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Perquimans County NcArchives History - Books .....Early Inhabitants 1931************************************************Copyright. All rights reserved.http://www.usgwarchives.net/copyright.htmhttp://www.usgwarchives.net/nc/ncfiles.htm************************************************File contributed for use in USGenWeb Archives by:Joy Fisher sdgenweb@yahoo.com December 2, 2007, 11:35 pmBook Title: History Of Perquimans CountyEARLY INHABITANTSFROM THE SETTLEMENT OF PERQUIMANS TO THE REVOLUTIONARY PERIOD At what date the first white man set foot on Perquimans soil, staked a claimand erected his humble abode, no one can say with any degree of certainty. Footein his notes claims that a band of settlers moved down on the Chowan Rivershortly after the Indian massacre in 1622. Where they took root he does notvouchsafe. As Chowan River has its headwaters in Virginia, with the BlackwaterRiver as one of its tributaries, the inference may well be drawn that thoseearly settlers followed the water courses, in their journey down to the newcountry instead of overland migration, as it is a well known fact that theforest and land adjoining the Dismal Swamp was at that time an impenetrabletangle of trees and undergrowth, full of danger for man and beast, with but afew Indian paths, and no man knew where they led. Therefore the immigrantsfought shy of the interior, and clung to the river banks, where escape was moreeasy in case of attack by hostile tribes, fish could be procured for the dailyfare, and houses built on high ground. The settlement spoken of by Foote was most probably in what is now GatesCounty, and was then Chowan, or still in the unnamed wilderness called Carolina.Orapeak (Corapeak) in Gates County was certainly one of the first, if not thefirst settlement in Carolina, and the records in Perquimans prove beyond asingle doubt that Perquimans County at that time ran all the way to the Virginialine, taking in this old landmark. This line was changed in 1779, and Perquimansshrank to its present boundary. Roger Green, a clergyman from Virginia, started with a colony to settle onlower Chowan River in 1653. He came vested with power to possess lands inCarolina, but there has always been some doubt about the location of hissettlement, and as the name of Green appears on the early records in Perquimanswe are led to believe that some of his followers may have drifted over into thebordering county and taken up land there. As the names of his followers are notmentioned there is no authoritative way by which they can be traced, or thelocality of their destination be determined. Green no doubt allowed full freedomto his countrymen, and they naturally selected land where it best suited them to"squat." As no record remains to show where they did take up claims, the Riversand high lands adjoining afforded the most charming sites for homes, with thewaterways as an outlet to market, a place to fish, the land less hard to clear,and last but not least, a better water supply, which was a very stronginducement, considering the health of the colony. This migration preceded theadvent of George Durant by eight years, and there can be little doubt in themind of any one versed in the early history of Albemarle, that many settlerswere well established on their own land in Perquimans Precinct before saidDurant decided to come to North Carolina. Among these early settlers, no doubtcan be enumerated such men as Samuel Pricklove, whose land adjoined the landsold to George Durant by the Indian Chief Kilcoconewen King of Yeopim, on March1, 1661, and Caleb Calloway, who appears as a witness to said deed. The land ofsaid Samuel Pricklove lay around, or just below where the town of New Hope nowstands. This made him a near neighbor of Durant, and they became fast friends.Pricklove was a Quaker, but it did not prevent him from following Durant in theRebellion of 1677-79, even when his associations strictly forbade one of thesect to take up arms, and other Quakers followed his example, being also a partof the "rabble" that helped to depose acting Governor Thomas Miller. Therebellion caused a great deal of unrest in the colony and the county breathedeasier, and sat more at ease when Miller finally took passage for Virginia, andlater went home to England. All unwittingly George Durant struck the first notefor American Independence, and routed the first unjust tax collector to appearon American soil, when he with his "rabble" drove out Miller, and stopped theunlawful Custom receipts in 1677-79. So much has been written and said about being first that it has becomesomewhat a sore subject, especially when it is done without undisputedauthority, therefore the writer feels it a real duty to bring before the readingpublic the fact that in Perquimans precinct, at the mouth of Little River cameinto being the first authenticated town in Albemarle, called "Little River."This town was situated on the west side of the mouth of Little River and by 'actof Assembly became one of the "Ports of Entry" for Albemarle, where "ships shalllaid, and unlaid." Precinct Court was held in this town for forty years, andnear this place a "Gran Court House" was built about 1701, where Court was heldfor only one time on October 14, 1701. The Court House stood on the Sound, andwas probably burned between the time of the holding of the October Court, andthe date of its next session, as it is not mentioned on any record after thatdate. The Precinct Courts came to order at the houses of old residents before,and afterwards, the first recorded being at the house of one Harris (ThomasHarris) who was the first Clerk of Perquimans, and later after his death at thehouse of Thomas White, who had married the widow of Harris, September 4, 1694.In every precinct a court consisted of a Steward (Judge) and four justices, whowere inhabitants of said precinct, owning 300 acres of land as a freehold. Noman could serve on the jury unless he held a freehold of fifty acres of land inthe county, and a grand juryman had to be the possessor of 300 acres, the pettyjurymen having 200 acres, a constable 100 acres, and no man was called a freemanwho did not acknowledge God. Divers persons in Carolina were possessed of landby reason of grants from Sir William Berkeley. The deed to George Durant being the oldest recorded in North Carolina, has ledthe general public to the wrong impression that he brought into Perquimans itsfirst settlers, and planted the first colony, while as a matter of fact manypersons were well rooted, even in the neck now called "Durants" before hisarrival in the colony. This deed, however, was not recorded on the deed book inPerquimans until 1716, when the then Register of Deeds, John Stepney made a copyof it, calling himself "Register of all Writings for Perquimans Precinct."Durant, as the deed shows, took up all the land between Perquimans and LittleRiver and immediately began to build, when one George Catchmaid arose andclaimed the said land by a prior grant from Sir "William Berkeley, thereuponDurant after starting his home in the new land "desisted" and quit building.George Catchmeyed was an Englishman, who at a council "At James Citty Virginia,"September 25, 1663, is styled as Gent, "coming from Treslick England," and hereceived a grant from the Yirginia government of 1500 acres, "in a Bay of yeRiver Carolina (Sound) adjoining Captain Jenkins (John) by ye River piquimins,due for transpotation of thirty persons into this Collony." His land was eitherincreased by purchase or other grants, as the deeds in Perquimans prove he waspossessed of 3,333 acres, which descended to his niece, Elizabeth Chandler, ofLondon, he having died in Nansemond County, Virginia, without heirs. His widowmarried second Timothy Biggs of Perquimans, who set up a counter claim for theland called "Birkswear" which was situated in the lower end of Durants Neck, andlater became known as "Stevensons Point." At a Council held at St. Mary's, Maryland, October 17, 1666, the Assembly ofthe Province of North Carolina "sent hither "William Drummond, Esq., Governorthereof and George Catchemeyed Gent Speaker of the Assembly." George Catchmaid,who lived his last days in Virginia, and was at his death Clerk of NansemondCounty in said State. William Drummond, a sober Scotch gentleman of good repute, was appointedGovernor of Albemarle in the fall of 1664, and served until 1676, when he wassummarily recalled by Sir William Berkeley, who had him executed in an hourafter his arrival, for his sympathy with Bacon in the rebellion. It is a wellestablished fact that Governor Drummond lived in Durant's Neck, PerquimansCounty, somewhere near the Sound and Little River, but sad to relate everyvestage of the site has disappeared, old residents claiming that the land atthat point caved in, and has been engulfed by the greedy waters of the Sound. Hewas no doubt buried in Virginia, and his wife lies sleeping the last sleep inthe graveyard at Jamestown. George Durant of whom so much has been written and said, came to America fromLondon, and landed first in Northumberland County, Virginia. While it isadmitted that he came from England, some writers claim he was of Scotchparentage, and also that he was by faith a Presbyterian, although an opinion haserroneously been spread abroad that he adhered to the Quaker faith, which cannot be proven by any record, either county or Friends Church Register. He wasmarried by an Episcopal minister (David Lindsay) in Northumberland County,Virginia, and the records in Perquimans are ample proof of the fact that henever affiliated with the Friends in a religious way, only one of his manychildren having married in the last named society, that being a daughter, whomarried Joseph Sutton. (See Sutton family in this book.) George Durant in a deed Perquimans County, calls himself "Mariner" thereforehe may have been master of some sailing vessel, which calling he probablyabandoned on coming to Perquimans, where he was undoubtedly engaged in ratherextensive farming operations for the time, becoming one of the most influentialplanters in all Albemarle. He was evidently far above the average in educationaladvantages, possessed of pronounced political opinions, added to other goodqualities fine executive ability. He swayed the masses at his will, andaccording to Colonial Records "used Jenkins (John) as his property" being calledby those opposed to him in the rebellion, "the most uncontrollable man in thecountry." With the Indians he was just, and according to records now on file inPerquimans not one thing can be brought against him, as to honesty and fairdealing with his neighbors, or fellowmen. His home has faded from the memory ofman, and not even the location of his last resting place can be found, buttradition has it that he was buried by the side of a large lead drain, inDurants Neck, and that repeated cutting of the drain caused an accumulation ofsoil to be heaped up on the mound, thereby obscuring it from sight, until thevery place has been lost where he lies buried. Beloved of men, honored by theIndians, his .memory still lives in the hearts of descendants, and thoseinterested in the history of Perquimans. To encourage emigration every settler was granted 100 acres for his owntransportation, and fifty acres for every servant he brought in. "All personswho doe come to plant in Carolina before December 25, 1672, above the age ofsixteen" were granted fifty acres of land. The Register of each precinct had tobe the owner of 300 acres, and was charged to "well behave himself." Eachprecinct was ordered to keep a record of all marriages, birth, and deaths, "in abook" in his own respective limitations. Such a "book" was painstakingly kept bythe Register of Perquimans, which was called "Births, Deaths, and Marriages inBerkeley" being the name of the parish, which seems to have taken into itsbounds the whole confines of Perquimans Precinct, as then surveyed. This "book"is still to be seen at the Hall of History, Raleigh, N. C, in a fairly goodstate of preservation. Among some of those who received grants from Sir William Berkeley are to befound, John Harvey, who was granted 250 acres, on River Carolina (Sound)adjoining Roger Williams, which land was granted "att James Citty" September 5,1663; and John Jenkins in like manner received 700 acres, "being a Neck of land,bounded on the South by River Carolina (Sound) and on the North by PyquomonsRiver, and on the West by land of Thomas Jarvis." Granted at same place. John Harvey whose land was situated in what is now called "Harveys Neck" layon a sunny bluff, fronting on both the Sound, and the River, one of the choicepossessions in the county. The founder of this illustrious family became one ofthe early Governors, 1678-79, lived and died in the Neck that bears his name,and was buried in the old cemetery on the Sound. This graveyard after many yearscaved in, and the stones were washed into the Sound. Some of them (three) wererecovered, and placed in another cemetery further inland, where numerousHarveys, all of good repute lie buried. This family held every office that thecounty could bestow on any citizen, from Justice to Governor, and the flower ofthem all became Moderator at New Bern 1774, who unfortunately died just at thebeginning of the Revolutionary War, thereby the county lost one of its strongestsupporters, and the State a great patriot. Not a vestage is left of the oldHarvey mansion, called "Harvey Hall" and the underbrush and weeds are growingwhere statesmen once walked. The old cemetery nearby is pitifully neglected,forsaken and desolate in the extreme, where rest the remains of Col. ThomasHarvey, and others with only the song of night birds, and a requiem of the treesto keep them company. Of all the many Harvey sons not one remains in Perquimanswho bears the name, but there are still living a few collateral branches, andonly one strictly speaking lineal descendant in the person of Miss Emily Skinnerof Hertford. As this family has been well written up in the North CarolinaHistorical and Genealogical Register, the writer feels that it has been fullytaken care of, and that no addition made could improve that splendidcontribution to posterity. No minister being stationed in the Province of Carolina prior to January 20,1669, an Act of Assembly was passed making it lawful for those wishing to bejoined in marriage to appear before the Governor, or some Councilor, and theredeclare themselves as man and wife having several friends, or neighbors presentas witnesses, whereupon the marriage was declared legal and the Register of thePrecinct in which such marriage took place inscribed their names on the bookused for that purpose. A "Grand Councell for ye County of Albemarle" was held at the house of "Gen'lMr George Durant November 6, 1679" at which time John Nixon, who was a member ofsaid Council, declared his age to be fifty-four years. George Durant's house wason the Sound. (Colonial Records, Vol. I, page 355.) Mr. Seth Sothel, a sober, moderate man, in no way concerned with the rebelfactions of 1677-79 took the helm as Governor of Carolina November 20, 1680.Pirates had already begun their nefarious work in the waters of Albemarle, andthe English government were cognizant of the state of affairs, orderingsuppression of all sea rovers, at Whitehall February 27, 1683. One Jacob Hallcame from La Vera Cruz, who "belonged not to the place, having no Inhabitants ofCarolina with him sayled for Virginia" when he was questioned by the authoritiesin Albemarle about his sailing papers. He was sailing under orders from Van Hornwith a commission from the French government, nevertheless he was indicted,found guilty and hung with two others as a privateer at the entrance of theport. Soon after this occurrence grave charges were preferred against SethSothel (1691) for which he was imprisoned. He was accused of seizing two personswho came from Barbados, "charging them with Pyracy" though they producedclearance papers from the government, and did "imprison unlawfully RobertCannon, and arbitrarily detained two servants of John Stewart, and out of malicedid imprison George Durant upon some reflecting words of yo self, and compelledhim to give you a sum of money while in durance." He also took from John Tomlinhis plantation, and detained unlawfully cattle belonging to George Mathews, andwould not deliver them even after an Order of Court was secured by said Mathewsfor their liberation. From John Harris (son of Thomas first Clerk of Perquimans)he took possession of a plantation, for which offence he was ordered to "comespeedily to England" where the home government dealt in a lenient manner withhis misdemeanors, being "unwilling to make of him a publick shame" May 12, 1691.Finally he was accused of being in sympathy with the pirates to the limit ofextending commissions to them, which accusation brought about his impeachment,and he was deposed from the governorship, taking refuge in South Carolina. Inthe last Province he was again lifted to the high office of governor, and againsuffered impeachment for the identical nefarious practices, and returned toPerquimans where he died in shame. The records give the fact that "there was novice known to man that he had not been guilty of." Dying without descendants hisbad nature died with him, and Anne, his wife, took for her fourth husband, JohnLeah, of Nansemond County, Virginia. On November 8,1691, instructions were received from England to "use ye uttmostendeavor to make a settm't of a Towne, remote from the Sea, as a Seat ofGovernment in Carolina" at which date Edenton was made the seat of governmentfor Carolina, it is supposed. The Colonial Records of North Carolina have excellent copies of the oldprecinct court proceedings in Perquimans, showing the earliest extant to be thatat the house of ____ Harris (Thomas) May, 1693. According to the same source thefact is gained that the oldest records were burned during the rebellion of1677-79. A few old papers escaped this tragic fate by being lodged with theSecretary of State, the old wills of Perquimans having been fortunate in thatrespect, have been beautifully abstracted by Mr. J. Bryan Grimes, Secretary ofState, in his book, Grimes' North Carolina Wills. All wills prior to 1762 arethere found in abstract form, and the later ones Mr. J. R. B. Hathaway did thesame for in his Quarterlies, now procurable in all libraries in book form. TheseQuarterlies are a wonderful contribution to the collection of any library,giving as they do such a fund of information about the entire history of easternNorth Carolina. If a person in search of data from these counties will work thisbook in conjunction with the two mentioned he or she will be well repaid for thetrouble. The Court held May, 1693, shows sitting as Justices, Alexander Lillington,Caleb Calloway, and John Barrow. The will of Robert Smith was proven at thiscourt, and Jonathan Bateman and John Durant (son of George) were appointed toappraise his estate. Mrs. Sarah Woolard secured an order of court, demandingestate due her, "now in the hands of Mr. Edward Smythriek in Chowan county." Onthe grand jury are found the names of "Timo Pead, Mr Rich Evins, Mr AnthoDawson, Mr Geo Branch, Mr Israel Snelling, Mr Thomas Tondle (Toddy), Mr JnoLittle, Mr Jno Stepne, Mr James Hogg. The pettit jury consisted of Mr RalphFletcher, Mr Christopher Butler, Mr Timo Clare, Mr James Thigpen, Mr Tho.Pierce, Mr Patrick Kenedy, Mr Ste. Mannering (Manwarring), Mr Robert Brightwell,Mr Geo Eames, Mr Isac Wilson, Mr John Willoughby, Mr Francis Foster." Robert andJohanna Beasley were paid for six days attending court, and Caleb Callowayreceived 30 shillings from the estate of "Guyles Long deceased" for what reasonis not specified. Diana (Manners) Harris, wife of Thomas, married second William Foster, 1675,hence the next precinct court came to order at the house of "Diana Foster inFebruary 1694/4, with same justices present. The proceeding of this court showthat Mr. John Davis was dead, and John Philpott withdrew an action againstRichard Nowell. Rights were proven by Thomas Lepper for ten persons as follows:Thomas (twice) Ann, Sarah, Rebecca Lepper, Ann Kent, John Thomas, William Brown,William Brickstone, and Nicholas Roberson. Caleb Calloway proved rights for"Dan'll Pembroke, Tho. Merett (an Indian) and Arthur Long." The last captain inBacon's Rebellion. Roger Snell by gift conveyed land to Jonathan Taylor. Thewill of Mr. George Durant was probated during the session of this court, "byoath of Mr. John Philpott and Mr. Francis ffoster." Seth Sothel had also passedaway, and his will was proven by Col. William Wilkinson, Capt. Henderson Walker,and Sarah Woolard, all residents of Perquimans. Lawrence Arnold, deceased, hiswidow, Elizabeth, was sworn in as his Administratrix. Rights were proven byThomas Pierce, for himself, John, Susanna, Ruth, Dorothy, Mary, and John Pierce.Hannah Gosby proved rights for her son, John Gosby, Jno. Anderson, JeanAnderson, Katherine Kinsey, Jeremiah White and Henry Clayton. (John Kinsey cameto North Carolina from Nansemond County, Virginia, and wedded Katherine,daughter of Francis Toms, having one son, John, born 1692, his death occurringsoon after, she married second John Nicholson.) John Bentley entered land forimportations, Jean, Mary, and Sarah Bentley. Jenkins Williams proved rights forhimself. Timothy Clare imported Edmond Rodman, and Richard Fox, Junior. SamuelNicholson rights for Christopher Nicholson, and Hannah his wife (who came fromNew England) Deliverance Sutton (daughter of said Christopher, and wife ofJoseph Sutton) Francis Simons, Hannah Nicholson. Thomas Harloe proved rights forhimself, Mary (twice) and John Harloe, probably his son. John Durant rights forhimself and wife Sarah (Jooke). William Godfrey rights for himself and SarahGodfrey. James, Ann, Alice, and John Wilson came to Carolina as headrights ofJames ffewox. Edward Mayo, Senior, transported himself and children, Edward,Sarah, Ann, Elizabeth Mayo, also Em John, and Ann Nixon, and Samuel and AfficaPike. William Butler rights for himself and wife Diana. Richard Nowell rightsfor himself Joan, Ellinor, Alice, and Olliver Nowell, John Smith, Charles,George, and Mary Taylor. (Richard Nowell settled on Little River.) TabithaHaskeet (Hasket) rights for John Gray and Tabitha his wife (her daughter), JohnGray, Junior, and Thomas Gray. William Lacey proved rights for himself, hisfather, William Lacey, Sr., Grace, and John Lacey, probably his wife andbrother, and Jean Davis. James Loadman rights for himself (twice) and hismother, Jean Buyard. Stephen Manwaring rights for Edward Berry, and John Deadman(who died at the house of John Harris July 15, 1692, for whom Deadman's Swamp inPerquimans was named). The name of Manwarring appears on the records of RichmondCounty, Virginia, and one Stephen Manwarring came to Carolina from Surry County,Virginia, apparently. Thomas Hassold (Hassell) came from Pennsylvania about this time bringing withhim Thomas Snowden, Mary and Thomas Hassold, Jr. William Barclift proved rightsfor himself, Sarah Beasley, James, and Johanna Beasley, Richard and SarahChastone (Chesson). The third court held in the precinct of Perquimans, convened at the sameresidence, with Justices present; Major Alexander Lillington, Mr. Henry White (aQuaker who came to Perquimans from Surry County, Virginia, where he purchasedland from John Troy of Surry, June 9, 1655), Mr. Thomas Lepper, Mr. John Barrow,Esquires. At this sitting of court Ann Parish, formerly Jacocks (wife of Thomasof Little River), acknowledged a deed of gift to her son, John Huffton. ThomasHassold entered land on Northeast side of Perquimans River, between the lands ofSamuel Pricklove, and Thomas Attoway. During the session of the court ElizabethArnold petitioned the court to the effect that Lawrence Arnold her deceasedhusband had bequeathed his estate unto their son John, which was to be turnedover to him when he reached the age of thirteen years, prayed for a guardian tobe appointed in the person of Jonathan Bateman, whom she later married for hersecond husband. Thomas Hassold presented a petition showing that Thomas Snoden,a child, was left with him by his father-in-law, Edmund Pirkins, and that saidchild was bound to him until he was twenty-one years old. Court November 6, 1694, at Mrs. Diana Fosters; same Justices present. Petitionpresented by Mr. John Hunt (who lived in Little River), showing that "Mrs AnnDurant held in her possession books and papers belonging to the estate of MrWilliam Therrill," prayed that they be turned over to him, he being the onlyliving Executor, which was granted. George Durant, husband of said Ann, in hislife time was Executor for Mr. William Therrill, who was one of his followersduring the rebellion of 1677-79. William Therrill in his will probated inPerquimans County, speaks of George Durant of "Berty Point," and said Therrillhimself lived on Little River. Thomas Gilliam appeared in the court and accused Robert White and Vincent, hisson, with grand larceny. The court ordered that a penalty be imposed upon thetwo of having the letter "T" branded in the hand which was duly executed.Augustine Scarbrough entered 300 acres of land on Powells Point Neck. ThomasHaskins (Hoskins) appeared in court for the first time. Elizabeth Banks ofLondon appointed "beloved friends ffrancis Tomes and John Hawkins" attorneys torecover money and goods due from the estate of Seth Sothel, late Governor ofCarolina. Thomas White, and Diana, his wife (late wife of William Foster),entered a suit against John Wilson. These two were continually in litigationwith some one in the precinct. Jurors appointed for their case; William Jackson,Robert Moline (Modlin), John Belman (who immigrated to Perquimans from SurryCounty, Va.), Uriah Cannon, John Raper, Thomas Gilliam, and John Barrow,foreman. (Thomas Gilliam also came from Surry County, Va., to Perquimans.) A General Court was held at the house of Mr. Thomas White (he having marriedDiana Poster, widow of William Foster, nee Manners), September 25, 1694, withHonorable Thomas Harvey, presiding. Major Alexander Lillington in behalf of JohnWright of Virginia brought suit against Thomas Haskins (Hoskins) for debt. OnSeptember 26, Honorable Thomas Harvey, Esquire, present Deputy Governor of thisProvince, and Councilors; "ffrancis Tomes, Benjamin Lakar, Major Samuel Swann,Coll. Thomas Pollock, Daniel Akehurst, Esquires, and Captain Anthony Dawson, andMr. John Durant, assistants. At this sitting of court the will of Coll. FrancisHartley was probated, and Mrs. Susanna Hartley chosen as Administratrix of hisestate. Mary Lamb, widow of Joshua, who had migrated to Perquimans from New England incourt on legal business. Thomas Welch, indentured servant of Mr. JosephCommander prayed for his freedom, which was granted. September 28, 1694. Major Samuel Swann proved rights, himself, wife, Sarah(daughter of William Drummond), William, Samuel, Samson, Henry, and ThomasSwann, and Elizabeth Hunt; negroes Tom, Mary, Hanah, Eliza, and Jane, fortransportation of which he received 650 acres of land on the Sound in Perquimansprecinct. November 29, 1694, Daniel Phillips received an appointment and became DeputyMarshall of Perquimans. A list of tithables was exhibited in court numbering 787souls, and a levy of five shillings was imposed upon each person therein named.On February 25, 1694/5 Anne Ward petitioned the court for administration onestate of her deceased husband Francis Ward, which was granted. ElizabethBateman, widow of Jonathan, craved her third part of her husband's estate, hisson Jonathan being Executor. Jacob Overman proved rights for himself, Dorothy,Jacob, Junior, Tho., Ephrim, Margery, Charles, and Ann Overman. Diana White(petition) for her son, John Harris, same court, prayed for his estate. February 27, 1695, the will of Mrs. Ann Durant was proven by oath of Jno.Clapper and Elinor Moline (Modlin), and Thomas Durant was made Executor, March1, 1695. James Ward and Hanah', his wife, relict of Richard Stiball were grantedExecution the estate of said Stiball. Major Samuel Swann, Surveyor, for theProvince of Carolina, brought suit against Benjamin Laker for non-payment of hisfee, he having surveyed 1500 acres for said Laker, which was dismissed. In 1696 the records show that there were in Carolina sixty or seventyscattered families, settled principally along the water front for twenty milesup Little River shore, and around to Perquimans River. The inlet of Roanoke wasfrequented by small vessels trading to and from the West India Islands, andpirates and run-away slaves resorted to this place from Virginia. (ColonialRecords, Vol. I, page 467.) John Archdale was Governor of Carolina at this time, the only Quaker to holdsuch a high office. He favored his own sect, and his constituents became flushwith appointments to every known position in his power to bestow, but he made awise forbearing just reign with the colony enjoying peace and security under hisbenign rule. Honorable Francis Jones, Benjamin Laker, Major Samuel Swann, andThomas Harvey, Esquires, Lords Deputies during the incumbency of Archdale. January Court, 1696/7 was "holden" at the house of Thomas Nichols, withJustices present; Mr. John Godfrey, Caleb Calleway, Captain Ralph Fletcher, JohnBarrow, and Samuel Nicholson. James Oates appeared for the first time at thiscourt. Rights were proven by Thomas Speight, for himself, John Morres (Morris),Elizabeth, John, Junior, William, and Mare Morres. Denis Maclenden proved rightsfor himself, Rebecca Carpenter, Elizabeth Brient, Denis Francis, and ThomasMaclenden. Abraham Williams rights for himself, wife Anne, and Edward, and JohnWilliams. Peter Jones brought suit in this court. In March, 1696/7, John Stepneytook oath as Clerk of Perquimans. Court at the house of Mr. Thomas Blount April, 1697, with Justices present;Caleb Calleway, Judge Captain Ralph Fletcher, Mr. John Barrow, Mr. John Godfrey,Mr. John Whedby and Mr. Samuel Nicholson. Richard Nowel and Ellener, his wife,acknowledged a deed of gift to their daughter, Allis. Mr. John Whedby did thesame for his two children, Richand and Deborah. John Lilly, Robert Harmon andJonathan Tailor were appointed constables of the precinct. Court met at the house of James Oates January, 1698, at which time TimothyClare was appointed "Keeper of the Toole Bookes of Piquemons on West sid, andIsaack Wilson on ye East Sid." Tolls had become necessary on account of vagrantpersons pilfering cattle from the herds of their neighbors, and driving theminto Virginia for sale, therefore a law was passed that each animal, cattle, hogor sheep should be marked to prevent thievery. April, 1698, court at same place. William Bogue appointed constable "from yeNarrows of piquemons to Suttens Creek, and to Mr. Lakars Crick on ye West Side." Court at Mr. James Oates October, 1698, with Hon'ble Thomas Harvey, DeputyGovernor, presiding. The Court of January, 1699, came to order at the samehouse. John Parish was appointed overseer of the highway "from the ferry to MrWhedbys path." It is to be deplored that the "ferry" here spoken of is notbetter designated. In October of the same year a "Grate brig" is mentioned overthe head of Perquimans River, where James Perrisho served as overseer. Thisbridge was probably the same later called "Newbys Bridge" and crossed the Riverbeyond Belvidere going to Piney Woods. An Assembly was held at the house of Mr. James Oates January, 1699-1700. Mr.James Cole received permission to build a "Mill at the head of Indian Crick"during the sitting of this court. Court at Mr. James Oates house April, 1700, when William Moore proved rightsfor transporting himself, and wife Elizabeth into this country. Court at sameplace October, 1700. Daniel Hall and wife Rose appeared in court. James Oateswas dead October 6,1703. His will was probated January, 1704, and names sonJoseph, and wife, Elizabeth, another legatee Jonathan Evins. Elizabeth Oates wasa daughter of John Wyatt and wife Rachel Calloway. The ages of their childrenare given in Berkeley Parish Register as follows: John, born August 7, 1697;John (first by name), born February 4, 1667; Jesse, born August 31, 1669; Mary,born November 16, 1672. Joseph Oates moved from Perquimans to Beaufort County. Court at the house of Captain Anthony Dawson April 8, 1701, at which timeCaptain Ralph Fletcher had been advanced to the office of Judge of the precinct.Justices Samuel Nicholson, Francis Foster, James Cole, and Samuel Charles. Thenext court July 81, 1701, at same house, Robert Inkrsone "sheweth that WalterSestion is ded Haven Made No Will" prays for administration on his estate"having married Rellock of said Sestion." John Pricklo petitioned the court that"ffrancis Bedson (Belson) Lay Sick at His _____ (House). A long time, who diedand was Buried At His on Cost, now prays for Custodie of his Estate." Court was "Holden at ye Gran Court House for ye precinct of Per-quimons yeSecont tues In October 1701." Major Samuel Swann and Elizabeth, his wife (secondwife, daughter of Alexander Lillington), acknowledged a deed to Samuel Swann,Jr. John Hecklefield petitioned the court "Shewen that George Prody Is deadHaven Maide No Will" and prays for management of his estate. Samuel Philips andJames Chesen petitioned the court for their share of a crop made while livingwith John Lilly, and it was ordered that said Samuel should have "full Sheareand Chesen a Halfe Sheare." John Hecklefield had just arrived in Carolina and hemade choice of Little River as his future home. Court was held at his house fora number of years and an Assembly in 1707. On April, 1702, court at the house ofCaptain James Coles. Peter Albertson "sheweth that John Lilly was indebted toAnn Jones Now his Wife, and James Oates was ordered to pay to said AlbertsonTenn Shillings and six pence." At same session of court Sarah Harris chose asher guardian her uncle, Nathaniel Albertson. Mrs. Mary Swann (wife of SamuelSwann, Jr.), proved his will in Court at Capt. James Coles' October, 1702. Thewill of Albert Albertson was probated during the same Court by Mary, his widow,and sons, Albert, Peter, and Nathaniel. At this Court Thomas Winslow "Proved onWrite for his freedom An Assigned it to Timothy Clar." Soon after this date hemarried Elizabeth Clare, daughter of Timothy, and it seems certain he was anapprentice to said Clare, and had just come of age. A "Gen'll Court was held at the House of Captain John Hecklefield in LittleRiver, October 27, 1702. The function of this Court appears to have been on thesame basis of our present day Supreme Court. Those of note present at thissession were Honorable Samuel Swann, Esquire; Honorable William Glover, Esquire;John Jenkins, Esquire; William Duckenfield (whose home was in Bertie County),who came to prosecute a suit against Thomas Evins. Henderson Walker was Governor of the Province, April 24, 1703. Peter Godfreywas appointed Clerk of Perquimans, January 1702/3, at which time Captain JohnStepney turned over the books, while Samuel Swann administered the oath to thenew Clerk, being secretary of the Court. Governor Walker had sworn in three newjustices, Samuel Swann, Prances Toms, and William Glover. Court at Captain James Coles February 2, 1703. Hannah Snellen, widow ofIsrael, acknowledged a deed to her "Chelldren," Rachel and Esther. Soon afterthis date she became the wife of Timothy Clare, his third and last wife. SarahHarris made choice of her grandmother, Mary Albertson, as her guardian. Court at same place March 9, 1703, when William Turner made over a patent ofland unto James Newby and wife, Sarah, and they sold it to James Foster. At thesame court the orphans of Thomas and Mary Hancocke were bound to Gabriel Newby.This is the first mention of any one by the name of Newby in the courtproceedings of Perquimans, and from that fact they seem to have recently arrivedin Carolina. At this court Eza (Esau) Albertson was "Sworne Constable, from the hithermostpart of Little River to the lower side of Suttons Creeke." Lawrence Arnold (2)had the embarrassing experience of having a child sworn to him out of wedlock byJeane Richards, servant of John Hecklefield. John West, brother-in-law of theorphans of Lewis Alexander and Esther Knight, was ordered to take them withEmanuel Knight under his cere. A second General Court came to order on March 29, 1703, at the house ofCaptain John Hecklefield; Councilors present: Honorable William Glover, ThomasSymons, Richard Plater and William Collins, Esquires. An account of the estateof John Harvey, Esquire, was presented in Court by Mr. Christopher Gale. Thewill of Samuel Pricklove was probated by oath of Francis Penrice and JohnAnderson. Mr. Henry Baker of Virginia brought suit against William Early fordebt; thereupon he appointed his "good friend" Samuel Swann, Esquire, ofCarolina attorney to collect all delinquencies due him from said Early. AnotherGeneral Court at Captain John Hecklefield's house on July 27, 1703, when saidHecklefield sued Captain Richard Sanderson for �10 due him. He also attached theestate of Daniel Phillips, and levied a second attachment against WilliamNicholson's estate. John Eavans made petition in this court. Thomas Dewham(Derham) of Bath was arraigned in Court for the murder of William Hudson, whohad been slain September preceding, for which crime he was sentenced to bebranded on the brawn of the left hand with the letter M, but he appears to havebeen released from the cruel punishment by the following Court. Court was held on April 11, 1704, at the house of Dennis Macclenden. Some ofthe inhabitants of Carolina mentioned as being in Court were James Beesley(Beasley) and Mary, his wife, Francis Wells and David Harris, and wife,Elizabeth. Constance Snowden, wife of Thomas relinquished her dower right inland unto John Bateman, and Thomas Evans and Mary, his wife, acknowledged a deedmade by them to Thomas Snowden. A petition was presented in Court by JamesThigpen, showing the need of a road "to be cleared from the ferry out to theHigh Road." Court same house July 11, 1704. William Morgan brought suit against DavidHarris for "Defamacon and Aspersing words, he having said Thee art a Rogue andHe prove itt." This defamation of character proving to be pure slander, thecourt ruled that the defendant should cast himself upon the mercy of the Courtand pay all cost. John White and Alice were defendants in a case. About thistime roads became a crying need and many resolutions appear on the Court recordsauthorizing new roads or clearing and straightening old ones, therefore the oldroad from Lakars Creek was ordered to be cleared and Caleb Calleway wasappointed overseer. William Williams proved rights for himself and at the nextsession of court his wife Susannah appointed friend Dennis Macclenden her attorney. On January 1, 1704/5, Colonel William Wilkinson and Hester, his wife, byThomas Snowden, their attorney, brought suit against Johannah Taylor, Executorof the estate of William Boyce, deceased, for two rings belonging to saidSusannah. Richard Skinner became overseer of the highway "in Room of FrancisBeasley." Court at the house of Dennis Macclenden April 1, 1705, at which date ThomasSnowden was appointed "Clearke of Court for Perquimans precinct." The Courtrecords name the fact that about this date Deborah Whidby (daughter of John),became the wife of Henry Bonner. January 6, 1705. Court at Dennis Macclenden's. Isaac Wilson proved rights, for"Importacon" of Mary Brasinan (Brassuer) Elizabeth Brasman, John Morris, JamesWhite, Anne Barker, George Baite and wife, Rebeccah Ratcliffe, Joseph Canerle,Richard Turner, William Barnstable, John Hooks, Isaac and Abraham Ricks, forwhich he was awarded 1200 acres of land in Perquimans Precinct. Ralph Boasman,who immigrated to Perquimans from Surry County, Virginia, had rights proven forimporting Samuel, Elizabeth, Mercy, and Susannah Bond, Matthew Potter, SarahJohnson, and Luke Grace. James Nuby was allowed 300 acres of land for thetransportation of John, Magdalen, Elizabeth, and James Newby. He took up land inPasquotank County where he died. As soon as this 300 acres was entered heimmediately conveyed it to Isaac Wilson of Perquimans. Mrs. Deborah Whedbee, widow of John, married second Dennis Macclenden, and itwas at her house that Court was held July 9, 1706, the presumption beingadmissible that she was a widow for the second time. The Justices present atthis Court were James Cole, Thomas Long, Joseph Sutton, Senior, William Long,Esquires. Ezekiel Maudlin, deceased, his wife, Hannah, being Administratrix.Ralph Bosman was appointed Constable. Ordered that John Parish, Francis Beesleyand Samuel Phelp be "packers" for this precinct, "John Parish from the head ofLittle River to the mouth thereof and soe around up Pequimins River to LillysCreek," and Francis Beasley and Samuel Phelps for the remainder of the precinct. Plainly this demonstrates the fact that along the bank of Little River and themouth of Perquimans the settlers were more thickly congregated than further uptowards the interior. Samuel Phelps was ordered to "keep the Toll Booke att theHead of Pequimins River." Mr. James Minge appears for the first time at a Court August 8,1696, held atthe house of James Thigpen, proving rights for himself, his wife, Ruth (neeLaker), and eight negroes for which he secured 1000 acres of land. His landsituated in Harveys Neck ran along the bank of what is now called "Minsie" Creekthen and later named in deeds as Ming Creek. Richard Turner proved rights andhad 450 acres of land turned over to him for importing himself, wife, Bridget,William Barnstable, Elizabeth Turner (who married ____ Newby), John Turner andJohn Hooks. Edward "Wilson was appointed constable "in Room of John Davenport."Among the Justices present only two, James Cole and John Stepney, could signtheir own names, all the others making marks. A letter written by John Holden March 21, 1707, to the Lords of Trade,deplores the fact that "Carolina was barred by Inlets which spoil trade, as nonebut small vessels from New England and Barbadoes are able to cross theseobstructions." He further asserts that "the soil of Albemarle is more lusty"than that of South Carolina, producing in abundance tobacco, corn, wheat, andthat the cattle, hogs and sheep thrive in the open all winter. This could havebeen no exaggeration as the same is the case at the present day. Commoditiessuch as hides, tar, furs, beaver, otter, fox, wild cat, and deer skins wereplentiful. Leather, herbs and drugs were some of the exportations at quite anearly date. An affidavit made by Robert Lawrence of Nansemons County, Virginia,asserted that he was 69 years old, being seated about 47 years upon a plantationon South West side of Chowan River, where he had lived for the past seven yearsand that he was well acquainted with the boundary lines of those rivers. An Assembly met at the House of Captain John Hecklefield in Little RiverOctober 11, 1708, where were gathered nine representatives from Chowan, two fromPasquotank of Quaker choosing, five from Currituck, with the number fromPerquimans not designated. Mr. Edward Moseley was chosen Speaker of the House.The country became torn and rent with dissatisfaction as another rebellioncalled the Cary Rebellion arose like a monster causing distrust and discontentamong the struggling colonists. This rebellion was at its height in 1709-10,when the country had hardly recovered from the dissention of 1677-79, proved agreat hardship on those peacefully minded and disrupted the governemnt. Rev. John Rainsford who had been selected to serve the Church of England inCarolina received a letter of warning from Mr. Hyde about this time whichpurported in part "that he would not have him discouraged by misrepresentationsmade by Mr. Urmstone (John), who will be loud in complaining, but thedissatisfaction of said person is in the greater part owing to himself, as hisunfortunate temper in no way suits the natual born people of America, who werenot to be won by any thing but gentle methods, and he by his railings and morosedisposition had driven the people from the Church." This dissatisfaction on thepart of Church of England people had augmented the ranks of the Quakers, andnumbers of Church people had gone over to the new religion. The last Council to convene in Perquimans was held at the house of CaptainJohn Hecklefield in Little River July 4, 1712. No date appears to justify theassertion but it was probably about this date that "Phelps Point" became theseat of Precinct Court. However the earliest authenticated sitting of Court onthe Point is 1735, but the Assembly passed an Act for a Court House to beerected thereon in 1722. Many persons were summoned to Court on Phelps Pointsoon after this date. A Council was held at the house of Honorable Edward Hyde, Governor, andCaptain General, June 2, 1712, in Chowan County. Governor Hyde died September 8,1712, of a violent fever. His death left the colony in a deplorable condition ata time when they were facing a barbarous enemy, confronted with a scarcity ofprovisions, and worst of all a divided people. A great misfortune had befallenthem, with no strong hand to lead through the troubled waters. September 12, 1712, Edward Wilson "Dead without a will," his wife, Sarah, anddaughter, Elizabeth Wiatt, nearest of kin with Daniel Jones (who had marriedanother daughter), Executors. For a period of nine years no precinct Court records are to be found while theprecinct was readjusting its broken order into some form of stability, afterrecent disorders. The house of Mrs. Elizabeth French was honored by the sittingof this Court, as John Hecklefield had passed to his great reward, and her homebecame the regular meeting place for several years. She may have been the widowof John Hecklefield, but if so this made her fourth marriage. The Minute books and loose papers give ample proof that a well organized ferrywas in use between two points of land called Phelps Point, and Newbys Pointbefore 1735. On Newbys Point Nathan Newby supervised the "setting over" ofpersons who wished to cross the River and in like manner Jonathan Phelpsdispensed the same act of courtesy, both being paid a stipend by the county fortheir services. The town of Hertford was laid out on land sold to the county byJonathan Phelps in 1749, which by Act of Assembly had been authorized to becalled Hertford, having as Directors of said town John Harvey, John Clayton andNathan Newby. Jonathan Phelps had died before this date, and his son Benjaminnow had charge of the "Ferry." Nathan Newby lived at "Bear Garden on theopposite side from Hertford, and here it was that Gideon Newby in 1784 made adeed for land (75 acres) Nigh the Float Bridge Road" showing that a float bridgewas in use across Perquimans River at that date. By Act of Assembly October, 1739, a tax of 2 shillings 6 pence was levied uponeach "Tythable for the purpose of building a Publick Goal" and Nathan Newby wasordered to make a "Good sufficient double Door to the Prison of Oak Planks andprovide a Good Lock to be fixed in the Middle of the Door with a Good Bolt"April, 1754, and John Weeks was appointed "Keeper of the Common Goal on November12, 1760. Zachariah Chancey made a charge against Gabriel Newby of Perquimans in CourtAugust 6, 1735, his petition setting forth; that said Newby had used "wickedBoastful Malitious Scanderlous and Oprobius English words" against said Chanceythereby causing him great unrest, and that he felt himself to be "in danger ofmuch harm of his good name and Office, praying the Court to administerPunishment either Corporal or Pecuniary" that he be hereafter deterred from likelibelious words. Another Act of Assembly provided that each person in Perquimans Precinctshould be taxed for the "'Building of a publick warehouse as by Law Directed" ofthe following dimensions: 12 feet high, 18 feet wide, 25 feet long, and MacroraScarbrough and Nathaniel Caruthers were appointed to "Manage" and agree withproper persons to build said warehouse as soon as possible. Nathan Newby (2) was deceased on October 18, 1762, when Seth Sumner was chosenin his place as one of the Directors of the town of Hertford. An Act of Assembly July, 1755, for "Establishing a Ferry from Newbys Point toPhelps Point Whereon the Courthouse Now Stands on Perquimans River" makes plainthe fact that the Court had moved from Little River to Hertford some time beforethis date, in fact no Court had convened in a private dwelling since the oneheld in the house of Mrs. Elizabeth French in 1721. Jonathan Phelps and Nathan Newby were each allowed by the county �4 per annumfor "Setting over ferry free Inhabitants of this county at Court times ElectionsMembers of Assembly, Vestrymen and Musters in said county." Jonathan Phelps wasgranted "Lycences to keep an Ordinary at his Now Dwelling house on Phelps Pointon same date." Nathan Newby (2) was ordered by the Court to "Erect and Compleat a warehouseon the Courthouse Lot for Inspection of Tobacco on Phelps Point" the dimensionsof same to be as follows: "30 feet long, 20 feet wide with 7 1/2 pitcht, aSquair Roof weather boarded with half Inch plank well bailed with tenpennyNails, well Shingled with hart Sypress Shingles two feet long Nailed with 8penny Nails to be Completed by November 1,17�" for which he received �37.William Skinner and James Sitterson were appointed Inspectors of tobacco. JohnHarvey and Joseph White were ordered to "Supply Steel yards and other NecessaryMaterials for said Inspectors." (Minute book, Perquimans County, 1755.) A motion was made by Richard Cheston in Court July 3, 1740, for laying out aroad from Newbys Point to the main road leading to Morgans. Granted. This road appears to be the same which now runs from the Causeway to Winfall.Zachariah Nixon, Richard Cheston and James Morgan, Senior, were appointed to layoff the road. On the same date Mary Newby, widow, petitioned the court that her"Tithables be taken off the main road to labour on the ferry road, it being moreConvenient to me than the main road and I can better tend the ferry if anyperson Comes to be Set over my lands being on that road Can Set them over soshall get no Blame." (Petition granted.) Mary Newby (nee Toms, wife of Nathanfirst) was required to give bond after the death of her husband in 1735 for themaintenance of the ferry between her Point and where the ferry landed on thePhelps Point side. She exhibited her husbands will in Court, July, 1735. Soonafter his death she married Samuel Moore. Her son, Nathan (2), continued tooperate the ferry, which was later cared for by Samuel Pretlow who married hiswidow. Jonathan Phelps, who had charge of the ferry on the Hertford side, diedbefore January, 1769, when Francis Nixon in behalf of Benjamin Phelps, his son,petitioned the Court showing that about January 1, 1767, he had rented the ferryand ferry house in the town of Hertford and by Order of Court for six years oncondition that the highest bidder should pay the rent yearly which had been bidoff to Hatten Williams in behalf of William Newbold, now in possession, whofailed to pay the rent, and said Nixon now prayed for the use of said premisesfor four years. This Francis Nixon had married the widow of Nathan Newby (2).She being Kesiah Pierce, daughter of Thomas, and having for her third husbandSamuel Pretlow. Dorothy Phelps (nee Jordan daughter of Matthew Jordan of Isle ofWight County, Virginia), wife of Jonathan had by him son, Benjamin, and adaughter, Dorothy. The widow of Jonathan Phelps married second John Skinner, andhe is found at a later date keeping the ferry. A petition was brought in Court by Evan Skinner (no date) praying for leave tobuild a "House of Entertainment on the Lott and a half of ground Laid out forPublick Buildings, as are convenient and Necessary for Man or Horse," which wasgranted. The location of this house is uncertain. Thomas Nicholson, being guardian for Joseph McAdams, prayed the Court for anOrder to "run a ferry over to Nixonton which might prove of great ease to thepublick," and also petitioned the Court "that said Orphans' slaves be exemptfrom working on the publick road rather putting their labor on the road" thatleads to Nags Head Chappel. (No date.) The "Inhabitants of Old Neck complainedthat they were at great hardship for want of a road, and prayed the Court tohave one cleared from Francis Toms Bridge to the mouth of Suttons Creek." Thefollowing persons were assigned to keep the road in order: Richard Sanders,Aaron Albertson, Joseph Ratcliff, Samuel Parks, Christopher Sutton, Thos.Pierce, and Joseph Newby. The records mention a "Landing" at the mouth ofSuttons Creek on the south side, and it is possible that the road here spoken ofis the same still traceable through the woods past the Martin Towe home straightto the Creek. The road is now impassable. The "Inhabitants on the North side of Orepeak Swamp" prayed the Court for aroad to be cleared "at the path Now going over the Swamp to the County line byJames Sumners into the main road" which was granted. Benjamin Phelps gave bond July 20, 1774 "to keep an Ordinary (Lodging house)at his now dwelling house" and pledged himself to "Constantly Provide goodwholesome Cleanly Lodging and Dyet for Travellers and Stable foder and corn forhorses," for the term of one year. Petitioners: Joseph Robinson, Thomas Newby, Nathan Newby, Cornelius Moore,John Murdaugh, Francis Newby, Merchants and traders from Perquimans to theColony of Virginia, Sheweth: that Moses Eason, a planter obtained an order ofCourt for turning up the road below the Mill dam, over Bassetts Swamp on themain road leading to Virginia, claiming it would shorten the way, and saidpetitioners find it is at least a mile and a half further, and before the winterwill be impassable, prays for an order for the road to have its former position.July, 1760. This road passed through what is now Gates County and may have beenthe same route taken by the present road called "the Virginia Highway." The Kings Quit Bents were paid at Deep Creek and Charles Denman was treasurerof Perquimans precinct. Macrora Scarbrough, one-time treasurer, was accused ofbeing "a high criminal" by a complaint laid before the Assembly, 1744. JamesCastellaw preferred the charge and the next day Scarbrough appeared in Court andresigned. A petition from citizens of Perquimans brought before the Assembly, 1756,praying the body to lay off 100 acres on Phelps Point for a town and towncommon, but the town does not appear to have been really incorporated until1759. The Point boasted a Court House long before this date which seems to havestood on the point where the warehouse was built, but no positive proof can befound to substantiate the fact. It is claimed by old citizens that in theirmemory a deep depression like a large ditch came up from the River as far as thebusiness section of the town, and that a wharf built at the end of Grubb streetbrought and carried the commerce to and from outside cities. If this be true the"warehouse" above mentioned may very well have been located on the River back ofthe present Court House and still have been on the Court House lot, which publicground was not at so long a period of time ago much larger than it is at thepresent time, embracing all the land from the corner of Grubb Street to thecorner where Blanchards store now stands. The County gradually sold off lots ofthe public ground, and streets and sidewalks took up more until the Court HouseGreen became a square, surrounded by business structures as at present. Public warehouses doing business in Perquimans in 1764 appear to have been atCypress Bridge, Hertford, Sanders Landing, John Barrows, Yeopin Creek, SethSumners, Little River Bridge, Judge Barclifts (Durants Neck), and JosephSuttons, the last at the mouth of Suttons Creek. Col. John Harvey commanded the Militia in 1776. Rev. Charles Pettigrew writingto the Home Mission Board in England, said he was taken into Perquimans andofficiated in Berkeley Parish where there were five Chapels, at which hepreached and was paid by voluntary contribution. Miles Harvey was appointedColonel of Militia by the September Congress, 1775; William Skinner, LieutenantColonel; Thomas Harvey and Richard Clayton, Majors. Perquimans County raised aCompany of Minute Men in the Revolutionary War. This county was a stronghold of Quakers, and was one of the four which wasdivided in 1672, becoming at that date Perquimans Precinct. In April, 1776,Benjamin Harvey, Junior, and Edmund Blount were appointed to gather all arms tobe found in the county for the use of troops, fifty of which were sent underguard, commanded by Captain William Moore to the defense of Wilmington. JohnHarvey was Speaker of the Provincial Congress at New Bern, 1774, 1775, 1776.Other members from Perquimans: Andrew Knox, Thomas Harvey, John Whedbee, Junior,Joseph Jones, Miles Harvey, Benjamin Harvey, William Skinner, Charles Blount,Charles Moore, William Hooper. Councilors: 1776-1868, John Skinner, HenrySkinner; State Treasurer, William Skinner; Superior State Judge Jonathan B.Albertson; State Senator, 1777, William Skinner; Representatives, BenjaminHarvey, John Harvey; Members of Constitutional Convention, 1788-1875, SamuelJohnson, William Skinner, Joshua Skinner, Thomas Harvey, John Skinner, JosephHarvey, Benjamin Perry, Ashbury Sutton, Jonathan H. Jacocks. Members of theAssembly: Joseph Jessop, Thomas Speight, Charles Denman, Samuel Phelps, MacroraScarbrough, Richard Skinner, Marmaduke Norfleet (He lived in that part ofPerquimans cut off into Gates), Zebulon Clayton, Richard Sanderson, Joshua Long,Thomas Weeks, Joseph Sutton, James Sumner, Nathaniel Caruthers, William Wiatt,Tully Williams, George Durant, Luke Sumner, Jobn Harvey, Benjamin Harvy, FrancisBrown, Thomas Bonner, William Maekey, Charles Blount, Seth Sumner, Andrew Knox,John Skinner, Nathaniel Williams, John Whedbee. Before 1740. The first Tax list found in Perquimans was one taken by Edward Hall in 1729.This list is interesting from the fact that it mentions the acreage of eachperson named on the list. They are given in rotation as follows: Jeremiah Suttonwith 50 acres; John Leary, 100 acres; Edward Hall, Jr., ____; Nathan Long, 150acres; Zebulon Pratt, 46 acres; John Smith, 75 acres; Ann Wilson, 100 acres;Robert Roe, 50 acres; Elisha Stone, _____; William Arkill, 167 acres; Thos.Thatch, 96 acres; Zebulon Calleway, 50 acres; Joseph Barrow, 300 acres; LukeWhite, 50 acres; Spencer Thach, 100 acres; Andrew Donaldson, 175 acres; JohnWyatt, _____; Mary Whidbee, 66 1/2 acres; William Clemons, 240 acres; BenjaminSanders, 1019 acres; William Creecy, 250 acres; William Arrington, 160 acres;Jobn Barrow, 200 acres; Nathan Skinner, 55 acres; Thos. Simmons, 130 acres;William Stepney, 350 acres; John Sanders, 162 acres; Frederick Luten, 223 1/2acres; Willis Butler, 140 acres; Richard Cale, 140 acres; Bailey Forbes, 399acres; Lemuel Forbes, _____; Thomas Harmon, 209 acres; Leven Thach, 72 1/2acres; John Johnson, 50 acres; John Nixon, 236 acres; Jesse Bunch, 50 acres,Malachi Deal, ______; James Brinkley, 507 acres; Levy Creecy, 231 1/2 acres;William Mullen, 50 acres; James Bush, 50 acres; Nathaniel Bratton, 152 acres;Francis Sutton, 50 acres; Leven Scot, 100 acres; William Long, 466 acres; LemuelLong, 50 acres; Richard Hatfield, 207 acres; Jeremiah Doe, _____; William Jones,Jr., 113 1/2 acres; Thos. Long, 103 1/2 acres; Reuben Long, 143 acres; JosephThach, 100 acres; John Collins, 120 acres; Christopher Collins, 104 acres;Joseph Mathias, 125 acres; Isacher Branch, 50 acres; William Branch, 156 1/2acres; Benjamin Bratton, 210 acres; John Lumsford, 100 acres; Henry Hall, 125acres; John Wingate, _____; Richard Skinner, 492 1/2 acres; Thos. Stacey, 50acres; Thos. Creecy, 337 acres; Eri Barrow, 200 acres and six negroes; EdwardWingate, 50 acres; Job Miller, 260 acres; William Jones Joiner, Thos. Whedbee,133 acres; Frederick Halsey, 100 acres; William Standin, 286 acres; JosephNorcom, 322 acres; Joseph Harvey, 297 acres; Peleg Lawton, 200 acres; Burton (?)Harvey, 500 acres; Robert Harvey, 300 acres; William Jones, Sr., 130 acres;Ezekeil Arrenton, 170 acres; Stephen Skinner, 15 acres; Isaac White, 133 1/2acres, Charles W. Miller, ____; Delight Nixon, 416 acres; William Weston, 50acres; Arodi Barrow, 25 acres; James White, 150 acres; Benjamin Smith, 139acres; Jeremiah Collins, 100 acres; Ann Skinner, 200 acres; Gray Spruel, 226acres; James McClenny, 50 acres; Mary Pratt, 33 1/2 acres; William White, 477acres; Sarah White, 800 acres; Thos. Parramore, 100 acres; Richard Hatfield, 691/2 acres; John Skinner, 850 acres; Mary Harvey, 800 acres; Joshua Skinner, 550acres; Jonathan Pearson, 52 acres; Thomas Harvey, Esquire, 379 acres and 18 townlots, 15 blacks, Thomas Harvey, 588 acres; Benjamin Harvey, 700 acres; (12blacks each); Joseph Gilbert, 100 acres; Sarah Skillings, 2 town lots and twoblacks; Charles Moore, Jr., 242 acres and six blacks; Samuel Penrice, ____;Joshua Long, 621 1/2 acres, Charles Pettigrew, 750 acres and ten blacks; WilliamSkinner, 851 1/2 acres; Thos. Jones Estate, 400 acres. A list of house-holders as taken by John Perry, 1744: Francis Jones, RalphFletcher, Zachariah Nixon, Samuel Moore, Thomas Jessop, Thomas Pierce, JosephRatclift, Aaron Albertson, Richard Sanders, John Anderson, Thomas Bateman,Arthur Albertson, Josiah Boswell, Mary Newby, Moses Elliott, John Stone, ThomasWinslow, Jr., John Mardlen, Abraham Elliott, Roger Kennion (Kenyon), JosephElliott, John Henby, Joseph Newby, Thomas Elliott, Ezekiell Maudlen, Sr., JohnLacey, Joseph and James Henby, Edward Maudlen, Robert Bogue, John Morgan, JobeHendrickson, John Byrom, John Gyor, Arthur Croxton, Rachell Peirson, Thos.Bagley, William Bogue, John More, Josioue Bugue, Moses Wood, Thomas Hollowell,Peter Peirson, Joseph Mayow, John Roberson, Joseph Winslow, Thomas Winslow, Sr.,Thomas White, Truman Moore, John Wilson, William White, Richard Rainer, JohnGriffin, Francis Jones, John Hutson, Evan Jones, Timothy Winslow, Jacob Perry,John Winslow, Sr., Jacob Elliott, John White, John Lilly, Benjamin Perry,Phillip Perry, John Middleton, James Field, John Hollowell, William Hollowell. List of Taxables taken by Thomas Weeks, J.P., 1742: Robert Cock, GeorgeGording, and sons, William and Nathaniel, Jeremiah Hendrick, Joseph Robinson,Thos. Knoles, Samuel Moore, Francis Toms, John Morris, John Guyer, Mary Newby,widow, and son, Thomas, Ezekiel Maudlin, Jane Morgan, widow, John Henby and son,Silvanus, Arthur Albertson, John Lacey, James Henby, Jr., Edward Maudlin, andsons, William and Ezekiel, Thos. Jessop, Jesse Newby, Thos. Barclift, John Mann,John Barclift, Sr., and son, John, Solomon Hendrick, David Huffton, MichaelMurphy, Thos. Montague, Josiah Raper, Benjamin Monday, and son, Thomas, Thos.Stafford, William Tomblin, Margaret Stanton, and sons, Moses and Aaron Jackson,Charles Overman, John Robinson, William Hasket, Nathaniel Welch, Isaac Hendrick,William Colson, Phineas Nixon, John Winslow, William Knoles, Thos. Godfrey andson, Thomas, Samuel Right (Wright) William Arnold, Jno. Nixon, Jno. Moore, Thos.Sharbo, Thos. Winslow and son, Job, and six slaves (Thomas Winslow, Senior),Thos. Winslow, Jr., Joseph Ratcliff, Aaron Albertson, Jno. Anderson, RachelPearson, widow, and son, Jonathan, John Perrishaw, Josiah Bundy, John Wilson,William Bundy. As has already been mentioned John Skinner, married Dorothy, widow of JonathanPhelps, who owned the land at the ferry and operated it as long as he lived. Astipend of �5 s5 p10 was paid to said John Skinner July 18, 1763, by AndrewKnox, Sheriff, of Perquimans for maintenance of the Ferry. "Having attended theferry Duly for the Year past over Perquimans River at Publick times According toOrder of Court." John Skinner and Keziah Newby petitioned the court for their"Sallery." At a Precinct Court April 18, 1754, Jacob Docton prayed the Court to exempthim from further taxation on account of "mind being impaired." Joshua Hobart didthe same thing on account of a broken Shoulder April, 1762. The inhabitants on North East Side of the head of Vossess Creek petitioned theCourt same date setting forth that they had "a long bad Road to make andmaintain from the county Road by Joseph Outlands up said Creek to a branch ofthe Creek known by the name of Reedy Branch to be laid off from John Laceys tosaid Branch and all the inhabitants that are or may Settle within saidBoundaries are expected to make and repair said Road, therefore they saidpetitioners pray to be exempt from Service on any other Road." No history of Eastern North Carolina could be complete without mentioning thenotorious pirate Teach who frequented it is supposed every navigable River thatemptied its waters into the Sound. He was an Englishman by birth and firstsettled in Virginia where he married a lady of quality in Alexandria of saidstate. He soon after began to show his brutal character and was known to havekicked this sweet lady down the stair of their home when in a white rage. Hisfirst unlawful venture proved to be blockade running, a favorite trade with himbeing bringing in negroes free of duty. When he had worn himself out in thesenefarious practices and incensed the Virginia authorities to such a pitch thatthey were ready to execute him on speedy apprehension, he fled to North Carolinaand for a while conducted himself in an exemplary manner even pruning himselfbefore the Church of England as a very pious good fellow, which caused thepeople of his new home to half way believe he had been much traduced and he mademany strong friends in Carolina who were later to repent of the association butcould not entirely shake, it off from fear. On land he appeared to be like othersea-faring men and he paid religiously the dues that were levied upon him andspent with a free hand among his neighbors and cohorts. But this good behaviorvanished as soon as the sails were spread to the breeze, his natural crueltybecoming rampant. Of all sea rovers he was the most brutal, gaining for himselfthe title of being the "thug of the sea." Perquimans records do not show anysign of his having ever lived or done any trading in the precinct and thiscounty does not lay claim to residence of his or to his having any buriedtreasure stored away in the soil of Perquimans. It is a fact, however, that twoof his sons lived apparently in this county and conveyed property in Perquimans.It is also said that he has descendants still living in the district but thewriter does not give much credence to the fact. Among prominent sons of Perquimans mention must be made of General WilliamSkinner who saved the day at Great Bridge when the Continental troops were sohard pressed by the British. This splendid man served his county as faithfullyin peace as he did in war and lies buried on a farm not far from Hertford. John Harvey, one of the early Provincial Governors, and his no less prominentson, Col. Thomas Harvey, Deputy Governor, are well established in the minds ofhistorians. Perquimans County has produced many representative men, one of whom wasCongressman T. G. Skinner. Another, Mr. Harry Skinner of Greenville, N. C, whohas distinguished himself in many fields. Also Judge Harry Whedbee, born inPerquimans, of Greenville, N. C, of whom the county is very proud. Judge Ward isanother and he rose from an humble beginning which gives him that much more tobe grateful for. In an old house near the Chowan line the mother of Judge Wardfirst saw the light of day. This house is built of boards over a foot broad andtwo and one-half inches thick put together without studdings, dovetailed at thecorners and has withstood the weather for several generations; a most remarkablepiece of workmanship in the way of architecture. There are in Perquimans manyother old homes, some of them so far off the beaten path of travel that they arenever seen unless they are specially sought. The history of most of these placesis shrouded in mystery and no one at the present day can give a detailed accountof their age or occupants. In Durants Neck still in a livable condition isstanding the old Whedbee home said to have been built in 1722. Another beautifulold home, that of Mr. James P. Whedbee, on the road to New Hope, burned not manyyears ago, is said to have had the loveliest woodwork on the interior to befound in the county. Just a few years ago the old Wood home near Hertford wentup in flames. This house was built by a family of Cannons and there is an oldburying ground near by with members of the family sleeping the long sleep. Too much can not be said for the old County of Perquimans but space forbidsenumerating all the virtues of past, present and future possibilities of thisland lying between Perquimans and Little Rivers. Out of the past arise forms long still storking before the present withdignified applause waving unlimited approval toward the growing altitude of thesmall corner of the earth which they formerly called home. And grateful heartsremember the stark necessity of these tillers of the soil and how they dug outof the Swamps a splendid prosperity; the brawn and sinew of the land her pioneermen, bent with heavy toil, bronzed by the sun, pinched with cold, ravaged bydread malaria, yearning over little ones and sickly wife who helped to bear andshare their burdens, carving out of the bare wilderness a home where the futuregenerations might live at ease. Truly may it be said that our forefathers inPerquimans laid the foundations of the progress that followed. Every soul withan ounce of patriotism should take off the hat in lowly reverence by the side ofa grave where is silently lying the remains of one of these who labored so longand so well that coming descendents could possess the land in freedom. Scores of these have vanished from our recollection by reason of their namesceasing to be recorded on the pages of time. Where they went and whence theycame is one of the unsolved secrets of the past. Some can be traced to otherparts of the world and others dropped out like a pebble dropped into the sea,but they all did their utmost to reclaim an unknown land and make it safe forus. Such names as Clare, Oates, Thigpen, Manwarring, Cheaston, Branch, Peele,Pettiver, Woolard and others too numerous to mention have long ago disappearedfrom the records. Some of them died out for lack of male issue, and the greatermajority migrated south, west and to every part of the then known land. Thetrend being ever westward carried many to the middle west and not a few wentwith the gold rush to California in 1849. Sons of Perquimans have taken root inalmost every clime, New York having claimed some of the best, with the NationalCapital a close runner for precedence. The tropics have swallowed up several ofthe most promising of our sons, and South America has taken toll of a few, infact every corner of the earth has claimed one or more who have distinguishedthemselves each in his own way. From sturdy seed has sprung good fruit, and itis a great comfort to know the sons of Perquimans wherever found have donenothing to shame a good mother. Among those who from the beginning have elected to remain in the county can becited such names as White, Wilson, Skinner, Whedbee, Blount, Wood, Modlin,Evans, Winslow, Jessop, Cox, Hollowell, Nixon, Toms, Newby, Leigh, Morgan,Smith, and many more whose names were first found on the page of history whenPerquimans first opened its doors to settlers. For over two hundred years thesepeople have considered the home land of their forefathers good enough for them,and they continue to bless the old fireside with their presence.Additional Comments:Extracted from:HISTORY OF PERQUIMANS COUNTYAs Compiled from Records Found There and ElsewhereAbstracts of Deeds from 1681 through the Revolution�Petitions, Dir-visions, andMarriages Found in Perquimans and Adjacent Counties �A brief Summary of theSettling of Perquimans, with the hind and manner of settlers�Two Maps, One ofthe Old Order, and, One a Present Day Map�Illustrations of a Few Old Residencesand Several More Modern Ones.BYMRS. WATSON WINSLOWRaleigh, North Carolina: Edwards & Broughton, 1931.File at: http://files.usgwarchives.net/nc/perquimans/history/1931/historyo/earlyinh126gms.txtThis file has been created by a form at http://www.genrecords.org/ncfiles/File size: 73.1 Kb

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