Thomas and Nancy Young Gillespie Bowen Ferguson
The first known Ferguson in our history was Thomas Ferguson born 1766 in Virginia. It is believed that he was the son of Thomas Ferguson and Elizabeth who came over from Great Britain to Virginia between 1741-1744 and settled in Prince William County. This Thomas Sr. is also said to have been given a land grant by the Crown and was a Justice of the Peace, a surveyor in the French and Indian War and a soldier in the Revolutionary War who died at the Battle of Kings Mountain on October 7, 1 780. His widow Elizabeth is said to have lived on many years staying with her children. It is also said she never remarried. The only known child of this Thomas and Elizabeth was Thomas born 1766.
The history of our early Ferguson family in America is unknown. Many documents were destroyed during our wars and during the transition of one county to another, many times documents were destroyed. Thus the task of learning about our early American Ferguson families must be put together by research and hopefully correct guesses.
Thomas is said to have been born between the years 1756-1766. It is known he served in the Revolutionary War as a carrier and a private. Thomas served under the following men in the Revolutionary War: Captain Benjamin Spiller, Colonel Gregory Smith, Colonel William Brent and Captain Augustine Tabb.
Thomas, along with his wife Nancy, are buried in Storm Cemetery, Hobbieville, Greene County, Indiana and here is their story.
The first recorded record of our Thomas Ferguson born 1766 was on March 15, 1778 when he was listed on the company payroll as Thos. Forguson, Private, in the 2nd Virginia State Regiment in Captain Benjamin 5piller's Company, under the command of Colonel Gregory Smith. His pay was ten dollars for a period of 1 and 1/2 months at 6 and 2/3rds dollars per month. This covered a period between March 15th to May lst.
On June l, 1778, Thos. Forguson, Private, listed on company payroll of the 2nd Virginia State Regiment, Captain Benjamin Spillar's Company, commanded by Colonel Gregory Smith. Pay for month of May 1778, 6 and 2/3rds dollars.
In July 1778, Thos. Ferguson, listed on the company muster roll, dated June 4th, Valley Forge, shows term of enlistment of 3 years, rank as Private, 2nd Virginia State Regiment, Captain Benjamin C. Spillar's Company, commanded by Coloney Gregory Smith. The 2nd Virginia State, 5th division, 1 st Virginia Brigade, entered Valley Forge May 1778 with 402 man assigned, 396 fit for duty. The unit left Valley Forge with 401 man assigned, 299 fit for duty to replace the 13 Virginia. Staff officers were Colonel Gregory Smith, Lt Colonel Charles Dabney, Lt. Colonel William Brent and Major John Lee. Company officers were Captain Peter Bernard, Captain John Lewis, Captain Harry Dudley, Captain Henry Garnett, Captain Thomas Bressic, Captain James Quarles, Captain Benjamin Spiller and Captain Phil Taliaferro. Staff officers were Quartermaster Thomas Collie, Adjutant Samuel Carey, Surgeon Mate Lodowick Brodie, Quartermaster Sergeant Thomas Glover, Sergeant Major Thomas Gardner, Drum Major James Taylor and Fife Major Simon Harrison.
In July 1778 to August 1, 1778, Thos. Forguson, company payroll of the 2nd Virginia State Regiment, Captain Benjamin Spillar's Company, commanded by Colonel Gregory Smith, pay for month of June, 6 and 2/3rds dollars.
In September 1778, Thos. Ferguson, Private, company pay roll, 2nd Virginia State Regiment, Captain Benjamin Spillar's Company, commanded by Colonel Gregory Smith, pay for month of July, 6 and 2/3rds dollars.
On September 8, 1778, Thos. Forguson, Private, 2nd Virginia State Regiment, Captain Benjamin C. Spillar's Company, listed as `present' at White Plains, Brunswick County, Virginia. Time to serve shown as March 1, 1780.
In October 1778, company pay roll, Thos. Fargurson, Private, Captain Benjamin Spillar's Company, commanded by Colonel Gregory Smith, 2nd Virginia State Regiment, pay per month of 6 and 2/3rds dollars. Paid for period August and September 1778, 13 and 1/3rd dollars.
In November 1778, company pay roll, Thos. Forgurson, Private, Captain Benjamin Spillar's Company, commanded by Colonel Gregory Smith, 2nd Virginia State Regiment, paid 6 and 2/3rds dollars for month of October.
In December 1778, company pay roll, Thos. Fargurson, Private, 2nd Virginia State Regiment, Captain Benjamin Spillar's Company, commanded by Colonel Gregory Smith, paid 6 and 2/3rds dollar for month of November 1778.
In January 1779, company pay roll, Thos. Fargurson, Private, 2nd Virginia State Regiment, Captain Benjamin Spillar's Company, commanded by Colonel G. Smith, paid 6 and 2/3rds dollars for month of December 1778.
In February 1779, company pay roll, Thomas Fargurson, Private, 2nd Virginia State Regiment, Captain Benjamin Spillar's Company, commanded by Colonel G. Smith, paid 6 and 2/3rds dollars for month of January 1779.
In March 1779, company pay roll, Thos. Fergurson, Private, 2nd Virginia State Regiment, Captain Benjamin Spillar's Company, commanded by Colonel G. Smith, pay for month of February 1779 was 6 and 2/3rds dollars.
In April 1779, company pay roll, Thos. Fergurson, Private, 2nd Virginia State Regiment, Captain Benjamin Spillar's Company, commanded by Colonel G. Smith, pay for period of March 1779 was 6 and 2/3rds dollars.
In May 1779, company pay roll, Thos. Fargurson, Private, 2nd Virginia State Regiment, Captain Benjamin Spillar's Company, commanded by Colonel William Brent, who took over after Colonel Gregory Smith resigned on May 2, 1779. Pay for April 1779 was 6 and 2/3rds dollars.
In June 1779, company pay roll, Thomas Furguson, Private, 2nd Virginia State Regiment, Captain Benjamin Spillar's Company, commanded by Colonel William Brent, pay for May 1779 was 6 and 2/3rds dollars.
In July 1779, company pay roll, Thomas Fergurson, Private, 2nd Virginia State Regiment, Captain Benjamin Spiliar's Company, commanded by Colonel William Brent, pay for June 1779 was 6 and 2/3rds dollars.
In August 1779, company pay roll, Thomas Fargurson, Private, 2nd Virginia State Regiment, Captain Benjamin Spillar's Company, commanded by Colonel William Brent. Paid 6 and 2l3rds dollars for month of July. Paid subsistence of 4 and 2/3rds dollars for a total pay of 11 and 0/3rds dollars.
In September 1779, company pay roll, Thomas Fargurson, Private, 2nd Virginia State Regiment, Captain Benjamin Spillar's Company, commanded by Colonel Brent. Pay was 6 and 2/3rds dollars for month of August plus subsistence pay of 10 dollars for a total of 16 and 2/3rds dollars.
No company pay record for the month of September.
In November 1779, company pay roll, Thos. Forgurson, Private, 2nd Virginia State Regiment, Captain Benjamin Spillar's Company, commanded by Colonel Brent. Pay for month of October 6 and 2/3rds dollars plus subsistence pay of 10 dollars, for a total pay of 16 and 2l3rds dollars.
That was the last pay roll record found for Thomas Ferguson. In a letter dated November 26, 1915 to Mr. George B. Bush, 621 Citizens National Bank Building, Los Angeles, California: "The records of this office show that Thomas Ferguson served in the Revolutionary War as a Private in Captain Tubbs Company, 2nd Virginia State Regiment, under the command Colonel Brent. He is shown to have enlisted for three years and his name appears on rolls of the company from March 15, 1778 to November 1779, Neither the date of his enlistment nor the date or manor of the termination of his service has been found or record. The collection of Revolutionary War Records in this Department is far from complete and it is suggested as a possibility that additional information relative to the Thomas Ferguson in question can be obtained from the librarian in the Virginia State Library in Richmond or from the Commissions of Pensions, Washington, DC., the Adjutant General."
Listed in the `Index to Revolutionary War Service Records, Volume II: E-K, transcribed by Virgil D. White, published by `The National Historical Publishing Company in Waynesboro, Tennessee in 1995', the following Ferguson's are listed as serving in the 2nd Virginia State Regiment: John as a Private, Larkin age as a Private, Thomas as a Private.
Listed in the `Roster of Soldiers and Patriots of the American Revolution Buried In Indiana', compiled and edited by Mrs. Roscoe C. Opyrne, Chairman, Brookville, Indiana and Published by Indiana Daughters of the American Revolution, 1938', listed our Thomas as: Ferguson, Thomas born Nov. 25, 1756 Virginia. Service - Pri. in Capt. Benjamin Spiller's Co., Capt. Augustine Tobbs Co., 2nd Vir. Regt., commanded successively by Col. Gregory Smith and Col. Wm. Brent. Enlisted for 3 yrs. Proof - Portrait and Biographical Album of Sedgwick Co., Kansas, pp. 351-2. Died June 19, 1836. Buried Hobbieville, Greene Co. Has Stone. Married - Nancy Young, 1773-1850. Ch. William and Andrew (Twins), born 1794; Gus; Rolse; Jim; J. Wesley; Sam; Benjamin; Hyrum; Thomas; Rose. Collected by Mrs. Elvenah F. Miller, Vincennes, Indiana.
Here is my story on the lives of Thomas Ferguson and his wife Nancy Young Gillespie Bowen through documented files and family history.
In October 20, 1796 an indenture was made between Henry Bowen and David Ward, Executors of John Bowen who was murdered on July 12, 1789 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania on a cattle buying trip. The indenture stated that "John Bowen deceased and Nancy, wife of said John Bowen of the one part and Obadiah Gent of the other part...that for and in consideration of the sum of one hundred pounds to them in hand paid the receipt where of is hereby acknowledged the said Henry Bowen David Ward and Nancy Bowin hath granted bargained and sold and by these persons grant...confirm to the said Obediah Gent his heirs and assigns forever, a certain tract or parcel of land lying and being on the south side of the Maiden Spring part of Clinch River in the county of Russell and the State of Virginia containing two hundred and thirty-five acres by survey as per patent and bounded as followeth viz...Beginning at a post on the west side of a spur corner to a survey of John Donvlyr and with a line there of North. beginning East one hundred and four poles to a line all ...at the foot of the aforesaid mountain... leaving mountain and lien north fifty six degrees East two hundred and forty poles to a.. on a ledge East over hundred and thirteen poles crossing the head of the grassy spring to two maples South twelve degrees East one hundred and thirty poles to a large Black oak on the River hills south eighty two degrees west four hundred and thirty four poles to the beginning with all and every of its appureances to have and to hold said Obediah Gent his heirs and assigns forever and we the said Henry Bowen David Ward and Nancy Bowen for ourselves our heirs and assigns against all and every person or persons whatsoever shall and will warrant and forever defend the said tract of land with all and every of its appurtinances to the said Obediah Gent his heirs and assigns forever in witness where of we the said Henry Bowen David War and Nancy Bowen...to set our hands and affixed our seals this year and the day above written.
Signed by Henry Bowen, David Ward and Nancy Forgason.
The above is probably the land that is listed in the Virginia Archives on page 126 as: John Bowen..400 acres.. Commissioners Certificate..on the south side of the Maiden Spring fork, a south branch of Clinch River in the cove..Beginning at the foot of the Short Mountain, spur of Clinch Mountain... comer to William Bowens land-May S, 1783 - John Bowen, assignee of Rees Bowen, decd, assignee of John Deleany..400 ac..at the Maiden Springs to run to the mouth of Adams Creek, includes improvements, actual settlement made in 1769..August 22, 1781.
During the October court of 1796, the Indenture of Bargain and sale of land from Henry Bowen, David Ward, and Nancy Bowen, wife of John Bowen, deceased to Obediah Gent was entered in court and acknowledged by the said Henry Bowen, David Ward and Nancy Bowen, wife of John Bowen deceased being privately examined as the law demands and ordered to be recorded. This land sale to Obediah Gent shows that Nancy Bowen, wife of John Bowen deceased, signed her name on the bill of sale as Nancy Forgason, thus establishing the marriage of her to Thomas Ferguson prior to October 1796. It is assumed that her and Thomas married sometime in 1790. No record of marriage has been found by any Ferguson, Gillespie or Bowen family and presumed lost.
The following records on our Thomas Ferguson starts during the year 1792 in Russell County, Virginia. Where Thomas was between 1779 and 1792 is unknown. He may have been married, had children, been a hunter and trapper or worked for others.
In the 1792 Russell County Law Books on page 23, it is ordered that Burns and Thomas Ferguson do appraise the estate of Thomas Belcher, deceased and make return there of to next court. Also in this year, Thomas Ferguson was listed in the `Records of Personal Taxes and Personal Property Taxes, in the Upper District of Russell County being taxed on 10 slaves between the ages of 10 and 16.
In the 1793 Records of Personal & Property Taxes in Upper District of Russell County, Thomas is listed.
In the Russell County Virginia Law Book 2, page 23: "ordered that Henry Bowen, Robert Belcher, Robert Burns and Thomas Ferguson do appraise the estate of Thomas Belcher, deceased and make return thereof to the next court." Thomas is also listed on the Upper District of Russell County on the Personal and Property Tax records. On September 25th of the same year, Thomas Ferguson is mentioned: "ordered recommended as ensign in 1st Battalion of 72nd Regiment Militia."
In 1795, Upper District, Russell County Personal and Property Tax List, Thomas Ferguson is once again mentioned. There is also an Andrew Ferguson but no idea if related to Thomas. On April 28, 1795, in the Russell County Law Book 2, page 200, "Thomas Ferguson, produced commission's from Robert Brooke, Esq., appointing him (Thomas Ferguson) Ensign in the 1st Battalion of the 72nd Regiment of the Militia in Russell County. Unfortunately, all records in Russell County, Virginia, were lost.
In the Russell County, Virginia Deed Book 2, 1795-1798, page 215 is stated: Bowen Extor, Deed to Jent: 20 Oct 1796: Indenture between Henry Bowen and David War, Exrs of John Bowen, Decd and Nancy, wife of sd. John Bowen of the one part and
Obadiah Gent, of the other part ...land... on the south side of the paint lick Mountain on the Maiden Spring fork of Clinch River ...containing 235 acres by Survey as per Patent and Bounded :...corner to a Survey of John Donoleys...foot of the aforesaid
Mountain ...crossing the head of the grassy spring... "Also on page 216 it is stated:
"Sig: Henry Bowen, David Ward, Nancy Forgason, Wit: None. Acknowledged/Recorded: October Court 1796...Nancy Bowen, wife of John Bowen, Decd, being privily Examined. .."
On August 22, 1797, Russell County Law Book 2, page 395.."ordered that Thomas Ferguson be recommend to James Wood Esquire Governor of the Commonwealth and the Honorable Privy Council as a fit and proper person for Lieutenant, in the 1 st Battalion of the 72nd Regiment of the Militia in Russell County. There are earlier records of Ferguson men living in the Colony of Virginia. It is not known though if these men were related to our Thomas. During the year 1704 in Norfolk County, a Thomas Furgison was listed on the Rent Rolls. These men were also listed in various areas on Rent Rolls: William Forgeson in Parish of St. Peters and St. Paul; John Forgison in York County and Adam Forguson in Princess Anne County.
On September 26, 1797 in the Russell County Law Book 2: "on the motion of James Jones, Administration is granted him on the Estate of Isaac Moore deceased, whereupon he together with Thomas Ferguson, his security, entered into the acknowledged their bond in the penal sum of three hundred Dollars conditioned as the law direct whereof he took the oath of an administratrix.
On September 27, 1797 on motion of Ann Bundy it is ordered that Thomas Ferguson be appointed guardian for the heirs of David Musick, dec'd.
In the 1798 Russell County, Personal Tax List in the Upper District, the following Fergusons were listed: Andrew, Thomas and John. The following Gillespies were listed: James, Robert and Thomas.
In the 1798 Russell County Surveyors Book l, page 340: "William Smith, December 29, 1798, 90 acres part treasury warrant 2301 dated October 23, 1797 on the east side of the Short Mountain, corner to Henry Bowen and Thomas Ferguson and the falling rock corner to said Ferguson and John Donnell." Another entry shows that a "William Smith, December 29, 1798, 50 acres, part treasury warrant 2308, dated November 2 , 1797, on the northeast end of the Short Mountain, corner to Thomas Ferguson and Henry Bowen.
In the Surveyor Book 2, 1799 - 1808 by Rhoda Robertson, page 4 states: "William Smith -60 ac - part 2 Treasury Warrants; 50 ac by part of 2308 dated November 2, 1797 and 10 acres by part of Warren 2301 dated October 23, 1797 on the waters of the Maiden Spring Fork of Clinch River in the Cove lying on both sides of the dry branch corner to James Brown, near the head of a spring corner to John Donnel and Co corner to Thomas Gillespie, corner to Gillespie and John Bowen, dec'd - corner to said Bowen and Rees Bowen -surveyed February 20, 1800. (This Thomas Gillespie eventually filed suit against Thomas Ferguson and his wife Nancy for guardianship of her daughter Lavisa Bowen, daughter of John Bowen).
In the 1799 Personal Property Tax List, for the Upper District in Russell County, is our Thomas Ferguson along with Andrew Ferguson and John Ferguson and others. This John Ferguson is probably John Campbell Ferguson born January 17, 1775 in Halifax County, Virginia. This Andrew Ferguson may be the one who. was a witness to the will of William Brandon, dated January 26, 1778. The earliest record found on a John Ferguson in Russell County, was July 25, 1797. He was the grantee of a deed for 96 acres from Thos. and Susanna Johnson, grantors. I don't know if these two John Ferguson's are the same person, but there was also a John Ferguson and a Larkin Ferguson listed with the 2nd Virginia State Regiment but in a different company than our Thomas. All these Ferguson's may somehow be related, either brothers or cousins.
On August 26, 1799, in the Kentucky Land Grants, Vol. l, Part 1, Chapter IV, Grants South of Green River (1797-186b) The Counties of Kentucky, page 310, is a Thomas Ferguson listed as such: Grantee: Thos. Ferguson, Acres - 200, Book 2, page 110, Date of Survey as August 26, 1799, Barren County, Watercourse was Beaver Creek. Barren County was established in 1799 from parts of Warren and Green counties. This land grant may have been given for his time in the Revolutionary War.
There is a Thomas Ferguson and Nancy listed on the Tax List of Barren County, Kentucky in 1800. Again, not known for sure is this is our Thomas and Nancy. This shows that a Thomas and Nancy were being taxed on property they owned in Barren County but not necessarily living there.
In 1799 parts of Russell County, Virginia were formed into Tazewell County. The area of Clinch River was part of that formation which became part of Tazewell County. Between 1799 and 1800, Thomas Ferguson was taken to court by Thomas Gillespie to have the guardianship of Lavisa (Louisa) taken from Thomas and his wife Nancy and given to himself. This was listed in the Tazewell County Order Book No. l, page 7: "Ordered that Samuel Walker, John Trigg, Thomas Witten, and Audley Maxwell, or any two of them, do settle with Thomas Ferguson, the former guardian of Levisa Bowen, infant of John Bowen, dec'd, and delivered the estate into the hands of Thomas Gillespie the present guardian of said infant, and divide same. Levisa was soon married off to Thomas Gillespie's son, Reese Gillespie. On October 15, 1802, a deed from Thomas Ferguson and his wife Nancy, was given to Reese Gillespie. This deed was the land that was given to Levisa after her father's death in 1789 which Thomas was guardian of.
On January 7, 1801 in Russell County, Thomas Ferguson was recommended to the Governor of Virginia by the Tazewell County Court to assume the position of Captain of the 2nd Battalion of the 112th Regiment . Thomas declines the position on March 12, 1802 after the men of the battalion wrote a letter complaining about his forceful and somewhat colorful character. This effort was led by Henry Bowen, brother to John Bowen, for reasons unknown. The letter was written as such: "To His Excellency James Monroe Governor of Virginia and The Honourable Privy Council:- The Humble Remonstrance of A Company of Militia in the 112th Regiment, in the County of Tazewll most respectfully sheweth - That at a court held for the County of Tazewell in February Last, Officers to command the Different companies, constituting said Regiment were recommended by the Court, in execution of which the strictest attention was paid the Rank and date of former Commitions, in consequence of which mode of appointment, Thomas Ferguson was recommended as a proper person to command the company in the bounds of which your remonstrants are residents, and of Course must (if he is commissioned) be under his command as militia. We confess it is with reluctance that we come forward at this time to solicit the Interposion of the Executive on Our behalf, but when we reflect on the Injustice which we conceive would be Done to the Publick, as well as the Violence offered to Our own feellings as men, by being put under the command of a person whose moral Character we conceive to be very Deficient, he is also A Drunkard, being commonly intoxicated to such a Degree when in Company as renders him verry oftern unfit to transact his own business to advantage, much less to command a Company. Besides he is almost perpetually Engaged in illnotured & unnecessery Quarrels and Disputes with his neghbours; in short, the whole tener of his conduct boath before and since he has been Recommended has been such as we conceive to be very Exceptionable, and by no means Becomming the Character of an Officer. These charges and others of the blackest Nature Can be substantiated by every person who is well acquainted with the Conduct of Mr. Ferguson - We therefore humbly hope, that your Exceliancy and the Honorable Board over whom you Preside, upon Due consideration of our just complaint, will be pleased to Commission Rees Bowen Capt. Hugh Wilson Lieut, & Brittain Smith Ensign, of said company of Militia, this appointment would we humbly conceive answer every purpose, boath of a Public & Private nature much better than the former; & ever meet with the most hearty & thankful Approbation of your Huml. Remonstrants - (The number of men in the Company is betwixt 40 & 50).Henry Bowen, John Goodwin, Mark Gent, Wm. Gent, Thos. Moore, Charles Young, John King, Joseph Ward, Benjamin Morrason, Joshua Morason, James Bristow, John Smith, Saml. Smith, John Belcher, Joseph Cooksey, Lamaster Cooksey, Israel Young, Nathaniel Young, Benja. Poarter, Enock Boland, Jarret Boland, Robt. Barnes, Wm. Guarison, Wm. Asbury Sr., Presley Lerkins, George Asbury, Allen Marlow, Wm. Asbury Jr., Wm. Boland, Wm. Irwin, James Heary, David Young, John Young, Richard Steel, Sharach White, John Green, Andrew Todd, Liles Dolsbury, Nat. Young, Moses Higginbotham, Henry Asbury, Isaac Bristow and Obadiah Gent.
In the 1802 Russell County Personal Property Tax List, Thomas Ferguson is not listed. Listed was John Ferguson and Andrew Ferguson.
In the Tazewell County Order Book No. 1, pg. 24, is written: "On motion of Robert Barns and William George, securities of Thomas Ferguson, guardian of Levicy Bowen, an infant of John Bowen, Dec'd., who conceive themselves in danger from their surety-ship it is ordered that a summons do issue for said Ferguson to appear to find counter security. On March 5, 1801, on page 30 is written: "A summons having been issued for Thomas Ferguson, guardian of Levicy Bowen, infant of John Bowen, dec'd., to appear to find counter security for her guardianship. He refuses and it is ordered that said Ferguson do give up the said estate to Thomas Gillespie who is appointed guardian in his room, whereupon he together with Henry Bowen and John Tollet entered bond. On June l lth, page 34 it shows: "Ordered that Samuel Walker and John Trigg be Commissioners and that they settle with Thomas Ferguson, formerly guardian of Levicy Bowen, infant of John Bowen, dec'd., and that they deliver up the personal estate of the said infant to Thomas Gillespie, the present guardian, and that they assign one half of the lands of said John Bowen, dec'd., was possessed of to the said Thomas Gillespy and that they settle the rent, etc., with said Ferguson and report to court.
In the Tazewell County Order Book No. 1, page 52 dated January 15, 1802 it reads: "Samuel Walker and John Trigg having been appointed by a former court to settle with Thomas Ferguson, the former guardian of Levisa Bowen, infant of John Bowen, dec'd. Ordered that they attend at the house of said Thomas on Friday Next. On March 11, 1802 page 53 it reads: "Thomas Ferguson vs. Obadiah Gent. Debt. Office judgement set aside payments (filed) and issued. On page 54 it reads: "A settlement with Thomas Ferguson former guardian of Levisey Bowen, infant of John Bowen, dec'd., and Thomas Gillespy, the present guardian was returned to the court and recorded. (note here that Levisa is 16-17 years of age and still under 21 years thus referred to as an 'infant.'... dfs). On March 12th, page 56 it reads: "Ordered that Reese Bowen be recommended to the Governor as a fit and capable person to act as captain in the 2nd Batallion of the 112th Regt. in the room of Thomas Ferguson who was heretofore recommended and has resigned his claim thereto."
In the Tazewell County Order Book No. 1, dated March 13, 1802, on page 57 it reads: "Thomas Ferguson vs. Obadiah Gent, Dismissed at defendants costs." Also on page 57 it reads: "On the motion of Thomas Ferguson, former guardian of Levisa Bower, by
Jas. Thompson, his attorney, to set aside the settlement made with the said Ferguson and Thomas Gillespy, present guardian of the said infant by the said commissioners hereto appointed for that purpose. It is order that the motion be overruled." Another entry on page 57 reads: "James Stokes vs. John Powers, tresspass. Jury: Daniel Waggoner, Michael Stump, George Stump, Thomas Ferguson, Obadiah Gent, Samuel Leard, William Maxwell, Abraham Davis, John Wynn, Henry Stump, Henry Marrs, and John Cecil. The plaintiff desired to suffer a non suit. The court orders that the defendant recover against the plaintiff his costs." On page 58 it reads: "John J. Trigg, thomas Witten and Audley Maxwell being appointed by the last court on the Thomas Ferguson - Thomas Gillespie (guardians of Levicy Bowen) report that it appears that 28 pounds and 10 shillings are due Mr. Gillespie.
In the Tazewell County Order Book No. 1, dated April 15, 1802, page 79 it reads: "Levisa Bowen by Thomas Gillespy vs. Thomas Ferguson. Dismissed. Agreed."
In the Tazewell County Order Book No. 1, dated October 15, 1802, page 81 it reads: "Joshua Morrison vs. Thomas Ferguson." On page 82 it reads: "Deed from Thomas Ferguson and Nancy, his wife, to Reese Gillespie." Another entry on page 82 reads:
"Joshua Morrison made oath that Richard Pemberton was a material witness in case of he vs. Thomas Ferguson. Deposition to be taken."
In the 1802 Tazewell County, Virginia Personal Property Tax List there is a Thomas Ferguson with two white males over the age of 16 and 3 blacks over the age of 16. A William Ferguson has two white males over the age of 16 and 2 black males over the age of 16. A John Ferguson has 2 white males over the age of 16 and 2 black males over the age of 16 and a Samuel Ferguson with 2 white males over the age of 16 and 8 black males over the age of 16. Thomas Gallaspy had 3 white males over the age of 16, 3 blacks over the age of 16 and being taxed on mares, horses, colts and mules. Henry Bowin has one male over the age of 16, 2 blacks between 12 and 16, 2 blacks over 16 and has a combination of 9 horses, mares, colts and mules. Reese Bowin has one male over 16, i black between 12 and 16, 2 blacks over 16 and being taxed on a combination of 4 horses, mules, mares and colts.
Land Record dated August 9, 1803 shows the following: The Commonwealth of Virginia to Thomas Fuggle and good Justices of Knox County Kentucky, greetings, whereas Thomas Ferguson and Nancy his wife by their certain Indenture of bargain and sale, being dated the 9th day of August 1803 have sold and conveyed unto John Ward 200 acres of land with its appurtenances lying and being in the County of Tazewell and whereas they said Nancy cannot conveniently travel to the said County Court of Tazewell to make her acknowledgement of the said conveyance therefore we (the rest is missing)" This is where the Tazewell County Court ordered their representatives to go to Knox County Kentucky and privately examine Nancy to see if she had willingly agreed to sell land. There was a notation "court the 28th day of November 1806." The following is in regards to Nancy's examination: "State of Kentucky Knox County, Eal..Agreeable to an order to us Thomas Fuggle and Marshall Johnston Justices of the peace in and for the County aforesaid from the Court of Tazewell County, In the State of Virginia from i the hand of the clerk, there to _ we went to the house of the said Thomas Ferguson and then privately examined Nancy Ferguson wife of the said Thomas Ferguson separately and apart from her said husband, touching her right of dower to the within mentioned tract of land sold by her said husband to John Ward, said that she did acknowledged the - same truly willingly and for her own accord and (missing part on microfilm copy) do give unto - or - two (damaged copy) receive the acknowledgement which the said Nancy, she be willing to make before you the conveyance aforesaid contained in the said Indenture, which is hereunto annexed, and we do therefore require you that you do go personally to the said Examine her privily, and apart from, the said Thomas Ferguson, her husband whether she doth the land freely and voluntarily without his persuasions or threats, and whether she do willingly the same shall be Recorded in the County Court of Tazewell aforesaid, and _ you _ record her acknowledgement and _ hers as aforesaid you shall _ and openly certify us thereof in the said Court under your seal _than the said Indenture and this clerk of our said this fear threat or _ over persuasion of her said husband recorded in Tazewell County Court and by us certified. Given under our hands and seals this 9th day of October 1809. Signed by Thomas Fuggle and Marshall Johnston. Additional information: At the Court held for the County of Tazewell the 25th day of October 1809, this commission for the examination of Nancy Ward (this was suppose to be Nancy Ferguson) was returned to court which with the certificate annexed to the deed hereunto annexed be as ordered to be recorded. Signed by Jesse J. Craskill, Clerk
(this indicated that after Nancy's examination it was noted that she willing sold her land in Tazewell County, Virginia).
In the Tazewell County Order Book No. 1, dated August 12, 1803; page 107 it reads: "Deed from Thomas Ferguson and Nancy, his wife, to John Ward." On page 108 it reads: "John Compton Sr., vs. Thomas Ferguson, Debt." On page 109 it reads: "John Compton, Sr., vs. Thomas Ferguson. Dismissed by plaintiffs order at plaintiff's costs." On page 349 it reads: "Deed from Thomas Ferguson & Nancy, his wife, to John Ward being heretofore recorded as to the said Thomas Ferguson and a Commission issued to two of the justices of Knox County, Kentucky to take a private examination of Nancy, which being done and returned is recorded." (note here by dfs...this private examination was when the appointed court representatives would take the wife to a different part of the house, away from her husband, and question her as to whether or not she willingly agreed to sell her part of their property).
In the Abstracts of Tazewell County Will Book #1 - 1800 to 1832, dated March 12, 1802, page 12 it reads: "Thomas Gillespie: Settlement of guardian accounts. Thomas is present guardian of Levice Bowen. Thomas Ferguson was former guardian." On page 25 it reads: "Sale bill. Purchasers: Samuel Smith, Audly Maxwell, William Smith, Brittan Smith, John Ward, Grace Barnes, Robert Smith, Jr., Thomas Brooks, Charles Young, John Smith, William Lockhart Jr., William George, Thomas Forguson, John Goodwin, David Hanson, Reese Bowen, Hugh Wilson, James Robison, and Dudley Young.
Listed in the Tazewell Deeds Mentioning Places of Residence Other Than Tazewell was: "Knox County, Kentucky.. Ferguson, Thomas & Nancy (Nancy is widow of John Bowen, dec'd), 1803, TZ Dd 1-141."
In the Chronicles of the Scotch-Irish Settlement in Virginia Extracted from the original court records of August County 1745-1800, Circuit Court Records, Section "I" Judgements, page 149 has the following: "Andrew Lamy vs. Ward -- O. S. 179; N. S. 63-Bill 31 st July, 1806, Orator previous to 1 st January, 1778, made a settlement on a tract in then Fincastle County, now Tazewell, and in 1780 obtained a certificate from the Commissioner. In 1788 John Bowen made an entry in Russell County adjoining orator. During summer, 1789, Bowen died testate, devising the land to his widow and only daughter an infant. The widow Nancy married Thomas Ferguson and they sold to John Ward, who sold to Arthur Blankenship. The daughter (Louisa) of Bowen, married Reese Gillespie. Blankenship and Gillespie have sold to Isaac King. Answer of John Ward says John Bowen did have a right to 200 acres adjoining David Ward (John's father), Martha King and orator. (note here on Louisa being an `infant'. In those days an infant child was any child under the age of 21).
In the 1803 census for Knox County, Kentucky, Thomas Ferguson and his wife Nancy, she being the widow of John Bowen, are listed.
Listed in the 1803 Kentucky Land Grants, Volume 1, Chapter IV, South of Green River, 1797-1866, The Counties of Kentucky, page 310 reads the following: Grantee: Thos. Ferguson, 100 acres, book 16, page 432, date of survey 12 November 1807, Knox County, Watercourse - Steel Fork Watts Cr., South of Green River Series which was established by a 1795 Act of the General Assembly which opened the former Military District to settlers meeting certain requirements. The purchaser of the Warrant/Certificate had to be 21 years of age or older and a resident on the property in question for one year. An improvement, such as planting a crop or building a cabin was also required. There are over 16,600 patents filed in this series, many of which are located out of the South of Green River area and as far north as Pendleton County. The South of Green River patents are often known as the `Headrights Claims'. This land which was deeded to Thomas Ferguson originally belonged to John Waters. `For a valuable consideration to me in hand haid the receipt whereof I do hereby acknowledge, I do assign and make over to Thomas Ferguson and his heirs for ever all my right, title, and interest to and in a certain tract of land containing 200 acres, being a head-right granted by the Commission South of Green River, by Certificate No. 1692, entered of September 1798. Surveyed 26th August 1799. Registered the 17th Dec. 1799. Lying and being in the County of Barren, in the Barrens North side of Beaver Creek, and bounded as follows to wit, beginning at a black oak in Coonrad Walters line of his 1000 survey, thence with the same w. 40 and 86 so. to two ? oaks, corcer to said Walters line thence with another of his lines, s. 45 so. to a black oak on the side of a land, thence N. 180 so to a stake, thence, N. to W go so. to a stake, thence s. 83 1/2 W. 127 so to a stake one of the said Walters corners, thence with another of the lines, s. ?? to a frost oak and two jucouis thence s. ??.18 so. to the beginning. And I do hereby authorize and request the register of the land office to issue the grant for the said land in his ?? said Thomas Ferguson's name, in witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed my seal this 3rd day of August 1803. Signed by John Walters, test Conrad Walters, Jr. and John Murphy. Survey 2395, Assignment South of Green River #2395. Grant South of Green River, #2395, Book 2, page 110: Thos. Ferguson 200 acres Barren County: James Garrard Esquire governor of the Commonwealth of Kentucky to all to whom those presents shall come greetings. Know ye that virtue and in consideration of a certificate No. 1692 granted by the state of Kentucky for the relief of settlers on the south side of green river. Agreeable to an act of assembly passed in the year 1798, there is granted by the said Commonwealth unto Thomas Ferguson of John Walters a certain tract or parcel of land pertaining two hundred acres surveys the 26th day of Augt. 1799 laying and being in the County of Barren on the waters of Beaver Creek, beginning at a black oat on Conrad Walters line of his 1000 survey thence with the same S. 8.86 poles to two post oakes comes to said Walters thence with another of his lines S. 45 poles to a red oak two hickories thence East 140 poles to a black oak on the side of a pond, thence N. 180 poles to a stake thence N. 70 ? 90 poles to a stake thence S 83 1/2 W. 127 poles one of the said Waters corners thence with another of his lines south 70 poles to a post oakes, two hickories thence ? 40 ? 18 poles to the beginning with it appurtenances to have and to hold the said tract or parcel of land with its appurtenances to the said Thomas Ferguson and his heirs forever. In ? whereof the said James Gassard Esq. governor of the Commonwealth of Kentucky hath hereunto set his hand & caused the seal of the said Commonwealth to be afficed at Frankford on the twelfth day of August in the year of our Lord One thousand eight hundred three of the Commonwealth the twelfths. By the govenor...James Garrard.
July 31, 1806: Chronicles of the Scotch-Irish Settlement in Virginia Extracted from the Original Court Records of Augusta County, 1745-1800, Circuit Court Records, Section I, Judgements, page 149: Andrew Lamy vs. Ward -O. S. 179; N. S. 63 - Bill 31 st July, 1806. Orator previous to 1 January 1778, made a settlement on a tract in then Fincastle County, now Tazewell, and in 1780 obtained a certificate from the Commissioner. In 1788, John Bowen made an entry in Russell County adjoining orator. During summer 1789, Bowen died testate, devising the land to his widow and only daughter an infant (added note by dfs..infant refers to any child under the age of 21 years). The widow Nancy married Thomas Ferguson and they sold to John Ward, who sold to Arthur Blankenship. The daughter, Louisa, of Bowen, married Reese Gillespie. Blankenship and Gillespie have sold to Isaac King. Answer of John Ward says John Bowen did have a right to 200 acres adjoining David Ward, John's father. Martha King orator.
February l, 1804, Thomas Ferguson vs. Caveat Laughlin, recorded in Book 1, page 143, Survey #12273. To the Register of the Land office in the Commonwealth of Kentucky. Let no grants issue to James Laughlin or his assigns for two hundred acres of land lying on the Steeles Fork of Walters Creek in Knox County In the Commonwealth court of the said County under the Law for selling unproveing of the vacant lands in the Commonwealth In addition to the said James Laughlin _ of two hundred acres obtained under the law for granting reliegh to letter on the south side of Greene river. 1 st because Thomas Ferguson claims the same land as an actual letter and improve under the law for letting and Improveing the vacant lands in this Commonwealth and has obtained from the County Court of the said county of Knox a certificate for the same. 2nd Because the said James Laughlin did not comply with the requisition of the law for granting _ to letters on the south side of Green River previous to his obtaining from the Courts of Commisioners their certificate the two hundred acres of land which is the foundation of the claim _ Cavates 3rd Because the said _ James Laughlin nor his representatives did not reside on the land granted him by the court of Commissioners one year nor succeeding of the date of the certificate to grantee 4th Because the land aditional claim is wholly with out foundation in law void. (Signed by) Thomas Furguson
State of Kentucky Franklin County et., Thomas Ferguson appeared before me a justice for the peace, county court in and for the county aforesaid and made oath that the foregoing Caveat is Really and bonifide made with an intention of procurring the land therein mentioned and for which the Caveat is entered for himself. Given under my hand this 1 st day of February 1804.
On February 24, 1804; Thos. Fergerson receives a deed gift from Charles Booth. On April 21 st, Thos. Fergerson is listed on the Tax List of Knox County, Kentucky. July 16, 1805 Thomas Forguson is listed on the Tax List of Knox County, Kentucky. The Knox County Tax List for 1806 and 1807 were lost.
On September 26, 1807, Thomas Ferguson witnessed a land deed in which James Love sold to James Blake and Luke Watkins one tract of land each.
On November 12, 1807, The Kentucky Land Grants, Vol. l, Part 1, Chapter IV Grants South of Green River, The Counties of Kentucky, pg. 310: Grantee: Thos. Ferguson, 100 acres, Book 16, page 432, Date of Survey November 12, 1807, Knox County, Watercourse Steel Forke, Watts Creek. Under the South of Green River Series, the person who qualified for the Warrant had to be 18 years of age or older and a resident on the land one year prior to applying for the Warrant. The applicant had to appear before the court commissioners and supply proof he or she met age and residency requirements.
December 7, 1807, Record for Thomas Furgeson: In Knox County, Kentucky, Alexander Stewart was appointed by the Knox County Court to be sheriff for two years. He took the oath and his bondsmen were Thomas Furgeson, Isaac Stewart (Alexander's son), William Baker and Jarvis Mahan. Alexander Stewart served in the 2nd Virginia State Regiment under Gregory Smith and William Brent as did our Thomas Ferguson and he was at Valley Forge on the same day as Thomas. The following was taken from http://www.Kentuckystewarts.com "From history we know that all immigrants to Kentucky came over two routes. That from Pennsylvania and other points north and east came into Kentucky down the Ohio River. The second way, immigrated from Virginia and the Carolinas came over the Wilderness Road through the Cumberland Gap." WE know that Thomas Ferguson came from Virginia to Kentucky through the Wilderness Road and the Cumberland Gap. The Wilderness Road was an old buffalo trail that was used by the American Indians as one of their many Warrior Paths. The Cumberland River crossing was one of the points was noted in many diaries and journals of early explorers and immigrants. Records stored in the Knox County Courthouse shows that the Knox County part of the old Wilderness Road began at the Cumberland Gap which passed through Flat Lick, Barbourville and on to the Rockcastle River.
To get to Kentucky from the settlements of Virginia, the pioneers would go southward, following the trend of the mountains and the valleys, till East Tennessee and the valley of the Holston were reached. Then a difficult journey across the Cumberland Gap and the rugged hills beyond it brought the pioneers to the waters of the Kentucky and the Salt River. The journey was some six hundred miles through a rugged, hostile and dangerous region. From the Holston River to the Kentucky wilderness, hostile Indians were numerous. There were no roads and the direction was indicated by the occasional markings made upon the trees; markings which were made by Daniel Boone in 1775.
In the publication "The Kentucky Land Grants, Volume 1, Part 1, Chapter IV Grants South of Green River 1797-1866, The Counties of Kentucky", page 310 shows that Thos Ferguson grantee receives 100 acres on the Steel Fork WaterCourse. Survey date was November 12, 1807 in Knox County. The same publication shows that Thos. Ferguson received 200 acres in Barren County on the Beaver Creek watercourse. It is not know for sure if this Thomas Ferguson in Barren County is our Thomas.
On May 3, 1808 Thomas Forguson is listed on the Knox County Tax List. This tax list also shows an Andrew Forguson. Was this the same Andrew Forguson who was living in Russell County and then Tazewell County along with Thomas, and if so, how were they related, if at all.
On May 8, 1809, Thos. Furguson is listed on the Knox County Tax List.
The 1810 census for Knox County, Kentucky shows Thos. Fwguson's household as: 4 males under 10 being Ralston, Hiram, Samuel and Thomas, 2 males 10-16 being James and William, 2 males 16-25 being Benjamin and Andrew, l male 26-44 being Thomas, 1 female under 10 being Hannah, 1 female 10-16 being Mary, 1 female 26-44 being Nancy and 1 female over 45 years. This female is believed to be Thomas' mother. In the year 1815, Survey number 12273 South of Green River Judged in favor of Thomas Ferguson so grant was issued. Thomas Ferguson, 100 acres of Knox County N12273 Grant South of Green River, Book 16, pg. 432: Isaac Shelby Esq. Governor of the Commonwealth of Kentucky to all to whom are present.. and greeting Know ye that by Virtue and in consideration of a certificate Number 179 (State Price..without interest) granted by the County Clerk of Knox in March 1803 agreeably to an act of and unproving the vacant lands of this Commonwealth here is granted by the said Common Wealth unto Thomas Ferguson a certain tract or parcel of land containing one hundred acres, by Survey bearing...the twelfth day of November one thousand eight hundred and seven lying and being in the County of Knox on Steels Fork of Watt Creek and bounded by the followeth...beginning at two black oaks and two populars on the point of the Ridge running thence North fifty East sixty poles croping said fork to a black oak and white oak thence South forty East sixty poles to a double black oak thence South sixty two West and hundred poles croping a branch to a black walnut ash and beech then South twenty two West and hundred poles to maple and white oak James Raughtens corner thence with the ... north eighty five West fifty six poles to a Hickory thence leaving said line North thirty and West and hundred and sixty five poles croping the fork of afores and to the Beginning with its appurtenances to have and to hold the said tract or parcel of land with its appurtenances to the said Thomas Ferguson and his heirs forever. In witness whereof the said Isaac Shelby, Esq. Governor of the Commonwealth of Kentucky hath hereunto set his hand and the seal the fifth day of ..in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and fifteen and the Commonwealth the twenty fourth. By the Governor Isaac Shelby, M. D. Hardin, Secretary."
The following is a description of surveying measurements: 1 pole or rod equals 16.5 feet or 25 links; 1 link equals 0.66 feet or 7.92 inches; 1 chain equals 100 links, 4 rods or 66 feet; 80 chains equals 1 mile, 320 rods, 1760 yards or 5280 feet; 1 acre equals 10 square chains, 160 square rods, 4840 square yards or 43, 560 square feet; l square mile equals 1 section of land or 640 acres, and a township equals a 36 mile square section. A Pole is a unit of measure in a survey which equals 16 1/2 feet. Presents normally found used as `by these presents' meaning by the paper document itself. Patent is a grant or privilege, property or authority made by a government or sovereign of a country to one or more individuals. The patentee is the person receiving the patent. Appurtenance - which is spelled many ways - means that the right to any and all buildings, right of ways or any other item attached to or situated on the thing being sold passes to the purchaser. Indenture normally used to refer to the document itself. "This indenture entered into..." Also used in a contract binding one person to work for another for a given period of time. Sometimes used to describe a bond.
In "A History of Knox County, Kentucky" by K. S. Sol Warren, Published by Daniel Boone Festival, Inc., PO Box 1000, Barbourville, Kentucky, printed by Harol Press, 16721 Hamilton Avenue, Detroit, Michigan 48203, pages 77-80, it's printed the following on Thomas and his sons Andrew and William. The original indictment was written on a plain sheet of paper, size 12 X 15 inches and thus reads: Court Proceedings - Court Actions And The British Pound - One of the most typical cases of early Knox County was that of `The Commonwealth of Kentucky versus Andrew Furgerson, Thomas Furgerson, and William Furgerson. - The Commonwealth of Kentucky, Knox Circuit and County to wit: The Grand Jury of the Commonwealth of Kentucky, upon their oath, present that Andrew Furgerson of Knox County and Thomas Furgerson of said County, and William Furgerson of said County, on the Twenty-first day of June in the year of our Lord Eighteen-hundred and Seventeen, with force of arms in the County aforesaid in and upon oen Leighton Ewell, then and there being, unlawfully and feloniously, did make an assult and that he, Andrew Furgerson, bit the fore-finger of the right hand of him and said Leighton Ewell, and the little finer of the left hand of the said Leighton Ewell, did, then and there, unlawfully and feloniously, and by fighting, bite off. And that they, the said Thomas Furgerson and William Furgerson, then and there, feloniously and willingly, aiding and abetting, and consenting the said Andrew Furgerson the felony and biting aforesaid in the manner and form aforesaid to do and commit, and so the Jury aforesaid, upon their oath, do say that the aforesaid Andrew Furgerson, Thomas Furgerson, and William Furgerson, the aforesaid finers of the aforesaid Leighton Ewell, unlawfully and feloniously, did bite off contrary to the form of the statue in such cases and against the peace and dignity of the Commonwealth aforesaid. The Grand Jury finds a true bill.
David Snuffer, Foreman (signed) John Green, Attorney for the Commonwealth."
(note here that it is unknown if this Thomas was Andrew and William's father or brother) "With this indictment the long process of bringing the defendants to trial began. First, the clerk of the Circuit Court issued a writ for the arrest and safe-keeping of the defendants. The case was set for the next Circuit Court term, which was in October of 1817. The writ from the clerk read as follows: The Commonwealth of Kentucky, to the Sheriff of Knox County, Greetings: You are hereby commanded to take Andrew Furgerson and William Furgerson if they be found within your bailiwick and them safely keep so that you have their bodies before the Judge of the Knox Circuit Court at the Court House thereof on the first day our next October term, to answer the Commonwealth of Kentucky to an indictment found against them and Thomas Furgerson at our last July term and have then and there this writ. Witness: Richard Ballinger, Clerk of our said Court, at the Court House this 2nd day of August, 1817, and in the 26th year of the Commonwealth. (signed) Richard Ballinger, CKCC. A note on the back of this writ allowed the sheriff to admit the defendants to bail in the sum of three hundred dollars each. It read thus: Note, it is ordered by the Court that the Sheriff may admit the defendants to bail on their entering into bond. Therefore to be bonded in the sum of three hundred dollars each and one of more sufficient sureties in the sum of three hundred dollars in each case. (signed) Richard Ballinger, CKCC, Clerk, Knox Circuit Court.
The Sheriff, who appears to have been C. A. Ross, returned the writ as executed. The clerk issued another command to the sheriff. This time he was to summon "twelve good and lawful men" to serve as jurors to try the case at the next October term. The charge to the sheriff read thus: "The commonwealth of Kentucky, to the sheriff of Knox County, Greetings: We command you to summon twelve good and lawful men to your bailiwick to meet at the Court House in Barbourville on the first day of our next October term, who are of no wise of kin of Thomas Furgeson, Andrew Furgerson, and William Furgeson, or Leighton Ewell, and on their oath to say whether the said Thomas, William, and Andrew Furgerson be guilty of the felony wherewith they stand indicted and have then and there this writ. Witness, Richard Ballinger, Clerk for our said Court at office this 2nd day of August, 1817 and 25th year of the Commonwealth. (signed) Richard Ballinger, CKCC." The clerk then issued summons for a string of witnesses to testify in behalf of the Commonwealth. This order directed to the sheriff stated as follows: " The Commonwealth of Kentucky, to the sheriff of Knox County, Greetings: You are commanded to summons James Barton, William Devere, Elijah Farris, Joseph McFarlain, Leighton Ewell, and William Hall to appear before the Judge of the Knox Circuit Court, at the Court House in Barbourville, on the 1 st day of our October term, to testify and the truth to say in behalf of the Commonwealth of Kentucky in a certain matter of controversy in our said court, pending and undetermined between the said Commonwealth, Plaintiff, and Thomas, Andrew, and William Furgerson, Defendants. And this they shall in no wise omit under the penalty of one hundred pounds. Witness, Richard Ballinger, Clerk of the said Court at the Court House aforesaid, this 2nd day of August, 181? and of the Commonwealth the 26th years. Richard Ballinger, CKCC"
This case came up for trial at the regular October term of Court, but for some reason the case was earned over to the next April term in 1818. New Subpoenas were issued for the same witnesses to reappear at the next April term. In addition, the next March the clerk issued a summons for seven witnesses to testify in behalf of the defendants, Thomas, William, and Andrew Furgerson. The witnesses were George Sutherland, William Hall, John Hannock, Isaac Dawn, Erwin Dervese, Jacob Moore, Jape Moore and John Lawrence (son of Charles). This summons was executed by J. Laughlin, Deputy Sheriff for William Craig, Sheriff of Knox County. At the next April 1818 term it appears that because of some technicality, the case was carried over to the July term, and the whole ensuring process began all over again. All the witnesses were re-summoned to appear at the next first day of the July court to testify in behalf of the Commonwealth and the defendants respectively. If a witness failed to appear, he was required to pay a penalty of one hundred pounds. At the next term of court (July 1818) the case at last came to trial before the Circuit Court. The jury which the sheriff had so carefully summoned for jury service listened with close attention to the parade of witnesses for both the Commonwealth and the defendants. The attorney for the Commonwealth had not, apparently, made a case, for on the back of this old, worn, and broken indictment is written the judgement of the jury: "We the jury find for the defendants." It is signed by William Anderson." All material concerning the above mentioned case comes from discarded records and files retrieved from the trash heap by the author (K. S. So1 Warren) when the new Knox County Court House was constructed.
From "The Hoosier Journal of Ancestry", VI-3, pg. 35: Greene County Probate:88- October Term 1827 - Judges Robert and Levi Fellows, John Storm Jun. & Jane Duggar, administrators of Mark Dugger, deceased. Inventory appraised by Robert Beaty and Wm. Carter 2 August 1827. Mentions notes on Thomas and James Ferguson dated 1823, Henry Skidrnore dated 1826, Margaret Kelly dated 1815, Book Account for the season of a stud horse for the year 1826 - Mares to John Stone, Wm. Hutson, Elijah Shepard, Benjamin Fuller, Samuel Ferguson, James Ferguson. Note of Henry Fulenwider and C. Boon dated 1820 - Account against Joseph Mise. Inventory by John Storm Sr. and Wm. Carter 4 Oct. 1827. (This is mentioned because Samuel, Thomas, James Ferguson were the sons of Thomas Ferguson and Nancy, his wife).
In Greene County, Indiana, Thomas and his sons all owned land next to each other. On June 13, 1836, in Jackson Township, Greene County, Indiana, Abstract of R. E. Records, 1816-1890, Thomas Ferguson, Senr. is listed as a Grantee and the Grantor is listed as United States. The land is in section 2, township 6 North, Range 3 West, and is listed on page 363. Thomas died six days later.
In the 1830 census Thomas Furguson is between 60 - 70 years of age and Nancy is between 50-60 years of age. There is also two more males between the ages of 5 and 10 and 15 and 20 and another female between the ages of 15 and 20. These are probably
one of their children with a spouse and young son. This would show Thomas' birth between the years 1760 and 1770.
Thomas Ferguson and Nancy had six children born to them: Benjamin, William, Andrew, Mary, James, and Hannah before 1802 in Virginia. The family then moved to Knox County, Kentucky. There in the 1810 census his mother is found to be living with him and his family. There eight more children were born: Hiram, Samuel, Thomas, Ralston, Nancy, John, Augustine and Rose.
Out of their fourteen children only Rose's life is unknown. The rest married, raised families, and moved on. The children went on to Kentucky with their parents, moved to Indiana with them, except Benjamin who stayed in Kentucky with his family, and then the descendents of Thomas and Nancy moved on the Missouri, Arkansas, Indian Territory which became Oklahoma, Texas and many other states. Thomas and Nancy's children raised families and lived to see their grandchildren and great grandchildren with the exception of William Ferguson who died in Greene County, Indiana around 1822.
Thomas and Nancy were buried in Storm Cemetery in Hobbieville, Greene County, Indiana. To get to the cemetery: at the junction of State Highway 54 and 45, take State 54 east for 1.2 miles to Hobbieville exit, turn left or north on County Road CR 150 S and go for a short distance to Hobbieville, then go on CR 1260 E for a short distance, then 190 S for a short distance, and turn onto CR 1320 and go for about 6/10th mile and turn left on Wayne Vaught Farm, sign at entrance, go up to the graveled driveway for about 2/lOth mile to owners house. The cemetery is at the back of the house. Park vehicle in front of the house and walk across yard to cemetery. Before going please contact Wayne Vaught at 812.825.6276 for permission to access the cemetery. Thomas was born 25 November 1766 and died 19 June 1836 in the cabin he built and so loved. Nancy was born June 1773 and died 1 January 1850 and is near her husband.
Other files found on Thomas and Nancy: From the Virginia State Library Archives shows that on October 20, 1789, last will probated in Court in Russell County Daughter Levisa (John Bowen and Nancy's daughter) married to Reese Gillespie. In the Annals of Tazewell County, Virginia on page 384 it states: "In 1801, Thomas Gillespie had been appointed guardian of Levisa, daughter of John Bowen, deceased. This John Bowen was the eldest son of Lt. Rees Bowen and himself a survivor of the Battle of King's Mountain, from which he brought his slain father's bloody shoes to his mother. In 1784, John Bowen married Nancy Gillespie; in 1788, he bought a home in Russell County; in 1789, he went to Philadelphia to sell cattle and died suddenly in a hotel there. He left a will devising his property to his wife, Nancy, and his daughter Levisa. The widow, Nancy, married Thomas Ferguson and went to Knox County, Tenn (actually Kentucky); the daughter, in 1802 married Rees B. Gillespie."
Through 1797 and 1798 there was a petition to form Tazewell County from Russell County. The only Ferguson's to sign this petition was Andrew Forguson, John Forgison, Samuel Forgison, Jr., and Samuel Forgison Sr., and William Forgison. Among other names were Ross, Gillespy, Ward, and Bowen. It is stated in other family researchers that our Thomas Ferguson was also a signer on this petition. To date I have not found his name.
The following was received from the Historical Society of Washington County, Virginia, Inc., PO Box 484, Abingdon, VA 24212-0484 to myself February 23, 2004: Dear Mrs. Sutton, This is in response to your request for information for the Ferguson
family in Washington and Russell Counties, Virginia and specifically `your' Thomas Ferguson listed in Russell County tax records from 1792-1799 & Nancy, widow of John Bowen after 1789 who married Thomas Ferguson and specifically need Nancy's maiden name. The following information is included: John Bowen married Nancy Gillespie in 1784. John Bowen died suddenly in Philadelphia hotel on a trip to sell cattle. Nancy Gillespie Bowen was married second to Thomas Ferguson and in 1802 went to Knox County, Tennessee (added note from myself this should be Knox County, Kentucky). Ref: Annals of Tazewell County, Virginia. (2) John Bowen 11763 to April 1789, widow Nancy married Thomas Ferguson. Ref Gordon Aronhime Records, VA State Library Archives. (3) John Bowin/Bowen and wife Nancy Bowen, Ref Russell County, VA DF2:216 1796. There is a book in the Russell County Public Library which we do not have, but may be of further help. The book is `Ferguson Connection, Russell County, 1775-1994. (added note here ...I have this book). We acknowledge and thank you for your donation for our Historical Society Library research. We trust that this research will be helpful for your Ferguson/Gillespie search. We would welcome adding a copy of your family lineage to our Family Files as a permanent repository for your family. Sincerely Rubinette M. Niemann, Volunteer, Historical Society Library.
In 1776, the Governor of Virginia signed a bill that called for the elimination of Fincastle County on the Clinch, thus splitting Fincastle into three counties. The law stated: "whereas, from the great extent of the County of Fincastle, many inconveniences attend the more distant inhabitant there, on account of their remote situation from the courthouse of the said county, and many of the said inhabitants have petitioned their present General Assembly for division of the same: Be it therefore enacted by the General Assembly of the Commonwealth of Virginia and it is hereby enacted by the authority of the same, that from and after the last day of December next ensuing, the said County of Fincastle shall be divided into three counties."
The three new counties were Kentucky, Montgomery and Washington. Kentucky County eventually became the State of Kentucky. Washington County covered an area of about five thousand miles. The following counties were eventually created from parts of Washington County: Lee, Scott, Wise, Dickenson, Smyth and Russell. Before the formation of Russell County, Washington County only had a handful of slave owners, those being, Henry and Daniel Smith, Levisa Bowen who was the widow of Rees Bowen, William and James Fowler. There were no Ferguson or Gillespie slave owners.
Russell County, Virginia was formed 1786 from part of Washington County. It is located in the far southwestern part of Virginia. It is also noted that any migration into the area before the date of 1786 would have actually been into Washington County or one of it's mother counties. The boundary lines of Russell County extended northward from Clinch Mountain to the Cumberland Gap on the Kentucky border and eastward to a point near present Bluefield, Virginia. In 1745 the area known as Russell County was formed from a part of Augusta County, Between 1769 and 1785 this area was contained in Botetourt, Fincastle and Washington Counties. In 1790, the population of Russell County was 3, 338 people of which 190 were slaves. In the 1785 petition to form Russell County, there were no Ferguson or Gillespie families, in any spelling format, listed on this petition.
Russell County was broken up during the following years to form other counties; 1793 Lee County; 1799 Tazewell County (which was also formed from parts of Wythe County); 1815 Scott County from part of Russell and Lee County. By 1858 Russell County had been reduced to an area of 483 square miles, the crest of Clinch Mountain on the southern border, Sandy Ridge on the northern border.
The Bowen, Ward and Gillespie families were very prominent in the Clinch River area of Russell County which became Tazewell County. David Ward was the son-in-law to Rees Bowen who was killed at the Battle of Kings Mountain and his wife was Lousia Smith Bowen. Thomas Gillespie was married to Margaret Bowen, the daughter of Rees Bowen and Louisa Smith Bowen. Rees Bowen and Louisa Smith Bowen were the parents of John Bowen who married Nancy Gillespie, daughter of Thomas Gillespie. Nancy married Thomas Ferguson after the death of John Bowen. Thomas Ferguson was made guardian of Nancy's daughter. Nancy's brother Thomas filed suit against Thomas Ferguson for the guardianship of Levisa Bowen, daughter of John Bowen and Nancy. Thomas Gillespie won after a long court battle and later his son married Levisa Bowen.
The Ferguson families who established their roots in Washington County, which became Russell County which became Tazewell County, ' in the late 1700s are believed to be of Scotch-Irish descent. The Scotch-Irish began to arrive in America in 1640 and continued to arrive during the next several years. By 1700, the Scottish population who had fled to Ireland to escape religious persecutions now found themselves in adverse conditions in Ireland. In 1704, Parliment excluded Presbyterians from holding civil and military offices and taxed them to support the Angelican Church in which the Scottish refused to worship. From 1717 a steady stream of these Scotch-Irish came to the American Colonies, with 10,000 people arriving in Pennsylvania within one year, many settling in Philadelphia.
When the Governor of Virginia of Virginia opened the southwest part of Virginia to settlement, families traveled over the mountains and dealt with the Native Indians to establish new homes in this new land. Many of the Scotch-Irish Presbyterians from Pennsylvania and Maryland made their way through the Shenandoah Valley to Augusta County which was mainly inhabited with those belonging to the Espiscopal Church of England. Religious conflicts arose between these two religions but most conflicts were soon ceased. Pennsylvania and Maryland were not the only areas these Scotch-Irish settled in, many settled in the Carolina Colonies.
There were eight forts built on the Clinch frontier in Virginia; the Blackmore's Fort, officer in charge was Sergeant Moor with 16 men; Moore's Fort whose officer in charge was Daniel Boone with 20 men; Russell's Fort whose officer in charge was Sergeant W. Poage with 20 men; Glade Hollow Fort whose officer in charge was Sergeant John Duncan with 15 men; Elk Garder Fort whose officer in charge was Sergeant John Kinkead with 18 men; Maiden Spring Fort, officer in charge was Sergeant Joseph Cravens; Witten's Big Creek Orchard, Ensign John Campbell with three men. This list was dated October 6, 1774. There were no Ferguson men listed in the above 97 men but in the Maiden Springs Fort, August - November 1774 was Rees Bowen and David Ward among others. This information was from the Historical Sketches of Southwest Virginia Publication April 1968.
The following is the Thomas Ferguson Estate Record. "Be it remembered that on the 16th day of July 1836, James Ferguson took out letters of administration of the goods and chattels rights credits monies and effects which were of Thomas Ferguson late of Greene County, Indiana deceased from the Clerk of the Probate Court of said County according to law and filed bonds therein according to law subject to revocation or confirmation at the next Probate Court of said County.
And afterward to wit:
At a Probate Court began and held at the Court House at Bloomfield in Greene County in the State of Indiana on Monday, the 8th day of August 1836.
November Term 1837 Final Record
Present the Honorable Miles D. Lester, Probate Judge for said County on the first day of said term. On motion the letters of administration granted by the Clerk in and bond herein filed are now confirmed.
And also - that the Inventory of personal property herein filed be recorded herein which said inventory reads in the records and required the following, to wit:
Item $ Cts
one bell 1 25
one half bushel 25
one cart 4 50
one man's saddle 6 50
one sorrel mare taken by the widow 40 00
one bed and bedding taken by the widow 2 00
two bed and bedding taken by the widow 75
two ovens taken by the widow 1 50
to horse gears 2 00
to one log chains 1 37-1/2
to one pare of spreaders & serving tree irons 75
Two kettles & one pare of hooks 4 50
One Plow 4 00
One pare of spreaders & chains 50
One cow 1 00
One iron wedge ., 75
One shovel plow 1 75
One lot of hogs ten in November taken by the Widow 12 00
November Term 1837 Final Record
Two ewes & lambs 5 00
One lot of sheep four in number 7 00
One pided heifer 4 00
One bridle bull 6 00
Two heifers 20 00
One cow and calf taken by the widow 12 00
One Scythe and cradle 50
Jesse Rainbolt & E. Jackson
Cash on hand 54 87 – 1/2
James Ferguson, Admr.
And that this cause be continued to the next term of this court, And afterwards, to wit: At a Probate Court began and held at the Courthouse at Bloomfield in Grreene County in the State of Indiana., on Monday the fourteenth day of November one thousand eight hundred and thirty-sixe. Present Honorable Willis D. Lester, Probate Judge, and for the County of Greene aforesaid the first day of said term. On motion this cause is - to the next term of this court. And afterwards to wit: At a probate court began held at the court house at Bloomfeld in Greene County in the State of Indiana on Monday the 13th day of Feb in the year eighteen hundred and thirty seven. Present the Honorable Willis D. Lester Probate Judge in and for the County of Greene aforesaid in the State aforesaid on the first day of said term.
November Term 1837 Final Record: On motion this cause is continued to the next term of this court. And afterward to wit: At a Probate Court began and held at the Court house in Bloomfield in Greene County in the State of Indiana on Monday the 8th day of May 1837. Present the Honorable Willis D. Lester Probate Judge in and for the County of Greene and at the aforesaid on the fifth day of said Term now administrator and files a sale bill which is ordered to be recorded herein, which sale bill deeds in the words and figures following to wit: Account of sale of the personal property of Thos Ferguson late of the County of Greene, State of Indiana, deceased at a public auction held at the late dwelling house of the said deceased on the 13th day of August A. D. 1838. Sold to: Wm. Dugger one bell for one dollar and 25 cents; Wesley Ferguson one pair for one dollar; Samuel Session one swingletree for 36 and 1/2 cents; to Lemuel Sesson one swingletree for 31 and 1/4 cents; To the same one pair of gears for 81 and l/4 cents; to James Duger one shovel plough for one dollar and 56 and 1/4 cents; to Augustine Ferguson one iron wedge for 81 and 1/4 cents; to Samuel Price one Cary plough for 3 dollars and 56 and 1/4 cents; to Wesley Ferguson one Cary plough for 50 cents; to Joseph Chetton one Scythe and Cradle for 1 dollar and 6 and 1/4 cents. (end of inventory record)
On October 4, 1994, there was a ceremony at Storm Cemetery honoring the Veterans of the Revolutionary War, War of 1812, Mexican War, and the Civil War. Before that day the Boy Scout Troop #466 dug up weeds, cleared the ground of all overgrown and dead plants and debris, chopped down dead trees and cleaned up all the gravesites. The following is from some of the newspaper clippings: "Greene County Historical Society honoring veterans buried in Storm Cemetery, McCloskey presenting flag for burial ground. Written by Ryan DuVall, Daily Citizen Staff Writer.
"The Greene County Historical Society is holding a ceremony Sunday at 2:30 p.m. in the Storm Cemetery in eastern Greene County to honor the veterans of four earlyAmerican wars who are buried there.
Congressman Frank McCloskey and his wife, Roberts will be on hand to present a flag to be flown at the burial ground on national holidays.
The cemetery is the final resting place for eight known veterans of the Revolutionary War, the War of 1812, the Mexican American War, and the Civil War. Arthur W. Collins, a Methodist minister and a descendant of one of the Revolutionary veterans, will be the main speaker at the ceremony and DAR chapter member William Clenny, the Boy Scout Troop #466 from Eastern Heights and members of the American Legion Post #450 in Solsberry will be attending.
A number of descendants of these veterans live in the area and are invited to attend the ceremony along with other interested members of the public. The veterans buried there are Thomas Edwards, Thomas Ferguson, Adam Rainbolt, and John Storm (for whom the cemetery is named), from the Revolutionary War; John Rainbolt from the War of 1812; Samuel Riddle from the Mexican American War; and John M. Riddle and Joel Sexson from the Civil War. The first burial in the cemetery was in 1819 and the last in 1901".
The Color Ceremony and Flag Raising was done by the Boy Scouts of Troop 466. The Introductory and talk on Storm Cemetery was given by Mildred Uland of Greene County Historical Society. The Introduction of Mrs. McCloskey was given by Kathleen Barnes of William Clenny Chapter DAR. Presentation of the Flag by Roberta mcCloskey. Introduction of Dr. Arthur W. Collins by Rosemay Fordyce, President and Greene County Historical Society. Speech `Should Auld Acquaintance be REcalled" by Dr. Arthur W. Collins. Daughters of the American Revolution Tribute by Shirley Short, Vice President, Deloris Aydelotte-Chaplin, William Clenny Chapter-NSDAR; and assisted by Boy Scout Troop 466. Gun Salute by the American Legion Post #450 in Solsberry. The Closing Pray by Dr. Arthur W. Collins.
Thomas Ferguson has two headstones; the original showing birth year as 1766 and a replacement showing year of birth as 1756. It clearly indicates that the person who had the replacement headstone done made an error in the year reading on the original for it clearly shows 1766. The 1830 census which shows Thomas between 60-70 years of age shows that Thomas would be 64 years old. A biography done on Thomas by another researcher stated that Thomas was 74 years old at the time of his death in 1836. If he was 74 years old in 1836 that would have made his birth year 1760. So it is safe to say that Thomas was born between 1756 and 1766.
As for Thomas' wife, Nancy, we know she was the widow of John Bowen and had one daughter by him. Her maiden has never been proven but it is recorded in the Tazewell County Archives that she was Nancy Gillespie. One of Thomas and Nancy's sons, John Wesley, in his biography of his parents, stated that his mother's maiden name was Young. Most of the Ferguson researchers go by the name of Gillespie while those who believe she was a Young still by that. I refer to her as Nancy Young Gillespie Bowen.
A letter from Joe Gaston states in part: "John Bowen married Nancy Gillespie/Young. They had one, child, a girl named Levisa Bowen. John Bowen died on a business trip to Philadelphia in a hotel. He was there buying cattle. Cause of death was unknown and shocking to the Bowen's. My Thomas Gillespie and his wife Margaret Bowen, sister to John Bowen and daughter to Lt. Reese Bowen, was in a court battle with Thomas Ferguson for the guardianship of Levisa Bowen, Nancy's daughter. Levisa was not an infant at this time buy a young lady. I believe Thomas and Nancy were ready to move and Thomas Gillespie and his wife wanted to obtain guardian of Margaret's niece, Levisa, before Thomas and Nancy moved on to Kentucky. I don't think Nancy changed her name from Gillespie to Young. Author John Harman and David Trimbel both said Nancy was a Gillespie. But they both could not say who her parents were. I believe Thomas Gillespie was the son of William and Mary Gillespie. Thomas was the only Gillespie in Tazewell at this time with a family. Nancy could have been a sister of Thomas and daughter of William and Mary Gillespie. William and Mary had a daughter Nancy Agnes Gillespie born about 1755, but we have record of this Nancy Agnes being married to Charles Bowen. Charles is a brother of Lt. Rees Bowen. They were with William and Mary Gillespie in Virginia and South Carolina. Now, it is possible that there were two daughters, Nancy and Agnes and that would account for both marrying Bowen brothers. Note that David Trimbel lists only five children for William and Mary Gillespie: Robert, Mary, Nancy, Thomas and James. Most critics named the others as: John, William and Elizabeth. Robert born about 1747 Augusta County, Virginia married Agnes Russell; Mary born about 1749 Augusta County married Robert Bowen; James born 1751 Augusta County married Isabella Gillespie dau. of Robert; John born 1753 married Jane Harvey; Agnes born 1755 married Charles Bowen; Thomas born 1757 married Marjaret Bowen; William 7r. born 1761 married Sarah Mary Carpenter and Elizabeth born 1763 married James Cunningham.
I also believe your Thomas Ferguson, who some say is the son of Thomas and Elizabeth, is actually the son of Andrew who is listed in the petition to form Tazewell County. Your Thomas may even be a grandson of this Andrew. I don't see Thomas Ferguson being as violent as some led others to believe. He was probably a tough military leader and a litter brew may have stirred his oats up a bit. But I can not see him as brutal because him and Nancy had 11 children. Thanks for letting me in on this pow-wow. Joe Gaston.
The Clan & The Name Of Ferguson Or Fergusson from the homepage of the `Clan Fergusson Centre'. No single or common origin has ever been traced for the name of Ferguson or Fergusson which from very early times was established in many parts of Scotland, throughout the Central Highlands, Dumfriesshire, Ayrshire, Fife, Angus and Aberdeenshire, and in corners as remote as the burghs of Dunbar and Tain.
It's original Gaelic form MacFhearghuis or MacFergus has been spelled McKerras, anglicised as Ferguson or Fergusson, and shortened in Fergus, Ferrar, Ferrie, Ferries, Ferris and Ferriss, corrupted into other forms like Fergushill and Fergie, and the Sept Macadie with variations of Kiddie and Keddie. There is a legendary first ancestor in Fergus Mor mac Erc, a very early King of Scots in Argyll, and a more probable one in Fergus Prince of Galloway who died in 1161.
All that is known for certain is the Fergussons have always been a widely scattered name and in the pre-union Kingdom of Scotland were never regarded as a single coherent clan, as for example the Campbells, Camerons or Macgregors, although "Fergussonis' appear among the small clans of Atholl in an official list of the Border, and Highland clans in 1587, On the other hand in some districts, groups of families bearing the name recognised certain Fergusson lairds as their Chieftains; e.g. Kilkerran in Carrick, Dunfallandy in Atholl and Craigdarroch in Dumfriesshire. The Fergussons in the Cowal district of Argyll, like many small bodies of other names looked to the Earl of Argyll as their protector.
There were scattered but numerous Fergussons in Balquhidder, Strathyre, Fife and Stirlingshire, and a large number in Aberdeenshire and Angus.
The history of these different groups is naturally interwoven with that of the particular districts to which they belonged. The Fergussons of Carrick shared in the great feud between the rival Kennedy houses of Cassillis and Bargany about 1600, adhering to the Earl of Cassillis. Both they and the Dumfriesshire Fergussons mostly supported the cause of the National Covenant a generation later and opposed the rule of Charles II and Lauderdale in the "Killing Times."
Most of the highland Fergussons, except those in Argyll, supported the exiled Stuarts, and many of them were out in the "Forty Five" on the Jacobite side. In the more peaceful days following the Union, various Fergusson lairds are found prominent among the "improving lairds" who helped improve the face of rural Scotland, and win its widespread reputation for progressive agriculture, stockbreeding and afforestation. At Kilkerran in Carrick, Baledmund in Perthshire and Raith in Fife these traditions are still carried on.
The head of the family of Fergusson of Kilkerran has always been recognized since the early 18th century as the Chief of the name of Fergusson. The present chief is Sir Charles Fergusson of Kilkerran, 9th Baronet. Ferguson of Dunfallandy has also been granted by the Lord Lyon King of Arms supporters to their branch.
The Fergusson or Ferguson tartan which is now generally worn, dates from before 1850, when it was reproduced by Thomas Smibert in his book "The Clans of Highlands of Scotland." It can be manufactured in lighter shades styled by the tailors "Ancient" as well as the darker colors. However the cut is the same.
The armorial badge which all members of the Clan are entitled to wear, embodies the Crest of the Chief and consists of a bee on a thistle encircled with a strap and buckle, bearing the motto "Dulcius ex asperis" (Sweeter out of difficulties". The plant badge, which may be worn in the bonnet or pinned on the dress, is a sprig of Poplar.
The ancestral territory of the Ayrshire Fergussons is the hilly country stretching south west to the Firth of Clyde, between the Carrick rivers of Girvan and Stinchar. Till the last Middle Ages this was part of the semi-independent province of Galloway, and these Fergussons probably derived their name from Fergus, the Prince of Galloway who died in 1161 and was the ancestor of the Earls of Carrick.
Almost the first known Fergusson in Ayrshire on record in 1381, bore the traditional surname of "de Carryk". His name was Henry, and his son Malcom and granson John. A contemporary of this John was Duncan, son of Colin, who is listed as the Laird of "Kylkerane" in 1439 and was presumably the father of John Fergusson of Kilkerran who died in 1483. These lands of Kilkerran have descended in the same family ever since and at one time stretched from Stinchar, as far north as Moybole.
Kilkerran, the home of the chief s family stood above a retired glen in the hills, down which a burn runs to join the Water of Girvan at the modern village of Dailly near the parish church and manse. This strong tower was probably built around the year 1400 and enlarged before 1550. Part of its later portion still stands. The family abandoned it in the 17th century when they made their home in the former Kennedy house of Barclanachan, bought in 1686, and to which the name Kilkerran was transformed. This was rebuilt after 1695 by Sir John Fergusson of Kilkerran the first boronet, and enlarged in 1814 and 1874. It contains the family portraits of eight generations and many relics of former chiefs.
The Scotch-Irish in America by Ron Bremer
There are those who regard the term, 'Scotch-Irish' as a misnomer. It is a valid American terminology or expression and refers to those Scottish immigrants who came from Ulster in Northern Ireland in the seventeen hundreds. Most were Presbyterians.
While these people lived in Northern Ireland, they were often called Ulstermen, Ulster Irish, Scots Irish, Northern Irish, Covenanters, Irish Presbyterians and Orangemen. Most of these Scotch-Irish originally came from Scotland three or four generations earlier. They spoke a language called Gaelic, a pre-latin tongue that originated in Italy. It is a German dialect.
Many factors caused these people to leave Northern Ireland and to come to the United States and Canada. Not the least of which was the linen or flax famine.
They sailed from many ports, but the main port was Liverpool, England. Likewise they landed at many ports from Halifax, Nova Scotia (New Scotland) to Savannah, Georgia. Most of these colonial immigrants came through Boston, Massachusetts; New York City, New York; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; and Charleston, South Carolina.
The single largest port of entry for the Scotch-Irish was Philadelphia. This was by far the destination of the vast majority of these people. It is interesting to note during the time of the American Revolution the English were the largest single ethnic group, and the Germans were the third largest single ethnic group.
Since the Scottish people have been fighting the English for centuries, it is easy to see whey they fought on the side of Americans in the American Revolution. In fact, the American Civil War was but one of many Anglo-Celtic conflicts.
Many of the Scotch-Irish preferred to settle on the American frontier. They traveled the great Philadelphia wagon road through Maryland, Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Tennessee, Kentucky, and Ohio.
No other ethnic group did more to help this country with its westward movement than the Scotch-Irish. They preferred to live next door to, or with, the Native American Indians. This explains why those many Scotch-Irish descendants of today usually have some Indian blood. Many of them traveled south through the Shenandoah Valley to the upper south which were the tribal lands of the Cherokees.
Prepared by Delores ‘dee’ Ferguson-Sutton
3901 Lake Road, Spc 118
West Sacramento CA 95691-3408