Sheppard and Elizabeth Spencer had issue: Anne Shephard, who m. (1) Thomas Hart & (2) William Newsome).
PROB 11/390/2, Will of Henry Carter, Gentleman of Saint Giles in the Fields, Middlesex 19 March 1687.
1666 Hearth Tax, Henry Carter, Esq., for twenty poor parishioners of St. Giles’s-in-the-Fields. 24 s 2 Houses; John carter 2 s.
(as another aside, these Carters would have known a family of Bracewell: C 3/386/32: Tue v Bracewell. Plaintiffs: Richard Tue and others. Defendants: Robert Bracewell. Subject: property in St Giles in the Fields, London. 1621-1625. E 214/428: Parties: Henry, Earl of Holland, Sir Nathaniel Riche of London, Dame Dorothy Fowler, widow, Sir William Blake of London, Rice Williams, Thomas Otway and Thomas Stockton of London, gentleman; Richard Bracewell, merchant taylor of West Smithfield: Lease of a messuage near Smithfield, London; 21 years; 13 l p.a. Note: Reserving the lower room or rooms for 7 days in each year for use as booths during the St. Bartholomew Fair. 5 Feb. 1632. (Bring back such fairs!).
PROB 4/3817, Nathaniel Carter, of St Giles, Cripplegate, London, Citizen and White Baker of London, 24 May 1662.
PROB 4/9143, Henry Carter, of St. Giles in the Fields, Middx., Esq. 1697.
C 5/199/5, Bingley v Carter. Plaintiffs: Katherine Bingley widow. Defendants: Edward Carter and others. Subject: property in Drury Lane, St Giles in the Fields, Middlesex.
C 5/208/5, Lawson v Carter. Plaintiffs: George Lawson and others. Defendants: Edward Carter and others. Subject: property in Wargrave and St Giles in Fields, Berkshire and Middlesex. 1698.
Leicester and Rutland Record Office, DG39/271, Bond (i) Charles Fortescue, esq. Husbands Bosworth.(ii) Robert Carter, gent. St. Giles in the Fields, Middlesex Robert Lovet, esq., of Liscombe, Bucks. (i) bound to (ii) in the sum of £1200. 6 Nov. 1678.
DG39/271, N.R.O., Assignement: 1. Richard Spencer of London merchant & William Jennens of Long Wittenham co. Berks. esq. 2. Thomas Rowney of Oxford esq. 3. James Ward of London, esq., Edward Herris of London, merchant, Thomas Lathwell and William Morris of London gent, Samuel Biscopp of London clerk and John Carter of London merchant (1) assigns to (2) all the close or parcel of land called the Marshland in the parish of St. Giles in the Fields with edifices etc. Subject to specified trusts. 1 August 1695.
N.R.O. Holt 263. Declaration. By Mary Moore of St. Andrew, Holborn co. Middlesex widow. That £1500 secured by an indenture of mortgage 29 July Between Richard Spencer and William Jennens and Mary Moore and Charles Bludworth is the £1500 mentioned in a bond between William Jennens of Long Wittenham co. Berks, Richard Spencer and John Slack and Dame Mary Moore dated 4 November 1695.
C 6/280/8: Bludworth v Moore. Plaintiffs: Sir Thomas Bludworth, Dame Mary Moore and Edward Moore. Defendants: Sir John Moore and Francis Moore. Subject: money matters. 1682.
PROB 11/449/287, Will of Richard Spencer, Merchant of London, 14 Feb. 1699.
N.R.O. Assignment (1) Frances Ambler of London – widow To (2) William Lee of London – merchant For a marriage between (2) & Mary Ambler (daughter of (1) Of certain bonds owing to (1), & (1) constitutes (2) as attorney to collect the amounts The Bonds are: John Spencer of London – merchant bound to (1) in £400 (24.5. 1654) to repay £200 Simon Middleton of London – citizen & Thos. Sayer of Norwich – draper, bound to (1) in £600 to repay £300 (17.3.1654) Edward Palmer – cooper, & Thos Alcocke – merchant bound to (1) in £200 to repay £100 (5.4.1655) Robert Vavisor of London – citizen & merchant taylor, Robert Street of London – merchant & Henry Rawlins of St. Andrews Holborn – taylor, bound to (1) in £100 for repayment of £50 (14.10.1656). Thomas Jones of London – grocer, Thos. Willes of London – cooper, & Richard Smith of London – draper bound to (1) in £400 for repayment of £200, 20.4.1655.
To repeat: N.R.O. Add Mss 10,654, William Izard, of London, merchant (son of Charles Izard and Mary, his wife, and grandson of George Prior, late of Highgate, co. Middx., gent., dec’d.) to Edward Benson, of Westbourne, gent In consideration of £100 paid to William Izard out of the said property under the will of the said George Prior, dec’d., on reaching the age of 23 sic years Witnesses: Richard May, Charles Prior, John Spencer, and Robert Yeo, 16 Nov. 1687.
PROB 11/372/45, Will of William Izard, Draper of Saint Mary Savoy, Middlesex, 11 Jan. 1683.
C 7/113/121, Eales v Izard. Plaintiffs: Thomas Eales. Defendants: William Izard. Place or subject: property in Bishopsgate Street London, Middlesex.

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Parsons v Symes. Plaintiffs: John Parsons and others. Defendants: Charles Symes and August Symes his wife. Place or subject: estate of John Harris, Radstock, Somerset. (N.A., C 7/279/108. 1662). This John Harris was almost certainly the John Harris, bapt. Jan. 28, 1623, in Portbury, as follows.

As shown in a previous post, Sara Harris, m. Thomas Symes, 10 Nov. 1622, Radstock. The same post gave a probable relationship between Thomas Symes and the descendants of Thomas Harris, d. 1688, in Virginia.

Sarah Harris was bapt. 1 Nov. 1593, in Portbury, da. of Robert, who was bur. 1 Sep. 1594; and was the probable sister of:

(1) William Harris, who m. Mary Jennings, 22 Apr. 1622, in Portbury; their son being John Harris, bapt. Jan. 28, 1623; a neighbour of Thomas Davis of Virginia, who m. Isabell Wallis, 27 Oct. 1624; his younger br. John Davis, bapt. at Portbury, Jan. 1612; and Mary Davis, transported in 1653 to Virginia by Richard Jennings. Edward Harris, d. 1677, VA., owed money to the widow of John Davis; i.e. Mary Greene: The inventory of Edward Harris, d. 1677, states that he owed money to “Mrs Davis”; almost cartainly the wife of John Davis, Mary Greene; da. of Thomas Greene and Mary Moone, and cousin of Martha Greene, who m. Anthony Fuljames (Fulgham), of Pitminster. whose son, Michael Fulgham, m. Anne Izzard; having issue (1) Anne Fulgham, who m. Robert Harris, son of Thomas Harris, d. 1688. (2) Susannah Fulgham, m. Hardy Council, son of Hodges Council Jr. and Lucy Hardy. In IOW Court, January 11, 1672, Thomas Tooke (associated with Thomas Harris, d. 1672), as attorney, calls John Davis “his loving brother”.

(2) Thomas Harris, who m. Sara Pope, 2 May 1622, in Radstock. She was very likely to have been related to:

(1) Robert Pope, who m. Joan Blake, 6 Feb. 1622, in Wedmore; and she to Judith Blake, who m. Thomas Harris*, November 20, 1623 (he probably dying in Virginia, in 1672), at Wivelscombe, son of Elianor Bennett and Richard Harris, son of William Harris, who m. Dorothy West, Aug. 31, 1562, at Wivelscombe. *Second-cousin of Lucy Hardy, who m. Hodges Council; and her sister, who m. Richard Jackson; their da., Mary Jackson, m. Capt. George Hardy.

(2) Mary Pope, who m. Robert Lansdowne of Radstock, 19 Jun. 1637, in Wedmore.

John Tooke of Surry County; his will proved 15 February 1720, appointed John Parson and William Ezell executors and John Parson, Samuel Sebrell, and James Pyland as trustees. The Tooke family were tenants of the Symes (in Barwick, Somerset); the Symes being landlords of the Fulghams, in Pitminster. James Pyland was a headright of Francis England in 1642. (Nugent vol. 1, p. 140).

John Parson/Person was overseer of of the will of Francis England, of Blackwater, IOW, 13 May 1677. On 9 June 1666, George Hardy (overseer of will of Edward Harris, d. 1677) deeded Francis England 100 ac. where George Branch formerly lived. Thomas Carter later sold John Parsons 56 ac. which were formerly owned by George Branch, who was the son-in-law of Francis England and Joyce, da. of Robert Flake.

ARTHUR ALLEN LAND GRANTS AND CONNECTIONS

24 Aug. 1665, 1000 a. Surry Co., Lawnes Crk Par., adj. Blackwater Swamp, and Robert Flake for 20 persons (5:282).
20 Oct. 1691, 170 a. Isle Of Wight Co. adj. Mr Tooke, Capt. England, Thomas Blake, Edward Brantley formerly patented 20 Apr. 1685 to Robert Blake and by him deserted, regranted to Allen 17 Apr. 1691, for 4 persons (8:174).
29 Apr. 1692, 1000 a. Surry Co., Lawnes Creek Par., bounded S by Capt Lawrence Baker, deceased and Allen’s own land,SW by Robert Blake and John Pittford, W by Robert Blake’s 400 a. and Robert Caufield, N by William Newsom and Charles Jarrett for 20 persons (8:219).

Francis Hobbs (f-in-law of Thomas Harris, son of Thomas Harris, d. 1672), and wife Mary sold to Edward Brantly 675 ac. betwixt land of Thomas Tooke, Francis England, Col. Nathaniel Bacon and the orphans of Thomas Murray. Feb. 8, 1667. William Groves: appraisal by John Harris, Edward Brantley, Elias Fort, Edward Grantham. Presented by Mrs. Elinor Groves. R. Feb 9, 1678.

1. John Fiveash, m. Joyce Pettway, da. of Edward Pettway, as Will 27 Jan. 1686.
1.1. Thomas Fiveash. James Pyland witnesses the will of Thomas Fiveash, dated 4 Jan. 1725.
1.2. Peter Fiveash, appraisal 28 Apr 1702 by William Thomas, John Brantley, and Richard Hardy. Thomas Harris, Will recorded 13 Nov. 1672, appointing relict Alice as exc. Security John Newman and Edward Brantley.
1.2.1. Thomas Fiveash, m. (1712) Alice Harris, da. of John Harris. (DB. 7, p. 288). He was the son of Thomas Harris, d. 1672.
1.3. Francis Fiveash, m. Phillis Fort, da. of George Fort and Elizabeth Duckworth; she m. 2. Robert Symes.

The kinship connection of the Brantleys to such as the Councils was based on Hardy Council’s da., Mary, being the wife of William Brantley, son of Edward Brantley. The Hodges/Council family were of Wedmore, Somerset.

Thomas Harris, d. 1672, received a grant of 40 ac. in Iow, Aug. 14, 1652, at the head of Pagan Creek, bounded with his own land on the northeast, Francis Smith on the southwest, Thomas Pritchard on the southeast, and John Davis, as follows, on the northeast. John Davis, ob. ante 28 June 1714, m. Mary Green (da. of Thomas Greene and Mary Moone); ob. ante 23 Jan. The inventory of Edward Harris, d. 1677, shows him to owe money to a “Mrs. Davis”. John Davis, with wife Mary, sold to William Exum, 150 ac. in IOW (May 1659), witnessed by Thomas Moone and John Burwell. In IOW Court, January 11, 1672, Thomas Tooke, as attorney, calls him “his loving brother” – either a religious or a lineage relationship John and Mary Davis had issue: Sarah Davis, d. ob. ante 6 Jan. 1720, m. Nicholas Fulgham; of the family intermarried with that of Thomas Harris, d. 1688.

The Thomas Harris, d. 1672, Edward Harris, d. 1677; Thomas Harris, d. 1688, were closely related.

John Parson/Person Jr. d. in Surry Co., in 1738. On 10 March 1692, he m. Mary Partridge, da. of Thomas Partridge, having issue: John, d. 1752, Thomas, d. 1754*; Francis, d. 1758, m. Mary Turner, d. Granville Co., 1761, da. of Simon Turner; their son, William (Commissioner of Granville Co. with West Harris), d. 1816, m. Mary Thorpe, in 1757 (da. of Timothy Thorpe Jr. and Martha Peterson?); Joseph; William**; Benjamin; Samuel, d. 1754; Jacob; Mary. Elizabeth.

*Thomas’s will is recorded in Southampton Co. 11 July 1754; naming three children: Mary Person, who m. Jesse Williamson, of Brunswick Co., Elizabeth Person, who m. Simon Turner Jr. of Brunswick Co., and Thomas Person Jr. who m. Mary Delony of Mecklenburg Co., da. of Henry Delony and his first wife, Frances Jefferson, first cousin of Thomas Jefferson, President of the United States.

**William Person, d. bef. 15 May 1771 in Bute Co., NC., m. Ann Ridley, in Surry Co.

Allen of Mells, or Nunney (N) where stated.
1.
1.1. Robert Allin.
1.1.1. Richard Allin & Jane Chancellor, 20 November 1602, N.
1.1.1.1. Edward Allen & Agnes Tucker, 14 November 1608, N. Thus, kin of the Harris family of Nunney.
1.1.1.2. James Allen & Elizabeth Godwin, 4 June 1607.
1.2. Richard Allen & Ann George. (The Portbury connection).
1.2.1. Richard Allen & Hester Elliot, 18 Jul. 1619.
1.2.2. Mary Allen, bapt. 19 November 1587.
1.2.3. Rebecca Allen.
1.2.4. Henry Allen bapt. 22 December 1594, Mells, & Sarah Jefferies, 5 February 1622, & Ann Pitt, 17 February 1646, N.
1.2.5. Sarah Allen bapt. 23 May 1596, & Stephen Luckox, 14 November 1616.
1.2.5.1. Henry Luckcox, Jane Luckcox, James Luckcox, Thomas Luckcox, Edith Luckcox. John Harris, m. Charity Luckox, 13 Nov. 1587, Mells; her probable sister, Joan Luckox, m. John Hill, 4 Nov. 1578, in Mells. John Harris and Charity Luckox had issue, (1) Elizabeth Harris, bapt. 25 Oct. 1590, Mells, “da. of John”; who m. George Hill, 27 Jan. 1619; (2) Thomas Harris, bapt. 24 Mar. 1600, Mells, very likely he who m. Alice West, 1635, in Nunney, the parents of Thomas Harris, bapt. 14 Aug. 1636, in Nunney; brother of John Harris, bapt. 1640, in Nunney, who m. Margaret Beard, in 1664. The Symes family were intermarried with the family of Hill; the Beards with that of Bennett. A cousin of these Harris was a cousin of the Bennetts (and, as said, the Blakes) of Virginia; one of whom, Alice Bennett, m. John Hardy. Nugent, C&P vol. 1, p. 569: Mr. John Hardie 1150 acres IOW Co., 5 June 1666. Beginning at upper corner tree of Mathew Tomlin’s old land, running SSE by Wm. Westwrayers land &c. SW on Mathew Tomlins new land. John Hardy m. 2. Alice Tucker, widow of Arthur Allen. Alice Bennett’s sister m. Richard Jackson; their da., Mary Jackson, m. Capt. George Hardy, appraiser of the estate of Edward Harris, d. 1677. I would suggest that Nicholas Hill, who, on 30 Sept. 1664, patented 750 ac. in the Upper Parish, part of the estate of Edward Bennett, was a son of the said George Hill and Elizabeth Bennett. The John Harris, bapt. 1587 in Mells, was he (by process of elimination) who m. Mary Tomlin, 9 November 1620, in Mells, being bur. there in 1637.

Many of these families had intermarried for centuries. Everyone was the second cousin of everyone.

1.2.6. William Allen, bapt. 18 March 1604.
1.2.7. Richard Allin.
1.2.8. Alice Allen & Samuell Browne, 26 November 1618.
1.2.9. Thomas Allen & Sarah Mather, 12 June 1626.
1.2.9.1. Mr. Anthony Allen, bapt. 26 December 1627.
1.2.9.1.1. Thomas Allen, bapt. 28 March 1657.
1.2.9.1.2. Samuel Allen, bapt. 3 June 1662.
1.2.9.2. Mary Allen & William Massee, 23 November 1636, N.
1.2.9.3. Phillip Allan & Susan Chester, 8 July 1637 Susan.
1.2.9.4. Edward Allin & Joan Cornish 24 November 1639, N.
1.2.9.4.1. John Allen,bapt. 17 January 1640, N.
1.2.9.4.2. Robert Allen & Ann Yeoman , 1669, N.
1.2.9.4.2.1. Robert Allen, bapt. March 1672.
1.2.9.5. Edward Allen & Susanna Gibbins, 25 July 1642.
1.2.9.5.1. Robert Allen & Ann Millard, 10 November 1679.
1.2.9.5.2. Thomas Allen & Grace Sheppard 10 April 1694.
1.2.9.5.2.1. Thomas Allen, bapt. 2 May 1698.
1.2.9.4.3. Richard Allen.
1.2.9.4.3.1. William Allen, bapt. 6 Feb. 1664.

A William Allen’s estate was appraised 15 Sept. 1731; appraiser William Parsons; audited by William Tucker.

West Coker

1.
1.1. John Slade.
1.1.1. John Slade, m. Margaret Combe, 1613.
1.1.1.1. John Slade, m. Elizabeth …
1.1.1.1.1. Ann Slade, m. Roger Harris*, 20 May 1669, Nunney. The Slades (Richard and John) were tenants of John Symes in West Coker, c. 1600 – 1620. By 1665, the advowson of the church of West Coker was sold by Henry Symes, of Fampton, Glos., to four people, inc. John Slade, gent (DD\NNE\C/1375/7). Br. of Thomas, bapt. 14 August 1636, in Nunney, and John Harris, bapt. 1640, m. Margaret Beard, 1664, Nunney.
1.1.2. Richard Slade, bapt.7 Dec 1611.
1.1.3. George Slade.
1.1.3.1. William Slade, bapt. 12 Jan 1636.
1.2. Richards Slade, bur. 15 Sept. 1607.

Hemington, 4 miles fom Mells/Nunney

1. Richard Harris.
1.1. John Harris & Joan Bearde 26 Nov. 1584; thus kin of the Bennett family (John Harris, bapt. 1640 (br. of Thomas Harris, bapt. 1636) m. Margaret Beard, 1664, Nunney. Thomas Bennett, b. Nov. 11, 1603 at Wiveliscombe; m. Agnes Beard, July 17, 1623).
1.2. Alice Harris & John Tucker, 2 Jun. 1586; thus kin of Bullock family.
1.3. Elizabeth Harris & Willyam Smale (Small), 9 Nov. 1592.
1.3. William Harris & Marie Hales, 14 Sep. 1594, thus kin of the Hicks family.
1.3.1. John Harris, bapt. 10 Aug. 1603, & Edith Tilly.
1.3.1.1. William Harris, bapt. 12 Nov. 1637.
1.3.1.2. Thomas Harris, bapt. 6 Dec. 1640.
1.3.1.3. George Harris, bapt. 13 Nov. 1642.
1.3.2. Thomas Harris, bapt. 11 Jan. 1609.
1.3.2.1. Thomas Harris & Elizabeth Adams, 10 Apr. 1654.
1.3.3. William Harris, bapt. 7 Oct. 1610, & Joan.
1.3.3.1. Elizabeth Harris, bapt. 12 Jul. 1640.
1.3.3.2. William Harris, bapt. 16 Feb. 1642.
1.3.3.3. Ann Harris, bapt. 14 Dec. 1645, & William Persons (born 1649), 20 Sep. 1674.
1.3.3.3.1. William Persons, bapt. 28 Jun. 1675.
1.3.3.3.2. John Persons, bapt. 1676. (It is perhaps significant that a William Person was Timothy Thorpe’s son-in-law, Thorpe’s Will, rec. 13 Oct. 1763, being witnessed by James Ridley).
1.3.4. George Harris, bapt. 17 Dec. 1613.
1.3.5. Christiana Harris, bapt. 22 Mar. 1615, & Edward Edwards, 21 Nov. 1636.
1.3.6. Alice Harris & William Webb, 20 Nov. 1632.
1.3.7. Edward Harris, bapt. 31 Mar. 1616, & Mary.
1.3.7.1. Edward Harris, bapt. 30 Mar. 1656.
1.3.7.2. Elizabeth Harris, bapt. 7 Feb. 1653, m. Robert Wood, 4 Jul. 1672.
1.3.7.3. Mary Harris, bapt. 18 Aug. 1658, m. Samuel Willis, 7 Feb. 1686.
1.3.7.4. James Harris, bapt. 19 May 1662.
1.3.7.4.1. James Harris, bapt. 24 Mar 1704.
1.4. Thomas Harris & Margaret Longe, 28 Jan. 1607, she probably related to Eleanore Longe, who m.John Willis, 3 Nov. 1594.
1.4.1. Mary Harris, bapt. 8 Mar. 1609, & Edmond Short, 29 Nov. 1632.
1.4.2. Alice Harris & Philip West, 26 Nov. 1632.

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MELLS

A certain strand of Harris can be best viewed in their relationship (as tenants and cousins) of the Hill/Symes family of Pitminster. This strand was closely associated with other strands, and each married into the same families, making any projection of who they were in Virginia difficult. What follows is a chronological account of births, marriages, and deaths in four parishes – Hemington, Nunney, Mells, and Radstock – all within 7 miles of the other, in which Harris of one parish frequently married in a neighbouring one, depending on the relative social standing of parents. Other nearby parishes – Wedmore, Cheddar, and Wivelscombe are included, as they were also places of marriage of this Harris family. These notes are the raw data by which to form opinions; I have my own, often repeated; others may differ – the thing of importance is to approach Harris settlement in Virginia with eyes not misted over with visions of past constructs, clung to as straw.

1. Roger Hill, of Taunton.
1.1. William Hill, of Poundsford, in Pitminster Par. Somerset, m. 1. Ann Trowbridge.
1.1.1 Roger Hill, of Poundsford, m. Mary Hasard.
1.1.1.1. William Hill, of Poundsford, m. Jane Young, da. of John Young of Collumpton.
1.2. Robert Hill, of Yard, near Taunton, m. 1. Alice Clark.
1.2.1. Elizabeth Hill, m. William Symes of Chard, “merchant of Poundesford. He owned a mill in West Coker, lands in Taunton, and the manor of Barwick, where the Tooke family were tenants; the Fulghams being tenants in Pitminster. John Pyne, Esq., Roger Hill, Gent., and his bro. in l. Hugh Hill, Gent., were Supervisors of his Will.
1.2.1.1. John Symes, born 4 March 1572, Mells, m. Amy Horner, da. of Thomas Horner, of Mells. John Symes was M.P. for Somerset; and Sheriff in 1649. His Will mentions sons Henry and Thomas. He was the John Symes described in “Extract from Barwick and its Church’, by John Batten.
1.2.1.1.1.  Thomas Symes, 1621-1670, m. (3 June 1640) Amy Bridges, 1621-1662, da. of Edward Bridges Esq. (d. 1639), of Keynsham, by his wife Philippa Speke, d. 1628.
1.2.1.1.1.1. ‘John Symes late of Montserrat, West Indies’. Abstracts of Somersetshire Wills, p. 55
1.2.1.1.1.1.1. Richard Symes (See N&Q, 1890). ‘Rich’d Symes, late of Bristol, mariner’.
1.2.1.1.1.1.1.1. Adam Symes. (ibid.).
1.2.1.1.1.1.1.1.1. George Sims, of Brunswick Co.; d. Sept. 1763. He bought land from his br. John Sims, on 5 Nov. 1747.
1.2.1.1.1.1.1.1.1.1. Adam Sims, m. Elizabeth Walton, da. of George Walton of Brunswick Co., and who was, thus, the br.-in-law of Nathan Harris, grandson of Thomas Harris, d. 1688, and br. of West Harris. The Waltons were of the squirarchy of Somerset, and sat in judgement at Taunton Assizes, with others of their class – Davis, Symes, Hardy, Hodges, Horner, Lancaster, Jones, et al.
1.2.1.2. Thomas Symes, m. Sara Harris, 10 Nov. 1622, in Radstock, da. of Robert Harris, who was bur. 1 Sep. 1594, in Portbury. He is evidenced in Dole v Symes. Plaintiffs: Thomas Dole, yeoman. Defendants: Elizabeth Symes of Radstock, Thomas Symes her son, Richard Brooke alias Richard Thomas of Barrow Gurney, yeoman, John Brooke his father, John Stibbens, yeoman, and others. Subject: Acton by the said Elizabeth Symes for a debt of the said Richard Brooke and John Stibbens, assumed by plaintiff Thomas Dole in consideration of a sale of land in Dundry, which proved to be previously mortgaged. May 1621. STAC 8/121/5. Charles Symes also held property in Radstock, see N.A. C 7/450/93, 1662.

Margery Harris, m. John Allin, 8 Jun. 1567, Mells.
John Harris, m. Joan Stubbs, 10 Feb. 1569, Wedmore.
Thomas Harris, m. Elinor Butt, 26 May 1581, Cloford.
John Harris, m. Ann Holway, 3 Jul. 1581, Cloford.
Thomas Harris,* bapt. 3 Feb. 1582, Nunney, son of John.
Elizabeth Harris, m. Thomas Gibbs, 17 May 1582, Cloford.
Joan Harris, m. Robart Hurle, 28 April 1583, Cloford.
Joan Harris, m. John Beardes, 26 Nov. 1584, Hemington.
Alice Harris, m. John Tucker, 2 Jun. 1586, Hemington.
John Harris, m. Charity Luckox, 13 Nov. 1587, Mells, the Luckox family being intermarried with that of Hill – John Hill, m. Katherine Luckox, 9 Nov. 1567; John Hill m. Joan Luckox, 4 Nov. 1578, in Mells. The John Harris who m. Charity Luckox was buried in Mells in 1620. They had issue: Elizabeth Harris, bapt. 25 Oct. 1590, Mells, “da. of John”; m. George Hill, 27 Jan. 1619; Ann Harris, bapt. 29 Apr. 1593, Mells, “da. of John”; m. William Clark, 3 Jun. 1616, Mells; Joan Harris, bapt. 3 Jun. 1616, Mells, “da. of John”; m. Richard Williams, 4 Jun. 1627, Mells; Thomas Harris, bapt. 24 Mar. 1600, Mells, “son of John”; William Harris, bapt. 3 Oct. 1602, Mells, “son of John”, and father of William Harris, bapt. 12 Jan. 1637, Mells; Charity Harris, bapt. 24 Feb. 1604, “da. of John”.
John Harris, bapt. 17 Feb. 1588, Mells, “son of John”, br. of Thomas Harris, bapt. 3 Feb. 1582, in Nunney (bur. there 7 Mar. 1668), m. Mary Tomlin, 9 Nov. 1620, Mells; he had not m. Grace Hannie in 1608, she being bur. in 1643 as widow Harris. John Harris was bur. on 3 Aug. 1637, in Nunney. The Thomas Harris who m. Alice West, in Oct. 1635, was either the Thomas Harris, bapt. 24 Mar. 1600, in Mells, aforesaid, or (as perhaps a second wife) the Thomas Harris, bapt. 3 Feb. 1582, in Nunney. Either was the father of Thomas Harris, bapt. 14 Aug. 1636, in Nunney; brother of John Harris, bapt. 1640, in Nunney, who m. Margaret Beard* (1664), father of John Harris, bapt. 24 Jun. 1667; Roger Harris, bapt. 3 Jun. 1642, in Nunney; Katherine Harris, bapt. 27 Jun. 1643, in Nunney; Ann Harris, bapt. 21 Oct. 1646, in Nunney; who m. Robert Millard, May 1667, in Nunney, bapt. 11 Sep. 1625, in Nunney, the son of Francis Millard. The Millards were primarily of Wedmore, where they were intermarried with families of Lansdown (see as follows), and Voules; the Voules seam running through many families: Blake, House, Jennings, Sayard, etc. *See as follows: Thomas Bennett, b. Nov. 11, 1603 at Wiveliscombe; m. Agnes Beard, July 17, 1623.
Mary Harris, m. John Numan, 29 Sep. 1588, Cloford.
Mary Harris, m.John Young, 21 Oct. 1588, Mells.
Thomas Harris, m. Ursula Shepperd, 6 Feb. 1589, Cloford.
Elizabeth Harris, m. Thomas Baylye, 3 May 1589, Mells.
Richard Harris, bapt. 24 Aug 1589, Nunney.
Elizabeth Harris, m. Willyam Smale, 9 Nov. 1592, Hemington.
Richard Harris, bapt. 8 Jan. 1592, Nunney.
Richard Harris, bur. 19 Dec. 1593, Nunney.
William Harris, m. Marie Hales, 14 Sep. 1594, Hemington.
Thomas Harris, bapt. 10 Jun. 1595, Mells.
Thomas Harris, bur. 3 Feb. 1596, Mells.
William Harris, m. 16 Apr. 1599, Hemington, issue being: John Harris, bapt. 10 Aug. 1603, Thomas Harris, bapt. 11 Jan. 1609; William Harris, bapt. 7 Oct. 1610; George Harris, bapt. 17 Dec. 1613; and Edward Harris, bapt. 31 Mar. 1616.
Thomas Harris, bapt. 24 Mar. 1600, Mells.
John Harris, m. Joan Collier, 19 Jul. 1601, Nunney; issue: William Harris, bapt. 3 Oct. 1602, Mells.

Charity Harris, bapt. 24 Feb. 1604, Mells.
WilliaM Harris, bapt. 3 Oct. 1602, Mells; father of William Harris, bapt. 12 Jan. 1637, Mells.
*Thomas Harris, m. Margaret Longe, 28 Jan. 1608, Hemington.
Alice Harris, bapt. 22 May 1608, Mells, da. of John Harris.
Maria Harris, bapt. 18 Mar. 1609, Hemington, da. of Thomas.
William Harris, bapt. 7 Oct. 1610, Hemington, son of William.
John Harris, d. 1625, m. Penelope Millard, 9 Sept. 1611, Wedmore; parents of Robert Harris, father of Edward Harris, bapt. 8 Aug. 1624, Wedmore, “son of Robert”. Robert may have been noted on Lawne’s Creek; 26 October 1646: “James Tooke to Robert Harris, all my right and title to this lease”. John Harris was the br. of Thomas Harris, whose son was Thomas Harris, bapt. 31 Dec. 1637, Cheddar, ‘son of Thomas’. The cousins, Edward and Thomas Harris were nephews of John Harris, who m. Agnes Coomer, and, as such, were kin of the Counsell family of Wedmore, from whece almost certainly arose Hodges Counsel of Virginia; the Hodges being squires of Wedmore.
George Harris, bapt. 17 Dec. 1613, Hemington, son of William.
William Harris, bapt. 9 Jan 1614, Hemington, son of Thomas.
Christiana Harris,* bapt. 22 Mar. 1615, Hemington, da. of Thomas.
Edward Harris, bapt. 21 May 1615, Cloford, son of Thomas.
Anne Harris, m. William Clarke, 3 Jun. 1616, Mells.
John Harris, bur. 13 Oct. 1616, Mells.
Thomas Harris, bapt.7 May 1618, Cloford, son of Thomas.
Elizabeth Harris, m. George Hill, 27 Jan. 1619, Mells.
John Harris, bur. 2 Apr. 1620, Mells.
John Harris, m. Mary Tomlin, 9 Nov. 1620, Mells.
Thomas Harris, m. Sara Pope, 2 May 1622, Radstock.
Sara Harris, m. Thomas Symes, 10 Nov. 1622, Radstock.

She was bapt. 1 Nov. 1593, in Portbury, da. of Robert, who was bur. 1 Sep. 1594; and was the probable sister of William Harris, who m. Mary Jennings, 22 Apr. 1622, in Portbury; their son being John Harris, bapt. Jan. 28, 1623; a neighbour of Thomas Davis of Virginia, who m. Isabell Wallis, 27 Oct. 1624; his younger br. John Davis, bapt. at Portbury, Jan. 1612; and Mary Davis, transported in 1653 to Virginia by Richard Jennings. Edward Harris, d. 1677, VA., owed money to the widow of John Davis; i.e. Mary Greene: The inventory of Edward Harris, d. 1677, states that he owed money to “Mrs Davis”; almost cartainly the wife of John Davis, Mary Greene; da. of Thomas Greene and Mary Moone, and cousin of Martha Greene, who m. Anthony Fuljames (Fulgham), of Pitminster. whose son, Michael Fulgham, m. Anne Izzard; having issue (1) Anne Fulgham, who m. Robert Harris, son of Thomas Harris, d. 1688. (2) Susannah Fulgham, m. Hardy Council, son of Hodges Council Jr. and Lucy Hardy. In IOW Court, January 11, 1672, Thomas Tooke (associated with Thomas Harris, d. 1677), as attorney, calls John Davis “his loving brother”.

Joane Harris, m. Richard Williams, 4 Jun. 1627, Mells.
Thomas Harris, bur. 21 Jun. 1627, Cloford.
William Harris, bapt. 9 Dec. 1627, Nunney, son of Richard.
Thomas Harris, m. Elenor Jefferies, 28 Jul. 1628, Cloford.
John Harris, bapt. 29 Jan. 1629, son of Thomas.
Alce Harris, m. Philipp West, 26 Nov. 1632, Hemington; thus being aligned to families of Hickes and Davis: Dorithy Hickes m. Walter West, 8 Nov. 1655; Thomas Hickes m. Mary Davis, 15 Feb. 1657; John Davis m. Marie Dowling, 26 Sep. 1594.
Mary Harris, m. Edmond Short, 29 Nov. 1632, Hemington.
Richard Harris, bapt. 6 Mar. 1636, Radstock, son of Richard and Jane.
*Christian Harris, m. Edward Edwards, 21 Nov. 1636, Hemington.
William Harris, bapt. 12 Jan. 1637, Mells.
John Harris, bur. 3 Aug. 1637, Nunney.
Edward Harris, m. Eleonor …, 15 Oct. 1640, Cloford. Edward Harris was bapt. 21 May 1615, son of Thomas Harris. He m. Elionor, 15 Oct. 1640, having issue: Edward Harris, bapt. 14 March 1645; John Harris, bapt. 6 January 1648; 3. William Harris; bapt. 3 March 1651. Edward Harris Sr. was the br. of 1. Thomas Harris, bapt. 7 May 1618. It can not be determined if he was the Thomas bur. 10 May 1664, or 14 March 1670. 2. Marry Harris, bapt. 8 Nov 1621, who m. James Beard, 9 September 1651. It can not be determined who was the Thomas Harris, bapt. 31 May 1674, son of a Thomas Harris. James Beard was bapt. 2… June 1631, in Nunney, son of James Beard, bapt. 6 November 1603, son of Roger Beard, and sister of Frances Beard, bapt. 1602, who m. Henry Stone, in 1624, in Nunney.

Thomas Bennett,* b. Nov. 11, 1603 at Wiveliscombe; m. Agnes Beard, July 17, 1623, cousin of (1) Alice Bennett, who m. John Hardy. Nugent, C&P vol. 1, p. 569: Mr. John Hardie 1150 acres IOW Co., 5 June 1666. Beginning at upper corner tree of Mathew Tomlins old land, running SSE by Wm. Westwrayers land &c. SW on Mathew Tomlins new land; their da. Lucy Hardy, m. Hodges Council; Alice bennett’s sister m. Richard Jackson, who patented 450 acres in IOW adjacent to Justinian Cooper. Their da., Mary Jackson, m. Capt. George Hardy, who patented 500 acres on July 17, 1648 ‘lying on east side of Lawne’s Creek extending to main river and along the great river to the creek dividing the same from land of Alice Bennett’. On 19 June 1666, he made a deed to land which belonged to his wife Mary whom he refers to as the ‘daughter of Richard Jackson, dec.’. Her sister, Sarah Jackson, m. Col. Arthur Smith II. George Hardy was an appraiser of the estate of Edward Harris, d. 1677. (2) Thomas Harris, who m. Judith Blake, November 20, 1623, at Wivelscombe, son of Elianor Bennett, who m. Richard Harris, son of William Harris, who m. Dorothy West, Aug. 31, 1562, at Wivelscombe.

Thomas Harris, m. Susan Lansdowne, 9 Jun. 1656, Radstock, their son being John Harris, husbandman, bapt. 18 Aug 1664, who m. Sarah Savige, 4 Jun. 1696, their sons being Thomas Harris, bapt. 16 Oct. 1697, and John Harris, bapt. 28 Nov. 1699.
Thomas Harris, bapt. 6 Dec. 1640, Hemington, son of John and Edith.
Thomas Harris, bapt. 6 Dec. 1640, Hemington, son of John and Edith.
George Harris, bur. 3 Sep. 1643, Hemington, son of John and Edith.
Edward Harris, bapt. 30 Mar. 1656, Hemington, son of Edward and Mary.
Mary Harris, bapt. 18 Aug. 1658, da. of Edward and Mary; m. Samuel Willis, 7 Feb. 1686.
James Harris, bapt. 19 May 1662, son of Edward and Mary.

copyright m stanhope 2017

Genealogy is a great begetter of romance. The origins of the Macleods of Lewis are woven in a deceptive thread, its design to give the impression that they stemmed from Leod (pronounced ‘lodge’ in Scottish Gaelic); the eldest son of King Olave the Black, brother of Magnus, the last king of Man; this honour being shared by two brothers, Tormod, the progenitor of the Macleods of Harris, and Torquil, of those of Lewis.

This thread is so thin that it would snap in a breeze, and is wholly typical of the ‘pedigree building’ so beloved by the Victorians. Even (the otherwise laudible) historian of Scotland, William Anderson, after admitting “there is no authority whatever for such a descent”, quoting learned authorities, carried on to allow it on the basis that these clan founders both had Norwegian names!

The earliest reference to the Macleods of Lewis is contained in a royal charter dated to circa 1343, when King David II. granted to Torkyll M’Cloyd the four davochlands of Assynt. A Pictish davach was a rough measure of land for both fiscal and military purposes. Its holders were expected to do service in the Scottish army for six weeks a year, but in the western fiords of Scotland this servive could be exchanged for naval service.

The Macleods held Assynt as vassals of the Macdonalds of Islay. In time, their lands stretched from the islands of Lewis, Raasay, the district of Waternish on Skye, and, on the mainland, as well as Assynt, Coigach and Gairloch.

The granting of these lands seem to be a confirmation of a grant by David’s father, Robert, and can be seen in the context of his Irsh Campaign, conducted between 1315 and 1318, and his need to increase naval power to counter English control of the North Channel. The Macleods of Lewis were, thus, mercenaries of the Scottish Crown.

To redeem Mr. Anderson, his account (in ‘The Scottish Nation’, 1863) of the Machivellian nature of Anglo-Scottish politics of these times aptly places the role of the Macleods of Lewis in context: “It is historically known that in 1369, the year before his death, that monarch (David II.) proceeded in person, at the head of a formidable expedition, against the rebellious lord of the Isles (John MacDonald/Eòin Mac Dòmhnuill), and compelled him and his vassal chiefs, at Inverness, to submit to his authority. One of the means employed by him on this occasion to effect that purpose, and to keep the rude northern chiefs to the obedience of the laws, was the promise of rewards and the bestowal of lands, on some of the principal of them. It is even said, (Fordm a Goodal, vol. ii. p. 380,) that he used artifice to divide them and induce them to slay or capture one another. Certain it is, that it was in this reign that the practice of bonds of manrent or friendship among the chiefs and nobles began”.

Monroe (in his ‘Description of the Western Isles’,1549), gives accounts of lands held by the Macleods of Lewis:

“At the shore of Watternesse lyes ane ile callit Isa, ane faire laiche maine ile, inhabit and manurit, verey fertill and fruitfull for corne and gerssing, ane myle lange and haffe myle braid, having beside it ane uther laiche ile full of sheepe. This ile is guid for fishing, quhilk perteins to M’Cloyd of the Lewis”.

“On the eist shore of Watternesse lyes ane ile callit Elian Askerin (the Ascrib Isles) abounding in gressing and pasture, maire usit for sheilling and pasture than for corne land, guid for fishing and slaughter of selchies, pertaining to M’Cloyd of Lewis”.

The lands of Assynt were held Torkyll Macleod of Lewis, who was described as a “fugityve fra the lawis” in 1502, and had his lands conficated, and Malcolm Macleod, who, in 1511, was granted all that had been possessed by his family, and additionally included the castle of Stornochway, i.e. Stornaway (Gregory, pp. 72, 73. 14 Reg. Sec. Sig., vol. xv. fol. 77). Their relationship to the grantee of 1343 is unknown.

The fall of this clan and the loss of the Isle of Lewis was a result of feuds with other clans. What is dressed in a fiction, that only such as Robert Louis Stevenson may have imagined – a chieftain divorcing his adulterous wife; his ensuing battle with her bastard son; his imprisonment by him, monstrous treacheries – hides the fact of a successorship struggle to land and power, wherein patricide and fratricide were common accompaniments.

William Buchanan (in his Historical and Genealogical Essay, pp. 73-5, 1820), also gives a romantic account of the Macleod’s later struggles, which is also free of the bloody undertones of reality:

“In the reign of king James VI. (1566-1625) that (Roderick) MacLeod of Lewis had the misfortune of falling into some disloyal practices, for which he was forfeited. King James having a design of civilizing and improving that large and fertile island, thought that a fit opportunity of falling on that project, and in order thereto, gave a grant of the Lewis to certain gentlemen of the shire of Fife, for payment of a small sum of fen-duty, and some other casualties.

MacLeod of Lewis dying, these gentlemen thought to get their design with all facility accomplished, but were very far disappointed; for notwithstanding that they built pretty good houses near one another, in the form of a village, for their mutual defence, yet Murdo MacLeod, bastard son to MacLeod of Lewis, with some of his father’s tenants and dependants, assaulted the Fife lairds in their village, and having fired their houses, obliged them all to become his prisoners, and for preservation of their lives, to swear, that with the utmost diligence they would abandon the island, and never return, which was punctually performed. The king finding this method would not do, gave in a short time thereafter a grant of Lewis to the Earl of Seaforth”.

In reality, the (Mackenzie) Earl of Seaforth conquered Lewis as a Crown agent, the background to this being that the crown-rents of Lewis were unpaid, and an act of parliament was passed, in June 1598, to confiscate Macleod lands.

Niel Macleod took (his brother) Murdo Macleod prisoner, and delivered him to the authorities; Murdo being subsequently hanged at St Andrews. In return, Niel obtained a pardon at Edinburgh, and was promised a portion of his father’s lands by the chief of the Mackenzies, which did not transpire. Niel Macleod and his partisans rose in rebellion; attacking the settlements of the invaders, and killing most of them. The rebellion eventually failed; Niel Macleod was captured (possibly with the collusion of relatives), and executed in Edinburgh in April 1613.

The relationship between these Macleods and the following MacLeods (if any) can not be known. These latter Macleods are mentioned in depositions of 1805, concerning the boundaries between Lewis and Harris.

1. “Duncan McInnes, tenant at Kirkibost of Lewis, depones that he is eighty years of age … that he has for these last sixty-eight years lived in the farm of Kirkibost … that he does not remember how long he has held lands from the family of Seaforth, but that he has done so since the death of his father”.

2. “John McKay, residenter at Gisla, aged sixty-seven years, depones that he is the identical John McKay who was servant upwards of forty years ago to Murdo McLeod at Kenresort … depones that he saw a particular stone that stood erect at the top of Eeuntom-na-laig Aird … depones that Donald Macleod, son of Murdo Macleod at Kenresort, was the person that took it out of its place and brought it to Kenresort … depones that Murdo Macleod, his master, and Donald Macleod before mentioned, attended by the deponent, carried the stone to Stornoway,and produced the same to George McKenzie, then chamberlain of Lewis, and Dr McKenzie at Stornoway, who after inspecting it, ordered it to be carried back and placed at Eeuntom-na-laig Aird”.

3. “Donald M’Aulay, at Bunavonedder, in the forrest of Harris … aged eighty years depones that he saw a stone … of an oblong form, light blue; which according to general report, had been placed as a march-stone at a remote period … depones that it was surrounded by heath and moss, and one end of it inserted in the earth: that it was an uncommon stone, with four regular sides, but broader than thick … depones that he saw and was present when Malcolm Campbell deprived Murdo M’Leod of his dog and gun … his reason for doing so was that Murdo M’Leod had been guilty of poaching on the Harris side of the march on former occasions … that Murdo M’Leod, who succeeded his father as sub-forester of Harris, informed the deponent that was the line of march … that Murdo M’Leod informed him of this about 40 years ago”.

4. “John Mackay, born c. 1738, lived at Kinresort, where he worked for Murdo Macleod, forester at Uig, until c. 1765. He relocated to Linshader where he spent thirty years until returning to Kinresort for seven years before moving again to live in Gisla”.

5. “Angus M’Leod, tenant at Brenish, aged sixty years, depones that he was born in the parish of Uig, and has resided there ever since … depones that his father Ewen M’Leod is now living at Brenish, and is aged eighty-nine years, and has resided in the parish of Uig, either on the farm of Brenish or Mialasta all the days of his life. Depones, That his father told him that the march betwixt Lewis and Harris commenced at the mouth of the water of Resort, and proceeded by the water of Chlairbeg to Braidhanfhiachlachan”.

(The Uig chessmen, named after the bay where they were found, are a group of 12th century Viking chess pieces, carved in walrus ivory).

On first consideration, these Macleods were of a fixed and distinct geographical location, centred around Uig, but this was not so. From the 1790s, the Seaforth-owned Parish of Uig was rented out as sheep farms. In the early 1820s, evicted Seaforth tenants were moved to waste land at Aird Tong. In the following year, Alexander Craig, a Seaforth Estate manager visited Aird Tong and was appalled by what he saw:

“Until I saw the actual situation of the new cottars at Aird Tong I had no idea of the great hardships and deprivation that the poor people had to endure. The situation of the new cottars at Aird Tong at this moment beggars all description. It is even worse than anything I ever saw in Donegal, where I always considered human wretchedness to have reached the very acme.There were no tracks, far less roads, to the new settlement and its occupants had literally to step to their knees in mud once they stepped outside their thresholds”.

It can not be known if the Macleods of Tong were of the same flock as those of Uig.

(Those of the latter place are now of note for their connection to Mary Anne Macleod, the mother of President Trump. Her immediate ancestry is briefly given thus:

1. Keneth Macleod, b. 1776, & Catherine MacIver.
1.1. William MacLeod, crofter/fisherman, 1806-1869.
1.1.1. Alexander MacLeod, crofter/fisherman, died in Tong in 1900.
1.1.1.1. Malcolm MacLeod, crofter/fisherman & Mary Smith, married 1891.
1.1.1.1.1. Mary Anne Macleod, b. 10th May 1912 at Tong, 3-4 miles from Stornoway, and 1 coatal mile from Aird of Tong.
1.2. Murdo Macleod, b. 1810, & Mary Murray).

What is certain is that Mary Anne Macleod’s ancestors would have been spellbound by the trial of Malcolm Macloud, of Knock (in) Uig; conducted in 1838 before Judge Lord Cockburn, in Stornoway; as reported by Archibald Campbell Swinton, in Reports of Cases Before the High Court and Circuit Courts of Justicary in Scotland, vol. 2., 1842:

The charge: “In so far as on the 27th January 1838, within or near to the house situated at Clete, on the lands of Bayble … in the parish of Knock (in) Uig … (he) did wickedly and feloniously attack and assault the now deceased Henrietta M’Leod, his wife, and did seize her by the face, and did, with his hand … violently compress her mouth and nostrils, so as to prevent her from breathing, and did throw her down upon the ground … and did press forcibly with his knee upon her back … and did thereby break three of her ribs, and did continue to compress her mouth and nostrils.

(Malcolm M’leod) stated that he was thirty-four years of age, and that he married the deceased, Henrietta M’Leod, in the month of May or June 1829, by whom he had three children, boys. After their marriage they lived very happily together, but within the last three years they did not live so happily, which arose in consequence of a coolness on her part, from time to time, towards him — she not appearing to be so much attached to him as formerly — in which she was encouraged by some of her relations who lived near them. He stated further, that she had expressed to him that she wished him dead, and was indifferent though he should leave her altogether. On one occasion … his wife was cutting potatoes in the house, while he was giving a lesson to some of his neighbour’s children in Gaelic: she ordered him to go out and work at the labouring of the land, or she would stab him; upon which he went and called in two elders, to be evidence against his wife for threatening him. One night also, whilst he was in bed with his wife, he found her pressing him upon his breast with her elbow, by which he was awakened out of his sleep, in consequence of the pain, which he felt for some time afterwards. He told her she meant to take away his life, which she denied. She went to her father’s house, taking with her the infant child, and did not return to her own house for four or five days.

There came some blood from his wife’s mouth and nose, before he took his hands off her face. He stated that he thought he was only about five or six minutes, in accomplishing the act of putting an end to his wife’s existence. On finding life was extinct, he lifted her into the bed in which he and she usually lay, and laid her down upon her back therein, and washed her face, which was dirty from the dust of the floor, upon which she fell, when he had seized her, as before described. He washed her face from water that was in a metal pot, and took a towel or rubber to dry her face with. As he was just done, he heard his mother-in-law rapping at the door, upon which he put the pot and towel below the bed on which his wife’s corpse lay, and went and opened the door. Previous to committing the act, he had secured the door, by putting up a spade or stick as a prop; his children were out at the time, but he did not put them out. It was about sunset when he committed the deed; and it was not just dark, but nearly so, when his mother-in-law came to the door.

In his second Declaration (he) stated that he adhered to what he had previously said, except that he regretted having said so much against his wife for her treatment of him, because she has departed this life, and cannot now answer for herself. He stated further, that the deceased had a red worsted shawl upon her at the time he took away her life, which he tightened round her neck, the sooner to hasten her death. All that she was able to say, after he commenced taking away her life was,—” Let me alone.” For sometime previous to his committing the act, he knew that she was with child to him; but at the moment he did the deed that circumstance did not occur to him“.

Catherine M’Donald, wife of Malcolm M’Donald, fisherman, “I knew the deceased Henrietta M’Leod, who lived next door to me. (Malcolm M’leod) was reckoned a religious man; be was once a schoolmaster. The deceased was of a mild temper”.

Isabella M’aulay (see deposition of 1805, no. 3, heretofore) or M’leod, residing at Clete: “I am the mother of the deceased. We lived very near each other. I last saw my daughter in life on a Saturday, about breakfast time. This was the same day she died. I went in the afternoon, and found the door fastened. I knocked at the door, but could not get entrance, and I went back, believing my daughter to be praying. I went again shortly after, ind the door was still fastened. 1 knocked with some force … after (Malcolm M’leod) came to the door. He did not say a word until we came to the inner room, when he said, “Henrietta has nothing to say now — she cannot speak.” I looked for my daughter, and saw her laying across the bed, and put my hand on her Person and ascertained she was dead. I then called out to (Malcolm M’leod), “Henrietta is dead”. The brother and sister of the deceased then came to the house. The brother, Roderick M’leod, said to (Malcolm M’leod), “As sure as Henrietta is dead you will die also.” (Malcolm M’leod) then came to me, and, patting me on the shoulder, said, “Don’t you know that I was good to her?”

Gordon (representing Malcolm M’leod), proposed to ask the witness, whether she knew a son of (Malcolm M’leod’s) uncle who was insane at times. Some discussion took place as to the competency of the question, in the course of which Lord Cockburn observed, that it had been decided, in the House of Lords, that it was incompetent, in a civil cause, to lead evidence that the alleged insanity was hereditary. The witness did not know (Malcolm M’leod’s) uncle or his family.

Roderick M’leod, tenant of Totteranach: “l am the brother of the deceased. I heard the deceased complain that (he) did not work for his family; he did not fish with his neighbours, though he was under an engagement to do so all the season. She said he had lost his character in consequence. I saw my sister on the bed dead; (he) was standing by, and said it would be a great loss to him to want her. The body was warm about the breast at this time … About an hour afterwards I saw some marks on the face of the deceased — some scratches about the mouth and cheek. There was some blood about the teeth. I have known (Malcolm M’leod) for twelve years … and never considered him to be of unsound mind. He was unkind and uncharitable towards his wife (having) feelings of jealousy, which were unfounded. (He) made a curious piece of workmanship of wood, in the parish of Uig; it was like a cart-wheel, and was said to be intended for private prayer. This was all his wife said about it. He prayed inside the circle of the wheel; the sharp ends of the nails were up, as the deceased told me, and I myself saw afterwards the places where they had been. This was about five years ago. I heard that he got up in church one Sunday, and spoke to the minister; the deceased said so; this happened six or seven years ago. The words he used were, “I am tired of you, you devil!” meaning the minister … The deceased was very sorry for this, as it would injure her husband’s character. (He) told her that he was discovering the perpetual motion, and that if he had got the materials he would have made the discovery; he wanted loadstone. (He) also said he was engaged in some plan for propelling vessels without wind or tide. This plan was tried on a small boat last winter, (he) having made machinery for it. He wrote a great deal about the perpetual motion. As a religious man, (he) thought himself better than other people. He left the church, and some people called on him privately to receive instruction from him”.

George Stewart, tenant in Big Park: “I am second cousin of the deceased. On the night when the deceased was lying dead on the bed, (he) was wringing his hands, and said he was an object that night. Some people asked him how she got to the bed; he answered that she got to the bed herself. There were some scratches on her face, and something like blood on her teeth. I have known (him) for four or five years. I never thought him wrong in his mind, except one day. That was about four years ago, on a Sabbath in the harvest time, when 1 saw him going to the river with a bed-cover about him. He spread the cover on the water twice, and then wrapt it about his person. I did not speak to him. He and I have frequently lived together. We fished together for twenty days last year, and he conducted himself like the first of the crew”.

Roderick Adam, mason, in Stornaway: “I acted as assistant to the constable in the apprehension of (him). There is no jail in Stornoway, and I assisted to keep him in a house. He spoke about the crime, and confessed that it was himself did it. He said he took his wife by the mouth and nose with his hand, that she fell forward towards the fire, and he gave her two or three chops with his knee on the back. He said she did not live above four or five minutes, that he next got some water to wash away the ashes and blood off her face, that he might conceal it. He said she did not get time to speak — five minutes was the longest time the whole took. He made no remark as to the cause of his murdering his wife”.

The following letter, written by Malcolm Macleod to his brother, after his apprehension, was then proved, and read to the Jury. “February 5, 1838. My Dear Brother,I must leave you under the law of the kingdom for my great sins against heaven and earth, which cannot be suffered without punishment, whatever the Lord in mercy do to my sinful soul through eternity. My great black and scarlet sin is before him. What can I say to you, but I have a low eye and trembling heart, and a low hope that the Lord have mercy on me a cursed poor man. Because that every man may ask his own possession, I must tell you, so far as I can, few things was between me and merchants in Stornoway. I hope that you will do a duty, and pay them with the things which I left. You will be so good as speak to Mr. John Mackenzie, the merchant, Stornoway”. Malcolm Macleod. Addressed — Mr. Angus Macleod, Port Vallon, parish of Uige or Knock, Stornoway.

The following translation of a letter written by Malcolm M’leod in Gaelic to his brother-in-law, was also proved and read:

“February 6th, 1838. Dear Friend, I am now bound with the good laws of the kingdom, for my heinous sins, in the presence of God and of men. I now cnnfess with sorrow and shame the thing for which I am deserving of being in chains of darkness till the great day of judgment. Death and eternity are now before me; my burden is too heavy, my hands are red and corrupted with blood, and my fingers with iniquity. I am now under the curse; my sins were great before, but now much greater. Little is my confession worth, unless Jesus Christ will have great mercy on me in these short minutes. My eye is towards God through Christ, this day, that he may have mercy on me a lost sinner, even the chief of the blackest of sinners. Oh, it would be honourable to me this day, that she had been living, and I dead: not that I should live these few short days under great disgrace. My eye is towards the Lord this day. I pray thee, from the brink of Jordan, that you nor any other will not impute my sins to my poor children; but that you will shew them mercy for the sake of the Lord, and that you will set a godly example before them in the days of their youth. Sorrowful I am; but although you should not remember me to them, remember the Redeemer to them; wheresoever they go, they are under his care”. Malcolm Macleod. Addressed — Mr. Roderick Macleod, Tenant at Bayble.

Catherine M’leod, residing at Clete: “I am Malcolm Macleod’s sister. He sometimes spoke of his wife in a violent manner, but I never heard him say he was jealous of her. The deceased, however, said that her husband was jealous of her, and told me a story of her husband having sworn her on the Bible. She said he had made her go down on her knees, and swear on a Bible that she never had connection with any other man. The deceased was much grieved at this conduct; she was a circumspect and virtuous wife. I never saw the wheel which he had made, but I saw something of the pulpit he had. The deceased used often to speak of the pulpit, and said it was a verv curious idea”.

Rev. Mr. M’kenzie, Knockbain: “I had a school in Stornoway some years since. (He) attended the school for about half a year in 1824 or 1825. He was learning a little English, to qualify himself for being a Gaelic teacher. He was of a mild and gentle disposition; he did not manifest any particular quickness or slowness at school. When he left the school, (he) wrote a letter to me, which appeared to have been written in blood. He called on me in the spring of 1833 or 1834, and intimated that he had discovered the perpetual motion. 1 was a little astonished, but I knew that (he) had fanciful and peculiar ideas on religious subjects. In the same year he wished me to apply to the member for the county, to procure for him fourteen or twenty-eight pounds weight of loadstone, which was to be the moving power in the machine for the perpetual motion. The member for the county was his landlord”.

Dr. Chisholm, Inverness: “I am aware that insanity is generally divided into four sections — moral insanity, mania, monomania, and dementia, A person may have a delusion on one subject, and be perfectly sane on all others. The intellect may be so constituted, that a man may be impelled, by partial derangement, to do an act of violence, or commit a crime, though conscious at the time that he is doing wrong. There may be moral insanity, and yet no particular delusion”.

Gordon, for Macleod: “(He) was evidently deranged at the time when he committed the crime. The various kinds of insanity have been divided into,— 1. Idiocy, where the mental faculties have been wanting from birth; 2. Dementia, where the faculty of judgment is entirely lost; 3. Mania, where the understanding is generally deranged; 4. Monomania, where the understanding is partially diseased, under the influence of some particular illusion, referring to one subject, while the intellectual powers are, on other subjects, in a great measure unimpaired; 5. Moral Insanity, where there is no insane illusion or defect of the intellect, but a morbid perversion of the feelings, temper, and natural impulses. (Pritchard’s Treatise on Insanity; Watson’s Medical Jurisprudence, p. 322). The present case partakes of the character of the two last. (See case of Doux. Beck’s Medical Jurisprudence, 5th Edition, p. 410.) In cases of monomania, if the crime can be traced as directly flowing from the prevailing delusion in the mind of the criminal, he is not responsible. (Speech of Lord Erskine in the case of Hadfield, State Trials, vol. xxvii. p. 1307; Alison, vol. i. p. 645.) That (he) was not of sound mind, generally, is proved by a variety of circumstances, such as his writing the letter to Mr. M’Kenzie in blood, his strange religious notions, the inexplicable story with regard to the wheel, studded with nails, upon which he prayed, the pulpit,the story of the blanket, which he put into the river, and then threw around his shoulders, which made the witness who saw it think him mad, —his fancy that he had discovered perpetual motion; and, above all, his wild and extraordinary exclamation in church, which, of itself, was sufficient to point out a diseased mind, and proved that he was a person who acted upon incontrollable impulses. But the prevailing illusion of his intellect, which seems to have influenced his whole conduct, and constituted the peculiar monomania of his mind, was jealousy of his wife, and a belief that his life was threatened by her. See the case of Clark v. Pritchard, 1825, p. 376″.

“Lord Cockburn charged the Jury, directing their attention to the legal authorities on the subject (Hume, vol. i. pp. 37, 38. Alison, vol. i. pp. 644, 645), and expressing a decided opinion that the general result of the evidence was, not merely that the defence of insanity was not made out, but that it was disproved.

The Jury unanimously found Macleod guilty.

In respect of which verdict of Assize, he was sentenced to be executed at Inverness on the 11th of May.

In consequence of an application to the Secretary of State, two successive respites were obtained, for the purpose of staying the execution of MacLeod, until additional evidence could be obtained regarding his alleged insanity. A proof was accordingly taken at Stornoway. Several of MacLeod’s neighbours deponed that for the last three years, they had considered him subject to temporary fits of insanity; but the general character which he received was that of a remarkably sober and religious man, of a very mild and easy disposition, but of a visionary and abstracted turn of mind. He had been remarkable since his schoolboy days for his patient endurance of injuries, and a temper quite the reverse of irritable. Various instances of his eccentric conduct were detailed; such as on one occasion, working in the open air in a state of almost entire nudity, his rolling himself up in a blanket which he had previously steeped In a river, and which he wore by way of doing penance for the sins of his neighbours, and his constructing a large wheel, studded with ten long iron spikes, within which he was in the habit of praying, and the object of which he explained to be that each spike represented one of the ten commandments, and if he fell asleep while engaged in prayer, he would be pierced by those spikes which represented the particular commandments which he was most deficient in observing. His deceased wife had once informed a neighbour that he did not at times know what he said or did; and on the occasion of his calling out in church, as described in the evidence on the trial, he stated himself that he did not believe he was in his sound mind. The circumstance of his supposing, that if he had proper materials, he could discover the perpetual motion, was fully established”.

He was eventually found to be insane, and sent to Broadmoor.

The trial reads as a treatise of a state of mind shaped by feelings of insecurity, developed in a remote and harsh environment, leading to a grandiose state of delusion (the then ‘monomania’), given expression by a very ideosyncratic interpretation of religious doctrine. As such, it has an ongoing relevance to psychiatry.

Of the Macleods of Lewis, generally. In the Darwinian sense, they sought to survive and prosper as a clan, a “species”, within which individuals worked together for the mutual good of all; but which fell apart through internal fractures caused by individual greed and lust for power: the most enduring of stories.

The Macleods of Lewis played others in a brutal game of chess, and lost.

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1. Sir John Puleston ap John Hen, m. 1. Elin Whitney, da. of Robert Whitney ap Sir Robert.
1.1. Sir John Puleston of Bersham, Constable of Carnarvon Castle (d. 1551), m. 1. Gaynor, da.of Robert ap Meredydd ap Hwlkin Lloyd, of Glyn Llifon.
1.1.1. Robert Puleston, of Bersham, m. Ellin Williams, da. of William Williams of Cochwillan, and sister of Jane Williams
1.1.2. Elin Puleston, m. Morris ap Ellis, of Clenenney.
1.1.3. Margaret Puleston, m. William Lewis of Presaddfed, Sheriff of Anglesey, b. 1526; br. of (1) John Lewis, Sheriff of Anglesey, who m. Ann Owen, da. of Sir Hugh Owen, of Bodeon, d. 1613, recorder of Carmathen, and his first wife, Elizabeth Werriot, da. of Henry Werriot, of Orielton. (He m. 2. Lucy Percy, da. of Henry Percy, 8th Earl of Northumberland, and Catherine Neville, relict of Sir John Wooton). (2) Robert Lewis, (3) Thomas Lewis, and (4) William Lewis.

Sir Hugh Owen, of Bodeon, Barrister-at-Law and Recorder of Caermarthen, was the son of Owen ap Hugh, of Bodeon, Anglesey, High Sheriff of Anglesey, 30 Nov. 1562-63, 1579-80, who. d. 1613. His second wife was Sibill, youngest da. of Sir William Griffith, of Penrhyn, Caernarvonshire, Chamberlain of North Wales, by his second wife, Jane, da. of John Puleston, d. 1551. Sibill subsequently m. Hugh Gwyn, whose son Hugh Hughs ap Gwyn is mentioned in Rowland Coytemore’s Will as “my sister Elizabeth’s son”.

1. Sir John Puleston, m. 2. Alice Lewis, da. of Hugh Lewis of Presadfesdd, and sister of William Lewis of Presaddfed, aforesaid. The point is made: The family of Lewis of Presadfesdd were a central part of this kinship group.
1.1. John Puleston of Tir Mon, and Hafod y Wern, m. Catherine Stanley, da. of Piers Stanley of Ewlo Castle.
1.1.1. Elin Puleston, m. William Coytemore.
1.1.1.1. William Coytemore, m. 1. Jane Williams, da. of William Williams, and sister of Ellin Williams, aforesaid.
1.1.1.1.1. Rowland Coytmore, m. (3) Katherine Miles, 27 December 1610, widow of Thomas Gray, bapt. 18 August 1572, d. 1607, Harwich, Essex; their son being Thomas Gray, bapt. 4 May 1595. Thomas Gray, “ancient planter” deposed that his age on 7 March 1653/4 was “60 years or thereabouts”. (Surry D&W 1, P. 41).
1.1.1.1. William Coytemore, m. 2. Mary Lewis, da. of William Lewis of Presaddfed, aforesaid.
1.1.1.1.1. Lowry Coytmore, m. (as second wife) Robert Owen, of Bodsilin, co. Carnarvon, d. aft. 1588.

The connection between the Owen families of Bodeon and Bodsilin can be summarised:

1. Hwlkin ap Hwyel, d. c. 1400 fighting with Owen Glyndwr against Henry IV.; m. Eurddyled verch Ierwerth ap Dafydd Lloyd.
1.1. Llewellyn ap Hwlcyn, d. 1483, m. Mali, da. of Ifan Lloyd (of Bodsilin) ap Griffith ap Grono ap Howell ap Cunfig ap Jorwerth ap Yarthur ap Cynddulodigi, King of Wales.
1.1.1. Meurig (of Bodeon & Bodsilin) ap LLewellyn, m. Margaret verch Ieuan Vychen (Evan Fychan) ap Evan ap Adda ap Iorwerth Ddu of Nantley-fwyi,of Pengwern or Pingwirn, Denbigh.
1.1.1.1. Owen ap Meurig, d. 1530, m. Eleanor verch Robert ap Meredith ap Hwleyn Lloyd of Glynllifon.
1.1.1.1.1. The Owen family of Bodowen, Anglesey.
1.1.1.2. John ap Meurig, m. Angharad verch Gruffydd ap Howell ap David ap Meredith.
1.1.1.2.1. Robert ap John, m. Gwenhwyvar verch William ap Meredith ap Rys.
1.1.1.2.1.1. Owen ap Robert, of Bodsilin, m. Angharad verch Dafydd ap William ap Griffith ap Robyn.
1.1.1.2.1.1.1. Robert Owen, of Bodsilin, co. Carnarvon, d. aft. 1588, m. (1) Anne Wynne, da. of John Wynne of Hirdrefaig; (2) Lowry (Laura) Coytemore, da. of William Coytemore, aforsaid.
1.1.1.2.1.1.1.1. (By first wife) John Owen, d. 27 March 1611, m. Ellin Morris, da. of William Wynne Maurice of Clenneney.
1.1.1.2.1.1.1.1.1. Sir John Owen, Royalist commander, b. c. 1600, Clenennau, near Dolbenmaen, Caernarvonshire, his mother’s estate.
1.1.1.2.1.1.1.1.1.1. William Owen, m. Katherine Anwyl, da. of Lewis Anwyl, whose aunt was the wife of Cadwalladr Owen.

1. Richard ap Morris Owen, of Rhiwsaeson, Sheriff in 1579, who married Elen Lloyd, da. of John Vaughan ab Rhydderch of Glanlery.
1.1. Morris Owen Esq., of Rhiwsaeson, fl. 1612 (Dwnn), m. (1) Lucy BLayney, da. of David Lloyd Blayney, c. 1515-1595, and Elizabeth Gwyn, d. 1590; da. of Lewis Gwyn, Constable of Bishop’s Castle. (2) Mary verch Howell Vaughn ap Howell ap Griffith Jenkyns, relict of Hugh ap Evan, Esq. She was the mother of Sir Lewis ap Hugh, vicar of Llanbrynmair, in the township of Rhiwsaeson, and John ap Hugh, who m. Catherine verch Sir Richard Herbert, of Montgomery
1.1.1. Athelstan Owen, deputy sheriff of Mont., noted in Owen v Herbert (Nat. Arch. ref. 2/JasI/O2/19. 1603-1612).
1.1.2. Randle Owen, second son of Maurice Owen of Rhiwsaeson, m. Elen Wyn, da. and heiress of Humphrey Wynne of Gellidywyll, son of Thomas ap Humphrey ap David ap Howell ap Owen ap Griffith, of Rhiwsaeson.
1.1.3. David Owen.
1.1.4. Richard Owen, M.A.
1.1.5. Rowland Owen. Matthew Herbert, lessee of Penrhos Mill, bought a suit in the Exchequer against Rowland Owen.
1.1.6. Cadwaladr Owen, 1562-1617, proposed by the Herberts as vicar of Llanbrynmair, matriculated at Jesus College, Oxford, Nov. 24, 1581; graduated B.A. in 1583, M.A. in 1588, and B.D. in 1603; and was elected fellow of Oriel College in 1585; m. Blanch, the da. of John Roberts, Esq., younger brother to Lewis Anwyl Esq., of Park, in com. Merion, father of William Lewis Anwyl.
1.1.6.1. Dr. Richard Owen.
1.1.6.1.1. Ann Owen, m. Micajah Perry, partner of Thomas Lane, who m. into the family of Lancelot Bathurst, whose da. m. Nicholas Meriwether, whom Bartholomew Owen was Power of Attorney. Nicholas Meriwether was probably the son of Edward Meriwether; tenant of his kinsman, Lawrence Bathurst, in Hothorpe co. Northants.
1.2. Edward Owen, m. Ellin Wynne, da. of Morris ap Robert Wynne, Esq., of Glynn, and Agnes, da. of Robert ap Richard, of Llecheiddior, in Carnarvonshire. Ellin Wynne was the sister of William Wynne Esq., of Glynn, who m. Katherine, da. of William Lewis Anwyl, Esq. of Park, in Merionethshire, and sister of Lewis Anwyl, Esq., whose da., Katherine, m. William Owen, esq. of Porkington, son of the royalist commander, Sir John Owen.
1.1.6.2. … Owen.
1.1.6.2.1. Bartholomew Owen, gent.; a notorious disputant, noted in Virginia in the mid 1650’s, coinciding with the Royalist defeat in the English Civil War, and the harsh treatment of such as Sir John Owen.

When plucking namesakes of Virginia settlers out of English parish registers, it should at least be asked if the proposed connections make any sense of future ones, and, if not, they should not see ink.

In March, 1661, Bartholomew Owen bought 200 ac. of land from Christopher Lewis (who was probably the son of Richard Lewis and Frances Miles), which is suggestive of a kinship relationship, if the propositions that Bartholomew Owen was kin of the Coetmors is understood, and that they were closely related to the Lewis family of Presadfesdd. On 1 March 1661, Bartholomew purchased 200 ac. from Christopher and Jane Lewis on the upper part of the West side of Grayes Creek, Southwark Parish. Surry.

It may be recalled that Rowland Coetmore m. 3. Katherine Miles, widow of Thomas Gray of Harwich, from his (quite wealthy) family most likely came thomas Gray of Virginia, whose servant was Luke Measell. In 1658, Bartholomew Owen was recorded in Court as making “disparaging, malicious and threatening remarks” against Thomas Gray, a prominent planter. Similarly, Bartholomew Owen was disparaging toward Captain George Jordan, calling him “short-arsed”.

This was a specific term of the time that claimed someone to be lowly born (nearer to the ground/plough); of lesser birth than the accuser. This should be understood in relation to the rule in Virginia by English appointees, who were extremely class conscious, and who regularly imposed fines for “insubordination”. Welsh migrants to Virginia of good birth (many of whom were Quakers, as the Owen family of Bodeon), would have been particularly riled by claims of their inferiority.

What is understood is that the English Civil War (with its State religion versus “subversive” religion connotations) continued in Virginia.

The Welsh kinship groups were extremely interconnected, a survival tactic against a hostile, and often vicious, English hegemony.

Ad.

Cadwaladr Owen’s family were very well connected:

1. Jenkyn Williams, of Llanidloes, m. Margaret, d. of Owen Gwynn of Llanidloes; sheriff of Cardiganshire in 1551
1.1. Richard Williams, m. Jane, d. of Jenkyn ap Llewelyn ap Maurice ap Rhys.
1.1.1. Lewis Williams, of Llwynrhyddodr, m. Margaret, d. of Morgan Herbert,* of Hafod Uchdryd, co. Cardigan, Esq.
1.1.1.1. Richard Williams, m. Elen, da. of Cadwalladr Owen, of Llanbrynmair, Esq. Cadwaladr Owen was collated to the Rectory of Llanvechain in 1601, to the Vicarage of Llanbrynmair in 1608, and died in 1617. He was “in his time reputed a great disputant … and (as Lewis Dwn in his Herald’s visitation sayth) was a justice of the peace in Com. Montgomery (Athenæ Oxonienses). His son, Richard, was Fellow of Oriel College, Oxford, 1627; V. Eltham, Kent, 1635; R. St. Swithin, London, 1638. Deprived by the Parliamentary Committee. Restored. V. St. Mary’s Cray, and Preb. St. Paul’s.
1.1.1.1.1. Lewis Williams, of Llwynrhyddod, m. Jane, d. of Edward Morgan, of Glan-hafren. (Lewys Dwnn, vol. i, p. 240).|

*His son, William Herbert, m. Margaret, da. of Edward Vaughan, of Trawscoed, Esq., and sister of Sir John Vaughn, Chief Justice of the Court of Common Pleas.

The arms of the Herbert family are, party per pale sa. and gu. three lions rampant argent.

Dorothy Lane of London, widow, 17 January, 1605. My body to be buried in the parish church or churchyard of S’ Dunstans in the East, London, where I am a parishioner. To Susan Harrys, daughter of my late son in law William Harrys, late of Wapping in the County of Middlesex, mariner deceased, and of Dorothie my daughter, late his wife, ten pounds. To George Stake, son of my late sister Elizabeth, thirty shillings. To my cousin Jeffery Thorowgood twenty shillings. To my cousin Bennet Burton twenty shillings. To my cousins Elizabeth and Sara Quaitmore, daughters of Rowland Quaytmore and of my said daughter Dorothie, his now wife, five pounds apiece. To the said Rowland Quaytmore, my son in law, thirty shillings to make him a ring. To Helen Averell, late wife of William Averell, Schoolmaster, deceased, my small joyned chair with a back. To the said Dorothie Quaytmore,  my daughter, and William Harrys, her son, and to the heirs of the said William Harrys, the son, lawfully begotten, all those my two tenements and two acres in Saffron Walden in the County of Essex, which late were Symon Burton’s, my late brother’s deceased, the said Dorothie Quaytmore & William Harrys her son to pay out to Samuel Harrys, son of my said daughter Dorothie Quaytmore, ten pounds upon reasonable request, within two months next after such day or time as the said Samuel Harrys shall attain and come to the lawful age of twenty-one years, and unto Jane and Joane Burton, daughters of my said late brother Symon Burton of Saffron Walden aforesaid, five pounds apiece within four years next after such day or time as my said daughter Dorothie & William her son or her heirs or assigns shall first enter and enjoy the said two tenements, &c. To Susan & Dorothie Harrys, daughters of my said daughter Dorothie Quaytmore (certain bequests). To Mary Quaitmore five pounds. To my cousin Elizabeth Quaytmore (certain table linen) and to Sara Quaytmore her sister (a similar bequest). To Mary & Sara Thorowgood, daughters of my cousin Jeffery Thorowgood, twenty shillings. To Richard Weech of London, merchant, twenty shillings. To my cousin Walter Gray five shillings, and to his wife my stuff gown lined with furr. The residue to my daughter Dorothie and she and the above named William Harrys the son appointed full & sole executors. The said Jeffery Thorowgood & Richard Weech appointed overseers. The witnesses were William Jones, Scr., Jeffery Thorowgood, signum, Robert Powell, shoemaker. Commission was issued 4 March 1608 to Dorothie Quaytmore, with power reserved for William Harrys, the other executor, &c. Dorsett, 23.

Rowland Cottemore of Wapping in the County of Middlesex, mariner, 5 June, 1626, proved 24 November 1626 by Katherine Coytemore, relict and executrix. To son Thomas Coytemore and his heirs, &c. the messuage or tenement, lands, hereditaments and appurtenances in the manor of Milton in the parish of Prittlewell ah. Pricklewell, in the County of Essex, now in the tenure and occupation of John Greene, &c. and my farm and copyhold land of forty four acres or thereabouts, in the parish of Great Bursted in the County of Essex ; wife Katherine to have the use and rents until my son Thomas shall accomplish his age of one and twenty years. To my daughter Elizabeth Coytemore three score pounds at her age of one and twenty years or day of marriage, also the tenement or messuage known by the sign of the Blewboare in the town or parish of Retchford, in the County of Essex, now in the tenure of William Ashwell. To my son in law Thomas Gray and his heirs my two copyhold tenements, &c. in Rederith, in the County of Surrey, now in the several occupations of Francis Welby and John Moore. If my children and children’s children die before they accomplish their several ages of one and twenty or be married, then my aforesaid lands shall remain, come and be unto my kinsman Hugh Hughs ap Gwyn, my sister Elizabeth’s son. To my grandson William Ball, son of William Ball, forty shillings.To my daughter in law daughter Dorothy Lamberton forty shillings. To the poor of Wapping three pounds and to the poor of the Upper Hamlet of Whitechapel forty shillings. To the masters of Trinity House, for their poor, ten pounds within one year, &c. My wife Katherine to be executrix and sons in law Thomas Gray and William Rainsborough of Wapping aforesaid, mariners, to be overseers.The witnesses were Raphe Bower pub. scr. and John Wheatley serv. to the said scr. Hele, 125.

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Discerning one of the following Harris from another is like attempting to pick out peas in a stew with a thin fork.

It may be best to treat this group of people as seperate entities. We have an emphasis to treat everyone as closely connected by blood, yet, take the case of Ferdinando Gorges, who very much associated with a younger namesake, therefore the obvious conclusion is that the younger man was of close blood connection. This was not so, he was a distant cousin to whom Ferdinando was Godfather, and we know this because the Gorge family are buried in mountains of preserved records.

For families not steeped in record, the problem is assumption versus the facts on the ground of this period of history. The Thomas of 1672, the Edward of 1677; the Thomas of 1688, may have been distant cousins, but, as was standard practice, they may have married someone who was a cousin of the other; consanguineous ties being reinforced by non-consanguineous ones over each generation. This, to them, would be a very close measure of association, in which they would share many common links to other families.

The DNA testing of modern times does not take into account the extremely interbred nature of marriages of this period, thus giving a false notion of closeness.

HARRIS OF BENNETT CONNECTION

1. Robert Bennett, a tanner, of Wivelscombe, Somerset, m. Elizabeth Edney.
1.1. Thomas Bennett, d. 1616, Wivelscombe, m. Ann Spicer.
1.1.1. Thomas Bennett, b. Nov. 11, 1603 at Wiveliscombe; m. Agnes Beard, July 17, 1623.
1.1.1.1. Alice Bennett, m. John Hardy. Nugent, C&P vol. 1, p. 569: Mr. John Hardie 1150 acres IOW Co., 5 June 1666. Beginning at upper corner tree of Mathew Tomlins old land, running SSE by Wm. Westwrayers land &c. SW on Mathew Tomlins new land.
1.2.1.1. Lucy Hardy, m. Hodges Council.
1.2.1.1.1. Lucy Hardy, m. Hodges Council.
1.1.1.2. … Bennett, m. Richard Jackson, who patented 450 acres in IOW adjacent to Justinian Cooper.
1.1.1.2.1. Mary Jackson, m. Capt. George Hardy, who patented 500 acres on July 17, 1648 ‘lying on east side of Lawne’s Creek extending to main river and along the great river to the creek dividing the same from land of Alice Bennett’. On 19 June 1666, he made a deed to land which belonged to his wife Mary whom he refers to as the ‘daughter of Richard Jackson, dec.’. Her sister, Sarah Jackson, m. Col. Arthur Smith II. George Hardy was an appraiser of the estate of Edward Harris, d. 1677.
1.1.2. John Bennett, bapt. July 10, 1624 Wiveliscombe.
1.1.2.1. William Bennett, m. Mary Smith, da. of Joseph Smith, Feb. 18, 1684, at Christ Church Parish, Middlesex Co., Virginia
1.1.2.1.1. William Bennett, m. Sarah Brumwell, da. of Peter Brumwell and Ellinor (Edwards) Jackson.
1.1.2.1.1.1. Richard Bennett, bapt. 1 May 1709, Christchurch Parish, m. Elizabeth Rice, da. of Thomas Rice and Mary Fisher; and sister of Mary Rice, b. Dec. 9, 1709, St Peter’s Parish, Hanover Co., wife of John Symes (of the Somerset family; the Tookes, associated with Thomas Harris, d. 1672, their tennants in Barwick; the Fulghams, associated with Thomas Harris, d. 1688, almost certainly their tennants in Pitminster, 11 miles from Wivelscombe).
1.1.2.1.1.1.1. william Bennett, Hanover Co., m. Sarah Harris; who was she?
1.1.2.1.1.1.2. James Bennett, Hanover Co., m. Elizabeth Sampson.
1.1.3. Richard Bennett, b Aug. 6, 1609, Wiveliscombe, d. 1675, Virginia; his Will bequesting: “To William Yearret of Pagan Creek and to the wife of Mr. Thomas Taberer, to each of them two thousand pounds of tobacco”. *His da. Ruth m. John Numan. Robert Spencer married Taberer’s sister, Ann. Joshua Taberer, Will Nov. 24, 1656. “To brother Thomas Taberer all houses and lands left me by last will and test. of my father William Taberer of the county of Derby, he my brother fining a legacy to my brother William Taberer of Derby and the rest of my fathers kindred of ten pounds sterling in England. After my brother Thomas’ decease, his only dau. and heir Ruth Taberer to be possessed with all my said estate in England as my only heir and executrix forever. To my cousin Ruth Taberer al my female cattle and rest of my estate in Va. To my brother Thomas full power to recover my estate in England. Teste, William Lewer, Francis Higgins.

William Lewer was associated with Thomas Harris, d. 1672: Thomas Harris, d. 1672, who was associated with Robert Spencer, as evidenced here: ‘Know all men present that I Thomas Harris ine th county of IOW for many considerable caused me thereunto moving have and do by the srest constitie and ordeyne my be beloved friend Mr. Thomas Culmore of the county of Surry my true and lawfully attorney for me and to my ame and use to ask leavy recover of receive of Robert Spencer of the County of Surry all such somes of tobacco as shall appear due unto me within the county aforesaid also giving and by the prests granting to my attorney full power to perform for me in all causes touching ye premised for revcovery of the same as if my self ewer personnal present. Tho Harris. Witness, Wm Lewer, Samll Haswell‘. R. 1660. (Surry Co. D.B. 1, p 149). Richard Bennett’s bequest to “the wife of Mr. Thomas Taberer” was probably to a sister or cousin. The Will of John Gorge, recorded Jan. 9, 1678, names friend Thomas Taberer as exec. John Dalton was transp. by Nicholas George & Thomas Taberer & Humphry Clarke. Thomas Harris, d. 1672, m. a da. of Nicholas Gorge.

In 1666, Colonel Arthur Smith made a deed to land at ‘Blackwater’ inherited by his wife, Sarah Jackson, from her ‘grandmother Alice Bennett’. Richard Bennett’s first wife was Anne, who was Charles Barham’s sister (see Douglas Richardson, ‘Plantagenet Ancestry’). Mr. Charles Barham Ex., Thomas Harris (d. 1672) and Thomas Tuke overseers, were officers of the will of William Ridley, who was probably the br. of Elizabeth Ridley, Charles Barham’s wife.

Richard Bennett was a nephew of Edward Bennett, who resided for a time at Delft and was largely engaged in the Virginia trade, being a member of the Virginia company. The nephew, being his partner, came over to supervise his plantations. In 1642 he had been one of’ those Virginia Puritans who had sent to New England for ministers, but in the last part of his life he became a Quaker.

1.1.3.1. Ann Bennett, m. Theoderick Bland.
1.2. Edward Bennett, bapt. February 2, 1577, in Wivelscombe; later of of St Olave, Southwark, London, and Lawn’s Creek, Virginia.
1.3. Elianor Bennett, bapt. Mar. 5, 1567, m. Oct. 7, 1594 Richard Harris, son of William Harris, who m. Dorothy West, Aug. 31, 1562, at Wivelscombe.
1.3.1. Thomas Harris, m. Judith Blake, Nov. 20, 1623, at Wivelscombe. It is most consistent, based on the law of common association, that this was Thomas Harris, d. 1672, first-cousin of Richard Bennett, b. Aug. 6, 1609, Wivelscombe, d. 1675, Virginia; whose associations and those of Thomas Harris, d. 1672, closely intertwined.

1.3.2. Richard Harris.
1.3.2.1. John Harris, bapt. Nov. 5, 1626, Wiveliscombe; d. 1687, m. Unity?
1.3.2.1.1. Elizabeth Harris, m. Samuel, son of Robert Lancaster Sr. and Sarah, widow of 2nd husband Richard Bennett Sr., d. 1710. B. 5, p. 224: Henry Baker deceased, estate dated 27 April 1701. Witnesses: Robert Lancaster Sr., Nicholas Sessoms, whose da. was Mary Blake, wife of William Blake; the Lancasters being intermarried with the Counsell family, of Wedmore.

HARRIS OF SYMES (OF MELLS/NUNNEY) CONNECTION

1.
1.1. John Harris, d. 1616, in Mells.
1.1.1. John Harris, bapt. 17 Feb. 1587, in Mells (St Andrew); m. 1. Grace Haine, in 1608, in Mells; 2. Mary Tomlin, 9 Nov. 1620, and was bur. 18 Oct. 1636, in Mells. If this is to be Sergeant John Harris of Virginia, he had remarried shortly after his second marriage, and had returned to England before his death. Furthermore, if John Harris, as ‘Sergeant’, had a son by Grace Haine, born circa 1609-1612, it is possible that he was apprenticed at the time of his father’s arrival in Virginia, and did not accompany him.
1.1.1.1. Thomas Harris, m. Alice West, October 1635, in Nunney (juxta Mells), d. in Charles City in 1677?
1.1.1.1.1. Thomas Harris, bapt. 14 August 1636, in Nunney, d. 1688 in VA?
1.1.2. Elizabeth Harris, bapt 25 Oct. 1590, Mells, m. George Hill, 27 Jan. 1619, Mells.
1.1.2.1. Nicholas Hill (I suggest) who, on 30 Sept. 1664, patented 750 ac. in the Upper Parish, part of the estate of Edward Bennett, of Wivelscombe, Somerset, and St Olave, London.
1.1.1.1.2. John Harris, bapt. 1640, m. Margaret Beard, 1664, Nunney. (N.B. Thomas Bennett, b. Nov. 11, 1603 at Wiveliscombe; m. Agnes Beard, July 17, 1623).
1.1.1.1.3. Roger Harris, bapt. 3 Jun. 1642, m. Anne Slade, 20 May 1669, Nunney.
1.1.1.1.4. Anne Harris, bapt. 21 Oct. 1646, m. Robert Millerd, May 1667, Nunney. (N.B. John Harris, m. Penelope Millard, 9 Sept. 1611, Wedmore).
1.1.1.2. Richard Harris.
1.1.1.2.1. Mary Harris, bapt. Aug. 1624, m. Jeffrey Coomes (Comer) 8 Nov. 1660, Nunney. (1. John Counsell, bapt. 1573. 1.1. John Counsell, bapt Nov. 28, 1601, married Mary Coomer, on Nov. 26, 1631; the sister of Agnes Coomer, who married John Harris in the adj. parish of Cheddar, in Feb. 1635; uncle of Thomas Harris, bapt. Dec. 31, 1637, in Cheddar).
1.2. Margery Harris, m. John Allen, 8 Jun. 1567, Mells.
1.1.2. Mary Harris, m. John Young, 21 Oct. 1588, Mells.
1.1.3. Elizabeth Harris, m. Thomas Baylye, 3 May 1589, Mells.

1. Richard Symes (See N&Q, 1890). ‘Rich’d Symes, late of Bristol, mariner’.
1.1. Adam Symes. (ibid.).
1.1.1. George Sims, of Brunswick Co.; d. Sept. 1763. He bought land from his br. John Sims, on 5 Nov. 1747.
1.1.1.1. Adam Sims, m. Elizabeth Walton, da. of George Walton of Brunswick Co., and who was, thus, the br.-in-law of Nathan Harris, grandson of Thomas Harris, d. 1688, and br. of West Harris. The Waltons were of the squirarchy of Somerset, and sat in judgement at Taunton Assizes, with others of their class – Davis, Symes, Hardy, Hodges, Horner, Lancaster, Jones, et al.

Nunney, 2 mls from Mells, 20 mls from Wedmore.

CLOSELY RELATED TO:

1. John Harris, m. Joan Stubbs, 10 Feb. 1569, Wedmore
1.1. John Harris, d. 1625, m. Penelope Millard, 9 Sept. 1611, Wedmore
1.1.1. Robert Harris. Lawne’s Creek; 26 October 1646, James Tooke to Robert Harris, all my right and title to this lease.
1.1.1.1. Edward Harris, bapt. 8 Aug. 1624, Wedmore, ‘son of Robert’; he who d. in 1677, in Virginia?
1.2. Thomas Harris.
1.2.1. Thomas Harris, bapt. 31 Dec. 1637, Cheddar, ‘son of Thomas’, he who d. in 1688, in Virginia?
1.3. John Harris, m. Agnes Coomer.

CLOSELY RELATED TO:

(Records relate to Wrington, unless otherwise stated).

1.
2. John Harris, m. Alse Rumney, 20 May 1572.
3. Agnes Harris, m. Thomas Griffin, 20 Sept. 1595.
3. William Harris, m. Jone Andrews, 7 Nov. 1596.
4. Joane Harris, m. William Hedges, 23 June 1617 (Tickenham).
4. Elinor Harris, m. John Carter, 21 Jan. 1617.
4. William Harris, m. Mary Jennings, 22 Apr. 1622 (Portbury); their son being John Harris, bapt. Jan. 28, 1623. At Portbury: Silvester Davis m. Isabell Wallis; Apr. 22, 1622. Thomas Davis m. Isabell Wallis, 27 Oct. 1624. Mary Davis transported in 1653 to VA by Richard Jennings. Thomas Jennings transported in 1638 to Va by Roger Davis (Charles City). John Davis son of John Davis bapt. at Portbury, Jan. 1612. Edward Harris, d. 1677, VA., owed money to the widow of John Davis; i.e. Mary Greene: The inventory of Edward Harris, d. 1677, states that he owed money to “Mrs Davis”; almost cartainly the wife of John Davis, Mary Greene; da. of Thomas Greene and Mary Moone, and cousin of Martha Greene, who m. Anthony Fuljames (Fulgham), of Pitminster. whose son, Michael Fulgham, m. Anne Izzard; having issue (1) Anne Fulgham, who m. Robert Harris, son of Thomas Harris, d. 1688. (2) Susannah Fulgham, m. Hardy Council, son of Hodges Council Jr. and Lucy Hardy. In IOW Court, January 11, 1672, Thomas Tooke (associated with Thomas Harris, d. 1677), as attorney, calls John Davis “his loving brother”.
5. John Harris, bapt. Jan. 28, 1623.
2. Edward Harris, m. Agnis Wallis, 17 Feb, 1584.
3. Thomas Harris, bapt. 30 Mar. 1577.
4. William Harris, bapt. 19 Mar. 1613.
4. Edward Harris, bapt. 1 Oct. 1619.?
4. Thomas Harris.
5. Richard Harris, bapt. 22 Jul. 1629.
5. Thomas Harris, bapt. 4 Aug. 1633?

See notes on connection of Davis family to Wrington/Tickenham, and to the  Hodges/Counsells of Wedmore.

As said, peas in a stew.
copyright m stanhope 2017