The 1870 Census lists the following for the BRAY family, Reed's Creek Post Office, Washington Township, Lawrence County, AR (later became Sharp County, AR) Ann BRAY age 45 Born: TN Occupation Farmer head of household Matilda BRAY age 16 Born: MO Attended school, cannot read Columbus BRAY age 14 Born: MO did not attend school, [insane or idiotic] Jefferson BRAY age 8 Born: AR Although father is not listed, the only purchaser of land in Washington TWP with surname BRAY was John BRAY, July 1, 1859, according to BLM records. Columbus' father was born in VA according to 1880 census. I have since located only one BRAY household living in Essex County, VA, in 1790. That was Charles BRAY, and in 1850, there is a Charles and Susan BRAY living in Essex County, VA . They had a son John who is listed as 28 yrs old. Does anyone have any additional information on this Charles, Susan, or John BRAY?