In the course of trying to identify the family of my ancestor William Bell (d. 1800 Orange Co.), I
have collected a large quantity of primary-source information on the various persons by that
name who lived in Virginia during the eighteenth century. All of those sources are abstracted or
transcribed below.
2. Augusta County Baptisms. William and James Bell (twins), sons of James Bell, baptized
December 12, 1740. [Augusta County, Virginia Baptismal Records 1740-1749, by Fay Maxwell,
page 2.]
3. Augusta County Baptisms. William Bell, son of James Bell, baptized July 12, 1741.
[Augusta County, Virginia Baptismal Records 1740-1749, by Fay Maxwell, page 2.]
4. Augusta County Baptisms. William Bell, son of Thomas Bell, baptized June 6, 1742.
[Augusta County, Virginia Baptismal Records 1740-1749, by Fay Maxwell, page 2.]
4a. Gravestone, Augusta Stone Church, Ft. Defiance, Augusta County, Virginia. Major William Bell. Born 1744, died August 22, 1833. [Inscriptions from Augusta Stone Church (Oldest Cemetery), Ft. Defiance, Augusta County, Virginia; Prepared by: Mrs. C. F. Rudolph, Washington, DC (1953) (reformatted by R. Tracy Hunter, Jan. 2000) (found posted in its entirely at members.aol.com/rth9202/stonecem.doc in March 2005)]
5. Augusta County Order Book No. I, August 19, 1747, page 248. John Pickens and Wm. Bell
to be overseers of the road ... from Co. Ho. to Picken's Mill, with these tithables:
Wm. Lewis, James Robertson, Thomas Gordon, Wm. Baskins, James Lasley, James Wallis,
Danl. Deniston, Daniel Deniston, Jr., William Bell, Jr., John Poge, Geo. Crawford. [Chalkley's
Chronicles, Volume 1, page 30.]
6. Augusta Parish Vestry Book, page 24. John Lynn and Robert Young report, viz: 8th March,
1747-8, processioned for John Henderson, Samuel Downey, Wm. Nutt, James McCorkle, Wm.
Ledgerwood, Alex. McFeters, James Gilmore's, Robert Davies, Wm. and James Bell, John
Lynn. [Chalkley's Chronicles, Volume 2, pages 435-436.]
7. Augusta County Will Book 1, page 324. Will of James Bell of the Parish and County of Augusta. Sick and weak but of perfect memory. To wife Rachel Bell all household goods and implements belonging to the plantation work and my two working horses. She shall have the use of the plantation whereon I now live to support my children, until my son William Bell arrive at the age of 21 years, at which time I leave said plantation to him and his heirs. To my son James Bell, 400 acres on a spring branch of Jeninces [?] Branch, and one tract on a spring run a branch of Cathys River and near joyning to the plantation whereon I live. Whereas I have bargained and sold to my cousin Andrew Foster one tract on a spring branch of said Catheys River commonly known as McClures Run, it is my will that said Foster have the said land, he paying to my executors the just sum of ?43 being the sum conditioned for; but if said Foster does not insist for said land, I give it to my son James Bell, he paying thereout unto his sisters hereafter mentioned ye sum of ?20 so soon as he shall arrive at the age of 23 years. But if said Foster hold said land, I will that my said son James Bell have thereout the sum of ?23. All my stock of horse and cow to be sold to the best advantage, and one-fifth part thereof, with all my hogs and sheep, to my wife Rachel Bell. To my four daughters Margret Bell, Elizabeth Bell, Marey Ann Bell, and Jean Bell, the other four-fifths part of my stock, with all the just and solvent debts due to me, to be equally divided and paid to them as they come of age. To my nephews William Bell and James Bell, the land whereon they now dwell, commonly known as Smiths Spring. If either of my two sons die in their non-age, then one-third part of his estate shall go to his brother and the other two-thirds to be equally divided between his mother and his sisters. To my said son Will. Bell, one natural pawing [?] bay mare aged three years old next spring. To my said son Jas. Bell, one natural pawing [?] mare aged two years next spring. Executors: wife Rachel Bell and nephew James Bell. Executed 27 February 1747/8. [signed] James Bell. Witnesses: Alexander Craford, Robt. Renik [? - looks like "Renix" in the probate statement], Samuel Bell. Probated 28 May 1752, presented by both executors and proved by all witnesses. Securities with executors: John Archer, Thomas Armstrong; bond for ?500. [my abstract from a copy of the recorded will; see my note above regarding "my abstracts"]
8. Augusta County Will Book 1, page 388. 4th September, 1751. Vendue by George Anderson
and Robert Patterson upon estate of James Crawford. To Wm. Bell. Mathew Armstrong, Thomas
Story, Edward Ritledge, Robt. Craig, Saml. Mullene, John Patterson, Saml. Keer, Pat Crawford,
James Henderson, Timothy Coll. [Chalkley's Chronicles, Volume 3, page 23.]
9. Augusta County Order Book No. III, November 27, 1751, page 202. Grand Jury--James
Trimble, James Caldwell, Wm. Baskins, Wm. Henderson, Robert Patterson, Alexr. Thompson,
Andrew Russell, Mathew Armstrong, Archibald Hamilton, Thos. Gordon, Wm. Bell, James
Robinson, Patrick McCullow, James Callison, Alexr. McFeeters, Thomas Waters. [Chalkley's
Chronicles, Volume 1, page 48.]
10. Augusta County Order Book No. III, November 15, 1752, page 361. Samuel Givins, Robert
Patrick, to view, and Ro. Patrick, Wm. Hines, John Hawes, Joseph Bell, Wm. Bell, Wm. Finla,
Archd. Stewart, Richd. Pilson, Wm. Johnston, Ro. Wilson, John Hind, Geo. Skilleron, Hugh
Ross, Andr. Baskin, John Givins, Saml. Henderson, John Ramsey, Alexr. Henderson, Saml.
Henderson, Nathl. Woodroof, David Logan and George Duglass, clear and keep in repair, a road
from James Givin's Mill to the road over Wood's New Gap at foot of mountain. [Chalkley's
Chronicles, Volume 1, page 55.]
11. Augusta County, Original Petitions and Papers Filed in the County Court, May, 1753. Road
established from Brown's bridge to the Glebe land, and Robert Campbell and John Trimble be
surveyors, and with James Lusk, they clear and keep the same in order. We do appoint Robert
Campbell and John Trimble overseers from John Brown's bridge to the Gleve House and the
undernamed persons to clear the same: James Lusk, Robert Roberson, Samuel McCuchen,
William Hunter, James Hunter, Robert Campbell's man, Mathew Wilson, William Wilson, John
Wilson, Jr., John McCleery, James McCleery, Thomas Kirkpatrick and son . . . Robert Scott,
John Vance, Andrew Foster, William Bell, Alexander McKiney, John Speer, Abraham Mathan
(Mashaw), Robert Young . . . . [Chalkley's Chronicles, Volume 1, pages 443-444.]
12. Revolutionary War Pension File; S.30,855; National Archives; Washington, D.C. Soldier:
William Bell. Born May 1754 in Orange County, Virginia. Enlisted in Franklin County,
Virginia. Residing in Barren County, Kentucky, when applied for pension in 1833. [my abstract
from a microfilm copy of the pension file]
13. Augusta County Order Book No. IV, November 21, 1754, page 325. James McDonald,
indented Servt. to Wm. Bell. [Chalkley's Chronicles, Volume 1 page 65.]
14. Augusta County, Delinquents in the Tax Levies, 1755. List of Robert Breckinridge, Sheriff:
Zachariah Bell, gone to Carolina; Jno. Carpenter, not found; Robt. Caldwell, not found ... Jno.
Watman, not found; Wm. Williams, runaway; Geo. Breckinridge, twice charged; Wm. Bell, twice
charged; John Cosby, twice charged; . . . Edward Moore, runaway; James and John Hunter.
[Chalkley's Chronicles, Volume 2, pages 416-417.]
15. Augusta Parish Vestry Book, page 147. 1755: Samuel Givens processioned as follows, viz:
For Patt. Crawford, present; for Jno. Givens; for Samuel Givens; for Wm. Givens . . . for Andrew
Carr. John Finley and Alex. Crawford processioned as follows, viz: For James Sayers, for Alex.
Gibson, for Andrew Foster, for Wm. Bell, for Thos. Armstrong, for Mathew Edmison, for Rob.
Gilkison, for Thos. Gardner; James Bell's widow cannot show her lines; for John Trimble, for
John Finley, for David Trimble, for Daniel McAnare, for Thos. Beard, for Alex. Crawford, for
Jno. Allit, for James Kirk, for Robert Armstrong, for Robert McCitrick. [Chalkley's Chronicles,
Volume 2, pages 435-436.]
16. Augusta County Order Book No. IV, March 20, 1755, page 383. Wm. Bell says process in
suit Saml. Hughes vs. Wm. Bell was served on Wm. Bell, his father--injunction granted.
[Chalkley's Chronicles, Volume 1, page 66.]
17. Orange County Order Book 6, 25 July 1755, page 158. George Taylor, Esqr. as Colonel of the
Militia, Rowland Thomas, Richd. Thomas and William Bell, Gent., as Captains, took the oath to
his Majesty's person and government and subscribed the test. [Pamunkey Neighbors of Orange
County, Virginia, by Ruth Trickey Sparacio and Sam Sparacio, page 67.]
18. Augusta Parish Vestry Book, page 179. 1756: Processioned in Capt. Israel Christian's
Company by John Henderson and Wm. Baskins, viz: For Rev. John Craig, for Daniel Denniston,
for James Wallace . . . for Mr. Shodder, for Wm. Bell, for Wm. Wallace, for Robert
McClenachan, for Alex. Wright, for Samuel Wilson, for John Cunningham, for Alex. McNite, for
John Black, for Nathan Gililand, for John Bigham . . . . [Chalkley's Chronicles, Volume 2, page
444.]
19. Augusta County Will Book 2, page 174. Alexander Matheson's will, doctor To William
Robertson, his rifle gun and flowered plush jacket; to John Robertson, great coat, saddle and
bridle, course stockings and course shirts; to James, son of Mathew Robertson, cutlass; to
Mathew Robertson, £6; to Silas Hart, £6; to brother Gilbert Matheson, 5 shillings; to brother
Mathew Matheson; to father, John Matheson, 5 shillings and remainder of the estate. Executors,
Mathew Robertson and Silas Hart. Teste: James Henderson, James Robertson, Wm. Bell.
Executed 4th September, 1756. Proved, 18th November, 1756, by Henderson. Mathew refuses to
execute. Silas Hart qualifies with James Allen and Daniel Smith. [Chalkley's Chronicles, Volume
3, pages 43-44.]
20. Augusta County Will Book 2, page 195. Will of William Bell of the Parish and County of
Augusta. To be buried at the Stone Meeting House close by my beloved wife lately [de]ceased.
To my son Joseph, the plantation on whom [sic] I did live, with all bonds, bills, notes, and debts
due to me with the rest of said plantation, except that such debts as are due by me shall be paid
out of the aforesaid bond, bills, and notes. Also to Joseph, my horse on whom I used to ride;
likewise my bed and bedding of cloaths; only that my daughter Mary is to have the use of the
bed and bedding of cloaths until said Joseph has occasion for them. To my daughter Mary, my
saddle and the gold ring which I usually did wear. To my son Edward Baird my gunn, a harrow,
and a bed sted and a silk cap. If my son Joseph should chance to die before he comes home
from Carolina the estate left to him is to be equally divided between my sons William Bell,
David Bell, Saml. Bell, and Edward Baird. Executors: my sons David Bell and Edward Baird.
Executed July 25, 1757. [signed] William Bell. Note that I do leave & Bequeath unto Every one
of my other Children the sum of one Shilling Sterling. [signed] William Bell. Witnesses: Robert
McM'han, John Theobald Maighan. Probated August 17, 1757. [The probate statement spells
Edward's name "Edward Beard", and says that David Bell is not in this Colony.] Bond of
Edward Beard, Henry Reaburn, and James Craig, £500, to inventory the goods, chattels, and
credits of William Bell deceased. Executed and recorded August 17, 1757. [my abstract from a
copy of the recorded will and bond; see my note above regarding "my abstracts"]
21. Augusta County Order Book No. VI, August 19, 1757, page 8. William Bell., Sr.--suit
abates by death of. [Chalkley's Chronicles, Volume 1, page 77.]
22. Augusta County Will Book 2, page 215. Inventory of the movable estate of William Bell
Deceased. In Bonds and Notes 63-8-6. an horse 6-15, a Bed 2-10, Books 13, Cloaths 2-1-6,
Chest 1-3. Sum total 75-9-3. By Andrew Leeper, James Leeper, Hugh Donohy. Executed
October 2, 1757. Recorded November 17, 1757. [my abstract from a copy of the recorded
inventory]
23. Augusta County Deed Book 8, page 99. 21st March, 1759. William Bell to Samuel Bell, £40,
300 acres in Christian's Creek in Beverley Manor; corner Carr's land, point or end of a hill in Fork
of Long Meadow Run and Christian's Creek, supposed to be a corner in the patent line; corner
Geo. Roger; widow Baskin's line. [Chalkley's Chronicles, Volume 3, page 354.]
24. Augusta County Court Judgments, May and November, 1759 (A). Finla vs. Wm.
Bell.--Process not executed because defendant is a soldier in Captain Hog's fort. May, 1757.
[Chalkley's Chronicles, Volume 1, page 320.]
25. Augusta County Deed Book 10, page 139. 18th February, 1762. William Bell to Samuel
Morra, £5, 216 acres patented to John Bell, 1st December, 1740. John Bell died intestate the
property is invested in William Bell by hereditary right. On Jenning's Branch near North
Mountain; cor. Thomas Armstrong's land. [Chalkley's Chronicles, Volume 3, page 380.]
26. Augusta County Court Judgments, May, 1762 (A). William Bell vs. George
Willson.--Plaintiff ran a saw mill. [Chalkley's Chronicles, Volume 1, page 328.]
27. Augusta County Deed Book 11, page 133. 27th May, 1762. William Bell, David Bell and
Florence, his wife, to Samuel Logan, £30, 108 acres on Elk Run in Beverley Manor, cor. said
Logan's other land, Hamilton's line. Delivered: Samuel Logan, May, 1765. [Chalkley's
Chronicles, Volume 3, page 393.]
28. Augusta County Deed Book 11, page 101. 16th November, 1762. Charles Patrick and John
Patrick, division of estate of their father Robert. John is to have 283 acres conveyed to Robert by
Wm. and David Bell, also all the land lying on north side of South River in the tract whereon the
said Robert lately dwelt, and to have a waggon way over the ford of the river opposite a pond and
so up the river on the south side. Charles to have that on the north side, John to pay Charles £30.
Delivered: J. Patrick, February, 1767. [Chalkley's Chronicles, Volume 3, page 392.]
29. Augusta County Deed Book 11, page 208. 20th April, 1763. William Armstrong and Mary ()
to William Bell, £150, 242 acres, part of 485 acres in Beverley Manor on Christian's Creek
purchased by William Armstrong by deed, 18th February, 1747-8. Division line made for Joseph
Kinkead's land. Teste: Samuel Caldwell, Samuel Love. [Chalkley's Chronicles, Volume 3, page
396.]
30. Augusta County Court Judgements, August, 1764 (A). Dr. Sergt. Wm. Bell to Samuel
Cowdon & Co.--1761, April, May, July, August--Liquors and furnishings. [Chalkley's
Chronicles, Volume 1, page 335.]
31. Augusta County Will Book 3, page 354. Elizabeth Wallace's bond (with Wm. and Jas. Bell),
as administratrix of Samuel Wallace. 21st August, 1764. [Chalkley's Chronicles, Volume 3, page
86.]
32. Augusta County Marriage Licenses. 1765--January 15, William Bates, William Bell, Moses
McCown; January 24, Thomas McClung; February 18, William Mitchell; February 20, Robert
Gwin . . . . [Chalkley's Chronicles, Volume 2, page 277.]
33. Augusta County Deed Book 11, page 811. 19th March, 1765. William Bell and Rachel to
Samuel Craig, £15, two tracts: A, 30 acres, part of 400 whereon Bell now lives, on McClure's
Run, a branch of Middle River of Shanandore; B, 60 acres adjoining above, and between it and
Morris O'Friel's and Andrew Foster's lands. Delivered: Samuel Craig, 26th May, 1773.
[Chalkley's Chronicles, Volume 3, page 420.]
34. Augusta Parish Vestry Book, page 428. [Date not given] Processioners appointed, viz: Hugh
Crockett and Isaac Taylor, from head of Roanoke to Fort Lewis. Edward Carvin and Nathaniel
Evans, from Fort Lewis down on Waters of Roanoke. Thomas McFerran, James Moore, Jr.,
James Alcorn, Wm. Rolands, on waters of Cuttawba and James River on South Side.... William
McFeeters, Jr., George Berry, James Sawyers, Jr., William Bell, Jr., from Burden's line to the
Road that goes from Staunton to Jenning's Gap on the North Side of Kennady's Road.
[Chalkley's Chronicles, Volume 2, page 454.]
35. Augusta County Order Book No. IX, April 15, 1765, pages 334-337. Court of Claims and
Grievances. Robert Bratton, claim for provisions for militia. James Kenaday, sergeant, for self
and others, ranging. John Dunlop, provisions. John Dicksin, provisions. James Ewing,
provisions. Hugh Fulton, provisions. Saml. McCutcheon, provisions. . . . James Bell, provisions.
Wm. Bell, provisions. Wm. McCutcheon, provisions and horse impressed.... [Chalkley's
Chronicles, Volume 1, page 120.]
36. Augusta County Deed Book 13, page 99. 28th October, 1766. John and Wm. Long, of
Chester County, Pennsylvania, to William Long, Sr., of Augusta County, £10, 400 acres, part of
800 acres in Beverley Manor on Long Meadow, a branch of Middle River; corner tract now
Andrew McClure's; corner James Alexander's part of this said tract. Teste: James and Wm. Bell,
John and Wm. Long. Delivered: Samuel Long, 29th May, 1783. [Chalkley's Chronicles, Volume
3, page 446.]
37. Augusta County Court Judgements, November, 1766 (D). Hinds vs. William Bell.--Writ,
25th October, 1765. Defendant lives at Col. Chiswell's Mines--not executed--the defendant is at
the mines. Wm. McC. [Chalkley's Chronicles, Volume 1, page 351.]
38. Augusta County Deed Book 13, page 426. 29th July, 1767. Charles Patrick and Mary, of
Albemarle, to John Patrick. Whereas Robert Patrick by will, 10th August, 1761, devised to sons
Charles and John 720 acres and Charles and John agreed to divide said land by deed of partition,
16th November, 1762, and recorded in Augusta, viz, John to have tract 283 acres formerly
conveyed to Robert by Wm. and David Bell, 20th August, 1754, and to Wm. and David by
Samuel Gay, 21st February, 1747; also the land on North of South River whereon said Robert
lately dwelt, &c., &c., £200, all the land on south side of the river above. [Chalkley's Chronicles,
Volume 3, page 456.]
39. Augusta County Deed Book 14, page 214. 9th December, 1767. William Bell and Rachel to
Rev. Charles Cummins, £120, 164 acres, part of 400 acres patented to James Bell, deceased,
father of said William, on a branch of Middle River of Shanando near the North Mountain,
Samuel Craig's corner. Teste: Samuel Craig, James Bell, Henry Cresswell, James Bell. Delivered:
Cumings, December, 1768. [Chalkley's Chronicles, Volume 3, page 464.]
40. Augusta Parish Vestry Book, page 442. Processioned by Wm. Bell, George Berry, Wm.
McPheeters, James Syers, 1768-7, viz: For John McCleerey, for Thos. Kirkpatrick, for James
Peerey, for Saml. McNab, for Mathew Wilson, for Alex. McKinney. for David Stewart, for
Robert McKittrick, for John Kirk, for Wm. Crawford, for Rob. Wallace, for Rob. Philips, for
James Bell, Sr., for Charles Cummins. . . . [Chalkley's Chronicles, Volume 2, page 456.]
41. Augusta County Deed Book 15, page 183. 21st May, 1768. James ( ) Peerie and Katharine to
Thomas Scot, £5, 220 acres, corner former survey of Thomas Peerie, John Campbell's line,
William McNabb's line, corner John Lynn. Teste: John Handly, Patrick Buchanan, William Bell.
Delivered: Thomas Scott, 30th December, 1773. [Chalkley's Chronicles, Volume 3, page 477.]
42. Augusta County Deed Book 15, page 302. 1st March, 1769. William Magill and Jean ( ) to
Charles Philips, £122. 400 acres on a branch of Cathey's River, called Buffalo Lick Branch,
granted William by deed from William and James Bell, 18th March, 1760, patented to James
Bell, 1st December, 1740, and bequeathed said William and James by James's will. Teste: John
Young Robert Clendinen. William Hogshead. Delivered: John Philips, July, 1774. [Chalkley's
Chronicles, Volume 3, page 481.]
43. Orange County Order Book 8, 25 August 1769, page ___. At a court continued and held for
Orange County on Fryday the 25th day of August 1769. Present: Francis Moore, Wm. Bell,
Rowland Thomas, James Walker, Zach. Burnley, Thomas Bell, Wm. Moore, Andrew Shepherd,
Gent. The court proceeded.... [Pamunkey Neighbors of Orange County, Virginia, by Ruth
Trickey Sparacio and Sam Sparacio, page 29.]
44. Augusta County Will Book 4, page 250. 17th October, 1769. John Young's bond (with John
Handley, William and James Bell) as guardian (appointed) to James Young, orphan of James
Young. [Chalkley's Chronicles, Volume 3, page 111.]
45. Augusta County Deed Book 22, pages 444 & 445. 23 November 1770. Reverend Charles Cummins and Mille his wife of Washington County to Robert Cummins of Augusta, ?300, 164 acres in Augusta County, part of a tract of 400 acres first granted to James Bell Dece'd father to William Bell, of whom Charles purchased it; on a branch of the Middle river of Shanandore near the North Mountain; several corners "on the Pattent Line"; corner "near Samuel Craigs corner." Lease and release. [signed] Charles Cummings. Witnesses: John Finley, William Mcpheetors, Robert Trumble, John Mcpheetors, Ben Brown. Recorded 16 March 1779. [my abstract from a copy of the recorded deeds]
46. Augusta County Will Book 4, page 443. 21st August, 1771. Samuel Craig's bond (with
William and James Bell) as guardian to John Black, orphan of Anthony Black. [Chalkley's
Chronicles, Volume 3 page 120.]
47. Orange County Marriage Licenses. 1772, Oct 29--Francis Madison to Susanna Bell, dau. of
Wm. Bell of Orange. Francis Madison was brother to the President. [Virginia Marriage Records
(1982), by Elizabeth Retty Bentley, page 463.]
48. Augusta County Order Book No. XV, March 20, 1773, page 39. Hemp certificate: William
Bell--South River. [Chalkley's Chronicles, Volume 1, page 171.]
49. Augusta County Order Book No. XV, November 17, 1773, page 234. Alexr. Long, qualified
Captain; Francis Long, qualified Lieutenant; William Bell, Ensign [Chalkley's Chronicles,
Volume 1, page 176. ]
50. Augusta County Order Book 15, November 17, 1773, page 235. William Bell a Witness
from Orange County made Oath that he has attended two days as a Witness for James Dever at
the Suite of the derwoods Administrators. Ordered that he pay him for the Same fifty pounds of
Tobacco and for Coming and Returning Sixty Eight Miles Once According to Law. [my
transcription from a microfilm copy of the order book]
51. Orange County Will Book 2, page 478. Will of Roger Bell of St. Thomas's Parish in Orange.
Weak in body but in perfect mind and memory. My Negro girl named Dinah who is helpless and
void of sense, whichever of my children hereafter mentioned shall take her and find her plenty in
bread shall have a Negro woman named Janey for their Charge, not to be accounted in the other
part of my estate. To my wellbeloved granddaughter Lucy Wisdom, £3 current money to be
raised out of my estate before divided, to receive at the age of eighteen. To my wellbeloved
granddaughter Frankey Wisdom, £3 current money to be raised out of my estate before divided,
to receive at the age of eighteen. To my wellbeloved son Thomas Bell, the land whereon I live,
purchased of Thomas Cook and Thomas More, to him and his heirs forever, thirty feet square
excepted for a burying place; the said Thomas Bell to allow £8 out of his part of the remainder of
my estate to be among the rest of my children. All my other land to be sold to the highest bidder
for money, and after my lawful debts are paid, the said money and my Negroes and all my other
estate to be equally divided among wellbeloved children and their [heirs], namely John Bell,
William Bell, Joseph Bell, Henry Bell, Thomas Bell, Betty Leek, Mary Brockman, Ursula
Bowling, Ann Linney. Executors: my sons Joseph Bell and Henry Bell. Executed December 3,
1773. [signed] Roger Bell. Witnesses: James Atkins, Thomas Oak, Thomas Burrus. Probated
August 28, 1774. Securities with executor Joseph Bell: Vivion Daniel, William Pollock; bond for
£2000. [my abstract from a copy of the recorded will; see my note above regarding "my
abstracts"]
52. Augusta County Deed Book 21, page 192. 17th August, 1774. Charles Philips to John
Crawford, on Buffelo Lick Branch, a branch of Cathey's River, part of tract patented to James
Bell. deceased, 1st December, 1740, and devised to William and James Bell by will of James
Bell. Delivered: Hugh Brown, August, 1779. [Chalkley's Chronicles, Volume 3, page 544.]
53. Augusta County Will Book 5, page 448. 29th August, ____. (Recorded, 19th November,
1776.) Thomas Armstrong's estate appraised by James Kirk, William and James Bell.
[Chalkley's Chronicles, Volume 3, page 145.]
54. Orange County Will Book 3, page 25. Will of William Bell of Orange County. To my son
John Miller Bell, the tract of land in Spotsylvania County which I purchased of Hancock Taylor,
also Negroes Symon, Frank, Fanny, Aggie and her child Mary. To my daughter Elizabeth
Shepherd, Negroes now in her possession Humphrey, Daphney, Jenny, Agie, and Governour.
To my daughter Polly Winslow, Negroes now in her possession Harry, Phillis, Frank, and Sivina
[?], also let [?] now in my possession. To my daughter Susannah Madison, Negroes now in her
possession Judah, Cupid, and Delf, also Sam now in my possession. To my daughter Sally,
Negroes Bob, Flora, Wan, Glocester, and Charlot. But if my said daughter Sally dies before
marriage, then the above Negroes shall be equally divided among all my other surviving children,
or their heirs. To my son Henry Bell, the tract of land I purchased of Capt. John Stockdell. But if
my said son Henry dies leaving no heir, or before he arrives at the age of twenty-one years, then
the said tract of land shall be sold and the money equally divided among all my surviving
children, or their heirs. To my son William Bell, six lots of land with the improvements in the
town of Fairfax in Culpeper County. But if my son William dies leaving no heir, before he
arrives at the age of twenty-one years, then the said lots shall be sold and the money equally
divided among all my surviving children, or their heirs. To my son Thomas Bell, the tract of land
whereon I now live containing 200 acres. To my said son Thomas, one lease of land which I hold
of John Baylor, during the continuance of said lease. But if my said son Thomas dies without
any heir, or before he arrives at the age of twenty-one years, then the above tract of land and
lease shall be disposed of after the death of my wife and the money equally divided among all my
surviving children, or their heirs. To all my daughters or their heirs equally to be divided among
them after sale being made thereof, the tract of land in this County which I bought of Capt.
Edward Watkins. To my brother John, the tract of land whereon he now lives, for his use and
benefit during his life, and after his death to be sold and the money equally divided among all my
daughters, or their heirs. To my sister Mary Wright, £50 current money, or one Negro of that
value. To my sister Susanah Rowe, £50 or one Negro of that value. To the children of my sister
Milley Cave £50 to be equally divided among them. To all my children or their heirs to be
equally divided among them, all the Negroes that I may have a right to from my brother John's
dying without leaving an heir. To all my children and their heirs to be equally divided among
them, one Negro man named Aaron now in possession of John Bledsoe after his and my sister
Elizabeth his wife's deaths, provided she leaves no heir. To my daughter Kitty Bell, one Negro
girl named Murriar, over and above her right hereafter mentioned, and in case of her death before
marriage, the said Negro and her increase shall be equally divided among all my surviving
daughters or their heirs. To my granddaughter Polly Shepherd, one Negro girl named Rillon [or
Killon], and in case she should died before marriage, then the said Negro with her increase shall
be equally divided among the surviving grandchildren of my daughter Elizabeth. To Henry
Gibson son of [John crossed out here] George Gibsons, £50 provided he continues to live in my
family until he arrives at the age of twenty-one. To my beloved wife during her widowhood, the
remaining part of my estate, the paying to all my younger children vzt. Henry, Peggie, William,
Kitty & Thomas in equal proportion in slaves and household furniture, as I have heretofore given
to my other children whenever they marry or arrive to the age of twenty-one. And in case my
wife should now be pregnant, such child shall be provided for in the same manner as my younger
children, by my said wife after her decease. All the remaining part of my estate that may be left
by her after the above divisions to be equally divided among all my children, or their heirs. In
case any of my daughters not already married should die and leave no heir, then the Negroes and
every other part of my estate left to them as above should be equally divided among my
surviving children, or their heirs at the decease of her husband (provided she should be so
situated). Executors: my wife, son John Bell, Francis Madison, Andrew Shepherd. Executed
July 9, 1776. [signed] William Bell. Witnesses: John Wingate, Jonathan Taylor, James Gains Jr.,
John Stockdell Jr. Codicil: To my son James Miller Bell, the tract of land in Spotsylvania
County purchased of Hancock Taylor, left by the foregoing will to my son John Miller Bell, to
whom I have already given a sufficiency in place thereof. To my son James Miller Bell, his part
of what is left to my wife after death along with my other children, as specified in my foregoing
will. Additional executor: my son-in-law Alexander Dawney. Executed June 9, 1778. [signed]
William Bell. Witnesses: Yowell Boston, Archd. Campbell, Joseph Wood Jr. Codicil: In place
of the Negroes named Frank, Agie, and her children Mary with their increase, left to my son John
Miller Bell, I leave to him the following Negroes: Betty, her two children Daingerfield and Jenny,
one Negro named Venus bought of Mr. Dixons estate and one Negro named Glocester. To my
daughter Susanah Madison, one Negro named Harry now in her possession. In place of the
Negroes Flora and Glocester given to my daughter Salley Dawney, I leave one Negro named
Mary that she may have from this time. As to the lots of land in Fairfax Town left to my son
William, in case there should not be a proper title obtained to him for them, I desire that he be
allowed out of the residum of my estate, before any division be made, a sufficient sum equal to
what would have been paid for the purchase of said lots, unless he should die before marriage or
before he arrives at the age of twenty-one in that case to as before specified. In place of my
debarring the husbands of any of my daughters from the benefit of such of my estate as is above
or hereafter left to them (I mean of their not having or leaving any heir), it is my desire that the
husband of such daughter have the same right and title as if she had or left any heir. It is my will
that one Negro named Sam hired to my brother John Bell be disposed of, and the money to be
equally divided among all my children or their heirs. It is my will that all the Negroes that I may
have a right to after my said brother's decease as will appear from a conditional deed of gift which
I gave him recorded in the clerk's office of Caroline shall be likewise disposed of and the produce
thereof equally divided as last mentioned. It is my will that one Negro named Lucy lent to my
sister Susanah Rowe, shall be after my sister's death sold, and the money equally divided among
all my children or their heirs. Executed: November 24, 1780. [signed] William Bell. Witnesses:
Chas. Bruce, Chas. Taylor, Joseph Wood Jr. Probated December 28, 1780; will proved by oaths
of John Stockdell Jr. and James Gains Jr.; first codicil proved by oaths of Yuell Boston,
Archabald Campbell and Joseph Wood Jr.; second codicil proved by oaths of Charles Bruce,
Charles Taylor, and Joseph Wood Jr. Certificate for probate granted to Francis Madison,
Andrew Shephered, and Alexander Dawney, executors; bond for £50,000 with securities James
Newman, John Alcock, and James Taylor. Ordered that John Bell heir at law be summond. to
contest the will if he thinks proper. [my abstract from a copy of the recorded will and codicils;
see my note above regarding "my abstracts"]
55. Augusta County Deed Book 23, page 79. 25 April 1777. Charles Phillips of Augusta County to Alexander Simpson of the same place, ?250, 300 acres in Augusta County, on a branch of Catheys River called Buffalow lick Branch, part of land granted to sd. Charles Phillips by William Magill by deed of lease and release dated Feb. 28 and Mar. 1, 1769, and being the land granted to sd. William Magill by William and James Bell of the sd. County by deed of lease and release dated Mar. 17 & 18, 1760, and being granted to James Bell of ye. said County Deceased by a patent dated Dec. 1, 1740, and bequeathed unto ye. afforsaid William & James Bell by the last will and testament of the said James Bell Deceased; corner at the division line of said land that was sold by Charles Phillips to John Crawford. [signed] Charles Phillips. Witnesses: Hugh Brown, William Bell, John Phillip, John Scott. Recorded 17 August 1779. [marginal note: "Examined & Delivered to Wm. Clendenen Octr. 1779"] [my abstract from a copy of the recorded deed]
56. Augusta County Will Book 6, page 18. 29th March, 1778. Morris O'Friel's will, farmer--To
wife, Catherine, executrix; to son, Daniel; to daughter, Mary; to son, Jeremiah; to daughter,
Eleanor; to grandson, Joseph, 160 acres between William and James Bell; to grandsons, Morris
and John Martin, infants, 400 acres, tract in Forks of James; to John O'Friel, survey on McClure's
Run. Teste: Walter Trimble, Robert Wallace, Robt. Rennick. Proved, 21st April, 1778, by
Trimble, and 19th May, 1778, by the witnesses. Executrix qualifies. [Chalkley's Chronicles,
Volume 3, pages 150-151.]
57. Augusta County Deed Book 22, page 465. 17 March 1779. William Bell and Mary his wife
of Augusta County to William Richards of Orange County, £1150, 242 acres more or less, being
part of a tract of 485 acres in Augusta County on both sides of Christians Creek in Beverly
Manor being made over to William Armstrong by John Davison by deeds of lease and release
dated February 17 and 18, 1747 and recorded in Augusta County, and made over to William Bell
by William Armstrong by deeds of lease and release dated April 19 and 20, 1763 and recorded in
Augusta County. Part bounded by Abraham Line [?] and Phillip Drake and on the SW by a
division line of Joseph Hinkead [?] now in possession of William Richards and on the east by
Walter Davises and on the west by John Abney. All houses buildings orchards gardens, etc.
Lease and release. [signed] William Bell. Mary Bell (her X mark). [No witnesses] Recorded
March 16, 1779. [my abstract from a copy of the recorded deed]
58. Augusta County Will Book 6, page 119. 20th March, 1779. David Bell's will--To wife,
Florence; to sons, William, John, James. David; to sons, William and David, the home plantation
adjoining Jno. Patterson; to sons, John and James, lands in Kean Tucky, the head of Cow
Pasture, Jackson's River, and South Branch; to daughter, Susannah; to daughter, Elizabeth.
Executors, wife, and brother Joseph Bell. Teste: James Anderson, Wm. Christian, Wm.
Anderson, Samuel Anderson. Proved, 21st March, 1780, by James Anderson and Christian.
Executors qualify. [Chalkley's Chronicles, Volume 3, page 156.]
59. Augusta County Court Judgements, May, 1779 (M). William Bell vs. Samuel Craig (son of
James).--Debt. Writ, June, 1773. [Chalkley's Chronicles, Volume 1, page 372.]
60. Augusta County Circuit Court Causes Ended. Jno. Crawford vs. Wm. Bell--O. S. 304; N. S.
108--Involves land devised by David Bell in 1779 in Augusta. Answer by John and David Bell in
Fayette County, Ky., sons of David. [Chalkley's Chronicles, Volume 2, page 224.]
61. Augusta County Court Fee Books, 1779. Page 2, Francis Gardner, infant; page 18, John
Miller, near Staunton; page 39, Elizabeth Fleming, infant; page 61, John Ramsey, Pastures; John
Allison, B. Land; Page 76, James Kerr, B. Smith; page 85, Dr. John Connerly, Bad; ... page 134,
William Hacker, T. Valley; page 135, Robert Carrol, taylor; John Ramsey, South River; Will.
Bell, North Mountain; page 139, John Bell, South River; page 140, Alex. Kirk, O. Cert. your
services as a soldier; page 141, Wm. Fleming, Staunton; Mary Dunwoody, infant; page 143,
William Campbell, North River. [Chalkley's Chronicles, Volume 2, pages 409-410.]
62. Augusta County Will Book 6, page 128. 29th September, 1779. Catrine Freel's estate
appraised by Samuel Craig, James and Wm. Bell. [Chalkley's Chronicles, Volume 3, page 157.]
63. Augusta County Tithables, 1781; William McPheeters's List: Capt. James Bell, Samuel Bell,
Sampson Sawyers, Jeremiah Freel, Jno. Young, Geo. Rhimor, Thomas Brown, Nicholas Leek,
Francis Garner, Sr., James Hamilton, Jacob Bailor, Wm. Bell, Wm. Hanley, James Peerey, David
Jackson, Wm. McCutchan . . . James Trotter, Sr., Jno. Sharp, Wm. Shields, Sr., Wm. Scott,
Coonrod Slusher, Jacob Nightover, Robert Wallace, Wm. Bell, Jno. Brown, James Cunningham,
Samuel Haws, Frederick Fisher, Benj. Finley, Robert Commings, Elizabeth Stuart, Wm.
Hamilton, Frances Haywood, Wm. McClintock, Jno. Hanley, Michael Coulter, Jno. Trimble, Jno.
Summers, Ulrick Fulwader, Isaac Mines, Jacob Fulwader, James Conningham, Geo. Jameson . . .
Martha Downey, Wm. Shields, Jr., Robert Clark, James Phillips, Jno. Brown, James
Cunningham, Samuel Haws, Robert Wallace, Wm. Bell, Martin Dickson, James Elliott . . . .
[Chalkley's Chronicles, Volume 2, page 430.]
64. Orange County Will Book 3, page 31. Inventory of estate of William Bell Decd. Negro
fellow Sam £3000, ditto Wench Lucy £6000, ditto Girl Sally £3000, ditto Boy Jacob £2000, ditto
Boy Aaron £1000. Total £15000. By Richard Buckner, Peyton Stern, Dd. Stern. Recorded June
24, 1781. [my abstract from a copy of the recorded inventory]
65. Augusta County Order Book No. XVII, August 22, 1781, page 350. Wm. Bell is appointed
to buy one wagon and team in the place of Samuel Hunter. [Chalkley's Chronicles, Volume 1,
page 221.]
66. Augusta County Will Book 6, page 203. 30th October. 1781, Francis Gardner. Sr.'s, will--To
wife, Esther; to grandson, Francis Gardner; to grandson, Samuel Gardner. Executors, William
and James Bell. Teste: Sampson Sawyers. Wm. Sterrett. Wm. Burgess. Proved, 19th December,
1781, by Sterrett. Executors qualify. [Chalkley's Chronicles, Volume 3, page 160.]
67. Augusta County Court Fee Books, 1783. Page 1, Soldiers' wives, (May), Margaret Wilson,
Sarah Buchanan, (October), Mary Price; page 1, Pensioners, (April), James Cunningham, John
McKinney; (May), Margaret Wilson, John Yeager; Wm. Francis, John Dickinson; Jos. Maze,
Benj. Blackburn; (October), James Cunningham; page 4, William Downey, infant; ... page 68,
Isaac Zane, Iron Man; page 69, John Moffett, B. Smith; page 74, William Bell, North Mountain;
page 75, Felty Cook, G. B.; page 77, Dennis Lannaghan and Margaret, his wife, late Margaret
Craven; page 87, Joseph Keaburn, Roanoke; page 89, John Miller, parson's son.... [Chalkley's
Chronicles, Volume 2, pages 410-411.]
68. Augusta County Will Book 6, page 482. 21st November, 1783. James Sawyers' estate
appraised by William Bell, Benj. Brown, Wm. Starit. [Chalkley's Chronicles, Volume 3, page
170.]
69. Augusta County Deed Book 24, page 403. 16th November, 1784. Janet and Rachel Wallace,
of Washington County, to Benjamin Brown. Teste: Wm. Bell. [Chalkley's Chronicles, Volume 3,
page 572.]
70. Augusta County Deed Book 25, page 77. 8th March, 1785. David Bells land whereon he
lived. Division of by order of Court, with plat, according to his will--to William Bell, 240 acres;
to David Bell, 174 acres; widow's dower assigned; field called Wetsal's. [Chalkley's Chronicles,
Volume 3, page 573.]
71. Augusta County Marriages Licenses. 1785, September 28, George Elliott and Florence Bell;
surety, Wm. Bell. [Chalkley's Chronicles, Volume 2, page 280.]
72. Augusta County Marriages Licenses. 1785 December 27, Alex. McKinney and Mary
McClure, daughter of Andrew McClure; surety, Wm. Bell; witnesses, Alexander Stewart, Josias
McClure. [Chalkley's Chronicles, Volume 2, page 282.]
73. Orange County Minute Book, 13 February 1786. At a court held for Orange County on
Monday 13th of Feby 1786.... Present: James Madison, William Bell, Thomas Bell, Thomas
Barbour, Johnny Scott, Catlett Conway and Andrew Shepherd, Gent.... [Pamunkey Neighbors
of Orange County, Virginia, by Ruth Trickey Sparacio and Sam Sparacio, page 29.]
74. Orange County Marriages, page 18. 23 February 1786. William Bell and Elizabeth Cave
Johnson, widow, dau. of Benjamin Cave. William Bell a widower. Wit. Ben Johnson and
Thomas Barbour. [Marriages of Orange County, Virginia, 1747-1810; Catherine L. Knorr; page
8.]
75. Augusta County Order Book No. XIX, March 23, 1786, page 324. William Bell, eldest son
and heir-at-law of David Bell, deceased, and Florence and Joseph Bell, executors of said David,
versus John Francis. Bill dismissed. [Chalkley's Chronicles, Volume 1, page 245.]
76. Orange County Minute Book, 24 March 1786, page 352. Mary Alcock is appointed guardian
to Thos. Bell and James Miller Bell, orphans of William Bell, dec'd, whereupon she with John
and Abner Porter, her securities, entered into & acknowledged their bond for the same in the sum
of £2000 c. money. [Pamunkey Neighbors of Orange County, Virginia, by Ruth Trickey
Sparacio and Sam Sparacio, page 135.]
77. Orange County Minute Book, 24 March 1786, page 352. Mary Alcock, late wife of Wm.
Bell, dec'd, took the oath of an executrix and entered into bond for the same with Hubbard
Taylor, her security, in the sum of £400 current money. [Pamunkey Neighbors of Orange
County, Virginia, by Ruth Trickey Sparacio and Sam Sparacio, page 135.]
78. Orange County Minute Book 2, 20 April 1786, page 361. Alexander Dawney is appointed
guardian to Thos. Bell and James M. Bell, orphans of Wm. Bell, dec'd, in the room of Mary
Alcock, who declines acting. Whereupon he with Benja. Winslow & Francis Madison, his
security, entered into bond for the same in the sum of £2000 C.M. [Pamunkey Neighbors of
Orange County, Virginia, by Ruth Trickey Sparacio and Sam Sparacio, page 135.]
79. Orange County Minute Book 2, 20 April 1786, page 361. William Bell, orphan of Wm. Bell,
dec'd, came into court and chose Alexander Dawney, guardian. Whereupon he with Benja.
Winslow and Francis Madison, his securities, entered into bond for the same in the sum of £1000
C.M. [Pamunkey Neighbors of Orange County, Virginia, by Ruth Trickey Sparacio and Sam
Sparacio, page 135.]
80. Orange County Will Book 3, page 159. [Affidavit] Culpeper County to wit. In Obedience to
an Order of the worshipful Court of Orange County we the Subscribers accordingly met To lay
of the dower of Mary Bell now Alcock of her late husbands lands in this County but on being
forbid viewing The same by Alexander Dawney Guardian to William Bell son of William Bell
deceased & by By [sic] John M Bell Son to the aforesaid deceased we declined having any thing
now to do in the Business. Given under our hands this twenty Second day of August 1786-
[signed] Edward Stevens, Edward Watkins, Birhett Davenport. At a Court held for Orange
County on Thursday the 28th Decemr. 1786. The within being returned into Court is Ordered to
be Recorded. Teste. James Taylor. C.O.C. [my transcription from a copy of the recorded
affidavit]
81. Augusta County Marriages Licenses. 1786 October 21, Andrew Walker and Elizabeth
McKinney. daughter of Alex. McKinney; witness, Alex. McKinney. Andrew is son of John
Walker. Witnesses, William Walker, Arthur Graham, Wm. Bell. [Chalkley's Chronicles, Volume
2, page 285.]
82. Orange County Will Book 3, page 158. Assignment of dower of Mary Bell, now Mary
Alcock. All that part of the tract of land commonly called the court house tract lying on the
southwest side of the main road; corner to Andrew Shepherd; corner of Erasmus Taylor; to front
door of Shepherd store house; John Baylor's line. Also the two northeast rooms below stairs and
the two rooms above them upstairs of the mansion house of Wm. Bell decd. with the yard on
both sides of the said mansion house in a direct line with the partition between the said rooms
laid off for the dower of the said Mary and the other part of the house including the kitchen and
dairy, and forty feet at northeast end of the said yard into the road for the purpose of carrying
wood &c. to the kitchen. Also the free use of the spring. Also, all that part of a lease of
land held by the said decedant at his death from John Baylor of Caroline and adjoining the land
of Erasmus Taylor; said Baylor's line; Spencer's line; line of Erasmus Taylor; Joseph Wood's line.
Executed November 15, 1786, by Wm. Moore, James Taylor, Thos. Bell, Ben. Porter. Recorded
December 28, 1786. [my abstract from a copy of the recorded assignment of dower; see my note
above regarding "my abstracts"]
83. Orange County Deed Book 8, pages 51-55. 16 December 1786. John Brooke, Gent., and Lucy his wife of Essex County and William Thornton, Gent., of King George County, to William Bell and Thomas Barbour both of Orange County, ?1100, two tracts in Orange County adjoining at one corner, containing together 2495 acres. One tract granted by two patents to George Braxton and by him devised to Carter Braxton, conveyed by Carter Braxton to William Brooke the younger of Essex County by deed dated 13 October 1760; on both sides of swift Run containing 1805 acres; corner John Goodall; corner Elijah Ballard; corner Martin Johnson; William Bells and James Earleys corner in the patent line. The other parcel lying on deep step [?] Run containing 690 acres; formerly the property of Robert Sanford, conveyed by him to the said John Brooke; the Asahel [?] Road; corners Mathew Creed; the Chapel Road. [signed] John Brooke, Lucy Brooke, Will: Thornton. Witnesses: John Henshaw, John Henshaw of Culpeper, Edmund Henshaw, John Henshaw Junr. Didimus by James Taylor, Orange County court clerk, dated 20 December 1786, directing Waller Jones and John Gordon to examine Lucy Brooke who "Cannot Conveniently Travel to Our Said County Court." Statement signed by Wall: Jones and Jno. Gordon, dated 13 February 1787 at "Northumberland," that they examined Lucy Brooke "at the Dwelling home of Presly Thornton of this County." Statement signed by John Brooke and Will Thornton, dated 16 December 1786, stating that they had received ?1100 from "the Within Mentioned Bell and Barbour." Recorded 22 February 1787. [my abstract from a copy of the recorded deed; since Thomas Barbour was a witness on my William Bell's marriage bond (see item 74 above), the William Bell in this deed is probably my William]
84. Augusta County Deed Book 25, page 432. 26th February, 1787. John Lewis, of Warm
Springs, to White, Kirk & Co., merchants at said Springs, mortgage of chattels, £38. Teste: Wm.
Bell, Wm. Garrard, John Cowardine. [Chalkley's Chronicles, Volume 3, page 579.]
85. Augusta County Will Book 8, page 29. 5th April, 1787. James Bell's will, Sr., of South
River--To son, Joseph, home tract, 300 acres, bounded by James Long, Jno. Bell, also an
adjoining tract called Trimble's survey; to daughter, Sarah Bell, to be paid by his sons, John and
Joseph; to son, John; to daughter, Agness Gamble; son, James Bell; son, Wm. Bell; son, Thomas
Bell; son, Samuel Bell, and grandson, Robert Love; to sons, John and Joseph, and daughter.
Sarah. Executors, sons John, Thomas, Joseph Bell, Walter Davis. Teste: David and Samuel Long,
Gabriel Alexander. Proved, October Court, 1792, by all witnesses. John Bell refuses to qualify or
to join in the probate. Other executors qualify. [Chalkley's Chronicles, Volume 3, page 199.]
86. Augusta County Order Book No. XX, April 18, 1787, page 254. Militia officers
recommended: Captains, William Shields, Robert Doak; Lieutenants. Wm. Bell, John Gamble,
James Mitchell; Ensigns, Wm. Bell, Jr., Alexr. Reed, James McCune, David Williams, Wm.
Brownlee, Wm. Henderson. [Chalkley's Chronicles, Volume 1, page 249.]
87. Orange County Deed Book 19, page 135. 23 April 1787. William Bell Gent. and Elizabeth his wife and Thomas Barbour Gent. and Mary his wife, of Orange County, to Isaac Davis of Orange County, ?360, 200 acres in Orange County being part of a large tract formerly belonging to John Brooke of Essex County; Robert Golding line; Williams road. Witnesses William Pannill, Abrose [?] Barbour, Thomas Barbour. Proved 24 April 1787. [my abstract from a copy of the recorded deed]
88. Augusta County Order Book No. XX, June 19, 1787, page 341. William Bell qualified
Lieutenant, and William Bell Ensign. [Chalkley's Chronicles, Volume 1, page 250.]
89. Augusta County Court Judgments, August, 1787 (A to D). William Bell and Samuel Bell vs.
Daniel O'Friel and Jas. Cunningham.-- Spa. Ch., 12th June, 1780. In November, 1779, Orator
William Bell was employed by James Sayers to purchase beef and pork for the barracks in
Albemarle. Plaintiffs and defendants were partners and bill is for accounting and settlement. The
winter of 1779 was the worst ever known. William Bell and Cunningham were relatives. James C.
had a son, Johnny. William Bell was brother of James Bell. Depositions of Thomas Hill and
Elizabeth Hill, his wife, 26th August, 1780. James Sawyers was Commissary for Albemarle
Barracks. His wife was Hannah. Her deposition, 19th October, 1784. [Chalkley's Chronicles,
Volume 1, page 386-387.]
90. Augusta County Marriages Licenses. 1787 August 30, George West and James Lyle, Jr.,
surety. George West and Mary Woodrum. Own consent. Teste: Joseph Bell, Wm. Bell, Jr.
[Chalkley's Chronicles, Volume 2, page 307.]
91. Augusta County Deed Book 26, page 108. Teste: James Cunningham,
William Sterrett, James and Wm.Bell. [Chalkley's Chronicles, Volume 3, page 582 (this is the entire item from Chalkley's; the rest of the document is not abstracted there)]
92. Augusta County Deed Book 26, page 123. 16th April, 1788. John Keenon to William Bell.
Teste: Hugh Keenon, Samuel Bell. [Chalkley's Chronicles, Volume 3, page 582.]
93. Augusta County Will Book 7, page 422. 28th April, 1788. James Allen's will (Sr.),
farmer--To children of daughter, Rachel Thomson, 5 shillings each; to daughter, Margaret Bell, 5
shillings; to daughter, Agnes Shields, 6 shillings to son, William Bell, 5 shillings; to daughter,
Rebecca McClure, 5 shillings; to daughter, Elizabeth McNair, 5 shillings; to daughter, Mary
Allen, 5 shillings; to son, Francis Allen, £50; to son, James, home plantation. Executors, wife
Mary, son-in-law David McNaire, son James. Teste: Wm. Wilson, James Allen, John Hartsook,
Wm. Baker. Codicil, 24th March, 1789. Teste: Wm. Wilson, John Hartsook, Wm. Baker. Proved,
18th October, 1791, by Hartsook and Baker. [Chalkley's Chronicles, Volume 3, page 196.]
94. Augusta County Order Book No. XX, November 22, 1788, page 654. William Bell
recommended Captain of First Regiment. John Crawford recommended Lieutenant of First
Regiment. [Chalkley's Chronicles, Volume 1, page 255.]
95. Augusta County Fee Books. 1788 Page 13, George Kinkead, Greenbrier; Page 14, John
Ware, Goochland; Page 14, Frances Hamilton, infant; page 18, William Blair, B. T.; page 20,
Samuel McChesney, Rockbridge; page 21, John Brown, North Mountain; page 29, James
Wallace, Albemarle; page 31, John Brown, merchant; ... page 83, Andrew Lewis, Botetourt; page
84, George Divers, Albemarle; Samuel Archibald, Richmond; page 85, William Bell, North
Mountain; page 86, Alex. Stuart, Rockbridge; James Heron, Richmond City; page 87, John
Deardoff, Pennsylvania; Joseph Moore, Rockbridge; page 88, Dr. William Gross; page 91, John
Montgomery, Pastures; page 93, Doctor James McChesney. [Chalkley's Chronicles, Volume ]
page 412.
96. Augusta County Deed Book 27, page 190. 21st April, 1789. Wm. Killpatrick and Jennet to
Reuben George, tract on the last branch of Bullpasture called Harper's Run. Teste Joseph Bell,
Wm. Bell, Jr., Isabella Burnes. [Chalkley's Chronicles, Volume 3, page 593.]
97. Four William BELLs were included on the personal-property tax list for Augusta County in 1790:
98. Augusta County Marriages Licenses. 1790 February 17, William Bell and Peggy Allen,
daughter of James Allen (consent); surety, James Allen; witnesses, David Hanna, James Allen, Jr.
[Chalkley's Chronicles, Volume 2, page 286.]
99. Augusta County Marriages. William Bell married Margaret Allen, 27 February 1790. [from
response to request for look-up in Augusta County Marriages, 1748-1850, by John Vogt & T.
William Kethley]
100. Augusta County Order Book No. XXI, July?, 1790, page 284. Mary Teas, executrix of Wm.
Teas, required to give counter security on motion of William Bell, heir-at-law of David Bell,
security for Mary. [Chalkley's Chronicles, Volume 1, page 262.]
101. Augusta County Marriage Licenses. 1791 March 26, John Smith and Margaret Stuart (an
orphan). John is son of Wm. Smith (consent). Witnesses, Saml. Hardin, Saml. Gamble,
Certificate by Wm. and Hannah Bell that they are willing to the marriage. Witness, Alex.
Gamble; surety, Saml. Harding. [Chalkley's Chronicles, Volume 2, page 299.]
102. Augusta County Order Book No. XXI, July 19, 1791, page 489. Commissioners to view a
road passing thro' the lands of Joseph Bell, now in the possession of his son, William.
[Chalkley's Chronicles, Volume 1, page 266.]
103. Augusta County Deed Book 27, page 266. 20th December, 1791. Joseph Bell and Elizabeth
to their son, William. [Chalkley's Chronicles, Volume 3, page 594.]
104. Augusta County Order Book No. XXII, November 24, 1792, pages 207-209. Florence
Elliott, late Florence Bell, executrix of David Bell, deceased, and George Elliott, who intermarried
with Florence, and William Bell, heir-at-law of said David. [Chalkley's Chronicles, Volume 1,
page 270.]
105. Augusta County Court Judgements, November, 1792. John Mills, heir-at-law of Robert
Mills (John was a nephew of Robert) vs. Joseph and Florence Bell and William Bell. [Chalkley's
Chronicles, Volume 1, page 397.]
106. Augusta County Marriage Licenses. 1793 February 20, Alex. Crawford and Phillip Dyer,
surety. Alex. Crawford and Rachel Lessley. Consent by Wm. Bell. Affidavit of Rachel's full age.
[Chalkley's Chronicles, Volume 2, page 309.]
107. Augusta County Order Book No. XXII, March 25, 1793, page 258. Thomas Turk, Jr., James
Frazer, James Crawford, John Erwin and William Bell as Captains in 1st
Battalion--recommended. [Chalkley's Chronicles, Volume 1, page 272.]
108. Augusta County Order Book No. XXII, March 25, 1793, page 258. Benj. Kennerly,
Andrew Fulton, David Henderson, Thos. Waddle, Wm. Bell, Jr., Ensigns in 1st
Battalion--recommended. [Chalkley's Chronicles, Volume 1, page 272.]
109. Augusta County Order Book No. XXII, July 16, 1793, page 305. William Bell qualified
deputy surveyor. John Crawford qualified Lieutenant, see pages 258-9; Wm. Bell, Jr., qualified
Ensign, see pages 258-9. [Chalkley's Chronicles, Volume 1, page 274.]
110. Augusta County Marriage Licenses. 1794 September 24, Robert Brooks and Wm. Bell,
surety. Robert Brooks and Grizey Evans. Affidavit by Robert that Grizey is above 21.
[Chalkley's Chronicles, Volume 2, page 309.]
111. Augusta County Will Book 8, page 195. 14th February, 1795. James Bell's will--To wife,
Martha; to sons, James and William, tract purchased of James Trimble on Middle River; to
Frances Bell; to son, Robert; to sons, John and Samuel Bell, home plantation; to eldest daughter,
Agnes, 1,000 acres in Kentucky; to daughter, Rachel, 1,000 acres in Kentucky; to son, Robert,
500 acres in Kentucky; to son, Francis, 1,000 acres in Kentucky; to daughter, Mary An, 1,000
acres in Kentucky. Executors, wife Martha, brother William Bell, brother John Kirk. Teste:
William Sterrett, Francis Gardiner, Jas. Brown. Proved, October Court, 1795, by the witnesses.
Widow qualifies. [Chalkley's Chronicles, Volume 3, page 208.]
112. Fredericksburg, Virginia, District Court, Case #CI-CR-DC-L-1795-390-41. Case & al. vs.
Cave & al. Virginia. In the high Court of Chancery March the 7, 1795. between Richard Cave,
John Cave, William Strother and Anne his wife, William Bell and Elizabeth his wife, plts; and
Belfield Cave executor of David Cave, Benjamin Cave junr. Benjamin Cave, Uriel Mallory and
Hannah his wife, Alexander K. Guthry, Valentine Johnson, John Taylor and William Cave
devisees of the said David Cave deceased- On the motion of the plaintiffs by their counsil, the
court doth direct an issue to be made up between the parties and tried before the District Court of
Fredericksburg to determine whether the writing dated the fourth day of August one thousand
seven hundred and ninety two, purporting to be the last will and testament of David Cave
deceased and admitted to record in the County Court of Culpeper as such be the true last will and
testament of the said David Cave, and the Verdict thereupon to be certified to this Court. A copy
Teste Peter Tinsley CHCC [my transcription from a copy of the order]
113. Orange County Marriages, page 38. 21 December 1795. William Bell and Rhoda Atkins, dau.
of John and Susannah Atkins, who consent. Sur. Roger Bell. Wit. James Taylor Jr. Married 24
December by Rev. Nathaniel Sanders. [Marriages of Orange County, Virginia, 1747-1810;
Catherine L. Knorr; page 8.]
114. Augusta County Record of Marriages Beginning 15th March, 1785. 1796, February 2d--By
Rev. Wm. Wilson: John Rap and Elizabeth Ailor; February 19th, David Bell and Mary Christian;
March 3d Jacob Vanlear and Nancy Hall; March 3d, John Gibson and Catherine Cloverfield;
March 3d, Wm. Bell and Mary Crawford; March 25th, Adam Patterson and Sophia Jones; April
7th, Geo. Bambarger and Elizabeth Baker; April 27th, James Bell and Sarah Allen; May 4th, Wm.
Wilson and Anne Gibson; May 26th, James Runkle and Frances Sherley; June 9th Jacob Shetz
and Eliz. Blackam (burn); June 16th, John Burgess and Jane Erwin; June 16th, Hugh Campbell
and Margaret Erwin; June 26th, Benj. Kerr and Elizabeth Myers. [Chalkley's Chronicles, Volume
2, page 355.]
115. Augusta County Marriage Licenses. 1796 March 1, Wm. Bell and Alex. St. Clair, surety.
Wm. Bell and Mary Crawford (of age), daughter of James Crawford, deceased. [Chalkley's
Chronicles, Volume 2, page 316.]
116. Orange County Deed Book 21, page 167. 27 February 1797. William Bell and Elizabeth
his wife of Orange County to William Golding, £100, approx. 287 acres in Orange County; corner
with Capt. James Early; corner with Jackson; corner with Capt. Isaac Davis. Witnesses John Wright, William Estes, Valentine Johnson, Peter Harris. Recorded 27 Feb.
1797. [my abstract from a copy of the recorded deed]
117. Augusta County Court Judgements, August, 1797 (A to M). William Bell vs. John
Fleiger.--15th June, 1796, writ. Received of David Hanna and William Bell, 4 beeves at £14, for
the use of the Augusta County militia, now ordered in the service. (Signed) John Flieger,
Commissary. September 28, 1794. Same for use of Augusta Cavalry, now ordered into the
service. September 28, 1794. [Chalkley's Chronicles, Volume 1, page 411.]
118. Albemarle County, Virginia, "(Old) Deeds for Further Proof," Library of Virginia reel number 111. 29 January 1798. William Bell and Elizabeth his wife of Orange County to Jonathan Goodall of Orange County, £95, 112? acres in Albemarle County; Michal Catterton's line; William Davis line. Witnesses John Wright, John Bell, Thomas Roberts. Proved June 1798. [my abstract from a microfilm copy of the original signed deed; presumably not recorded in the deed books because Elizabeth did not sign]
119. Augusta County Record of Marriages Beginning 15th March, 1785. 1798, January 8th--By
Rev. Wm. Wilson: Ruben Shackelford and Rebecah Johnston; January 12th, William Palmer and
Jenny Chestnut; January 18th, John Boys and Anne St. Clair; January 19th, Robert Reed and
Isabella Walker; February 3d, George Groff and Polly Shore (Share?); February 27th, William
Bell and Margaret Allen; March 11th, John Alexander and Junet (Jennet?) Alexander; March
20th, Robert Porter and Elizabeth Blair; March 22d, Alex. Walker and Magdaline Harner; March
27th, Daniel Sheets and Elizabeth Whitemore; April 6th, Abraham Selling and Priscilla Jones;
April 29th, Ezekiel Cooper and Mary King . . . . [Chalkley's Chronicles, Volume 2, page 350.]
120. Augusta County Circuit Court Causes Ended No. 3, April, 1802 (A to C). Wm. Bell vs.
Armstrong--From Rockbridge. Power attorney by Polly McFadden to Robert Armstrong to
collect from John McFadden, of Cumberland County, Penna., that portion of estate left her by
her father's will, James McFadden, 9th March, 1799, Elizabeth Pinkerton swears in Rockbridge
that her daughter, Polly McFadden, is the right heir to the estate of her first husband, James
McFadden, and that no other heirs are alive. 9th March, 1799. [Chalkley's Chronicles, Volume 2,
page 45.]
121. Augusta County Court Judgements, May, 1799 (H to P). James Kerr and Robert Kenny vs.
John McCune and William Bell.--Debt. Writ, 7th November, 1796. The estate of James Lessley,
Jr., deceased, debtor, in 1777. To one year's boarding at school. To one year's schooling of one
scholar. To nocalating the same scholar. This scholar was Betsy Lessly. She was a daughter of
James. Elizabeth McCune deposes, 1799--her son John. Hat for Polly Lessley. [Chalkley's
Chronicles, Volume 1, page 413.]
122. Augusta County Marriage Licenses. 1799 June 25, John Jones and Michael Garber, Jr.,
surety. John Jones and Elizabeth Smith, daughter of Thos. Smith, deceased, and Elizabeth, his
wife (consent). Teste: Wm. Bell, Jr. [Chalkley's Chronicles, Volume 2, page 333.]
123. Augusta County Court Judgments, September, 1799 (A to O). Robert Cummins vs.
William Bell--Trespass. Writ, 30th May, 1798. John and Jane Cummins, summoned as
witnesses, 21st August, 1799. Verdict for plaintiff. Depositions of John Elliott, James
Cunningham, Francis Bell, Samuel Bell, Nephew of William Bell, Sr. Jane Cummins, daughter
of Robert Cummins, says, 30th April, 1799, that it is about 23 or 24 years since her father came to
this place to live. [Chalkley's Chronicles, Volume 2, page 22.]
124. Augusta County Marriage Licenses. 1799 September 17, Wm. Bell and Alex. Crawford,
surety. Wm. Bell (widower) and Rachel Crawford, widow of Wm. Crawford. Approbation of
Jane Crawford. [Chalkley's Chronicles, Volume 2, page 331.]
125. Four William BELLs were included on the personal-property tax list for Augusta County in 1800:
126. Augusta County Marriage Licenses. 1800. February 3, William Sterritt and Wm. Bell,
surety. William Sterritt and Nancy Bell, daughter of James Bell, deceased, and sister of Wm. Bell,
and of age. [Chalkley's Chronicles, Volume 2, page 344.]
127. Orange County Will Book 3, page 512. Will of William Bell of Orange County. Estate to
be appraised and to be kept together this year. To wife Elizabeth during her widowhood, 300
acres of the tract whereon I live, and also one-third part of my personal estate. After her death or
marriage to be sold to the highest bidder. The balance of my estate to be sold to the highest
bidder after the expiration of the present year. "My Reason for directing it so to be disposed of is
that every party Interest may stand upon an equal footing in purchasing any part of my Estate
thus directed to be sold that may suit either the one or the other of them." That my still stand in
the situation it now does for the mutual use, benefit, and convenience of my said wife during her
widowhood and my son John Bell. That my wife also should have the benefit and use of the
blacksmith's tools so far as to have her work done. To my son-in-law William Golding, a tract of
land joining the land whereon he lives and the lands of Isaac Davis and James Early, supposed to
contain about 40 acres; the same is hereby excepted out of the residue of my estate hereinbefore
directed to be sold to the highest bidder. Executors: my son John Bell and my son-in-law
William Golding. [signed] Wm. Bell. Witnesses: Edmd. Thushaw [?], Johnson Watts, John Hay.
Executed Feb. 17, 1800. Probated Apr. 8, 1800. [my abstract from a copy of the recorded will;
see my note above regarding "my abstracts"]
128. Augusta County Guardians' Bonds. 24th February, 1800--Wm. Bell, guardian of George,
orphan of James Crawford. [Chalkley's Chronicles, Volume 2, page 387.]
129. Augusta County Court Judgements, March, 1800 (H to Z). John Kirk. Daniel O'Friel and
John Elliott vs. James Bell's heirs.--In 1784 plaintiffs and defendants, with Samuel Bell entered
into partnership to buy land in Kentucky. Robert Henderson was agent. Bill for a division.
Answer by Martha, William, John, Agnes and Rachel Bell, relict and heirs of James Bell, to the
bill of complaint exhibited against them, and Robert Bell, Francis, Samuel, Mary Ann Bell,
infants. 14,237 acres were located in James Bell's name in Fleming County, on Triplett's Creek, of
which O'Friel gets 1,100 acres, John Kirk gets 500 acres, James Bell gets 4,506 acres, John Elliott
gets 800 acres. Daniel Phreel. [Chalkley's Chronicles, Volume 1, page 415-416.]
130. Orange County Will Book 3, page 537. Inventory and appraisement of the estate of
William Bell deceased. Various animals and other farming items, household items, etc. Slaves:
Phill a negro man, Jacob ditto, Lewis ditto, Jack ditto, Jeffery ditto, Moses ditto, James ditto,
Charles ditto, Dinah a Woman, Lucy ditto, Rosey ditto, Jamima ditto, Syrus a Boy, Abram ditto,
Aaron ditto, Benjamin ditto, Betty a Girl. Recorded July 8, 1800. [my abstract from a copy of
the recorded document]
131. Augusta County Administrators' Bonds. 27th July, 1801 William Bell, administrator of
Martha Bell. [Chalkley's Chronicles, Volume 2, page 392.]
132. Augusta County Administrators' Bonds. 26th October, 1801 William Bell, administrator
of Robt. Bell. [Chalkley's Chronicles, Volume 2, page 392.]
133. Orange County Will Book 4, page 73. Will of Elizabeth Bell of Orange County. All estate
to my son Valentine Johnson. Executor: my son Valentine Johnson. Signed Elizabeth Bell.
Witnesses: W. White, James Cave, R. Barbour. Executed Feb. 3, 1803. Probated Feb. 23, 1803.
Security for executor: Belfield Cave. [my abstract from a microfilm copy of the will book;
included here because the testator is apparently the Elizabeth CAVE JOHNSON who married
William Bell on Feb. 23, 1786]
134. Orange County Marriages, page 61. 16 November 1803. William Bell and Fanny Boston,
dau. of Reubin Boston, who is surety. William, son of John Bell, who makes oath that William
is over 21. Married by Rev. William Calhoun. [Marriages of Orange County, Virginia,
1747-1810; Catherine L. Knorr; page 8.]
135. Caroline County Will Book __, page __ (transcription by Mrs. E.E. Evans; part of Library
of Virginia accession #20407: "Personal Papers, Bell Family Records and Notes: Caroline and
Orange Counties, Virginia, 1932"). Will of John Bell. Low and weak but of sound mind and
disposing memory. To my niece Suckey Rowe (widow), two tracts of land in Caroline County,
one called Summers' containing 128 acres which I purchased of John Griffin the elder, the other
called Sanders' which was given to me by my mother, containing 100 acres during her natural life
and at her death to be equally divided among her present children. Also to my niece Suckey
Rowe, nine Negroes Phebe, Hensley, Mary, Sylvia, Edmund, Jacob, Bellem, Joe, Winny during
her natural life, at her death to be equally divided among her present children; but if all the said
children die without lawful issue, then the two tracts of land and Negroes to be equally divided
among the surviving legatees, the children of the deceased legatees to share the part of their decd.
parent. To my nephew James Wright, three Negroes Peter, Spencer, and Jane, during his natural
life, and at his death to be equally divided among his lawful issue if any, and if none, then to deed
[sic] in the same manner as the estate devised to Suckey Rowe. To my nephew Robert Wright,
six Negroes Ben, Celia, Julius, Delphy, Sampson, and little Jenny, to him and his heirs forever;
but if he die without lawful issue, then the said Negroes to be equally divided among the
surviving legatees and their lawful issue, the children of the deceased legatees to share the part of
their deceased parent. To my nephew Harry Wright, my tract of land in Caroline County on
Morocosick Creek which I purchased of his late father Robert Wright deceased, containing 235
acres, also my blacksmith Davy with all my blacksmith's tools, my Negro fellow Andrew, Tom,
Seivie, Letty, Inno, and Old Suckam to him and his heirs forever; but if he should die without
lawful issue, then the said land and Negroes to pass in the same manner as those devised to
Robert Wright. To my niece Frances Hall, wife of John Hall, four Negroes Fanny, Randal, Judah
and Lucy to her and her lawful issue forever; but should she die without lawful issue, then to
pass in the same manner as those devised to Robert Wright. To my niece Elizabeth Jones, wife
of Robert Jones, three Negroes Sally, James, and Milly, during her natural life and at her death to
be equally divided among her lawful issue if any, if none then to go to Harry Wright to him and
his heirs forever; but should he die without lawful issue, then to pass in the same manner as those
devised to Robert Wright. To my niece Nelly Wright, four Negroes Caroline, Charlotte, Reuben,
and Evelina to her and her heirs forever; but should she die without lawful issue, then to pass in
the same manner as that devised to Robert Wright. To my niece Fanny Smith, wife of Samuel
Smith, two Negroes Charles and Betty to her and her heirs forever; but should she die without
lawful issue, then to pass in the same manner as that devised to Robert Wright. To my niece
Suckey Rowe, her choice of 12 head of cattle out of my stock, two horses Dolphin and Damon,
two sows and 13 shoats, two feather beds and furniture and £150 cash out of the monies arising
from the sale of crops, stocks and c [sic] to her and her heirs forever. That all my estate both real
and personal be kept together until the crop is finished, then all my crop of corn wheat and
tobacco now on hand together with the crop now growing also my stock of every kind, not
heretofore disposed of my household and kitchen furniture and plantation utensils, &c be sold on
such credit as my executors may deem most advantageous and the money together with all my
outstanding debts after satisfying the legacy of £150 to Suckey Rowe applied to the payment of
my debts and the surplus if any to be equally divided among Henry Wright, James Wright,
Robert Wright, Nelly Wright, Elizebeth Jones, Frances Hall, and Fanny Smith. Executors: my
two friends Harry Wright and Robert Wright. Executed March 10, 1804. John Bell. Witnesses:
George Alsop, David Tinsley, William Tinsley. Codicil: To my niece Susannah Rowe (widow),
for the natural love and affection I bear to her, a blue painted book case which I purchased at the
sale of her deceased husband Reuben Rowe, 80 barrels of Indian corn, 1200 pounds of pork, 50
feet of top fodder, 1000 pounds of blade fodder for her own use, also six pounds cash to be laid
out at her descretion in necessary clothing for her two daughters Polley and Betsy Rowe.
Executors: Henry Wright and Robert Wright. Executed October 28, 1804. John Bell. Witnesses:
George Alsop, John Fletcher, Harry Wright, Robert Wright, James Wright. Probated December
11, 1804. [my abstract of the transcription made by Mrs. E.E. Evans (see my note above
regarding "my abstracts"); included here because the testator is apparently the John Bell of
Caroline who was mentioned in the will of William Bell (d. 1780), item #54 above, as a brother of
that William]
136. Augusta County Administrators' Bonds. 24th June, 1805--Catherine Rinehart, Robt. Harris,
administrators of Henry Rinehart; John Moore, administrator, c. t. a., of Henry Huff; Wm. Bell,
administrator of Francis Bell. [Chalkley's Chronicles, Volume 2, page 393.]
137. Orange County Will Book 4, page 170. Will of John Bell of Orange County. Wife
Elizabeth Bell. Three youngest children: Mary S. Bell, Ann J. Bell, John Francis Bell. Son
William Bell. Daughters Elizabeth F.P. Powell, Francis K. Leavell. Executors: My friends
Major John Daniel, Charles Howard, Saint Clair Kirtley, and my son-in-law Lewis Leavell, and
my son William Bell. Executed October 15, 1805. Probated December 23, 1805. Securities for
executors: Valentine Johnson, Achilles Douglas. [my abstract from a microfilm copy of the will
book]
138. Augusta County Circuit Court Causes Ended. Crawford vs. Kenney--O. S. 115; N. S.
39--Bill, 27th December, 1805. Orator, John Crawford. In 1751 Morris Offriel entered 200 acres in
Augusta adjoining William Davis's survey. Morris did not complete his title and another survey
was made by Daniel Offriel, son and heir-at-law of Morris, on 100 acres of the tract, on which in
1785 James Bell also made an entry. Chesley and Jacob Kenney, brothers, are in possession.
James Bell died and devised the land to his sons, John and Samuel Bell, who conveyed to C.
Kinney, who conveyed to Jacob. William Bell, aged 68 years, deposes 16th July, 1808, he has
lived 60 years and upwards adjoining the land, being two years old when his father settled where
deponent lives. John Elliott, aged 60 years upwards, the lower road on the plat was built 20 or 25
years after the affiant knew the upper road laid down by said defendants, to have been in use.
The last was the old road and had been long used before the other was cut or opened. Maj.
Samuel Bell, aged 48 or 49, deposes 2d April, 1808; has lived all his life in the neighborhood of
the land in controversy on the near Buffalo Gap; there was a beautiful piece of pine timber on it.
Samuel's father has been dead six or seven years and was about 70 years old. Samuel's
grandfather and defendant's (Bell's) grandfather were brothers. Francis Gardner, aged 46 years,
deposes, 1808; he was born and lived (except 2 or 3 years of childhood) in the neighborhood; his
father was Thomas Gardner, who owned lands adjoining. Thomas was killed by Indians when
Francis was very young. Francis Bell, aged 38, deposes, 23d January, 1808, that he has lived all
his life near the land in controversy; son of James Bell, who has been dead more than 5 years.
Robert Wallace deposes that he was well acquainted with Morris Offriel and Daniel Offriel.
Daniel was cousin of deponent. Agnes Offriel deposes, 14th November, 1808, that she is widow
of Daniel. They lived within two miles of the land from the time they were married upwards of
thirty years ago, till the death of her husband ten years ago. William Bell, Jr., deposes 12th
March, 1808; son of James and brother to John and Samuel. William is now in 40th year.
[Chalkley's Chronicles, Volume 2, pages 113-114.]
139. Augusta County Will Book 11, page 140. 18th June, 1806. Rebekah Sawyers' will--To
nephew, Alex. Crawford; to niece. Nancy Tolman (for to school her children); to niece, Mary
Armstrong (for to school her children); to David Sawyers; to niece, Nancy Crawford (to school
her children). To niece, Jean Crawford; to Rebecca, daughter of Alex. Crawford; to Polly,
daughter to Alex. Crawford; to Rebecca Ann Tolman. Executor, friend, Alex. Crawford. Teste:
Francis Gardner, Wm. Bell, Ann Gardner. Proved, 28th September, 1807. [Chalkley's
Chronicles, Volume 3, page 230.]
140. Augusta County Will Book 11, page 53. 12th June, 1807. James Willson's will--To sons,
William and Joseph; son, George; daughters, Joanna Hogshead, Mary Erwin, Peggy Trimble;
daughter, Olive McFaul. Executors, son Joseph and son-in-law Jas Hogshead. Teste: Wm. Bell,
Samuel Jackson, John Jackson. Proved, 23d September, 1811. Executors qualify. [Chalkley's
Chronicles, Volume 3, page 238.]
141. Augusta County Will Book 11, page 125. 17th April, 1807. Receipt of heirs of James Bell to
John Bell, administrator, viz: William Bell and wife Mary; Samuel Bell and wife Jane; Israel
Patterson and wife Rachel. [Chalkley's Chronicles, Volume 3, page 230.]
142. Augusta County Circuit Court Causes Ended. Bell vs. Bell--O. S. 110; N. S. 38--Bill, 25th
August, 1807. Orator, William Bell, owned tract in Augusta adjoining tract of James and Samuel
Bell, between whom a dispute arose. James is dead and land has descended to heir-at-law,
Francis Bell. Answer dated 16th March, 1808, states: James Bell, father of William, made an
entry for 400 acres. Samuel Bell is now 49 years of age. Andrew Foster settled on the land
upwards of 60 years ago. A certain William Bell was uncle of defendants. [Chalkley's
Chronicles, Volume 2, page 112.]
143. Augusta County Circuit Court Causes Ended. Bell vs. Bell--O. S. 195; N. S. 69--Bill, 1813.
Settlement of estate of James Bell, of Augusta, who died testate, leaving widow, six sons and
three daughters, of whom Robert, Francis and Samuel were miners. Robert was a student.
Widow, Martha, was executrix and died leaving complainant, William Bell, her executor. Robert
is also dead, and said William administered. Francis Bell has also died. James Bell, son of James,
is also dead. [Chalkley's Chronicles, Volume 2, page 160.]
144. Augusta County Circuit Court Causes Ended. Bell vs. Anderson--O. S. 210; N. S. 74 -- Bill
24th August, 1813. On 17th March, 1778, David Bell made an entry in Augusta for 400 acres
adjoining his own and Hall's and Moffett's lands. David died intestate in 1780 as to this land, and
William Bell, his heir-at-law, became entitled, who had the survey made and conveyed to orator,
James Bell. On 12th June, 1772, William Antlerson located 100 acres adjoining. At David Bell's
death, William Bell was a minor. Robert Anderson, son of William, sold to Detrick. Answer by
Alexander Anderson, son of William; answer by Isaac and Enos Jones. [Chalkley's Chronicles,
Volume 2, pages 166-167.]
145. Augusta County Circuit Court Causes Ended. Wanless vs. Bell--O. S. 273; N. S. 96--Bill
endorsed "Wanless vs. Blake," filed 11th July, 1815, by Stephen Wanless, who made entry in
Bath adjoining his other land, but did not perfect it, and his neighbor, James Blake, forestalled
him as to 100 acres. They both belonged to the same Church and submitted the controversy to
the decision of two of their clergymen, viz: William Ward and Phillip Kennerly. Blake sold the
portion awarded him to Joseph Brown, who has sold to James Bourland, and he to William Bell,
and Bell to Clementia (tius) Swearingen. Blake and Brown live out of Commonwealth. Patent,
5th June, 1807, to James Bleake, 100 acres in Bath County on Stuarts Creek. Answer, 8th March,
1816, by Joseph Brown of Knox County, Ohio. [Chalkley's Chronicles, Volume 2, page 207.]
146. Orange County Deed Book 26, page 259. 28 September 1815. Elizabeth Bell of Orange
County to William Bell of Orange County, $1045, 104? acres in Orange County, part of the
tract whereon the said William now lives; corner at the mouth of John Daniel deceased's lane;
corner to Edmund Henshaw; corner to John Daniel estate; another corner of John Daniel's.
Witnesses Rueben Boston, Mark Wright, Peggy Doar [?], Rueben Boston Jr., Jno. C. Harris. Recorded 31 October 1815. [my abstract from a copy of the recorded deed]
147. Augusta County Circuit Court Causes Ended. Bill in Vint Vs. Erwin--in 1793 William
Bought Land in Pendleton from William Bell, Then of Augusta, now of near Richmond.
William Bell claimed as devisee of David Bell. Patent to Edward Erwin, 1783. Edward Erwin's
will, dated 23rd January, 1813, proved in Augusta, 26th February, 1816. Son Benjamin land Benj.
lives on; son Andrew's heirs; son John's heirs; son James' (if he quits drunkenness); son William;
daughter Mary, daughter Jane, daughter Margaret; wife and small children; daughter Betsey.
Affidavit 18th November, 1813, that James & John Bell are residents of Kentucky. [Chalkley's
Chronicles, Volume 2, pages 53-54.]
148. Augusta County Circuit Court Causes Ended. Crawford vs. Crawford--O. S. 385; N. S. 141--Bill, 1821, by Wm Bell and Margaret Crawford, executors of James Crawford, who died in Augusta, testate. Will dated 1798, leaving six children--four sons and two daughters--and one daughter was born after his death. His son George died unmarried and infant. William died unmarried. Sarah married Charles McClung; Elizabeth married Samuel McClung; Polly, the posthumous daughter, married John Allen, Sarah and Polly are both dead. In January, 1819, John Crawford married oratrix Margaret, who is daughter of William Bell, orator. John's mother, Mary, lived a time with her daughter Elizabeth in Greenbrier. John died 24th February, testate, but will has not been proved. [Chalkley's Chronicles, Volume 2, page 259.]
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