William Durie

William Durie, son of George Durie and Mary Elisabeth Taylor, was born on November 20, 1820, in Inveresk and Musselburgh, Scotland. He was the oldest of six children: William Durie, James Durie, Agnes Durie, Elizabeth Durie, John Durie, and Robert Durie. William is my husband’s 3rd great uncle, with their nearest common relatives being his parents—my husband’s 3rd great grandparents.

William was baptized on Christmas Eve 1820, at Inveresk and Musselburgh. At the time, his father was employed as a weaver.

1821 Scotland birth register

On February 13, 1837, William was registered as a private by Sergeant David Henderson with the 72nd Regiment of Foot (The Duke of Albany’s Own Highlanders) in Edinburgh, Scotland, under age as a boy. He was just 14 years and 9 months old and living in Inveresk. Because he was below the standard age for enlistment, his case was forwarded to the Horse Guards for review. An extract from a letter dated February 20, 1837, shows that Lord Hill, Commander‑in‑Chief of the British Army, approved his enlistment, noting that William was “of a very promising description.” His age meant he entered in a non‑combat role, with the expectation of becoming a full soldier at 18.

Extract of a letter from the Horse Guards, February 20, 1837

William had a fair complexion and grey eyes. His hair was described as flaxen—a pale blond shade often seen among Highland recruits. At nearly 15, he stood 5 feet 5¼ inches tall, noticeably above average for boys his age in 1830s Scotland. Before enlistment, William’s trade was recorded as grocer.

William (bottom line) in the Edinburgh, Scotland Army Attestation Register

Although vaccinated as an infant in 1823, William contracted a mild form of smallpox in April 1837, shortly after his enlistment. The illness left no lasting effects, though the small vaccination mark on his arm remained.

During his time in the military, William served eight years and five months abroad, including one year and two months at the Cape of Good Hope, three years and two months at Gibraltar, three years and four months in the West Indies, and nine months in North America (Canada). William received Good Conduct Pay beginning in April 1847, but it was withdrawn in January 1849, likely due to a disciplinary infraction.

William would have worn an interesting uniform during his military career. Between 1837 and 1853, the 72nd Regiment wore a red jacket, trews (tight‑fitting tartan trousers), a Highland bonnet, and the usual soldier’s gear. The tartan used for their trews during this period was the Prince Charles Edward Stuart pattern—a bright, distinctive sett of reds and blues that the regiment adopted when it regained its Highland status in the early 19th century. It gave the unit a recognizable Highland appearance and remained the standard trews tartan throughout William’s years of service. You can see an example of the uniform here. 

Although the 72nd Regiment was stationed across the British Empire during William’s years of service, these were peacetime postings rather than wartime campaigns.

I have not located William in any of Scotland’s census records, likely due to his early entry into the military and long periods stationed abroad.

In the spring of 1852, William fractured his left ankle when his foot was accidentally stuck between the bars of his bedstead in Barbados. He was not on duty when the fracture occurred. A doctor examined him in early September and determined that he was unable to march any considerable distance and that his left ankle would not be able to bear fatigue. His discharge was approved on September 28, and he completed the formal process at the military depot in Chatham, the usual point where unfit soldiers were examined and released from service. At the time of his discharge, William was 31 years old and had served 12 years and 131 days.

 

UK, Royal Hospital Chelsea Pensioner Admission and Discharge Records

In September 1852, William was admitted to the Royal Hospital Chelsea pension rolls as a former soldier of the 72nd Regiment of Foot. At the time, he was living in the 2nd Glasgow District, likely having settled there after discharge. His pension was temporary—scheduled to last 29 weeks into 1853—and payments began on October 20. The limited term was tied to the ankle injury that led to his discharge. He remained on the rolls until his death the following spring.

UK, Royal Hospital Chelsea Returns of Payment of Army and Other Pensions

UK, Royal Hospital Chelsea Register

William died on April 8, 1853, at the age of 32, and was buried at Sandymount Cemetery in Glasgow. The cemetery burial register identified him as a pensioner of the 72nd Regiment. The entry lists his father, George Durie of 230 Holm Street, as the individual responsible for arranging the interment, and the burial order was placed the same day William died. His cause of death was recorded simply as “lungs,” a common shorthand for pulmonary disease such as tuberculosis or chronic respiratory illness. William’s funeral took place on April 12 at 3 p.m., and he was buried in Lair No. 56, a plot owned not by the Durie family but by N. W. Bell. The nature of the relationship between the Durie and Bell families is unknown. The burial was classified as Class No. 20, a modest category within the cemetery’s fee structure, with interment costs recorded as 7 shillings and 6 pence.

Sandymount Cemetery Burial Register

 When I started my research to write a sketch for James Durie, William’s brother, I knew almost nothing about William. I discovered his burial entry during that work. The register contained the names George and William Durie, both of which I was already researching for James’s sketch. The deceased man was listed as William Durie, son of George Durie of 230 Holm Street—a familiar address from past research. Although I have not yet located William in any Scottish census, the 1851 census shows his parents and several siblings living at that same address. This confirmed that the William in the burial register was indeed the son of George Durie and the brother of James. The notation that William was a pensioner of the 72nd Regiment also provided a valuable clue, allowing me to locate his military records and further document his life. William never married and had no children.

William’s signature

References

• 72nd Regiment of Foot (The Duke of Albany’s Own Highlanders), National Army Museum; https://www.nam.ac.uk/explore/72nd-regiment-foot-duke-albanys-own-highlanders. 
• Agnes Durie, Census 622/87/2, National Records of Scotland, 1851.
• Glasgow, Scotland, Burial Records 1850–1854, images 207–208, FamilySearch.
• William Durie, Edinburgh, Scotland, Army Attestation Registers, 1796–1857.
• William Durie, Old Parish Registers Births 689/Inveresk and Musselburgh, National Records of Scotland, 1821.
• William Durie, UK, Royal Hospital Chelsea Pensioner Admissions and Discharges, 1715–1925.
• William Durie, UK, Royal Hospital Chelsea Returns of Payment of Army and Other Pensions, 1842-1883
• William Durrie, UK, Royal Hospital Chelsea Pensioner Service Records, 1760–1925.
• Wm. Durie, UK, Royal Hospital Chelsea Admission Books, Registers and Papers, 1702–1980. 

William Tuggle’s will: 30 enslaved named

This post is part of an ongoing project to record names of enslaved people of Greene County, Georgia I find in historical records. 

William Tuggle’s Will

Georgia, Greene County. The last Will and Testament of William Tuggle of the county and state aforesaid. Knowing that in a few years I must depart this life, and it prudent and proper while I am sound in body and mind to make a disposition of my property, I do therefore dispose of the same as follows:

Item 1st. It is my will and desire that immediately after my death my Executor do cause my just debts to be paid.

Item 2nd. Feeling anxious to make a suitable and comfortable home for my much esteemed and cherished wife, Ann Tuggle, I do therefore give unto her absolutely and forever, to dispose of as she shall choose, the following negroes (viz.): Emily and her children and their increase; Mary and her children and their increase; Lee, Annica and Amanda and their increase; Hampton, Hall, Greene, Joe, and Little John. I also give to her during her natural life a negro man named Lewis and at her death to my daughter Martha Culbreath. I also give to her during her natural life the following named property (viz.): all of my household and kitchen furniture, six mules, one yoke of oxen, one cart, one two horse wagon and harness, one half of the hogs, one half of the cattle, and one half of the sheep, plantation tools, cotton gin, and threshing machine, and at her death to be sold and the money to be divided between my son William Tuggle and my son Pinckney J. Tuggle, my son William Tuggle to have two thirds of the money and my son Pinckney J. Tuggle to have the remaining one third. I also give to her during her natural life the tract of land whereon I now live, containing eleven hundred acres, more or less; and after the death of my wife, I give said tract of land to my son William Tuggle, his heirs and assigns forever. I also give to my said wife two hundred barrels of corn, fifteen single stacks of fodder, six single stacks of oats, and all the wheat that may be on hand at my death.

Item 3rd. I give to my daughter Martha Culbreath the following negroes (viz.): Chainey and her children and their future increase; men Alfred and poor Henry.

Item 4th. In addition to what I have already given her; I give to my daughter Eliza Hatchett one negro man named Isaac.

Item 5th. In addition to what I have already given him, I give unto my son William Tuggle, his heirs and assigns, my tract of land known as the Watson tract, adjoining William Daniel, John Mitchell, and the copper mine tract of land containing one hundred and twelve acres more or less. Also the Joel Mercer tract of land containing one hundred and six acres, more or less, adjoining Watson tract, lands of the estate of V. R. Thornton deceased, the copper mine tract, and others. Also Little Isham, Long Henry, Jefferson, Charles (Susan’s child), and eleven shares in the Georgia Railroad and Banking Company. I also give to my son William Tuggle, his heirs and assigns, one black mare, one sorrel mare and her colt, and one sorrel horse named Charley.

Item 6th. I give and bequeath unto my daughter Mary Dendy six hundred dollars.

Item 7th. I give and bequeath unto my grandson William Augustus Battle in trust for and for the sole and separate use of my daughter Sidney Battle, two negro men: Sparks and Phil. I also give to my daughter Sidney Battle the power and right to dispose of above negroes by will or otherwise.

Item 8th. I give and bequeath unto my grandson William B. Tuggle, the child of my son Little Berry Tuggle, four hundred dollars.

Item 9th. I give and bequeath unto my son Pinckney J. Tuggle, in addition to what he has already received, the tract of land whereon he now lives, containing four hundred acres, more or less, and adjoining Armstrong and others. I also give him all the fifas that have been transferred to me against him which may be found in my possession at my death. Also three negro men: Jordan, Pinter, Johnson, and Yellow John.

Item 10th. I give and bequeath unto my granddaughter Ann Arteretia Reynolds eight hundred dollars.

Item 11th. It is my wish and desire that the following named old negroes have the privilege of choosing their master or mistress among my children (viz.): Jack, Lucy, Phebe, Isham the blacksmith, and Peter.

Item 12th. All property which I have or may have at the time of my death not otherwise disposed of in this my will, I give and bequeath unto my son William Tuggle, his heirs and assigns, and my son Pinckney J. Tuggle, his heirs and assigns. The above items of property are to be sold or divided as my Executor may think best and my son William Tuggle to have two thirds and my son Pinckney to have the remaining one third.

Lastly, I hereby nominate my son William Tuggle Executor to carry into execution this my last will and testament.

In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this the twenty fourth day of June in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and fifty-eight.

William Tuggle

Signed, sealed, and executed in our presence, and we subscribe in the presence of each other. Test. Cordial N. Daniel, Hugh C. Mitchell, Thomas R. Thornton, William A. Overton

Georgia, Greene County. Court of Ordinary, May Term 1861. Personally came into open Court, Hugh Mitchell, Thomas R. Thornton, and William A. Overton, three of the subscribing witnesses to the within and foregoing last Will and Testament of William Tuggle, late of this county, deceased, who upon oath say they saw him, said William Tuggle, sign, seal and heard him declare the same as his last Will and Testament, freely, voluntarily, and of his own accord, and without any compulsion whatever, that at the time of the execution of said Will, said William Tuggle, the Testator, was of sound and disposing mind and memory; the deponents, together with Cordial N. Daniel, signed said Will as witness in the presence of each other and in the presence of the Testator.

Hugh C. Mitchell, Thomas R. Thornton, William A. Overton

Sworn to and subscribed in open Court May 6th 1861. Eugenius L. King, Ordinary.
Recorded May 7th 1861.

Eugenius L. King, Ordinary

Reference

Greene County, Georgia, Wills 1786–1795, 1794–1810, 1840–1877, 1806–1816, 1817–1842, images 657–658, FamilySearch. 

James Durie

James Durie, son of George Durie and Mary Elisabeth Taylor, was born on April 26, 1824, in Inveresk with Musselburgh, Midlothian, Scotland. George and Mary raised six children: William Durie, James Durie, Agnes Durie, Elizabeth Durie, John Durie, and Robert Durie. 

James is my husband’s 2nd great-grandfather, with their nearest common ancestor being James’ daughter Jemima, my husband’s great-grandmother.

James was baptized on May 30, 1824, at Inveresk with Musselburgh, in a ceremony witnessed by John Paul and John Braidfoot. The parish, situated near Edinburgh, blended village and town life and was closely tied to the region’s coastal economy.

Birth and baptism record

James’ brother William enlisted in the military on February 13, 1837, despite being only 14 years old. I will share more about William’s life and service in my next post.

By 1841, the Durie family appears across three separate census pages. James’ father, George, was living alone at the West Pans Tollhouse, where he worked as a tollkeeper. The tollhouse—a small roadside cottage built by the turnpike trust—was designed for constant duty rather than family living. With its angled frontage and bay window, George would have monitored passing traffic and collected fees for carts, horses, and pedestrians. Its cramped interior explains why he lived there alone while his family remained nearby.

Mary and the children—James, Agnes, Elizabeth, John, and Robert—lived less than a mile away on High Street in Musselburgh. James, age 16, was recorded as an apprentice “c/wright,” almost certainly a coachwright. This trade, combining woodworking with ironwork, was a natural entry point into Glasgow’s expanding transport and engineering industries. William, the eldest brother, does not appear in the household, likely absent with his military unit.

George in the 1841 Scotland census

Elisabeth in the 1841 Scotland census

James and four of his siblings in the 1841 Scotland census

James married Jane Liddell Braidwood, daughter of Andrew Braidwood and Mary Liddell, on May 13, 1849, in Glasgow. At the time, James was working as an engineer. The couple welcomed nine children: Mary Durie, Agnes Durie, Elizabeth Durie, George Durie, Jemima Durie, Andrewina Durie, John Durie, Robert Durie, and Jane Durie. Their first child, Mary, was born on September 14, 1849, with John Braidwood and John Durie serving as witnesses.

James and Jane in the Scotland marriage register

By 1851, James had transitioned fully into engineering, a natural progression from his coachwright apprenticeship. The family lived at 67–69 Carrick Street in the St. George civil parish of Glasgow. James’ sister‑in‑law, Jessie Braidwood, age 21, was also living with them, likely working as a boy’s clothing maker.

1851 Scotland census

James’ brother William, a private in the 72nd Regiment of Foot (The Duke of Albany’s Own Highlanders), died on April 8, 1853, and was buried at Sandymount Cemetery in Glasgow.

James’ father, George, died of apoplexy on February 10, 1857, at 53 Cadogan Street in the Blythswood district. He had worked as a cotton storekeeper and was buried at Southern Necropolis Cemetery in Glasgow.

In 1861, the Durie family lived at 62 Brown Street in the Clyde District of St. George Parish. James, age 36, was working as an engine smith—crafting and repairing engine parts during Glasgow’s industrial boom.

1861 Scotland census

Tragedy struck that spring when two‑year‑old Andrewina died on May 26, 1861, after six weeks of dothinenteritis (typhoid fever) and two weeks of “water in the head,” likely hydrocephalus. She was buried at Eastern Necropolis in Lair 4964, held by her maternal grandfather, Andrew Braidwood.

James continued working as an engine fitter/journeyman, and by February 6, 1863, the family was living at 22 Pitt Street in Blythswood, Glasgow, where their son Robert was born.

James’ mother, Mary, died two years later on July 13, 1865, at her Cadogan Street home at age 69. Despite searches of Southern Necropolis and other Glasgow cemeteries, her burial place has not yet been identified. A notice of her death appeared in The Herald on July 15.

Another loss followed on November 6, 1866, when James and Jane’s youngest daughter, Jane, died of croup after only two days of illness. Her burial location remains unknown.

By 1871, the family remained at Pitt Street in a two‑window tenement. James continued as an engine fitter, while daughters Mary and Jemima worked as warehouse girls. George was an iron turner, and the younger boys attended school. A Liddell family also lived at the address, possibly relatives of Jane’s mother.

1871 Scotland census

The Durie children began forming their own families in the 1870s. Elizabeth married John Alexander in 1873, and Jemima married James Athya in 1877. By 1881, the family had moved to 46 Lancefield Street in Barony Parish. James was still an engine fitter, and his son Robert had become a plumber. James’ grandson Thomas Alexander, age 8, was also living with them, and was attending school.

1881 Scotland census

James’ son John married Annie Frew in 1881 and had three children—James, Jane, and Annie. Sadly, baby Jane died before her first birthday, and his wife Annie died sometime after 1890.

In 1886, James and Jane were listed in parochial relief records when their daughter Jemima applied for assistance in Cambusnethan.

Robert married Mary Lochhead on February 15, 1889, with James recorded as a journeyman engine fitter.

In 1891, James and Jane lived at 99 Hotcross Street in Barony Parish with their widowed son John and grandchildren James and Annie. James, now a marine engine fitter, continued working well into his later years.

1891 Scotland census

James’ sister Elizabeth died on May 2, 1897, in Kelvin, Lanarkshire, after several months of declining health following what would now be understood as a stroke. She was buried in Lair 974 at Western Necropolis Cemetery. His sister Agnes died on August 22, 1900, in Helensburgh, Row Parish, and was buried in Lair 973 at Western Necropolis. She never married.

In 1901, James and Jane lived at 33 McIntyre Street in Barony Parish with their son John and his children. James, age 77, was still working as a marine engine fitter. His grandson James was apprenticed in the same trade, while Annie attended school.

1901 Scotland census

James died at home on December 13, 1902, from a cerebral hemorrhage and senile decay. His son John was the informant on the death register.

James in the Scotland burial register

James was buried on December 16 at Eastern Necropolis Cemetery in Lair 384, compartment 13, at a depth of 10 feet. The lair, purchased by his son John, became a family resting place. Those buried with him include:

• Catherine Durie (granddaughter, died 1908)
• Jane Durie (wife, died 1908)
• Elizabeth Alexander (daughter, died 1911)
• Mary Durie (believed to be John’s daughter, died 1927)
• John Durie (son, died 1928)

 

Eastern Necropolis Cemetery burial register (see John on both line of both pages)

Lair 384 register

References

• Agnes Durie, Statutory Registers Deaths 503/109, National Records of Scotland, 1900.
• Andrina Durie, Statutory Registers Deaths 644/5 442, National Records of Scotland, 1861.
• Andrwine Durie, Glasgow, Scotland, Burial Records 1855–1861, image 236, FamilySearch.
• Daily interment books, December 1897-August 1912, cemetery records for Eastern Necropolis Cemetery, Glasgow, 1861-1995, film no. 008685206, image 333, FamilySearch.
• Deaths, Mrs. George Durie, The Herald, Glasgow, Scotland, July 15, 1865.
• Eastern Necropolis: Glasgow, Scotland, Cemetery Records 1900–1995, image 41, FamilySearch.
• Elisabeth Durie, Census 689/12/5, National Records of Scotland, 1841.
• Elizabeth Durie, Statutory Registers Deaths 644/6 358, National Records of Scotland, 1865.
• Elizabeth Durie, Statutory Registers Marriages 644/9 127, National Records of Scotland, 1873.
• Elizabeth Morris, Statutory Registers Deaths 644/9 551, National Records of Scotland, 1897.
• George Durie, Census 689/9/1, National Records of Scotland, 1841.
• George Durie, Statutory Registers Deaths 644/6 86, National Records of Scotland, 1857.
• Glasgow, Scotland, Burial Records 1850–1854, images 207–208, FamilySearch.
• Glasgow, Scotland, Burial Records January 1882–March 1900, image 274, FamilySearch.
• James Athya, Statutory Registers Marriages 644/12 176, National Records of Scotland, 1877.
• James Durie, Census 644/1 47/15, National Records of Scotland, 1851.
• James Durie, Census 644/10 30/20, National Records of Scotland, 1881.
• James Durie, Census 644/5 55/7, National Records of Scotland, 1861.
• James Durie, Census 644/69/19, National Records of Scotland, 1871.
• James Durie, Census 689/12/7, National Records of Scotland, 1841.
• James Durie, Census 689/12/7, National Records of Scotland, 1841.
• James Durie, Old Parish Registers Births 689/Inveresk and Musselburgh, 1824.
• James Durie, Scotland, Select Births and Baptisms, 1564–1950.
• James Durie, Statutory Registers Deaths 644/10 734, National Records of Scotland, 1902.
• Jane Braidwood, Old Parish Registers Marriages 644/1 Glasgow, National Records of Scotland, 1849.
• Jane Durie, Statutory Registers Deaths 644/6 504, National Records of Scotland, 1866.
• Jemima Durie (or Athya), Cambusnethan. Parish Poor Law Records 1886–1887, image 180, FamilySearch.
• Jemima Durie, Census 644/5 55/8, National Records of Scotland, 1861.
• John Durie, Census 644/10 13/10, National Records of Scotland, 1901.
• John Durie, Census 644/10 17/3, National Records of Scotland, 1891.
• Mary Durie, Old Parish Registers Births 644/1 Glasgow, National Records of Scotland, 1849.
• William Durie, Old Parish Registers Births 689/Inveresk and Musselburgh, National Records of Scotland, 1821.
• William Durie, UK, Royal Hospital Chelsea Pensioner Admissions and Discharges, 1715–1925.
• Wm. Durie, UK, Royal Hospital Chelsea Admission Books, Registers and Papers, 1702–1980. 

Walter Chandler accused of giving alcohol to Antony

This post is part of an ongoing project to record names of enslaved people of Greene County, Georgia I find in historical records. 

September Term 1854 
The State vs. Walter Chandler
Misdemeanor, Georgia, Greene County

The grand jurors sworn, chosen and selected for the county of Greene to wit, John Armstrong, foreman, John G. Holtzclaw, Jesse W. Champion, John M. Taylor, James Perkins, Wm. W. Brooks, Johnson Boswell, James T. Findley, William Terrell, Richard G. Carleton, Arch. Carleton, John Colclough, William Monfort, James A. Thornton, Lorenzo D. Carleton, John E. Jackson, Elisha Hall, Alfred M. Lansdell, John Hobens, John A. Miller, in the name and behalf of the citizens of Georgia, charge and accuse Walter Chandler of the county and state aforesaid with the offence of misdemeanor for that the said Walter Chandler in the county aforesaid on the fifteenth day of March in the year eighteen hundred and fifty-four and then and there furnished a negro man slave named Antony then and there the property of Samuel Walker with a certain quantity of rum, whisky, gin, brandy to wit one quart for his, the said slaves, own use without the knowledge or consent of the owner, overseer, or employer of said slave Antony, he the said Walter Chandler not then and there being the owner overseer or employer of said slave Antony contrary to the laws of said state, the good order, peace, and dignity thereof.

T. T. Saffold, Sol. Gen’l.
Samuel Walker, Pros.

Reference

Greene County, Georgia, Greene. Court Minutes 1844–1855, image 430, FamilySearch. 

Matthew Gordon: A Wrong Turn Opened a Door to History

When I first began exploring my husband’s ancestry in 2001, I was given the names Matthew and Elizabeth Gordon as the parents of his 2nd great‑grandmother, Jane Gordon. I took their names at face value, included them in my notes, but never took the time to research them until December 2025. I spent several days tracing Matthew’s life, convinced I had found the right man. His will, written in 1807, named wife Elizabeth and daughter Jane—already married by that time—and I didn’t stop to question the timeline. Only after completing the research did I realize my mistake: Jane, my husband’s direct ancestor, was born in 1808 according to her tombstone. She couldn’t possibly be the same Jane mentioned in Matthew’s will. Though I’ve been researching family history for 25 years, this misstep helped me sort out the Gordon families in the surrounding area.

While Matthew turned out not to be Jane’s father, the time I spent tracing his life was not wasted. His will and land records were very interesting and helped me understand the early Gordon presence in Westmoreland County, Pennsylvania. They showed how families settled, improved, and passed property in the first decades after the county’s creation. What I learned about Matthew leaves me with a brick wall, but the information may prove useful if a connection turns up later. That’s the nature of family history—sometimes the wrong turn still points you toward the bigger picture. 

Matthew Gordon married a woman named Elizabeth. Nothing is yet known about Matthew’s parents, and beyond Elizabeth’s first name I have found no further details about her. His 1807 will, however, provides a fuller picture of the family, naming 11 children: Jane, Rebeckah, William, Agnes, Elizabeth, Alexander, Samuel, Matthew Jr., James, John, and Mary. Of these, I have birth dates only for Jane (November 1808) and Matthew Jr. (1809), so the list does not reflect their true order of birth. The census records support this picture: in 1790 his household included 10 members, in 1800 it grew to 12, and by 1810 it had returned to 10, consistent with children marrying or moving out.

Matthew’s first connection to land in Westmoreland County dates to 1773, when local justices certified that he had begun improving a tract along Turtle Creek. The application described 300 acres adjoining the lands of Robert Hays and William Elwood, with his claim recognized as beginning in March of that year. In frontier terms, “improvement” meant clearing ground, planting crops, or building a cabin—tangible signs that Matthew was establishing a permanent presence. This early activity gave him priority when he later applied for a warrant, ensuring that his right to the tract would be formally acknowledged by the Commonwealth.

Matthew’s land application

On November 8, 1784, the Commonwealth issued a warrant for Matthew’s 300 acres along Turtle Creek, formally recognizing the land he had first improved in 1773. Such warrants were available to any adult settler who applied through Pennsylvania’s land office and paid the required fees. They were only granted after the Commonwealth had purchased land from Native nations through formal treaties, meaning Matthew’s claim rested on territory that had recently shifted from Indigenous custodianship to state authority. Unlike Revolutionary War veterans who received bounty warrants as a reward for their service, Matthew’s claim was a civilian purchase. His warrant shows how ordinary settlers also secured land in the new republic once territory had been opened by treaty, situating him among Pennsylvania’s earliest landholders even without military service.

Land warrant granted 1784

County histories later remembered Matthew as one of the earliest settlers of Franklin Township. Alongside neighbors such as William Meanor, Robert Hays, Michael Rugh, Finley, Stitt, and John Hill, Matthew was listed among the pioneers who transformed the wilderness into farmland before and during the Revolutionary era. Their settlement along Turtle Creek placed them near contested boundaries with Native nations, where raids and captures were a constant threat. Families like the Rughs endured years of captivity in Canada after being taken by Native raiding parties, while Robert Hays and his son were also seized and held for three years. Even those who returned often faced loss, as Hays himself was later killed defending his home.

Like his neighbors, Matthew’s household would have lived in a simple log dwelling, with floors made from thick slabs of split logs laid flat, a wooden chimney plastered to guard against sparks, and rough furniture made from local timber. These homes were the hallmark of Franklin Township’s earliest settlers, reflecting both the resourcefulness and the precariousness of frontier life. Together, these details highlight the dangers and difficulties Matthew and his neighbors confronted in establishing the community.

The 1788 Pennsylvania Tax and Exoneration List confirms Matthew’s 300‑acre tract, granted by warrant in 1784, with a valuation of 37 pounds 10 shillings. Given that his farm was still in its early stages of development, no livestock were recorded under his name.

1788 Pennsylvania Tax and Exoneration List

A 1789 Tax and Exoneration List from Franklin Township recorded Matthew owning 200 acres of land. He had two horses and two cows, all valued at 35 pounds sterling. Matthew paid 1 shilling and 10 pence in taxes that year.

1789 Pennsylvania Tax and Exoneration List

1789 tax records

These tax records not only confirm Matthew’s holdings but also place him within a wider Gordon presence in Franklin Township. Deeds from the 1780s onward show Archibald Gordon and other Gordons on adjoining tracts, suggesting close kinship and a family cluster that helped shape the early Turtle Creek community.

Matthew lived in Franklin Township in 1790. His household consisted of 10 members, including one free white male (age 16 and over), 4 free white males (under 16), and 5 free white females (regardless of age). This census record shows that, assuming one of the females was Matthew’s wife, he had eight children.

1790 Franklin Township census

By 1795, Archibald Gordon was farming and selling a 215‑acre tract along Turtle Creek. His deed to Robert and William Duff confirms he had an established improvement there, placing him side‑by‑side with Matthew’s holdings and underscoring the Gordons as a family cluster in Franklin Township.

In the Federal Direct Tax of 1798 (part of the nationwide “House Tax”), Matthew was recorded in Franklin Township, with a dwelling house valued at $16 and a tract of 430 acres assessed at $1,935.

1798 Pennsylvania Direct Tax List

The 1800 federal census recorded Matthew’s household with 12 members: two boys under 10, two boys between 10 and 15, and two young men aged 16 to 25, alongside Matthew himself, listed in the category of males 45 and over. The female side of the household included one girl under 10, one between 10 and 15, two young women aged 16 to 25, and Matthew’s wife, also recorded in the category of females 45 and over. Altogether, six of the household members were under 16, while two were over 25 leading me to believe both minor and grown children lived in the household.

On April 25, 1800, Matthew sold a parcel of land adjoining his farm to neighbor William Gillespie, receiving a bay mare in payment. Witness William Christy recorded the agreement, and Gillespie took possession of the tract immediately.

On September 18, 1807, Matthew, aware of his failing health, carefully arranged for the care of his wife Elizabeth and their children by writing his Last Will and Testament. He directed that Elizabeth remain in the family home and keep her bed, household furniture, a cow, and a bay mare, with son Matthew to look after the animals. His son John was given 100 acres, though he was asked to pay £30 to his brother James as James’ portion. The rest of the farm was to be divided between sons Matthew and Samuel once Samuel came of age, with the land supporting Elizabeth and the younger children until then. Son Alexander was to be apprenticed to a trade when he turned 14. His daughters each received monetary portions: Mary £25 (having already received £5 at marriage), Jane £10 (having already received £20 at marriage), Rebeckah £30, Elizabeth £30, and Agnes £30. Sons William and Alexander were also promised £30 each, to be paid in installments by Matthew and Samuel. To keep peace among the heirs, Matthew arranged that if Matthew and Samuel could not agree on dividing the land, trusted neighbors would step in to settle it. He gave his large family Bible to son Matthew, the rest of the books to Elizabeth, and named his son Matthew and neighbor Michael Rugh as executors of the will. Witnesses Andrew Hindman and John Hamilton signed the document, which was proved on September 30, 1807.

Matthew’s last will and testament

In the 1810 federal census, Matthew was still living in Franklin Township. His household included 1 adult male over 16 (Matthew himself), 4 younger males, and 5 females of varying ages, for a total of 10 people. 

Matthew’s exact death date is not recorded, but the surviving documents help me narrow it down. He wrote his will on September 18, 1807, and was still alive at the time of the 1810 federal census. By February 1, 1812, however, the Westmoreland County court had issued letters of administration for his estate, confirming that he had died by then. Most likely, Matthew passed away sometime between August 1810 and January 1812. Although he left a detailed will, the court appointed William Christy as administrator, backed by a $2,000 bond with Andrew Hindman as surety, to ensure the estate was properly managed. This step suggests that the executors named in the will were unable or unwilling to serve, and the court required formal administration to settle debts and distribute property. The large bond amount reflects the value of Matthew’s holdings.

Letters of administration

In May 1813, the Westmoreland County Court of Common Pleas reviewed Matthew’s earlier land sale to William Gillespie. William Christy appeared in court to testify that he had witnessed Matthew sign the 1800 agreement, and that Gillespie had occupied the parcel ever since. The court accepted Christy’s testimony and validated the contract, ensuring Gillespie’s title was secure.

On March 19, 1817, the state issued a patent to his son Samuel Gordon for the 430 acres surveyed under Matthew’s warrant, confirming that Matthew’s purchase had matured into a permanent land. In March 1852, James Christy and his wife Polly sold a 39‑acre parcel in Franklin Township to William G. Elwood. The deed traced the land back to Matthew’s 1784 warrant and the 1817 patent to Samuel Gordon, showing how portions of the tract were gradually subdivided and conveyed into the wider community.

On April 6, 1824, Samuel Gordon conveyed part of the land to his brother John. Twelve years later, on April 1, 1836, John and his wife Eleanor sold 181 acres to John Rubright, marking the first time property tied to Matthew’s warrant moved outside the family.

With the March 19, 1817 patent issued to his son Samuel for the 430 acres surveyed under Matthew’s warrant, Matthew’s original claim was secured as a permanent land title, ensuring that his name remained among Pennsylvania’s earliest landholders and that his purchase continued to shape the Gordon family’s legacy.

There is much more to learn about Matthew and his family, but thanks to his will I have a clearer picture of his household. Even if he is not Jane’s father, his records anchor the Gordon presence in Westmoreland County and may yet connect to our line in ways still to be discovered. To any researcher who can use this information—you’re welcome.

References

• Deed Book: Westmoreland County, Pennsylvania, Deed Books 1812–1813, image 233, FamilySearch.
• Deed Book: Westmoreland County, Pennsylvania, Deed Books 1815–1816, image 104, FamilySearch.
• Deed Book: Westmoreland County, Pennsylvania, Deed Books 1799–1803, image 339, FamilySearch.
• Mathew Gordon, Pennsylvania, U.S., Septennial Census, 1779–1863.
• Matthew Gorden, Pennsylvania, U.S., Tax and Exoneration, 1768–1801.
• Matthew Gordon, Pennsylvania, U.S., Land Warrants and Applications, 1733–1952.
• Matthew Gordon, Pennsylvania, U.S., Tax and Exoneration, 1768–1801.
• Matthew Gordon, Pennsylvania, Wills and Probate Records, 1683–1993.
• Pennsylvania, Tax Records 1798, image 433, FamilySearch.
• U.S. Federal Census, Franklin Township, Westmoreland County, Pennsylvania, 1790, 1810.
• U.S. Federal Census, Washington, Westmoreland County, Pennsylvania, 1800.
• Westmoreland County, Pennsylvania, Warrants 1957, image 1304, FamilySearch.
• Will books; will indexes: Westmoreland County, Pennsylvania, Will Books 1773–1819, image 115, FamilySearch.
• York, History Records 1886, Westmoreland County, Pennsylvania, Biographies 1997, History Records 1886, image 312, FamilySearch.

Randal used as collateral for Joseph Sanford’s bank debt

This post is part of an ongoing project to record names of enslaved people of Greene County, Georgia I find in historical records. 

Sanford to Boner

State of Georgia, Greene County. Rec’d from William H. Boner five hundred and thirty dollars for an in consideration of a negroe man named Randal, about twenty-one years of age, slave for life. The right and title of said negroe, I do by these presents warrant and defend the title of said negroe to him the said Boner, his heirs and assigns forever. 

The condition of this obligation is such that whereas a note made and dated on the 4th day of March 1830 at sixty-one days after date, payable at the Branch Bank of the State of Georgia to the order of William H. Boner and by said Boner endorsed to the Branch Bank aforesaid, and executed by the said Joseph Sanford for the sum of five hundred and thirty dollars and discounted at said Bank for the accommodation of the said Joseph K. Sanford, now if the said Joseph K. shall, will, and truly pay all deductions and interest, and meet all the requisitions of said Bank, and have the said Boner from the payment of said note, and venue the same at its maturity and finally pay off and discharge the same whenever said Bank shall require it, together with all expenses attending the same, then, this obligation to be void otherwise to remain in full force and virtue in terms of the mortgage law, in such cases made and provided.

Joseph K. Sanford [seal]

Executed before us 24th March 1830
Thomas Stocks, J.J.C.

Recorded 24th day of March 1830
Thomas W. Grimes, Clk.

Reference

Greene County, Georgia, Deed Books 1824–1828, 1829–1851, image 431, FamilySearch. 

James Athya, another puzzle piece uncovered

Recently, I shared an update to James Athya’s story after discovering a new article through Newspapers.com. Just nine days later, another alert led me to a Jacksonville, Florida newspaper that answered a lingering question: was James’ body returned to Steubenville, Ohio for burial? The article confirmed that it was, noting that Estes‑Krauss Funeral Home made arrangements to do so on March 6, 1942.

James, 22, had been killed in a head on collision near Kingsland, Georgia while riding as a passenger. The report also mentioned that both drivers survived and another passenger was treated for injuries.

James’ story has always intrigued me. A first cousin once removed to my husband, he was born in 1919 in Bellshill, Lanark, Scotland, to Robert Durie Athya and Margaret Shaw, the eldest of three siblings. He lost his mother at the age of six, then emigrated to America in 1930 with his father and siblings, settling first in Pennsylvania and later in Ohio. From newspaper reports and census records, I learned of his adventures train hopping en route to Mardi Gras, which even landed him in jail for 10 days, and of his work at a mission in West Virginia. Within the family, however, it was remembered that James may have died in an auto accident, though relatives were never entirely certain. Family lore also suggested that James may have traveled with a carnival before his untimely death. That possibility remains the last piece of the puzzle to unravel in his story, and I hope someday to learn whether he truly lived that adventure.

Reference

Body of Crash Victim Will Be Sent to Ohio, Jacksonville Journal, Jacksonville, Florida, p. 11, March 6, 1942.