Howdy All: There was one and possibly two individuals named Thomas Bland living in Caroline Co., VA between 1800 and 1863. These are finding of facts on Thomas Bland. 1. Military Service Records show that a Corporal Thomas Bland of Caroline Co, VA. served in the War of 1812. He enlisted for Military Service at Eagle's Nest in Caroline Co., VA. Eagle's Nest was the estate of Col. Phillip Surry and was located just below Port Royal, VA. on a hill overlooking the Rappahannock River. He served in the 30th Reingment (Tankersley's) Virginia Militia. 2. Marriage Records show that Thomas Bland (age 64 years) married Martha Bowler (age 14years) on November 10, 1847 in Caroline Co., VA. 3. In the Virginia Census of 1860 it lists Thomas Bland ( age 77) and Martha Bowler (age 27) living in Caroline Co., VA with their 3 children: Mary (11), John (10), and Josiah (2). 4. Martha Bowler applied for and received a pension of $8.00 per month for Thomas Bland's Service in the War of 1812. She passed away at Rappahannock Academy, VA. on May 16, 1906. 5. A Guaridian Bond was issued on Dec 14, 1813 to Geroge Marshall in the amount of $2000.00 for the orphan children (Mary, John S. Josiah and Catherine) of Thomas Bland deceased. 6. The names of the children for both Thomas Blands are exactly the same and in the same order of birth. Interesting isn't it. Now my question is can anyone tell me anything about the Thomas Bland who married Martha Bowler in 1847 or about the Thomas Bland who was supposedly deceased in 1813? By chance were these the same individual and the children were declared orphaned because he was away from home in the War of 1812. Anything that anyone can tell me about this individual that will help me break my road block will be greatly appreciated. Regards and God Bless, Bernie in Northern, Virginia