RootsWeb.com Mailing Lists
Total: 1/1
    1. re Jenny Wiley
    2. Kathy Bemisdarfer
    3. David also writes in his book "The Webb's of Bearwallow Ridge" For generations descendants of Mary Jane (Wiley) Williamson have known that her father was an Indian Chief, the name of that chief has been identified as Benge, A Shawnee who, after Jenny's escape, swore "bitter revenge" and proceeded to terrorize settlers in Western VA. Bessie (Coridal) Williamson said, "I had always heard that the Indian Chief ancestor was bitter over losing Jenny because she was pregnant with his child and she knew the Indian language, customs and dances, and was part Indian herself." In "History of Southwest VA 1746-1786" a writer described Benge as "remarkable for his strength, activity, endurance, and a great speed as a runner. He was a man of more than average intelligence, as well as a great bravery and strategy." In "Historical Records in Washington County, 1770-1870" it was reported that LT. Vincent Hobbs of Lee Co., VA Militia and his men encountered Benge and his men on 9 April 1794 at Stone Mountain, near present Norton, Wise Co., VA. Benge was killed in the first fire. He also stated that the reason for Jenny Wiley's capture was becasue of revenge for the killing of several Indians by the Harmon family. They attacked the Wiley home by mistake.

    03/13/1999 09:04:22