All, I am working on the LEE surname in NC, specifically, Johnston Co. Much has been written about John LEE (Esq.), d. 1766, and his descendants, but little on other LEEs in the area. One of the heroes of that area was Captain Thomas LEE (RW-NC). There are many assertions about him that are inconsistent. He is claimed as the son of John LEE (Esq.) who indeed had a son, Thomas. He is claimed to be the son of Richard and Judith (Steptoe) LEE of Ditchley Hall, VA. He is claimed to be the husband of Mary GRIFFIN who died in 1758. And there are other claims of wives. What we know of Captain Thomas LEE is that he died in Hawkins Co., TN in 1816 and at the time was married to a widow, Mary RAINS, who survived him. Recognized genealogists have addressed Captain Thomas LEE and seem to have concluded that the information available is not sufficient to make a conclusion. Nevertheless, the swirl of assertions continues without the needed proof to put this issue to rest. It may never be resolved. However, if it is to be resolved some very precise findings are necessary. One, Is the identity of Thomas LEE "of Ditchley" cited in the Samuel Griffin Bible in association with the death of Thomas' wife, Mary Griffin, in 1758. How was he related to Ditchley? What became of him? Two, is the identity of the children of Richard and Judith (Steptoe) LEE of Ditchley Hall, VA. Whether or not there was a son, Thomas, is the issue. Three, is the clear identity of Thomas, son of John LEE (Esq.), as heir and Thomas' subsequent whereabouts. What became of him? Four, is the marriages with associated children of Captain Thomas LEE (RW-NC). Who did he marry and when? I am in hopes that those interested in a resolution to this case would contribute what they know to be fact. This would start a process of affirming or denying these assertions. Best regards, Hugh