Charles Rowland Hall (1885-1962) of Tioga, Tioga County, PA and His Ancestors

Compiled by
Dr. Daniel C. Hyde
235 Stein lane
Lewisburg, Pa 17837
(570) 524-9994
hyde at bucknell.edu
Original Version July 8, 1988
Major Update July 23, 1997
Minor Update July 29, 1998


Table of Contents


Charles Rowland Hall9

Hall Ancestors
Jonathan Elijah Hall8
Joseph Hall7
Jonathan Strange Hall6
Joseph Hall5
Jonathan Hall4
David Hall3

Rowland Ancestors
William B. Rowland7

Arnold Ancestors
Elijah Arnold6
Isaac Arnold5
Humphrey Arnold4
Thomas Arnold3
Isaac Arnold2
Thomas Arnold1

Porter Ancestors
Samuel Porter4

Weaver Ancestors
Tillman Weaver3

Coons (Kuntze) Ancestors
Joseph Kuntze2

Jackson Ancestors
George Jackson5
John Jackson4

Reger Ancestors
Abram Reger5
Jacob Reger, Sr.4
Anthoni Rieger3
Hans Jacob Rueger2

Brake Ancestors
Johan Jacob Brake, Sr.4
Johan Jacob Brake, Sr.3

Notes


Charles Rowland Hall

Charles Rowland Hall9 (the superscript means Charles is of the ninth generation covered in this history.), the maternal grandfather of the compiler, has a proud heritage. Included among his direct ancestors are a German Baron, a prominent member of the Virginia Assembly, a member of the Virginia Constitutional Convention and at least four patriots of the American Revolutionary war.

Charles was born September 18, 1885 in Poplar Flat, Lewis County, Kentucky. On April 9, 1893, Charles' mother Florence Ann Rowland8 Wilson Hall died at the early age of forty. Florence Ann Hall is buried at Ebenezer Churchyard, Poplar Flat, Kentucky. Shortly after her death, Charles' father John Elijah Hall8 moved his family to Roanoke, Lewis County, West Virginia. John E. Hall moved back to West Virginia to his dad's farm to take care of his mother Mary Elizabeth Arnold7 Hall [1] [2] ( The numbers in square brackets refer to the Notes Section near the end of the document.).

Around 1900, Charles' sisters Mary Helen,9 Ann Florence9 (Aunt Annie) and half sister Armina Dorcas Wilson9 (Aunt Minnie - mother of Natalie May10 Erickson) without a mother convinced their dad, John E. that Roanoke, West Virginia had little prospects and they wanted "to get out of West Virginia hills." John E. Hall saw an advertisement in a farm paper for a fruit farm near Richmond, Virginia. John bought the 120 acres and moved to Peakes Turnout, Hanover County, Virginia. He sent the furniture by mule over the mountains while the family went by train [3].

Though the family moved to Virginia, Charles stayed with his Uncle George Hall,8 father of Gordon T. Hall,9 in Roanoke for several years. Charles always spoke fondly of his Uncle George and those few years in West Virginia. Around the age of 18 (1903), Charles moved to live with his family in Peakes Turnout though he returned several times to see his Uncle George including a time when he brought along his young son, George Rowland Hall10 [4] .

The move was soon successful for one of the Hall girls as Mary Helen Hall married George Jefferson Smith on February 7, 1912. It was through Mary that Charles met his future bride. In their home in Peakes Turnout, George and Mary Smith had a boarder named Ethel Ruth Morrison.9 In the middle of the winter of 1915-1916, Ethel got sick with the flu and her sister Margaret Thornton Morrison9 came down to take care of her because Ethel couldn't get out of bed. Charles was over to visit his sister Mary and met Margaret. That was in January, 1916 and Charles and Margaret were married on June 29, 1916 [5].

Charles9 and Margaret9 Hall had five children.

1. George Rowland Hall10 (b. 14 Mar 1917, d. 7 Jan 1987) m. Donna May Smith (b. ; d. ), May 30, 1937 in Greenwood, N. Y.

2. John Lonnie Hall10 (b. 16 June 1919) m. Dorothy Knowlen, Aug. 30, 1942 in Rossville, Ga. Dottie died 23 Mar 1996 and is buried in Veterans National Cemetery, Bushnell FL. John remarried Anna M. Jardine on 22 Aug 1996.

*3. Mary Ellen Hall10 (b. 28 Sep 1920) m. Harold Lawrence Hyde, June 11, 1938 in Wellsboro, Pa. [A `*' signifies a direct ancestor of the compiler.]

4. Stuart Gravatt Hall10 (b. 23 Oct 1922) m. Onnalee Truax, May 18, 1946 in St. Marys, Pa.

5. Margaret Florence ("Peg") Hall10 (b. 27 Aug 1927) 1st m. Donald Edwin Cook, Sept. 2, 1944; 2nd m. Martin Easton, May 28, 1955.

When John Elijah Hall died in 1914, the farm was divided equally among the three children. Charles combined his 40 acres and Annie's by buying her out. For a while Charles farmed all 120 acres as he paid the taxes and took care of Mary's 40 acres after she died in 1918 until her son Welford came of age [6]. Charles' 80 acres had a creek where the family fetched their water and the kids could play.

Charles walked over a mile through the woods to work at the railroad station. Starting about 1914, Charles was employed on the Chesapeake and Ohio railroad. He was employed for over twenty years -- long enough to get a pension [7]. His right eye [8] was blinded in a railroad accident. A cinder got in his eye and became infected, and he was in the hospital for many weeks [9]. Charles always told his grandchildren that this was his lucky eye which allowed him to find four leaf clovers [10] among other things. With this lucky eye, Charles was always finding indian arrowheads as he worked in his lower vegetable garden at Tioga, Pa., much to the dismay of his grandchild who had just walked over the same ground [11].

In May, 1934, Charles took a leave of absence from his job on the railroad and moved his family to Fox Hill, Ulysses, Potter County, Pa. to take over the old farm that had belonged to Alva T. May, father of Natalie May10 Erickson. The old farm was in bad shape with no modern machinery and Charles and his sons had a hard time of it. For a while the only work was chopping wood for others. They made it through the first summer and Charles decided to return to work on the railroad in Virginia while the family stayed in Ulysses. While in Virginia, he lived with his sister Annie [12].

In 1936, Charles and fellow employees on the railroad were loading rail plates into a rail car and one over shot and hit Charles in the head. The impact split open his head [13].

For a time while Charles was in Virginia, Margaret and her children lived in Corning, New York, in an apartment over a store. Margaret worked at Corning Glass Works at the plant where the famous 200 inch mirror was made for the Palomar telescope. While at the Glass Works, she was able to acquire most of her beautiful dishes through the employee's store [14].

In about 1945, Charles and his family moved to a farm overlooking the beautiful Tioga river valley in Tioga, Tioga County, Pa. This farm was much more successful -- at one time they had pigs, chickens, turkeys, guinea hens (buckwheats), horses and cows.

Charles died November 28, 1962 in Blossburg, Pa. Hospital and is buried in Fox Hill Cemetery, Ulysses, Potter Co., PA.

Margaret married Peter Ahearn (b. May 18, 1908, d. April 13, 1978) November 4, 1964. From about 1950 until the end of the 60's, Margaret, with the help of Charles and Pete, created a very successful greenhouse business on their property in Tioga, Pennsylvania. Margaret (b. Mar. 22, 1899) died 24 May 1992 in Coles Hospital, Coudersport, Potter County, PA. She is buried in Fox Hill Cemetery, Ulysses, PA.


Hall Ancestors

Jonathan Elijah Hall8

Jonathan Elijah Hall8 was born February 18, 1846 in Roanoke, Lewis County, Virginia (now West Virginia). He was in the Civil War fighting on the Confederate Side. At the end of the war, he was given a blanket and told to walk home which he did [15].

On October 21, 1884, Jonathan married Florence Ann Rowland8 Wilson (b. June 11, 1853) of Poplar Flat, Lewis County, Kentucky. The wedding took place at the Bride's house at Cabin Creek, Lewis County, Kentucky (near the present Ebenezer Church). Florence had previously married Amos Wilson (b. Mar. 6, 1851, d. Oct. 12, 1882) of Cabin Creek on March 9, 1874 and there were three children from this union: Hattie Wilson (b. Dec. 27, 1875 , d. Oct. 13, 1886 of diphtheria), Myrtie Lee Wilson (b. June 5, 1878, d. April 15, 1882) and Armina Dorcas (Minnie) Wilson9 (b. May 26, 1880, Winfield, Kansas, d. Dec. 18, 1915), mother of Natalie May10 Erickson. Since another Jonathan E. Hall lived in Poplar Flat, Lewis County, Kentucky, Jonathan Elijah seems to have gone by John Elijah Hall. This new variation of his first name stuck even when he moved to Virginia.

After their wedding, John and Florence lived in Cabin Creek and John became a member of Ebenezer Presbyterian Church, Cabin Creek (several miles west of the old county seat of Poplar Flat) on December 8, 1884. John became an Elder of the church on March 14, 1886.

Jonathan [John] Elijah and Florence Ann Hall had the following children:

*1. Charles Rowland Hall9 (b. Sept. 18, 1885 KY, d. Nov. 28, 1962 Tioga, PA) m. Margaret Thornton Morrison9 June 29, 1916, and they had five children.

2. Ann Florence ("Annie") Hall9 (b. June 11, 1887, d. April 10, 1965) m. April 11, 1916, James Campbell ("Camel") Wingfield (b. Dec. 10, 1886, d. Sept. 25, 1970), no issue.

"Married in Littleton"

Newspaper clipping from John Hall10; Newspaper unknown.

"A very pretty wedding took place in the parlor at Hotel Vera on Tuesday evening, April 11th 1919 [1916, the 9 is penciled over with a 6] at 9 o'clock. The contracting parties were Miss Annie F. Hall, the charming and attractive daughter of the late Mr. J. E. Hall, of Hanover County, Va. who became the bride of Mr. J. C. Wingfield, a popular and prosperous young farmer of the same County. The ceremony was performed by Rev. Mr. Cotton, pastor of the Methodist Church."

"Only a few special friends witnessed the ceremony. After the ceremony light refreshments were served."

"The bride and groom were the guests of Mrs. Thompson at the Hotel Vera, leaving for their new home in Hanover County, Va., Wednesday amid the hearty congratulations of her old and new found friends of N. C. The bride is very popular and much beloved by all who knew her."

3. Mary Helen Hall9 (b. May 19, 1891, d. Dec. 18, 1918 of the flu) m. Feb. 7, 1912, George Jefferson Smith (b. May 8, 1886, d. June 17, 1977), had one son Welford10 "Foots," b. Aug. 5, 1914.

As discussed earlier under Charles Rowland Hall,9 John after the death of Florence Ann moved to Roanoke, Lewis County, West Virginia around 1895 to take care of John's mother, Mary Elizabeth Arnold7 Hall. Florence Ann had died on April 9, 1893 and was buried in Kentucky at the Ebenezer Churchyard where her two daughters Hattie Wilson and Myrtie Wilson were buried.

Around 1900, John moved the family to the fruit farm at Peakes Turnout, Hanover County, Virginia. He lived in Peakes until he died on November 5, 1914 and was buried in Lebanon Church yard, Peakes Turnout, Va.

Joseph Hall7

Joseph Hall7 (b. 18 Jan 1820 VA, d. 2 Feb 1885) was raised by his parents Jonathan6 and Elizabeth Reger6 Hall on their farm in Roanoke, Lewis County, West Virginia. Joseph married Mary Elizabeth Arnold7 (b. 6 Dec. 1819 Fauquier Co., VA, d. 1 Oct 1907 Roanoke, Lewis Co. WVA) 9 Dec. 1844 in Lewis Co., WVA. He was a farmer in Roanoke, Lewis County, West Virginia.

"Mary Elizabeth Arnold was the eldest daughter of Elijah and Prudence Arnold. She was born in Fauquier County, Virginia, 1819. She attended school at Clarksburg [Harrison Co., WVA].

"One day while at her home in Jacksonville, about the noon hour, she crossed the back yard, carrying a large butcher knife in her hand, on her way to inspect the cutting of a big fat juicy ham. Just as she reached the center of the yard a deer jumped the garden fence. She struck at it with her knife but only succeeded in wounding it. Not to be outdone she ran after it. The deer crossed the yard, leaped the fence into the road, and made for the river. On reaching the other side it attempted to jump a stake and rider fence, but the lofty rider prevented too much and the noble king of the forest was left hanging by his hind feet. By this time Elizabeth, still holding the knife, arrived on the scene, and promptly "struck the deer." When once asked by an inquisitive niece "Why, Aunt Liz, where did you stick it?" she replied, "In the neck, of course." Long after the dinner hour had passed her brothers returned home from their unsuccessful hunt, to find a huge stag hanging in the back yard. To the day of her death Elizabeth Arnold retained the antlers of "her hunt." She never tired [of] relating her thrilling experience to her young relations, and to one young great-niece in particular [I assume Mary Prudence (McClellan) O'Hara, author of the sketch.].

"About 1844 she was married to Joseph Hall, a brother of John Strange Hall. They settled at Bushes Mills, on the land given Elizabeth by her mother [Prudence Jackson Arnold]. Joseph Hall was Postmaster at Bushes Mills from June 15, 1854 to June 17, 1862. He was a farmer. Died at his home on ___ [2 Feb 1885]. Some years later Elizabeth Hall laid off a town and her brother, William Arnold, gave it the name "Roanoke" after Roanoke, Virginia. She died October 1, 1907, at her home in Roanoke, and is buried in the family burying ground [on the hill in back of the old Hall Homestead. The graves of Joseph and Elizabeth Hall were later moved to Forest Lawn Cemetery, Weston, Lewis Co., WVA before Stonewall Jackson Lake flooded the area.]."[74]

Joseph Hall7 and Mary Elizabeth Arnold7's children were the following:[57]

*1. Jonathan [John] Elijah Hall8 (b. 18 Feb 1846, d. 5 Nov 1914 Atlee, VA) m. Florence Ann Rowland6 Wilson Oct. 21, 1884 in Lewis Co., Kentucky.

2. Ann Jina(?) Hall8 "Aunt Annie Ramsey" (b. 18 May 1848, d. 2 Jun 1927) m. Nov. 27, 1884 Robert Newton Ramsey s/o William and Martha.

"The Wedding of Annie Hall and R. M. Ramsey"

Mezeppi, Dec. 6, 1884 "Weston Democrat" - Austin News [52]

"Permit your correspondent to say to your many readers that it was my pleasure to be present and officiate at the happy nuptials of Mr. R. M. Ramsey, of Manchester, Ohio and Miss Annie Hall, of Roanoke, at the residence of the bride's father, on Nov. 27th at 8:30 am. We arrived there in company with L. H. Hall on the evening of the 26th where we found the groom and several other of the friends already assembled but had not been seated around the glowing fire long before a number of the numerous friends and relatives arrived, and after many happy greetings and introductions supper was announced, where an abundance of good things was loading the large table which would intice the fastidious appetites.

"We lingered, and at last returned to the commodious parlor, with many regrets that we could not eat more, where there was exhibited, on a large center table, the numerous gifts and presents of friends, about 40 pieces of glass table ware, and one hundred and fifty dollars in cash from numerous friends, one hundred dollars from Joseph Hall and lady, the bride's father.

"Soon the sound of the violin was heard in an adjoining room where the young folks repaired and joined in the fantastic hop until the wee hours of the night. At 7:30 am we were again invited to the morning repast that excelled the former and after doing ample duty returned to the parlor where the twain was made one; and immediately after congratulations and amidst farewells and tears the happy pair left the happy home of her childhood and youth and took their hack for Weston, and thence by train to their future home in Ohio.

"Thus Lewis County loses one of her sweetest and amiable and finest daughters, and we noticed some sad looks by some of the young gents as they saw the fair rose plucked by another's hand. May peace, happiness and prosperity follow them to their future home."

"Married at Roanoke"

Same newspaper - another article [53]

"Married on Thanksgiving morning by Dr. Mason, at the residence of the brides' parents, Mr. Robert N. Ramsey, of Manchester, Ohio, to Anna, eldest daughter of Joseph and Elizabeth Hall, of Roanoke.

"A reception was given the evening previous by the bride elect, which was attended by a bevy of Collins Settlement's fairest daughters and gayest gentlemen. I shall not attempt a description of the ladies' toilets; neither shall I burden your columns with an enumeration of the presents dedicated to the fair recipient, nor the names of the admiring donors. Suffice it to say that they embraced everything that could adorn a table, from a salt-cellar to a bread plate, and from a pitcher to a pepper-box; while a few offerings were made as keepsakes, but equally appropriate. Among these I will name $100 from Mr. Hall, and $10 each by Messrs. G. J., Wm. E. and John G. Arnold."

"After joyous greetings and a bounteous supper, happy feet kept time to the sweet strains of the violin till the night was far spent. Sweet dreams, though brief, preceded the early gathering around the festal board; and at 8:30 o'clock the solemn words were spoken, and the twain were made one. Soon after with good wishes accompanying them, the happy pair started for their Weston home."

When Aunt Annie Ramsey was old, she had no place to stay, so in the mid 1920s she moved to Peakes Turnout, Hanover Co., VA and lived with Charles Rowland Hall9, her nephew. Margaret, Charles' wife, was not too happy and complained a lot about her staying there.

One night Aunt Annie Ramsey was standing with her back to the fireplace and her nightgown caught a fire. The blaze burned her back and rear and she was in bed for a long time. As a child of about age 6, Mary Ellen Hall10 would go into her room and talk with her.

Later, Welford Smith10's Dad (George Smith, who had married Charles Rowland Hall's sister Mary) and step-mother (Noville) agreed to take Aunt Annie Ramsey to their House. About six months later, she died (June 2, 1927) and left George and Noville her estate. She didn't leave Charles and Margaret a cent.[64]

3. Mary C. Hall8 (b. Jul 1859; d. 19 Jan 1914 Leo Province, Alberta, Canada) m. William Jones.

4. George William Hall8 (b. 2 Aug 1853 West Fork River, Lewis Co., WVA, d. 4 Aug 1922 Roanoke, Lewis Co. WVA[65]) m. Virginia Christian (b. 1860, d. 1955), children: Charles Oliver, Josephine A., Mary E., Georgie C., Gordon T., Virginia.

5. Helen Eliza Hall8 (b. 18 Mar 1857 Lewis Co. WVA) m. 23 Sep 1884 George Clark.

6. Charles C. Hall8 (b. 4 Jan 1860 Lewis Co. WVA; d. 1907 in the west) [have his picture].

An item in the June 4, 1881, "Weston Democrat" states [54]:

"Mrs. Joseph Hall was thrown from her horse Tuesday morning last causing compound fracture to her left limb."

Joseph Hall's obituary appeared February 14, 1885 in the "Weston Democrat." [55]

"Departed this life on Tuesday the 3rd of Feb. 1885 at his residence near Roanoke in the 65th year of age, Joseph Hall. He married Elizabeth Arnold, eldest sister of Hons. George J. and William Edward Arnold in 1844, and it can truthfully be said there never were two persons who lived more happily and independently then they did. They had plenty of the goods which come by industry and their door was always open to generous hospitality. They raised to manhood and womanhood 3 sons and 3 daughters and they and their mother survive him.

"Joseph Hall was "an honest man" and he died as he had lived a Christian gentleman, respected by all who knew him in life. His stay on earth was peaceful and quiet and when ordered to appear before his maker, he met the summons with heroic fortitude. By industry and an upright life he has left to those who succeed him a competency -- and what to them is best of all -- a good example, worthy to imitate." (signed by A Neighbor dated Feb. 9, 1885)

Mary Elizabeth Hall's obituary appeared in the Friday Oct. 4, 1907 Weston Democrat : [56]

"Mrs. Mary Elizabeth, widow of Joseph Hall died at her home at Roanoke, Lewis County, on Tuesday morning Oct. 1, 1907, at the advanced age of 87. She was a sister of the late George J. Arnold, William E. Arnold and Porter M. Arnold and John G. Arnold, Mrs. Catherine Hall, Mrs. John S.[Strother] Fisher of Buckhannon and Mrs. Henry Brannon. She leaves surviving her the following children, John Hall of Richmond, VA, Mrs. Anna Ramsey of Manchester, Ohio, Mrs. Mary Jones of Canada, Mrs. Helen Clark of Kansas and Mr. George W. Hall, of this county, with whom she spent her declining years and who faithfully ministered to her unto the last. Her youngest son, Charles, died some years ago in the west. Mrs. Hall passed many years in widowhood. In early life she united with the Protestant Methodist Church and always lived a consistent Christian life. She was a devoted and faithful wife and mother and a kind neighbor and her death though it came in the ripeness of age will be deeply lamented by her family and acquaintances.

"Her name through a long life was one of high respectability and she left it untarnished. She was a woman of strong mind and character. Her last years were years of suffering incident to old age, but she bore under it in peaceful composure and often expressed resignation and readiness to depart from her earthly tabernacle, so frail, so worn with years.

But when the sun in all his state
Illumed the eastern skies
She passed through glory's morning gate
And walked in paradise."

Jonathan Strange Hall6

Jonathan Strange Hall6 (b. 8 Nov 1797 in Harrison Co., VA (now Barbour Co., WVA), d. 10 Oct 1875, Collins Settlement, Lewis Co., WVA) married on February 25, 1819 Elizabeth Reger6 (b. 31 Oct 1801 in Harrison Co. VA (now Barbour Co., WVA); d. Sep 1887) and they had the following children:[57]

*1. Joseph Hall7 (b. 18 Jan 1820, d. 2 Feb 1885) m. Mary Elizabeth Arnold7 (b. 6 Dec. 1819, d. 1 Oct 1907 Roanoke, Lewis Co., WVA).

2. Abraham R. Hall7 (b. 18 Jan 1820; d. 7 Feb 1877) Twin. Sheriff of Lewis County in 1860.[66] He was killed by the falling of a tree near the O'Brien Home on Polk Creek, Lewis Co., WVA. He was cutting the tree.[58]

3. Gideon Hall (b. 7 Oct, 1822; d. 14 Sep 1837)

4. Ezra Hall7 (b. 2 Feb 1824; d. 21 May 1910, Texas, buried Temple, Texas [59]) m. 24 Dec 1850 Martha Jane Anderson (b. Nov 1827, d. 29 Jul 1901 Lewis Co., WVA[67]), dau. of Sarah Siron and James Anderson.

5. John Strange Hall7 (b. 29 Jan 1826, d. 30 Mar 1912 Jacksonville, Lewis Co., WVA) [16] M. 12 Jun 1861 [68] Amanda Jane Arnold (b. 15 Mar 1841; d. 26 Dec 1881), dau. of George Jackson Arnold and Susan Wheeler.[92] He was a Lewis County, West Virginia, county superintendent of free schools [17][18]. He was a local historian and wrote a column about pioneers in the local Weston, Lewis Co., WVA, newspaper.

6. Mary Hall7 (b. 6 Sep 1828; 12 May 1903) m. 4 Jun 1845 [69] David J. Talbot, s. of Samuel T. and Sarah Talbot.

7. Martha Ann Hall7 (b. 13 Nov 1829; d. 21 May 1911 Buckhannon, WVA) m. (1) 20 Apr 1850 Joseph S. Vandervort, (2) 29 Jun 1854 Emmet Jones O'brien s. of Daniel and Hanna (Norris) O'Brien. [60][70]

8. Nancy Elizabeth Hall7 (b. 13 Sep 1834) m. 12 Dec 1866 James M. Berry.

9. David H. Hall7 (3 Feb 1837; d. 22 Jan 1862 wounded in shoulder on Allegheny Mountain and later died of pneumonia and was buried there[61]). In Civil War as Confederate.

10. Jonathan Emory Hall7 (b. 18 Jun 1839; d. 30 Nov 1875) m. 1 May 1862 Margaret Virginia ("Jennie") Roach (b. 1840), dau. William B. and Nancy Roach.

11. Sarah Jane Hall (b. 6 Jan 1843) m. 17 Dec 1862 William Patrick Francis.

"Joseph Hall's son, Jonathan, settled on this land [Skin Creek (named after the famous hunt where Jesse Hughes, Alexander West, Colonel William Lowther and Colonel George Jackson5, a relative -- see section on George Jackson5 --, had camped and skinned the over 40 deer taken the previous day.), Lewis County, West Virginia] in 1820. Ten years later he cleared the site of the old camp [the old Indian camp -- a spring and a beautiful location for a house given to him by Jesse Hughes], near which he built a new residence. The fire hearths of the camp, three in number, were unearthed by the plow. They were about two rods apart, and in the form of a triangle. They indicated long use, the ashes and burned stone extending considerably below the surface. Nearby were two dark spots in the soil [possibly where the deer were skinned?], each about sixteen feet in diameter. These proved extremely fertile, the corn growing much more luxuriantly there than on the surrounding soil. The unearthing of the old camp was witnessed by Jonathan Hall's sons, the youngest of whom [He was not youngest!], John Strange Hall, is still living [He died 30 Mar 1912.], and occupies the ancestral homestead. To Mr. Hall I am indebted for most of the particulars contained in this chapter." [19]

"A special to the "Register", Wednesday from Clarksburg states that the body of Elizabeth Hall, the widow of John Hall was found in the woods on the right fork of Ten Mile Creek suspended from a tree to which a rope was attached, the other end being around her neck. She was dead when discovered. A coroner's jury finds that she came to her death at her own hands. The cause of the suicide is unknown."" Weston Democrat, Sept. 17, 1887. [88]

Joseph Hall5

Joseph Hall5 (b. 1745 in England, d. before 25 Jun 1824 (his Estate)) married Ann Hitt5 Martin Strange (d. 1810) in 1796. They had two sons:

*1. Jonathan Strange Hall6 (b. 8 Nov 1797 in Harrison Co. VA (now Barbour Co., WVA); d. 10 Oct 1875 Collins Settlement, Lewis Co., WVA) m. in 25 Feb 1819 Elizabeth Reger4 (b. 31 Oct 1801 in Harrison Co. VA (now Barbour Co., WVA) d. Sep 1887).

2. Rev. David Hall6 (b. Mar. 4, 1800 in Va., d. Nov. 30, 1870) m. 20 Jan 1820 Elizabeth Forinash (b. 1802 in Va., d. Jan. 6, 1883 aged 83 [20]). Merchant and a Methodist Protestant Minister. "In 1867, a lot was donated and a creditable frame building was erected, and named Hall Chapel, in honor of the man who donated the lot, Rev. David Hall." [21]

Quoting Lucullus Virgil McWhorter in 1915 [22].

"He [Joseph Hall5] was born in England in the year 1745. His father, Jonathan Hall [4], was a land owner, or tenant proprietor, and like his ancestors, a farmer. Joseph was a younger son, and under the English laws could not inherit any of the ancestral acres, so he was educated for the mercantile business and entered the employment of an uncle [David Hall?]."

"In 1764, this uncle closed up business, and accompanied by Joseph, came to Alexandria, Virginia, and became one of the leading merchants of that place. In 1774, Joseph volunteered in Governor Dunmore's expedition against the Indians, and was made a corporal in Dunmore's division."

"After the return of this wing of the army, the feeling against the Governor and the British Government became intense, and caused an estrangement between the merchant and his nephew. The former was favorable to opposing British interferences in colonial affairs, while Joseph advocated passive measures. As the Revolutionary storm thickened, patriot and loyalist parted company and Joseph rented a farm of Lord Fairfax on Patterson Creek, in now Mineral County, West Virginia, where with a partner he carried on farming for ten years. In the meantime, his views changed regarding governmental affairs, and he rejoiced in the downfall of the British rule."

"In 1784, in company with Jacob Forenash and James Morrison, old comrades in Dunmore's War and who had worked for him, he came to Harrison County and purchased two hundred acres on Peor's [Peck's] Run, in now Upshur County, West Virginia. He employed Fecknash and Morrison to build a house and clear and cultivate this land under his supervision. For many years, Hall spent the most of his time at Clarksburg, assisting the Surveyor and the County Clerk. He entered numerous tracts of land, which involved him in lawsuits with but little compensation."

"Among his early acquaintances at Clarksburg were three Englishmen, whose names were Hall, but they could trace no family relationship. One of these settled in now Marion County, one on Hughes River and the other on Elk Creek. Some of the descendants of the latter intermarried with the Reger family."

"Joseph Hall was educated in advance of those around him, and was useful in imparting knowledge to his neighbors. He died in 1825."

"In January 1796, Joseph Hall married Ann Strange, nee Hitt. Tragedy had twice widowed this woman. Her first husband, Joel Martin, a soldier of the Revolution, died at the siege of Yorktown, 1781. Her second husband, William Strange, was lost on a surveying expedition in the mountains and his skeleton only found a great many years afterwards. [22]"

"Mrs. Hall, nee Hitt, was an estimable woman, and her married life with Mr. Joseph Hall was ideal. She died in 1810 leaving two children by her last husband; Jonathan, born November 8, 1797, and David, born March 4, 1800. They inherited their father's estate on Skin Creek."

"A unique feature of Joseph Hall's residence was the stairway, which was carved in one piece from a large poplar tree. [23]"

Ann Hitt's father was Herman Hitt. Her grandfather was Peter Hitt. She had a brother Rev. David Hitt, a Methodist preacher.

Joseph Hall later married Catherine "Caty" Radabough. Caty later married 2 Mar 1827 Ephraim Silvers.[71]

Jonathan Hall4

The father of Joseph Hall5 was Jonathan Hall4 (b. in England).

David Hall3

John Strange Hall7 states in a handwritten document that the father of Jonathan Hall4 was David Hall.3 He may have been confused with Jonathan4's uncle [or brother].


Rowland Ancestors

William B. Rowland7

The parents of Florence Ann Rowland8 were William B. Rowland7 and Mary Frances DeAtley7 Rowland. William B. Rowland (b. 1812 Lewis Co., Ky., d. ca. June 1875 Lewis Co., KY) married Mary Frances DeAtley (b. 1832 Lewis Co., Ky., d. ca. Sept., 1884) on August 8, 1852 at her father's home. William and Mary's children were:

*1. Florence Ann Rowland8 (b. 11 Jun 1853, d. 9 Apr 1893 Poplar Flat, KY) m. (1) 9 Mar 1874, Amos Wilson (b. 6 Mar 1851, d. 12 Oct 1882); (2) 21 Oct 1884, John Elijah Hall8 (b. 18 Feb 1846, d. 5 Nov 1914)

2. Mattie H. Rowland8

3. Havard K. Rowland8 (b. 1860)

4. Nannie D. Rowland8 (b. 1866) m. Napoleon B. Doggett

Mary Frances DeAtley's parents were Austin H. DeAtley6 (b. 1802 in Va.) and Elizabeth6 DeAtley (b. 1803 in Md.).


Arnold Ancestors

Elijah Arnold6

Elijah Arnold6 was born in 1771 Fauquier County, VA (d. 8 Dec 1849 Lewis Co., WVA) and on March 31, 1814 married Prudence Jackson6 (b. 25 Jan 1789 Clarksburg, Harrison Co., WVA, d. 21 Jun 1855 Weston, Lewis Co., WVA). "Elijah Arnold and Prudence Jackson became the ancestors of most of the Arnolds in Lewis County, West Virginia."[24]

" ... Mary Elizabeth Arnold (Mrs. Joseph Hall) daughter of Elijah and Prudence Jackson Arnold." [25]

"Prudence, the sixth child of George and Elizabeth Brake Jackson, was born in Clarksburg, [WVA] Jan. 25, 1789. She moved to Zanesville, Ohio, with her father, in 1807. The following is from an old record found in the Clerk's office at Zanesville, Ohio:"

"It is hereby certified that on Thursday, the 31st of March, 1814, I joined in marriage relation Elijah Arnold of the County of Fauquier of Virginia, and Prudence Jackson, of the County of Muskingum, Zanesville, Ohio."

Culbertson, V. D. M.

"Just one year before their marriage, on March 31, 1813, Elijah Arnold made his deed of gift. It begins:"

"Know all men by these presents that I, Elijah Arnold, of Forquor (Fauquier) County, and State of Virginia. For and in consideration of the mutual love and affection which I bear to Miss Prudence Jackson, a daughter of Col. George Jackson, of the State of Ohio. Have given and granted and by these presents do give and grant unto the said Prudence Jackson, her heirs, executors, administrators, or assigns, the following property: To-wit:

One half interest in merchant mill and land adjacent on the Fiery Run, the dwelling house and four acres, the Mill seat on the main branch of the Rappahannock River and adjoining land. A Mulatto woman named Judah, and her infant twins and her boy Washington."

"This marriage took place in 1814. Elijah Arnold was prepared to escort his bride, a tall stately brunette, to her new home in grand style. His handsome carriage, with its silver trappings and many outriders, had four magnificent blooded horses to draw it. On their way to Virginia they made a stop in Clarksburg and visited at the stately home of the bride's brother, John G. Jackson. This visit was long remembered by the people of Clarksburg on account of the magnificent appearance of the groom and the splendor of his equipage. The like of which had never been seen in Clarksburg before."

"Elijah Arnold was born in Fauquier County, Virginia, in 1772. He was a planter and merchant. Having inherited a great fortune from both his father, Isaac Arnold, and his mother, who was Mary Porter, the eldest child of Samuel Porter."

"In ____ Col. George Jackson gave his daughter Prudence one mile square, or 640 acres, of his wild land in Collins Settlement. A certain portion of which was "to be laid off in town lots and sold for the benefit of my daughter Prudence." The town was to be called Jacksonville. December ___, 1825, she sold ___ acres of this land to Henry Camden. Soon after this Elijah Arnold lost his large estate. He had been going security for relatives and friends, and was obliged to pay their debts. Everything was lost. Even the property of the deed of gift and although many years were lost in trying to regain her dower, Prudence Jackson was never able to recover anything."

"In 1827 they moved to Clarksburg. About 1830 they moved to "Collins settlement" where they built a two-story log house. A village soon sprung up and in 18__ the name was changed to Jacksonville. This log house, which is still standing, was white washed and called by the settlers for miles around the 'Big White House.'"

"Elijah Arnold was tall, of fine carriage, was considered by many as one of the handsomest men of that day. He was very literary and spent the remaining years of his life among his books and papers."

"Prudence Jackson seemed to have possessed a strong character, evidently she inherited much from her grandmother, Elizabeth Cummins. The following item is taken from her obituary, "She was a woman of strong intellect and possessed much useful and practical information." At the time of their moving to Collins Settlement the county was but sparsely settled, and very little of the county had been clearly of woods. The Arnold boys were young and to encourage them their mother would take her knitting to the clearing and sit there, while they worked. She held high ambitions for her children, and did much towards helping them in their several achievements."

"In the fall of each year it was customary for Elijah Arnold to make an annual visit to Virginia, so that he might attend mass of the Roman Catholic Church at Winchester, of which he was a member. On his return from one of these visits he stopped in Weston to visit his son, William Edward Arnold, was taken ill and died [of "Gravel" states Lewis Co., WVA Mortality Schedule, 1850] on December 8, 1849, and is buried in the old Arnold cemetery [Near end of Arnold Street, Weston, WVA]."

"Some time after his death Prudence Jackson Arnold moved to Weston and made her home with her unmarried son, George Jackson [Arnold]. Although at the time he invited her to come and live with him, she remarked that "yes" she would come to his house to live, but that hereafter it was to be her home and that he could live with her. There she died June 21, 1855, and was laid to rest at the side of her husband. The Collins Settlement land which she inherited from her father she gave to her sons."[75]

The children of Elijah and Prudence Arnold are the following:[62]

1. George Jackson Arnold7 (b. 16 Mar 1816, Culpeper Co., VA; d. 26 Sep 1899) m. 3 Aug. 1865,Anna Swick. They had 8 children. Daughter Amanda Jane Arnold8 married John Strange Hall.7

2. William Edward Arnold7 (b. 10 Apr 1817 Culpepper Co., VA; d. 30 Apr 1890) m. 10 May 1848, Susan Martin Wilson (b. 13 Apr 1827,;d. 22 Jul 1899) eldest dau. of Col. Josiah D. Wilson of "Wilsonburg" near Clarksburg, WVA.

*3. Mary Elizabeth Arnold7 (b. 6 Dec. 1819 in VA; d. 1 Oct 1907 Weston, Lewis Co., WVA) m. 9 Dec 1844, Joseph Hall7 (b. 18 Jan 1820 VA; d. 2 Feb 1885).

4. Porter Maudeville Arnold7 (b. 1822 in Fauquier Co., VA; d. 22 Nov 1861 Jacksonville, Lewis Co., WVA from shot gun wounds from being a Southern Sympathizer[63] ) m. (1) Susan Asbury (d. 1858); m. (2) 30 Jan 1859 Julia Stephenson (b. 1833) of Pendleton Co., VA.

5. Sarah Catherine Arnold7 (b. 1 May 1824 in Fauquier Co., VA; d. 30 Jun 1911 Weston, Lewis Co., WVA) m. May 24, 1849 Charles Swearinger Hall (b. 30 May 1822 Fairmont, VA; d. 7 Jun 1857, Philippi, VA).

6. John George Arnold7 (b. 1 Feb 1826 in Fauquier Co., VA; d. 30 Oct 1907) m. (1) 22 May 1855 Lucy Ann Bailey (b. 1837) of Weston; m. (2) on 16 Apr 1879 Artemissia Butcher (b. 1839; d. 24 Oct 1914).

7. Harriet Ann Arnold7 (b. 23 Oct 1831 Jacksonville, Lewis Co., WVA; d. 2 Nov 1911) m. at Weston 12 Dec 1860 John Strother Fisher (b. 1 Oct 1821; d. 9 Sep 1893 Buckhannon, WVA) of Rockbridge Co., VA.

8. Hetta Jane Arnold7 (b. 1832 Collins Settlement, Lewis Co., WVA; d. 21 Mar 1912 Weston, Lewis Co., WVA) m. at Weston 22 Dec 1858 Judge Henry Weston Brannon (b. 26 Nov 1837; d. 24 Nov 1914) of near Winchester, VA.

Elijah and Prudence Jackson are buried in Old Arnold Cemetery, Weston, Lewis Co., WVA.

Isaac Arnold5

Isaac Arnold5 (b. c1750; d. 1812) married Mary "Molly" Porter5 (b. about 1753; d. Aug 1815) on 23 Oct 1771 in Fauquier Co., VA. They lived in Hamilton Parish, Fauquier Co., VA.

As proof of Isaac's father, the Fauquier Co. Deed Book 10, page 176, 4 Jul 1789 states that Humphrey Arnold, Fauquier County, VA grants, "for love and affection for son Isaac two Negros, Sampson and Lettice together with all their profits and future increase."[78]

The evidence for Isaac and Mary's children was found in the Fauquier Co., VA Deed Abstracts (1758-1820). In Deed Book 9, p. 372, 5 Jan 1787, "For lives of Isaac Arnold, Samuel and Lewis Arnold his sons."[79] In Deed Book 14, page 568, Oct. 19, 1799, Isaac Arnold, Fauquier County grants land near Elijah Arnold "for love of my son Humphrey Arnold".[83] In Deed Book 17, page 147, Aug. 25, 1807, for Isaac Arnold's "love towards his 5 daughters ... to Catherine one negro girl - Pender; to Frances one negro girl - Moriah; to Nancy one negro boy - Peter; to Elizabeth one negro girl - Doley; to Sally one negro girl - Sidda."[84] In Deed Book 23, page 188, Mar. 10, 1819, the executors of Samuel Porter, dec. estate, Jesse Withers and Samuel Porter, grant for $1800 payment 352 acres of a tract of land lying in Culpeper County on Rappahannock River. "Beginning on south bank of said River --- Joseph Lewis line. Granted unto Isaac Arnold during his natural life remainder to said Elijah Arnold, Humphrey Arnold, Samuel Arnold, Katherine Arnold, Charlotte Hilliary, Frances Waters, Enoch Arnold, Elizabeth Corder, Ann Arnold, Sally A. Arnold."[85]

The children of Isaac and Mary (Porter) Arnold were the following:

1. Samuel Arnold6 m. 1 Sep 1798, Becky Hitch, dau. of Christopher Hitch. Moved to KY.

2. Lewis Arnold6 (d. Oct 1816)

3. Humphrey Arnold6

*4. Elijah Arnold6 (b. 1772 Fauquier Co., VA; d. 8 Dec 1849 Lewis Co., WVA) m. 31 Mar 1814 Prudence Jackson6 (b. 25 Jan 1789 Clarksburg, Harrison Co., WVA, d. 21 Jun 1855 Weston, Lewis Co., WVA)

5. Catherine Arnold6 m. John Healey.

6. Frances Arnold6 m. 13 Dec 1810, John Waters.

7. Nancy Arnold6 m. 1821 Gustavis Nolen.

8. Elizabeth Arnold6 m. Alexander Carder.

9. Sarah "Sally" Arnold6 m. Washington Odem.

10. Charlotte Arnold6m. 19 Dec 1803 Francis Hillary.

10. Enoch Arnold6

11. Ann Arnold6 - possible child??

Humphrey Arnold4

The parents of Isaac Arnold5 were Humphrey Arnold4 (b. c1720; d. aft 4 Jul 1789 and bef Dec 1790) and Harriet Ann Smith (d. aft 1792).4 "Humphrey Arnold and Anne his wife of Fauquier County" were living in Hamilton Parish, Fauquier County, VA by April 9, 1764 as they paid five pounds yearly rent to farm 100 acres of land belonging to Colonel Richard Henry Lee of Westmoreland County, VA. "Arnolds not to make waste of timber, pay taxes, plant and keep under sufficient fence 100 good apple trees, build a dwelling house 16 feet square, build a tobacco house 24 feet long and 20 feet wide, work no more than 3 tithables and an overseer."(Deed Book 2, page 128).[81]

In Deed Book 13, page 338, 10 Jul 1792, grantors "Isaac Arnold and Mary his wife, Benjamin Arnold and Sarah his wife, George Arnold and Anna his wife, John West and Bathsheba his wife of Fauquier County and Seymour Arnold and Mary his wife, Culpeper County" sell "land in Fauquier County formerly land of Humphrey Arnold, deceased."[80]

Humphrey's daughter Jemima Arnold5 is referred to in Deed Book 9, page 426, Sept. 3, 1787. "Whereas some disputes have arisen over negro girl named Sarah which I gave to John Knowling at his intermarriage with my daughter [Jemima and John were married Oct. 20, 1785] and whereas John Knowling has sold said slave to Charles Martin --- to settle dispute I convey said slave to Charles Martin. Signed Humphrey Arnold."[82]

The children of Humphrey and Harriet Ann (Smith) Arnold were the following:[73]

*1. Isaac Arnold5 (b. 1751) m. 23 Oct 1771 in Fauquier Co. VA Mary Porter5 (b. c1753), daughter of Samuel Porter and Eve Weaver.

2. Samuel Arnold5 (b. c 1750; d. 1831) m. 5 Sep 1771, Elizabeth Wright, dau. of John Wright, Jr.

3. Benjamin Arnold5 m. Sarah "Sally" ______.

4. George Arnold5 m. Anna _______.

5. Bathsheba Arnold5 m. John West.

6. Jemima Arnold5 m. 20 Oct 1785, John Knowling.

7. Seymour Arnold5 m. 20 Oct 1785, Mary "Molly" Knowling of Culpeper Co., VA.

8. Simon Arnold5 - probably a child but no positive evidence..

9. Daughter m, Charles Martin.

Thomas Arnold3

The parents of Humphrey Arnold4 were Thomas Arnold3 (d. about 1743) and Mary _______.

The children of Thomas and Mary Arnold3 were the following:[86]

*1. Humphrey Arnold4 (d. aft 4 Jul 1789 and bef 10 Jul 1792) m. Harriet Ann Smith.4 Eldest son.

2. John Arnold4

3. James Arnold4

Isaac Arnold, Sr.2

The parents of Thomas Arnold3 were Isaac Arnold, Sr.2 (b. c1685; d. about 1758 in King George Co., VA) and Margaret Goff2, dau. of Thomas and Margaret Goff. Isaac and Margaret married in 1707.

"Isaac Arnold, [first] child of Thomas and Grace Arnold, was born in Old Rappahannock County circa 1685 and married in Richmond County to Margaret Goffe in 1707. He died in 1758 in King George County, Virginia. Apparently he led a very active life; was prominent in many County Councils and was Vestryman of the Hanover Parish Church for many years. He was appointed Church Warden in 1743. .... His wife, Margaret Goffe, presumably died about 1719, as he is recorded selling land about that date which deed his wife did not sign. This couple had nine children. In his will he mentions his second wife, Mary. This later marriage produced four more children."[87]

Note that since Richmond County, VA was formed in 1692 from Old Rappahannock County, Isaac did not necessarily move before getting married in 1707. Likewise in 1729, part of Richmond County became King George County, thirty-eight years before Isaac died.

The children of Isaac Arnold2 and Margaret Goff2, were the following:[77]

1. Isaac Arnold, Jr.3 (d. bef Oct 1770) m. Sarah ______. Eldest son.

*2. Thomas Arnold3 (d. bet 6 May 1743 and 7 Feb 1754) m. Mary ______.

3. James Arnold3 m. Sarah ________. [May be son of Isaac Arnold, Jr.3][76]

4. William Arnold3 (b. c1721 King George Co., VA; d. 1775 (Will) Spotsylvania Co., VA) m. Lydia Bell, dau. of William Bell of Spotsylvania Co., VA.

5. Benjamin Arnold3 m. Bathsheba Bell.

6. Mark Arnold3 (b. 26 Jul 1739) Youngest son. Moved to Kentucky in 1780.

7. Isabel Arnold3 m. William Rogers.

8. Sarah Arnold3 m. Mr. Moran.

The children of Isaac Arnold2 by his second wife Mary ______.

9. Dinah Arnold3 m. before 1758 Samuel Wharton, son of Samuel Wharton.

10. Elizabeth Arnold3 m. William Boon.

11. Mary Arnold3

12. Jemima (Jeminah) Arnold3 m. (1) 26 Dec 1777 John Clift; m. (2) William Arnold.

13. Susanna Arnold3 m. Thomas Goode.

In Isaac Arnold's will, dated Sept. 15 1757, he states he is from Parish of Hanover in King George County, VA. He mentions Isaac as eldest son, Thomas Goff, grandfather of his son Isaac, daughter Dianah Wharton and Samuel Wharton her now husband, son William Arnold, son Benjamin Arnold, youngest son Mark Arnold, daughter Sarah Moran, daughter Isabell Rogers, daughter Elizabeth Arnold, daughter Mary Arnold and daughter Susanna Arnold.

Thomas Arnold1

The parents of Isaac Arnold,Sr.2 were Thomas Arnold1 (b. 1649; d. aft 27 Dec 1725/6 (Will) King George Co., VA) and Grace _____1 (d. bef 2 Mar 1732/3 (Estate)). "The first tangible evidence we have found on our Thomas Arnold bears the date 13 Jan. 1679 (at which time he would have been about 30 years old.) In a deed of that date, he was listed as being a resident of Sittingbourn Parish in Rappahannock County. ".... This land was on the south side of Gingoteak Creek." (flows into the Rappahannock on the north side about 2.5 miles below Port Conway at the narrows just above Port Tobago Bay.)[84] Richmond County, VA was formed in 1692 from Old Rappahannock County and the land on which Thomas and Grace were living was then in Richmond County. Later in 1720 their plantation was in that part of Richmond County that became King George County. Therefore, Thomas' will of Dec. 27th, 1725/6 can be found in King George County, VA, Will Book A-1, page 39. [85]"

The children of Thomas Arnold1 and Grace _____1 were the following:[72]

*1. Isaac Arnold, Sr.2 (b. abt 1685; d. about 1758) m. (1) about 1707 and before 28 Feb 1708 Margaret Goff2, dau. of Thomas Goff. M. (2) Mary _______.

2. Thomas Arnold2

3. James Arnold2 (d. bef 1 Mar 1727) m. Sarah _______.

4. John Arnold2 (d. bef 1 Sep 1732) youngest son. M. Margaret _______


Porter Ancestors

Samuel Porter4

Mary Porter5's parents were Samuel Porter4 (b. 1731 Fauquier Co., VA; d. Oct 1807 in Fauquier Co., VA) and Eve Weaver4 (b. 1731 Germantown, Fauquier Co., VA), dau. of Tillman Weaver3 (b. about 1703) and Anna Elizabeth Coons3 (or Annalis Kuntze before the German was anglicized) (b. 1708 Oberfischbach Parish, Niederndorf, Germany). Samuel Porter was in the American Revolution as a private and was one of a number of prisoners sent from Quebec in exchange, 1782 [26].


Weaver Ancestors

Tillman Weaver3

The parents of Eve Weaver4 (b. 1731 Germantown, Fauquier Co., VA) were Tillman Weaver3 (b. about 1703), son of John Henry Weaver2 (b. 1667) and Anna Margaret Huttman,2 and Anna Elizabeth Coons3 (or Annalis Kuntze before the German was anglicized) (b. 1708 Oberfischbach Parish, Niederndorf, Germany).


Coons (Kuntze) Ancestors

Joseph Coons (Kuntze)2

The parents of Anna Elizabeth Coons3 (or Annalis Kuntze) were Joseph Coons (Kuntze)2 (b. 1674 Niederndorf, Germany), son of Johannes Kuntze,1 and Anna Gertrud Reinschmidt,2 dau. of Martin Reinschmidt.1 Joseph and Anna Gertrud were married 7 Feb 1704.


Jackson Ancestors

The Jackson ancestors are thoroughly discussed on pages 1 to 24 in Nancy Ann Jackson and Linda Brake Meyers' 1995 book Colonel Edward Jackson 1759-1828 Revolutionary Soldier.

George Jackson5

Prudence Jackson6 who married Elijah Arnold6 was from a prominent family of Jacksons. Her father George Jackson5 was a Captain in the Revolution and active in the politics of the Commonwealth of Virginia.

"George Jackson served with George Rogers Clark; was a prominent member of the Virginia Assembly, 1786-1790; was a member of the Virginia Constitutional Convention in 1788; and was a member of the Ohio legislature after his move westward to Zanesville, Ohio. He was influential enough to have the state capital moved from Chillicothe to Zanesville." [27]

George Jackson5 (b. 9 Jan 1757 in Cecil Co., Md.; d. 17 May 1831 in Zanesville, Muskingum Co., Ohio) "was commissioned captain in 1781 and joined General Clark's expedition against the British and Indians." [28] He married on 13 Nov 1776 Elizabeth Brake5 (b. 22 Feb 1757; d. 22 Mar 1812 Muskingum Co., Ohio) and their children are the following:[89]

1. John George Jackson6 (b. 1777; d. 1825) m. (1) 1800, Mary Payne (b. 1781; d. 1808) Mary was the sister of Dolley Payne Madison, wife of U. S. President James Madison. Mary and John were married in the White House, and their wedding is thought to have been the first to take place in the Executive Mansion. m. (2) 1810, Mary Sophia Meigs (b. 1793; d. 1863)

2. Elizabeth Jackson6 (b. 1779) m. 1798, William Means

3. Catharine (Katrana) Jackson6 (b. 1781) m. 1800, William Williams, M. D. (b. 1765; d. 1850)

4. Jacob Jackson6 (b. 1783, d. 1804)

* 5. Prudence Jackson6 (b. 25 Jan 1789; d. 21 Jan 1855 Weston, Lewis Co., WVA) m. 31 Mar 1814, Elijah Arnold6 (b. 1772; d. 8 Dec 1849 Lewis Co., WVA)

6. George Washington Jackson6 (b. 1791; d. 1876) m. 1816, Hester Taylor (b. 1799; d. 1852)

7. Sarah Jackson6 m. 1806, Daniel Kincheloe

8. Edward Brake Jackson6 (b. 1793; d. 1826) m. (1) 1812, Anna Todd; (2) 1817, Elizabeth Gibson

9. Mary Webster Jackson6 (b. 1795) m. 1817, Sylvanus Neely

10. William Lowther Jackson6 (b. 1798) m. 1820, Harriet B. Wilson

11. Thomas Jefferson Jackson6 (b. 1800; d. 1801)

After Elizabeth's death in 1812, George married 6 Nov 1814 in Muskingum Co., OH, Mrs. Nancy (Richardson) Adams (b. 18 Apr 1780, d. 11 Oct 1841) who was the widow of Armsted Adams.

George Jackson was active in the fighting of the Indians on the western Virginia frontier. McWhorter's book on Border Settlers of Western Virginia contains many thrilling episodes surrounding George Jackson and his relatives.

"The first military company at Buckhannon [now Upshur County, West Virginia] was a band of Indian spies [scouts], organized in 1779. George Jackson was Captain of this body." [29]

"While John Jackson and his son, George were returning to the Buckhannon Fort, within one half mile of the town, the Indians fired on them, but fortunately missing both. George discovered the smoke from the Indian's gun rising from behind a forked tree, prepared himself and as the Indian peeked through the crotch of the tree, Jackson fired at him. The ball struck too low in the crotch and thus glancing perhaps over the savage's head. The Jacksons then made their way with all speed to the fort, not knowing but what there were more Indians near. The horse on which George Jackson was riding took fright and ran to the fort. The horse passed out of his girth [strap around horse's body holding saddle broke] and left Jackson and his saddle lying on the ground. Fortunately, he landed safely at the fort's gate." [30]

On the 8th of March, 1782, William White in sight of Fort Buckhannon, was shot from his horse, tomahawked, scalped and lacerated in the most frightful manner by the Indians. White's companions Timothy Dorman and his wife were captured. After the killing of White and capture of the Dormans, it was resolved to abandon Fort Buckhannon. A few days after the evacuation of the fort, some of its former inmates went from Clarksburg to Buckhannon for grain which had been left there. When they came in sight, they beheld a heap of ashes where the fort had been. When attacked by Indians, the group barricaded themselves in an outhouse, near where the fort had stood. 'At night, Captain George Jackson went privately forth from the house, and at great hazard of being discovered by the waylaying savages, proceeded to Clarksburg, where he obtained such a reinforcement as enabled him to return openly and escort his former companions in danger, from the places of its existence.'" [31]

McWhorter has high praise for George Jackson.

"He [George Jackson] is mentioned by Withers [Withers' Border Warfare] on several occasions, and his memorable night run from Buckhannon to Clarksburg [more that twenty miles one way!] for assistance when some of the settlers were besieged in an out-house in 1782, was characteristic of the energy and daring courage that made him a leader among men." [32]

It was not all Indian fighting for George. There was plenty of time for leisurely pursuits. Below is McWhorter's account of the famous Skin Creek hunt which named the creek and the village of that name -- both in Lewis County, West Virginia.

"While out, the scouts [Jesse Hughes and Alexander West] had noted that the beech mast in the bottoms and the low hills about the head of Fench Creek was heavy, and that the region was full of bear. A hunt was planned by the two scouts and the colonels [Colonel George Jackson5 and Colonel William Lowther]. .... The first night they stayed at an old Indian camp, known to Hughes only, who had been there on previous occasions. Here they saw an abundance of deer, which at that time held no attraction for them. The next morning they crossed the divide to French Creek, where they found all the bear sign reported by the scouts. The ground had been scratched over for miles, such as they had never seen before; but the sign was all old, and not a bear could be found. They had evidently gone to the rough mountainous regions of the Kanawha, the Holly, and the Buckhannon for winter quarters, as very few bear wintered in the more open hills of the West Fork.

"Hughes and West desired to follow the bear, but it was necessary for Colonel Jackson to return home, and reluctantly they decided to accompany him. They recrossed the mountain and spent the night at their former camp. The deer, so unattractive the evening before, now engaged their attention, and they determined to spend the day shooting. They divided their party: Hughes and West were pitted against the two colonels. They were to hunt for a wager, the prize being all the deer skins taken. No fawns were to be counted, and if a shot failed to bring down the game it was to deduct one from the party who fired it. All bullets in the shot-pouches were counted, and these the hunter must account at the close of day. It was agreed that the two officers were to hunt below, while the scouts were to hunt above the camp."

"Everything arranged, the hunt began, and in the evening when the game was tallied and the bullets all accounted for, the score stood nineteen for Hughes and West , and twenty-one for the colonels. The next morning the game was skinned, such venison selected as was desired, and the camp broken. It was then suggested that the stream, on a branch of which they were encamped, was yet unnamed, and it was unanimously agreed that it should be called "Skin Creek," in commemoration of their remarkable hunt. As Jesse Hughes had piloted them to the camp, and to him alone was known the sylvan retreat, they called this tributary "Hughes Fork." These names they still bear." [32]

While in Buckhannon, Col. George Jackson built a mill on the river about two hundred and seventy-five paces from the fort. This mill was evidently destroyed at an early day, probably immediately after the fort was burned, or as soon as the whites completely abandoned the settlement, after Capt. White was killed in 1782. [33]

Where George Jackson and his family moved after the Buckhannon Fort burned is unknown, probably Nutter's Fort near Clarksburg. After the Indian Treaty of Greenville in 1795 which restored peace with the Indians, Col. George Jackson was the first to settle in the upper part of the West Fork Valley. He secured a large boundary of land where Jacksonville (named for him) now stands in Lewis County, West Virginia. He also secured a smaller tract at the forks of the river. [34]

John Jackson4

George Jackson's father and mother were John Jackson4 (b. 1715 Coleraine, Londonderry, Ireland; d. 25 Sep 1801 Clarksburg, WVA) and Elizabeth Cummins4 (b. 8 Jan 1720 London, England; d. 1825 Clarksburg, WVA).[89]

"John Jackson was descended from English settlers in Ireland. He was born in Coleraine, Londonderry, Ireland, and at the age of ten moved with his family to London. He emigrated to Maryland in 1748, married, and removed to Virginia in 1758 (present day Hardy County, West Virginia). He was a member of the County Court, served as an Indian spy in 1787 for Governor Henry Lee, and was a lieutenant of the militia in 1787. During the Revolutionary War, he took part in the Battle of King's Mountain. John was said to have been a spare, diminutive man, quiet, determined, courageous, and of sound judgment." [35]

"Elizabeth Cummins was a strong-willed Englishwoman from London. She was raised by a maiden aunt, who upon her death left Elizabeth one thousand pounds sterling. She set off to America with her inheritance, met and married John Jackson in Cecil County, Maryland. (The legend that she fled England after throwing a tankard of ale at a King's soldier in her aunt's tavern is a little more exciting, but has been fairly well proven to be fanciful.) She is described as being rather masculine in stature, quite intelligent, and as having a great deal of courage and strong character. She fought off Indian attacks and patented 3,000 acres of land in her own name and paid for them herself." [36]

Elizabeth Cummins is considered a Patriot of the American Revolution by the Daughters of the American Revolution (D. A. R.) as she, while her husband and sons were away, fought at Jackson's Fort. [37] Jackson's Fort has a nice ring to it, however, as pointed out by McWhorter, "Jackson's Fort [and others] were probably only strategic and strongly built dwellings or block houses, where the immediate inhabitants fled on occasion of sudden alarms, and where scouts had regular places of meeting." [ 38]

"There was a block house about three miles west of Bush's Fort, on Fink's Run .... It was built by some of the Jacksons on land now [1915] owned by Mr. Martin Reger. Prof. Maxwell refers to this building as "Jackson's Fort." History of Randolph County, West Va.., p. 414. It could hardly be termed a fort, in the sense of that word. It was only a block house, or a strongly built two-story log dwelling without a palisade; and never figured as a defensive stronghold." [39]

John Jackson4 married on 4 Jul 1755, Elizabeth Cummins.4 Their children are the following:[89]

*1. George Jackson5 (b. 9 Jan 1757 Cecil Co., MD; d. 17 May 1831 Zanesville, Ohio) m. (1) 13 Nov 1776, Elizabeth Brake5 (b. 22 Feb 1757; d. 22 Mar 1812); m. (2) 6 Nov 1814, Nancy (Richardson) Adams (b. 18 Apr 1780; d. 11 Oct 1841)

2. Col. Edward Jackson5 (b. 1 Mar 1759; d. 25 Dec 1828) m. (1) 1783, Mary Hadden (b. 1764; d. 1796) grandparents of Thomas Jonathan "Stonewall" Jackson; m. (2) 1799, Elizabeth Weatherholt Brake6 (b. 1772; d. 1835)

3. John Jackson, Jr.5 (b. 1760; d. May 1821) m. (1) 10 Apr 1786, Rebecca Haddan; m. (2) 1797, Elizabeth Cozad (b. 1779; d. 1845)

4. Elizabeth Jackson5 (b. 1762/1767; d. 1862) m. Abraham Brake,6 son of Jacob Brake,5 the captive.

5. Sophia Jackson5 (b. 11 Sep 1763; d. 10 Mar 1836) m. Josiah "Joseph" Davis (b. 9 May 1767; d. 8 Oct 1832)

6. Mary Sarah Jackson5 (b. 1768; d. c1791) m. 23 Oct 1788, Phillip Reger5 (b. 1767; d. 16 Jul 1846).

7. Samuel Jackson5 (b. 10 Dec 1772; d. 10 Jan/Jun 1842) m. 7 Nov 1793, Barbara Reger5 (b. 10 Dec 1775; d. 28 Oct 1838); Barbara was a sister to Phillip Reger5 who married Mary Sarah Jackson5

8. Henry Jackson5 (b. 10 Jul 1774; d. 24 Feb 1852) m. (1) 20 May 1800, Mary Elizabeth Hyer (b. 1784); m. (2) 24 Apr 1836, Elizabeth Shreves (b. 10 Dec 1813; d. 11 Apr 1887)

""Granny's Creek," in Braxton County, received its name when Henry Jackson commenced a [land] survey thereon and one of his hunters named Loudin, killed a buffalo cow, which was so old and tough that the men declared her to be the grandmother of all buffaloes." [40]

Some authors lists the ancestors of John Jackson4 back many generations to the Kings of England, however, since this has not been documented, I have not included it here.


Reger Ancestors

Abram Reger5

Abram Reger,5 the sixth child of Jacob Reger, Sr.,4 was born on 23 Jul 1774 Hampshire Co., VA (now Hardy Co. WVA) (d. 13 Jun 1852 Volga, Barbour Co. WVA). He also like his brother John "Hercules of the Border" was a man of large stature and great physical strength. Although quite young, he was said to have participated in the Indian battle at Buckhannon, now West Virginia. On 30 Mar 1797, he was married to Miss Mary Reeder (b. 4 Jul 1778; d. 20 Jan 1861 Burnersville, WVA), dau. of Joseph Reeder and Elizabeth Henderson, and they reared a large family of children, who were [41][94]:

1. Col. John Reger6 (b. 4 Jan 1798; d. 18 Apr 1872) m. 18 Mar 1824 Margaret McCoy (b. 21 Oct 1805; d. 21 Dec 1901). He was a Colonel of Militia in Virginia and was a skilled hunter.

2. Isaac Reger6 (b. 6 Feb 1800) m. 30 Oct 1825 Elizabeth McCoy (b. 11 Jan 1808).

*3. Elizabeth Reger6 (b. 31 Oct 1801, Harrison Co. VA (now Barbour Co. WVA); d. Sep 1887) m. 25 Feb 1819 Jonathan Strange Hall6 (b. 8 Nov 1797; d. Oct 1875 Collins Settlement, Lewis Co., WVA).

4. Jacob Reger6 (b. 15 Aug 1804; d. 12 Aug 1879?) m. 13 Apr 1826 Nancy Martin (b. 17 Apr 1808; d. 12 Jan 1891).

5. Abram Reger6 (b. 1806; d. 16 Apr 1869) m. (1) 27 Dec 1832 Jemima McCoy (b. c1804; d. 28 May 1865); m. (2) Julia (Stephenson) Arnold.

6. Rev. Hanson Reger6 (b. 10 Mar 1811) m. Nancy J. White.

7. Anthony Reger6 (b. 1812; d. 6 Aug 1904 Buckhannon, now West Virginia) m. 3 Dec 1836 Rachel Picken (b. c1820; d. 20 Aug 1865).

8. Martha Ann Reger6 (b. 10 Feb 1815; d. 19 Jul 1858) m. 1 Jan 1833 Johnson Ward.

9. Mary Ann Reger6 m. 4 Apr 1831 Anthony McDevitt.

10. Nancy Reger6 (b. 20 Feb 1817; d. 27 Sep 1909) m. 1 Sep 1836 David Hall, Jr. (b. 6 Sep 1812; d. 8 May 1887).

Abram Reger was tempted by easy money. One way for a frontier man to obtain money from the government was to lie about his involvement in the Revolutionary War and receive a pension. In 1831, an Act was passed to grant pensions to War veterans, though veterans wounded in the War received pensions before. As fifty years had passed since the War, the Federal Government had a hard time validating the claims. Many veterans were in their seventies and eighties and the most of the individuals who could vouch for them were dead. "Evidently there were then, as now scores of patriots(?) who felt no compunction in defrauding their country. ... A Mr. J. Wamsley was actively engaged in writing fraudulent declarations on contract, and usually received as compensation all the first money drawn. [$30 to $90 a year was a typical pension.] He offered to write a declaration for Abram Reger, a son of Jacob Reger, Sr., who was too young for service in the Revolutionary War; but the offer was spurned." [42]

Jacob Reger, Sr.4

"Jacob Reger[4], the principal founder of his family in western Virginia, came from Germany [really Switzerland]. He was married in his native country to Barbara Crites, and they with a few of their oldest children landed at some port in Virginia, probably about 1765, although it has been claimed that their arrival was much earlier. It is said that immediately after landing, the children complained of hunger and the mother purchased a loaf of bread at a nearby bakery. She gave them some of it, but was surprised to see them, after tasting it, throw it away. The parents then tasted it and they too threw it aside. It was their first experience with corn bread. They settled in the Shenandoah Valley, but later moved to the Wappatomaka, where they resided until the close of the Revolution. They then moved to Big Run, near the village of Burnersville in (now) Barbour County, West Virginia. [43]"

"Founder of the Reger family, [Jacob Reger4] was born in Germany and married Barbara Crities of his native County. He emigrated to America in 1765. He first located on the Eastern Shore and from there moved to what is now Moorfield and remained there until the close of the Revolutionary War. Jacob Reger was a Christian of the Lutheran Church. He brought the first Bible into what is now Union District, Barbour County."[93]

"In 1777 Jacob Reger and Sam Pringle accompanied by a number of men, journeyed into Monongahela County, Virginia, at the urgent request of George Washington. This company of men selected and marked claims, then returned and filed their claims at Richmond, Va., and received titles for the same. Jacob Reger located a claim on Second Big Run, and built a cabin in 1778. This location was one quarter of a mile East of the present village of Volga, Barbour County.

"Several of these men built cabins. Reger built a cabin but could not live on his claim for seven years owing to the hostility of the Indians. In the spring of 1780, Jacob Reger with a number of men returned to their claims and cleared and planted corn and vegetables. They cultivated and fenced their gardens and corn, then returned to Wopatomaca (now Moorfield) intending to bring their families in the early fall.

"Before starting to move, a few men returned to see how their crops had fared, only to find a herd of buffalo had passed by, broke down their fences and destroyed their corn and gardens. One man by name of White, said he would have the satisfaction of killing one for eating their crops if he had to follow them into Kentucky. And he did follow them. [It was] Three days before overtaking the herd, White killed one, took the hide and a choice cut of steak and carried it all that distance to prove he had killed one of the buffaloes.

"This disaster delayed their moving until the following Summer of 1781.

"Reger built a double log house and in building it had it so arranged that with his family, they could, in case of Indian attack, make a strong defense. The rooms were made low so an Indian could not strike overhanded with their tomahawks if they got inside of the house. A line of holes were cut in the walls in building so that an enemy could be seen in any direction. These holes were all closed by blocks made to fit into them. This cabin was built about one hundred yards from the Seneca trail.

"Reger was compelled to take refuse in Bushels Fort on two or three occasions, yet was not attacked at his home.

"Jacob Reger died, date not known, leaving a family of seven children .... One daughter married John Bozarth (Anna). In the summer of 1796 Indians attacked the Bozarth home, killing four of the family. The mother and two sons were taken away as prisoners to the Indian town on the Muskingdom River."

"It is of record that Jacob Reger went deer hunting one morning along the valley of Washrun, which was near his home. Walking about one half mile, he found a drove of deer grazing in an open glade. He killed one, throwing it across his shoulder started home. Reger walked about half way home when some impulse caused him to stop and look behind him. On turning around he was surprised to see a number of Indians running after him. Reger was a strong man so he ran for his cabin and beat the Indians to it with his load and quickly barricaded his doors, and with the assistance of some of his sons, was ready for the attack. The Indians came close to the house and could be seen until the afternoon of the second day, when they left not even driving off any of his stock."[93]

Jacob Reger4 (chr. 22 Apr 1734 Benken, Switzerland; d. 18 Nov 1786 Volga, Barbour Co., WVA) and Barbara Crites4 Reger (b. 1745/1747 Germany; d. c1811), dau. of Philip Kreutz (or Crites) (b. about 1710 Germany; d. 7 Dec 1796 Hardy Co. VA) and Isabelah Sivelo (b. 1722; d. 14 Jan 1797 Hardy Co., VA), raised a large family and their children were the following:

1. Anthony Reger5 (b c1760; d. 1806) m. Widow Susannah Simmons; Ensign in the American Revolution.

2. Jacob Reger, Jr.5 (b c1765) never married, was a scout during Indian hostilities and noted hunter.

"The famous Indian Scout was employed with John Schoolcraft by the three frontier outposts, Bushes, Beeches and Nutters Forts. It was the duty of these men to travel two Indian trails from March until the snow of early Winter drove them into the settlements. Many times they were [able] to warn the settlers that Indians were coming. No place [in] all frontier history was harried more than these three settlements."

"One morning in April, 1790, Jacob Reger, Jr., started alone on one of his long scouting trips. He went to the Ohio River over the middle trail. Finding no Indian signs, Reger turned South far down the Ohio on the Seneca trail, a distance of some sixty miles. Reger was a marvel in being able to read the forest and tell the approach of danger by the movements of birds and the movement of big game."

"One rainy morning Reger came out on the Seneca trail and was startled to find a large body of Indian warriors had just crossed the river. Muddy water was still in their tracks where they had stepped off their rafts. Reger studied the forest and the trail and presently some blue jays started a great chatter in the distance. Somebody was disturbing their part of the forest. This fact caused Reger to risk walking the trail for a few hundred yards in the hopes of determining their numbers. Studying the forest as well as the trail, on looking ahead, discovered an Indian sitting on the ground and leaning against a tree. Reger studied the warrior. Finally raising his gun to shoot him when he discovered the Indian was asleep. Then Reger decided to capture the sleeping warrior, or at least make the attempt. Quickly leaving the trail, Reger walked around the tree, some distance away, then approached the tree as noiseless as a shadow and sprang on the sleeping warrior and quickly subdued him. Then he stood over the warrior with uplifted tomahawk and pointing to the trail, Reger said, "Tell me where those warriors are going, and for what purpose, and I will spare your life. If you do not, your scalp will hang in my belt." The Indian could talk a little English and said, "We go to kill all the settlers at Bushes and Beeches Forts and the settlers along the river, we kill them all.""

"This certainly was information. Reger stood the warrior on his feet, then led him to the bank of the Ohio, and pointing to the West bank, said, "Now you swim the river." The warrior quickly plunged into the mighty current and did swim to the West bank. Reger (kept) standing on the East bank until the warrior crossed to the West but maturing his plan to defeat the war party. If a massacre was to be prevented, it was up to Reger to beat the Indians to the settlements by at least half of a day. There was but one way to do it. Reger was giant in stature, standing six foot and three inches in his moccasins, and a giant in physical strength and famous for his ability to run. Reger started on this long trip of one hundred and fifty miles, making a wide detour so as to avoid any hunters from the war party. Reger ran the remainder of that day until finally night settled over the forest. But no stopping. In the early part of the night, Reger turned onto the Seneca Trail where he could travel much faster. Reger ran the entire night, over hills and across valleys, as tireless as a wolf. Four rivers crossed his route, all at high water, besides numerous creeks, all out of banks. Reger swam the Elk, Hughs, Sandy and Westfork rivers. He was encouraged by one fact, the Indians were now behind, with an open trail before him. The following morning found Reger tired, but not exhausted, with the nearest fort many miles away. Reger said he trotted up hill and ran down hill and on the level, and kept the tireless gait until three P. M. the second day, when he arrived at Beeches fort exhausted. Reger delivered his message. Fast runners hurried around the country, until all settlers were ordered to hurry to the forts. By ten P. M. at night all families were in."

"Captain Hughs, an experienced military man, was at Nutters Fort. Captain Hughs (and) the young men at Nutters Fort had set out for Beeches Fort arriving at midnight, where he was met by Cottrill Talbot with all the men that could be spared from Bushes Fort. During the night Captain Hughs and Cottrill Talbot organized this small force into a fighting body. The following morning at four A. M. the gates of Beeches Fort was opened and Hughs and Talbot marched out at the head of the small, but fearless body of men to meet a much larger force of the enemy. Sending five scouts two or three miles ahead to discover the Indians, Hughs traveled West on the Seneca Trail, finally coming to the Westfork river and crossed this stream. This valley was covered with thick thickets and many large trees. The Seneca Trail approached this valley over level ground. Captain Hughs remarked to Talbot, "Here is the place to meet a superior force of the enemy." However, they marched on for a mile or more when the five scouts returned running with all possible speed and reported the Indians a mile South-west, a large force and running. Hughs gave the command to fall back to Bushy Run, (Westfork Valley) where Hughs and Talbot placed their men in a strong position across the Seneca Trail, with orders not to fire until Hughs gave the command. Hughs had just got his men in position when the Indians appeared in a large force, and running rapidly towards the concealed position of the Whites. As the Indians approached, Hughs gave the command to fire. Instantly, the Indian line was swept by a decimating volley from rifle men that never missed. Many Indians fell from the first volley. The Indians now took refuge behind trees and logs, but open woods all around them. The Indians had the advantage in numbers. Hughs had the advantage in position for his men were not visible. Then commenced a battle that raged for three hours in which no quarter was given and none was asked. Indian strategy pitted against the Whites. Many times the Indians tried flank moves, first to the right then to the left. Cottrill Talbot had command of the right wing, Hughs on the left. Every flank move was met by death dealing volleys that was rapidly thinning the Indian line. Captain Hughs was familiar with the Seneca language so he understood some commands given by their Chief, which was greatly to his advantage. No battle on frontier history was fought with such relentless fury and dogged determination. Retreat meant disaster for Hughs and his small force, and every man in his command knew it. Their homes and friends behind [them], they had to defeat the Indians. The Indian Chief checked on every move, at last in desperation, he called to some warriors near him to follow. The moment the chief stepped from the shelter of a tree, he was instantly killed. A warrior rushed from behind a tree and attempted to pick up the body of the their chief, but was instantly killed. Four more warriors rushed forward, but all were killed over the body of their chief. The Indian line now showed signs of a panic. The little army greatly encouraged though still cautious, increased their firing and raised one mighty cheer that echoed along the hills and valley of the Westfork. That was the finish. The Indians fled leaving their dead behind."

"But for Jacob Reger's achievement, a massacre would have left the three settlements a smoking ruin. An achievement that had no parallel in all border history. A man that had the physical strength and endurance to run for more than twenty-four hours, across hills and valleys and swim four rivers without food or rest, certainly received strength from the Divine Providence."

"In 1797, Jacob Reger went to Fort Washington where he remained for some time. One morning he left the fort with his gun across his shoulder and entered the forest near the fort and was never seen or heard of afterwards."[93]

3. Philip Reger5 (b. 1767 in Hampshire County, VA; d. 1846) m. (1) 1788, Mary Sarah Jackson,5 (2) Mary Jane Bozarth; (3) Rachel Vandeventer; private in Revolution; "....was one of the appointed trustees for Buckhannon when the village was created a town in 1816. He was first Sheriff of Lewis County, and was a Justice of the Peace for forty years."[44]

4. John Reger5 (b. 15 Jan 1769 in Hardy County, Va., d. 14 May 1849) m. 1788, Elizabeth West; John was known as "The Hercules of the Border."

"He stood six feet two inches in his moccasins, with well-rounded and muscular proportions. A veritable Hercules, he was renowned for his enormous physical strength, which was unequaled on the western [Virginia] frontier. He married Elizabeth West, "Little Bettie," as she was called, a daughter of Edmund West, Sr., of West's Fort. The wedding took place the year after the bride's father was killed by the Indians, December 5, 1787. At the ceremony the bride sported a "store gown" to procure which the bridegroom-elect walked from the Buckhannon settlement to Winchester [Va.] and back with rifle on shoulder. During the wedding festivities, the bride stood in midair on the groom's outstretched hand. The newly-wedded couple settled near where Burnersville (Barbour County, West Virginia) now stands, where they resided as long as they lived."

"John Reger's nature was as kindly as his physical strength was great. I cannot refrain from giving a few incidents in his career on the border, illustrative of the rude, happy-go-luck of those days. He could easily swim the flood-swollen rivers in his excursions, holding his gun, shot pouch and clothing high and dry in one hand. He was a noted hunter and many are the accounts of his daring feats and great endurance. On one of his hunting trips, he killed a yearling bear early in the morning and after taking out the entrails, he slung the carcass over his shoulder and carried it with him during the entire day's hunt." [45]

"The following incident is related of Reger, and it illustrates his good humor and gigantic strength. .... It was Reger's eighty-second birthday, and as they were returning to the field from dinner, Black and Reger's son, both large strong men, thought to take advantages of the old man, and "wallow" him. Slipping up, each caught hold of a leg, then throwing him and whirling him upon his back, both immediately sprang on him, one on either side, with arms tightly hugging the old man's shoulders. For a moment Reger lay surprised, and occasionally ejaculating, "Poys, you had better let me be," at the same time feeling for a secure hold in the waistbands of their strong homespun pantaloons. Having secured a satisfactory hold on each, he slowly lifted them from him, swung them in mid-air, cracked their heels together, then jammed their heads together a few times and cast them from him, and laughing, rose to his feet."[46][94]

5. Elizabeth Reger5 (b. c1770; d. 1847) m . (1) Cottrell Talbot; (2) Christian Thomas Hall; (3) James Womsley.

*6. Abram Reger5 (b. 23 Jul 1774 Hampshire Co., VA (now Hardy Co. WVA); d. 13 Jun 1852 Volga, Barbour Co., WVA) m. 30 Mar 1797 Mary Reeder (b. 4 Jul 1778; d. 20 Jan 1861 Burnersville, WVA)

7. Barbara Reger5 (b. 1775, d. 1838) m. 1793, Samuel Jackson3 (b. 1772, d. 1842)

8. Mary Reger5 (b. 1777; d. 1838) m. George Bozarth, brother to John who married Ann Reger

9. Ann Reger5 (b. 1780; d. 1849) m. John Bozarth

10. Isaac Reger5 (b. 19 Aug 1782; d. 1851) m. Mary Magdaline Brake6, daughter of Jacob Brake,5 the Indian Captive.

11. Catherine Reger5 (b. 1784; d. 1864) m. Stephen Martin,6 son of Ann (Hitt)5 Martin Strange Hall.

Jacob Reger, Sr.4 was a good friend and close neighbor of Joseph Hall.5 He often went hunting with Joseph. [47]

Notice that the Regers, the Brakes, the Halls and the Jacksons intermarried quite heavily probably due to the sparsely settled western Virginia frontier.

Anthoni Rieger3

The parents of Jacob Reger, Sr.4 were Anthoni Rieger3 (20 May 1690; d. 1770 Hardy Co., WVA) and Barbara (Wintz) Schaub.3 The children of Anthoni Reger, Sr.3 and Barbara (Wintz) Schaub3 were the following:

*1. Jacob Reger4 (b. c1730 Benken, Switzerland; d. 18 Nov 1786 Volga, Barbour Co., WVA) m. Barabara Crites4 Reger (b. 1745/1747 Germany; d. c1811).

2. John Reger4 (b. 1735)

Hans Jacob Rueger2

The parents of Anthoni Rieger, Sr.3 (chr. 12 Jul 1651) were Hans Jacob Rueger2 (b. c 1651) and Elizabeth Ritter2 (b. 13 Jul 1662). Hans Jacob and Elizabeth were married 12 Aug 1678.


Brake Ancestors

The Brake ancestors are thoroughly discussed on pages 34 to 70 in Nancy Ann Jackson and Linda Brake Meyers' 1995 book Colonel Edward Jackson 1759-1828 Revolutionary Soldier.

Johan Jacob Brake4, Jr. (also referred to as John, the Baron)

"John Brake,[4] who during the Revolution resided about fifteen miles from Moorefield [Virginia (now Hardy Co., WVA)] on the Wappatomaka, was a German nobleman, a baron, who migrated from Germany several years prior to the breaking out of the American Revolution. He was the first of the Brake family in Virginia."

"The German element in the Colonies in general espoused the cause of freedom, but the baron remained loyal to King George and during the latter years of the war, became noted for his zeal and energy in the Tory cause. There is a tradition that the baron received from King George a royal grant for a tract of land lying along the Wappatomaka where he lived, and that this, coupled with his love for royalty, was the main or real reason for his loyalty to the British Crown. It will be remembered that King George was of German descent, and would naturally feel well-disposed towards this German nobleman [48]."

"There is a tradition which says that sometime after the suppression of the Brake-Claypole uprising, the baron, smarting from the humiliating indignities which he had suffered at the hands of his enemies, defiantly raised a large British flag over his castle-like residence. He was ordered by the Continental troops to haul it down, but with the tenacity of purpose which has made the German race famous, he refused. The troops tore it down and destroyed it. Another version is, that when the baron refused to haul the colors down, the troops destroyed his buildings and laid his fine estate in ruins. However, this may be, the episode of the flag did occur, and with the sequel, that the baron soon afterwards went back to his native country, never to return to America [49]."

Johan Jacob Brake4 (b. c 1725/1730 Germany; d. c1808/1809 Moorefield, Hardy Co. WVA) married (1) c1750 Maria Elizabeth Kieffer/Cooper (b. 6 Oct 1730 Oberacker, Karlsruhe, Germany; d. c1763/1765 Hampshire Co., VA now Hardy Co., WVA, killed by Indians), dau. of Hans Jacob and Anna Maria (Dellinger) Kieffer. M. (2) before 1779 Catherine Stump (b. c1742; d. 31 Mar 1815/1816), dau. of Michael and Anna Catherine (Neff) Stump.[90]

Johan Jacob Brake4 and Maria Elizabeth Kieffer/Cooper had six children:[90]

1. Mary Magdalin Brake5 (b. c 1750 Frederick Co., VA; d. Muskingum Co. Ohio) m. (1) John Stump. M. (2) John Reger.

2. Jacob Brake,5 the captive (b. c 1753/1754 Frederick Co. VA; d. 1831 Lewis now Upshur Co., WVA) m. Mary Slaughter. Jacob was captured by the Indians on the Wappatomaka when eleven years old, and remained in captivity ten years and ten months [50].

3. John Brake,5 Jr. (b. 15 Jun 1754 Frederick Co. VA; d. 4 Nov 1838 Jackson's Mill, Lewis Co., WVA) m. (1) 11 Jan 1778 Elizabeth Wetherholt had one daughter Elizabeth who married Col. Edward Jackson5 (grandfather of Stonewall Jackson); m. (2) c1784 Catherine Shook.

*4. Elizabeth Brake5 (b. 22 Feb 1757; d. 22 Mar 1812) m. 13 Nov 1776 Captain George Jackson5 (b. 9 Jan 1757 Cecil Co., MD; d. 17 May 1831 Zaneville, OH), the oldest son of John Jackson and Elizabeth Cummins.

5. Isaac Brake5 (b. c 1760/1764 Hampshire Co. VA (now Hardy Co., WVA); d. c 1833/1834 Union Co., Ohio) m. c 1789 Roseanna Almon (d. c 1826 Union Co., Ohio).

6. Abraham Brake5 (b. Aug 1763 Hampshire now Hardy Co., WVA; d. 20 Aug 1842 Harrison Co., WVA) m. c1784 Elizabeth Jackson,5 dau. of John and Elizabeth Jackson.4

Their mother Maria Elizabeth Kieffer was killed on the Wappatomaka by Indians in about 1764 [51][91].

The children of Johan Jacob Brake4 and Catherine Stump were:

1. Michael Brake (c1779 Hampshire now Hardy Co., WVA; d. 17 Apr 1861 Hardy Co. WVA) m. 22 May 1803 Elizabeth Dasher, dau. of Christian Dasher, Jr.

Johan Jacob Brake,3 Sr.

The parents of Johan Jacob Brake,4 Jr. were Johan Jacob Brake,3 Sr. (b. Germany; d. bef. 1 Jun 1760 Frederick Co. VA) and Mary Margaret _____ (d. aft. 1762). Their children were:

*1. Johan Jacob Brake4 (b. c 1725/1730 Germany; d. c1808/1809 Moorefield, Hardy Co., WVA) married (1) c1750 Maria Elizabeth Kieffer/Cooper (b. 6 Oct 1730 Oberacker, Karlsruhe, Germany; d. c1763/1765 Hampshire Co., VA now Hardy Co., WVA, killed by Indians), dau. of Hans Jacob and Anna Maria (Dellinger) Kieffer. M. (2) before 1779 Catherine Stump (b. c1742; d. 31 Mar 1815/1816), dau. of Michael and Anna Catherine (Neff) Stump.

2. Martin Brake (b. Germany) returned to Germany.

3. Elizabeth Brake4 m. Mr. House.

4. Catherine Brake4 m. Mr. Gryder.

5. Margaret Brake4 m. John Batchelder.


Notes

1. Conversation with Gordon T. Hall,9 son of George William Hall,8 May 24, 1988.

2. The move must be after March 14, 1886 and before 1902, as John E. Hall8 was ordained an Elder that day in Ebenezer Church, Poplar Flat, Kentucky. Church records dated Aug. 20, 1904, state "having removed to West VA + over two yrs. his name dropped for [part missing]."

3. John Lonnie Hall10 relates that this is what his dad, Charles9 told him.

4. Conversation with Gordon T. Hall,9 May 24, 1988.

5. Conversation, April 3, 1988 with Mary Ellen Hall10 Hyde, daughter of Charles and Margaret Hall.

6. Conversation with John L. Hall,10 June 11, 1988.

7. Conversation with John L. Hall,10 June 11, 1988.

8. Confirmed by 1950's photo of Charles.

9. Mary Ellen Hall10 Hyde says this railroad accident happened when she was a young child in the late 1920's.

10. Conversation, June 12, 1988 with Nancy Ellen Hyde11 Seyfried, daughter of Mary Ellen Hall10 Hyde.

11. Based on incident in Dan Hyde11's (compiler) childhood.

12. Conversation with Mary Ellen Hall10 Hyde, April 3, 1988.

13. Mary Ellen Hall10 Hyde, June 12, 1988, and postcard dated July 22, 1936 from a Sam Phillips, Peakes Turnout, Va.

14. Conversation with Mary Ellen Hall10 Hyde, June 12, 1988.

15. Conversation with John Lonnie Hall,10 June 9, 1988.

16. Gordon T. Hall9 says his grandfather Joseph Hall7 had a brother Strange Hall.7

17. A History of Lewis County, West Virginia, by Edward C. Smith, 1920, pages 270-271.

18. Border Settlers of Northwestern Virginia 1768 to 1785, by Lucullus Virgil McWhorter, 1915, reprinted by Jim Comstock, Richwood, West Virginia, 1974, as part of The West Virginia Heritage Encyclopedia, page 181.

19. McWhorter, page 181.

20. 1850 Census and Vandalia Cemetery, Lewis County, Virginia records.

21. The Methodist Protestant Church in West Virginia, by Rev. I. A. Barnes, 1926, The Stockton Press, page 37.

22. McWhorter, pages 184-185.

23. McWhorter, page 189.

24. The Genealogies of the Jackson, Junkin & Morrison Families complied by Michael I. Shoop, 1981, published by the Garland Gray Memorial Research Center, Stonewall Jackson House, Historic Lexington Foundation, Lexington, VA., page 155.

25. History of Roanoke Community, Lewis County, West Virginia, prepared by Roy Bird Cook, 1924, published by the Agricultural Extension Division, Morgantown, W. VA., page 14.

26. Daughters of the American Revolution (D. A. R.) Lineage Book Vol. 67, 66501, page 187.

27. Shoop, page 155.

28. D. A. R. Lineage Book Vol. 67, 66501, page 187.

29. McWhorter, page 177.

30. This paragraph was cleaned up for punctuation and spelling and slightly altered for the modern reader. It is from a letter by Henry F. Westfall, dated February 24, 1849. In McWhorter, page 360.

31. Chronicles of Border Warfare or a History of the Settlement by the Whites of North-Western Virginia: and of the Indian Wars and Massacres, Alexander Scott Withers, 1831, later edition 1895 by Steward and Kidd Publishers, Cincinnati, quoted in McWhorter, page 498.

32. McWhorter, page 180.

33. McWhorter, page 170.

34. McWhorter, page 183.

35. Shoop, page 155.

36. Shoop, page 155.

37. D. A. R. Lineage Book Vol. 48, 47615, page 287.

38. McWhorter, page 479.

39. McWhorter, page 445.

40. McWhorter, page 382.

41. McWhorter, page 304.

42. McWhorter, page 505.

43. McWhorter, page 296.

44. McWhorter, page 298.

45. McWhorter, page 299.

46. McWhorter, page 303.

47. McWhorter, page 188.

48. McWhorter, pages 310-311.

49. McWhorter, page 312.

50. McWhorter, page 309.

51. McWhorter, page 309.

52. Reported in Jackson Brigade Express Newsletter, Vol. 4, No. 3, May 1996, pages 15-16.

53. Reported in Jackson Brigade Express Newsletter, Vol. 4, No. 3, May 1996, page 16.

54. Reported in Jackson Brigade Express Newsletter, Vol. 4, No. 3, May 1996, page 14.

55. Reported in Jackson Brigade Express Newsletter, Vol. 4, No. 3, May 1996, page 14.

56. Reported in Jackson Brigade Express Newsletter, Vol. 4, No. 3, May 1996, pages 14-15.

56. Jackson Brigade Express Newsletter, Vol. 4, No. 3, May 1996, page 15.

57. "Notes on Hall Family History" by William Smith O'Brien from dictation by his uncle John Strange Hall, page 2, found in Hacker Creek Pioneer Descendants (HCPD) Library, Jackson Mills, Lewis Co., WVA. On the cover in hand writing, Perry Emmett O'Brien is given credit for compiling the material. Therefore, we suspect it was updated by Perry later.

58. William Smith O'Brien, page 2.

59. William Smith O'Brien, page 2.

60. Colonel Edward Jackson 1759-1828 Revolutionary Soldier, by Nancy Ann Jackson and Linda Brake Meyers, Genealogy Publishing Service, Franklin, NC, 1995, page 693.

61. William Smith O'Brien, page 2.

62. Document about John Jackson and descendants originally written by Col. Jackson Arnold and added to by Mary Prudence (McClellan) O'Hara and possibly others, page 32. Found in HCPD Library. Good source on children and grandchildren of Elijah and Prudence (Jackson) Arnold.

63. Document about John Jackson and descendants originally written by Col. Jackson Arnold and added to by Mary Prudence (McClellan) O'Hara and possibly others, page 38. Found in HCPD Library.

64. Conversation with Mary Ellen Hall10 on Nov. 22, 1995.

65. Lewis Co., WVA Deaths 1906-1929, Vol. III, page 60. In HCPD Library.

66. Lewis County in the Civil War 1861-1865, by Roy Bird Cook, 1924. In HCPD Library.

67. Lewis Co., WVA Deaths 1855-1886, Vol. I, page 94. In HCPD Library.

68. Marriage Bonds of Lewis Co., WVA, 1816-1865, page 131. In HCPD Library.

69. Marriage Bonds of Lewis Co., WVA, 1816-1865, page 72. In HCPD Library.

70 "Abraham Reger" manuscript compiled by Ada Lea Fitz. In HCPD Library.

71. Marriage Bonds Lewis Co., WVA 1816-1865, page 69. In HCPD Library.

72. "The Arnold Family Association of the South" newsletter, Vol. IV, No. 1, Fall 1973, pages 105 and 107.

73. "The Arnold Family Association of the South" newsletter, Vol. IV, No. 1, Fall 1973, page 107.

74. Document about John Jackson and descendants originally written by Col. Jackson Arnold and added to by Mary Prudence (McClellan) O'Hara and possibly others, pages 36-37. Found in HCPD Library.

75. Document about John Jackson and descendants originally written by Col. Jackson Arnold and added to by Mary Prudence (McClellan) O'Hara and possibly others, pages 32-34. Found in HCPD Library.

76. "The Arnold Family Association of the South" newsletter, Vol. IV, No. 1, Fall 1973, page 107.

77. "The Arnold Family Association of the South" newsletter, Vol. IV, No. 1, Fall 1973, pages 107 and 108.

78. Fauquier Co., VA Deed Abstracts (1758-1820), abstracted by Darlene Hunter, May 1980. In "The Arnold Family Association of the South" newsletter, Vol. 13, 1983, page 117. Found in West Virginia State Archives and History Library, Charleston.

79. Fauquier Co., VA Deed Abstracts (1758-1820), page 116.

80. Fauquier Co., VA Deed Abstracts (1758-1820), page 119.

81. Fauquier Co., VA Deed Abstracts (1758-1820), page 114.

82. Fauquier Co., VA Deed Abstracts (1758-1820), page 117.

83. Fauquier Co., VA Deed Abstracts (1758-1820), page 119.

84. "The Arnold Family Association of the South" newsletter, Vol. 11, 1981, pages 56-57. Found in West Virginia State Archives and History Library, Charleston.

85. King George County, VA Will Book A-1, page 39. In "The Arnold Family Association of the South" newsletter, Vol. 11, 1981, page 59. Found in West Virginia State Archives and History Library, Charleston.

86. "The Arnold Family Association of the South" newsletter, Vol. IV, No. 1, Fall 1973, page 101. Found in West Virginia State Archives and History Library, Charleston.

87. "The Arnold Family Association of the South" newsletter, Vol. IV, No. 1, Fall 1973, page 102. Found in West Virginia State Archives and History Library, Charleston.

88. Hacker's Creek Journal, Vol. XIV, issue 4, 1995-1996, page 182. This may not be the wife of Jonathan Strange Hall as several John Halls lived in the area.

89. Colonel Edward Jackson 1759-1828 Revolutionary Soldier, by Nancy Ann Jackson and Linda Brake Meyers, Genealogy Publishing Service, Franklin, NC, 1995, page 14.

90. Colonel Edward Jackson 1759-1828 Revolutionary Soldier, by Nancy Ann Jackson and Linda Brake Meyers, Genealogy Publishing Service, Franklin, NC, 1995, page 54.

91. Colonel Edward Jackson 1759-1828 Revolutionary Soldier, by Nancy Ann Jackson and Linda Brake Meyers, Genealogy Publishing Service, Franklin, NC, 1995, page 39.

92. Brake Bugle, Vol. 8, No. 1, Winter 1996, page 10.

93. "A Genealogical History of the Talbot, Hall, Reger, Martin Families of Barbour County, West Virginia 1780-1880," by Columbus C. Talbot. Found in HCPD Library.

94. Notes from Ada Lea Fitz.


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