16. Thomas5 Humston, born 1770 ( Edward4, Edward3, Edward2, Edward1 ), married in Fauquier County, Virginia, September 2, 1794, Lucy Morehead, daughter of John Morehead, who was born in Fauquier County May 23, 1778. She died Dec. 1856, and is buried in the family graveyard on the home farm, about three miles west of Port Royal, Henry County, Ky.

Lucy was a descendant of Charles1 Morehead, (Morehead, John “The Morehead Family.”) a younger son of David Morehead, merchant of London, and the founder of the Virginia family, who came to Kent Island (which his father owned) about 1630. He remained there but a short time, moving to Northumberland, the original Northern Neck county. His children were William, Charles, Elizabeth, Anne, Mary, John and Winifred.

John 2 Morehead, (Price, Lucy S.M., “The Sydney-Smith and Claggett-Price Genealogy”) the youngest son of Charles, was one of the pioneer settlers of Prince William County, residing in that part which was organized into Fauquier (Groome, H.C., “Fauquier During the Propreitorship,” p. 216. Will recorded in Fauquier records.) He died in 1768, and had children: Charles, Joseph, John, Alexander, Samuel, William, Presley, Hannah Johnson, Mary Lawrence, and Elizabeth Rixey. The oldest son, Charles, and Mary Turner, his wife, were the grandparents of three governors of Kentucky: James Turner Morehead, Charles Slaughter Morehead, and General Simon Bolivar Buckner.

John 3 Morehead, a younger son, the father of Lucy Humston, was born in what is now Fauquier and lived in that county all his life. He was and extensive planter and land owner near the Cobler Mountains. No record of his marriage has been found. It is likely that his wife died prior to his death, for his will dated June 19, 1819, (“To dau. Lucy Humstand all negroes they have in their possession.” Fauquier County Records.) makes no mention of her. He had children: John, George Armistead, William, Charles, James, Betsy, Nancy, Susannah, Sarah and Lucy.

Of these children, John married Susannah Humston (No. 23), George married Sarah Humston (No. 17), and Lucy married Thomas Humston, all children of Edward Humston IV. Lucy was a woman of marked intelligence and strong character. It will be noted that she named her children and grandchildren generously after her own family. The Moreheads and Humstons were very intimate and closely related for several generations, as further perusal of this volume will show.

Thomas Humston, the oldest child of Edward and Susannah (Quarles) Humston, was born in Fauquier County, Virginia, April 16, 1770, and lived in that county until he was about 42 years old. About 1813,disposed of his property in Fauquier and crossed over the Blue Ridge Mountains into the Shenandoah Valley. He located about a half mile east of Edinburg, Va., on a farm adjoining his father’s, which was situated in the fork of the Shenandoah River and Stony Creek.

“ Edinburg was a strategic point during the Civil War. The picket lines of the opposing armies were repeatedly drawn up along the narrow banks of Stony Creek, facing each other like watching tigers. As evidence of the importance of this particular post, General Ashby, with his horse artillery, spent thirty days at and near Edinburg in March and April, 1862, and during that period engaged the enemy twenty-eight times. The Federal batteries were often planted on Academy Hill, just northeast of town, while those of Ashby would dash out of Humston’s woods and present their iron compliments from Cemetery Hill, southeast of the creek bridge.” - Wayland, John W., History of ShenandoahCounty, p. 144.

Above Edinburg on Stony Creek is the site of old Union Forge. The ledger of Arthur & Miller, merchants there 1830-1834, shows Thomas Humston doing business at the place. Union Forge Church was on the hill above the forge site. Wayland, “History of Shenandoah County”, pp.145-147.

He built a large home, which stands yet today (1943), and lived at this place about forty years. He was one of the substantial citizens of that community, but, like most of his forebears, did not take an active part in public affairs.

He had fifteen children, most of whom were reared on this farm. About 1835, his children began seeking new homes and opportunities in the newer states on the Ohio River. Within the next ten years nearly all of them had left the Valley. Thomas’s removal to Kentucky must be attributed to the desire to be near his children, for it is not often that a man of 80 changes a residence of many years. About 1852, he sold his land in Virginia, and, loading his goods in a great number of wagons, and taking his slaves, he journeyed westward to Kentucky.

After arriving there, Thomas bought a farm about three miles west of Port Royal, in Menry County, where he lived the last seven years of his long life. Four of his sons and one daughter lived in the same neighborhood. He was a Primitive Baptist in belief ad attended that church, but was probably not a member.

The old home of Thomas Humston in Shenandoah County, Virginia, stands about one mile south of Edinburg overlooking the North Fork of the Shenandoah River. Built about 1815, the house has withstood the vicissitudes of time; it is now weathered but sturdy after 165 years.

Thomas died March 1, 1857, in his eighty-seventh year, surviving his wife only about two months. He is buried on the home farm (now owned by Jesse Chilton) near Port Royal.

The marriage bond of Thomas Humston and Lucy Morehead: (Marriage record 29, Fauquier Count)

Know all men by these presents, that we Thomas Humston and John Morehead are held and firmly bound to his excellency Henry lee, Esq., Governor of Virginia, in the sum of one hundred and fifty dollars to which payment well and truly to be made to the said Lee and his successors, for the use of the commonwealth, we bind ourselves our heirs, executors, and administrators jointly and severally firmly by these presents, sealed with our seals and dated the 25 day of August 1794. Whereas there is a marriage shortly intended to be solemnized between Thomas Humston and Lucy Morehead, for which a license hath issued. Now if there be no lawful cause to obstruct the said intended marriage then the above obligation to be void, else to remain in full force.

Thomas Humston (Seal)

John Morehead (Seal)

Sealed and delivered in presence of O. Guathney.

Slave deeds, one made by Thomas Humston and his father, and another by Benjamin James to Thomas: (Fauquier County Deed Book No. 14, p. 762)

May the 20 Day 1800

Bargained and sold and delivered to Benjamin James of the County of Fauquier and State of Virginia one negroe woman named Winney aged thirty five years likewise her son named David aged four years which property we warrant and defend from the claim or claims of any person or persons whatsoever as witness of the save we have hereunto set our hands and seals Day and date above written.

Thomas Humston LS

Edward Humston Senr LS

Teste: John James, James Morgan, R. Roe

At a Court held for Fauquier County the 28 th day of July, 1800. This bill of Sale was acknowledged by the said Thomas Humston and Edward Humston to be their act and deed and ordered to be recorded.

Teste: F Brooke C.C.

May the 20 th day 1800. bargained and sold and delivered to Mr. Thomas Humstead one negroe boy named James aged ten years old November the 27 last likewise one negroe boy named Esau aged seven years old November last which sayd property I hereby warrant and defend from the claim of any person or persons whatsoever for value Received as witness my hand Day and date above mentioned.

Benjamin James

John James, B. Roe, James Morgan (Recorded July 28, 1800)

On July 6, 1808, Thomas witnessed a bill of sale for Philip Mallory, Jr., in Fauquier. In 1811 he was a security on the estate of Philip Mallory, Sr., deceased, together with his aunt, Jane Mallory

Thomas Humston purchased farm land in Shenandoah County Sept. 7, 1812, from Jacob Hoak (Shenandoah Deed Book “T”, p. 229). He bought two tracts, 150 acres and five acres additional, for the sum of $3,500. In October of 1812 he sold the land for $1,750 to his father, who in 1814 sold the tract to another son, Nathaniel, for the same consideration. Thomas’ deed to his father (Shenandoah Deed Book “U”, p. 44):

This Indenture made the twenty fourth day of October in the year of our Lord one Thousand eight hundred and twelve Between Thomas Humston and Lucy his wife of the county of Fauquier and state of Virginia of the one part and Edward Humston Senior of Shenandoah County and State of Virginia aforesaid of the other part. Witnesseth that the said Thomas Humston and Lucy his wife for and in Consideration of the sum of one thousand seven hundred and Fifty Dollars current money of the United States unto them in hand paid by the said Edward Humston Senior at or before the sealing and delivery hereof the receipt whereof they…. discharge the said Edward Humston Senior his heirs, executors & administrators by these presents the said Thomas Humston and Lucy his wife have granted bargained sold….unto the said Edward Humston….one certain tract or parcel of Land lying and being in the County of Shenandoah aforesaid on the North side of the north river of Shenandoah it being the upper part or moity of the land which the said Thomas Humston purchased of Jacob Hoak….containing one hundred and sixty one acres….In testimony whereof the said Thomas Humston and Lucy his wife have hereunto set their hands and seals the day and year first above written.

Thomas Humston (Seal)

Sealed and delivered in presence of Jacob Rinker, John Humston, Nathaniel Humston (Acknowledged and recorded April 13, 1813).

Thomas was deeded a tract of land by his father in 1815 and this was sold in 1817, as the following deed shows (Shenandoah Deed Book “X”, p. 294):

This Indenture made this tenth day of March in the year of our Lord one Thousand eight hundred and seventeen Between Thomas Humston and Lucy his wife of the county of Shenandoah of the one part and Christian Bowman of the same county of the other part. Witnesseth that the said Thomas Humston and Lucy his wife for and in consideration of the sum of one hundred and ninety pounds current money of Virginia unto them in hand paid by the said Christian Bowman….have granted….unto the said Christian Bowman his heirs and assigns a tract of land lying and being in the county aforesaid on the east side of the north river of Shenandoah containing one hundred and twenty acres (more or less) being the same tract which was conveyed to the said Thomas Humston by Edward Humston sen. By deed….In witness whereof the said Thomas Humston and Lucy his wife have hereunto set their hands and seals the day and year above written.

Thos Humston

Lucy Humston

In presence of Wm W. Payne (Recorded March 10, 1817).

Thomas bought additional land Sept. 21, 1819, from George Cooper, paying $500 for ninety-six acres (Shenandoah Deed Book “Z”, p. 344). He kept this land for a number of years, and then sold it in 1844 to his sons, Edward and George A. Humston (Shenandoah Deed Book “UU”, p. 344).

This Indenture made the 30 th day of April 1844 Between Thomas Humston of the County of Shenandoah and State of Virginia of the one part and Edward Humston and George A. Humston of the same County and State of the other part. Witnesseth that the said Thomas Humston for and in consideration of the sum of five hundred dollars current money of the United States to him in hand paid by the said Edward Humston and George A. Humston….hath granted….unto the said Edward Humston and George A. Humston their heirs and assigns a certain tract or parcel of land lying and being in the County aforesaid near the three top mountain being the same tract of land which was conveyed to said Thomas Humston by George Cooper on the 21 st day of September 1819….In witness whereof the said Thomas Humston hath hereunto set his hand and seal the day and year first above written.

Thos Humston (Seal)

(Recorded April 30, 1844)

The following deed is for the farm that Thomas Humston purchased after his arrival in Kentucky(Records of HenryCounty, Kentucky):

This Indenture made and entered into this 8 th day of January 1852, between Garland Cox of Franklin County, Ky., of the first part and Thomas Humston of Henry County, Ky., of the second part.

Witnesseth: that the said Garland Cox in consideration of thirty three hundred and eighty dollars paid and to be paid to him by the party of the second part, hath and by these presents doth bargain, sell, alien, convey and confirm unto the said Thomas Humston, and his heirs forever, the following described tract or parcel of land towit being in Henry County, Ky., on the waters of Emilys Run and bordered as follows.

Beginning at a large beech corner to James Shoots, thence N 79 W 76 ¼ poles to a stone near a small oak, corner to Shoots in Antils line, thence S 10 W 40 ¼ poles to a beech and black oak on the brow of the hill, corner to Antils and Cox, thence S 78 ¼ E 149 poles to white oak and fallen ash, Reeves original corner, thence S 50 W 33 1/3 poles to two small white oaks and walnut, thence S 56 E 101 poles to a hickory and thorn, thence N 76 ¼ E 149 poles to a natural planted rock on the side of a small drain, corner to Cravens, thence N 15 ½ W 38 ¾ poles to a blue ash and buckeye, corner to Tinge and Berry, thence W 128 ¼ poles to a red oak, corner to Tingle, thence N 10 E 20 1/3 poles to two white oaks, corner to Tingle, thence N 78 ½ W 11 poles to a hone locust, corner to Tingle, thence N 11 E 129 poles to a stone in the old road, corner to Tingle, thence S 85 E 10 ½ poles to a stone in Shoots line neat Tingle and Shoots corner, thence N 25 ½ E 58 2/3 poles to a stone seven feet above walnut, corner to Shoots, thence N 88 W 150 ½ poles to a stone corner to Shoots, thence S 10 W 148 ½ poles to beginning, containing two hundred and sixty acres more or less….in witness whereof the party of the first hereto signs his name and affixes his seal, the date first above written.

Garland x Cox

The will of Thomas Humston (Henry County Kentucky, Will Book No. 11, p. 120):

Be it remembered that this the seventeenth day of July in the year of our Lord One Thousand Eight Hundred and fifty four. I Thomas Humston of the County of Henry and State of Kentucky being in good health as usual but calling to mind the uncertainty of transitory life do make this my last will and testament touching the disposal of what temporal estate I have, hereby revoking all former wills by me made and this only to be taken as my last will and testament and none other.

Inst. 1 st. My will and desire is that my Executor hereinafter named shall make sale of a sufficiency of my personal property such as they and my wife Lucy may think best, so soon as practicable after my decease, and that the money arising therefrom shall go to pay all just debts and demands then against me.

Inst. 2 nd. I will that my daughter Polly at my decease shall have one cent over and above what I have already given her.

Inst. 3rd. I will that my daughter Lucy at my decease shall have one cent over and above what I have already given her.

Inst. 4th. I will that my daughter Nancy at my decease shall have one cent over and above what I have already given her.

Inst. 5th. I will that my daughter Elizabeth at my decease shall have one cent over and above what I have already given her.

Inst. 6 th. I will and bequeath to my dear wife Lucy all the residue of my property both real and personal during her natural life, and also my will and desire is that my said wife Lucy shall have out of said residue of my estate, four hundred dollars to be disposed at her death as she may think proper, also four bedsteads, bed and bedding, one bureau and her riding saddle.

Inst.7 th. My will is that after the decease of my said wife, that my son Charles shall have fifty dollars over and above what I have given to make him equal with some of the rest of my sons.

Inst 8 th. I will also that my son George shall have fifty dollars over and above what I have given him to make him equal.

Inst. 9 th. I will also that my son James shall have one hundred dollars over and above what I have given him to make him equal.

Inst. 10 th. Then my will and desire is that the reside of my property shall be disposed of in the following manner, Viz:

Inst. 11 th. I will that my negro man Cezar and woman Rose, choose their homes among my five sons and that son which they choose to live with take care of then and that each of my five sons shall bear their part in supporting them.

Inst. 12 th. I will after all the foregoing items in my will be complied with that all the residue of my property land and negroes and personal, be equally divided among my four sons, William G., Charles M., George A., and James A. and John Massie my son-in-law, instead of my oldest son Nathaniel Albert.

Inst. 13 th. I will that my negroes be kept by my five sons and Jno. Massie my son-in-law.

Inst. 14 th. Lastly I constitute and appoint two sons George and Charles my executors, to this my last will and testament, provided they give their attention without charge to the heirs.

Thos. Humston

(Signed in the presence of Attest Richard Johnston, William C. Martinio. Recorded February, 1857)

Issue:

26. i.  Edward6, born in Fauquier County, Virginia, about 1796.
27. ii.  Thomas M.6, born in Fauquier County March 21 1798, and died June 27, 1802.
28. iii.  Susannah Q.6, born in Fauquier County Dec. 15, 1799, and died Jan. 3, 1802.
29. iv.  Mary W.6 (Polly), born in Fauquier County, Virginia, Jan. 2, 1802, married in Shenandoah County Edward H. Berry, son of Thomas and Ann (Humston) Berry (see No. 21), who was born in Shenandoah Nov. 25, 1799. They lived near Edinburg, Va. She died June 10, 1858, and he died Aug. 28, 1870, both being buried at Edinburg. Issue: (1) Milton Berry, born at Edinburg. He was a teacher in Virginia and Kentucky, and later studied dentistry, practicing that profession at Hagerstown, Md. He married Hattie Rhobuck. The died at Hagerstown and are buried there. No issue. (2) Lucy A. Berry, born at Edinburg Feb. 24, 1830. She lived there most of her life, teaching school for many years. She died at Edinburg Nov. 27., 1890 and is buried there. She was unmarried.
30.  v.  Nancy6, born in Fauquier County, Virginia, about 1804, married 1 st….; she married 2 nd, William Dawkins at New Castle, Henry County, Ky., in 1836. They lived in Kentucky until 1854, when they moved to Chantilly, Lincoln Co., Mo., and lived there the remainder of their lives. They died at that place, she in 1872, and are buried at New Salem Church two miles north of Argentville.

Issue (1 st marriage):

Mandy…., married James Suddeth in Kentucky, lived in Calhoun Co., Ill., for years, and later at Grafton Jersey Co., Ill.

Mary Jane …., married Harve Irmvin in Kentucky, lived in Lincoln Co., Mo. There were said to be several children, now dead, except John Irvin who lives near Winfield, Mo.

Issue (2 nd marriage):

John T. Dawkins, born at New Castle, Ky., Feb 23, 1837, married Marry Roach. He was a wagon maker and blacksmith, dying at Winfield, Mo., about 1889. She died May 29, 1925 at Fulton, Mo.

George Washington Dawkins, born at New Castle, Ky., Feb. 22, 1838, and went with his parents to Lincoln County, Mo., when about 14 years old. He married May 14, 1863, Angeline Dorsey, daughter of Richard and Ellen (Hilton) Dorsey, who was born Oct. 10, 1841 at Elizabethtown, Ky. Mr. Dawkins was a blacksmith at Argentville, Mo., where he died Feb. 21, 1883. His wife died Oct. 26, 1924.

James Edward Dawkins, born in 1842 in Lexington, Ky., married at Argentville, Mo., Mary Elizabeth Swan, daughter of Thomas Swan, who was born in Lexington, Ky., in 1850. He was a section foreman for the Wabash Railroad at O’Fallon, Mo., where he died in 1887, being buried at Salom, Mo. She made her home with her son and died Dec. 3, 1939 at St. Louis, Mo., burial was at St. Peters Cemetery.

Susan Dawkins, died in 1867 at Chantilly, Mo.

31. vi.  Lucy6, born in Fauquier County, Virginia in August, 1806, married at Edinburg, Va., John Morehead, a farmer. They lived there until 1840, when they moved to Clark County, Kentucky. About 1865 they moved to Missouri and no further record of them has been found. Issue: Martha, Nathaniel, Albert, and Lucy.

32. vii.  Ann Dearing6, born in Fauquier County, Virginia, Jan. 23, 1808, married at Edinburg, Va. Feb. 25, 1830, Amos F. Whissen, son of Joseph Whissen. They moved to McConnellsville, Ohio, in April, 1830, and lived there many years, later going to Beverly, Ohio. He was a miller. They are buried at Beverly. Their children were born at McConnellsville, and are buried at Beverly.

Issue:

    • Milton Edward Whissen, born in 1832, killed in a steamboat explosion when about 30 years old.
    • Lucy Salome Whissen, born in 1835, married at Marietta, Ohio, Johnston Frank, son of Thomas and Polly B. ( Johnston) Frank. She lived for many years in Henry County, Ky., and died at Bagdad, Shelby County, Ky., Oct. 9, 1906. No issue.
    • Joseph Thomas Whissen, born about 1836, married Mary Bane. Issue: Mary Bane.
    • Cornelia Matilda Whissen, born about 1838, died at the age of 18.
    • Amos Albert Whissen, born in 1839, married Louise Stebling in 1906. He was a major in the Union Army during the War Between the States; was postmaster at Dallas, Texas, and later moved to Little Rock, Ark., where he died Aug. 14, 1914. No issue.
    • William Henry Whissen, born about 1840, died young.
    • Mildred Annie Whissen, born in 1842, married Charles R. Hopkins in 1868. Issue: Stella Bernice who was a teacher having taught in schools in Iowa and Illinois.
    • Mary Ellen Whissen, born about 1844, married Prof. James Davis. She died in 1886. Issue: two children.
    • Sarah Elizabeth Whissen, born about 1846, died young.
    • Horace Humston Whissen, born about 1848, married Rose Davis at Beverly, Ohio. He was a dentist.

33. vii. Sarah6, born in Fauquier County, Virginia Dec. 2, 1809, and died in 1824. The family graveyard at the home near Edinburg was about fifty yards to the rear of the home near the barn. The tombstones were neglected and were left lying on the ground. In 1927 they were gathered up, together with the stones of the old barn, and taken to a neighboring farm for the construction of a new barn. It is said the gravestones were used in the foundation of this barn. Only one stone was found, lying about the premises, and it bore the inscription S.H. B 1809 – D 1824. This evidently was the tombstone of Sarah. The tombstones were rough flat slabs, probably chosen from what natural shapes that could be found on the nearby mountain. The lettering was scratched into the stone by one of the family.

34. ix.  Nathaniel Albert6, born Nov. 26, 1811.

35. x.  William Grinsted6, born Dec. 26, 1813.

36. xi.  Charles Morehead6, born Sept. 29, 1815.

37. xii.  George Armstrong6, born May 17, 1817.

38. xiii.  James A.6, born March 21, 1819.

39. xiv. Elizabeth J.L.M.6, born at Edinburg, Va., in November, 1820, 1820, married at Edinburg, John Massie. They lived there until 1850, when they moved to Henry County, Kentucky, and bought a farm about three miles west of Port Royal. He died in 1862 and is buried in the Humston graveyard; she died in April, 1889, and is buried at Port Royal.

Issue:

Virginia Jane Massie, born near Port Royal in 1850, married Thomas Tipton. She died in 1920 and is buried at Port Royal.

    • Ara Belle Massie, born near Port Royal, Kentucky, Sept. 8, 1851, married in November, 1870, Z. T. Dowden, son of George and Marha (Fishback) Dowden, who was born at Franklinton, Ky., Aug. 6, 1847. He was a farmer at that place, where he died Aug. 25, 1928. She died Feb. 16, 1929.
    • Elizabeth (Bettie) Jane Massie, born near Port Royal in 1854, married at that place Nov. 21, 1872, Jesse Snell Maddox, son of Fancis M. and Sarah Ann (Jones) Maddox, who was born May 2, 1852. He was a farmer, and was sheriff of Henry County for four years. He was living at Port Royal at the time of his death Aug. 17, 1921, and is buried there. She is living near Port Royal with her daughter Katherin.
    • Albertie Massie, born near Port Royal in 1856, married William Thomas Humston (no. 75 of this record).
    • Georgia Ann Massie, born near Port Royal, Ky., May 27, 1858, married Oct. 5, 1877, Frank Adams, son of Charles H. and Mary (Ruebel) Adams, who was born April 15, 1858. He was a physician, a graduate of the Louisville Medical College, and lived at Bagdad, Ky., until his death Jan. 1, 1921. She died March 30, 1935.
    • Laura Seline Massie, born near Port Royal, Ky., March 7, 1862, married Nov.5, 1890, T. J. Harlow, son of E. J. and Frances Harlow, who was born June 24, 1861 in Shelby County, Ky. He was a farmer near Bagdad. Both were killed in an auto-train crash. No issue.

40. xv.  Caroline6, born near Edinburg, Va., Oct. 7, 1823; died young.

Although the family records show fifteen children, Thomas Humston may have had another daughter, Lucinda. The Humston records fail to mention her, but it has been stated that she was a Humston, that her father’s name was Thomas, and that he later moved to Kentucky. All things would indicate that this was the accurate relationship. Lucinda probably was born near Edinburg, Va., and married there Isaac R. Hite, who was born at Edinburg. He was a surveyor, a school teacher, and for a time practiced law. Issue: (1) Harvey D. Hite, married and had issue Isaac M. Hite, born 1872; John W. Hite; Arthur O. Hite; Curry E. Hite; Sarah E. Hite. (2) Joseph Hite, died young (3) M. F. Hite. (4) Jennie M. Hite.

The family Bible of Thomas Humston is now in the possession of Dr. Orlester B. Humston, Franklinton, Ky.

18. Edward5 Humston, born about 1773 ( Edward4, Edward3, Edward2, Edward1 ), married Jane Neeley. She died at Bedford, Ind., Feb. 22, 1855, said to have been in her eighty-fifth year, and is buried at that place (Some records indicate Edward’s full name was James Edward, and his wife Susan Jane.)

Edward Humston, son of Edward and Susannah (Quarles) Humston, was born in Fauquier County, Virginia, about 1773 fifth of the name in direct descent.

As a young man, he engaged in farming in Fauquier and probably later in Shenandoah County, but much of his life he followed the trade of a millwright. This occupation led him from place to place, wherever a mill was to be constructed, and it is probable that he moved along many of the watercourses into southwestern Virginia and adjacent states.

Edward went to Tennessee about 1825, but stayed there only a few years, moving about 1833 to the vicinity of Peoria, Franklin County, Inc. He obtained a tract of land from the government but did not live on it. He first located on Salt Creek where he built a one-room cabin.

Edward’s work of building mills took him away from home much of the time, and an experience is recalled about his family during on of these absences. One night wolves surrounded the cabin, attracted by fresh meat hanging in the house, and they did not leave until morning. The family barred the door and Jane made a big fire to keep the wolves from coming down the chimney.

Edward later moved to Lawrence County, Indiana, where he owned a farm about a mile southwest of Bedford. In addition to his other activities, it is said he also owned a distillery at one time.

He died November 8, 1853 and is buried at Green Hill Cemetery, Bedford, Ind. It is said there is the marker of a Revolutionary War soldier on his grave, but records of his age might dispute such service. Edward told of battles and bushwacking encounters with the Indians, but these may have been in the struggle along the frontier after the Revolution.

Edward’s work took him far from home and some of his descendants think he went even to the Carolinas. A record of his marriage has not been found. While he may have married near his home in Virginia, it remains possible that he met his future wife while working afar, in some part of Virginia, Tennessee, or elsewhere.

A letter, written by Charles M. Humston of Port Royal, Ky., to William J. Humston of Mitchell, Ind., dated Jan. 8, 1863, reveals the Tennessee residence and also shows the true relationship of Edward and his descendants to the Virginia Family.

Dear Sir: Yours of the 29 th of Dec. come to hand yesterday and I hasten to answer. I now have no doubt but that you are a relation, and that I am an own cousin of your father. I learned from my father that your grandfather, Edward Humston, was living some thirty years ago at Peoria, Ind., and some ten or twelve years ago I wrote to the Post-master at that point to learn his whereabouts, and learned he had moved to Lawrence County, near Bedford. I then wrote to and received a letter from him. My father and he were both living then. Your grand father first emigrated to Tennessee from Virginia, thence to Indiana. (For contents of a letter preceding this one, see under Charles M.6 Humston).

Issue:

41. i. John6, born about 1800, probably in Virginia.

42. ii.   Susan Jane6, born about 1810, probably in Virginia, married at Bedford, Ind., John Fisher. She survived her husband and was middle-aged at the time of her death. Issue: (1) William Fisher, Born at Bedford. Descendants are said to have been: (A) Sam Fisher, who moved from Bedford to Chicago. (B) Arthur Fisher, who moved to Oregon. (C) Sue Fisher, who married Elwood Haines. (2) Armanda Fisher, born at Bedford. (3) Felicia Ann Fisher, born at Bedford, married, 1 st,….Woody; 2 nd, Perry Younger.

43. iii. William Moore6, born Aug. 31, 1812, probably in Virginia.

20. John5 Humston, born about 1777 ( Edward4, Edward3, Edward2, Edward1 ), married about 1802, Matilda …..

Little is known about her as there are no records to identify her family, or to show the date of her birth and death, although it is said she was about 50 years old when she died.

John Humston, son of Edward and Susannah (Quarles) Humston, was born in Fauquier County, Virginia, about 1777, and lived in that state all his live. He is listed as a taxpayer in Frederick County in 1832. He was a farmer, but little else is known about him for the family records have been lost.

It is said John was in the War of 1812.

He and his wife are named in his father’s will dated in December, 1820. He was about 55 years old at the time of his death, but the date is unknown, as is the place of his burial.

Deeds made by John Humston in Frederick County, Virginia:

Received from Jacob McKay Jun on the 4 th day of June 1813 the sum of three hundred and thirty eight dollars & thirty cents and in the month of July thereafter the further sum of one hundred & sixty one dollars and sixty seven cents making in all five hundred dollars and money of the United States in Full payment for a negro man slave named Harry sold to him for that sum…As witness my hand seal this 4 th day of July 1814

John Humston (Seal)

Witnesses present: W. Cook, Benjamin Elliott, Jas. Mitchell. Recorded Aug. 3, 1814. ( Frederick County Deed Book 36, p. 301)

This indenture (Frederick County Deed Book 37, p. 44) made the 24 th day of June in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and fourteen between John Humpston & Matilda his wife of the County of Frederick and commonwealth of Virginia of the one part and William Hand….of the other part. Witnesseth that the said John Humpston & Matilda his wife for and in consideration of the sum of eight hundred & Thirty dollars and 50 cts current money of Virginia….hath granted….unto the said William Hand and his heirs a certain tract or parcel of land in the said County of Frederick and it being a part of the same land which the said John Humpston purchased of his father Edward Humpston and the said Edward Humpston purchased of Richard Briarly and the said Richard Briarly purchased of Robt Mackey….containing sixty nine acres and 140 poles….In testimony whereof the said John Humston and Matilda his wife hat hereunto set their hands and seals the day and year above written.

John Humston

Matilda Humston

(Recorded Feb. 21, 1815)

This Indenture ( Frederick County Deed Book 37, p. 47) made the twenty fourth day of June in the year of our Lord one Thousand eight hundred and fourteen Between John Humpston and Matilda his wife of the County of Frederick and Commonwealth of Virginia of the one part and Jas Silver….of the other part. Witnesseth that the said John Humpston and Matilda his wife for and in consideration of the sum of Eight Hundred and thirty eight dollars and 50 cts current money of Virginia….hat granted….unto the said Jas Silver his heirs and assigns a certain tract piece or parcel of land in the said County of Frederick and it being a part of the land which said John Humpston purchased of his father Edward Humpston….containing sixty nine acres and 140 poles….In testimony whereof the said John Hmston and Matilda his wife hath hereunto set their hands and seals the day and year first above written.

John Humston

Matilda Humston

In presence of us: Wm Conrad, Richard Dowell, Gersham Silver. (Recorded Feb. 21, 1815)

Issue:

44. i.   Strother Grayson6, born Nov. 15, 1804.

45. ii.   James6, born about 1808.

46. iii.   Edward6, born about 1809.

47. iv.   John M.6, born March 8, 1810.

48. v.   Ann Maria6, born at Edinburg, Shenandoah County, Va., July 12, 1816, married George A.6 Humston (See No. 37 of this record).

49. vi.  Larkin Morehead6, born in 1821.

25. Nathaniel Quarles5 Humston, born in 1785 ( Edward4, Edward3, Edward2, Edward1 ), married near Edinburg, Va., Dec. 7, 1826, Margaret Stephenson, daughter of James and Hannah Stephenson, who was born about 1805. She died Aug. 4, 1864, and is buried near Edinburg.

Nathaniel Quarles Humston, youngest child of Edward and Susannah (Quarles) Humston, was born in Fauquier County, Virginia, Dec. 22, 1785, later going to Shenandoah County with his parents. He was a farmer and owned land on the Shenandoah River near Edinburg, where he lived all his life.

He was the only son of Edward who remained in Virginia, the rest of the family having moved on to the newer states on the frontier, but none of the others was more successful than he. His farm is still in the hands of his descendants. Nathaniel died December 9, 1861, and is buried on the Humston home place near Edinburg.

A lease from Nathaniel to his father (Shenandoah Deed Book “V”, p. 346):

This Indenture made the eight day of December in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and fourteen. Between Nathaniel Humston of the County of Shenandoah and State of Virginia of the one part and Edward Humston Senr of the same county and state of the other part. Witnesseth that the said Nathaniel Humston for and in consideration of the sum of five Dollars to him in hand paid by the said Edward Humston Senr and the yearly rent hereinafter reserved he the said Nathaniel Humston hath leased….unto the said Edward Humston Senr or his assigns a certain tract of land whereon the said Edward Humston now lives lying and being on the north side of the north river of Shenandoah in the County of Shenandoah aforesaid….containing one hundred and sixty one acres….and is the same tract of land which was conveyed to the said Edward Humston Senr by Thomas Humston and Lucy his wife by their Deed of Bargain & Sale bearing date the 24 th day of October 1812….and the said Edward Humston Senr recently conveyed said land by deed the said Nathaniel Humston….He the said Edward Humston or assigns yielding and paying unto the said Nathaniel Humston his heirs or assigns the yearly rent of one cent if lawfully demanded of him, and also pay all tax or taxes that shall or may be laid on the land during the term aforesaid. In Witness whereof the said Nathaniel Humston and Edward Humston have hereunto set their hands and affixed their seals the day and year firs above written.

Nathaniel Humston (Seal)

Edward Humston (Seal)

Signed, Sealed & Delivered in the presence of Thos Humston, Edward Humston. (Recorded Dec. 8, 1814, proved by oaths of Thomas Humston and Edward Humston the younger).

The marriage bond of Nathaniel and Margaret Stephenson (Shenandoah County Records):

Know all Men by these presents, That We Nathaniel Humston and Robert Stephenson are held and firmly bound unto John Tyler Esq. Governor of Virginia, in the just and full sum of One Hundred and Fifty Dollars, the which payment well and truly to be made to the said Governor or his successors, we bind ourselves, our and each of our heirs, executors and administrators, jointly and severally, firmly by these presents. Sealed with our seals, and dated this 5 th day of December 1826.

The Condition of the Above Obligation Is Such, that whereas there is a marriage shortly intended to be solemnized between the above bound Nathaniel Humpston and Margaret Stephenson.

Now if there be no lawful cause to obstruct said marriage, then the above obligation to be void, otherwise to remain I full force and virtue.

Nathaniel Humston (Seal)

Robt. Stephenenson (Seal)

Signed, Sealed & delivered in the presence of Saml. Pollock.

Robert Stephenson made oath before me a Justice of the peace of Shenandoah County that his sister, the within named Margaret Stephenson is at this time more than twenty one years of age and is a resident of this said County. Given under my hand and seal this 5 th day of November 1826.

M. Effinger

On March 5, 1828, Nathaniel Humston purchased a tract of land from James Stephenson, another brother of his wife, Margaret, paying $129.96 for one hundred acres on the back road near Mulberry Run, adjoining the lands of Philip Black and Jonathan Pitman. This land was part of James Stephenson’s share of his father’s plantation, James Stephenson, Sr., deceased. (Shenandoah Deed Book “GG”, p. 118. Will of James Stephenson (Jan. 19, 1819 – Nov. 10, 1818): To wife Hannah; four daughters, Isabella Taylor, Hannah Stephenson, Nancy Stephenson, and Margaret Stephenson; children of daughter, Elizabeth Clayton, deceased; son, John; three sons, William; James and Robert. Son, William, exer. (Shenandoah Will Book “L”, p. 148)).

Nathaniel bought more land March 9. 1843, fro Philip Pitman, giving $1300 for 183 acres on the north river of Shenandoah (Shenandoah Deed Book “TT”, p. 457)

The following will of Nathaniel was probated in Shenandoah County on Sept. 8, 1862 (Shenandoah Deed Book No. 9, p. 462):

I Nathaniel Q. Humston, being of sound mind and judgment do make and publish this my last will and Testament, hereby revoking all former wills made by me.

First. I devise after my death, that all my funeral expenses and just debts be first paid.

Second. I give and bequeath to my beloved wife Margaret during her natural life the following property Viz: a bond due me from Robert Stephenson, also four blacks, Cotie, Sunda, and Mary Jane and child, which my wife is to hold during her life and for her support, during the same after the death of my wife all property on hand at her death, I wish equally divided between my two sons Benjamin F. & Nathaniel Q. Humston and my daughter Sidney Sibert, including any increase in the blacks, all property coming into my daughters hands at the death of my wife is for her during her life after her death to go to her children.

Third. I give and bequeath to my daughter Sidney Sibert all the bonds due me at this time except the bond of Robert Stephenson which I give to my wife. I also give to my daughter during her life, after her death to be equally divided between her Children the following property in Slaves viz: Amelia and Ellen and a negro man Jacob.

Fourth. I give and bequeath to my son Nathaniel Q. Humston one negro by name Robert and one woman named Delinda.

Fifth. I Give and bequeath to my son Benjamin F. Humston, two negroes named David and George.

Sixth. My real property I have disposed of to my two sons Nathaniel Q. and Benjamin F. Humston, as follows, the home farm I give to my son Benjamin F. and my land known as the Pitman land to my son Nathaniel Q. and to my daughter Sidney Sibert I have given her money &c, to make her share equal with that of my sons, therefore all my money &c, advanced to her in the distribution of the property I am now disposing of, but is as her portion with that of either of my sons, all my property has been divided amongst my children both real & personal except the property I now convey which is named above in this will.

Seventh. I hereby appoint my son Benjamin F. Humston as executor of this my last will & testament revoking as above all former wills by me made as witnesseth by hand and seal this 24 th day of October, 1861.

Nathaniel Q. Humston (Seal)

Signed sealed & delivered in the presence of each other: I.I. Stoutmier, Geo. W. Windle

Recorded March 10, 1862, being proved by J. J. Stoneburner, one of the witnesses, and Geo. W. Windle. Benjamin F. Humston gave bond of $800 and was granted a certificate for obtaining probate.

Issue:

50. i.   Benjamin Franklin6, born Jan. 12, 1830.

51. ii.   Nathaniel Quarles6, born Sept. 23, 1832.

52. iii.   Sydney Stephenson6, born near Edinburg, Va., May 13, 1834, married there May 17, 1855, Major John Wesley Sibert, son of William and Mary Sibert. He was a farmer near Mount Olive, Va. During the War Between the States he was a Major of the Thirty-sixth Battalion of the Seventh Regiment of Virginia. Shortly after his return home from the war he died June 5, 1865, leaving his widow with five small children. She died Sept. 10, 1913 and is buried at Mount Olive, Va.

Issue:

  • Nathaniel Humston Sibert, born at Mount Olive, Va., May 17, 1856. After the death of his father he went to Harrisonburg, Va., to live with an uncle, Jacob Sibert, but after a time he returned to make his home with another uncle, B. F. Humston in Clarke County. At 19 he learned the leather tanning trade in Shenandoah County, and then a few years later began farming. He owned considerable property and was a large-scale producer of farm crops, making his home near Ashburn, Loudoun County, Va. He was a good business man and possessed a een wit. He married, 1 st, Dec. 27, 1880 at Harpers Ferry Mary Alice Keller, daughter of Lieut. William Jacob and Lydia (Borden) Keller (dau. Of Augustine and Mary Ann Borden of Saumsville, Va.) of Toms Brook, Va., who was born Sept 30, 1860. She died April 30, 1905 near Purcellsville in Loudoun County. The Kellers were said to be direct descendants of Leodegar Keller, the last king of Switzerland. Nathaniel Sibert married, 2 nd, Mrs. Almonia Powell Walker Horseman of Ashburn. Later they separated and he went to live with his daughter, Mrs. J. W. Anderson. He died uly 7, 1937 and is buried near Hamilton, Va., beside his first wife. Issue: (A) Renee (Irene) Alma Sibert, born Oct. 8, 1881, on the old Keller estate near Toms Brook, Va., married at Hamilton, Va., John William Anderson, eldest son of John William and Elisabeth Frances (Rector) Anderson (Dau. Of Elias and Lucinda F. (Carver) Rector (born Aug., 1844) or Orleans, Fauquier County, Virginia) of Gerryville, Clarke county, Va., who was born Aug. 28, 1877 at Sunny Side Farm near Berryville, part of the old Anderson estate. Address: R.F.D., Berryville, Va. The Andersons have reared two girls, Ada Carlysle, who married Earnest Griffith, Jr., of Winchester, Va., and Mary Elizabeth Jeffries Anderson. (B) Roy Sibert, born July 31, 1883. He was a farmer and mason. He is unmarried and lives at Ashburn, Va. (C) Hester Alice Sibert, born Sept. 13, 1885, married at Hillsboro, Va., Feb. 22, 1911, Heaton Rufus Wynkoop, youngest of John and Ruth (Hanna) Wynkoop of Round Hill, Loudoun County. She died July 17, 1929. Issue: (a) Infant son, died at birth. (D) John William Sibert, born Sept. 26, 1893. He is unmarried and resides at Toms Brook, Va., R.F.D. c/o Robert Sibert.
  • William Hubert Sibert, born at Mount Olive Oct. 11, 1858, died Oct. 27, 1901 and is buried there. Unmarried.
  • Margaret Albertio Sibert, born at Mount Olive, Va., Feb. 6, 1861, married at that place Aug. 29, 1882, Charles Samuel Gay, son of Albert E. and Catherin (Strickler) Gay, who was born Feb. 18, 1853 at Harrisonburg, Va. He was a merchant. They moved to Atchison County, Missouri, and later went to San Angelo, Texas, where he died Oct. 26, 1914. She is living at San Angelo at 1332 S. Madison. Issue (A) Maude Margaret Gay, born at Dotham, Atchison Co., Mo., Jan. 4, 1884, married Feb. 14, 1907 at San Angelo, Texas, Julius R. Miller, son of Julius Karl and Camilla (Mathews) Miller, who was born Feb. 10, 1884 at Moberly, Mo. He is a traveling salesman and they reside at 1332 S. Madison, San Angelo, Tex. Issue: (a) Margaret Camilla Miller, born Feb. 18, 1910 at San Angelo, Tex. She attended Ward-Belmont College at Nashville, Tenn., and Southern Methodist University at Dallas. She married Oct. 18, 1933 at San Angelo, James Harrison Hildreth, son of Hugh and Ardeltha (Wallace) Hildreth, who was born June 6, 1908 at Blue Ridge, Texas. He attended Burleson Junior College at Greenville, Texas, and is a Graybar Electric Company representative. They live at 3448 Rosedalt St., Dallas, Texas (b) Loraine Estella Miller, born Sept. 2, 1915 at San Angelo, Texas. She attended Texas Technological College at Lubbock and the University of Texas at Austin. She married July 3, 1937 at San Angelo, Robert Jayne Northway, son of Selah Ellsworth and Lois (Jayne) Northway, who was born June 14, 1915 at Cortland, N.Y. He is a graduate of the University of Texas (1936) and is an accountant for the Shell Oil Company. Address: 2410 Kingston Drive, Houston, Texas. (c) Gay Miller, born March 7, 1918 at San Angelo. He attended College of Industrial Arts at Denton, Texas, Texas Technological College and the University of Texas, where he was graduated in 1940. He is a teacher.
  • Charles R. Sibert, born at Mount Olive, March 17 1863, married Feb. 28, 1888 at Mournt Olive, Lydia Catherin Fauver, who was born in 1871 at Maurertown, Va. He was a farmer and stock dealer and resided at Mount Olive, where he died Nov. 20, 1941. She is still living. Issue: (A) Robert C. Sibert, born April 15, 1890 at Mount Olive, Va., married Nov. 24, 1909 at Fishers Hill, Va., Ruth Baker, daughter of Benjamin and Mary Catherine (Glaige) Baker, who was born April 17, 1890 at Fishers Hill. It is said he has an old Sibert Bible. Address: R.F.D., Thomas Brook, Va. Issue: (a) Son, born June 3, 1918 at Mount Olive, Va. (b) John Wesley Sibert, married….Address: F.F.D., Toms Brook, Va.
  • John W. Sibert, born at Mount Olive, Va., Dec. 10, 1864. He lived at Hannibal, Mo., and was unmarried. He was killed by an automobile Jan. 17, 1926, while spending a winter at Miami, Fla.

 

A Culpeper Puzzle

The 1810 Census of Culpeper County, Virginia, lists Mary Humstead as head of a household. The enumeration of her family showed 2 males under 10, 1 male under 16, 1 female under 10, 1 female under 16, 1 female under 45, 1 female over 45. Records and later censuses of the county and state do not list her. It has not been determined whom she married, why her family would be in Culpeper, and what became of her.

The will of Sarah Barbour of Culpeper, dated 1781-1788, mentioned daughter Mary Humpson in an abstract printed in the Kentucky Magazine v.50, p. 373. It was noted the will was in bad condition.

Culpeper will books were abstracted by Dorothy Ford Wulfeck, and she listed Sarah Barbour's daughter as Mary Thompson. But Green in his notes on Culpeper has named the daughter as Mary Harrison, who married John Harrison.

So the fact is still unknown.

 

<<4th Generation