Marty and Karla Grant

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Jacob Davis (1801-1873) and Susanna Miller of Ashe, Burke, Yancey, Cherokee and Graham Co., NC and Blount Co., TN.

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Jacob and Susanna (Miller) Davis are my 4^th Great Grandparents.

Special thanks to many researchers who helped me with the Davis family over the years, especially Evelyn Rice Tharp (1927-2021). Two books were really helpful as well:

 

∙           The Miller Families of Ashe County, NC, by Danny L. Miller © 1979, 1988. The full book is available for free download at the link.

∙           “The Davis Family Record” by Orville Wright Davis. (No publication date, ca 1979.)

Jacob Davis was born in 1801 per his tombstone, though we can’t rely on that because his marker is a modern one placed many years after his death. We can use census records to get an approximation:

∙           1830 census age 20-29, born 1800/1810.

∙           1840 census age 30-39, born 1800/1810.

∙           1850 census age 50, born ca 1799/1800.

∙           1860 census age 57, born ca 1802/1803.

∙           1870 census age 67, born ca 1802/1803.

His 1860 and 1870 entries are in perfect agreement with each other, so I suggest Jacob was born ca 1802/03.

Jacob was born in Burke Co., NC in the section that later became Yancey. This is proven by his 1860 census entry which lists his birth place as “Yancy” Co., NC.

Jacob Davis was probably named for his mother’s brother Jacob Carpenter.

Jacob is a proven son of William Davis and Frances Carpenter as named in William’s Will. I emphasize that because if you look at the court house copy of the Will, Jacob is not listed in it. This is because the clerk who hand copied the original Will into the books left him out accidentally. The original Will has been lost to time, but the estate papers make it very clear that Jacob was an heir of William’s and referred to in the Will. Further, Jacob’s son Isaac Thomas Davis (1828-1915) told many stories about his grandfather William Davis. He would have known who his grandfather was, especially since their lives overlapped, Isaac being about 13 when William died.

Jacob was apparently with his parents for the 1810 census in Burke, one of two boys under 10 (born 1800/1810), and with them still in 1820 in Burke, one of two boys aged 16-25 (1794/1804) and also the one listed as 16-17 or born 1802/1804.

In July 1820 Burke County court, Aden Carver was appointed overseer of the Yellow Mountain road from David Tate’s plantation to Gilbert White’s with the hands to work under him, (to wit): Adin Carver, William Poteat, Henry Steveter?, John Davis, Jacob Davis, Jacob Carpenter, Bedford Wiseman, Alexander Wiseman, John Ollis, Thomas Carver, Gilbert White & Thomas Burllison.

In January 1824 Burke county court, it was ordered that a road crew under Thomas Burleson oversee the road “leading toward the Yellow Mountain from David Tate’s plantation to Gilbert White’s.” That’s the same road from the 1820 court order. The names of the road crew included Jacob Davis and many of his relatives. Some of the names:

∙           William Carpenter (his 1^st cousin)

∙           Jacob Davis

∙           Thomas Davis (his brother)

∙           John Davis (his brother)

∙           John Vance (his soon-to-be brother-in-law)

∙           David Carpenter (his 1^st cousin)

∙           William Vaughan (his brother-in-law)

∙           Thomas Burlison (his brother-in-law)

Jacob Davis must have gone to Ashe Co., NC to visit relatives in 1825 for on 4 Jul 1825 he married Susanna Miller there at the county court house. She was his 1^st cousin. Susanna Miller was born 21 May 1808 in Ashe Co., NC, a child of Jonathan Miller and Margaret Carpenter. Margaret was a sister of Jacob’s mother Frances Carpenter Davis.

Some family trees will show her as Susanna Elizabeth Miller which is incorrect. This is based on the death certificate of her son Isaac Thomas Davis (died 1915) in which the informant listed his parents as Jacob Davis (correct) and Elizabeth Mills (incorrect). “Mills” might be a badly written “Miller” but her name was not Elizabeth but Susanna. She has an older sister named Elizabeth so it’s unlikely that was also her middle name. Death Certificates are notoriously unreliable in regard to the parents of the deceased.

I don’t know if they remained in Ashe County any length of time. They were back in Burke by April 1827 when Jacob was named in a court record there. The court ordered that several men view and condemn 3000 acres towards the building of an Ironworks. The names: Isaac T. Avery, Jonas Davenport, George Rowin, Jacob Davis, Jacob Carpenter, Aden Carver, Joseph Hopson, Bedford Wiseman, Aron Burlison, Thos Burlison, Harris Pitman, Wilson McKeney, Reuben McKeney, John Davis, Reuben Young, John Buchanan, and Shackwell? Green.

Jacob Carpenter was Jacob Davis’s uncle. John Davis was Jacob’s brother. George Rowan and Thomas Burleson were his brothers-in-law.

They were still in Burke for the 1830 census listed amongst many relatives, and next door to 1^st cousin David Carpenter, whose son William Carpenter would later marry Jacob’s daughter Margaret Davis.

1830 Census, Burke Co., NC

Page

Name (Males first row, females on second)

0-4

5-9

10-14

15-19

20-29

30-39

40-49

50-59

60-69

70-79

80-89

90-99

100+

195

Jacob Davis

1

~

~

~

1

~

~

~

~

~

~

~

~

1

~

~

1

~

~

~

~

~

~

~

~

~

My Analysis (who each person *might* be):

1m 20-29 (1800/1810)       Jacob Davis (c1803)

1m 0-4 (1825/1830)            Isaac Thomas Davis (1828) son

1f 15-19 (1810/1815)         Susanna Miller Davis (1808) wife

1f 0-4 (1825/1830)              Celia Lucinda Davis (1827) daughter;

To Ashe Co., NC 1830

They were back in Ashe by August for daughter Frances was born there at that time. However, apparently Jacob was back in Burke in October, for then he proved a deed in Burke Court that month (Oct 1830) dated 26 Dec 1826 between William Davis (his father) and Josiah G. Wise (brother-in-law). The Burke County deeds from this era are lost, so the court entries are all we know about them for the most part. Jacob must have soon gone back to Ashe.

On 28 Aug 1831 Jacob Davis purchased land from Thomas Sutherland in Ashe Co., NC, being 100 acres on the North Fork of New River. Mentions Jonathan Miller’s corner (his father-in-law). Witnesses were William Weaver, L. H. Johnson and David Miller. David was Susanna’s brother, and William Weaver was her brother-in-law. (Ashe Co., NC Deed Book G, p. 267.)

On 21 Sep 1833, Jacob Carpenter of Burke Co., NC deeded land to his son David Carpenter in Ashe Co., NC, for “love and affection” he gave him 100 acres on the left hand fork of Rich Hill Creek. Jacob Carpenter signed. Jacob Davis and Rueben Peppers witnessed. (Ashe Co., NC Deed Book M1, p. 318.) Jacob Carpenter was Jacob Davis’s uncle.

In 1833 (no month or day listed), Jacob Davis sold land to Jonathan Miller, his father-in-law for $24, being 23 acres. Jacob signed with a mark. Witnesses were Jacob’s brothers-in-law David Miller and Mathias Miller. (Ashe Co., NC Deed Book U, p. 407).

Jacob and Susanna’s maternal grandparents Mathias and Elizabeth (Miller) Carpenter both died in October 1835 in Ashe Co., NC. No Will or probate records have been found, however, the heirs made several deeds amongst themselves dividing the land between them which proves the Carpenter family quite well. Jacob’s mother Frances Carpenter Davis traveled to Ashe County to sign these deeds. Her son Jacob signed them too, causing some earlier researchers to think he was her husband instead of her son since they were both on the deeds. Some are still confused by this. However, Jacob was signing on behalf of his father who was already in his 90s then and couldn’t travel to Ashe County. On 16 Oct 1835 William Davis of Yancey Co., NC granted Jacob Davis of Ashe Co., NC his power of attorney to deal with his share of the estate of Mathias Carpenter, deceased. William Davis signed with his mark. Witnesses were Josiah G. Wise and David Miller. (Ashe Co., NC Deeds Book 1839-1842, p. 250 and Deed Book G, p. 249.)

Josiah G. Wise was married to Jacob Davis’s sister. David Miller was Jacob’s wife Susanna’s brother. He apparently went from Ashe to Yancey at that time to get this power of attorney from his uncle William Davis. David was 25 and unmarried at the time, so perhaps that’s why he was sent. He is the one who proved the power of attorney in Ashe County court 22 Oct 1836.

There were several deeds among the heirs dated 28 Oct 1835. In most cases Jacob Davis signed after Franky Davis, which is subtle, but it indicates he wasn’t her husband, for the husbands almost always signed first. (Ashe Co., NC Deed Book G, pp. 164-167, 354 and Book M-2, pp. 93-94, 100-101 and Book “Old M”, pp. 103, 642-645.)

One of those deeds from 28 Oct 1835, Jacob Davis was deeded land by “The Carpenter Heirs,” namely, Jacob Carpenter, Margaret Miller, Jonathan Miller, Joseph Roten, Mary Roten, David Carpenter and Christena Carpenter. All were described as residents of Ashe Co., NC which was true except for Jacob Carpenter, but this is a normal error on deeds. For $400 they sold Jacob Davis 200 acres on the head of Mill Creek. Witnesses were John Poe and William Weaver. Franky Davis was not mentioned in the deed nor did she sign it. (Ashe Co., NC Deed Book G, p. 368.)

The Davises received slaves the same day which Jacob transferred to his father. This one wasn’t found in the Ashe Co., NC Deed Books but was filed in Graham Co., NC by Jacob presumably:

 

Know all men by these presents that we Jonathan Miller Margaret Miller Jacob Carpenter Joseph Roton Mary Roton David Carpenter Christeny Carpenter all of county of Ash and state of N Carolina hath bargained and sold unto Jacob Davis three negro slaves one named Leah age twenty two and one named Caroline aged five and one named Catharine aged three years old for the sum of six hundred dollars.

 

Which Negro slaves we do here by warrant and for ever defend to him the said Jacob Davis and his heirs forever and the performance of the above we have here unto assign our names this 28 day of October AD 1835.

Signed sealed and delivered

(Signed) Jonathan Miller, David Carpenter, Jacob Carpenter, Margaret (her mark) Miller, Joseph (his mark) Roton, Mary (her mark) Roton, Christeny (her mark) Carpenter.

             Witnesses: Wm Weaver, John Poe.

 

I, Jacob Davis to hereby assign over all my right title & claim of the within bill of sale for the Three Negroes mentioned in sd bill of sale to William Davis Signior of the County of Yancey & State of North Carolina.

This July 21^st, 1836.

Signed: Jacob (his mark) Davis.

             Witnessed by Josiah G. Wise.

There is another Bill of Sale in the same folder, between Franky Davis, Jacob Davis, Jacob Carpenter, Joseph Roton, Mary Roton, David Carpenter, Christeny Carpenter all of Ashe, to Jonathan Miller for four Negroes: Flory aged 25, Sally age 15, Spencer 6, and Noah age 2. There were no signatures or date on that one.

The above are filed in Miscellaneous Graham Co., NC documents, presumably taken there by Jacob Davis years after the fact and filed in the local court house for some reason.

On 9 May 1836, Jacob’s father William Davis made his Will in Yancey Co., NC naming his children including Jacob, though as noted already, the court house copy left Jacob off the Will, which has caused much confusion among researchers for years. However, as noted, estate papers show clearly that Jacob was also an heir and apparently named in the original Will. (More on that chronologically below.)

To Blount Co., TN 1837-1838

Sometime between 1837 and 1838, Jacob Davis and family moved to Blount Co., TN in the section known as Cades Cove. This region is now part of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Jacob’s younger brother Thomas had moved there ca 1835, and must have sent back good reports of the area so Jacob joined him. Their older half sister Sarah Davis Rowan (wife of George Rowan) had moved there ca 1835 as well.

On 17 Jul 1838, David B. Tipton sold land to Jacob Davis, for $800, both residents of Blount Co., TN. The land was on Abrams Creek containing 120 acres. The description mentions Jacob Davis’s line, meaning he already had land there. The deed was signed by D. B. Tipton and witnessed by William Henry and William Deaver. (Blount Co., TN Deed Book N, pp. 177-179.)

Coincidentally, the above land had originally been granted to William Tipton, assignee of Aaron Crowson in 1820. I mention that because Aaron Crowson is a distant uncle of my wife. This is one of the very few times our ancestors ever lived near one another.

There is a power of attorney in Ashe Co., NC dated 1 Oct 1839 naming the heirs of Henry Davis and wife Jane Davis, formerly Jane Pyatte, heirs at law of Peter Pyatte, deceased of South Carolina, granted to Edmond Parsons. Among the heirs is a Jacob Davis. This isn’t our Jacob. I don’t know that the Jacob in this document ever lived in Ashe Co., NC. (Ashe Co., NC Deeds 1843-1849, p. 198.)

Jacob is listed on the 1840 census in Blount Co., TN two houses from brother Thomas Davis. There was a John Davis (1790/1800) on the same page, about 11 houses away. It’s tempting to think that’s their older brother John (1798), but I don’t believe he ever lived in TN. He was still in NC in 1840. I don’t know who this other John is, whether related or not.

Robert Burchfield (c1774) was nearby as well. He was a neighbor to the Davis’s in NC before this. He is Thomas Davis’s father-in-law.

Nathan Rose (c1809) was three houses from Jacob Davis. He was married to Jacob’s niece Rebecca Rowan. Her parents, George and Sarah (Davis) Rowan were listed there in 1840, but not near Jacob Davis.

1840 Census, Blount Co., TN

Page	Name (Males first row, females on second)	0-4	5-9	10-14	15-19	20-29	30-39	40-49	50-59	60-69	70-79	80-89	90-99	100+
95	Jacob Davis	1	~	~	1	1	1	~	~	~	~	~	~	~
		~	2	2	~	~	1	~	~	~	~	~	~	~

My Analysis (who each person might be):

1m 30-39 (1800/1810)       Jacob Davis (c1803)

1m 20-29 (1810/1820)       ?

1m 15-19 (1820/1825)       Isaac Thomas Davis (1828) son

1m 0-4 (1835/1840)            William Harrison Davis (1837) son

1f 30-39 (1800/1810)         Susanna Miller Davis (1808) wife

2f 10-14 (1825/1830)         1. Celia Lucinda Davis (1827) daughter

                                               2. Frances Malinda Davis (1830) daughter

2f 5-9 (1830/1835)              1. Mary Matilda Davis (1832) daughter

                                               2. Margaret Ann Davis (1835) daughter;

I should note that another Jacob Davis appeared in Burke Co., NC records ca 1840 and 1841. I’m pretty sure it’s not our Jacob. Ours was in Blount Co., TN then. Furthermore, the section of Burke where our Davises resided had become Yancey County by then.

On 24 Oct 1840, James Carver sold Jacob Davis 100 acres in Blount Co., TN bordering Jacob Davis and Nathan Rose (Jacob’s nephew). James Carver signed with a mark. Witnesses were Wm Henry and Jonathan Hill. (Blount Co., TN Deed Book R, pp. 15-16.)

On 12 Jun 1841, Reuben Carver made a deed to Jacob Davis in Blount Co., TN for $33 for land on Cades Cove being one half of a tract formerly of Thomas Carver that he gave to Nancy Briant. No acreage was listed. Reuben signed with a mark. Witnesses were Moses Y. Burchfield and Thomas Davis (Jacob’s brother). (Blount Co., TN Deed Book R, pp. 33-34.)

On 11 Oct 1841, Reuben Carver and Alfred Burton Carver made a deed to Jacob Davis for $300 for 52 acres. The land joined Thomas Davis and includes the place where Wilson Sherrill then resided. Deed was signed by Reuben Carver and Alfred B. Carver. Witnesses were J. W. Slaughter and James Carver. (Blount Co., TN Deed Book T, pp. 119-120.)

On 27 Aug 1842 Jacob Davis made a deed to William Deaver for $325 for land in Cades Cove being 68 acres. Jacob Davis signed with a mark. Witnesses were Robert Shields and Joseph Thurman. (Blount Co., TN Deed Book S, pp. 211-212.)

In Blount Co., TN Court on 6 Feb 1843, a settlement of the estate of James Sparks deceased was filed. Moses Y. Burchfield and Amanda Sparks were administrators. Vouchers were paid to several including Jacob Davis $104.72, Nathan Rose for $11.32 Dave Carpenter for $5.00, Thomas Davis for $8.00. This doesn’t meant those paid were heirs to the estate, but were probably owed money on unpaid notes (loans) or had done some service toward the settling of the estate which expenses were paid. Jacob Davis and Thomas Davis are brothers. Nathan Rose is their nephew. David Carpenter is their 1^st cousin.

On 30 Dec 1843 Isaac Heart made a deed to Jacob Davis, both of Blount Co., TN, for $400 for 80 acres on Abrahams Creek in Cades Cove. Isaac Heart signed with a mark. Witnesses were S. C. Murphy and Moses Y. Burchfield. (Blount Co., TN Deed Book T, pp. 92-93.)

On 25 Jan 1845, William Dever deeded land to Jacob Davis for $284, being in Cades Cove, 88 acres. William Dever signed. Witnesses were T. J. Dever and John Fraysher. (Blount Co., TN Deed Book S, p. 317.)

On 6 Apr 1846, Jacob Davis presented a wolf scalp to the Blount Co., TN Court and was paid $3.

On 29 Mar 1847, Moses Y. Burchfield of the first part, made a deed to William Deaver of the second part, and Jacob Davis and Robert Burchfield of the third part, for various livestock. Jacob Davis and Robert Burchfield were security (i.e. cosigners). Moses Y. Burchfield signed. Jacob Davis made his mark. William Deaver signed. Witnesses were Danl D. Foute and Russell Gregory. Blount Co., TN Deed Book U, pp. 232-234.)

Robert Burchfield was the father-in-law of Thomas Davis, Jacob’s brother. Moses was Robert’s son. William Deaver isn’t related as far as I’m aware.

On 1 Nov 1847, William Coleburn and Wyly P. Wright, two witnesses to the Will of Phillip Myers, deceased, came into Blount County court and presented the Will. Elizabeth Davis and Jacob Davis also appeared as executors and qualified. (Blount Co., TN Court Minutes Apr 1843-Feb 1851, p. 377.)

I’m not sure who the above are. If this is our Jacob Davis, who then is Elizabeth Davis and why was she executor of Phillip Myers’ Will? I checked the 1850 census and found an Elizabeth Myers widow, and her oldest son was Jacob Myers, 26. William Coleburn was two houses away, so my first thought was that the above court record contains a “typo” and should say Elizabeth Myers and Jacob Myers instead of Davis, though it does clearly says Davis in both cases in the court record. However, there were several other instances of court records pertaining to the estate that explicitly referred to her as Davis as late as 1859. I don’t know who they are. I’ve seen online trees that list Phillip Myers wife as Elizabeth Davis born 1801 Rowan Co., NC, died 1879 Blount Co., TN. If her maiden name was Davis, but married name Myers, why was she referred to as Davis in the 1840s and 1850s? I’m not sure what the answer is, but it seems to me that regardless of the answer, she is not connected to our Davis family.

On 2 Nov 1847, Jacob Davis (no residence listed) deeded land to S. W. Ferell (or Fezell) in Blount Co., TN for $300 for 48 acres bordering Thomas Davis (his brother), and where “Charles Fisher once lived” and William Tiptons line. Jacob Davis signed with a mark. Witnesses were Wm Deaver and Thomas J. Deaver. Jacob Davis himself proved the deed on 2 Feb 1848. (Blount Co., TN Deed Book V, pp. 103-104.)

Presumably on the same date (2 Nov 1847), Jacob Davis deeded more land to S. W. Ferell, for $450 for 100 acres. Same witnesses. Jacob Davis proved it the same day as the prior deed. (Blount Co., TN Deed Book V, pp. 104-105.)

Again on the same date (2 Nov 1847), Jacob Davis deeded 80 acres to S. W. Ferell, this for $800. Same signature, same witnesses. (Blount Co., TN Deed Book V, pp. 102-103.)

On 4 Feb 1848, Jacob Davis and R. Gregory witnessed a deed from William Deaver to Daniel D. Foute for land in Cades Cove. (Blount Co., TN Deed Book V, p. 139.)

To Cherokee (now Graham) Co., NC 1848

On 4 Jan 1848, Henry Feezle deeded land to Jacob Davis in Cherokee Co., NC for $1200, it being three tracts of land, “lately acquired by Treaty from the Cherokee Indians.” It was patents number 691, 692 and 693 all dated 24 Dec 1844. The first tract was 286 acres in Section 64, District 9. The second tract was 166 acres in Section 64, District 9. The third tract was 147 acres in Section 65, District 9. Metes and bounds were given for all three, but there were no named land marks, probably none having been named yet. Henry Feezle signed. Witnesses were Henry Howell and Adam Dod(ge?). The deed was proven in Greene Co., TN court on the first Monday of February 1848, it being the court of record. (Cherokee Co., NC Deed Book E, pp. 188-191.)

Sometime after 4 Feb 1848, Jacob Davis moved his family from Blount Co., TN over the mountains into Cherokee Co., NC settling on the land purchased from Henry Feezle in January in what is now Graham Co., NC, Cheoah Township.

On 8 Jan 1849, Jacob Davis witnessed a deed between John Hyde of Cherokee Co., NC and Isaac Rowin (sic) of Yancey Co., NC for land in Cheoah Valley on Georges Fork. John Hyde signed the deed. Witnesses were J. W. Culberson, Jacob Davis (signed with mark) and William Rowan. (Cherokee Co., NC Deed Book D, pp. 314-315.)

Isaac and William Rowan were Jacob Davis’s nephews.

Jacob Davis’s father, William Davis, died in Yancey Co., NC in 1841, but for some reason some of his estate papers were filed in Cherokee, now Graham County, which is a good thing as they are not to be found in Yancey records. I believe the reason they were filed in Cherokee is two-fold, one, several of William’s children and grandchildren moved there, and two, Jacob Davis probably filed them in the local court house himself as he also did with some Ashe County records.

On 24 Jul 1849, the heirs of William Davis signed a Bond to their brother-in-law William Davis (Jr) (also an heir), Administrator of the estate of William Davis, Sr, agreeing that they were all entitled to $188.28 each in property and cash as their share of the estate. Those named:

Nancy Burleson, Elisabeth Vance, John Davis, Jacob Davis, Thomas Davis, Margaret Wise, Franky Burleson and Rachel Davis. Those who signed were John Vance (his mark), John Davis (his mark), Wilson Burleson, Nancy Burleson (her mark), and Margaret Wise (her mark). Witnesses were B. Wise, G. W. Davis, and Tilman Blalock.

John Vance was husband of Elizabeth. Wilson Burleson was husband of Franky. I’m not sure who B. Wise, the witness was. G. W. Davis was son of William Davis Jr. Tilman Blalock was a neighbor and not related as far as I’m aware.

On 12 Sep 1849 Jacob Davis attested that he received his full share of the estate of William Davis, Deceased, from William Davis, Administrator. Jacob Davis signed with a mark. Miles Davis witnessed. (Graham Co., NC Estate Papers. William Davis 1849.)

William Davis, the administrator, was Jacob’s brother-in-law. Miles Davis was William’s brother.

They are listed in Cherokee on the 1850 census a few houses from niece Rebecca Rowan Rose and husband Nathan and their family. Jacob’s cousin William Carpenter was residing with them. He would soon marry Jacob’s daughter Margaret.

1850 Census, Cherokee Co., NC, House 843, Family 843

In 1851, Susanna’s father Jonathan Miller made his Will in Ashe Co., NC naming his heirs including his daughter Susanna wife of Jacob Davis.

On 6 Sep 1851, Jacob Davis of Cherokee Co., NC made a deed with Wiley Thomas of Ashe Co., NC for 200 acres for $150. The land was on the Head of Mill Creek. This appears to be the same land deeded to Jacob Davis on 28 Oct 1835 by the Mathias Carpenter heirs. Jacob Davis signed with a mark. Witnesses were G. W. Davis and J. T. Davis. (Ashe Co., NC Deed Book Q*, p. 555.) (The deed book number/name is not given on the microfilm. It starts with the index and does not include the cover or title pages. The next book on the roll is Deed Book R, so I’m assuming this one is Q.)

G. W. Davis is Jacob’s nephew. J. T. Davis is probably his son Isaac T. Davis.

On 12 Nov 1851, Jacob Davis 208 acre tract of land, being Tract 67 in District 9 was valued at $41.60. On 3 Jan 1852, Jacob Davis assigned the above certificate over to Isaac T. Davis. He signed with a mark. Witnesses were Abra. Taylor and William Carpenter. On 3 Aug 1859, I. T. Davis, assignee of Jacob Davis, paid $5.29 ½ on Tract number 67 in District 9, from the 1852 land sale. This land was granted to Isaac T. Davis on 16 Feb 1885. Not sure why such a long delay between entry and grant. It appears the tract was originally surveyed for James Colvard in the 1830s. (Cherokee Co., NC Land Warrants)

On 30 May 1853, Jacob Davis entered 300 acres on Jarrett’s Creek. Warrant was issued on 13 Jun 1853 (# 838).

On 13 Jun 1853, Jacob Davis entered a 640 acre tract on Secrises Creek in District 9. A land warrant was issued to him on 30 Aug 1853. (Cherokee Co., NC Land Records.)

On 17 Nov 1854, a survey was made for 640 acres, being Warrant 1702, for Wm Cruise, J. S. Wright, Caleb Winfrey, Ute Sherrill, Michael Sherrill, Jacob Davis, Isaac Thos Davis & Wm Carpenter. The land was on the water of Secrises? Creek (Secrets Creek?). This appears to be the same land Jacob Davis entered on 13 Jun 1853. Why it was a joint survey with the others is unclear, unless they all went in on it together in order to be able to afford it. Or perhaps they all wanted that land and decided to split it. I should note that William Cruise is my distant uncle, a son in-law of Caleb Winfrey, my ancestor. James S. Wright, also Winfrey’s son-in-law, is also my ancestor. They are not related to the Davis family at all as far as I’m aware. Ute Sherrill and Michael Sherrill are brothers. Michael was Jacob Davis’s son-in-law. Isaac Thomas Davis is Jacob’s brother (or possibly his son Isaac Thomas Davis), and William Carpenter is Jacob’s 1^st cousin, once removed, soon to be another son-in-law. (Cherokee Co., NC Land Warrants.)

On 28 Dec 1854, Jacob Davis entered 100 acres adjoining A. Wiggins and his own corner. Land Warrant was issued to him on 9 Feb 1855. (Cherokee Co., NC Land Records.) The survey was dated 3 May 1855 with W. H. Davis and Wilson Carpenter as chain bearers. This land was granted to Jacob Davis on 9 Dec 1869. (Cherokee Co., NC Land Warrants.)

W. H. Davis was Jacob’s son. Wilson Carpenter was Jacob’s 1^st cousin, once removed, son of David Carpenter.

On 11 Feb 1858, Caleb Winfrey assigned to Jacob Davis land he’d entered on Talulah Creek being 50 acres. On the same date, James S. Wright assigned to Jacob Davis another 50 acres that joined the Winfrey tract. (Cherokee Co., NC Land Warrants.)

They are still in Cherokee for the 1860 census. This particular census taker went above and beyond by recording the full birth places of each person which is quite helpful. Jacob’s sister Rachel Davis Davis (wife of William Davis) was listed nearby as was their nephew Alfred Vaughn (son of Elizabeth Davis and William Vaughn).

1860 Census, Cherokee Co., NC, Cheoah District, Fort Montgomery PO, House 719, Family 719

On 31 Sep 1867, M. L. Brittain deeded land to Jacob Davis for $12 for a tract of land in District 9. No acreage was given, but it must be small considering the price. Signed by M. L. Brittain and witnessed by N. G. Davis* and J. M. Davis. (Cherokee Co., NC Deed Book L, p. 72.)

The above deed is from a typed transcription. “N. G. Davis” is listed that way in the witness section but as “N. T. Davis” in the court section where he proved the deed on 3 Aug 1869. It is probably Jacob’s son Marion Taylor Davis. J. M. Davis is Jacob’s son Jonathan Miller Davis.

In July 1867 Cherokee County court, the case of Eliza Davis vs. Heirs at Law of Harvey Davis was brought. The court ordered J. W. Cooper, Wm Holloway, and Jacob Davis, freeholders, to be commissioners to lay off to partition one years support (presumably for widow Eliza). (Cherokee Co., NC Court Minutes 1865-1868.)

Harvey Davis was Jacob’s nephew, son of his sister Rachel Davis Davis.

On 6 Sep 1869 a deed was made between Calvin C. West, Sheriff of Cherokee Co., NC to William Johnson of Buncombe Co., NC. The deed relates to a court action of William Johnson against William H. Thomas for the sum of $13,198.48 of which some has already been recovered. However, to settle the remainder, lands of William H. Thomas had to be sold at public auction. Many tracts of land were listed including these two of interest to us:

6 - Tract where Westly Gibson lives on Cheoah, containing 50 acres more or less.

31 - Tract in District number eight where Jacob Davis now lives, containing one hundred and forty acres.

50 tracts in all were listed. (Cherokee Co., NC Deed Book L, pp. 114-119.)

Wesley Gibson is Jacob Davis’s son-in-law. It is interesting that Jacob Davis lost land in this case. I’m not sure why that is. Perhaps it was land he wasn’t actually living on but had purchased from William H. Thomas but hadn’t paid for yet.

On 28 Dec 1869, Jacob Davis made his Will in Cherokee Co., NC naming his heirs. He didn’t die until three years later. (See below for more.)

Jacob and family are on the 1870 census in Cherokee. Their son Marion and his new wife were with them, having married in February. Jacob and Susanna’s grand daughter Margaret Deaver was also with them. Both of her parents had died before then.

1870 Census, Cherokee Co., NC, Cheoah Township, Valley Town PO, House 174, Family 174

* Married Feb.

In 1872 the section of Cherokee County where the family resided became Graham County.

On 14 Sep 1872, Abram Wiggins and wife Margaret Wiggins made a deed of gift of land to the Baptist Church in the Valley of Cheoah where the church house already stood. Trustees of the church were Jacob Davis, Thomas Ammons Sr and William Carpenter. (Graham Co., NC Deed Book B, p. 94.)

Jacob Davis died on 7 Feb 1873 in Graham Co., NC. He is buried at the Phillips-Sherrill Cemetery. The marker for both he and his wife Susanna is much newer than any original stone they may have had. I don't know who placed it or when, but it was at least a couple of generations after their deaths. I also don't know if it replaced an old stone. Oddly, the newer stone was lost for a number of years, a tree having grown up around it and covered it over. A storm knocked down the tree exposing the stone again. I think that happened after I visited the cemetery in the early 1990s.

A hand made copy of Jacob’s Will is filed in Cherokee Co., NC Will Book G, p. 176. The original Will and another hand made copy of it are filed in Graham Co., NC original Wills.

 

The last Will and Testament of Jacob Davis of Cherokee County, North Carolina.

 

In the name of God, Amen. I Jacob Davis of the County and State aforesaid, being mindful of the uncertainty of this natural life and also, of sound mind and disposing memory and desirous to make such a disposition of my earthly effects, with which it has pleased a gracious God to bless, that after my death, no complaint may be made about the same, do make and publish and declare this my Last Will and Testament.

 

First I will my body to the dust and my soul to the God who gave it.

 

Second: It is my will and desire that all my just debts shall be paid, after paying my Doctor Bill, burial expenses and all other expenses incident thereto.

 

Third: To my Grand Children, Nancy M, Mary A, and Margaret M, children of my daughter Celey L. Deaver, in addition to advancements made I give and bequeath to them the sum of Five Dollars each and no more to Nancy M and Mary A. to Margaret M. in addition, I give one feather-bed and its necessary furniture, one cow and calf and two head of sheep.

 

Fourth: To my son Isaac T. I will and bequeath one horse, bridal and saddle, one cow and calf, also Two Hundred and eight acres of land, lying and being in said County on Slay-bacon Creek.

 

Fifth: To my daughter Frances M Sherrill, in addition to advancements made to her, I will and bequeath, one side saddle, also the One-third part of my Interest in three general mountain tracts of land, two of said tracts lying on Bear Creek, Waters of Tallula, the other lying on Mountain Town Creek.

 

Sixth: To my daughter, Mary M Gibson, in addition to advancements made to her I give and bequeath one third of the last aforesaid tracts of land.

 

Seventh: To my daughter Margaret M Carpenter, in addition to advancements made to her, I give and bequeath to her one other third of the last aforesaid tracts of land.

 

Eight: To my sons Jonathan M and Marion T. who are now with me, and who have not received anything from me, heretofore. I give and bequeath to them my home place, consisting of three tracts of land, containing, four hundred and ninety nine acres, more or less, lying on Sweetwater Creek, also one mountain tract containing one hundred acres, and adjoining, also all my farming tools, Black smith tools & (c. Cards?) and tools to be equally divided between them according to value as they agree between themselves or by friends chosen by them.

 

Ninth: To my daughter Rachel E, I give and bequeath two tracts of land on the waters of Tallula Creek, containing fifty acres each, one bought of James S Wright, the other of Caleb Winfrey, also the undivided half of a tract of land containing sixty acres, bought of James S Wright on the waters of Tallula Creek, and adjoining the other two, also one horse, bridal and saddle, one feather bed and its necessary furniture, one cow and calf and two ewes and lambs.

 

Tenth: To my daughters Rachel E, Frances M Sherrill, Mary M Gibson and Margaret M Carpenter, after deducting the specific legacies, to wit; Beds and their necessary furniture. I give and bequeath the remainder of my house hold and kitchen furniture;

 

Eleventh: It is my will and desire, after paying to my children the specific legacies, to wit; the cows and calves, ewes and lambs, the horses, Bridals and saddles as aforesaid mentioned, that the remainder of my personal property, not otherwise disposed in this my said Will, shall be sold and their proceeds equally divided between my children and their children, should they die, leaving any except the children of my daughter, Cely L Deaver; to wit; Nancy M, Mary A and Margaret M. And further should I die seized and possessed of any other lands and interest in lands, not otherwise disposed, it is my will and desire that said lands and interest in lands be equally divided as least above mentioned with the like exceptions. And further it is my will and desire, shall I die, leaving my beloved wife Susanna, who has been partner of my joys and sorrows through a long life and who has contributed greatly in acquiring property I now possess, that my sons Jonathan M and Marion T, shall provide a home and support for her during her life free of charge to anyone else but themselves.

 

Twelfth. In conclusion, whereas it is my desire that each and every particular in this my aforesaid Will, may be carried out in good faith, and that all differences between my children, after my death may be quieted and that no suit of law may be instituted by them. I do hereby enjoin upon the administration, whom the law may appoint to use his best efforts in the premises and in all disputes that may arise for the purpose of settling the same amicable and with as little cast as possible, he submit the same to mutual friends. I hereby declare this to be my last Will, and revoking all others by me made. In witness whereof I hereunto set my hand and seal in the presence of. This the Twenty eighth day of December in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and sixty nine.

                                                                                            Signed:            Jacob Davis (x)

                                                                                                                       Susanna Davis (x)

Witnesses:

N M E Slaughter

Joseph J Colvard

W F Cooper

 

State of North Carolina Graham County. Office of Judge of Probate. It appearing to the satisfaction of the Court here, that Jacob Davis departed this life the 7th day of February AD 1873 having published a last will and testament and it further appearing that the last Will and Testament contains no provisions for its execution and the said Will and Testament having been probated according to law on the Testimony of the subscribing witnesses thereto and it appearing satisfactory to the devisees and Legacies and no other person coming to question it. It is adjudged and decreed that letters of Administration with the Last Will and Testament shall be and is hereby given to Susanna Davis, William Carpenter and N M E Slaughter upon the filing of a Bond for the sum on One Thousand Dollars ($1000.00). And this Letter shall authorize them to enter in and take possession of all such property that may be found belonging to the office according to Law.

 

Given under my hand and private seal here being no public seal for said County at Office near Robbinsville this 7th day of March AD 1873.

                                                                                            John G Tatham

                                                                                            Probate Judge

Registered by the undersigned May 9th 1892.

                                                                               W F Manney

                                                                               Register of Deeds.

The Will is most helpful in proving Jacob Davis’s family.

The estate papers are on file in Graham Co., NC and also contain lists of heirs.

In 1873, in Mitchell Co., NC a court case was filed between A. D. Childs and the Estate of Samuel Carpenter regarding some land. A summons was issued dated 4 Oct 1873 to heirs of Samuel Carpenter that were living in Cherokee Co., NC at the time, or so they thought, apparently not knowing about the new Graham County which was formed the year before. The summons was for the Sheriff of Cherokee County to issue to Jacob Davis, Alfred Carpenter, Nancy Carpenter, Martin Singleton and Mary M. Singleton. The Cherokee County sheriff rightly replied that none of those lived in his county and further that Jacob Davis had died in Graham County “last winter.” (Mitchell Co., NC Estates, Samuel Carpenter.)

The first thing to note is that Jacob Davis was not in anyway an heir of Samuel Carpenter, his 1^st cousin. However, being summoned only meant he may have had information on the land in question, not that he was necessarily an heir. Alfred Carpenter (wife Nancy) and Mary Singleton (husband Martin) were children of Samuel Carpenter who had moved to Cherokee (now Graham) Co., NC in the 1860s.

On 9 Dec 1874, Jacob Davis received a state land grant of 640 acres in District 9, being Entry number 1702 (mentioned earlier). He was already dead by this time, but that’s not usual for land grants to come in posthumously.

Susanna Miller Davis was listed on the 1880 census in Graham Co., NC with her son Taylor.

1880 Census, Graham Co., NC, Cheowah Township, House 49, Family 49

Susanna Miller Davis died ca Aug 1895 in Graham Co., NC. This is per The Davis Family Record which did not cite a source for that date.

The might be buried together at the Phillips-Sherrill Cemetery, though the marker there is a new one placed a very long time after deaths, perhaps only on the assumption they are buried there. It is inscribed:

In Memory Of

Jacob Davis

             1801 - 1873

             Susanna Miller

             1808 - 1895

             Wed July 4, 1825

             Jefferson, N.C.

Someone also placed an even newer marker there listing the entire family. You can view that at their findagrave.com entry.

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Children

We are fortunate that the family of Jacob and Susanna Miller Davis is well documented via his 1869 Will and two Bible records, namely William Carpenter’s and Marion Taylor Davis’s.

They had 12 children, one of whom never married (Isaac), and two who died as children (Nancy and Sarah) and one who died as a teen (Mathias). Another daughter (Celia) died in her early 20s leaving three small children. A son (William) was killed in the Civil War. Though married, he left no children.

 

1.         Celia Lucinda Davis (1827-c1856) m Thomas Jefferson Deaver.

2.         Isaac Thomas Davis (1828-1915). Never married. Blind.

3.         Frances Malinda Davis (1830-1909) m Michael Simpson Sherrill.

4.         Mary Matilda Davis (1832-1896) m Wesley Gibson.

5.         Margaret Ann Davis (1835-1927) m William Carpenter. My ancestors.

6.         William Harrison Davis (1837-1863) m Nancy E. Medlin.

7.         Nancy Adeline Davis (1839-bef 1840). Died young.

8.         Sarah Jane Davis (1841-bef 1850). Died young.

9.         Jonathan Miller Davis (1844-1909) m Julia Ann Elizabeth Shepherd.

10.       Mathias W. Davis (1846-aft 1860).

11.       Marion Taylor Davis (1848-1901) m Rebecca Jane Rice.

12.       Rachel E. Davis (1851-1926) m Thomas J. Ammons.

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Celia Lucinda Davis was born 9 Feb 1827 per the William Carpenter Family Bible. I’m not aware of anyone whom she may have been named after. She was probably born in Burke Co., NC (later Yancey). She appears to be home with her parents for the 1830 census, aged 0-4 (1825/1830) and home with them in 1840 aged 10-14 (1825/1830).

She married Thomas Jefferson Deaver on 15 Aug 1844 (per Marion Taylor Family Bible) in Blount Co., TN.

He was born ca 1823/24 in Blount Co., TN (per 1860 census). Others list him as a son of William Deaver and Elizabeth Mackey. This fits, but I don’t know what the proof is.

The Deavers moved to Cherokee Co., NC in the late 1840s as did Celia’s parents.

They are listed on the 1850 census three houses from his likely parents, William and Elizabeth, and next door to brother-in-law Jason Hyde and three houses from her parents Jacob and Susanna Davis.

1850 Census, Cherokee Co., NC, House 840, Family 840

Cecelia Lucinda Davis Deaver died on 15 Sep 1856 in Cherokee (now Graham) Co., NC, aged 29.

Thomas J. Deaver remarried ca 1857 to Susan Angeline Kirkland in Cherokee (now Graham) Co., NC.

They are listed on the 1860 census in Cherokee Co., NC.

1860 Census, Cherokee Co., NC, Cheoah District, Fort Montgomery PO, House 743, Family 743

During the Civil War, Thomas Jefferson Deaver joined the Union side and died at Knoxville, TN on 10 Jan 1865 and is buried at the Knoxville National Cemetery. I haven’t been able to find any service records for him thus far. His stone says “3165 Jefferson Deaver U. S. Soldier.”

His widow Susan remarried on 20 Dec 1867 in Cherokee Co., NC to John Hampton Millsaps. They were married by William Deaver, Justice of the Peace. They are listed on the 1870 census in Cherokee Co., NC and in 1880 and 1900 in Graham Co., NC. He died before 1910. She was listed on the 1910 census in Graham and not found in 1920, though supposedly still alive until 1925. She’s buried at the Upper Yellow Creek Cemetery.

Susan and Thomas Deaver had two children together. She and her 2^nd husband had none.

Three of Celia’s four children were named in Jacob Davis’s Will of 1869. The oldest, Susan E. Deaver (c1846) apparently died young.

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Isaac Thomas Davis was born 7 Sep 1828 per the William Carpenter Family Bible. His death certificate gives 27 Sep 1827. His 1900 census entry gives Sep 1829. His tombstone gives 7 Sep 1830. I don’t know which of these is the most accurate, though I’m using the one from the Bible record. He was born in Burke (later Yancey) Co., NC as proven by his 1860 census entry. He was probably named, in part, for his uncle Thomas Davis. I don’t know where “Isaac” comes from. He was generally referred to as Thomas, or Isaac T., though on some records he’s simply I. T. Davis, often misread as J. T. Davis.

He appears to be home with his parents for the 1830 census, aged 0-4 (1825/1830) and home with them in 1840 aged 15-19 (1820/1825) which is too old of course, but it is probably him anyway.

He is with them on the 1850 census, “Thomas,” age 23. He is still home in 1860 also, listed as “Isaac T.” age 32, born Yancy (sic) Co., NC. He is also listed as blind.

He is named in his father’s 1869 Will as son “Isaac T.”

I did not find him on the 1870 census. He is not listed with his parents in Cherokee Co., NC. He would have been about 31 or 32 then. I checked for him elsewhere but never found him.

He was “back” in Graham by April 1875 for on that date, his sister Mary M. Gibson and her husband Wesley Gibson, then residents of Giles Co., TN made him their attorney regarding settling their part of the estate of their father Jacob Davis. (Graham Co., NC Deed Book A, pp. 76-77.)

He is listed on the 1880 census in Graham Co., NC with his brother Miller Davis, listed as “Thomas” age 52, single. There is no check mark in the Blind column, but I assume he was still blind.

He was still with his brother Miller Davis for the 1900 census, listed as “Thomas” born Sep 1829, age 70, single. There was no column on this census for blindness, but the census taker wrote a “B” after the last column, which might be an indication, or perhaps it’s something else.

He is on the 1910 census with his nephew Commodore Davis (son of Miller). Thomas is listed as blind on this census.

1910 Census, Graham Co., NC, Cheoah Township, House 2, Family 2

Isaac Thomas Davis died on 16 Jan 1915 in Graham Co., NC at the age of 86. He’s buried at Old Mother Cemetery in Robbinsville.

Thomas never married.

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Frances Malinda Davis was born 4 Aug 1830 per the William Carpenter Family Bible. She was born in Ashe Co., NC per her 1860 census entry. She was undoubtedly named, in part, for her paternal grandmother Frances Carpenter Davis. I don’t know where “Malinda” came from.

She appears to be with her parents for the 1840 census aged 10-14 (1825/1830).

On 5 Dec 1847, “Franky Davis” married Michael Sherrill in Blount Co., TN. They were married by William Deaver, Justice of the Peace. The Marion Taylor Davis Family Bible gives her marriage date as 19 Dec 1847. If that is more accurate, then the 5 Dec 1847 date might be the date a license was issued instead of the actual marriage.

Michael Simpson Sherrill was born Apr 1828 per his tombstone, or Apr 1826 per his 1900 census entry. He was born in Haywood Co., NC per his 1860 census entry, or Macon Co., NC per his Civil War enlistment papers. I don’t know who his parents are for sure, but other researchers show him as a son of Joseph Sherrill (1782-1854). That could be correct, but I have no solid proof of it yet. Joseph had two sons under 5 (1825/30) with him in 1830 Macon Co., NC, so that fits. In 1840 Joseph is in Blount Co., TN right next to Jacob Davis, and still had two sons the right age for one to be Michael, so that also fits. Joseph’s wife was named Sarah.

Michael and family moved to Cherokee Co., NC with the Davises and are listed next to her parents on the 1850 census.

1850 Census, Cherokee Co., NC, House 842, Family 842

They are on the 1860 census in Cherokee Co., NC next door to my ancestors Charles N. George and wife Celia Smith George who lived on Talulah (alias Tulula) Creek. They are also next to Jane Reagan Sherrill, 38, who was a widow of Ute Sherrill, who might be Michael’s older brother.

1860 Census, Cherokee Co., NC, Cheoah District, Fort Montgomery PO, House 826, Family 826

* Initial overwritten, not sure what it says.

I don’t know who Lucius B. Rogers is. It’s interesting that widow Jane Sherrill next door has Elizabeth Rogers 28 with her, also born Macon Co., NC.

Michael S. Sherrill served during the Civil War in Company D, 25^th North Carolina Infantry as a Private, enlisting 15 Aug 1861. He made Corporal on 30 Mar 1862. He was wounded 30 Mar 1864. He deserted ca 1 Feb 1865 and was reduced in rank.

His enlistment papers say he was born in Macon Co. NC, and was 6'2.

They are on the 1870 census in Cherokee Co., NC.

1870 Census, Cherokee Co, NC, Cheoah Township, Valley Town PO, House 132, Family 132

They are in Graham Co., NC for the 1880 census.

1880 Census, Graham Co., NC, Cheowah Township, House 242, Family 242

They are on the 1900 census in Graham.

1900 Census, Graham Co., NC, Cheoah Township, House 117, Family 118

Michael S. Sherrill died on 10 Jan 1909 at the age of 80 in Graham Co., NC. Frances Malinda Davis Sherrill died two months later on 5 Mar 1909 aged 78. They are buried at the Phillips-Sherrill Cemetery in Graham Co., NC.

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Mary Matilda Davis was born 27 Dec 1832 per the William Carpenter Family Bible. She may have been named, in part, after her aunts Mary “Polly” Davis Browning and Mary Miller Weaver. I don’t know where “Matilda” might have come from. She was born in Ashe Co., NC per her 1860 census entry.

She seems to be with her parents on the 1840 census, aged 5-9 (1830/1835). She is with them in 1850, “Mary M.” age 18, born NC.

Mary Matilda Davis married Wesley Gibson on 28 Dec 1856 (per Marion Taylor Davis Family Bible) in Cherokee (now Graham) Co., NC. Wesley Gibson was born 30 Sep 1832 (per tombstone) in Haywood Co., NC (per his 1860 census entry). He is a son of Joshua Gibson and Rachel Carringer. Wesley is with them on the 1850 census in Cherokee Co., NC as “Wesly” age 18, Farmer.

Wesley and Mary are on the 1860 census in Cherokee Co., NC next to her sister Margaret Carpenter and family. Jeptha M. Hooper was residing with them as a laborer. I don’t know if he’s related in some way. He is a son of Enos C. Hooper and Margaret (—), and a future doctor.

1860 Census, Cherokee Co., NC, Stecoa District, Stecoa PO, House 879, Family 879

Wesley Gibson served during the Civil War, enlisting in Company D, 25^th North Carolina Infantry on 18 Mar 1862. He was captured around 30 Jul 1864 and spend time at the POW camp at Point Lookout, Maryland.

Mary M. Gibson was named in her father’s 1869 Will. Her husband Wesley Gibson was named in the subsequent estate papers.

They are on the 1870 census in Cherokee Co., NC.

1870 Census, Cherokee Co, NC, Cheoah Township, Valley Town PO, House 84, Family 84

The Gibsons moved to Giles Co., TN by ca 1873. That is south of Nashville and borders the northern Alabama state line. I don’t know what drew them there. Perhaps some of his relatives lived there already.

In April 1875, Wesley Gibson and wife Mary M. Gibson of Giles Co., TN made Isaac T. Davis of Graham Co., NC their attorney in regards to her father Jacob Davis’s estate. (Graham Co., NC Deed Book A, pp. 76-77.)

They are listed on the 1880 census in Giles Co., TN.

1880 Census, Giles Co., TN, Eighteenth Civil District, House 251, Family 251

Mary Matilda Davis Gibson died on 10 Jul 1896 (I don’t know the source for this date) in Giles Co., TN. She has a findagrave.com entry at Scotts Hill Cemetery but there is no photo of a stone, so perhaps she doesn’t have one. Her husband is buried there with a nice marker.

I was unable to find Wesley Gibson on the 1900 census.

He remarried ca 1900/01, presumably in Giles Co., TN to Ann —, born ca 1851/52 in TN. This was her 3^rd marriage per their 1910 census entry. She had no children at all per that same census.

1910 Census, Giles Co., TN, 18 District Civil, House 104, Family 106

Wesley Gibson died on 11 Apr 1918 per his tombstone, presumably in Giles Co., TN. He is buried at Scotts Hill Cemetery with a nice marker.

I wasn’t able to find any additional information on his second wife, Ann.

Wesley and Mary Matilda had eight known children. I doubt he and his 2^nd wife had any children.

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Margaret Ann Davis was born 30 Jan 1835 per the William Carpenter Family Bible and her tombstone. She was probably named, in part, after her grandmother Margaret Carpenter Miller (1784) not to mention two aunts and one great aunt also named Margaret. She was born in Ashe Co., NC per her 1860 census entry.

She seems to be home with her parents for the 1840 census aged 5-9 (1830/1835). She was home with them in 1850, “Margaret A.” age 16, born NC. Her future husband William Carpenter was also residing with the family then.

She married William Carpenter on 1 Dec 1855 (per her family Bible record) in Cherokee (now Graham) Co., NC .

They are my 3^rd Great Grandparents. She their own page for more information.

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William Harrison Davis was born 18 Jan 1837 per the William Carpenter Family Bible. He may have been named, in part, after his grandfather William Davis, and possibly in part for General William Henry Harrison who ran for President in 1836 (he didn’t win that one, but he did win in 1840). Harrison Davis was born in Ashe Co., NC per his 1860 census entry.

He seems to be with his parents for the 1840 census age under 5 (1835/1840), and he was home with them in 1850, “William H.” age 13, born NC.

He married Nancy E. Medlin on 20 Nov 1859 (per Marion Taylor Davis Family Bible) in Cherokee (now Graham) Co., NC. Nancy was born Nov 1839 (per 1900 census) in Macon Co., NC (per 1860 census), a daughter of Louis (or Lewis) Medlin and Jane Welch. Her parents are proven by her death certificate and supported by their 1850 census entry in Cherokee Co., NC where she was listed as “Nancy,” age 11, born NC.

Harrison and Nancy are on the 1860 census in Cherokee a few houses from his sister Frances Davis Sherrill.

1860 Census, Cherokee Co., NC, Cheoah District, Fort Montgomery PO, House 830, Family 830

For the Civil War, on 28 Mar 1862, William H. Davis enlisted in Company D, 25^th Regiment, North Carolina Troops as a Private aged 24. He was wounded through the thigh at Fredericksburg, VA on 13 Dec 1862. The leg had to be amputated. He died in the hospital in Lynchburg, VA several weeks later on 7 Jan 1863 of his wounds and pneumonia. He is presumably buried somewhere in that vicinity.

He was 25 when he died. He and Nancy had no children, or none to survive.

Nancy E. Medlin Davis remarried on 8 Jul 1866 in Macon Co., NC to John Love Sawyer. They were married as “Nancy Davis” and “John Sawyer” by J. F. Mashburn, JP.

John Love Sawyer was born 29 May 1833 in Macon Co., NC, a son of Joel Sawyer and Esther Thompson. John Sawyer had married before, on 2 Jul 1855 in Macon, to Nancy Louisa Welch who died ca 1865.

John and Nancy are on the 1870 census in Macon Co., NC, the 1880 census in Graham Co., NC, and the 1900 census in Swain Co., NC. John died 7 Mar 1903 in Swain Co., NC and is buried at Lauada Cemetery. Nancy is on the 1910 census in Swain with her son Lewis. I didn’t find her in 1920. She died on 25 Oct 1927 in Bryson City, Swain Co., NC and is also buried at Lauada.

Nancy had no children with William Harrison Davis. She had four with John L. Sawyer (Joel, Sarah, Lewis and Frances). John Sawyer had two with his first wife (George and Amanda).

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Nancy Adeline Davis was born 28 Jun 1839 per the William Carpenter Family Bible. She may have been named, in part, for her paternal aunt Nancy Davis Burleson (1795) and her maternal aunt Nancy Miller (1819).

I don’t know for sure where she was born, but I suspect it was after the move to Blount Co., TN, so born there. She also died there before the 1840 census for there was no one her age with her parents on that census.

Unfortunately none of the Bible records we have recorded the actual date of her death. That could mean she died the same day she was born.

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Sarah Jane Davis was born 4 Dec 1841 per the William Carpenter Family Bible. She may have been named, in part, for her paternal aunt Sarah Davis Rowan (c1784) and her maternal aunt Sarah Miller Miller (c1812).

She was very likely born in Blount Co., TN.

She died before the 1850 census, perhaps well before then. Unfortunately none of the Bible records we have recorded the actual date of her death. That could mean she died the same day she was born.

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Jonathan Miller Davis was born 5 Jul 1844 per the William Carpenter Family Bible and his tombstone. He was born in Blount Co., TN (per 1860 census). He was obviously named for his maternal grandfather Jonathan Miller (1776-1854).

He was listed on the 1850 census with his parents, “Johnathan” age 7, born TN. He was still with them for the 1860 census, “Jonathan M.” age 16, born “Blunt Co TN.”

For the Civil War he enlisted at age 17 on 28 Dec 1861 into Company D, 25^th Regiment, NC Troops as a Private. He was wounded in the hand at King’s School House, VA on 25 Jun 1862. His Confederate records say he deserted Jan/Feb 1865 and “went over to the enemy.” He took the Oath of Allegiance to the United States at Louisville, KY on 3 Apr 1865.

Although many switched sides during the Civil War, it sometimes caused serious family strife, especially considering his brother William Harrison Davis was killed in action on the Confederate side, and brother Mathias may also have died in the War on the Confederate side. Their father Jacob Davis did mention something in his 1869 Will about his children settling their differences. He might have been referring to this.

On 19 Dec 1866, “Miller Davis” married “Julia Shepherd” in Cherokee Co., NC. They were married by S. P. Sherrill, JP. Their marriage is also listed in his brother Marion Taylor Davis’s Family Bible, but with the incomplete date of “Dec 1866.”

Julia Ann Elizabeth Shepherd was born 5 Dec 1844 in Macon Co., NC, a child of Thomas J. Shepherd and Mary T. Duvall. She was with her parents on the 1850 census in Macon Co., NC, “Julian E.” age 6, born Macon, and with them in 1860 Macon as “July A. E.” 15, born Macon. Her family moved to Cherokee (now Graham) Co., NC in the 1860s.

Miller and family are listed on the 1870 census next to his parents in Cherokee Co., NC. Julia’s family are listed also, but not nearby.

1870 Census, Cherokee Co, NC, Cheoah Township, Valley Town PO, House 173, Family 173

They are on the 1880 census in Graham County next to brother Taylor Davis.

1880 Census, Graham Co., NC, Cheowah Township, House 48, Family 48

* This is Commodore Davis, but clearly spelled wrong here.

They are on the 1900 census in Graham County two houses from brother Taylor Davis. Their older brother Isaac Thomas Davis is residing with them.

1900 Census, Graham Co., NC, Cheoah Township, House 215, Family 216

Julia Ann Elizabeth Shepherd Davis died on 5 Nov 1905 per her tombstone or on 4 Nov 1905 per the Judson Colvard Day Book. She is buried at Old Mother Cemetery in Graham Co., NC.

Jonathan Miller Davis died on 28 Jun 1909 per his tombstone, or 29 Jun 1909 per Judson Colvard Day Book. He is buried at Old Mother Cemetery.

Miller and Julia had 12 children per her 1900 census entry. However, we’ve only identified 11 of them. She reported that 10 were still living as of 1900, and two had died by then. We know one of those who died was Frances Davis (1872-1874), leaving one unknown child who apparently died young.

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Mathias W. Davis was born 7 Oct 1846 per the William Carpenter Family Bible. He was born in Blount Co., TN (per 1860 census). He was obviously named in part for his great grandfather Mathias Carpenter. I don’t know what his “W” initial stands for.

He was listed on the 1850 census with his parents, “Mathias W.” age 5, born TN. He was still with them for the 1860 census, “Mathias W.” age 14, born Blunt (sic) Co TN.

Mathias died in the 1860s. It has been said he died, or was killed, in the Civil War but I haven’t been able to find any records of him serving. He would have been 14 when the war began in 1861, and 18 when it ended in Apr 1865, so he was certainly the right age. If there are any records, perhaps he served under his middle name, whatever that was. All of his brothers were known by their middle names, so it follows. However, I found no likely matches for him among the troop rosters of the area. It is possible he died because of the war, but not as a soldier.

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Marion Taylor Davis was born 25 Oct 1848 per the William Carpenter Family Bible and per his tombstone. He was born in Cherokee (now Graham) Co., NC per his 1860 census entry.

I don’t know for certain who he’s named for, but I would guess it’s Generals Francis Marion and Zachary Taylor, the latter of whom, by 1848, had become quite famous for his role in the Mexican American War and was running for President when Marion Taylor Davis was born.

He was with his parents for the 1850 census, “Marian T.” age 3, born NC. He was still with them in 1860, “Marion T.” age 12, born “Cherokee Co NC.”

He was named in his father’s 1869 Will as son “Marion T.” who was still at home with his parents then.

“M. T. Davis” and “B. J. Rice” were married in Cherokee (now Graham) Co., NC on 20 Feb 1870 by William Holloway, Justice of the Peace. The marriage is also recorded in Marion Taylor’s Bible with the same date. Rebecca Jane Rice was born 9 Mar 1854 in Cherokee (now Graham) Co., NC, a child of Noah W. Rice and Margaret E. (—). She was home with her parents on the 1860 census as “Jane” age 6.

Taylor and Jane were with his parents on the 1870 census in Cherokee Co., NC. The column for those married with the census year had “Feb” in them, which is indeed the month they married.

1870 Census, Cherokee Co., NC, Cheoah Township, Valley Town PO, House 174, Family 174

* Married Feb.

In 1872 the section of Cherokee County where the family resided became Graham County.

They are listed on the 1880 census in Graham Co., NC. His widowed mother is residing with them.

1880 Census, Graham Co., NC, Cheowah Township, House 49, Family 49

They are in the same place for the 1900 census.

1900 Census, Graham Co., NC, Cheoah Township, House 213, Family 215

Marion Taylor Davis died on 22 Dec 1901 in Graham Co., NC at the age of 53. He is buried at Old Mother Cemetery.

Rebecca Jane Rice Davis died on 11 Nov 1907. She is also buried at Old Mother Cemetery.

All their unmarried children were residing together on the 1910 census. A nephew and a niece were also with them. Those were children of their sister Laura J. Davis.

1910 Census, Graham Co., NC, Cheoah Township, House 34, Family 34

Taylor and Jane had twelve children, all of whom have been identified. Two died young.

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Rachel E. Davis was born 3 Mar 1851 per the William Carpenter Family Bible. She was born in Cherokee (now Graham) Co., NC per her 1860 census entry. She was probably named for her paternal aunt Rachel Davis Davis (1810-1865). I don’t know what her “E” middle initial is for, though the two most likely choices are Elizabeth or Emeline.

She was with her parents for the 1860 census, “Rachel E.” age 10. She was named in her father’s 1869 Will as “Rachel E.” She was already married by then, but he didn’t include her surname in the Will.

Rachel Davis and Thomas J. Ammons were married on 11 Aug 1869 in Cherokee (now Graham) Co., NC by Allen Ammons, Minister of the Gospel. Her brother Marion Taylor’s family bible records her marriage date as 12 Aug 1869.

Thomas J. Ammons was born 9 Aug 1849 (per his tombstone) in Cherokee (now Graham) Co., NC, a son of David C. Ammons and Nancy Avaline Rogers. He was with them on the 1850 census “Thomas J.” age 1, and in 1860, “Thomas” age 10.

They are on the 1870 census in Cherokee next to her sister Frankie Sherrill. They are listed as having been married in the census year, in August, which is correct. Thomas’s brother John Ammons is living with them.

1870 Census, Cherokee Co, NC, Cheoah Township, Valley Town PO, House 131, Family 131

* Married within census year, in Aug.

They are on the 1880 census in Graham.

1880 Census, Graham Co., NC, Cheowah Township, House 236, Family 236

They are still in Graham for the 1900 census.

1900 Census, Graham Co., NC, Cheoah Township, House 124, Family 125

The family moved to northern Texas by 1910. They are on that census in Wilbarger County which borders Oklahoma.

1910 Census, Wilbarger Co., TX, Justice Precinct 5, House 20, Family 21

* Number of children born, number still living were both blank

They are in the same place for the 1920 census.

1920 Census, Wilbarger Co., TX, Precinct 5, House 21, Family 24

Rachel E. Davis Ammons died on 7 Nov 1926 in Wilbarger Co., TX at the age of 75. Thomas J. Ammons died a month later on 8 Dec 1926 aged 77. They are buried at the Fargo Cemetery in that county.

Their death certificates are a good example of how unreliable that type of document can be regarding parents of the deceased. In both cases their youngest son was the informant, yet he didn’t know the names of either of their parents, i.e. his own grandparents. At least he put down “Don’t know” instead of a wrong name as often happened. For his mother, he did put down “Davis” for her father so that was accurate at least, though incomplete. This isn’t a personal slight against him at all, but evidence how in those days many people didn’t seem to know the actual names of their own grandparents.

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For Family Group Sheet and other notes see my database pages for Jacob Davis and Susanna Miller.

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Revised: January 2, 2026

Copyright © 1996-2026 Marvin A. Grant, Jr. All Rights Reserved.

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