Randy Willis randy@randywillis.org www.randywillis.org Re: Sarah Willis Rev. Joseph Willis' (1758-1854) uncle (and Agerton Willis' brother) Benjamin Willis (ca. 1725-1788) also had a son named Joseph Willis. This Joseph Willis was thus a first cousin to Rev. Joseph Willis and as might be expected the records of the two have been confused in the past. This Joseph Willis was a few years younger (born 1763-1767) than Rev. Joseph Willis (born 1755-1758). This Joseph Willis' (not Rev. Joseph Willis) mother was named Sarah Willis. Sarah was married to Benjamin Willis, not Rev. Joseph Willis' father Agerton Willis as some have supposed. I have numerous documents that support/prove this. This Joseph Willis' (not Rev. Joseph Willis) sold to his mother, Sarah Willis, half of the "Joseph Willis' saw mill." This Joseph Willis (the son of Benjamin Willis) died later the same year (1788), without issue. He is listed on the 1788 tax list as "Willis, Joseph Estate" with 530 acres, 2 black polls. Now to complicate things further, this Joseph Willis (the son of Benjamin Willis) also had a brother named Agerton Willis. This Agerton was also a first cousin to Rev. Joseph Willis. Rev. Joseph Willis' uncle George Willis (born ca. 1730) also had a son named Agerton Willis, thus we see Rev. Joseph Willis' father was named Agerton Willis and Rev. Joseph also had two first cousins named Agerton and one first cousin named Joseph. These three Agerton Willises and the two Joseph Willises are often confused with each other. Rev. Joseph Willis' father, Agerton, first bought land in North Carolina. On December 13, 1754, he purchased 300 acres in New Hanover in what is now southeastern Pender County "on the East Side of a Branch of Long Creek." Pender was not established until 1874. New Hanover included what is now Pender and parts of Brunswick County. Agerton was taxed on this property the next year, 1755. There were only 362 white people taxed in New Hanover that year. About twenty families owned a great number of slaves there during that time. These families and others like them in southeastern North Carolina controlled the affairs of the counties in which they lived and set the standards of morals and religion. Between 1755 and 1758, Agerton moved to Bladen County, just to the northeast. Daniel, Benjamin and Joanna and her husband James Council, had been living there since 1753. It was there between 1755 and 1758, that Agerton's only son, Joseph, was born. Joseph Willis would someday play a major roll in early Louisiana Baptist history. Most of the early Bladen County deeds before 1784 were lost due to a series of fires; thus we are unable to find Agerton's first purchase of land in Bladen County. Nevertheless a description of the bulk of his lands can be gleaned from later deeds. He purchased 640 acres from his brother Daniel on May 21, 1762, on the West Side of the Northwest Cape Fear River. He then purchased an additional 2,560 acres between October 1766 and May 1773, which was on both sides of the Northwest Cape Fear River near Goodman's Swamp. Altogether, Agerton's holdings formed a very large and nearly contiguous extent of land on both sides of the Northwest Cape Fear River near the current Cumberland County line in present-day northwest Bladen County. Agerton, Daniel, Benjamin, James, and Joanna Willis were neighbors on the Northwest Cape Fear River. The other brother, George Willis, came first to New Hanover, obtaining a land grant on Widow Creek in 1761 and selling out in 1767. He then moved to Robeson County (formerly part of Bladen County) not very far west from the rest of the family. The four brothers were all well-to-do planters with large land holdings. As a planter, Agerton owned slaves many of which were Indian. At this time in North Carolina many slaves were Indian; in fact as late as the 1780's in North Carolina a third of all slaves were Indian. Indians were made slaves by the whites from the very beginning.

I have often wondered about the Melungeon connection with our Willis family. My brick wall is: Nancy Willis born abt. 1784 in N.C. or Tenn. Father probally was in the Rev. war .Father unknown.Married Shadrach Stallings date, place, unknown. He was born 14 July 1780, in Franklin Co. N.C. Died Posey Co, Ind.,5 April, 1864. Nancy died Posey Co. Ind.17sept 1839. My Grandmother said something about Nancy being related to the Mother or Father of George Washington. I found a Willis living in the next plantation to The Ball family in Virginia. But I sure can't come up with a connect to anyone. Could you take a look in your new book[sounds wonderful] and see if you can find anything. My grandmother often said there must be Indian blood in her as she was so dark. But could that be Melungeon? Thanking you in advance Nancy Hessel Bill Robinson wrote: > Hi Linda Sue, > > My name is Sharon Willis Robinson, and I am also researching my ancestors. > Not too long ago, I attended the "GENEALOGISTS/"MELUNGEON" Reunion > in Sneedville, TN and found a very distant cousin that has also been doing > research. > She sold me a book entitled, "Two Centuries With a Willis Family and Their > Kin", > edited by Douglas M. Willis. This book starts with... "Joel Willis, Sr., > Revolutionary > War Veteran, and primitive Baptist Preacher, who died in Jones County, > Georgia in > 1822." "The earliest known ancestor was James Willis, Sr. of Craven Co., NC > as > early as 1740 along with brothers Joseph and Samuel." He has quite an > extensive > list of these early Willis's. Most of this line ended up in Georgia, > Mississippi, and > Alabama. My line, probably from this group but no tie yet, went to > Kentucky. I paid > $60 for this book, printed in Dallas, Texas in 1963 and supposedly few > copies exist. > I am unwilling to part with said book, but would be happy to look up anyone > that you > are interested in. I tried to look up your Sarah, but there are 48 listed > in this book > with several in the right time frame with unknown husbands, could be one of > these is > yours, but need more information to determine which is which. Her middle > initial would > be very helpful, also, where in NC was she born, do you know? Who are her > siblings? > Who did they marry? If I can connect the family members, then I will know > which > Sarah is yours. Also, are there any other spellings of Meharg that you know > of? > > Hope to hear from you soon, hope I can be of some help. > > Sharon Willis Robinson > poopsnot@chartertn.net > > ----- Original Message ----- > From: <XFILELSD@aol.com> > To: <WILLIS-L@rootsweb.com> > Sent: Wednesday, January 31, 2001 11:39 PM > Subject: Sarah Willis > > > Hi All, > > > > I am looking for the parent's of Sarah Willis who married Lewis S. Meharg > > about 1838. Sarah was born about 1820 in North Carolina and died 1873 in > > Ohatchee, Calhoun County, AL. > > > > Any info will be appreciated. > > > > Linda Sue Reasor > > xfilelsd@aol.com > > > > > > ============================== > > Create a FREE family website at MyFamily.com! > > http://www.myfamily.com/banner.asp?ID=RWLIST2 > > > > > > ============================== > Ancestry.com Genealogical Databases > http://www.ancestry.com/rd/rwlist2.asp > Search over 2500 databases with one easy query!

Hi Linda Sue, My name is Sharon Willis Robinson, and I am also researching my ancestors. Not too long ago, I attended the "GENEALOGISTS/"MELUNGEON" Reunion in Sneedville, TN and found a very distant cousin that has also been doing research. She sold me a book entitled, "Two Centuries With a Willis Family and Their Kin", edited by Douglas M. Willis. This book starts with... "Joel Willis, Sr., Revolutionary War Veteran, and primitive Baptist Preacher, who died in Jones County, Georgia in 1822." "The earliest known ancestor was James Willis, Sr. of Craven Co., NC as early as 1740 along with brothers Joseph and Samuel." He has quite an extensive list of these early Willis's. Most of this line ended up in Georgia, Mississippi, and Alabama. My line, probably from this group but no tie yet, went to Kentucky. I paid $60 for this book, printed in Dallas, Texas in 1963 and supposedly few copies exist. I am unwilling to part with said book, but would be happy to look up anyone that you are interested in. I tried to look up your Sarah, but there are 48 listed in this book with several in the right time frame with unknown husbands, could be one of these is yours, but need more information to determine which is which. Her middle initial would be very helpful, also, where in NC was she born, do you know? Who are her siblings? Who did they marry? If I can connect the family members, then I will know which Sarah is yours. Also, are there any other spellings of Meharg that you know of? Hope to hear from you soon, hope I can be of some help. Sharon Willis Robinson poopsnot@chartertn.net ----- Original Message ----- From: <XFILELSD@aol.com> To: <WILLIS-L@rootsweb.com> Sent: Wednesday, January 31, 2001 11:39 PM Subject: Sarah Willis > Hi All, > > I am looking for the parent's of Sarah Willis who married Lewis S. Meharg > about 1838. Sarah was born about 1820 in North Carolina and died 1873 in > Ohatchee, Calhoun County, AL. > > Any info will be appreciated. > > Linda Sue Reasor > xfilelsd@aol.com > > > ============================== > Create a FREE family website at MyFamily.com! > http://www.myfamily.com/banner.asp?ID=RWLIST2 > >

Hi All, I am looking for the parent's of Sarah Willis who married Lewis S. Meharg about 1838. Sarah was born about 1820 in North Carolina and died 1873 in Ohatchee, Calhoun County, AL. Any info will be appreciated. Linda Sue Reasor xfilelsd@aol.com

Sterling WILLIS, b. bef. 1759 d. 11/11/1839, was the son of Richard Willis (1722-1775) and Ann CROWDER (1725-1806). This older Sterling died in Todd Co., KY and it is possible (conjecture) that he was the father or grandfather of the Sterling Willis shown at age 46 in the 1850 Todd Co. Census. The older Sterling WILLIS had several brothers and sisters (he was the 7th of 11 siblings) and he would have been only 45 in 1804 when the census Sterling Willis was born. The older Sterling WILLIS married Sarah PAYNE in Pittsylvania Co., VA, April 3, 1779. The next step would be to try to find some Todd Co. documents such as a marriage record for the younger Sterling showing someone as the father of the groom or an estate settlement for the older Sterling showing the younger one as an inheritor. I personally have not done any research on Sterling or in Todd Co. Regards, Douglas Willis McCammish ----- Original Message ----- From: "951Wm G Willis" <wmgwillis@hotmail.com> To: <WILLIS-L@rootsweb.com> Sent: Sunday, January 28, 2001 7:47 AM Subject: Unidentified subject! > I need your help. I'm trying to determine the parents of the following > Willises from the 1850 Todd Co., Ky Census. > > CENSUS YR: 1850 STATE or TERRITORY: KY COUNTY: Todd DIVISION: 1 PAGE > NO: 199a > ============================================================================ ============================================= > LN HN FN LAST NAME FIRST NAME AGE SEX RACE OCCUP. > VAL. BIRTHPLACE MRD. SCH. R/W DDB > ============================================================================ ============================================= > 1 50 51 Willis Sterling 46 M Farmer > KY > 2 50 51 Willis Martha 25 F > KY X > 3 50 51 Willis Mary 16 F > KY > 4 50 51 Willis Maria 14 F > KY > 5 50 51 Willis Elnora 12 F > KY > 6 50 51 Willis Elizabeth 8 F > KY > 7 50 51 Willis Sarah 5 F > KY > 8 50 51 Willis David 7 M > KY > 9 50 51 Willis Martha 4 F > KY > 10 50 51 Willis John 2 M > KY > 11 50 51 Willis Hulda 10/12 F > KY > 12 50 51 Willis James M 36 M > KY > CENSUS YR: 1850 STATE or TERRITORY: KY COUNTY: Todd DIVISION: 1 PAGE > NO: 236b > ============================================================================ ============================================= > LN HN FN LAST NAME FIRST NAME AGE SEX RACE OCCUP. > VAL. BIRTHPLACE MRD. SCH. R/W DDB > ============================================================================ ============================================= > 1 598 603 Willis O G 28 M Farmer 600 > Ky > 2 598 603 Willis Martha 25 F > Ky > 3 598 603 Willis William 5 M > Ky > 4 598 603 Willis Robert 3 M > Ky > 5 598 603 Willis George 1 M > Ky > > 12 97 98 Willis Brewer 20 M Farmer > Ky X > 13 97 98 Willis Nancy 18 F > Ky > 28 226 227 Willis Tho T 33 M Carapenter > Va > REMARKS: Boarding House > 34 227 228 Willis James W 49 M Farmer > 6,000 SC > 35 227 228 Willis Mary 40 F > Va > 36 227 228 Willis Susan 21 F > Ky > 37 227 228 Willis William 19 M Farmer > Ky X > 38 227 228 Willis John 18 M Farmer > Ky X > 39 227 228 Willis Joel 14 M > Ky X > 40 227 228 Willis Josephus 12 M > Ky X > > CENSUS YR: 1850 STATE or TERRITORY: KY COUNTY: Todd DIVISION: 1 PAGE > NO: 211a > ============================================================================ ============================================= > LN HN FN LAST NAME FIRST NAME AGE SEX RACE OCCUP. > VAL. BIRTHPLACE MRD. SCH. R/W DDB > ============================================================================ ============================================= > 1 227 228 Willis Sarah 10 F > Ky X > 2 227 228 Willis James 8 M > Ky X > 3 227 228 Willis Robert 4 M > Ky > 4 227 228 Willis Mary 6 F > Ky > 5 227 228 Willis Taylor 1 M > Ky > > _________________________________________________________________ > Get your FREE download of MSN Explorer at http://explorer.msn.com > > > ============================== > Visit Ancestry's Library - The best collection of family history > learning and how-to articles on the Internet. > http://www.ancestry.com/learn/library >

This a message for any Willis that recognizes the name above. Floss is 92 years old. She is the last living child of Henry Gustus Willis and Martha Adeline Thomas. She has taught candle making, screen printing, cornshuck doll making, and probably a million other things at the Penland School of Crafts, since it first opened. She has opened her house and heart to everyone. She was diagnosed with lung cancer last week. She is expected to be at home for about 3 months. I'm sure that she would appreciate a note or a card. I'm not sure that she is up to a visit. You might call Harold or Hal Copley (son and grandson) or Sue Ford (niece-in-law) if you would like to visit. For those of you who don't know her, I'm sorry for taking up your time. She is a wonderful lady and deserves to go out in style! Anne Horton (her great-niece)

I need your help. I'm trying to determine the parents of the following Willises from the 1850 Todd Co., Ky Census. CENSUS YR: 1850 STATE or TERRITORY: KY COUNTY: Todd DIVISION: 1 PAGE NO: 199a ========================================================================================================================= LN HN FN LAST NAME FIRST NAME AGE SEX RACE OCCUP. VAL. BIRTHPLACE MRD. SCH. R/W DDB ========================================================================================================================= 1 50 51 Willis Sterling 46 M Farmer KY 2 50 51 Willis Martha 25 F KY X 3 50 51 Willis Mary 16 F KY 4 50 51 Willis Maria 14 F KY 5 50 51 Willis Elnora 12 F KY 6 50 51 Willis Elizabeth 8 F KY 7 50 51 Willis Sarah 5 F KY 8 50 51 Willis David 7 M KY 9 50 51 Willis Martha 4 F KY 10 50 51 Willis John 2 M KY 11 50 51 Willis Hulda 10/12 F KY 12 50 51 Willis James M 36 M KY CENSUS YR: 1850 STATE or TERRITORY: KY COUNTY: Todd DIVISION: 1 PAGE NO: 236b ========================================================================================================================= LN HN FN LAST NAME FIRST NAME AGE SEX RACE OCCUP. VAL. BIRTHPLACE MRD. SCH. R/W DDB ========================================================================================================================= 1 598 603 Willis O G 28 M Farmer 600 Ky 2 598 603 Willis Martha 25 F Ky 3 598 603 Willis William 5 M Ky 4 598 603 Willis Robert 3 M Ky 5 598 603 Willis George 1 M Ky 12 97 98 Willis Brewer 20 M Farmer Ky X 13 97 98 Willis Nancy 18 F Ky 28 226 227 Willis Tho T 33 M Carapenter Va REMARKS: Boarding House 34 227 228 Willis James W 49 M Farmer 6,000 SC 35 227 228 Willis Mary 40 F Va 36 227 228 Willis Susan 21 F Ky 37 227 228 Willis William 19 M Farmer Ky X 38 227 228 Willis John 18 M Farmer Ky X 39 227 228 Willis Joel 14 M Ky X 40 227 228 Willis Josephus 12 M Ky X CENSUS YR: 1850 STATE or TERRITORY: KY COUNTY: Todd DIVISION: 1 PAGE NO: 211a ========================================================================================================================= LN HN FN LAST NAME FIRST NAME AGE SEX RACE OCCUP. VAL. BIRTHPLACE MRD. SCH. R/W DDB ========================================================================================================================= 1 227 228 Willis Sarah 10 F Ky X 2 227 228 Willis James 8 M Ky X 3 227 228 Willis Robert 4 M Ky 4 227 228 Willis Mary 6 F Ky 5 227 228 Willis Taylor 1 M Ky _________________________________________________________________ Get your FREE download of MSN Explorer at http://explorer.msn.com

Hi, I'm looking for ancestors and further descendants for Isaiah Willis. The below info is all I have at this time. Isaiah and Susannah probably had more children, I only know of one right now. Thanks. Jan Melton 1. ISAIAH WILLIS - bca. 1770-80, md. Susannah COOPER Notes: a. 1801 GA Tax Digest - Lincoln Co., GA b. 1805 - Georgia Land Lottery, Lincoln Co., GA. c. 1810 - GA Tax Digest - Lincoln Co., GA d. 1849 - Headright Grant in Washington Co., GA. Child of ISAIAH WILLIS and SUSANNAH COOPER ..........2. JANE "JENNY" WILLIS, bca. 1797; md. PARRUM SUDDUTH on 3-6-1817 in Pistol Creek, Lincoln Co., GA, came to Alabama Territory around 1820. Parrum is buried in the Sudduth Family Cemetery and most likely Jane is also buried there. ...................3. MITCHELL H. SUDDUTH - b. 4-10-1819, Mooresbridge, Tuscaloosa Co., Alabama., d. 12-11-1889; married circa 1840 to MARY G. ______, (born ca. 1821, d. 4-30-1905).

> My line seems to be connecting to Col. Henry Willis and his second wife with > their John Willis of Fredricksburg, VA.  The story was three brother came > over to America.  John, William, and Francis.  John Willis b. 1728 married > Nanny Spotswood or Price.  He came to SC with the other families.  He sold > his land in VA in 1749 and moved.  He bought land in Congarees area.  I > have documents that say Craven Co., Granville Co., SC and Barnwell, > Orangeburg Dist. SC and Edgefield County.  Some of the family moved to KY, > and Lexington and Aiken Co., SC.  John Willis had a son named John Willis > born about 1755, others are Robert, Lewis, Price.  D  His name is John > Daniel Willis.  They lived in Orangeburgh District SC near the ninety Six > District.  One document says it is like a V and they lived in the top of > the V turned upside down.  John Daniel Willis married Margaret Williams > whose family is Joseph and Lucy Burton Williams of Cloud Creek area.  This > is the same area that John Willis b. 1728.  John Daniel and Margaret Willis > children are Daniel, Edenton "Ed", Darling, and Sarah Willis Sawyer.  My > line is Daniel Willis born 1812 married to Emaline Fox of Orangeburg Dist. > SC.  They lived what is now Monetta, SC.  part is in Saluda Co. and part in > Aiken Co., SC.  If there is anyone who have different or more info, please > share.  Tommie in SC > Tommie Willis Provost > 2537 Etiwan Avenue > Charleston, SC  29414 >

Hello, Do any of you have any information on this John DUNCAN who was born in VA, 1710, and died in Vauquier Co., VA, 1795? He was the father of my 6th g-grandmother Mary ?Elizabeth? DUNCAN who married William MORGAN about 1762 in Fauquier Co. She died before 1767 VA. William MORGAN was born 1719, Richmond Co., VA, and died 1797, Lincoln Co., KY. He was the son of Charles MORGAN, Sr. and his wife, Anna. Several people have told me that Anna was Anna DUNCAN and several have told me she was Anna THORNTON. If anyone has any information on her, I would certainly appreciate it. Mary ?Elizabeth? DUNCAN and William MORGAN had several children, one being Mary MORGAN, born 1747, Prince William Co., VA, died before 1806, Fauquier Co., VA. She married George SETTLE about 1762, Fauquier Co., VA. When George Settle was in his 70's, he moved, along with several of their adult children and their families, to Barren Co., KY, around 1806, I think. I am a descendant of their daughter, Hannah SETTLE, born 1765, Fauquier Co., VA, died before 20 May 1820, Barren Co., KY. She married William WILLIS about 1787 in Fauquier Co., VA. He was born 1765, Fauquier Co., died Dec 1845, Barren Co., KY. I think he was the son of Charles WILLIS, who was the son of Matilda THACKER and Charles WILLIS of King George Co., VA. The last Charles Willis was the son of John WILLIS who died 1715, Richmond Co., VA. I would love to learn more about any of these families. I know absolutely nothing about the DUNCAN family. Someone sent me some information showing that John DUNCAN, born about 1730, died 1776, VA, who married Elizabeth HOLTZCLAW [daughter of Catherine RUSSELL and John HOLTZCLAW] was a son of my John DUNCAN, but I don't know if this is so. I hope each of you have a wonderful weekend, and I look forward to hearing from you. I will be happy to share what I have. Warm regards, Sharon Clark Fort Worth, TX clarksha@swbell.net.

Sharon, you should be aware that DeHuff issued four Willis Books, each a revision of the former. I believe all four are in the Family History Library at Salt Lake City. Joy Herron ----- Original Message ----- From: "Sharon Clark" <clarksha@swbell.net> To: <WILLIS-L@rootsweb.com> Sent: Thursday, January 11, 2001 5:40 PM Subject: WILLIS Family Book > Hello, > > Do any of you have this book? > > This is what the Library of VA has on it on their web page: > > CALL NO CS71 W73 1962 > AUTHOR DeHuff, Elizabeth (Willis) 1886- > MAIN TITLE Descendants of John Willis, of will in Richmond County, > Virginia, 1715 [as far > as found by September 1960. > PUBLISHER Augusta, Ga., 1962] 062117110523 > > I tried to get it through interlibrary loan, but my library called today > and said no one was willing to loan it. I have searched the LDS online > catalog and they don't have it, either. I would love to have a copy of > it. > > Thanks. > > Sharon Clark > Fort Worth, TX > clarksha@swbell.net > >

Hi Glenda, These mailing lists are controlled by robots. They are VERY efficient, but not very bright. They are limited in what they can understand, so you have to do it THEIR way or they don't know what you're talking about. In other words, send an e-mail to willis-d-request@rootsweb.com and in the message area, put only one word: unsubscribe. You can do the same thing, if you are on their "L" list as well. But you have to send your e-mail from the SAME address that they mail to you. If you've changed your address, even a little bit, that may be the problem. If all else fails, write to Willis-admin@rootsweb.com John New Orleans --------------------------- GLENDA CARNEY wrote: > > Unsuscribe-----I've lost count of the times I've tried to unsubscribe!! If > this doesn't do it, please advise how to unsubscribe. > ----- Original Message ----- > From: <WILLIS-D-request@rootsweb.com> > To: <WILLIS-D@rootsweb.com> > Sent: Monday, January 22, 2001 4:01 PM > Subject: WILLIS-D Digest V01 #3 > > ============================== > Shop Ancestry - Everything you need to Discover, Preserve & Celebrate > your heritage! > http://shop.myfamily.com/ancestrycatalog

Unsuscribe-----I've lost count of the times I've tried to unsubscribe!! If this doesn't do it, please advise how to unsubscribe. ----- Original Message ----- From: <WILLIS-D-request@rootsweb.com> To: <WILLIS-D@rootsweb.com> Sent: Monday, January 22, 2001 4:01 PM Subject: WILLIS-D Digest V01 #3

Have links with a Willis family from Plymouth, Devon, UK. Robert Willis (a dairyman) had daughter Anne born circa 1829. Does this 'ring any bells' with anyone? Felicity

Can anyone help? I am looking for the parents of a Frederick WILLIS. He has been found in the 1881 and 1891 census as below. 1881 Census Dwelling: 2 Finchley Cottages Census Place: Fisherton Anger, Wiltshire, England Fred WILLIS M 28 M Basingstoke, Hampshire, England Rel: Head Occ: Railway Fireman 1891 Census Wilton Rd. (Malmesbury Cottages), Fisherton Anger 1617/035/29 WILLIS FRED 38 HAM HE I also have his marriage certificate from Sep 1879 in Wilton which has his age at 26 and living in Fisherton Anger although his wife is living in Wilton. I have looked for a birth record for Fred / Frederick Willis in 1852 - 1854 but none are anywhere near Basingstoke as recorded in 1881. Could someone please look in the 1881 census for Fisherton Anger for any other WILLIS family. If someone has the 1871 census for there I would appreciate any info on any WILLIS found then. Thanks. David Taylor Walton, Surrey

See Over 5,000 Willis Cousins under Genealogy Links at Willis Web Site: http://www.randywillis.org/ ----- Original Message ----- From: "Wayne Stafford" <wstaff@cox-internet.com> To: <WILLIS-L@rootsweb.com> Sent: Tuesday, January 16, 2001 11:57 AM Subject: William Stephen Willis - Henderson County, Texas > I am looking for the parents fo William Stephen Willis and his wife Martha Davis, or any descendants of this couple. Many of their children moved to the Lamesa, Dawson County, Texas. > ____________________________________________________________________________ _____________________ > Family Group Sheet William Stephen Willis > ____________________________________________________________________________ _____________________ > Husband: William Stephen WILLIS died at age: 46 > Born: 15 Feb 1832 in: Tennessee > Died: 10 Feb 1879 in: Henderson Co, TX > Buried: in: Sand Flat Cemetery- Pioneer Section, Henderson Co, TX > ____________________________________________________________________________ _____________________ > PIONEER GRAVE WILL BE MARKED GRANITE STONE By R. E. Sparkman, Italy, Texas > I am sure it will be interesting to many of the older people in Henderson County to know that the grave of > William Stephen Willis, an early pioneer settler in your county and gallant Confederate soldier who died near > Athens on February 10, 1879, is soon to be marked with a granite maker provided by the government. > With the marking of this grave an interesting story is revealed of a man who was born in Talapoosa County, > Alabama in the year 1832 and came to Kaufman County in 1847. He was married to Eligabeth Davis in 1852. > Moving to Henderson County, William Willis became a farmer and freighter, and I am informed helped to hall > lumber from Jefferson, using oxens to build many of the first houses built in Athens. > At the outbreak of the Civil War he joined Capt. Warrens Company, Bass Regiment of Mounted Calvary and > served until his health, impaired, brought about his discharge in 1863. He returned home and continued to > freight by wagon and oxen and lived about four miles north and a little East of Athens and died there February > 10, 1879. He was buried in what was then known as the Cox or Sand Hills Cemetery. Just before his death he > had cut a limb from a Sycamore tree and was using it for a whip staff. After his burial his daughter took the > Sycamore staff and stuck it in the ground at the head of his grave. It took roots and grew and is today a large > Sycamore tree which stands as a memorial to this pioneer settler and Confederate soldier. As the tree grew the > name of the Cemetery, I am reformed, was changed and is now known as the Sycamore Cemetery*, taking its > name from this stately tree which grew from a whip staff placed there 63 years ago by the loving hands of a > devoted daughter. > Mr and Mrs Willis were the parents of a large number of children, the only survivor is the youngest son, the Rev. > W. S. Willis, pastor of the Church of Christ, Bridgeport, Texas, who made application for the marker. He has > been in the ministry for 34 years and was reared in the vicinity where his parents settled in the early days. > Mr. Willis supplied the writer with the material fro the above story and submitted a poem dedicated to his > father's grave and is now a historic tree in Henderson County. > * Note the name of the cemetery where William Stephen Willis is buried known at the Sand Flat Pioneer Cemetery > ____________________________________________________________________________ _______________________ > Wife: Margaret A DAVIS died at age: 46 > Born: 9 Aug 1837 in: Alabama > Died: 20 Jan 1884 in: Henderson Co, TX > Buried: Smith Cemetery, Henderson Co, TX > ____________________________________________________________________________ ______________________ > F Child 1 > Sarah Jane Elizabeth WILLIS died at age: 76 > Born: 8 Jul 1862 in: Henderson Co, TX > Died: 7 Nov 1938 in: Turkey Creek, Henderson Co, TX > Buried: 8 Nov 1938 in: Smith Cemetery, Henderson Co, TX > > Husband: Thomas Jefferson PIERCE b. 7 Aug 1860 d. 5 Sep 1949 > Marriage: 13 Aug 1882 in: Athens, Henderson Co, Texas > ____________________________________________________________________________ ______________________ > M Child 2 Joseph Windle WILLIS died at age: 76 > Born: 24 Sep 1864 in Henderson Co, TX > Died: 3 Dec 1940 in: Lamesa, Dawson Co, TX > Husband: Willie PIPER > ____________________________________________________________________________ ______________________ > F Child 3 Martha Lucinda WILLIS > Born: 19 Mar 1867 in Henderson Co, TX > Spouse: Coon CAPLES > Married: 5 Jun 1883, Henderson Co, TX > ____________________________________________________________________________ ______________________ > F Child 4 Margaret "Amanda" C WILLIS > Born: 9 Aug 1869 in Henderson Co, TX > Spouse: Culbertson G "Gip" HUDSON > Married: 26 Dec 1889 in: Henderson Co, TX > ____________________________________________________________________________ ______________________ > F Child 5 > Mary WILLIS > Born: 1870 in Henderson Co, TX > Spouse: Ed HANSON > ____________________________________________________________________________ _____________________ > F Child 6 > W A "Missie" WILLIS > Born: 19 Mar 1872 in Henderson Co, TX > Spouse: W R HOLLOWAY > Married: 17 Oct 1880 in: Henderson Co, TX > ____________________________________________________________________________ ____________________ > F Child 7 > Emma WILLIS > Born: 27 Jan1875 > Spouse: G Taylor BEASON > Married: 20 Sep 1891 in Henderson Co, TX > ____________________________________________________________________________ ____________________ > F Child 8 > Addeline WILLIS died at age: 33 > Born: 18 Jtm 1877 in Henderson Co, TX > Died: 28 Sep 1910 in: Tucumcari, Quay, NM > Buried: El Paso, E1 Paso Co, TX > Spouse: Herbert B FAULKNER > Born: 1876 > ____________________________________________________________________________ _____________________ > M Child 9 William Stephens WILLIS Jr died at age: 90 > Born: 5 Feb 1879 in: Henderson Co, TX > Died: _ Apr 1969 > Spouse: Oma MILES b. 1883 > > William Stephen Willis Jr. was a Church of Christ minister in the Fort Worth area. > ____________________________________________________________________________ _____________________ > > Wayne Stafford > http://www.cox-internet.com/wstafford/index.htm > > > ============================== > Create a FREE family website at MyFamily.com! > http://www.myfamily.com/banner.asp?ID=RWLIST2 > >

I am looking for the parents fo William Stephen Willis and his wife Martha Davis, or any descendants of this couple. Many of their children moved to the Lamesa, Dawson County, Texas. _________________________________________________________________________________________________ Family Group Sheet William Stephen Willis _________________________________________________________________________________________________ Husband: William Stephen WILLIS died at age: 46 Born: 15 Feb 1832 in: Tennessee Died: 10 Feb 1879 in: Henderson Co, TX Buried: in: Sand Flat Cemetery- Pioneer Section, Henderson Co, TX _________________________________________________________________________________________________ PIONEER GRAVE WILL BE MARKED GRANITE STONE By R. E. Sparkman, Italy, Texas I am sure it will be interesting to many of the older people in Henderson County to know that the grave of William Stephen Willis, an early pioneer settler in your county and gallant Confederate soldier who died near Athens on February 10, 1879, is soon to be marked with a granite maker provided by the government. With the marking of this grave an interesting story is revealed of a man who was born in Talapoosa County, Alabama in the year 1832 and came to Kaufman County in 1847. He was married to Eligabeth Davis in 1852. Moving to Henderson County, William Willis became a farmer and freighter, and I am informed helped to hall lumber from Jefferson, using oxens to build many of the first houses built in Athens. At the outbreak of the Civil War he joined Capt. Warrens Company, Bass Regiment of Mounted Calvary and served until his health, impaired, brought about his discharge in 1863. He returned home and continued to freight by wagon and oxen and lived about four miles north and a little East of Athens and died there February 10, 1879. He was buried in what was then known as the Cox or Sand Hills Cemetery. Just before his death he had cut a limb from a Sycamore tree and was using it for a whip staff. After his burial his daughter took the Sycamore staff and stuck it in the ground at the head of his grave. It took roots and grew and is today a large Sycamore tree which stands as a memorial to this pioneer settler and Confederate soldier. As the tree grew the name of the Cemetery, I am reformed, was changed and is now known as the Sycamore Cemetery*, taking its name from this stately tree which grew from a whip staff placed there 63 years ago by the loving hands of a devoted daughter. Mr and Mrs Willis were the parents of a large number of children, the only survivor is the youngest son, the Rev. W. S. Willis, pastor of the Church of Christ, Bridgeport, Texas, who made application for the marker. He has been in the ministry for 34 years and was reared in the vicinity where his parents settled in the early days. Mr. Willis supplied the writer with the material fro the above story and submitted a poem dedicated to his father's grave and is now a historic tree in Henderson County. * Note the name of the cemetery where William Stephen Willis is buried known at the Sand Flat Pioneer Cemetery ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ Wife: Margaret A DAVIS died at age: 46 Born: 9 Aug 1837 in: Alabama Died: 20 Jan 1884 in: Henderson Co, TX Buried: Smith Cemetery, Henderson Co, TX __________________________________________________________________________________________________ F Child 1 Sarah Jane Elizabeth WILLIS died at age: 76 Born: 8 Jul 1862 in: Henderson Co, TX Died: 7 Nov 1938 in: Turkey Creek, Henderson Co, TX Buried: 8 Nov 1938 in: Smith Cemetery, Henderson Co, TX Husband: Thomas Jefferson PIERCE b. 7 Aug 1860 d. 5 Sep 1949 Marriage: 13 Aug 1882 in: Athens, Henderson Co, Texas __________________________________________________________________________________________________ M Child 2 Joseph Windle WILLIS died at age: 76 Born: 24 Sep 1864 in Henderson Co, TX Died: 3 Dec 1940 in: Lamesa, Dawson Co, TX Husband: Willie PIPER __________________________________________________________________________________________________ F Child 3 Martha Lucinda WILLIS Born: 19 Mar 1867 in Henderson Co, TX Spouse: Coon CAPLES Married: 5 Jun 1883, Henderson Co, TX __________________________________________________________________________________________________ F Child 4 Margaret "Amanda" C WILLIS Born: 9 Aug 1869 in Henderson Co, TX Spouse: Culbertson G "Gip" HUDSON Married: 26 Dec 1889 in: Henderson Co, TX __________________________________________________________________________________________________ F Child 5 Mary WILLIS Born: 1870 in Henderson Co, TX Spouse: Ed HANSON _________________________________________________________________________________________________ F Child 6 W A "Missie" WILLIS Born: 19 Mar 1872 in Henderson Co, TX Spouse: W R HOLLOWAY Married: 17 Oct 1880 in: Henderson Co, TX ________________________________________________________________________________________________ F Child 7 Emma WILLIS Born: 27 Jan1875 Spouse: G Taylor BEASON Married: 20 Sep 1891 in Henderson Co, TX ________________________________________________________________________________________________ F Child 8 Addeline WILLIS died at age: 33 Born: 18 Jtm 1877 in Henderson Co, TX Died: 28 Sep 1910 in: Tucumcari, Quay, NM Buried: El Paso, E1 Paso Co, TX Spouse: Herbert B FAULKNER Born: 1876 _________________________________________________________________________________________________ M Child 9 William Stephens WILLIS Jr died at age: 90 Born: 5 Feb 1879 in: Henderson Co, TX Died: _ Apr 1969 Spouse: Oma MILES b. 1883 William Stephen Willis Jr. was a Church of Christ minister in the Fort Worth area. _________________________________________________________________________________________________ Wayne Stafford http://www.cox-internet.com/wstafford/index.htm

Contact: Randy Willis randy@randywillis.org www.randywillis.org Joseph Willis and General Francis Marion AKA the "Swamp Fox" "The British soldier trembles When Marion's name is told." -- Bryant. The movie "The Patriot" was filmed in Chester, York, Charleston, and Georgtown counties in South Carolina. The biggest part was filmed on the Guy Darby Farm on the Chester/York county line. Just as the movie portrays, Joseph Willis and General Francis Marion also operated out of the South Carolina swamps. Joseph Willis was a Patriot during the Revolutionary War. Joseph and a friend from Bladen County, Ezekiel O’Quin, left North Carolina for South Carolina to join up with General Francis Marion, the "Swamp Fox." Marion operated out of the swampy forest of the Pedee region in the lower part of South Carolina. His strategy was to surprise the enemy, cut his supply lines, kill their men and release any American prisoners they might have. He and his men then retreated swiftly back again to the thick recesses of the deep swamps. They were feared, very effective and their fame was widespread. They also took great pride in themselves. Marion’s orderly book states, "Every officer to provide himself with a blue coatee, faced and cuffed with scarlet cloth, and lined with scarlet; white buttons; and a white waistcoat and breeches…also, a cap and a black feather…" Joseph would later proudly tell the family, "We were called Marion men." The lessons learned with Marion would serve him well his entire life. Joseph was proud of his service under Marion, and risk his life to be a Patriot, for at the time in Bladen County, 1777, it was estimated that two-thirds of the people were Tories. An oath of allegiance to the state was required in North Carolina and those refusing to take it were required to leave the state within sixty-days. How did Marion, a scrawny, semi-literate man, become one of the greatest generals of the American Revolution? The American colonists and soldiers loved him and he earned the nickname "Swamp Fox" from the British soldiers. Marion was so popular that children and cities were named after him. Francis Marion was born in 1732 in what was to become South Carolina. As a baby, Marion was tiny, frail and sickly, and it was said he was no bigger than a lobster. It is probably not surprising that he was a sickly child due to the swampy areas around which he grew up. As Marion got older, he enjoyed playing in the swamps. He learned about the local Indians, how they fought and survived in the swamp. He knew the swamps like the back of his hand and it was said that he never got lost. Little did he realize how much this would help him in the future. At the age of 15, Marion wanted to become a sailor. So, against the wishes of his family, he set sail on a ship bound for the West Indies. On his first voyage, the ship sank and Marion, along with several other crewmen, were adrift at sea for a week before their lifeboat finally drifted aground. It was lucky for Marion, who didn't know how to swim. By 1760, the Cherokee War hit South Carolina and Marion became a lieutenant in the militia. He proved himself to be a good horseman and marksman, again qualities that were to be of use in the future. After this brief war, Marion retired to the life of a farmer, becoming quite successful and owning lots of land. But the growing storm that was to become the Revolutionary war brought Marion out of retirement. Like many others, he considered himself a Patriot and loved his freedom. Based on past experience, Marion was made Captain in the Continental Army. Because of his success, he climbed the promotional ladder to Major, Colonel, and, eventually, to General. Marion decided the only way to effectively battle the British was with guerrilla tactics. Many of his officers and men questioned this style of fighting at first. To them, it wasn't honorable to strike, then retreat without giving a full fight to the English army. Eventually, they realized that this was a smart way to fight and was the best suited to their style of warfare. Marion and his soldiers would concentrate their attacks on British supply camps and the supply lines themselves. They would rest during the day and march at night, quite often attacking at midnight. Marion was able to cut the supply lines linking the British occupied cities and chased and harassed various British leaders, most notably Colonel Banastre Tarleton. Marion displayed a natural talent for strategy and tactics and was known for his personal bravery. He is considered by most to be the father of the U.S. Army Special Forces because of his unique innovations. For example, scouts would always ride ahead to prevent ambushes. Some of them would hide in the top of tall trees and signal with shrill whistles. This was done at night when Marion would march and attack. If a bridge had to be crossed near an enemy post, blankets would be laid on the wooden planks to muffle the horses hoofs. A campfire was never used twice and when planning a raid, Marion kept the target to himself until the last moment. This strategy bewildered the British who would chase after Marion into the swamps, only to loose him. The British complained that it was an unfair method of fighting a war and they felt that the Americans didn't play by the rules of "civilized warfare." Eventually, British Colonel Tarleton, who often chased Marion into the swamps, gave Marion the nickname of the "Swamp Fox." "The devil himself could not catch that old fox," said Tarleton. This name stuck and colonists thought it was humorous that their hero was compared to a fox. As the Revolutionary War raged on, Marion's success grew. He fought in battles at Kings Mountain, Cowpens, Guilford Courthouse, Georgetown, and finally Eutaw Springs in August 1781. All of this led up to the British surrender in October of that same year. After the war, Marion retired back to his plantation where he married Mary Videau. Marion also showed his love and loyalty to country by serving terms in the South Carolina Senate until South Carolina became a member of the union. Marion lived the rest of his life on his farm. He was loved by the community and often helped his fellow veterans in time of need. As the memory of war faded, Marion's exploits became more famous. What were once small skirmishes turned into big battles. He became a hero of the Revolution, second only to George Washington. On Feb. 27, 1795, Francis Marion died at the age of 63. He was remembered as an honorable citizen as well as a gallant soldier. Marion epitomized the successful citizen-soldier. For this reason, years after the war, thousands of parents named sons Francis Marion. Not only were children named after him, but scattered over the present United States, there are over 29 cities and towns and 17 counties named after Marion. If you'd like to learn more about Francis Marion, there is a complete history available: http://foclark.tripod.com/revwar/marion.html Notes: Over the years, numerous descendants of Rev. Joseph Willis have asked me if any "absolute" proof exist of Joseph Willis' service in the Revolutionary War. Most have desired this information to join: Sons and Daughters of the American Revolution , National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution (NSDAR) and/or National Society of the Sons of the American Revolution (NSSAR). Marion's troops were basically a guerrilla force, raised irregularly from the backwoods of South Carolina, no roster was kept. The only published record of the men who fought under him comes from the claims that were later filed for militia pay against the state of South Carolina. Joseph Willis, Richard Curtis and Ezekiel O'Quinn said they fought under Marion in the Revolutionary War; but none of them filed for militia pay. William W. Broddie complied a book, from the stub indents of the militia pay, entitled "Marion's Men, A List of Twenty-five Hundred" (1938). Only those who filed for militia pay are in it. Several early-1800 and mid-1800 authors, including W.E. Paxton, recorded that Joseph was a Marion man; but more important is Joseph Willis' own testimony to his friends, children and grandchildren. In addition, many courthouses with vital records were lost, eight decades later, in the Civil War as a result of General Sherman and other northern forces burning the courthouses.

Contact: Randy Willis randy@randywillis.org www.randywillis.org Two Letters from General John Willis to his wife Asenath Barnes Willis "Two letter from John Willis to his wife, Asenath Barnes Willis, have been preserved in the Willis Family Papers at the Robeson County Public Library. Like his will, they reveal something of the education, character and feelings for his family of this early 'first citizen' of Robeson County." "In addition, one of them tells more of his interest in many phases of public life and government and shows him to have been a dreamer in advance of his time." One letter, written from Georgetown, South Carolina in March 1791, adds some details to the stories about the importance of water transportation and the use of Drowning Creek as access to Georgetown and the ports beyond. "From this letter it can be inferred that a 'Mr. Pittman' probably from the Lumberton area, had barged his barrels of turpentine down the river to Georgetown and had then arranged for their shipment from there on some vessel on which John Willis was proceeding to Charleston." John Willis was an agent for English importers and exporters, and his trip was likely in connection with this business. This letter, like his will, indicates that he had strong concerns for his children, the oldest of whom were in their teens at the time. The letter suggest that he was probably sending it to Lumberton by Mr. Pittman. Georgetown 17th of March 1791 Dear Asenath, Two days ago Mr. Pittman came down and shipped his barrels on board the same vessel that I am going into Charleston, and he had determined to go himself, which I though he would decline after the novelty of the thing had worn off and he has done so and is set off home this evening. Upwards of two days I have been loaded, the wind still unfair. I cannot say when I shall be off and do expect the business will be greatly retarded. Don't look for me soon, though, I have heretofore returned sooner than you expected. I shall be away longer than I could have thought. At all events I shall not come home in a whim because I am homesick, as I am at this time, to arrange matters of more consequence to me in the future. I keep my health exceedingly well. I shall conclude by reminding you that I feel anxious about the children, as Mrs. Willis, and they as my children will never be degraded by a baseness of disposition common to our place. If I live the life of a beggar or was so [not legible] as to the instrument of my death it shall never once enter my [not legible] thought to do an act that would not bear the scrutiny of the entire world. I feel an anxiety to say more but have not an opportunity I am writing on board the sloop and Mr. Pittman is going away, I am, My dear Your, J. Willis Raleigh, 13th January 1795 My Dear Asenath: I have therefore omitted to write you that I might have something worth communicating, but yet there has not a bill of importance passed into law, except one to finally prevent the importation of slaves in this state except by persons coming here to settle. There is every evidence of a long session and I greatly fear a favorable determination will not take place with regards to my principal object. General Davis introduced a bill to establish a separate court of Chancery in the State, and Mr. Taylor brought a bill to establish a court of errors and Appeals. I have introduced a bill to establish a Superior Court in every county, I am alone in the advocate, the whole faculty are against me. They greatly fear it and I hope it will pass. At all events, I will be conscious of having done my duty. I was to risk on opinion I would say I think it will pass. I shall tell the truths on this subject that I believe are dreaded. We have accounts here that an express is gone from Charleston to Norfolk with news of a general peace with all the powers at war with France except England. It is generally believed. I have been much oppressed with a violent cold which makes it very inconvenient for me to attend the House owing to an extreme hoarseness. I will write to you again next week. I believe it possible will be at home by the first of next month. Our neighbors in town can have the benefit of the perusal of this letter, if you think it proper. I am my dear, Yours J. Willis

Contact: Randy Willis randy@randywillis.org www.randywillis.org General John Willis' Will I, John Wilis of the town of Lumberton and County of Robeson, in the State of North Carolina, do intend to set out on the first day of April to the State of Tennessee on public business, and as all men have one time to die and the time thereof wisely concealed from their knowledge, and as I may never return, it becomes necessary that I should make such disposition of my affairs as may tend to promote the interest and happiness of my family. I make this my last will and testament; It is my will that all just debts be paid and discharged, and that my whole estate both real and personal be fairly and equally divided among all my children, except the provision thereafter made for their mother . It is my will that she may have her choice of any of the houses to live in that I now possess, and the profits of the Grist Mill on the Raft Swamp during her life, and her choice of any two of my negro fellows, and wench, and [not legible] the stock, plantation fools, and house furniture as she may think pro[not legible] and to retain, and that the several shares of Children's Estate shall be kept together by her to support them while the continue unmarried and under age, and that no pains be spared in their education. I feel distressed with the idea that my family may in some measure be thrown on a merciless world. I have always endeavored to maintain them in a respectable and genteel way of life. Having lived in a country where my disposition and way of living has created much malice. I have enemies that have greatly influenced me and they will influence my family, and persecute me in the grave. I have lived about their meanness. I beg my Children to be just and virtuous, never to disgrace my name or theirs, and then they are out of fortune's power. From a variety of circumstances I have always been involved in debit and made great sacrifices for the public good and great exertions to keep my self and my family in a respectable situation. I am trying indeed hard to settle my affairs. Let this warn my children to take care of themselves so they will not be under the same necessity as the same circumstance will not exist with them as with me. But if they do not observe economy, punctuality, honor and justice they will never be happy. Whenever they are about to marry or form connections for life, I wish they would inquire of themselves, if they are such as would be agreeable to me (if living) to keep the same object in view in all their connections and company they may keep, this may be some guide to them as their happiness was ever my principal object. In settlement of my debts, I wish my Executors to be cautious. I am well aware false accounts will be exhibited against me by which I fear my Estate may suffer. In fact, I pay many unjust accounts now, in settling matters standing. I do this for the sake of character. I do hereby appoint my wife, who knows more of my affairs than anyone else and is capable of forming a better judgment, as Executrix of my will. I appoint Colonel Elias Barnes, Josiah Barnes and Thomas Barnes my Executors, as Thomas Barnes is not rich and as I esteem him greatly for his honesty, integrity, good understandings and above all his regard for me. He must be paid well for his services. It is my wish that if David Kerr, Esq. continues to teach the Academy of Lumberton, that my Executors may give him to the value of two hundred dollars out my lands near Lumberton a little farm for his paying particular attention to my children. It is my will and I do hereby give to my wife and my Executors full power in case of absolute necessity to sell any part of my estate real or personal to pay my debts and to execute titles for the same and to save as much as possible from being sacrificed. A copy of this will was found in the John Willis papers at the library. The closing paragraph and signature are missing. It is not recorded in Robeson County, but may be in Mississippi. At the time this will was made, John Willis was in the midst of controversies over vacant land speculations. He carried on a bitter exchange of correspondence in the Fayetteville newspaper with a George James of New York, who accused Willis and which Willis strongly denied. He concluded his last letter with this final remark. "I now believe that I shall take my leave of the subject forever, and the public may decide as they think proper." "Whether it was because of the criticism of his land dealings or his later defeat for the Senate or the prospect of a new exciting life in the Natchez Territory, John Willis disposed of his extensive holdings here and prepared to move to Mississippi. A deed in 1801 to William Norment for more than eight hundred acres surrounding the new town of Lumberton on the south and east describe John Willis as being a resident of Fayetteville. His lands to the north and west of Lumberton passed to Jacob Rhodes, although a recorded deed for them has not been found." According to family papers, his caravan of carriages, wagons and slaves traveled west through the Swannanoa Gap in North Carolina, then down the French Broad River to the Tennessee River and then north by that river to the Ohio and down the Mississippi. "While this seems a roundabout way of going to the Southwest, the available water transportation made it easier than an overland route the entire way. The papers state that he spent 'a season' in Nashville while on this trek. He died (only two months after arriving) on April 22, 1802 and is buried in Natchez.