John Wood (d 1808) and Sarah --- of Marion Co, SC

John Wood was born sometime in the mid to early 1700's. I can't narrow it down any better than that. He was born before 1774, probably well before, somewhere ca 1750 or earlier.

I don't know who John Wood's parents were. I have no clues at all, nor any clues to any possible siblings.

There are some early deed records (1771 and later in the 1770's) showing a John Woods and wife "Cattron" (Catherine) in the area. I am not totally sure, but it seems likely that this is the same people. When John made his Will in 1808, his wife was named "Sarah", so that seems to show he was married twice, assuming the John from the 1770's is the same person. I am somewhat concerned that they might be different people, considering John and Cattron Woods lived in the Buckswamp area (present Marion - Dillon border area), whereas John and Sarah Wood lived in what is now Legette Township, though that isn't really that far apart.

John Wood married Catherine --- sometime before ca 1771, presumably in the present day Marion County area. I have not narrowed her birth down any better than Johns, so I suspect she was born ca 1760 or earlier. This is just an educated guess though. I have not yet found any evidence pointing towards Catherine's maiden name. Keep in mind also that "Cattron" and husband John "Woods" may not be the same people I'm interested in.

On 4 Dec 1771, John Woods was granted 100 acres on the North side of Buck Swamp. This fact was stated in a deed dated 4 Apr 1772 when he and wife "Cattron" sold the same land to William Kerby. Fortunately, this deed was recorded very late and in Marion County. It was witnessed by James Glading, William Cone and Matthew Coleson. John and Cattron were listed as residents of "Craven Co, SC", which technically had ceased to exist in 1769, the area then (in 1771-1772) being Georgetown District. (Marion Co, SC Deed Book F, page 119, from "Marion County South Carolina Abstracts of Deeds Volume Two Books F-I & K 1811-1823", by Lucille Utley, and Alita White Sutcliffe, 1997)

"John Wood" was listed on the 1778 Jury list for jurors in Prince George Parish (entire list online at Horry County Historical Society web pages)

John Wood was not listed on the 1786 tax list in Prince George Parish, so he probably owned no land at that time, or he was just not included, or his section of the list was lost.

Assuming that John Woods and wife Cattron were the same people under study here, then sometime in this general timeframe (ca 1790), Catherine must have died, and John married Sarah B. ---. She was born ca 1749 (per her being 88 years old when she died in 1837) I don't know what her maiden name might have been. (For my general family layout on this family, I'm leaving Sarah as the only wife of John Wood, pending some evidence that she was not his only wife, and that John Woods (with wife Cattron) was the same John).

John Wood was listed on the 1790 census in Georgetown District, in Prince George Parish. He was the only Wood in that Parish. There was another John Wood in All Saints Parish (present Horry County) and a William Wood in Prince Frederick Parish (which could either be several present counties). This census was alphabetical, so I can't tell who John's neighbors were, nor where he was living. This census showed John Wood with one slave.

There were three John Wood listings in 1800, two simply as "John", and one as "John G. Wood". All three Johns seem to be too young to be our John Wood. All three were enumerated in the age 26-44 category, or born ca 1755/74. Our John might fit here if born ca 1755 or 1756 or thereabouts. I can't say if any of these is our John or not.

On 16 Jun 1803 John Wood Senr and son Jesse Wood, witnessed a deed from Zachariah and Margaret Foxworth to David Legett (John's son-in-law), for land on Gum Swamp. (Marion Co, SC Deed Book B, page 228, from "Marion County South Carolina Abstracts of Deeds Volume One Books A - E 1800-1811", by Lucille Utley, and Alita White Sutcliffe, 1996)

On 29 Jul 1803 "John Wood's" stock mark was recorded, as a slit in the left Ear (this is a registration of how he marked his livestock). Presumably this is John Sr, though it does not say so. (Marion Co, SC Deed Book B, page 240, from "Marion County South Carolina Abstracts of Deeds Volume One Books A - E 1800-1811", by Lucille Utley, and Alita White Sutcliffe, 1996)

On 4 Mar 1805 John Wood witnessed a deed from George Ford to David Legett (John's son-in-law). (Marion Co, SC Deed Book C, page 88, from "Marion County South Carolina Abstracts of Deeds Volume One Books A - E 1800-1811", by Lucille Utley, and Alita White Sutcliffe, 1996)

On 18 Mar 1806 John Wood of Marion District, sold 100 acres to his son Jesse Wood. The land was on the west side of Catfish Marsh. Witnesses were David Legett (son-in-law), Jesse Legett (son-in-law) and Rebecca Legett (daughter). (Marion Co, SC Deed Book D, page 14, from "Marion County South Carolina Abstracts of Deeds Volume One Books A - E 1800-1811", by Lucille Utley, and Alita White Sutcliffe, 1996)

On 16 Oct 1807 James Legett sold John Wood Sr 145 acres for $400. The land was on the North East side of Great Pee Dee River in Brittons Neck, and on the Southwest side of Gileses Bay. Witnesses were Henry C. Legett and Jesse Wood (John's son). (Marion Co, SC Deed Book D, page 26, from "Marion County South Carolina Abstracts of Deeds Volume One Books A - E 1800-1811", by Lucille Utley, and Alita White Sutcliffe, 1996)

On 19 Mar 1808 John Wood Sr made his Will in Marion Dist, SC. He named his wife Sarah, daughter Anne James and her son Adin James. After the death of his wife, his property was to be equally divided between children John Wood, Sarah Chinners, Rebecca Legett, Martha Legett and Anne James. Son Jesse Wood was also mentioned. Executors were sons Jesse Wood and David Legett (actually a son-in-law). Witnesses were James Legette and James James and John Bath. His Will was proven on 20 Aug 1808, so he was dead by that date. (Probate Roll # 805, published in "Probate Records, Marion County, South Carolina Volume Two", by Lucille Utley, Danny Smith, 1985, page 123).

Widow Sarah Wood was not listed on the 1810 census in Marion Dist, SC, so I suspect she was with one of her children. I did not find son John Wood listed in 1810, nor son-in-law Jesse Legett, though both should have been.

Sarah Wood was listed as head of household on the 1820 census in Marion Dist, SC, living alone. This census was alphabetical so I can't tell who her neighbors were.

I have no record of Sarah on the 1830 census. She was probably living with a son or daughter.

Sarah B. --- Wood died on 17 Sep 1837 in Marion Dist, SC, and is buried at the Legette Cemetery in Marion Co, SC. Her marker says "Sarah B. Wood" died Sep 17 1837 age 88 years.

Children

John and Sarah (---) Wood had six children as proven by John's 1808 Will. None of the married daughters' husband's names were given in the Will, but I have figured them all out from other sources. If this is the same John Woods who was married to "Cattron" (in 1772), then probably all of the children except Ann were from the first marriage to Cattron (Catherine?), and Ann was from the marriage to Sarah. This is based only on her seeming to be much younger than the other children. However, for my records, I'm leaving Sarah as the only spouse, with "Cattron" as a possible first wife.

Sarah Wood was born ca 1755/65, presumably in Georgetown District, now Marion County, South Carolina. She was named in her father's Will of 1808 as his daughter "Sarah Chinners".

Sarah Wood was married to a Mr. Chinners, per her father's will of 1808. He did not include the given name of Sarah's husband though. However, other records show that Sarah Wood was married to Ezekiel Chinners, and they probably married prior to 1790.

Ezekiel Chinners was born before 1755, presumably in the present day Horry County, though then Georgetown District. I don't know who his parents were. Records show a "Chinners Swamp" in Horry County, and this is where they lived.

Ezekiel Chinners was the only "Chinners" listed in Georgetown District, SC in 1790 (in fact, he was the only Chinners in all of SC). This census was alphabetical, so I don't know who his neighbors were, or if in present Horry or Marion County (though I suspect Horry).

On 16 Oct 1792, Ezekiel and Sarah Chinners sold 100 acres to Aaron Cooper, on North side of Chinners Swamp. Witnessed by Joseph Cooper. (Horry Co, SC Deed Book A-1 page 164, transcribed on the Horry Co, SC Historical Society web pages)

Ezekiel Chinners was listed on the 1800 census in Georgetown District, Kingston County (present Horry County). His household seemed to contain a few "extra" people born before 1790, who were not home in 1790, so possibly not children, but other relatives, or boarders.

On 5 Oct 1802 Ezekiel Chinners and William McQueen witnessed two deeds from Commissioners to John Wilson for Lot # 18 (didn't say in what town). (Horry Co, SC Deed Book A-1 page 152 and 156, transcribed on the Horry Co, SC Historical Society web pages)

On 4 May 1804, Ezekiel Chinners recorded his "stock mark" (how he marked his livestock) in Horry court, as "Stockmark (used for 14 years) underbit in the right ear, 2 splits in the left, brand HC". (Horry Co, SC Deed Book A-1 page 198, transcribed on the Horry Co, SC Historical Society web pages)

On 19 Mar 1808 "Sarah Chinners" was named in the Will of her father John Wood Sr. (Probate Roll # 805, published in "Probate Records, Marion County, South Carolina Volume Two", by Lucille Utley, Danny Smith, 1985, page 123).

There is a deed dated 9 Feb 1809 where Hardy Harbert Chinners purchases land from John Dimery. At the end of the deed it says that Sarah Chinners paid Dimery, so this seems to suggest that she was associated with Hardy Harbert Chinners. Additional records on him show him to be of proper age to have been her son, so it seems a reasonable assumption. (Marion Co, SC Deed Book E, page 21, from "Marion County South Carolina Abstracts of Deeds Volume One Books A - E 1800-1811", by Lucille Utley, and Alita White Sutcliffe, 1996)

Ezekiel and Sarah Chinners apparently moved back to Marion County area sometime before 1810, for he was listed on the 1810 census in Marion District. He was on the same page with (but several house away from) widow Unity Wood, somehow connected to this family.

On 5 Oct 1814 Benjamin Dozier and wife Isabel, of Marion District, sold 280 acres to Sarah Chinners, planter, of Horry District. The deed was for $350, and the land on Gum Swamp and Jones Swamp, North East side of Great Pee Dee River, and West side of Catfish Creek. Witnesses were her brother Jesse Wood, and Stephen Burket. (Marion Co, SC Deed Book I, page 7, from "Marion County South Carolina Abstracts of Deeds Volume Two Books F-I & K 1811-1823", by Lucille Utley, and Alita White Sutcliffe, 1997)

Sometime between 1814 and 1820, the Chinners moved from Horry back to Marion, perhaps in 1814 after the purchase of the 280 acres.

On 3 Jul 1820, Ezekiel Chinners, Sarah Chinners and Hardy H. Chinners (their son, I think), all of Marion District, sold land to Silas White for $500, 280 acres "containing the plantation where we now live" on Gum Swamp, Jones Swamp. (This seems to be the same land deeded to Sarah on 5 Oct 1814, see above). Signed: Ezekiel Chinners, Sarah Chinners, Hardy H. Chinners. Witnesses were Edward Brown and Jesse Legett (Sarah's brother-in-law). (Marion Co, SC Deed Book I, page 288, from "Marion County South Carolina Abstracts of Deeds Volume Two Books F-I & K 1811-1823", by Lucille Utley, and Alita White Sutcliffe, 1997)

Ezekiel Chinners must have died about the same time this deed was made, for Sarah was listed as head of household on the 1820 census in Marion Dist, SC. Unfortunately, this one was alphabetical, so I can't tell who her neighbors were.

Sarah Wood Chinners died sometime between 1820 and 22 Oct 1821, for on that date, Jesse Legette (her brother-in-law) made suit for letters of administration for "Sarah Chinners alias Sarah Wood". Bondsmen were Jesse Legett, Jesse Wood (her brother) and David Godbold. No heirs were named, but among the purchasers were Sarah Wood (her mother), Rebecca Wood (don't know who this is) and Jesse Wood (brother). (Probate Roll # 141, published in "Probate Records, Marion County, South Carolina Volume One", by Lucille Utley, Danny Smith, 1985, page 115, 116).

Jesse Wood was born ca 1765/74, presumably in Georgetown District, now Marion County, South Carolina. He was named in his father's Will of 1808 as his son "Jesse Wood".

Jesse seems to have been at home with his father for the 1790 census, listed with him in the "16 and up" age group (born before 1774).

Jesse Wood married Nancy --- sometime between 1790 and 1800 in Georgetown Dist, SC (now Marion Co, SC). "Nancy" and "Ann" were used interchangeably in those days, so sometimes she is "Nancy", and sometimes "Ann". She was born ca 1765/74. I found a website on the Internet showing Nancy as a "Legette", but no documentation was included. This could be correct, as the Wood and Legett families were closely associated, and two of Jesse's sisters married Legettes. However, without documentation, I'll just leave her maiden name blank for the time being.

Jesse Wood was a Preacher of some sort, as noted on several of his records, however, I don't know what church or denomination.

Jesse Wood was listed on the 1800 census in Marion Dist, SC. He was listed between Lemuel Blunt and Thomas Wally.

On 16 Jun 1803 John Wood Senr (his father) and Jesse Wood, witnessed a deed from Zachariah and Margaret Foxworth to David Legett (John's son-in-law), for land on Gum Swamp. (Marion Co, SC Deed Book B, page 228, from "Marion County South Carolina Abstracts of Deeds Volume One Books A - E 1800-1811", by Lucille Utley, and Alita White Sutcliffe, 1996)

On 12 Nov 1804 Jesse Wood, "Preacher of the Gospel", sold 500 acres to James McRee, land on the West Side of Catfish Marsh. Witnesses were Samuel Thompson and Elizabeth Thompson. (Marion Co, SC Deed Book D, page 241, from "Marion County South Carolina Abstracts of Deeds Volume One Books A - E 1800-1811", by Lucille Utley, and Alita White Sutcliffe, 1996)

On 18 Mar 1806, John Wood (Jesse's father) sold Jesse Wood 100 acres, for $800, the land was on the West side of Catfish Marsh. Witnesses were David Legett (Jesse's brother-in-law), and Jesse Legett (brother-in-law) and Rebeca Legett (Jesse Wood's sister). (Marion Co, SC Deed Book D, page 14, from "Marion County South Carolina Abstracts of Deeds Volume One Books A - E 1800-1811", by Lucille Utley, and Alita White Sutcliffe, 1996)

On 16 Oct 1807 Jesse Wood (and Henry C. Legett) witnessed a deed from James Legett to John Wood Sr (Jesse's father) . (Marion Co, SC Deed Book D, page 26, from "Marion County South Carolina Abstracts of Deeds Volume One Books A - E 1800-1811", by Lucille Utley, and Alita White Sutcliffe, 1996)

On 19 Mar 1808 Jesse Wood was named in the Will of his father John Wood Sr as "Son" and also as Executor to the Will. (Probate Roll # 805, published in "Probate Records, Marion County, South Carolina Volume Two", by Lucille Utley, Danny Smith, 1985, page 123).

Jesse Wood was listed on the 1810 census in Marion Dist, SC. He was listed between John Powers Sr and Archibald Powers.

On 7 Apr 1814 Jesse Wood and wife Nancy Wood sold 100 acres to Thomas James for $1.00. (Pretty cheap!). The land was described as part of a grant to Jesse Wood dated 4 Mar 1805. Witnesses were Willis Conner and Igdaliah Wood (Jesse's son). (Marion Co, SC Deed Book F, page 238, from "Marion County South Carolina Abstracts of Deeds Volume Two Books F-I & K 1811-1823", by Lucille Utley, and Alita White Sutcliffe, 1997)

On 5 Oct 1814, Jesse Wood (and Stephen Burket) witnessed a deed from Benjamin and Isabel Dozier to Sarah Chinners (Jesse's sister). (Marion Co, SC Deed Book I, page 7, from "Marion County South Carolina Abstracts of Deeds Volume Two Books F-I & K 1811-1823", by Lucille Utley, and Alita White Sutcliffe, 1997)

On 7 Mar 1818 Jesse Wood and Edward B. Wheeler witnessed a deed from Crawford & McNeill, Merchants, to James C. Bellune. (Marion Co, SC Deed Book G, page 69, from "Marion County South Carolina Abstracts of Deeds Volume Two Books F-I & K 1811-1823", by Lucille Utley, and Alita White Sutcliffe, 1997)

Jesse Wood was listed on the 1820 census in Marion Dist, SC. Unfortunately, this census was alphabetical, so I can't determine who his neighbors were. Nancy, his wife, may have been dead by 1820, for the older woman in his household does not seem to be a good age match for her, and she was not listed among his heirs in 1822, so possibly already dead before 1820.

On 4 Dec 1821 Jesse Wood and A. G. Smith witnessed a deed from Henry Foxworth to Igd. Wood (Jesse's son). (Marion Co, SC Deed Book K, page 72, from "Marion County South Carolina Abstracts of Deeds Volume Two Books F-I & K 1811-1823", by Lucille Utley, and Alita White Sutcliffe, 1997)

Jesse Wood died sometime between 4 Dec 1821 and 1 Sep 1822, for on that latter date, his son Igdaliah Wood made suit for letters of Administration to be issued for his estate. The subsequent records list 5 heirs: Igdaliah Wood, Mrs. Rachel Jones, Miss Allafair Wood, Mrs. Rebecca Godbold and Absalom Wood. The record does not reveal the given names of the two married daughters' husbands, but perhaps other records will help identify them. (Probate Roll # 817, published in "Probate Records, Marion County, South Carolina Volume Two", by Lucille Utley, Danny Smith, 1985, page 130).

Jesse's children, though named above, are still mostly unknown, as far as where they went. I found an Igdaliah Wood in Gadsden Co, Florida in later years, and it seems very likely to be the same son of Jesse Wood (how many men could there be with a name like that!). Perhaps other members of this family also went to Florida. I'll look into this more as time permits.

John Wood was born ca 1774, presumably in Georgetown District, now Marion County, South Carolina. He was named in his father's Will of 1808 as his son "John Wood".

John seems to have been at home with his father for the 1790 census, listed in the "under 16" age group (born ca 1774/90).

The 1800 Marion District census shows 3 John Woods listed, all three in the same age group (age 26-44, born ca 1755/74). One of these is probably this John Wood. One of the three was listed as "John G. Wood". I don't know which was which.

On 19 Aug 1803 John Wood Jr purchased 100 acres from William Manning, land on North East side of Catfish Creek. Witnesses were James Legett and William Hays. (Marion Co, SC Deed Book B, page 344, from "Marion County South Carolina Abstracts of Deeds Volume One Books A - E 1800-1811", by Lucille Utley, and Alita White Sutcliffe, 1996)

On 19 Mar 1808 John Wood was named in the Will of his father John Wood Sr as "Son". (Probate Roll # 805, published in "Probate Records, Marion County, South Carolina Volume Two", by Lucille Utley, Danny Smith, 1985, page 123).

On 9 Feb 1809, John Wood and David Legett (brother-in-law) and James James (brother-in-law) witnessed a deed from John Dimery to Hardy Harbert Chinners (brother-in-law). (Marion Co, SC Deed Book E, page 21, from "Marion County South Carolina Abstracts of Deeds Volume One Books A - E 1800-1811", by Lucille Utley, and Alita White Sutcliffe, 1996)

John Wood was not listed on the 1810 census in Marion District, but an apparent widow Unity Wood was listed. Unity Johnson (daughter of Samuel Johnson) was married to an unknown Mr. Wood in the 1800-1807 timeframe. I don't know if Unity was John's wife or not. There were others named "John Wood" and "John Woods" in Marion later on, though none are likely the same person.

Rebecca Wood was born ca 1777/78 (per 1850 census), presumably in Georgetown District, now Marion County, South Carolina. She was named in her father's Will of 1808 as his daughter "Rebecca Legett".

Rebecca was apparently home with her parents in 1790, though no ages were given for females that year. John Wood had 4 females with him, one presumably his wife Sarah, the other three, presumably, daughters Rebecca, Martha and Ann.

Although the Will of Rebecca's father lists her married name as "Legett" (a.k.a. Legette, Leggett, etc.), he did not explicitly state who her husband was. He did name his "sons" Jesse Wood and David Legett as his executors, thus showing that David Legette was a son-in-law, but his other daughter Martha was also married to a Legett. However, other records (deeds, etc) show it was David Legette who was married to Rebecca Wood.

So then, apparently Rebecca Wood married David Legette sometime between ca 1790 and ca 1795 in Georgetown Dist, SC (now Marion Co, SC). David Legette was born ca 1767/68 (per 1850 census) in SC, presumably in what is now Marion County (but then still part of Craven County or Georgetown District, depending on his exact birth date).

Sellers wrote about David Legette in his book, but did not give his parents names. He wrote a great deal about David's family, more than I want to quote here, but I'll quote a little bit:

The above implies that David, Jesse and Abner were brothers, but I don't know if that is correct or not. It could be true. Sellers goes on to give more details about David's children and grand children, etc. He did not give the origin of the Legettes in Marion County, so I'm not sure where they may have come from.

David Legette was listed on the 1800 census in Marion Dist, SC between James Legette and Jesse Legette, presumably his brothers. David had an older woman living with him, perhaps his mother.

On 16 Jun 1803, Zachariah Foxworth and Margaret, his wife, sold land to David Legett for $500. 200 acres on Gum Swamp. Witnesses were John Wood Sr (Rebecca's father), and Jesse Wood (her brother). (Marion Co, SC Deed Book B, page 228, from "Marion County South Carolina Abstracts of Deeds Volume One Books A - E 1800-1811", by Lucille Utley, and Alita White Sutcliffe, 1996)

On 25 Jan 1804, David Legett recorded his livestock ear mark as "a crop in the right ear and slit in the left". (Marion Co, SC Deed Book B, page 323, from "Marion County South Carolina Abstracts of Deeds Volume One Books A - E 1800-1811", by Lucille Utley, and Alita White Sutcliffe, 1996)

On 4 Mar 1805, George Ford sold David Leggett a Negro fellow named Mingo. Witnessed by John Wood (don't know if Rebecca's father or brother). . (Marion Co, SC Deed Book C, page 88, from "Marion County South Carolina Abstracts of Deeds Volume One Books A - E 1800-1811", by Lucille Utley, and Alita White Sutcliffe, 1996)

On 6 Mar 1805 David Legett (and Samuel Gasque) witnessed two deeds from Zachariah Godbold to James Legget. (Marion Co, SC Deed Book C, page 90 and 92, from "Marion County South Carolina Abstracts of Deeds Volume One Books A - E 1800-1811", by Lucille Utley, and Alita White Sutcliffe, 1996)

On 7 Mar 1805 David Legett (and Enos Tart) witnessed a deed from Cade Godbold to James Legget. (Marion Co, SC Deed Book C, page 91, from "Marion County South Carolina Abstracts of Deeds Volume One Books A - E 1800-1811", by Lucille Utley, and Alita White Sutcliffe, 1996)

On 12 Oct 1805 David Legett and Rebecah Legett witnessed a deed from Zachariah Foxworth to Abner Leget. (Marion Co, SC Deed Book C, page 244, from "Marion County South Carolina Abstracts of Deeds Volume One Books A - E 1800-1811", by Lucille Utley, and Alita White Sutcliffe, 1996)

On 24 Mar 1806 David and Rebecca Legett sold 199 acres to Abner Legett for $250, land on edge of Catfish Marsh. Witnesses were Henry C. Legett and Stephen Foxworth. (Marion Co, SC Deed Book C, page 246, from "Marion County South Carolina Abstracts of Deeds Volume One Books A - E 1800-1811", by Lucille Utley, and Alita White Sutcliffe, 1996)

On 18 Mar 1806, David Legett and Rebeca Legett and Jesse Legett witnessed a deed from John Wood (Rebecca's father) to Jesse Wood (Rebecca's brother). (Marion Co, SC Deed Book D, page 14, from "Marion County South Carolina Abstracts of Deeds Volume One Books A - E 1800-1811", by Lucille Utley, and Alita White Sutcliffe, 1996)

On 3 Nov 1807, David Legett and Rebeca Legett witnessed a deed from Anthony Brisson to Jesse Legett. (Marion Co, SC Deed Book E, page 50, from "Marion County South Carolina Abstracts of Deeds Volume One Books A - E 1800-1811", by Lucille Utley, and Alita White Sutcliffe, 1996)

On 19 Mar 1808 Rebecca Legette was named in the Will of her father John Wood Sr as "daughter". David Legette was also named as executor and as "son". (Probate Roll # 805, published in "Probate Records, Marion County, South Carolina Volume Two", by Lucille Utley, Danny Smith, 1985, page 123).

On 9 Feb 1809, John Wood (Rebecca's brother) and David Legett and James James (brother-in-law) witnessed a deed from John Dimery to Hardy Harbert Chinners (nephew). (Marion Co, SC Deed Book E, page 21, from "Marion County South Carolina Abstracts of Deeds Volume One Books A - E 1800-1811", by Lucille Utley, and Alita White Sutcliffe, 1996)

On 16 Feb 1809, David Leggett "of Gilesborough, SC, Inn Keeper" and wife Rabecca Leggett sold 200 acres to James Leggett, land on the North side of Gum Swamp, for $500. Witnesses were A. Johnson and John McLean. (Marion Co, SC Deed Book D, page 277, from "Marion County South Carolina Abstracts of Deeds Volume One Books A - E 1800-1811", by Lucille Utley, and Alita White Sutcliffe, 1996)

David Legette was listed on the 1810 census in Marion Dist, SC between Jacob Rowell and Joseph Thomas.

On 5 Dec 1816, James and Susan Jones sold David Leggett 100 acres, for $800, land on west side of Smith Swamp. Witnesses were Duncan McRae and Stephen Burket (Marion Co, SC Deed Book G, page 60, from "Marion County South Carolina Abstracts of Deeds Volume Two Books F-I & K 1811-1823", by Lucille Utley, and Alita White Sutcliffe, 1997)

On some date in 1817 (no date on deed, but recorded 17 Mar 1817), Thomas Godbold Sr sold David Legett one lot in Gilesborough (present town of Marion) on Godbold Street, east side of the Academy # 38, being 160' square. Witnessed by John Wilkerson and John Harllee. (Marion Co, SC Deed Book F, page 442, from "Marion County South Carolina Abstracts of Deeds Volume Two Books F-I & K 1811-1823", by Lucille Utley, and Alita White Sutcliffe, 1997)

On 28 Aug 1819 David Legett sold Levi Legett (his son) a Negro man named Answor, aged about 21 years. Witnessed by E. B. Wheeler (David's son-in-law), Willis Crawford. (Marion Co, SC Deed Book I, page 93, from "Marion County South Carolina Abstracts of Deeds Volume Two Books F-I & K 1811-1823", by Lucille Utley, and Alita White Sutcliffe, 1997)

On 13 Dec 1819 David Legett sold Thomas Collins a Negro girl named Cynthia, aged about 15 years. Witnessed by E. B. Wheeler (David's son-in-law), and Dugal C. Carmichael. (Marion Co, SC Deed Book I, page 140, from "Marion County South Carolina Abstracts of Deeds Volume Two Books F-I & K 1811-1823", by Lucille Utley, and Alita White Sutcliffe, 1997)

For some reason or another, David and Rebecca seemed to be in different households for the 1820 census. This may just represent them living in two different, but adjoining houses, or perhaps they were separated from some reason or another. Unfortunately, the 1820 census was alphabetical, so I can't tell if they were living next do each other, or if more distant. David was by himself, and Rebecca had the children with her. One logical explanation (other than them being "separated"), is that since David was an Inn Keeper in Marion (Gilesborough), he may have lived at the Inn, while Rebecca and the kids lived at the homestead (but this doesn't really seem to be the answer, though possible).

On 2 May 1820, Thomas Godbold Senr sold David Legett a lot in Gilesborough, being 160' square. Witneseed by Thomas Godbold and Elly Gasque. (Marion Co, SC Deed Book K, page 175, from "Marion County South Carolina Abstracts of Deeds Volume Two Books F-I & K 1811-1823", by Lucille Utley, and Alita White Sutcliffe, 1997)

On 3 Mar 1821, David Legett sold a lot in Gilesborough to his daughter Martha, wife of John Landing. He stated that she was his daughter. Witnessed by Levi Legett (son) and Abner Legett Jr (son). (Marion Co, SC Deed Book K, page 176, from "Marion County South Carolina Abstracts of Deeds Volume Two Books F-I & K 1811-1823", by Lucille Utley, and Alita White Sutcliffe, 1997)

David and Rebecca were still apparently separated for the 1830 census, listed in two different households. David was again alone, and Rebecca seemed to have the children with her (and some apparent grandchildren as well). Once again though, this census was alphabetical, so I can't tell who was living where, nor if they were neighbors to each other.

David Legette "Sr" was listed on the 1840 census in Marion District. He was between R. W. Smith and Joseph Turbeville. Rebecca Legette was not listed in 1840, but someone her age was residing with son Levi Legette, so I suspect that was her. In Levi's household was a female age 60-69, or born ca 1770/80, which is a perfect fit for Rebecca.

Rebecca and David were still separate for the 1850 census. She was listed by herself, between the households of her nephew Pinkney James and Sarah Bryant. David Legette was many pages away, next door to son Levi Legette. David had a young James Wright (c1838) with him, perhaps a grandson, or nephew. Neither David nor Rebecca were listed with any real property, so apparently they owned no land at this time.

I did not find David nor Rebecca on the 1860 census, so I suppose they both died in the 1850/1860 timeframe. I did not find Equity or Probate records for either of them.

Martha Wood was born ca 1778/79 (based on her age of "70" at death in 1849), presumably in Georgetown District, now Marion County, South Carolina. She was named in her father's Will of 1808 as his daughter "Martha Legett".

Martha was apparently home with her parents in 1790, though no ages were given for females that year. John Wood had 4 females with him, one presumably his wife Sarah, the other three, presumably, daughters Rebecca, Martha and Ann.

Although the Will of Martha's father lists her married name as "Legett" (a.k.a. Legette, Leggett, etc.), he did not explicitly state who her husband was. He did name his "sons" Jesse Wood and David Legett as his executors, thus showing that David Legette was a son-in-law. Other records show that David Legette was married to Rebecca Wood, Martha's sister. I found deeds and other records proving that Martha's husband was Jesse Legette, possibly a brother to David Legette.

Martha Wood married Jesse Legette sometime between 1790 and 1800 in Georgetown Dist, SC (now Marion Co, SC). Jesse was born ca 1773/74 (based on being age "54" when he died in 1828). He was presumably born in Georgetown Dist, now Marion County, SC.

I don't know who Jesse's parents were, but it seems likely that he was a brother to David Legette, who married Martha's sister Rebecca Wood.

Sellers wrote about Jesse Legette in his book, but did not give his parents names. He wrote a great deal about Jesse's family, more than I want to quote here, but I'll quote a little bit:

Sellers said much more about Jesse's children, and their offspring, more than I'd care to repeat here.

Jesse Legette was listed on the 1800 census in Marion District, next to his brother David Legette, and next to Absolum Foxworth.

On 18 Mar 1806, David Legett and Rebeca Legett (Martha's sister) and Jesse Legett witnessed a deed from John Wood (Martha's father) to Jesse Wood (Martha's brother). (Marion Co, SC Deed Book D, page 14, from "Marion County South Carolina Abstracts of Deeds Volume One Books A - E 1800-1811", by Lucille Utley, and Alita White Sutcliffe, 1996)

On 8 Jul 1807, Jesse Legett and Henry Foxworth witnessed a deed from Job Foxworth Sr to Ebby Burkett. (Marion Co, SC Deed Book C, page 387, from "Marion County South Carolina Abstracts of Deeds Volume One Books A - E 1800-1811", by Lucille Utley, and Alita White Sutcliffe, 1996)

On 9 Oct 1807, Abner Legett (possibly Jesse's brother) sold Jesse Legette 199 acres, and also 300 acres near Catfish Swamp, on Southwest side Catfish Creek, and North side of Gum Swamp. Witnessed by Henry C. Legett and Elizabeth Legett. (Marion Co, SC Deed Book D, page 32, from "Marion County South Carolina Abstracts of Deeds Volume One Books A - E 1800-1811", by Lucille Utley, and Alita White Sutcliffe, 1996)

On 3 Nov 1807, Anthony Brisson sold Jesse Legett, 38 acres on north edge Gum Swamp. Witnessed by David Legett (brother?) and Rebeca Legett (sister-in-law). (Marion Co, SC Deed Book E, page 50 and 51, from "Marion County South Carolina Abstracts of Deeds Volume One Books A - E 1800-1811", by Lucille Utley, and Alita White Sutcliffe, 1996)

On 19 Mar 1808 Martha Legette was named in the Will of her father John Wood Sr as "daughter". Her husband was not mentioned by name. (Probate Roll # 805, published in "Probate Records, Marion County, South Carolina Volume Two", by Lucille Utley, Danny Smith, 1985, page 123).

For some reason, I was not able to find Jesse Legette on the 1810 Marion District, census. He may have been out of the county that year, or just missed for some reason. It is also possible that they were residing with another family in 1810.

On 11 Jan 1813, Jesse Legett and Alexander M. Auld witnessed a deed from Thomas Godbold Sr and wife Martha to James R. Ervin. (Marion Co, SC Deed Book F, page 94, from "Marion County South Carolina Abstracts of Deeds Volume Two Books F-I & K 1811-1823", by Lucille Utley, and Alita White Sutcliffe, 1997)

On 2 Sep 1816, Jesse Legett and Richard Fore witnessed a deed from John Smith to Francis A. Wayne. (Marion Co, SC Deed Book H, page 104, from "Marion County South Carolina Abstracts of Deeds Volume Two Books F-I & K 1811-1823", by Lucille Utley, and Alita White Sutcliffe, 1997)

On 3 Sep 1816, Jesse Legett witnessed a deed from Nancy Smith, widow, to C. Daniel. (Marion Co, SC Deed Book F, page 359, from "Marion County South Carolina Abstracts of Deeds Volume Two Books F-I & K 1811-1823", by Lucille Utley, and Alita White Sutcliffe, 1997)

On 1 Jan 1817 James Legett sold C. Daniel, 38 acres on Gum Swamp. Witnessed by Elly Gasque. (Marion Co, SC Deed Book F, page 429, from "Marion County South Carolina Abstracts of Deeds Volume Two Books F-I & K 1811-1823", by Lucille Utley, and Alita White Sutcliffe, 1997)

Jesse Legette was listed on the 1820 census in Marion Dist, SC. This census was alphabetical, so I can't tell where he was living exactly, nor who his neighbors were.

On 8 Mar 1820, Jesse Legett and wife Martha Legett, sold John Gasque 199 acres for $2000, and also 300 acres, near Catfish Swamp. Witnesses were John G. Smith and Francis A. Wayne. (Marion Co, SC Deed Book K, page 149, from "Marion County South Carolina Abstracts of Deeds Volume Two Books F-I & K 1811-1823", by Lucille Utley, and Alita White Sutcliffe, 1997)

On 3 Jul 1820 Jesse Legett and Edward Brown witnessed a deed from Ezekiel Chinners and Sarah Chinners (sister of Martha) and Hardy H. Chinners to Silas White. (Marion Co, SC Deed Book I, page 288, from "Marion County South Carolina Abstracts of Deeds Volume Two Books F-I & K 1811-1823", by Lucille Utley, and Alita White Sutcliffe, 1997)

Jesse Legette died on 5 Jun 1828 in Marion Dist, SC, and is buried at the Legette Cemetery. His stone gives his death date, and says he was "54" years old.

Jesse's Estate records began on 21 Jul 1828 when Martha and Ebenezer Legett (their son) made suit for letters of administration for his estate. The same records show minor heirs: Ann, Jane, and Treasy. Other heirs were not named in these records. (Probate Roll # 447, published in "Probate Records, Marion County, South Carolina Volume One", by Lucille Utley, Danny Smith, 1985, pages 264, 265).

On 20 Oct 1828 Ebenezer Legett obtained a guardianship bond for the minor children of Jesse Legett, including: Jesse Legett, Sarah Martha Legett, Ann Legett, Jane Legett and Teresa Legett, all minors. (Probate Roll # 868, published in "Probate Records, Marion County, South Carolina Volume One", by Lucille Utley, Danny Smith, 1985, page 271).

Martha Legette was listed as head of household on the 1830 census in Marion District, SC. Once again, the census was alphabetical.

Martha Legette was listed as head of household on the 1840 census. She was listed between John N. Legette (probably a nephew), and Malachi James (possibly a nephew, also). She was just a few houses from her son David Legette. Martha seemed to have some grandchildren with her in 1840.

Martha Wood Legette died on 20 Apr 1849 and is buried at the Legette Cemetery. Her stone lists her as "Martha W. Legette" and gives her death date, and age "70". I didn't find any equity or probate records for Martha.

Ann Wood was born ca 1784/90, presumably in Georgetown District, now Marion County, South Carolina. She was named in her father's Will of 1808 as his daughter "Anne James".

Ann was apparently home with her parents in 1790, though no ages were given for females that year. John Wood had 4 females with him, one presumably his wife Sarah, the other three, presumably, daughters Rebecca, Martha and Ann.

Although the Will of Ann's father lists her married name as "James", he did not explicitly state who her husband was. However, James James was a witness to the will, and it would appear that he was her husband, based on this and other bits of circumstantial evidence.

So it would seem that Ann Wood married James James sometime between 1800 and 1808 in Marion Dist, SC. See their own page for additional information.

Researcher List

1. John¹ Wood , born abt 1750; died 1808 in Marion Dist, SC. He married bef 1771 in Georgetown Dist, SC (now Marion Co, SC) Sarah B (---) , born abt 1749; died 17 Sep 1837 in Marion Dist, SC; buried in Legette Cem, Marion Co, SC.

Children of John Wood and Sarah B (---) were as follows:

+ 2 i Sarah² Wood , born 1755/65 in Georgetown Dist, SC (now Marion Co, SC); died 1821 in Marion Dist, SC. She married Ezekiel Chinners .

+ 3 ii Jesse² Wood Rev , born 1765/74 in Georgetown Dist, SC (now Marion Co, SC); died 1822 in Marion Dist, SC. He married Nancy (---) .

4 iii John² Wood , born 1774/90 in Georgetown Dist, SC (now Marion Co, SC).

+ 5 iv Rebecca² Wood , born 1777/78 in Georgetown Dist, SC (now Marion Co, SC); died 1850/60 in Marion Dist, SC. She married David Legette .

+ 6 v Martha² Wood , born 1778/79 in Georgetown Dist, SC (now Marion Co, SC); died 20 Apr 1849 in Marion Dist, SC; buried in Legette Cem, Marion Co, SC. She married Jesse Legette Rev .

+ 7 vi Anne² Wood , born 1784/90 in Georgetown Dist, SC (now Marion Co, SC); died 1841 in Marion Dist, SC. She married James James .

Generation 2

2. Sarah² Wood (John¹), born 1755/65 in Georgetown Dist, SC (now Marion Co, SC); died 1821 in Marion Dist, SC. She married bef 1790 in Georgetown Dist, SC (now Marion Co, SC) Ezekiel Chinners , born bef 1755; died abt 1820 in Marion Dist, SC.

Children of Sarah Wood and Ezekiel Chinners were as follows:

8 i Hardy Harbert³ Chinners , born 1784/90 in Georgetown Dist, SC (now Horry Co, SC); died aft 1830.

3. Jesse² Wood Rev (John¹), born 1765/74 in Georgetown Dist, SC (now Marion Co, SC); died 1822 in Marion Dist, SC. He married bef 1800 in Georgetown Dist, SC (now Marion Co, SC) Nancy (---) , born 1765/74.

Children of Jesse Wood Rev and Nancy (---) were as follows:

9 i Igdaliah³ Wood Rev , born 1800/01 in Marion Dist, SC; died Sep 1869 in Gadsden Co, FL. He married Eliza Dixon , born 1 Apr 1802; died Jul 1870 in Gadsden Co, FL, daughter of Abel Dixon and Tabitha (---) .

10 ii Rachel³ Wood , born in Marion Dist, SC. She married bef 1822 in Marion Dist, SC (---) Jones .

11 iii Allafair³ Wood , born in Marion Dist, SC.

+ 12 iv Rebecca³ Wood , born 1800/10 in Marion Dist, SC; died 14 Nov 1845 in Marion Dist, SC; buried in Spencer-Godbold Cem, Marion Co, SC. She married Stephen Godbold .

13 v Absalom³ Wood , born in Marion Dist, SC.

5. Rebecca² Wood (John¹), born 1777/78 in Georgetown Dist, SC (now Marion Co, SC); died 1850/60 in Marion Dist, SC. She married bef 1795 in Georgetown Dist, SC (now Marion Co, SC) David Legette , born 1767/68 in Georgetown Dist, SC (now Marion Co, SC); died 1850/60 in Marion Dist, SC.

Children of Rebecca Wood and David Legette were as follows:

+ 14 i Levi³ Legette Colonel , born 1794/95 in Georgetown Dist, SC (now Marion Co, SC); died 7 Sep 1871 in Marion Co, SC. He married (1) Zilpha Evans ; (2) Althea Alford .

+ 15 ii Abner³ Legette , born 1801/02 in Marion Dist, SC. He married Eliza (---) .

16 iii Martha³ Legette , born 1794/1804 in Marion Dist, SC. She married bef 1820 in Marion Dist, SC John Landing , born 1775/94.

17 iv Elizabeth³ Legette , born 1804/05 in Marion Dist, SC.

+ 18 v Clara L³ Legette , born 1813/14 in Marion Dist, SC; died abt 1880 in Marion Co, SC. She married Edward B Wheeler General .

6. Martha² Wood (John¹), born 1778/79 in Georgetown Dist, SC (now Marion Co, SC); died 20 Apr 1849 in Marion Dist, SC; buried in Legette Cem, Marion Co, SC. She married in 1790/1800 in Marion Dist, SC Jesse Legette Rev , born abt 1774; died 5 Jun 1828 in Marion Dist, SC; buried in Legette Cem, Marion Co, SC.

Children of Martha Wood and Jesse Legette Rev were as follows:

+ 19 i Ebenezer³ Legette Rev , born 1799/1800 in Marion Dist, SC; died 1854 in Marion Dist, SC. He married Catherine M (---) .

+ 20 ii Elizabeth Marjory³ Legette , born 1800/01 in Marion Dist, SC; died 1870/80 in Marion Co, SC. She married Francis Asbury Wayne .

+ 21 iii David³ Legette Rev , born 4 Mar 1804 in Marion Co, SC; died 10 Sep 1880 in Marion Co, SC; buried in Centenary Methodist Cem, Marion Co, SC. He married (1) Martha A Richardson ; (2) Mary Jane (---) .

+ 22 iv Jesse³ Legette Rev , born 1808/09 in Marion Co, SC; died 1850/55 in GA on way to TX. He married Charlotte Richardson .

23 v Sarah Martha³ Legette , born in Marion Dist, SC.

+ 24 vi Ann W³ Legette , born 1816/17 in Marion Dist, SC; died aft 1880 in Marion Co, SC. She married James A Snow .

+ 25 vii Jane Ann³ Legette , born 1819/20 in Marion Dist, SC; died aft 1880 in Marion Co, SC. She married Ashley S Legette .

+ 26 viii Theresa³ Legette , born 1822/23 in Marion Dist, SC; died 1850/58 in Marion Dist, SC. She married Pinkney L Palmer .

7. Anne² Wood (John¹), born 1784/90 in Georgetown Dist, SC (now Marion Co, SC); died 1841 in Marion Dist, SC. She married bef 19 Mar 1808 in Marion Dist, SC James James , born 1774/80 in Georgetown Dist, SC (now Marion Co, SC); died aft 1830 in Marion Dist, SC, son of William James and Elizabeth (---) .

Children of Anne Wood and James James were as follows:

+ 27 i Addin W³ James , born 1804/10 in Marion Dist, SC; died Mar 1842 in Marion Dist, SC. He married Celia Jane Phillips .

+ 28 ii Pinkney J³ James , born 25 Nov 1816 in Marion Dist, SC; died 3 Aug 1907 in Marion Co, SC; buried in McMillan Cem, Marion Co, SC. He married (1) Sophie J (---) ; (2) Sarah M (---) .

Generation 3

12. Rebecca³ Wood (Jesse², John¹), born 1800/10 in Marion Dist, SC; died 14 Nov 1845 in Marion Dist, SC; buried in Spencer-Godbold Cem, Marion Co, SC. She married in 1820/22 in Marion Dist, SC Stephen Godbold , born 1765/70; died 8 Mar 1845 in Marion Dist, SC, son of Thomas Godbold and Martha Herron .

Children of Rebecca Wood and Stephen Godbold were as follows:

+ 29 i James D⁴ Godbold , born 1824/25 in Marion Dist, SC. He married Susan (---) .

+ 30 ii Eliza Alice H⁴ Godbold , born 28 Oct 1832 in Marion Dist, SC; died 19 Sep 1916 in Marion Co, SC; buried in Spencer-Godbold Cem, Marion Co, SC. She married John F Spencer .

31 iii Martha Jane⁴ Godbold , born in Marion Dist, SC.

14. Levi³ Legette Colonel (Rebecca² Wood, John¹), born 1794/95 in Georgetown Dist, SC (now Marion Co, SC); died 7 Sep 1871 in Marion Co, SC. He married (1) bef 1826 in Marion Dist, SC Zilpha Evans , born 1797/98 in Georgetown Dist, SC (now Marion Co, SC); died 1850/60 in Marion Dist, SC; (2) in 1860 in Marion Dist, SC Althea Alford , born 1811/12 in TN, daughter of Lodwick B Alford .

Children of Levi Legette Colonel and Zilpha Evans were as follows:

+ 32 i Melvina⁴ Legette , born 10 Jan 1826 in Marion Dist, SC; died 15 Oct 1903 in Marion Co, SC; buried in Lloyd Cem, Marion Co, SC. She married William Lloyd .

+ 33 ii Anna⁴ Legette , born 1827/28 in Marion Dist, SC. She married (1) Evan A Rogers ; (2) Jesse Rogers .

+ 34 iii Morgan⁴ Legette , born 1828/29 in Marion Dist, SC; died Jun 1862 in Civil War. He married Elizabeth A (---) .

+ 35 iv Levi⁴ Legette , born 1831/32 in Marion Dist, SC. He married Frances (---) .

+ 36 v Mary⁴ Legette , born 1833/34 in Marion Dist, SC. She married Edward G Collins .

37 vi David⁴ Legette , born 1835/36 in Marion Dist, SC.

15. Abner³ Legette (Rebecca² Wood, John¹), born 1801/02 in Marion Dist, SC. He married bef 1829 in Marion Dist, SC Eliza (---) , born 1809/10 in Marion Dist, SC.

Children of Abner Legette and Eliza (---) were as follows:

38 i Lucy⁴ Legette , born 1828/29 in Marion Dist, SC.

39 ii Abner⁴ Legette , born 1840/41 in Marion Dist, SC.

18. Clara L³ Legette

John Wood (d 1808) and Sarah --- of Marion Co, SC

Children

Researcher List

Register Report