Col. George Ridley

Capt. George Ridley

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Descendants of George Ridley

Generation No. 1

1. Capt. George¹ Ridley was born 11 Jan 1736/37 in Prob. VA, and died 29 Nov 1835 in Nashville, Davidson, TN. He married (1) Elizabeth Weatherford 20 Sep 1761 in VA, daughter of <Unknown> Weatherford. She was born 1740 in James City Co., VA, and died 24 Nov 1776 in TN. He married (2) Sarah Vincent 02 Mar 1777 in Near Wautauga, TN. She was born 01 May 1754, and died 20 Mar 1836 in Nashville, Davidson, TN.

Notes for Capt. George Ridley:

George's biography was published in a book (based on an interview) after he was 90 years old. He lived much of his early life in Virginia, and likely was born there. George Ridley is listed in the will of John Butler of Amelia Co., VA, and he inherited property jointly with Penel Josiah Drinkwater, who was listed as a nephew of John Butler's. No relationship to George is obvious.

Part of that Butler family is listed here:

Descendants of John Butler

......1.......John Butler.................d: Abt. 09 Jun 1719 Prince George Co., VA

................+Mary Wallace, daughter of James Wallace [and possibly Joan Wheeler ]

...................2............Jane Butler b: Abt. 1710 d: Bet. 1740 - 1742 Amelia Co., VA

....................................+Thomas Wingo b: Abt. 1717 King William Co., VA d: Bef. 27 Oct 1788 Amelia Co., VA Father: John Wingo

....................................3...........John Washington Wingo b: 1740 Amelia Co., VA d: Bef. Nov 1821 Amelia Co., VA

...................................................+Sarah Rucker b: 1740 Orange Co., VA m: Abt. 1760 d: Bef. 1785 Amelia Co., VA

.....................................3..........Thomas Wingo b: Abt. 1742 d: 17 Jun 1765 Amelia Co., VA

...................................................+Sarah <Unknown>

..................2..............John Butler d: Bef. Jan 1759 Amelia Co., VA

......................................+Martha <Unknown>

..................2..............Sarah Butler

..... +<Unknown> Drinkwater

.....................................3..........Penel Josiah Drinkwater

..................2..............<Son> Butler

.....................................3..........Price Butler

Much of the information on descenants of George Ridley was provided by Janie Ridley Bice, who has published the book "Ridley Roots", which is sold out.

A recent book was published about Thompson's Station, Tennessee in Williamson County. Some of the descendents of George Ridley lived there for generations. There is a section in the book on the family based on information from John B. Ridley, IV in Franklin, Tennessee.

In 1789 George Ridley, Sr. sold land in Sullivan Co., TN.

"Ridleys of Rutherford County, Tennessee.

Capt. George Ridley descended from an old and respectable family that came from England to Virginia in 1635; he was born ... in 1727 or 1738, and died Nov. 29, 1835. He claimed to be ninety-seven years old at the time of his death ; but his widow and children said he lost the count of eleven years during a severe illness, and that he was one hundred and eight years of age when he deceased. ... He emigrated from Virginia when young, and settled in east Tennessee, then a part of North Carolina, on the Holston River, and followed the occupation of a "cowboy," or, to use polite parlance, a "herdsman." About the year 1790, he purchased a large tract of land in middle Tennessee, and removing, settled within one mile of where the city of Nashville now stands. Captain Ridley transported his family, household goods, and farm implements down the Holston River in large flat-boats; thence down the Tennessee River over the "mussel-shoals," and with the aid of his elder sons and eight negro-men brought his boats into the Mississippi River; thence by hard pulling and pushing with oars and poles up the Cumberland River to the present site of Nashville, where he came to anchor in the middle of the stream, and kept guard to protect himself and family from the hostile Indians then passing up and down in their canoes. Being one of the first settlers in middle Tennessee, he immediately erected a strong timber block-house, surrounded by stockades some ten feet in height, as a shelter and protection from the Indians. Here he cleared a large farm and became extensively engaged in agriculture and the raising of stock. The life of this man was attended with all the adventures and dangers incident to the pioneer of those days, and an interesting volume could be written on his experience. He was particularly qualified to act his part in leading the van of civilization into the wilderness, by the possession of remarkable courage, energy, fortitude, and physical endurance. Captain Ridley was a man possessed of a high sense of honor, and proverbially regarded as one in whom truth stood above all virtues. He was fond of prayer and the Holy Scriptures, and in sentiment a Missionary Baptist; this sentiment he practically exemplified in his relations with his fellow-men. With a force of will unyielding, whatever idea he embraced was held with a tenacity peculiarly his own; his traits of character were prominent and clearly defined; uncompromising and persistent, he would not allow any thing to stand in the way of his plans, and would drive straight on and execute where others failed. His characteristics were transmitted to his posterity, and typical representatives of the old pioneer may now be found in every branch of the Ridley family. I have not learned how the title "captain" came to the subject of this notice, but presume to say he was leader of some company during the Indian wars."

History of the Ancient Ryedales, Ridlons, Ridleys

16 Dec 1784 (Halifax Co VA DB13:116) "Know all men by thers presents that I, George RIDLEY of Sullivan County, State of North Carolina [TN], do appoint Mr. James JOHNSON of Halifax County, State of Virginia, my lawful attorney to dispose of all my lands in Halifax County, and to grant deeds for same. /s/ George RIDLEY, Senr.; Dated & Rec. 16 Dec. 1784 (Emigration to Other States From Southside Virginia, Vol. 1, compiled by Katherine B. Elliott, Southern Historical Press, Easley, SC, Pg.37)

Among notable descendants are actresses Debbie Reynolds and Carrie Fisher.

Memo: 2 generations

More About Capt. George Ridley:

Burial: Mill Creek Cem., Nashville, Davidson, TN

Notes for Sarah Vincent:

Gideon Marr practiced law in Albemarle County in the mid-18th century. This name, given to descendants, may also be ancestral for Sarah.

More About Sarah Vincent:

Burial: Mill Creek Cem., Nashville, Davidson, TN

Children of George Ridley and Elizabeth Weatherford are:

+ 2 i. Beverly² Ridley, born 23 Jul 1762 in E. TN (Later Hawkins Co., TN); died 27 Oct 1845 in Williamson Co., TN.

3 ii. George Ridley, born 11 Jan 1764 in E. TN. He married (1) Mary Dodson. He married (2) Polly Vaughn 03 Mar 1820.

Notes for George Ridley:

Married and settled in northern Alabama.

+ 4 iii. John Ridley, born 05 Jun 1765 in TN.

5 iv. William Ridley, born 02 Feb 1767 in TN; died in GA.

Notes for William Ridley:

"He moved from Tennessee to settle in Georgia in the early settlement of that State, and in crossing the Tennessee River was killed by Indians, with his wife and three children. No representatives of his family now survive."

+ 6 v. Patsy Ridley, born 13 Mar 1770 in TN.

+ 7 vi. Elizabeth 'Betsy' Ridley, born 13 Feb 1772 in VA; died 1846 in Hawkins Co., TN.

+ 8 vii. Sarah Ridley, born 28 Nov 1773 in E. TN; died 23 Nov 1831 in Nashville, Davidson, TN.

+ 9 viii. Lettie Ridley, born 24 Nov 1776 in TN.

Children of George Ridley and Sarah Vincent are:

+ 10 i. Vincent Marr² Ridley, born 26 Jun 1778 in TN; died 16 Nov 1852 in Mount Pleasant, Maury, TN.

+ 11 ii. Thomas E. Ridley, born 16 Feb 1780 in TN; died 1854 in MS.

+ 12 iii. Moses Ridley, born 06 Jun 1782 in E. TN; died 16 Mar 1864 in Stewart's Creek, Rutherford, TN.

+ 13 iv. James M. Ridley, born 24 May 1784 in TN; died 30 Aug 1847 in Nashville, Davidson, TN.

+ 14 v. Abigail Ridley, born 26 Apr 1786 in E. TN; died Bef. 1836 in Nashville, Davidson, TN.

15 vi. Sarah Winnifred Ridley, born 07 Feb 1789 in TN. She married (1) <Unknown> Richmond. She married (2) Thomas Garrett Aft. 1808 in Nashville, Davidson, TN; born Abt. 1770 in Darby Twp., Chester, PA or NC.

Notes for Sarah Winnifred Ridley:

or Sarah Winfred Ridley

16 vii. Samuel Jones Ridley, born 01 Oct 1791 in TN; died 08 Dec 1827. He married Sally Hay Abt. 1815 in Davidson Co., TN; born Abt. 1800.

Notes for Samuel Jones Ridley:

A popular teacher of Kentucky, no children.

+ 17 viii. Henry Ridley, born 29 May 1794 in Nashville, Davidson, TN; died 22 Jul 1835 in Smyrna, Rutherford, TN.

Generation No. 2

2. Beverly² Ridley (George¹) was born 23 Jul 1762 in E. TN (Later Hawkins Co., TN), and died 27 Oct 1845 in Williamson Co., TN. He married (1) Annie Williams Abt. 1786 in Nashville, Davidson, TN, daughter of <Unknown> Williams. She was born 18 Dec 1766, and died 30 May 1825 in Williamson Co., TN. He married (2) Elizabeth Gooch 06 Jun 1828 in Williamson Co., TN, daughter of David Gooch and Jane Williams. She was born 05 May 1793 in Caswell Co., NC, and died Aft. 1840.

Notes for Beverly Ridley:

"In September, 1787, Captains Rains and Shannon were ordered to range the country in the direction of Duck and Elk rivers. Captain Shannon's company, being in advance, passed near a recently abandoned Indian camp without discovering it; but when Captain Rains came up he saw a large number of buzzards flying around, and from trained habits of observation he surmised that they must have been attracted by some carcass left by an Indian hunting party. He encamped near by and found, as he had suspected, the remains of a deer recently killed. Next morning he struck the Indians' trail, and before night one of the spies discovered and fired upon one of the warriors. The scouts dashed forward at the report of the gun. Rains saw and pursued an Indian who was running up a ridge. When he got in range he ordered him to stop. The Indian turned for an instant, then renewed his flight, when Rains fired, wounding him in the hand. Reuben Parks and Beverly Ridley now joined in the chase. The Indian fired at Ridley, but the ball passed over his head; they then closed in on him, knocked him down, and Ridley finally dispatched him with his knife. John Rains, Jr., and Robert Evans outran and captured an Indian boy about nineteen years of age, who was, a year or two later, released and permitted to return to his nation."

Tennessee The Volunteer State Vol 1

"He was a man of strong mind and undaunted courage, widely known and high respected ..."

Notes for Annie Williams:

Annie is likely a member of the family of Daniel Williams and Ursula Henderson, either a grandchild or a great-neice. This family is well documented at the site:

http://www.familytreemaker.com/users/b/i/c/Margaret-J-Bice/index.html (Janie Ridley Bice's page - August 1999)

Children of Beverly Ridley and Annie Williams are:

18 i. Elizabeth 'Betsy'³ Ridley, born 27 Mar 1787 in Nashville, Davidson, TN. She married John Weller.

Notes for Elizabeth 'Betsy' Ridley:

Had a son who married his cousin, a lady noted for her beauty.

19 ii. Nancy Ann Tolbert Ridley, born 13 Mar 1789 in TN; died 1876 in Nashville, Davidson, TN. She married Jonothan T. Elliston; born Bef. 1790 in KY.

Notes for Jonothan T. Elliston:

A silversmith of Nashville, Tenn.

"John Elliston, a native of Kentucky, came to Tennessee when a young man and with his uncle opened the first silversmith store in Nashville. The Ellistons were noted as business men in early Tennessee. Grandfather Elliston manufactured probably the greater part of the jewelry which was sold from his store, and much of the tableware which was used by early families in Nashville and vicinity came from his establishment, and he also made many of the old tall clocks which stood in the corners of some of the old homes."

Source: A History of Tennessee and Tennesseans, William M. Green, M.D., Volume V, by William T. Hale and Dixon L. Merritt, published by the Lewis Publishing Company, Chicago and New York, 1913, p. 1438.

20 iii. Polly Ridley, born 05 Feb 1791 in Nashville, Davidson, TN.

21 iv. William Ridley, born 05 Jan 1793 in Nashville, Davidson, TN; died in Williamson Co., TN. He married Minerva Tennessee Hamilton 27 Oct 1831; born 13 Jan 1813; died 23 Jun 1853.

Notes for William Ridley:

He was a farmer in Williamson Co., TN.

22 v. Rebecca Ridley, born 04 Aug 1795 in Nashville, Davidson, TN; died in Robertson Co., TN. She married Marshall Jamison 1818 in Williamson Co., TN; died in Robertson Co., TN.

23 vi. George Washington Ridley, born 07 Jul 1797 in Nashville, Davidson, TN; died 03 Oct 1873 in Franklin, Williamson, TN.

Notes for George Washington Ridley:

"Married and had issue several children ... He was a specimen of rare genius; a native type of indomitable self-will; a man of great boldness and a stranger to all earthly fear. He enlisted under Capt. Tapley B. Andrews and Col. Thomas Williamson in the Second Tennessee Mounted Gun-men, commanded by Gen. Andrew Jackson, against the Seminole Indians. At the battle of Missisook, east Florida, April 1, 1818, he was wounded five times at one firing ; once on the foot, once on the upper lip, and three times in the lower part of the abdomen, the bullets passing directly through him. He was mustered out as wounded, for a furlough, June 30, 1818, placed on board a vessel at Fort S. Mark, conveyed to New Orleans, and thence up the Cumberland River to Nashville. One of his legs was contracted an inch and a half in consequence of his wounds; and he was ever afterwards subject to fits, so that he could only perform the lighter kinds of labor. In the presidential campaign between Andrew Jackson and John Q. Adams in 1824-5, he was warmly and actively in favor of the former; and after the election of Mr. Adams by the House of Representatives, his disappointment was so great that he burned his pension certificate, with a decided refusal to draw his annuity under the administration of President Adams; but after the election of General Jackson in 1828-9, he obtained a new certificate and had his pension continued. He was a corporal in the expedition of 1818. His residence in 1866 was in Franklin, Williamson County, Tenn. During the late Rebellion he remained loyal to the Union. He died Oct. 3, 1873, leaving descendants who resemble him."

History of the Ancient Ryedales, Ridlons, Ridleys

24 vii. Robert Ridley, born 06 Apr 1799 in TN; died 1843 in prob. Madison Co., MS. He married Sarah Houston 26 Mar 1820 in Williamson Co., TN; born Oct 1798; died 17 Oct 1879.

Notes for Robert Ridley:

" ... He removed to the State of Mississippi; some say he subsequently settled in Alabama, and died there."

resided Williamson Co., TN. Served in the Seminole War, as did his brother George Ridley.

The Houston family wrote that Sarah Houston ran away to get married to a gambler and a drunk. He was involved in at least one lawsuit that was the result of a drunken fight, in Williamson Co., TN.

Loose Records - Williamson Co.

August 1831 - Robert Ridley on the 21st. day 1831 with force and arms assaulted, beat and bruised, did knock, pull ahd gouge out the eye of William (Martin). The bill for the curing of wounds, sickness, soreness, lameness and blindness caused by Ridley assessed by Martin was $400. William A. Baugh, a material witness, has left the county and believed to now resided in Giles County.

Deposition of Baugh: conversation took place between Baugh and Gen. Martin since the fight and Martin said he knew when his eye was put out in the fight, it was when Ridley was down and at the tie when Ridley threw up his hand and struck the sight of his eye with his finger and thumb nail. The fight took place during the late election. Ridley was excited by intoxication.

Deposition of WIlliam Martin - There was an exhibition of animals in the neighborhood where he resided on 21 May last and a meeting of the candidates. He had been engaged part of the day at labor, the little boys where he resided wanted to go and see the animals and he went with them that evening. When he got to Nolensville, he saw Ridley sitting in the house. He decided not to speak to him because he knew what sort of man he was. He heard a man named Sturdivant say "you had no business to have tore my bill," talking about betting on the election. A senator from Rutherford and Williamson County, Russwurm, one of the candidates came forward and handed Sturdivant a $5 bill to replace the one Ridley had torn, to make peace between them. Ridley said Jetton could not be elected. Ridley told Russwurm he could whip him or any of his friends. Ridley proceeded to turn and jump on Martin. Martin threw Ridley down and was on him when his eye was put out. Ridley was at Champ's Grocery in Nolensville. Both men were gouging at the others eyes.

Deposition of James C. Irvin. He said he heard a man named Waggoner, who had only one eye, ask Ridley why he had treated Martin so. Ridley replied that it had been an old grudge. Martin had treated George badly in the Seminolean War. Martin said not to part them until Ridley was whipped. Martin was a good deal the strongest man.

Deposition of Mr. Waggoner - He was Margin have Ridley down and gouging him. Ridley pushed Marstin's head back and had his finger in his eye. Blood was running out of Martin's eye and dripping on Ridley's chest. He saw the water fly out of Martin's eye. They were separated then. There was an old grudge between Martin and Ridley. No one "huzzed" for Ridley but Buck Whattamere.

Dep. Mr. Green - Ridley was drinking.

Dep. Dr. Webb - accident on Saturday evening, had no hope of Martin ever regaining sight in his eye.

Depo. John C. Neely - after the fight Martin asked him if he heard Ridley speaking ill of him. That was the reason that he called Ridley out. That he had heard Ridley say he would yet pay Gen. Martin for his conduct to his brother, George.

Dep. by Griggs and Alston - said both were gouging badly.

Depo. by Gray, Perkins and Buchanan who said Ridley was "gentlemanly drunk."

Dep. by Street - said Martin's friends were opposed to parting the fighters.

Depo. by Jacob Page - Martin was Ridley's officre in the Seminole War.

Notes for Sarah Houston:

resided Williamson Co., TN, Madison Co., MS

More About Sarah Houston:

Burial: Ocean Springs, Harrison, MS

25 viii. Martha 'Patsey' Ridley, born 14 Mar 1801 in Nashville, Davidson, TN. She married William N. Holt 17 Jan 1821 in Williamson Co., TN; born Abt. 1794 in Williamstown, TN.

26 ix. Thomas Jefferson Ridley, born 25 Oct 1804 in Nashville, Davidson, TN.

Notes for Thomas Jefferson Ridley:

Married, but died without children.

Child of Beverly Ridley and Elizabeth Gooch is:

27 i. J. W. B.³ Ridley, born 27 Apr 1830 in Williamson Co., TN.

4. John² Ridley (George¹) was born 05 Jun 1765 in TN.

Notes for John Ridley:

"Married a German lady in the State of Georgia, and had issue three children, a son and two daughters ... died young."

Children of John Ridley are:

28 i. Elizabeth³ Ridley, born in GA; died in TN.

Notes for Elizabeth Ridley:

" ... eldest daughter of John, was born in Georgia ..., left an orphan, carried to Tennessee when a child, and reared among her relatives. She died when about twenty years old, unmarried."

29 ii. John Ridley, born in GA.

Notes for John Ridley:

" ... having been left an orphan when young, was brought up among his kinspeople in Tennessee. He was murdered by one Willis Mullen, of Jackson County, Tenn., who eluded the law and escaped."

30 iii. Mary T. Ridley, born 10 Mar 1802 in GA; died 27 Sep 1745. She married Alexander Buchanan; born 22 Mar 1794 in Davidson Co., TN; died 1836.

Notes for Mary T. Ridley:

" ... descendants are now promiscuously scattered through Tennessee, as useful citizens."

6. Patsy² Ridley (George¹) was born 13 Mar 1770 in TN. She married James Wright Bet. 1786 - 1792 in TN. He was born Bef. 1769, and died Abt. Oct 1816 in Davidson Co., TN.

Notes for Patsy Ridley:

Settled on a plantation in middle Tennessee. Later in Hickman Co., TN.

Notes for James Wright:

Davidson Co. TN Wills Page 101 11/22/1816

Will of James Wright, deceased, of Davidson County. To my beloved wife Patty my three negroes, Hannah, Lucy, and Bob as long as she remains single and afterwards to be equally divided among my daughters, Jenny, Betsey, Salley, and Polly. Also to my wife the use of my land together with my stock of all sorts and my household furniture and farming utensils, afterward the raising and schooling my small children to be equally divided among my sons, George Wright, Joseph Wright, Beverly Wright, John Wright, James Wright, and Jackson Wright and heirs, surviving heirs excepting and reserving to my wife the power to give my grand children, Weatherly and Shaharozed Wright any proportion she may choose so I appoint my wife Patty and my son George Wright my only executors. Wit. John Buchanan and Jesse Fly.

Oct. Term 1816

Page. 145 Feb 27, 1817. Sale of James Wright, deceased Several items listed. Patsey Wright, exrx. Jan. Term 1817.

Children of Patsy Ridley and James Wright are:

31 i. George W.³ Wright, born 1787 in KY; died 1859 in Hickman Co., TN. He married Martha Sawyers 01 Aug 1818 in Davidson Co., TN; born 1800.

32 ii. Joseph Wright.

33 iii. Beverly Wright.

34 iv. John Wright.

35 v. James Wright.

36 vi. Jackson Wright.

37 vii. Jenny Wright.

38 viii. Betsy Wright.

39 ix. Sally Wright.

40 x. Polly Wright.

7. Elizabeth 'Betsy'² Ridley (George¹) was born 13 Feb 1772 in VA, and died 1846 in Hawkins Co., TN. She married (1) William Smith 1790 in Hawkins Co., TN, son of Peter Smith and Isabella <Unknown>. He was born Abt. 1760, and died Jun 1805 in Hawkins Co., TN. She married (2) Robert McMinn Bef. 1815, son of Robert McMinn and Sarah Harlan. He was born 12 Jan 1764 in Marlborough Twp., Chester, PA.

Notes for Elizabeth 'Betsy' Ridley:

Married 2nd to a brother of Governor McMinn, and by him had two sons. Her descendants are numerous and respected, -- some distinguished.

Notes for William Smith:

llsmith@utmb.edu Leland Smith descends from this line (Dec. 2002) and has authored books on the Ridley and Smith families.

Children of Elizabeth Ridley and William Smith are:

41 i. Sally³ Smith.

42 ii. George Smith, born Abt. 1793 in Hawkins Co., TN.

43 iii. William Smith, born 06 Jun 1798 in Hawkins Co., TN; died 1859 in Hawkins Co., TN. He married Winney Grigsby Abt. 1819; born Abt. 1804 in Hawkins Co., TN; died Aft. 1870 in Hawkins Co., TN.

44 iv. Joel Smith, born Abt. 1801 in Hawkins Co., TN.

45 v. Peter Smith, born 04 Jun 1802 in Hawkins Co., TN; died 10 Mar 1859 in Rogersville, Hawkins, TN. He married (1) Nancy Smith 03 Oct 1821 in Hawkins Co., TN; born Abt. 1802 in Of Hawkins Co., TN; died Abt. 1842 in Of Hawkins Co., TN. He married (2) Mary Hamblen 03 Jan 1843 in Hawkins Co., TN; born Abt. 1823 in Of Hawkins Co., TN; died Abt. 1848 in Of Hawkins Co., TN. He married (3) Therza White 16 May 1850 in Jefferson Co., TN; born 24 Apr 1815 in Of Hawkins Co., TN; died 14 Mar 1870.

46 vi. Elizabeth Smith, born 31 Jan 1803 in Hawkins Co., TN; died 14 Jan 1838 in Hawkins Co., TN.

Notes for Elizabeth Smith:

One report indicates this is the Elizabeth W. Smith who married Jonathan Huggins. In that report she was born 31 Jan 1800 and died 7 Aug 1853 in Rutherford Co., TN.

47 vii. John Smith, born 26 Jan 1805 in Hawkins Co., TN.

8. Sarah² Ridley (George¹) was born 28 Nov 1773 in E. TN, and died 23 Nov 1831 in Nashville, Davidson, TN. She married John Buchanan, Jr. 1791 in Davidson Co., TN, son of John Buchanan and Jane Trindle. He was born 12 Jan 1759 in Harrisburg, PA, and died 06 Nov 1832 in Buchanan Sta., Mill Creek, Davidson, TN.

Notes for Sarah Ridley:

The Heroine of Buchanan Station. A great journal of this battle has been preserved.

"... was born in eastern Tennessee ... and had thirteen children, many of whom were distinguished. She was a woman of remarkable courage and fortitude; cool and self-commanding, and being united to a husband who was a celebrated pioneer and Indian-fighter, her associations were calculated to develop those traits of character so necessary in women of the frontier settlements. Her husband had implicit confidence in his wife's judgement, and confided to her all his plans and undertakings, many of which were carefully overlooked by her, and of which she in person promptly executed during the memorable battle at his fort, on the 30th of September, 1792, when the Indians, -- about nine hundred warriors from the combined Cherokees, Chickasaws, and Creeks, -- made an attack at midnight, but were badly defeated by only twenty-one men in the fort. In this fierce conflice of battle, the intrepidity of Mrs. Buchanan's courage, and fearless deeds performed by her, crowned her through life as a model Indian-fighter of the West. Her son, in a letter to the author, says of his mother: "Her many virtues vie with proud fame of Tennessee's greatness; her posterity from five generations is as numerous as the leaves on some forest tree, and, although she died in 1832, she lives in remembrance and affection among hosts of Tennessee's citizenship." She is said to have been the third white woman born in her State."

History of the Ancient Ryedales, Ridlons, Ridleys

Children of Sarah Ridley and John Buchanan are:

48 i. George³ Buchanan, born 11 Oct 1792 in Davidson Co., TN.

49 ii. Alexander Buchanan, born 22 Mar 1794 in Davidson Co., TN; died 1836. He married Mary T. Ridley; born 10 Mar 1802 in GA; died 27 Sep 1745.

Notes for Mary T. Ridley:

" ... descendants are now promiscuously scattered through Tennessee, as useful citizens."

50 iii. Elizabeth Buchanan, born 29 Dec 1795 in Buchanan Sta., Davidson, TN; died 1875. She married Thomas Hardeman Everett 01 Nov 1810 in Nashville, Davidson, TN; born Jun 1783; died 29 Mar 1854 in Davidson Co., TN.

51 iv. Samuel Buchanan, born 27 Aug 1797 in Buchanan Sta., Davidson, TN; died 1836.

52 v. William S. Buchanan, born 12 Jan 1800 in Buchanan Sta., Davidson, TN; died 1849. He married Jane E. Hogan.

53 vi. Jane Trindle Buchanan, born 23 Mar 1802 in Buchanan Sta., Davidson, TN; died 06 May 1837 in Old Jefferson, Rutherford, TN. She married George Goodwin 02 Oct 1817 in Davidson Co., TN; born 28 Apr 1796 in Mill Creek, Nashville, Davidson, TN; died 01 Nov 1836 in AL.

Notes for George Goodwin:

Susan Virginia is not always listed as children of this couple.

54 vii. James Bryant Buchanan I, born 10 Mar 1804 in Buchanan Sta., Davidson, TN; died 06 Jul 1862. He married Lettie Roberts; born Bet. 1804 - 1809; died 04 Apr 1866.

Notes for James Bryant Buchanan I:

1850 census Gambill, Rutherford, TN: Jas B. Buchanan, aged 46, farmer, $2,500, bp TN; Lettetia aged 41, bp TN; Alex, aged 23, blacksmith; Jno H. aged 17; Nancy aged 13; Caroline E. aged 11; Adriana aged 7; Jas B. aged 5 -- all born TN; Louisa Buchanan, aged 17, bp TN.

1860 census District 3, Rutherford, TN: Jas B. Buchanan, aged 57, farmer, real estate valued $45,000, personal property $20,000, bp TN; L. (female) aged 57, bp TN; male A. H. aged 33; females, L. M. aged 33; A. L. aged 17; males J. R. aged 13; G. W. aged 11; female A. A. aged 6; males E. H. aged 2; and B. E. aged 7 months.

55 viii. Moses Ridley Buchanan, born 04 Apr 1806 in Buchanan Sta., Davidson, TN; died 1887. He married Sarah Elizabeth Vincent Ridley 16 Jul 1827 in Nashville, Davidson, TN; born 16 Jul 1810 in Nashville, Davidson, TN; died 28 Jan 1864 in Rutherford Co., TN.

More About Sarah Elizabeth Vincent Ridley:

Burial: Mill Creek Cem., Nashville, Davidson, TN

56 ix. Sarah Vincent Buchanan, born 31 Dec 1807 in Buchanan Sta., Davidson, TN; died 1866. She married James Blanton Williams; born 1794.

57 x. Charles Bingley Buchanan, born 28 Oct 1809; died 1856.

58 xi. Richard Gregory Buchanan, born 03 Nov 1811 in Buchanan Sta., Davidson, TN. He married Mattie A. Murphy; born 1812; died 1840.

59 xii. Henry Ridley Buchanan, born Nov 1814 in Buchanan Sta., Davidson, TN; died 1898.

60 xiii. Nancy Mulherrin Newman Buchanan, born 31 Jul 1818 in Buchanan Sta., Davidson, TN; died 1881. She married (1) Jackson Smith, Sr.; born 1816. She married (2) Henry Bridges.

9. Lettie² Ridley (George¹) was born 24 Nov 1776 in TN. She married James Roberts 05 May 1792 in Nashville, Davidson, TN. He was born Abt. 1774, and died 28 Aug 1840 in Jackson Co., TN.

Notes for Lettie Ridley:

" ... born in eastern Tenenssee ... married to James Roberts, of Jackson County, and had three sons and five daughters, all of whom had large families. One of her granddaughters, Hannah Graham, is [was] the wife of Hon. Peter Turney, one of the supreme judges in the State of Tennessee."

Children of Lettie Ridley and James Roberts are:

61 i. Celina³ Roberts, born Abt. 1806 in TN. She married John Kincaid Sadler 05 Jun 1823 in TN; born 02 Dec 1801 in Maury Co., TN; died 17 Jan 1891 in Bibb Comm., Comanche, TX.

62 ii. Martha 'Patsy' Roberts, born Aft. 1803. She married James R. Sadler; born 15 Mar 1803 in Jackson Co., TN; died Oct 1877 in TX.

63 iii. Aletha Roberts, died Bef. 1840. She married John Graham.

64 iv. Lettie Roberts, born Bet. 1804 - 1809; died 04 Apr 1866. She married James Bryant Buchanan I; born 10 Mar 1804 in Buchanan Sta., Davidson, TN; died 06 Jul 1862.

Notes for James Bryant Buchanan I:

65 v. Zadock Baker Roberts, born 1804. He married Rebecca Hancock.

66 vi. Buchanan Roberts.

67 vii. Ridley Roberts. He married Mary 'Polly' Watts.

Notes for Mary 'Polly' Watts:

Mary Stone, widow.

68 viii. Elizabeth Roberts. She married <Unknown> Hollomon.

10. Vincent Marr² Ridley (George¹) was born 26 Jun 1778 in TN, and died 16 Nov 1852 in Mount Pleasant, Maury, TN. He married Lydia Everett 28 Dec 1799 in Nashville, Davidson, TN, daughter of John Everett and Lydia Hardemann. She was born 1785 in Davidson Co., TN, and died Aft. 1855 in Mount Pleasant, Maury, TN.

Notes for Vincent Marr Ridley:

" ... he was only ten years old when his father moved from the Holston River to west Tennessee. Made a tour through Kentucky by way of the "Crab Orchard" when a small boy. Was with General Andrew Jackson in the battle of New Orleans. Owned a large tract of land in the "New Purchase" in Kentucky."

Children of Vincent Ridley and Lydia Everett are:

69 i. George Martin³ Ridley, born 02 Oct 1800 in Sparta, TN; died 09 Aug 1873 in Kerr Co., TX. He married Martha Louis Young; born 13 Aug 1800.

Notes for George Martin Ridley:

" ... He moved with his father to Maury County, Tenn., in 1809. In 1829 he went to Claiborne parish, La, but having lost his health, he returned to his old homestead in Tennessee in 1832. In 1852 he migrated to San Marcos, Tex. He organized a Masonic Lodge at the latter place in 1853, which was one of the first west of teh Rio Colorado. He cleared a farm in 1854 on the upper Guadalupe River ..., now Kerr County, Tex. In company with his son's family, in1859, he moved to DeWitt County, Tex.; thence to Fort Worth in 1859, and in the spring of 1865 returned to Kerr County, where he broke up house-keeping, and went to live in his daughter's family. Mr. Ridley was a mason of high standing, and assisted in the organization of many lodges in Texas; also several times elected delegate to the Grand Lodge. He was a consisstent Christian, devoted to his Bible, and died in the assurance of a resurrection from the dead to immortality at the second appearing of Jesus Christ on earth."

History of the Ancient Ryedales, Ridlons, Ridleys

70 ii. Thomas Everett Ridley, born 15 Sep 1804 in Sparta, White, TN; died 24 Jun 1852 in off Key West, Monroe, FL. He married Asenath Reese Hudson 31 Jul 1834; born 18 Nov 1813 in Maury Co., TN; died Aft. 1852 in Maury Co., TN.

Notes for Thomas Everett Ridley:

" ... a farmer in middle Tennessee till the excitement about California gold-mines caused him to visit that territory. He assisted in the organization of Mariposa County, and was elected to the first session of the State Legislature. On his way home to get his family he was seized with cholera, and died off Key West."

71 iii. John Topp Ridley, born 22 Jun 1806 in Smith Co., TN; died Aft. 1884 in Hempstead, TX. He married Lavena Klyce 24 Jan 1826 in Maury Co., TN; born Abt. 1809 in Rockbridge Co., VA; died Abt. 1884 in Hempstead Co., TX.

Notes for John Topp Ridley:

"He received a fair English education; apprenticed himself to learn the trade of wagon- and coach-builder, and acquired a handsome fortune in that business. Was a farm-overseer in Alabama a year. Carried on business at Columbia four years; thence moved to Brownsville, Tenn., where he was engaged in business till the spring of 1838, when he moved to a new tract of land in the "New Purchase" of Kentucky, where he carried on farming and manufacturing until he and his family lost their health and were obliged to return to Tennessee. He lost heavily in injudicious investments in mail-contracts and speculation. He is now a thrifty, money-making farmer, owning the farm upon which he lives, one and a half miles from the city of Hempstead, Tex. He has filled several civil, military, and official positions; was chief justice of Fayette County for six years; served as agent under the United States Government in removing the Creek Indians from Alabama to their reservation. He held a commission as captain in the militia. Has lived in seven states. A member of the Methodist church fifty years. Has lived with his wfie fifth-three yerars. He is a gentleman of great worth, esteemed by all who have come within the circle of his acquaintance -- a Christian in every sense."

History of the Ancient Ryedales, Ridlons, Ridleys

72 iv. Winefred Hays Ridley, born 1808 in Maury Co., TN; died Aft. 1884 in Johnsons Grove, TN. She married Rev. James Mitchell; born Bef. 1808.

73 v. Elizabeth Ridley, born Bef. 1809 in Sparta, White, TN. She married <Unknown> Ward.

Notes for <Unknown> Ward:

A carpenter.

74 vi. Rufus King Ridley, born 1810 in Maury Co., TN; died Aft. 1884 in Jacksonport, Jackson, AR. He married <Unknown> Klyce; born Aft. 1811.

75 vii. Sarah Hays Ridley, born 1812 in Maury Co., TN; died Aft. 1884 in Bell Depot, W. TN. She married John Klyce 08 Oct 1832 in Maury Co., TN; born Abt. 1811 in Rockbridge Co., VA; died Abt. 1869 in Haywood Co., TN.

76 viii. Lydia Everett Ridley, born 23 Nov 1815 in Maury Co., TN; died Abt. 1897. She married Henry Augustus Miller 10 Sep 1844 in Maury Co., TN; born 1806 in MD; died 22 Apr 1862 in Mt. Pleasant, TN.

Notes for Lydia Everett Ridley:

nelljack@webtv.net Nell Coulter descends from this line.

Notes for Henry Augustus Miller:

He may have been born between 1790-1800.

77 ix. Young Lafayette Ridley, born 02 Jun 1818 in Maury Co., TN; died 31 Aug 1840 in KY.

11. Thomas E.² Ridley (George¹) was born 16 Feb 1780 in TN, and died 1854 in MS. He married (1) <Unknown> Abt. 1802 in TN. He married (2) Margaret Harwood 1806 in Nashville, Davidson, TN. She was born Aft. 1780 in VA.

Notes for Thomas E. Ridley:

" ... second son of George by his second wife, was born on the Holston River, in Virginia (now Tennessee), Feb. 16, 1780; married Margaret Harwood (whose father was a wealthy Virginian), a lady of fine accomplishments, with a well and correctly cultivated mind, and by her had issue seven children, of whom hereafter. When a boy the subject of this notice moved to Nashville, Tenn. (or near that city), where he received a liberal education; he afterwards followed the profession of school-teacher, in which he acquited himself with credit; his patrons were well pleased with him ; his pupils and all who knew him loved and respected him. He left "no stone unturned" to advance those placed under his care, in morals, integrity, and knowledge. After marriage he settled on his farm in Williamson County, Tenn., where he lived in affluence for many years; was confident of success and prospered in all the undertakings of life. While on his farm he was elected sheriff of his County, and held the office for nine years in immediate succcession, by re-election; and during his term of service generally sympathized with the suffering and afflicted. His purse was open to all who needed or seemed to need assistance, which resulted in wasting the wealth he had hitherto accumulated. He was in every sense a Christian; he cultivated a love of justice to friend or foe; and no one could truthfully say he had wronged anyone in any manner. After having served his County as sheriff acceptably, Thomas Ridley removed to Franklin County, Tenn., where his wife died, leaving four children, who, -- their father's attention to his business demanding his absence from home, -- were carried to his father's (Capt. George Ridley), where they were tenderly cared for and educated. The latter portion of Mr. Ridley's life was spent alternately with his daughters, Mary M. Rhine, who lived in Mississippi, and Louisa A. Horton. A few years anterior to his decease he was afflicted with dyspepsia with which he suffered greatly, till he yielded to the fell disease, and (in 1854) died at the house of one of his granddaughters. He said to those present he was resigned and that all was well. His strong intellect he retained to the last. He was considered, by those who knew him well, one of the best and most honorable men the age had produced."

History of the Ancient Ryedales, Ridlons, Ridleys

Child of Thomas Ridley and <Unknown> is:

78 i. Elizabeth "Eliza"³ Ridley, born 15 Sep 1802 in TN; died 17 Jul 1847 in Columbia, Maury, TN. She married Hezekiah Ward, Sr. 02 May 1822 in Columbia, Maury, TN; born 10 Mar 1795 in VA; died 10 May 1836 in Columbia, Maury, TN.

Children of Thomas Ridley and Margaret Harwood are:

79 i. Sally Vincent³ Ridley, born 04 Jul 1807 in Williamson Co., TN; died Bef. 1880. She married John McNitt.

Notes for John McNitt:

A politician and farmer.

80 ii. Benjamin L. Ridley, born 1809 in Williamson Co., TN; died 1809 in Williamson Co., TN.

81 iii. George J. M. Ridley, born 1811 in Williamson Co., TN; died Child.

82 iv. Mary M. Ridley, born 16 Mar 1813 in Williamson Co., TN; died in TX. She married George J. Rhine.

83 v. Louisa America Ridley, born 23 Apr 1815 in Williamson Co., TN; died Aft. 1884 in Grenada, MS. She married Robertson Horton 03 Jul 1831 in Nashville, Davidson, TN; born 04 Mar 1801 in NC; died 09 Jan 1878 in Grenada, Grenada, MS.

Notes for Robertson Horton:

Robertson Haughton

" ... accumulated considerable wealth by farming ..."

1850 Yalobusha Co., MS census. They had 8 children at this time and 3,500 acres of land. Occupation: Planter

84 vi. Alexander Ridley, born 1817 in Williamson Co., TN; died 1820 in Williamson Co., TN.

85 vii. Benjamin F. Ridley, born 16 Mar 1819 in Williamson Co., TN.

Notes for Benjamin F. Ridley:

He married and had one daughter. "In the death of Benjamin this family became extinct in the male line."

12. Moses² Ridley (George¹) was born 06 Jun 1782 in E. TN, and died 16 Mar 1864 in Stewart's Creek, Rutherford, TN. He married Katherine Haward Oct 1808 in Nashville, Davidson, TN. She was born 11 Mar 1793 in E. TN, and died 11 Nov 1841 in Stewart's Creek, Rutherford, TN.

Notes for Moses Ridley:

Revolutionary Soldier.

He resided on the Harpeth River, in Tennessee, until 1818 when he moved to Stewart's Creek, Rutherford County.

Children of Moses Ridley and Katherine Haward are:

86 i. John Clark³ Ridley, born 07 Oct 1810 in Harpeth River, TN; died Aft. 1864 in Kerr Co., TX. He married (1) Caroline Elizabeth Morton 16 Jun 1831 in Rutherford Co., TN. He married (2) Nancy Allison Ridley 04 Mar 1841 in Rutherford Co., TN; born 19 Nov 1823 in Stewart's Creek, Rutherford, TN; died Aft. 1884 in Murfreesboro, Rutherford, TN. He married (3) Livonia Candette Ridley 06 Nov 1855; born 11 Nov 1824 in Maury Co., TN.

Notes for John Clark Ridley:

" ... He moved with his father's family in 1818 to Stewart's Creek, Rutherford County; thence in 1848 went to Madison County, Miss. In 1850 he went to Florida, and settled the place called (in honor of his name) "Ridleyville," on the Apalachicola River, in Gadsden County. He removed to Kerr County, Tex., then unorganized; in 1858 moved to DeWittt County, and thence, in 1864, returned to Kerr County, where he has since resided, and is engaged in farming, having almost discontinued the practice of his profession."

He must have been divorced or separated from his second wife, as each remarried.

Notes for Nancy Allison Ridley:

" ... a woman who deserves more than a passing notice; her experience during the late war brought out remarkable traits of character. Her residence was near Huntingdon, Tenn., and as her husband was prominent as a public speaker in favor of the war, he retired before the Union army, and she was left alone in charge of their large property, a place that was much frequented by the Federal soldiers, who soon cariried away nearly everything available. Mrs. Allen had a very valuable young horse which she managed to keep secreted by running him from county to county; the Union soldiers swore they would have this horse, and she was equally determined they should not. "As soon as the Yankees had left Huntingdon," says Mrs. Allen, "I sent for my 'Rocky Mountain' (the name of her horse), and having heard of some Confederates who were to cross the Tennessee River by night, I sent them a note requesting them to call and see me before their departure. They rode up at eleven o'clock at night, and found me with my three-year old stallion saddled and bridled; I mounted him and rode all night, reaching the river at day-break, and there, unexpectedly, I found Colonel Allen." After remaining with her husband several days she decided to return and try to save her house from being burned. Colonel Allen purchased a horse and buggy for her, hoping she would be able to collect and save her clothing which had been scattered from place to place; but the Yankees took the team and what clothing she had at home, immediately on her return. She says: "I had some meat buried in an old ash-hopper, and some salt and molasses under the kitchen floor; but one of my negroes who had watched me when these things were hid (this negro's wife being Mrs. Allen's cook, was allowed to live in a house in the yard, and all the bed-clothes belonging to the mansion were hid there), approached my door the next morning with revolver in hand. I asked him mildly what he wanted, and was answered with impudence and threats. I was determined to kill him if I could, and ran into the house for my revolver, when a lady who was stopping with me caught hold of me and said, 'for God's sake don't shoot! I see a hundred blue-coats waiting to see what you are going to do' ; and in a minute my house was surrounded by Yankees; they found my revolver, and I supposed I should be killed. The negro-woman, Anna, went to her cabin and found it broken open, and the soldiers packing my bed-clothing over the fence. I went out to beg them to spare me these, when one of them drew his revolver, and cursing, threatened to shoot me. The following day they went out on the Jackson road, and my friends from Huntingdon persuaded me to leave my home and go to town, which, having packed what clothing my faithful dog could carry on his back, and what I could carry, I did. That night old Captain Kidd, who was a Federal, came to the house where I was stopping, looking for a negro waiting-man who had been our slave, and when he learned who I was, he said he heard that I was shamefully treated. I said I had suffered everything but death. When h learned that my piano and some beds had been left at my house, he politely offered to go with me and bring them to town. When we had reached the house the front gallery was covered with fodder-oats and beef-heads; and the interior of the house was shamefully desecrated and dilapidated. When Captain Kidd saw the condition of my house he exclaimed, 'Good God, what villiany! Madam, I have heard you are a perfect lady, and I see by your deportment that you were well raised. I am sorry for you.' An old negro who had loved his master and mistress, soon came in, when Captain Kidd said, 'old man, are there horses and wagons here with which to take these things to town?' He replied, 'No, master, the Yanks have cleared the place; twenty-two fine horses and mules are gone.' 'Are there no oxen and wagon?' asked the old captain. 'I don't know, master,' said the negro; 'I saw them in the field last night.' The old negro found the oxen, and all that was in my house was taken to town." Mrs. Allen says: "My great desire was to get to my husband, and I determined to walk with a pack on my back as a beggar; but the day before I was to start on my journey, a lady friend sent me a note telling me she would let me have a horse which she desired to send to her husband over the river, and I gladly accepted her offer. I sewed up a sheet and packed what clothing I had upon the horse; then went to a neighbor's to tarry for the night, and after a supper and breakfast of opossum and sweet potatoes, with a lunch of the same food, I started on my lonely journey with no companion but my faithful, intelligent dog. I was in constant fear of being overtaken, and knowing I must cross a long, dreary bottom, I rode to the door of Mr. Bartlett's house and desired him to accompany me to the river, but he was afraid to go; consequently I rode on till I came to a long bridge, when the horse refused to go forward, and I was obliged to dismount and lead him a long distance before I could find a place suitable to get on again. The day was drawing to a close when I reached the river, and hailing the ferry-man I soon found myself among acquaintances; thence pressing forward, attended by some soldiers, I reached Waverly at dark, and found Colonel Allen at the hotel; he knew my dog and came out to meet me." After boarding at Waverly several months, Mrs. Allen went to the home of her mother, near Smyrna Depot, and while at dinner on Christmas day, -- her mother having made a feast, -- the Union army advanced, and the shot and shell whistled around the house on every side. Colonel Allen, having no good saddle, found a boy's saddle without stirrups, and without a word of farewell escaped, leaving his wife without a dime in her pocket. She then saw her mother's property destroyed and carried away, except her monty and a few things she had assisted in secreting. Her husband, who had been employed in buying supplies for the Confederate army, failed in health and retired from the service, took the oath of allediance, and, with his wife, went back to his old home near Huntingdon. Finding their mansion very much in ruins, it was rented, and they commenced house-keeping in one of the negro cabins. Mrs. Allen says: "A neighbor let Colonel Allen have some bacon and meal, and we made out after a fashion, by no means pleasant; but I put on my best face to keep up the spirits of my husband; I reminded him that he was splendid at many games of cards, when he remarked, 'wife, I'll try it. I think I'll win some coffee to-day'; and sure enough he brought me sugar, coffee, and candles that night. I felt that I was rich, and was proud that my husband had learned to play cards. We soon moved into our house, and as there was much traveling on the Rosser ferry-road, I took in travelers and made a pretty good start by working myself almost to death; determined, however, that my husband should not know how hard it was for me to be poor." Her husband had resumed the practice of his profession, but failing in health by lapse of age, and broken down by misfortune, he did not long survive, and Mrs. Allen is now a widow, with no property save a residence at Waverly. She is now living with her sister in the city of Murfreesborogh, Tenn. The author has devoted considerable space to this article to show the heroism of a noble-hearted woman and devoted wife; and to show the vicissitudes and misfortunes of war."

History of the Ancient Ryedales, Ridlons, Ridleys

87 ii. Rev. George Vincent Ridley, born 03 Jul 1811 in Williamson Co., TN; died 1892. He married Emma Cannon 14 Jul 1836; born 22 Apr 1812.

Notes for Rev. George Vincent Ridley:

"Entered Cumberland College in 1829; was converted the same year and united with the Cumberland Presbyterian Church. Was impressed with a duty to preach the Gospel, and entered Harpeth Academy in 1831, under the care of Rev. James Otny, afterwards bishop of the Episcopal church. Was licensed to preach in 1833, and occupied a circuit one year, then entered Cumberland College the second time. Had a trouble with his eyes, which almost resulted in blindness. Taught school in 1835; ordained to the work of the ministry in 1836. He is now living in Warrensburgh, Mo. He is a staunch defender of teh cause of temperance, having become a total abstainer many years ago, when intoxicants were kept by the barrel in almost every house."

88 iii. <Infant> Ridley, born 07 May 1813 in Rutherford Co., TN; died 07 May 1813 in Rutherford Co., TN.

89 iv. Louisa Abigail Ridley, born 09 Apr 1815 in Williamson Co., TN; died Aft. 1884 in Murfreesboro, Rutherford, TN. She married Lewis Garner 02 Apr 1835; born Abt. 1814.

Notes for Lewis Garner:

1850 Rutherford Co., TN

Dwelling/Family # 969

Lewis GARNER, 36, male, Farmer, real estate value $15,000, b. NC

Louisa, age 35, TN

Catherine, 13, TN

May L., 11

Ca????, age 9, female, TN

Louis? G. age 12, male, TN

Louisa, age 3, female, TN

others with last name Jarrat, Bogean?, Levi Dennis, male, (33) (methodist preacher) and his wife Martha (30) and dau. Puss (1) - all born in TN

(It is possible that some of these were not their children)

90 v. Sarah 'Sally' Buchanan Ridley, born 08 Feb 1817 in Rutherford Co., TN; died 20 Sep 1852. She married John C. Newsom; died 28 Aug 1852.

Notes for John C. Newsom:

Eldridge and Mary (Polly) NEWSOM had a son named John R. NEWSOM, (died August 28, 1852), whose will appears in Williamson County, TN Will Book 10, Page 375. In his will he mentions his "brother-n-law Lewis GARNER of Rutherford Co., TN as executor" of his will...

91 vi. Susan Margaret Ridley, born 04 Sep 1818; died Apr 1877. She married Frank Newsom.

92 vii. William Henry Ridley, born 16 Jun 1822 in Rutherford Co., TN; died 13 Aug 1823 in Rutherford Co., TN.

93 viii. Washington Green Ridley, born 21 Nov 1823 in Williamson Co., TN; died 05 Apr 1862 in CSA. He married Mary Jane Carlton 10 Oct 1849 in Rutherford Co., TN; born 15 Oct 1824; died 29 May 1876 in Smyrna, TN.

Notes for Washington Green Ridley:

" ... died in the Confederate army during the Rebellion ... leaving several children ... He served in the Mexicon war under General Pillow; ewas at the siege of Vera Cruz. He enlisted in the Confederate army in 1861, and served in the Second Tennessee Regiment until the day of his death."

94 ix. Narcissa Frances Ridley, born 01 Nov 1825 in Rutherford Co., TN; died Feb 1863 in Murfreesboro, Rutherford, TN. She married Dr. John C. Kirkpatrick.

95 x. Samuellen Jones Ridley, born 18 Sep 1827 in Rutherford Co., TN; died 26 Jun 1905 in Smyrna, Rutherford, TN. She married Col. William Kerr Patterson 27 Nov 1849; born Bef. 1827; died Bef. Dec 1911.

More About Samuellen Jones Ridley:

Burial: Patterson Cemetery, Rutherford Co., TN

Notes for Col. William Kerr Patterson:

Colonel of the 8th AR Infantry, and later judge of a military court.

Of Arkansas, a lawyer and representative in the State Legislature. Later residing in Smyrna, TN.

96 xi. Mary Josephine Ridley, born 16 Nov 1829 in Rutherford Co., TN. She married H. M. Jones Apr 1858; died in of AR.

97 xii. Amanda C. Ridley, born Bef. 1835 in Rutherford Co., TN; died 23 Jun 1835 in Rutherford Co., TN.

13. James M.² Ridley (George¹) was born 24 May 1784 in TN, and died 30 Aug 1847 in Nashville, Davidson, TN. He married Ann 'Amy' Hamilton 09 Feb 1806 in Nashville, Davidson, TN, daughter of Hance Hamilton and Mary McNairy. She was born 15 Jan 1786, and died 02 Feb 1857 in Nashville, Davidson, TN.

Notes for James M. Ridley:

"He lived and died in Davidson County, Tenn., near the residence of Gen. Andrew Jackson, with whom he served in the Indian battles of the South, and acquired a lasting favoritism with the old hero for signal service and promptness in the discharge of duties in the commissary department. He was a wagon-master, and on one occasion, when an attack was about to be made by the Indians on Jackson's advanced force, intelligence was sent the commander that a number of his wagons were detained in a muddy stream and unable to move for want of help. The danger of the surroundings was iminent and prompt action was required to have the wagons moved forward. Jackson despatched an officer with a detachment of men back to the wagon-train, already buried in water and mud; it was but a short time, however, before hte officer reported to the general in person that it was impossible to move the wagons. On the reception of the report Jackson straightened himself in the saddle and said, "By the Eternal! send Jimmy Ridley to me and I will have every wagon out in an hour." Ridley was soon sent forward but found the train more difficult to move than the General had anticipated. Impatience prompted to Jackson to ride back to the place of detention and give his personal direction; on reaching the spot he found several officers sitting on their horses apparently unconcerned, while Ridley was at a wheel, covered with the mud and slimy water, lifting with all his power. No sooner had the General's keen eyes espied him than he dashed his horse to his side, nad swinging his sword over his head, shouted at the top of his voice "By the Eternal! if I had ten thousand Jimmy Ridleys, I could storm hell and capture the devil." Mr. Ridley never forgot the event and often mentioned it in after life with feelings of pride and pleasure. He and General Jackson lived and died within three miles of each other, the most profound confidence and friendship existing between them through life."

History of the Ancient Ryedales, Ridlons, Ridleys.

More About James M. Ridley:

Burial: Mill Creek Cem., Nashville, Davidson, TN

Children of James Ridley and Ann Hamilton are:

98 i. Mary Ann³ Ridley, born Apr 1807 in Nashville, Davidson, TN; died 01 Sep 1817 in Nashville, Davidson, TN.

More About Mary Ann Ridley:

Burial: Mill Creek Cem., Nashville, Davidson, TN

99 ii. Samuel Jones Ridley, born Dec 1807 in Nashville, Davidson, TN; died 15 Sep 1824 in Nashville, Davidson, TN.

More About Samuel Jones Ridley:

Burial: Mill Creek Cem., Nashville, Davidson, TN

100 iii. Hance Hamilton Ridley, born 01 Sep 1808 in Nashville, Davidson, TN; died 27 Oct 1867 in McKenzie, Carroll, TN. He married (1) Sarah Buchanan Everett 09 Jun 1830 in Davidson Co., TN; born 07 Aug 1811 in TN; died 17 Sep 1837 in TN. He married (2) Amanda R. Joslin Aft. 1837.

More About Sarah Buchanan Everett:

Burial: Mill Creek Cem., Nashville, Davidson, TN

101 iv. Sarah Elizabeth Vincent Ridley, born 16 Jul 1810 in Nashville, Davidson, TN; died 28 Jan 1864 in Rutherford Co., TN. She married Moses Ridley Buchanan 16 Jul 1827 in Nashville, Davidson, TN; born 04 Apr 1806 in Buchanan Sta., Davidson, TN; died 1887.

More About Sarah Elizabeth Vincent Ridley:

Burial: Mill Creek Cem., Nashville, Davidson, TN

102 v. George Thomas Ridley, born 30 Mar 1812 in Nashville, Davidson, TN; died 18 Apr 1862 in Carroll Co., tn. He married Mary H. Dodson 25 Jun 1834 in Nashville, Davidson, TN; born 28 Mar 1818 in Nashville, Davidson, TN; died 06 Sep 1867 in McKenzie, Carroll, TN.

103 vi. James M. Ridley, Jr., born 08 Feb 1814 in Nashville, Davidson, TN; died 31 Jan 1886 in Nashville, Davidson, TN. He married Hannah Hudnall Williams 30 Jun 1836 in Rutherford Co., TN; born 10 Nov 1820 in NC; died 09 Mar 1858 in Paris, Henry, TN.

Notes for James M. Ridley, Jr.:

Resided near Thompson's Station, Williamson Co., TN.

More About James M. Ridley, Jr.:

Burial: Mill Creek Cem., Nashville, Davidson, TN

104 vii. Moses McNairy Ridley, born 18 Mar 1816 in Nashville, Davidson, TN; died 05 Apr 1893 in Donelson, Davidson, TN. He married (1) Mary Elizabeth Baker 05 Apr 1841 in Nashville, Davidson, TN; born 15 Nov 1822 in Wilson Co., TN; died 19 Jan 1862 in Donelson, Davidson, TN. He married (2) Prudence Eason 31 Oct 1866 in Donelson, Davidson, TN.

Notes for Moses McNairy Ridley:

A farmer, resided seven miles east of Nashville.

105 viii. John Boyd Ridley, born 17 Feb 1818 in Nashville, Davidson, TN; died 1882 in Thompson Sta., Williamson, TN. He married Mary Agnes Ellen Rachel Jackson Dodso Fitzgerald 09 Jan 1845 in Nashville, Davidson, TN; born 1828; died 1880.

Notes for John Boyd Ridley:

or John Buchanan Ridley

James and Amy Ridley's son, John Boyd Ridley, probably met his future wife, Mary Agnes Ellen Rachel Jackson Dodson Fitzgerald, there as she visited in the home of Jackson.

Notes for Mary Agnes Ellen Rachel Jackson Dodso Fitzgerald:

Mary Agnes Ellen Rachel Jackson Dodson Fitzgerald

106 ix. Anne Hamilton Ridley, born 1820 in Nashville, Davidson, TN; died 1878 in Humbolt, TN. She married Dr. Pleasant Henderson Mitchell 05 Apr 1834 in Davidson Co., TN; born 1806; died 1873 in Humbolt, TN.

107 x. <Infant> Ridley, born Dec 1821 in Davidson Co., TN; died 12 Aug 1822 in Nashville, Davidson, TN.

More About <Infant> Ridley:

Burial: Mill Creek Cem., Nashville, Davidson, TN

108 xi. <Infant> Ridley, born 04 Jun 1824 in Nashville, Davidson, TN; died 04 Jun 1824 in Nashville, Davidson, TN.

More About <Infant> Ridley:

Burial: Mill Creek Cem., Nashville, Davidson, TN

109 xii. Samuel Jones Ridley, born Dec 1827 in Nashville, Davidson, TN; died 17 May 1843 in Nashville, Davidson, TN.

14. Abigail² Ridley (George¹) was born 26 Apr 1786 in E. TN, and died Bef. 1836 in Nashville, Davidson, TN. She married Dr. Charles Mulherin Bef. 1805 in Nashville, Davidson, TN, son of James Mulherin and Nancy Buchanan.

Notes for Abigail Ridley:

Descendants were farmers of wealth and note.

Notes for Dr. Charles Mulherin:

Dr. Charles Mulherin attended medical college at Philadelphia and later graduated in medicine at Edenburg. He was at New Orleans with General Jackson as United States surgeon.

Children of Abigail Ridley and Charles Mulherin are:

110 i. James³ Mulherin, born Abt. 1805 in Near Nashville, Davidson, TN; died in of LA.

111 ii. George Ridley Mulherin, born Abt. 1807 in Nashville, Davidson, TN. He married <Unknown> Frost.

112 iii. Maj. Samuel Henry Mulherin, born 29 Feb 1812 in Nashville, Davidson, TN; died 08 Jul 1880 in Williamson Co., TN. He married (1) Martha Elizabeth Anthony; died Dec 1862. He married (2) Jane Taylor 1865 in Canton, MS; born in of Canton, MS.

Notes for Maj. Samuel Henry Mulherin:

Born while his father was at New Orleans with General Jackson as United States surgeon.

113 iv. Charles Buchanan Mulherin, born 1810 in Nashville, Davidson, TN; died 1886. He married (1) Elizabeth D. Pope; died Aft. 1844. He married (2) Ann C. Durham; born 1821; died 1853. He married (3) Nancy Hinds Goodman; born 1811; died 1881.

17. Henry² Ridley (George¹) was born 29 May 1794 in Nashville, Davidson, TN, and died 22 Jul 1835 in Smyrna, Rutherford, TN. He married Elizabeth Allison 04 Jan 1815 in Williamson Co., TN, daughter of James Allison and Nancy Ogilvie. She was born 04 Jun 1797, and died 04 Jun 1873.

Notes for Henry Ridley:

"He was a man of considerable note and of great agricultural worth; was a member of the State convention to amend the State constitution."

Children of Henry Ridley and Elizabeth Allison are:

114 i. James Derrick³ Ridley, born 1816 in Stuarts Creek, Rutherford, TN; died 1816 in Stuarts Creek, Rutherford, TN.

115 ii. George Granville Ridley, born 01 Nov 1817 in Stuarts Creek, Rutherford, TN; died 28 Nov 1844. He married Rebecca Brown McEwen Bef. 1842 in TN; born Abt. 1826 in Franklin, Williamson, TN.

Notes for Rebecca Brown McEwen:

A niece of Gov. Aaron V. Brown.

Or Sally McEwen.

116 iii. William A. Ridley, born 06 Mar 1819 in Stuarts Creek, Rutherford, TN. He married (1) <Daughter> Anthony. He married (2) <Unknown> Shillcut.

117 iv. Samuel Jones Ridley, born 04 Feb 1821 in Stuarts Creek, Rutherford, TN; died 16 May 1863 in Bakers Creek, Vicksburg, CSA, Warren, MS. He married (1) Sarah Caroline McEwen 08 Sep 1846 in Williamson Co., TN; born Abt. 1826; died Apr 1848 in Madison Co., TN. He married (2) Hannah McMahon 1855 in Canton, Madison, TN; born Abt. 1837 in Canton, Madison, TN.

Notes for Samuel Jones Ridley:

"He had charge of a celebrated battery in the Confederate army, during the Southern war, and fought with desperation at the battle of Vicksburg, Miss., -- his home, --- where he was killed, after all his men had fallen, while defending his guns with his revolver; and after his death-blindness came on he continued to strike with his sword till he expired ..."

118 v. James Allison Ridley, born 25 Dec 1822 in Stuarts Creek, Rutherford, TN; died 10 Dec 1895 in Rutherford Co., TN. He married (1) Almira Pauline Russworm 23 Dec 1845 in Williamson Co., TN; born 1826 in TN; died 1851 in Rutherford Co., TN. He married (2) <Unknown> Copeland Aft. 1850. He married (3) <Daughter> Clark Aft. 1855.

Notes for James Allison Ridley:

"He was captain in the Confederate army, and fought bravely through the war from beginning to its close; he was called "the brave old Captain Ridley" wby the soldiers. He did not receive a wound during the war though frequently exposed to showers of lead. He is said to be "an uncompromising Democrat of the Andrew Jackson stripe"; and in 1873 was senator in the Tennessee Legislature. Since the war he has discontinued the practice of medicine and has turned his attention to farming; resides near the city of Nashville. Was considered a skillful physician but did not like his profession. He is tall, erect, and commanding in person; is possessed of strong intellectual powers, and an active, spirited temperament."

Notes for <Daughter> Clark:

She married 1st Mr. Vanlee, and was widowed.

119 vi. Nancy Allison Ridley, born 19 Nov 1823 in Stewart's Creek, Rutherford, TN; died Aft. 1884 in Murfreesboro, Rutherford, TN. She married (1) John Clark Ridley 04 Mar 1841 in Rutherford Co., TN; born 07 Oct 1810 in Harpeth River, TN; died Aft. 1864 in Kerr Co., TX. She married (2) Col. Valentine S. Allen 04 Sep 1854 in Rutherford Co., TN; born 10 Oct 1802 in NC.

Notes for Nancy Allison Ridley:

History of the Ancient Ryedales, Ridlons, Ridleys

Notes for John Clark Ridley:

He must have been divorced or separated from his second wife, as each remarried.

Notes for Col. Valentine S. Allen:

A lawyer by profession, who won distinction in public life.

120 vii. Mary Jane Ridley, born 06 Feb 1829 in Stuarts Creek, Rutherford, TN. She married Dr. James Bromfield Ridley 08 Nov 1855; born 19 Dec 1825 in Hillsboro, Jones Co., GA.

121 viii. Sarah Elizabeth 'Sallie' Ridley, born 18 Apr 1831 in Stuarts Creek, Rutherford, TN. She married Camillus Brennus Huggins; born 05 Jun 1822 in Murfreesboro, Rutherford, TN; died 09 Feb 1910.

Notes for Camillus Brennus Huggins:

Cousin to his wife, a banker and lawyer in the city of Murfreesborough, Tenn. Lived in affluence. His maternal grandmother, Elizabeth W. Smith, is said to be the same Elizabeth Smith that was the daughter of Elizabeth Ridley and William Smith (though the dates from two alternate genealogies are different for Elizabeth Smith).

122 ix. Henry Ridley, born Aft. 1831.

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