Marty and Karla Grant

[Home] [What’s New?] [Books for Sale] [Christian] [Genealogy] [Search] [Support] [About] [Contact]

Osborne Jenkins (c1803-1856) and Ann (—) of Onslow Co., NC

[Jenkins Home] - [Table of Contents] - Osborne Jenkins

Jump to Children’s section | Jump to Family Group Sheet

Osborne and Ann (—) Jenkins are my 4 times Great Grandparents on my maternal side.

Osborne Jenkins was born ca 1802/1803 per his age on the 1850 census (47). The same census also shows him born in North Carolina. He was likely born in Onslow Co., NC in the area that later became Stump Sound Township.

Although I show his name as Osborne he was mostly listed as “Auza” (or variants) on records. It was apparently a nickname he used, though a very uncommon one. His name was spelled differently nearly every time it was written including these variations:

∙           Ozen

∙           Anza (probably a misread Auza)

∙           Ausborn

∙           Ousza

Stump Sound Township covered a large section of south western Onslow, though now is much smaller than it was in the 1800s. It includes part of Topsail Island and the towns of Holly Ridge and North Topsail Beach. The township’s western boundary is the county line with Pender County (still part of New Hanover until the late 1800s) including Topsail and Holly Townships.

I don’t know who Osborne’s parents were. My primary suspects are Lewis Jenkins and Sarah Beasley, followed second by John Jenkins (1770/75) as a good candidate.

Having found no probate record, deed or other record naming his parents I’ve had to use census analysis to come up with clues. It’s not an exact science but can prove helpful.

Osborne would have been around seven years old for the 1810 census. There were only four Jenkins households on that census in Onslow and two of them had an apparent son Osborne’s age, being the aforementioned Lewis and John Jenkins. Both men had one male under 10 residing with them. There is no way to know which of these, if either, is Osborne, as the 1810 census didn’t include names other than the head of household.

Osborne would have been about 17 for the 1820 census. This census is very helpful in that only Lewis Jenkins had an apparent son the right age, having one male age 16-25 (born 1794/1804) with him. John had a son aged 10-15 (1804/1810) in 1820 which is a tad too young to be Osborne, assuming his ca 1803 birth date is accurate.

Thus, based only on census analysis, it appears that Osborne Jenkins is very likely a son of Lewis and Sarah (Beasley) Jenkins, with John Jenkins being the runner-up. As noted before, census analysis is not an exact science, so this isn’t 100% conclusive. Osborne named sons John and Lewis, so that doesn’t help, though it does strongly suggest he’s closely related to both of the older men of those names.

I believe that the older Lewis and John are siblings, so regardless of which one is Osborne’s father, I think I have him in the right branch of the Jenkins family more or less.

Osborne Jenkins married Ann --- before ca 1825 in Onslow Co., NC. She is listed as Amy or Amia on at least two records, so perhaps her full name was Amelia Ann, or Ann Amelia?

I should note here that it’s entirely possible that Ann/Amy isn’t Osborne’s first wife. Going by census records it’s entirely possible he didn’t marry her until the 1830s or even the 1840s. If that’s the case, then I have no idea who his first wife might have been.

Ann was born ca 1803/04 per her age on the 1850 census (46) or ca 1809/10 per the 1860 census (50). She was born in North Carolina per both of those censuses, though I don’t know whether in Onslow County or elsewhere. I don’t know her maiden name. The death certificate of her daughter Zilpha (1922 New Hanover Co., NC) lists her as “Nancy Jenkins” under “Maiden name of mother.” While it clearly states the maiden name is to be listed here, many times the married name is listed instead on death certificates. However, it is certainly within the realm of possibility that Ann was a Jenkins also. Since this is the only record I’ve found on the subject of her maiden name, should we consider that she was indeed a Jenkins? (See Zilpha’s section on why this might actually be irrelevant to this discussion anyway.)

Let’s ponder that for a moment. If she is Ann Jenkins, born ca 1804 or ca 1810, then census analysis might help figure out her parents. In 1810, only one Onslow Jenkins household had a daughter that age, namely James Jenkins (c1780-1851) who had two. Note that I believe James is also a brother to Lewis and John, so if he happens to be Ann’s father, then she and Osborne were 1^st cousins.

Moving to 1820, Ann would be 16 if born ca 1804, or 10 if born ca 1810. That means she could be in either of two age groups, 16-25 or 10-15. James had three girls 10-15. Benjamin, Thomas and David had one each aged 10-15. None of the Onslow Jenkins had an apparent daughter 16-25 on this census. Benjamin (c1798) wasn’t old enough to be Ann’s father. Thomas (1786) was old enough, but I don’t think he was married until the mid 1810s, and wasn’t listed on the 1810 census. David was listed in 1810, but had no daughter at all then, suggesting the girl in his 1820 household wasn’t a daughter but someone else, thus it seems James is again the only option.

James Jenkins left a Will in 1851 and did not name Ann, Amy or Nancy as one of his children. However, it is clear from his 1810 and 1820 census entries he had a daughter her age who wasn’t named in his Will meaning she may have died before then or he just left her out for some reason. Thus, I have to conclude that while James might be the father of Ann, there isn’t sufficient proof to be confident of the connection.

Alternative maiden names for her could be Ennett or Coston as both those families were associated with Auza Jenkins.

“Aus Jenkins” is listed on an 1828 tax list in Onslow in Cpt Grant’s District. He had no land, one white poll, no black polls. Benjamin Jenkins was listed on the previous page about a dozen entries distant. James Jenkins was also listed a few pages away.

On 4 Apr 1828, “Auza” Jenkins was listed as a purchaser at the estate sale of John Beasley deceased. James, Lewis, George and Nancy Jenkins were also listed among the purchasers. I believe that John Beasley was Osborne’s uncle.

The 1829 tax list for Onslow County, Stump Sound District includes: James, Ausburn, George and Benjamin Jinkins.

Osborne Jenkins was listed on the 1830 census in Onslow Co., NC. His wife didn't seem to be listed with him, possibly a mistake, or evidence that Ann wasn’t his first wife. If true, then his first wife had died before 1830 and he married Ann after that. In 1830, They were next door to John Jenkins (1770/75) and three houses from Lewis Jenkins, both strong candidates to be Osborne’s father.

1830 Census, Onslow 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+
228	Ozen Jenkins	1	1	~	~	1	~	~	~	~	~	~	~	~
	Slaves=0	2	1	~	~	~	~	~	~	~	~	~	~	~

My analysis (who each person *might* be)

1m 20-29 (1800/1810)       Osborne Jenkins (c1803)

1m 5-9 (1820/1825)            James M. Jenkins (c1825) son

1m 0-4 (1825/1830)            John Jenkins (c1829) son

1f 5-9 (1820/1825)              Daughter? (1820/1825) > gone by 1840

2f 0-4 (1825/1830)              1. Daughter? (1825/1830) > gone by 1840

                                               2. Elizabeth Jenkins (c1829) daughter

The 1831 tax list for Onslow County, Stump Sound District includes: Auza Jenkins with 1 white poll. Also listed are James, Benjamin and George Jenkins.

The 1832 tax list for Onslow Co., NC, Stump Sound includes James Jenkins, Benjamin Jenkins, Auza Jenkins and George Jenkins. Auza has no land, and one white poll.

On 8 Aug 1833, the Onslow court ordered the Sheriff to seize $8.27 of the goods of James Barland to pay what he owed to Auza Jenkins and David Hansley via a court verdict. (Onslow Co., NC Civil Action Papers.)

The above was likely a civil suit pertaining to an unpaid debt.

On 24 Apr 1835 Auza Jenkins witnessed a deed between Benjamin Jenkins (c1798) and Thomas Edens. (Onslow Co., NC Deed Book 21 Page 146).

I've long suspected that Benjamin was a brother of Osborne. In fact, I’m fairly sure of it, based mainly on association, and the fact that Benjamin named one of his sons Auza.

On 10 Oct 1835, “Oz Jenkins” made a land entry for 100 acres described as lying on the south west side of Turkey Creek. However, when surveyed on 9 Apr 1836, only 40 acres was found there. Chain bearers were Elijah Justice and Thomas Ennett. It was granted to Jenkins on 12 May 1836.

Turkey Creek rises near Holly Ridge in southern Onslow, west of New River, and flows southerly a short distance and empties into Stump Sound right across from Topsail Beach.

Elijah Justice was born ca 1816 and lived near the Jenkins families. I don’t know if he’s related, though Auza Jenkins (Jr) (son of Benjamin) was residing with him in 1850. There was an older man of the same name, who would have been in his 50s in the 1830s, so probably not the one acting as a chain bearer, but certainly possible.

Thomas Ennett (1780/90-aft 1830) was a son of Nathaniel Ennett (d ca 1818), who was a neighbor of the Jenkins family, and perhaps related somehow. There was a younger Thomas Ennett (1800/10-aft 1840) who might have been the chain bearer instead.

The 1835 tax list for Onslow, Stump Sound, includes Auza Jenkins with 100 acres of land valued at $50, and one white poll. Also listed were Benjamin and James Jenkins.

Is this the 100 acres he entered in October the same year? It seems unlikely, as it wasn’t granted until the next year and shouldn’t be taxable until then. Also, it turned out to be only 40 acres anyway. Thus, he already had 100 acres in 1835 at tax time, but where did he get it? I didn’t find a deed of him purchasing it. Was it inherited land from his parents or his in-laws? Perhaps.

“Ausbin” Jenkins made a land entry on 2 Apr 1836 for 63 acres. The land was surveyed on 26 Sep 1836, described as starting on a small holly on the west side of Turkey Creek on the north side of a small stream. No other landmarks or neighbors were listed. Chain bearers were Bradick Hansley and James Jinkins. On the back his name was listed as “Oz” Jenkins. It was granted to him on 10 Dec 1836.

I believe that James Jenkins is Osborne’s uncle, brother to Lewis and John, one of whom is likely Osborne’s father. Braddock Hansley (1800/10) was a neighbor, no relationship known at this time.

At some point in time the 63 acres granted to Osborne wound up in the hands of Burgess Williams as it was part of his 1848 estate division. (Onslow Co., NC Deed Book 26, pp. 65-66.)

Burgess Williams (1780s-c1848) was a neighbor, no known relation.

“Ausbe” Jenkins was one of the purchasers at the estate sale of Lewis Thompson, deceased, on 17 Mar 1838. George Jenkins also made a purchase. No known relation to Lewis Thompson.

On 24 Feb 1838, an estate sale was held for property of Margaret Mason, deceased. “Ausa” Jenkins was among the purchasers. I don’t know who she was.

The 1839 tax list for Onslow Co., NC, Stump Sound includes entries for James, George, Auza, Benjamin and George Jenkins. Auza was listed with 100 acres valued at $50, and one white poll.

What happened to his 1836 land grant of 63 acres? That should have been added to the 100 acres he already had. He apparently sold it before this time. It did wind up in the hands of Burgess Williams (by 1848). Also, what happened to his 40 acre land grant? It wasn’t listed either. Did he also sell that before 1839?

In Feb 1839, Auza Jenkins, among others, was ordered to report to the next court as a juror.

Osborne was listed on the 1840 census in Onslow Co., NC. The enumerations for him and wife are both off, him being ten years too young and her ten too old. This is a common census problem, suggesting it wasn’t either of them who provided the information to the census taker. There was also an older woman living with them (born ca 1770/80) who is most likely either his mother or his mother-in-law. It should be noted that both Lewis and John Jenkins had seemingly died before 1840, so either of them could have left a widow who wound up with son Osborne. The age of this woman with Osborne is a better match for Sarah Beasley Jenkins, wife of Lewis, opposed to John’s unknown wife who was born ca 1780-90. However, as noted, there are problems with the age of Osborne and Ann on this census, so it’s possible the older woman’s age is off too, so I can’t be certain of my census analysis.

1840 Census, Onslow 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+
144	Ausburn Jinkins	2	1	1	~	1	~	~	~	~	~	~	~	~
	Slaves=0	1	2	1	~	~	~	1	~	1	~	~	~	~

My analysis (who each person *might* be)

1m 20-29 (1810/1820)       Osborne Jenkins (c1803)

1m 10-14 (1825/1830)       John Jenkins (c1829) son

1m 5-9 (1830/1835)            Lewis R. Jenkins (c1834) son

2m 0-4 (1835/1840)            1. Uzza Jenkins (c1838) son

                                               2. William Henry Jenkins (c1840)

1f 60-69 (1770/1780)         Mother? Mother-in-law?

1f 40-49 (1790/1800)         Wife?

1f 10-14 (1825/1830)         Elizabeth Jenkins (c1829) daughter > m by 1849

2f 5-9 (1830/1835)              1. Sarah Jenkins (c1831) daughter

                                               2. Zilpha Ann Jenkins (1835) daughter

1f 0-4 (1835/1840)              Daughter? (1835/1840) > gone by 1850

On 28 Feb 1842, Ozbern Jinkins was one of the purchasers at the estate sale of Isaac Jarrott, decd.

In 1845 (no date), an inventory of the estate of Jarvis Marble, deceased, included notes due to the estate from Matthew Coston and Auza Jenkins for $7.95 due 12 Aug 1830, and one from Jno Coston and Auza Jenkins for $17.07 due 1 Apr 1831. These were quite overdue by 1845 if not already paid. John A. Jenkins and G. W. Jenkins were also listed among the notes due. (Onslow Co., NC Probate and Sales Records 1845-1861, p. 33.)

Since he had two joint notes with Coston men, it is worth checking into them. Who were Matthew and John Coston? Were they related to Auza? Were they related to his wife instead? There were quite a few Costons in Onslow, so I don’t want to dive deep here. However, Matthew Coston (1760/70) was listed there on the 1830 census in the same neighborhood with many of the other names we’ve seen associated with Auza Jenkins. Matthew was listed on the 1840 census in the same neighborhood. John Coston (1790/1800) was listed as well, very near Auza Jenkins. Matthew appears to have died before 1850. John Coston wasn’t in Onslow in 1850. I found a potential match in Washington Co., GA in 1850 two houses from Hezekiah Jenkins (c1798) who, not coincidentally, was from Onslow Co., NC (or his parents were at least). This suggests some kind of Jenkins - Coston familial connection. More research may help sort it out.

* Note: I do have an unexplained DNA match to a Coston descendant and another with a Dixon (part of the Coston lineage). Both could be explained if there is a Coston and Dixon in my ancestry via the Jenkins family, perhaps via Auza’s wife Ann?

On 25 Jan 1845 Benjamin L. Grant made a deed of gift to Samuel Jarvis Junr, son of Samuel Senr. Witnesses were Elijah Justice Jr and Auza Jenkins. (Onslow Co., NC Deed Book 25, p. 165.)

I’m not aware of any connections between the Grants and Jenkins, nor any to the Sarvis family.

On 5 Feb 1846, an inventory of the estate of Thomas Ennett, decd, included notes due from Auza Jenkins, one for $25.00 due 25 Dec 1833, one for $11.22 ½ due 16 Sep 1836, one for $25.00 due 25 Dec 1832. (Onslow Co., NC Probate and Sales Records 1845-1861, p. 38.)

In the probate file for Thomas Ennett, those same notes were listed, each marked “Doubtful” which usually meant they thought it was unlikely they’d be able to collect them due to the debtor either having no money or other reasons. That didn’t stop them from trying.

On 9 Jul 1846, the court ordered “any lawful officer” to obtain Auza Jenkins and Benjamin Jenkins to answer complaint of William Ennett, executor of Thomas Ennett, decd.

On 1 May 1847, the court summoned Elijah Beasley and James Jenkins to testify on behalf of Auza Jenkins in the suit against him by William Ennett. Eventually (1848), Osborne lost the case and had to pay something like $38.

On 17 Jul 1847, George H. McMillan made a deed to the Commissioners of a School House, he sold a one acre tract of land for $5. The commissioners were Ausborn Jenkins, Richd Taylor and Abram Wilde. The land was described as being on Gum Branch adjoining B. L. Grant. Signed by George H. McMillan, witnessed by Jere W. Yopp and J. J. McMillan. (Onslow Co., NC Deed Book 25, p. 490.)

The deed recorded just before the one above was dated 21 Aug 1847 between George H. McMillan and James Jenkins for $48 for 16 acres. This land was also on Gum Branch near the School House. This one was witnessed by William Ennett. (Onslow Co., NC Deed Book 25, p. 490.)

On 14 Nov 1848 a multi party deed was made between Joseph Ennett of the first part, John Whitehurst and wife Elizabeth of the second part, and Asa Sidbury and Auza Jinkings of the other part, all of Onslow. For $500, paid by Sidbury and Jinkings, they sold them two thirds of a parcel of land that “fell to us by the death of Nath. Ennett” bounded on the south by Yopp’s land, north by Hardison, ... near Marbles gate ... Yopp line ... Hardison’s line, down his line to the creek down the creek to the river then the river to Nancy’s Creek ... a small bay called Wheeler Cove ... 333 acres. Signed by Jos Ennett, John Whitehurst, Elizabeth Whitehurst. Witnessed by John T. Whitehurst and Lott Williams. (Onslow Co., NC Deed Book 26, pp. 241-242.)

I can’t locate Nancy’s Creek nor Wheeler’s Cove on any maps, however, I believe it may be Wheeler’s Creek near Sneads Ferry.

On 24 Mar 1849, Auza Jenkins and Asa Sidbury of Onslow made a deed of trust to William B. Sidbury of New Hanover. The deed stated that they were indebted to William for $714, and made the deed to settle the debt, and that W. Sidbury paid them $1.00 for land (no acreage given) described as bounding the lands of Harriet Marble, Harvy Cox and others, and on the S side of New River known by the name of the Nathaniel Ennett [illegible]. The stipulation was that if the debt was not paid off by 24 Mar 1852, the land would be auctioned off. The deed was signed by Auza Jenkins and Asa Sidbury (made his mark) and Wm B. Sidbury. Witnesses were B. J. Pollard and Robert Aman. (Onslow Co., NC Deed Book 26, pp. 169-170.)

Asa Sidbury was a neighbor of the Jenkins, but not related as far as I know. In 1850, Joseph Watson was residing with him. Joseph would become Auza’s son-in-law in 1851.

On 6 Mar 1850 Harvey Cox made a deed to Auza Jenkins for $100, he sold him land on West side of New River known as the Cooper Shop (or Shepard? smeared) place, adjoining land of Jeremiah W. Yopp, William Shepard and Elijah Porter, and on the south side of the public road, number of acres not known, supposed to be thirty acres. Signed Harvey Cox. Witnessed by John C. Corbett, O. B. Sanders (Ottway B. Sanders). (Onslow Co., NC Deed Book 27, pp. 117-118.)

The family was listed in Stump Sound District in Onslow Co., NC on the 1850 census. There were several Jenkins families nearby. In fact, most of the Jenkins in Onslow in 1850 were within 50 households of Osborne in 1850. Ann is clearly listed as “Amy” here.

1850 Census, Onslow Co., NC, Stump Sound, House 355, Family 355

On 2 Nov 1850, Ausburn Jinkins, Richard Taylor and Abram Wilder, Commissioners for a school house named in deed from George H. McMillan ... do reverse back and sell to said George H. McMillan in the neighborhood of Fullwoods Creek ... B. L. Grant’s line ... one acre. Signed by Abram Wilder, Auza Jenkins, Richard Taylor. Witnessed by Nehemiah Taylor and Elija C. Taylor. (Onslow Co., NC Deed Book 26, pp. 504-505.)

On 21 Feb 1851 Asa Sidbury made a deed to Ausburn Jinkins, having purchased land in conjunction, each having paid half the cost, the land is on New River near Sneeds Ferry ... near Manson Fuller’s gate ... E. Parter’s corner ... Nathaniel Ennett’s corner ... 333 acres, formerly known as the Nathaniel Ennett place ... we agree to make a division of the land, each of us knows our part or portion of said land ... division beginning at head of Nancy’s creek. Signed Asa Sidbury (his mark), Ausburn Jenkins. Witnessed by Jere W. Yopp, Richard Taylor. The agreement was proven in Sep 1851 court by Jere W. Yopp. (Onslow Co., NC Deed Book 26, pp. 461-462.)

On 1 Mar 1851 Elijah Canady made a deed to John A. Williams for land in Bussard Neck mentions Marble’s Bridge. Wm R. King and Auza Jenkins witnessed. (Onslow Co., NC Deed Book 27, pp. 352-353.)

On the same day (1 Mar 1851), Auza Jenkins made a deed to John A. Williams for $75 for 30 acres on south west side of New River ... Buzzard Neck line ... McKinney patent ... Elisha Porter’s line. Signed by Auza Jenkins. Witnesses were Elijah Beasley and B. W. Jenkins. (Onslow Co., NC Deed Book 27, p. 353.)

On 3 Mar 1851, Jesse Bishop signed an administration bond to administer the estate of William Bishop, deceased. His bondsmen were John F. Spicer and Auza Jenkins, all three of whom signed the bond. (Estate papers of William Bishop, 1851.)

On 25 Nov 1851 Enoch and Deliah Foy made a deed to Asa Sidbury and Auza Jenkins for $250. The land was on the W side of New River and known by name of Nathaniel Ennett land, we being heirs at law to one third part of said land ... (no acreage, landmarks or metes or bounds given). Signed by Ezekiel Floy and Delilah Ann Floy. Witnessed by James N. Gray and Ivey Sheapard. (Onslow Co., NC Deed Book 27 pp. 81-83.)

On 10 Jul 1852 Elisha Porter Sr made a deed to this son Elisha Porter Jr. Witnesses were Wm B. Kidd and Auza Jenkins. It was proven in March 1853 court by Auza Jenkins. (Onslow Co., NC Deed Book 27, pp. 101-102.)

In Sep 1853 court, “Insolvent Taxables” were listed, which included Ausben Jenkins Jr, Edward Jenkins, Benjamin Jenkins, and many other names. This would be Benjamin and his son Osborne, who also went by Auza on many records. Edward Jenkins is probably James Jenkins’s son of that name. A September 1857 insolvents list included “Ausbon” Jenkins and George H. Jenkins. This would be Benjamin’s son, as our Osborne was dead by then. (Onslow Co., NC Jury Lists.)

On 18 Nov 1853, Ausbon Jenkins was one of several men ordered to lay off dower lands for Comfort Ennett, widow of William Ennett, deceased. (Estate Folder of William Ennett, 1853.)

On 3 Oct 1855, Auza Jenkins was listed as purchasing some items at the estate sale of Fanny Taylor, deceased.

Osborne Jenkins died in February 1856. His estate records are on file at the NC Archives in Raleigh in two separate folders, one under the name “Auza Jenkins” 1859 and the other “Osborne Jenkins” 1856.

In March 1856, Anna Jenkins, widow of Osborne Jenkins, petitioned for her widow’s support from Joseph Ennett, administrator of the estate. The document also says that Osborne Jenkins died on (blank) Feb 1856, intestate (meaning he left no Last Will and Testament). The court ordered that Jeremiah W. Yopp, Nehemiah Taylor & Jarrett Gornto, freeholders, be appointed to lay off for the widow one years provisions for herself and family. (Onslow Co., NC Loose Estates. Osborne Jenkins 1856.)

On 26 Mar 1856, Joseph Ennett returned a list of notes he found due to Auza Jenkins:

∙           Uriah Canady & L R Mason $47.50

∙           John Mason $10.90

∙           Henry Rhodes $8.30.

(Onslow Co., NC Loose Estates. Auza Jenkins 1859.)

Osborne owed others far more than others owed him, unfortunately.

An estate sale was held on 27 Mar 1856, and purchasers included his widow, as well as Benjamin Jenkins and Lewis Jenkins and others. (Onslow Co., NC Loose Estates. Auza Jenkins 1859.)

In September 1856, Joseph Ennett, administrator of Osborne Jenkins deceased, stated that the debts of the deceased totaled about $600, and with administrations costs, to $650, and that the personal estate of the deceased will amount to only $200. He listed the property of the deceased as land on Nancy Pearson Creek bounded on the north by Burgess Williams on the south by Asa Sadbury (sic) on the west by Elisha Porter and on the east by the river. No acreage was listed. He said that was the only land he had, and that it descended to his heirs at law:

∙           James Jenkins

∙           Elizabeth Cannady

∙           Sarah Packer

∙           Lewis Jenkins

∙           Auza Jenkins, minor

∙           Henry Jenkins, minor

∙           Milly Jenkins, minor

The land is subject to the dower of the widow which has not yet been drawn. The petitioner states that the sale of the whole said land is necessary (except the widows dower) is necessary to pay the debts of the intestate. (Onslow Co., NC Loose Estates. Osborne Jenkins 1856.)

An undated paper titled Joseph Ennett, Adm vs. Heirs at law of Osborne Jenkins decd, Petition to make real estate [illegible]. Jasper Etheridge, Gr ad litem. It includes the signatures of some of the heirs as they acknowledged the document being served to them.

∙           Lewis R. Jenkins (his mark)

∙           Elizabeth Canady (her mark)

∙           Sarah Packer (her mark)

∙           Witnessed by Jos. Ennett, but crossed out.

∙           Signed by M. F. Williams.

(Onslow Co., NC Loose Estates. Osborne Jenkins 1856.)

Another undated paper is titled Amia Jenkins vs Heirs at Law of Osburn Jenkins, decd. Writ of dower to Dec 1856. (Onslow Co., NC Loose Estates. Osborne Jenkins 1856.)

On 1 Sep 1856 the court ordered a jury of twelve men be formed to meet upon the premises of Osborne Jenkins, deceased, to lay off the dower for the widow Amia Jenkins. (Onslow Co., NC Loose Estates. Osborne Jenkins 1856.)

 

In Sept 1856 court, a petition was presented from Amia Jenkins, widow of Osborne Jenkins ...... her said husband died sometime in the year 1852 leaving him surviving the following children to wit, James Jenkins, Elizabeth Canady, Sarah Packer, Lewis Jenkins and Auza Jenkins, Henry Jenkins & Milly Jenkins, the last three minors, who are his only heirs at law. (Emphasis mine.)

She further goes on to say he died with a tract of land on Nancy Pearsons creek and she requests her dower from the land. (Onslow Co., NC Loose Estates. Osborne Jenkins 1856.)

(Onslow Co., NC Loose Estates. Osborne Jenkins 1856.)

Note that she lists his death as 1852 on this document, whereas other documents in the same folder show he died in Feb 1856. I believe the latter is correct.

An undated document shows that Jasper Etheridge, Clerk of court, was appointed guardian ad litem for the minor children. (Onslow Co., NC Loose Estates. Osborne Jenkins 1856.)

On 8 Nov 1856, the court ordered jury laid out one third of the lands for widow Anna’s dower. This is also recorded in the deed book (see below.) (Onslow Co., NC Loose Estates. Auza Jenkins 1859.)

On 8 Nov 1856, M. L. F. Redd, Sheriff of Onslow Co., NC, certified the deed as laid out by a jury, to wit, James M. Canady, Lee (Leander) Moore, Thomas Williams, Jerry Hansley, Nehemiah Taylor, Bryant Williams, James Piner Sr, Richard Taylor, Bryan H. Williams, Asa Sidbury, Edwd. Williams and Burgess Williams, to lay off and allot to Anna Jenkins her Dower and third in the lands of Auza Jenkins, decd, mentioning the dweling house and Asa Sidbury’s line. No acreage was given. The jurors all signed, some with marks. (Onslow Co., NC Deed Book 28, pp. 51-52.)

On 28 Feb 1857, in accordance with a court order dated Dec 1856, some land of Auza Jenkins, deceased, was sold at auction at Sneeds Ferry. George W. Jenkins was highest bidder, described as ... at or near Burgess William’s gate ... Asa Sidbury’s line ... being 120 acres, excepting the widows dower. Signed by Joseph Ennett, Administrator. Witnessed by M. L. F. Redd and Thomas Williams. (Onslow Co., NC Deed Book 28, p. 79.)

An undated list of creditors to the estate has many names including George W. Jenkins, Grean Canady, William B. Sadbury, James H. Canady, Harvey Cox, among others. (Onslow Co., NC Loose Estates. Auza Jenkins 1859.)

On 2 Mar 1857 Joseph Ennett, administrator, reported that sold the land of Auza Jenkins to George W. Jenkins, the last and highest bidder, for $605. (Onslow Co., NC Loose Estates. Auza Jenkins 1859.)

On 4 Jun 1857, the heirs were named again, though the spelling was slightly different for some of them: Anne Jenkins, widow, James Jenkins, Elizabeth Canady, Sarah Packer, Lewis Jenkins, Auza Jenkins, Henry Jenkins and Milly Jenkins, the last three minors (under 21). This document gave Osborne’s death as February 1856. (Onslow Co., NC Loose Estates, NC Archives)

On 1 Mar 1858, Asa Sidbury signed a guardianship bond as guardian to Uzza Jenkins, Henry Jenkins and Milly Jenkins, minors, orphans of Auza Jenkins. His bondsmen were William C. Pearson, Van Buren Everett (or Ennett) and George W. Jenkins. (Onslow Co., NC Guardianship Records, 1857-1870.)

Ann Jenkins, widow of Osborne, was listed on the 1860 census in Onslow Co, NC as head of household. Several other Jenkins families were nearby. This was Stump Sound District, as before. Her widowed daughter Sarah Jenkins Watson was living with her.

1860 Census, Onslow Co., NC, Stump Sound District, Golden Place PO, House 68, Family 69

Ann --- Jenkins died 20 May 1862 in Onslow Co., NC (her death date was given in her estate papers). Her estate records are on file at the NC Archives in Raleigh in a folder labeled “Anne Jenkins 1862.”

On 25 Nov 1862, an estate sale was held for the personal property of Anney Jenkins. Purchasers include:

∙           Wm H. Jenkins

∙           Elijah Canady

∙           Henry H. Jenkins

∙           Wm Prescoat

∙           Thomas Ennett

∙           Elizabeth Jenkins

∙           James Eadins

∙           and others.

(Onslow Co., NC Loose Estates. Anne Jenkins. 1862.)

In June court 1863, William R. King, administrator of Anne Jenkins, deceased, filed a petition for the sale of land against Sarah Jenkins, James Jenkins and Uzza Jenkins et al, heirs at law of said Anne Jenkins. The document states that Anne Jenkins of Onslow died on 20 May 1862. It mentions land joining Jackson Jenkins, deceased, and Henry A. Rhodes, deceased being about 30 acres. Later in the document it lists the heirs more fully:

∙           James Jenkins

∙           Sarah Jenkins

∙           Uzza Jenkins

∙           Wm H. Jenkins

∙           Milly Prescott wife of Wm Prescott

∙           and Wm Ellis Jenkins, infant. Later listed again “by his Guardian A. J. Johnson, guardian ad litem.

(Onslow Co., NC Loose Estates. Anne Jenkins. 1862.)

William Ellis Jenkins was an orphaned child of Lewis R. Jenkins (d 1863).

Note that Elizabeth Jenkins Canady wasn’t named, nor was Lewis R. Jenkins. He was dead by then, and Elizabeth may have been as well.

In Sep 1864 “It appearing to the satisfaction of the court that the personal estate of Anna Jenkins, decd is insufficient to pay her debts and the charges of the administration.” It was then ordered that William R. King, administrator of her estate, sell her land. Hill King, the Sheriff, received the order on 12 Sep 1864 and delivered it William R. King on 24 Oct 1864. (Onslow Co., NC Loose Estates. Anne Jenkins. 1862.)

On 31 Dec 1864, William R. King, administrator of Annie Jenkins, deceased, made a deed to Joseph King for $205 land containing 50 acres on the west side of the school house branch, bounded west by J. W. Yopp, north by Jackson Jenkins, east by Edward Edens, and the south by Henry A. Rhodes. (Onslow Co., NC Loose Estates. Anne Jenkins. 1862.)

I don’t know where Auza and Ann Jenkins are buried, though presumably in the vicinity of Sneads Ferry.

---

Children

The estate records of Osborne Jenkins and those of Ann prove seven children. Census and other records show a few others who weren’t named in the estate, either dead by then or left out for some other reason, for a total of 12 children. For example, Zilpha is proven by her death certificate, but she wasn’t named in her parents estate records. See her section for more on that subject.

 

1.         Unidentified Daughter (1820/1825)

2.         James Jenkins (c1825) m1 Elizabeth Jane Merritt, m2 Sarah Wood.

3.         Unidentified Daughter (1825/1830)

4.         Elizabeth Jenkins (c1829) m Zachariah G. Canady.

5.         John Jenkins (c1829-1850s)

6.         Sarah Jenkins (c1831) m1 Joseph Watson, m2 George H. Jenkins.

7.         Lewis R. Jenkins (c1834) m Elizabeth Coston.

8.         Zilpha Ann Jenkins (1835) m Uriah G. Canady.

9.         Unidentified Daughter (1835/1840)

10.       Uzza Jenkins (c1838) m Elizabeth B. Ennett.

11.       William Henry Jenkins (c1840) m Henrietta Edens.

12.       Milly A. Jenkins (c1842) m William Prescott.

---

Unidentified Daughter (1820/1825). With Osborne Jenkins for the 1830 census, but gone by 1840, so probably had married, or died before then. She wasn’t named in his or Ann’s estate records, so probably deceased before 1856.

---

James Jenkins (c1820/25) seems to be with his parents in 1830, aged 5-9 (1820/1825), but gone by 1840. I should note that the 1840 census entry for the family has some issues, so maybe he was still at home then after all.

He was not with the family in 1850, nor was he listed elsewhere in Onslow County on that census. He was named in his father’s 1856 estate records, and his mother’s 1863 estate, so still alive through then at least, though apparently living somewhere other than Onslow. He was not in Onslow on the 1860 census, nor 1870 or 1880.

Obviously, our James Jenkins left Onslow County before 1850 for parts unknown, but was still living as late as 1863, his location probably known by his relatives who remained in Onslow. How do we determine who he was and where he was? After all, “James Jenkins” is a very common name. Using a broad search I found 50+ of that name on the 1850 census, all born in North Carolina. Narrowing the search criteria down to only those born in the 1820s the list reduces to only nine names, though none of those nine seem a likely match in my opinion. There is one possible match “next door” in Jones Co., NC in 1850. He even has a son named Osborne, so that looks promising! The main problem though is that he’s too old to be our James, I think. For reference, here’s his 1850 census entry:

1850 Census, Jones Co., NC, Beaver Creek District, House 439, Family 431

This James, born ca 1812/13 is too old to be Osborne and Ann’s son. Of course it’s entirely possible his age is wrong on this census. They were the only Jenkins family in Jones County in 1850.

Beaver Creek rises in western Jones County near the Lenoir County line then flows generally southeasterly, past Sassers Mill and then joins the Trent River near the Pollocks community. Beaver Creek District (later Township) covers a larger area than that, and does border northern Onslow County. While this is next door to Onslow, so to speak, it’s on the opposite side of the county from where Osborne Jenkins resided.

James of Jones was old enough, and had children old enough that he should have been listed on the 1840 census as a head of household. There are no Jenkins in Jones County in 1840, but there is a James Jenkins in neighboring Lenoir County in 1840 who is a perfect match for the one in Jones in 1850. I don’t know for certain they are one and the same, but if they are, then it probably means this isn’t Osborne’s son, because, he is indeed too old to be Osborne’s son as confirmed by his age in 1840 (born 1810s).

While it’s possible James Jenkins of Lenoir and Jones is a son of our Osborne, I just don’t think he is, mainly due to his age. Now, he certainly might be closely related, thus the reason he named one of his own sons “Osborne.” Of course that could also be a coincidence.

Where then is *our* James Jenkins in 1850 and after?

Dorothy R. Brantley asked me about a particular Jenkins family a number of years ago and put me on the track of a James Jenkins that I think is probably the one we seek, though the proof is circumstantial but somewhat compelling, or at least I think so. There are also problems with it being the same James, but I’ll let the reader decide. I don’t recall how it all got sorted out originally, but I’ll simply list the records found in chronological order.

The person in question is named James M. Jenkins, born either ca 1824/25 (per 1850 census) or ca 1821/22 (per 1860 census).

On 20 Apr 1850, James Jenkins obtained a marriage bond in Duplin Co., NC to marry Betsy Jane Merritt. James Jenkins was listed as the bondsman. I don’t know if that was James himself, or a relative with the same name. The intended groom usually signed along with the bondsman. Thus, this could be James acting as his own bondsman, or it could be his father or uncle.

Duplin County borders Onslow County so this is the right neighborhood for this to potentially be our James Jenkins. Furthermore, there were no Jenkins in Duplin for the 1810, 1820, 1830 and 1840 censuses, so this James apparently moved there from elsewhere in the 1840s, so that fits.

Elizabeth Jane Merritt was born ca 1826/27 per the 1850 census, or ca 1821/22 per the 1860 census. I tend to think the 1860 census is more accurate. She was born in North Carolina, but I don’t know what county, perhaps Duplin since that’s where she married. I don’t know who her parents were.

James Jenkins and wife were not listed on the 1850 census in Duplin, having apparently immediately moved to Charleston, SC after marriage and are listed on the census there, both mistakenly listed as born in South Carolina. I didn’t see any nearby people who might be related to either of them.

1850 Census, Charleston Dist., SC, Christ Church Parish, House # 116, Family 136

* They were listed as having married within the census year.

As noted, James Jenkins was named in the 1856 estate records of his father Osborne Jenkins. His place of residence wasn’t mentioned in any of the papers as far as I noticed. It should be noted that he didn’t sign any of the documents that his siblings did, suggesting he didn’t live in Onslow then.

James and family were still in the Charleston area for the 1860 census.

1860 Census, Charleston Dist., SC, Christ Church, Haddrills? PO, House 94, Family 82

Looking at the 1850 and 1860 census entries, I believe you’ll see why we believe it’s almost certain this is the same James who married Elizabeth Jane Merritt in 1850 Duplin Co., NC. Right name for him, and his wife (both her names), right birth places (per 1860 census, anyway), and the presence of Henry Merritt with them in 1860, undoubtedly a close relative of Elizabeth Jane’s.

Having established that, it still isn’t certain from these records alone that this James is the same one who is a son of our Osborne Jenkins.

James Jenkins was named as an heir in the 1863 estate records of Ann Jenkins, though once again, his place of residence wasn’t named.

I was unable to locate James and family on the 1870 census in Charleston, SC or anywhere else. There is a James Jenkins, age 40, on the 1870 census in Charleston who *could* be the same one there before, as he has a daughter Caroline, age 13 with him in 1870 which is a decent match to his daughter Caroline age 3 from 1860. However, the rest of his family doesn’t align well, but it certainly could be him. We’ll have to keep in mind how bad the 1870 census is, especially in the south.

1870 Census, Charleston Co., SC, Saint James Santee Township, Charleston PO, House 263, Family 386

* James is marked as “Denied voting” which presumably means he wasn’t allowed to vote because of Civil War activities, such as confederate service?

If the above is the same James Jenkins, and I’m not sure it is, it would mean that Elizabeth Jane Merritt died in the 1860s and he married Frances before ca 1867. One big problem with the above census entry is the presence of Pink (c1859) and Archy (c1855) as apparent children. Our James didn’t have sons of those names with him in 1860. I checked 1860 to see if I could find either of them with some other James Jenkins, but had no luck finding them.

I didn’t find any member of the 1870 family in 1880 in Charleston or elsewhere. I’m about 95% convinced that the 1870 family isn’t the same James from 1850 and 1860 despite the similarity.

That could be the end of the story, but there is the not so small matter of a marriage bond back in Duplin Co., NC dated 2 Sep 1865 for James Jinkins and Sarah Wood.

Is this the same James Jenkins, having gone back to Duplin, perhaps because of the effect the Civil War (1861-1865) had on Charleston? Perhaps they returned to Duplin to be with Elizabeth Jane’s family during the war, and she died there before ca 1865, then met and married Sarah Wood in his 1^st wife’s old neighborhood?

This could be correct, but the evidence is sadly lacking to prove it. Let’s follow them anyway.

Sarah Wood was born ca 1846/47 per her age on the 1850 census with her parents Uzza T. Wood and Nancy Parker.

1850 Census, Duplin Co., NC, Southern Division, House 640, Family 640

She was with her parents in 1860, in Duplin. This census taker included the county each person was born in. Several of the neighbors were born in Onslow, suggesting they lived somewhat near the county line.

1860 Census, Duplin Co., NC, Southern Division, Hallsville PO, House 94, Family 95

Moving to the 1870 census a problem emerges. Sarah is still with her parents, and not listed as a Jenkins. There is no sign of James Jenkins. Had he died and she returned home to her parents? Or was he perhaps elsewhere at census time? I didn’t find him listed anywhere else on this census (unless that’s him in 1870 Charleston SC which I don’t think it is). I think the answer is that he died ca 1867/70, presumably in Duplin Co., NC.

1870 Census, Duplin Co., NC, Cypress Creek Township, Chinquapin PO, House 27, Family 27

Her father, Uzza T. Wood is listed on the 1880 census in Onslow Co., NC with another family as a servant, listed as single, but it’s clearly him. Sarah’s mother is still in Duplin in 1880, with Sarah listed next door, now listed as a Jenkins and widowed. This census taker included everyone’s birth month which is helpful.

1880 Duplin Co., NC, Cypress Creek Township

Comparing the 1870 and 1880 census entries, I’d have to conclude that “Jane” age 3 of 1870, is the same person as Jere age 14 of 1880.

Note that Sarah continued to have at least two more children after the death of James Jenkins. The oldest one listed here, Willie, was a son of Hosea Lanier as proven by his 1894 marriage license. I don’t know who the father of Minnie F. Jenkins was.

Sarah Wood Jenkins married Amos Brock on 30 Mar 1881 in Duplin Co., NC. His first wife was Esther Lanier.

Sarah married again, I think, unless it’s someone else of similar name, in 1887 to Thomas Henderson in Duplin, and was dead by 1890 when he remarried, thus she died between ca 1887 and 1890.

So far I’ve not proven that the James Jenkins who married Elizabeth Jane Merritt in 1850 is the son of Osborne of Onslow. Nor have I have proven that James who married Sallie Wood in 1865 is the same James that married before in 1850, nor that he is the son of Osborne. Thus, other than the right name and age and proximity (i.e. Duplin being next to Onslow) why would we think this James might be Osborne’s son?

The answer is via James’s son Jere Jenkins who married in Onslow Co., NC ca 1885 to Victoria Caroline Coston, and they resided in Onslow a few years before moving to Roanoke Rapids in the 1920s. The connection, such as it is, is via Jere’s wife Victoria. Her father Hiram Coston is the brother of Elizabeth Coston who married Lewis R. Jenkins, son of Osborne. Lewis would be James’s brother, thus Jere’s uncle.

Additionally, Hiram Coston’s wife Melinda Deal is the sister of Nancy Ann Deal who married John L. Jenkins ca 1873 in Onslow, and this John is most likely the son of James Jenkins and his first wife Elizabeth Jane Merritt, thus tying James Jenkins of Duplin Co., NC and Charleston SC back to Onslow even more.

It isn’t solid proof that James M. Jenkins is the “missing” son of Osborne named James Jenkins, but I think it’s the best we can do, circumstantially speaking.

James M. Jenkins and his 1^st wife Elizabeth Jane Merritt had four known children, all apparently born in Charleston Dist., SC. One of them, John, returned to Onslow Co., NC unless the John L. Jenkins in Onslow isn’t the same person, which *might* be the case.

∙           Ruth Jenkins (c1851-aft 1860), no further info.

∙           John L. Jenkins (c1853-1925), m1 Nancy Ann Deal, m2 Rena Wood, m3 Bessie Wood.

∙           William Jenkins (c1855-aft 1860), no further info.

∙           Caroline Jenkins (c1857-aft 1860), no further info.

James and his 2^nd wife Sarah “Sallie” Wood had only one child, born in Duplin Co., NC:

∙           James Jere Jenkins (1866-1940). Married Victoria Coston in Onslow ca 1885, resided there until 1920s, then to Roanoke Rapids, Halifax Co., NC.

Sarah “Sallie” Wood Jenkins had two children out of wedlock in her widowhood, both born in Duplin Co., NC. While they carry the Jenkins surname, they aren’t Jenkins by blood since they have different fathers.

∙           William Henry Jenkins (1875-1949), son of Hosea Lanier. m1 Eva Green Henderson, m2 Elizabeth J. Sholar.

∙           Minnie F. Jenkins (c1878-aft 1880). No further information.

---

Unidentified Daughter (1825/1830). With Osborne Jenkins for the 1830 census, but gone by 1840, so probably had married, or died before then. She wasn’t named in his or Ann’s estate records, so probably deceased before 1856.

---

Elizabeth Jenkins was born ca 1828/29 per her age on the 1850 census (21). She was with Osborne Jenkins for the 1830 census and home in 1840.

She married Zachariah G. Canady before ca 1849.

They are on the 1850 census in Onslow next to her parents in 1850.

1850 Census, Onslow Co., NC, Stump Sound, House 354, Family 354

“Elizabeth Canady” is named 2^nd in the list of heirs of Osborne Jenkins in an 1856 petition in the estate records. (Onslow Co., NC Loose Estates. Osborne Jenkins 1856.)

I wasn’t able to find any of them on the 1860 census.

Elizabeth was not named in her mother’s 1862-1866 estate records, suggesting she had died before then. Since none of Elizabeth’s heirs were named either, then perhaps they too had died. We only know of the one daughter from the 1850 census, Sarah (c1849).

---

John Jenkins was born ca 1828/29 per his age on the 1850 census (21). He appears to be with his parents on the 1830 census, aged under 5 (c1825/30) and home in 1840, aged 10-14 (1825/30), and home in 1850, as noted, aged 21.

He was not named in his father’s 1856 estate records, nor his mother’s 1863 records, so it would appear he died between 1850 and 1856, probably unmarried since none of his heirs were named in his parents estate papers either.

---

Sarah Jenkins was born ca 1830/31 per her age on the 1850 census (19) or ca 1829/30 per her age in 1860 (30). She appears to be with her parents in 1840, aged 5-9 (1830/1835), and was home with them in 1850 as Sarah, age 19.

1850 Census, Onslow Co., NC, Stump Sound, House 355, Family 355

On 28 Jan 1851, Joseph Watson obtained a marriage bond in Onslow Co., NC to marry “Sarah Jinkins.” Joseph Ennett was the bondsman. Ennett was a neighbor and possibly related to her in some way. He was the administrator of her father’s estate in 1856.

Joseph Watson died shortly after their marriage, leaving her with one child, a son William Henry Watson (probably named for her brother), born in 1852. He is my great great grandfather.

Sarah Jenkins Watson remarried in 1862 to George H. Jenkins, a much older cousin, nearly 30 years her senior. He died shortly afterward. She lived until the late 1870s, dying sometime after 1877. Unfortunately, she lived her last few years as a pauper.

Having outlined the family above, I should note two problems. The first is that there is another Sarah Jenkins, about the same age as this one, who other researchers believe is actually Osborne and Ann’s daughter.

The other one married John J. Yopp on 2 Sep 1851 in Onslow. I understand why they might think Sarah Jenkins Yopp is Osborne’s daughter instead of Sarah Jenkins Watson. Reasons to think so:

∙           Sarah Jenkins (c1831), daughter of Osborne and Ann, is the only Sarah Jenkins on the 1850 census in Onslow County. Thus some would automatically assume that it’s the same one who married Mr. Yopp in 1851. However, that means they have to discount the one who married Joseph Watson earlier the same year.

∙           Uzza Jenkins, proven son of Osborne and Anne, was living with John and Sarah (Jenkins) Yopp in 1860. This would suggest he was living with his sister, which would normally be a reasonable conclusion.

∙           John and Sarah (Jenkins) Yopp lived in very close proximity to Osborne’s family.

Counter arguments, or reasons not to put Sarah Jenkins Yopp in Osborne’s family:

∙           Obviously there should be at least two Sarah Jenkins listed on the 1850 census, the one who married the Watson in 1851 and the one who married the Yopp later in 1851, but there is only one, meaning the other was missed for some reason. Since their ages are so similar, you can’t just conclude which one was which without additional evidence.

∙           Uzza Jenkins was living with Sarah Jenkins Yopp in 1860, but that doesn’t prove they were siblings, but it does strongly suggest they were related.

∙           In Osborne Jenkins’s estate papers, his daughter Sarah is listed several times as Sarah Packer in 1856, not Yopp, nor Watson either for that matter. That’s an issue needing more study in and of itself.

∙           In 1860, Sarah Jenkins Watson, then widowed, was residing with Ann Jenkins, widow of Osborne Jenkins. Of course this doesn’t prove that Sarah Jenkins Watson was their daughter but it strongly suggests it. Of course she could be a niece instead.

∙           Finally, the coup de grace in my opinion, widow Sarah Jenkins Watson married George H. Jenkins in 1862. In her mother’s estate records, she was listed as “Sarah Jenkins” which perfectly matches her surname at that time, thus I think this is conclusive enough that Sarah, wife of Joseph Watson, is the child of Osborne and Ann, opposed to Sarah, wife of John Yopp. That Sarah is almost certainly closely related though.

In Osborne’s 1856 estate papers his daughter Sarah was listed several times as Sarah Packer (is that a badly written Parker?). How do we reconcile that with the 1851 marriage to Mr. Watson, and that she was living with Ann in 1860 as S. J. Watson?

1860 Census, Onslow Co., NC, Stump Sound District, Golden Place PO, House 68, Family 69

“Packer” is an uncommon surname in Onslow County records, but there were some there, so there certainly could be some connection. Did Sarah Jenkins Watson, after the death of Joseph Watson (aft 1852), then marry a Mr. Packer before 1856? I’ve found no marriage record, and there’s the not so trivial matter that she was again a Watson in 1860 and still in 1862 when she married G. H. Jenkins. Was it a common law marriage with Mr. Packer, i.e. they lived together and didn’t actually marry, thus she was technically still a Watson at the time? The administrators of Osborne’s estate might not have known that and listed her as a Packer. Or, alternately, she did marry a Mr. Packer, but they divorced prior to 1860, and she reverted to her widowed name. No records have been found to confirm that scenario, but it would explain the situation.

There was a Micajah Packer on the 1860 census in Stump Sound, very near the Jenkins. He was 70. His apparent wife Susan was 35, and they had Penny 17, Hill 15, Benjamin 5 and Susan 5 with them. They were listed next door to George W. Jenkins, who had purchased Osborne Jenkins’s land, so they were definitely nearby.

Micajah Packer moved around a lot. He was in Greene Co., NC in 1830 and 1840, and in Lenoir County in 1850. He married Nancy King in 1854 in Jones Co., NC and he (without Nancy) is listed in Onslow in 1860. Of course it’s possible these records aren’t the same one who was in Onslow by 1860. However, he was right next to the King family in 1860, suggesting it was the same person.

There was also a Frederick Packer (1801) in Jones Co., NC in 1830 and 1840, and in Onslow in 1850, with wife Mary age 50. He died in Onslow in March 1860 per the 1860 census mortality schedule. There is a one page estate record for him in neighboring Jones Co., NC in 1860, which gives no family information. His widow Mary died ca 1865, which of course precludes Frederick from having married Sarah Jenkins Watson in the 1850s.

Of the two men, Micajah and Frederick Packer, it’s Micajah who seems the only possible candidate to be Sarah Jenkins Watson’s husband, if indeed she married a Mr. Packer at all.

I don’t have the answer to this mystery just yet. I think one potential explanation may have to do with Joseph Watson, so let’s discuss him a moment, though I refer you to his page for more information on him.

Joseph Watson was born ca 1824/25 per his age on the 1850 census (25). That year he was residing with Asa Sidbury in Onslow, and if you recall, Mr. Sidbury was closely associated with Osborne Jenkins, so this puts Joseph near Osborne, which is more proof he’s the one who married this Sarah Jenkins. However, the problem is Joseph’s parentage. I have not been able to prove who his parents were.

My best conclusion so far is that he’s a child of Dorcas Watson, who was either a widow Watson or a single mother and Watson was her maiden name. I strongly suspect she’s actually Dorcas Huffman, married 1^st to an unidentified Watson who died before 1830, then she later married Henry Foster, probably as his 2^nd wife, before ca 1835. If this scenario is correct, she had Joseph Watson ca 1825, as well as an unidentified daughter born ca 1825/1830, both of whom are with her in 1830.

Dorcas Watson had a child, name unknown, out of wedlock before ca 1832 with Charles Cox per an Onslow County bastardy bond. That child could be Joseph Watson or the girl born 1825/1830 if the bond was filed late, or it could be a younger half sibling of theirs. The reason I mention this is because what if Joseph Watson’s father was a Packer, and he too was born out of wedlock and perhaps sometimes used his father’s surname instead of his mother’s? Or maybe he didn’t use it, but those who knew him might have, as people are wont to do sometimes. That might explain why Sarah was listed as a Packer instead of a Watson in the estate records, even though there is a marriage bond for her and Joseph Watson dated 1851, and she’s a Watson on the 1860 census, and a Watson on her 1862 marriage bond.

I don’t know the answer, but meanwhile, I’m fairly certain that Osborne and Ann’s daughter Sarah is the one married to Joseph Watson in 1851 and not the one who married John Yopp that same year.

Joseph Watson died in the 1850s, leaving Sarah with only one child, a son William Henry Watson (1852). Sarah married a 2^nd time, to George H. Jenkins (c1803) in 1862. His parentage isn’t known yet, but he was certainly a cousin to Sarah to some degree. He apparently died not long after their marriage.

Sarah wasn’t found on the 1870 census, but was apparently still living up through 1877, listed on the pauper records several times in the 1870s, so apparently living her last few years in poverty.

Refer to Joseph Watson’s page for more details on this family.

---

Lewis R. Jenkins was born ca 1833/34 in Onslow Co., NC. I don’t know what his “R” initial stands for.

He seems to be home with his parents in 1840 (age 5-9, born ca 1830/35). He was home with them on the 1850 census (“Lewis,” age 16).

He was named in his father’s estate papers in Sep 1856 as an heir and again on 4 Jun 1857.

On 30 Mar 1857 Lewis Jenkins obtained a marriage bond to marry Elizabeth Coston. M. L. F. Redd was the bondsman. Elizabeth was a daughter of Zephaniah Coston and Margaret Justice.

They were listed on the 1860 census in Stump Sound Township next to his sister Zilpha.

1860 Census, Onslow Co., NC, Stump Sound District, Golden Place PO, House 95, Family 95

Lewis R. Jenkins enlisted for the Civil War on 13 May 1861 in Company E, 3^rd North Carolina Infantry as a Private. He was 25. He was killed on 3 May 1863 at Chancellorsville, Virginia, aged about 30.

Lewis Jenkins was not named in his mother’s estate papers (June 1863), though “William Ellis Jenkins” infant (under 21) was named, relationship was not stated. This was Lewis’s only child.

Widow Elizabeth Coston Lewis married Edward Perkins as her second marriage. The marriage bond was dated 9 Nov 1863. B. F. Williams was the bondsman.

Edward Perkins was born ca 1822/23 in Maine per his 1880 census entry. I looked for him in 1850 and found a potential match in Hancock Co., ME, but that Edward Perkins, while the correct name and age, isn’t this one, because that one died in 1853 per a death record in that same county. I found no other good matches on the 1850 census, nor did I find him on the 1860 census in Maine or elsewhere.

They are on the 1870 census in Onslow next to her brother-in-law (William) Henry Jenkins. They are residing with Brice Williams, who could be the same person as B. F. Williams who was the bondsman in 1863.

1870 Census, Onslow Co., NC, Stump Sound Township, Onslow Court House PO, House 28, Family 27

Kesiah Green and probable son Rowan Green were also with them. He (Rowan Green) later married one of Milly Jenkins daughters. (Not Osborne’s daughter Milly, but an older Milly, daughter of James.)

The Perkins’s were in Jacksonville Township for the 1880 census. Mr. Perkins name was listed as “Ebens” or something like that, which could be mangled Edward, but seems more like a mangled Ebenezer. I’m not sure what to make of that.

1880 Census, Onslow Co., NC, Jacksonville Township, House 208, Family 209

I wasn’t able to find Edward or Elizabeth on the 1900 census. Ellis Jenkins was in Onslow in 1900, still in Jacksonville Township.

Lewis R. Jenkins only had one child, a son, John William Ellis Jenkins (1861-1914). Elizabeth Coston Jenkins apparently had no children with her 2^nd husband, Edward Perkins.

---

Zilpha Ann Jenkins was born Mar 1835 (per 1900 census) in Onslow Co., NC. Her tombstone has birth date as 13 Jun 1840 but that doesn’t match any of her census entries.

There is a problem with including Zilpha in this family, mainly in that she was not named in the estate papers of either Osborne Jenkins (1856) or Ann (1862), which makes me wonder if she is actually their child. She certainly fits via census analysis, and there’s the not so small matter of her death certificate which lists her father as Osborne Jenkins and mother as Nancy Jenkins. More on this subject later.

Zilpha seems to be home with her parents in 1840 (age under 5, born ca 1835/40). She was not home with her parents in 1850 but was listed several households away with the Elijah Beasley family, who I think is Osborne’s 1^st cousin.

1850 Census, Onslow Co., NC, Stump Sound, House 378, Family 378

Zilpha was not named in her father’s 1856 estate records. Two of the records therein clearly state they include all the heirs at law of Osborne Jenkins, and she’s not on either list. More on this later.

Zilpha married Uriah G. Canady before ca 1856/57 (per 1900 and 1910 censuses) in Onslow Co., NC (no marriage record found). Uriah was born 5 Apr 1835, a son of James H. Canady and Mary Canady.

They are listed on the 1860 census in Onslow County, next door to her brother Lewis Jenkins.

1860 Census, Onslow Co., NC, Stump Sound District, Golden Place PO, House 95, Family 95

She was not named in her mother’s estate records (June 1863) either though very much alive at the time.

They were still in Onslow for the 1870 census, next to Burgess Williams and near John Yopp and wife Sarah (Jenkins) Yopp, and a few houses from Asa Sidbury, so in the same neighborhood as before.

1870 Census, Onslow Co., NC, Stump Sound Township, Onslow Court House PO, House 21, Family 20

They are still in Onslow for the 1880 census.

1880 Census, Onslow Co., NC, Stump Sound, House 98, Family 101

Uriah and Zilpha are listed on the 1900 census in Onslow.

1900 Census, Onslow Co., NC, Stump Sound Township, House 265, Family 266

* Sic, should say 65.

They are on the 1910 census in Onslow.

1910 Census, Onslow Co., NC, Stump Sound Township, House 126, Family 126

Uriah G. Canady died on 29 Jul 1917 aged 82. He’s buried at Wiley Field Cemetery in Sneads Ferry, Onslow Co., NC.

I was unable to find Zilpha on the 1920 census, though still living then.

She died on 19 Jan 1922 in Wilmington, New Hanover Co., NC, aged 86. She is buried at Wiley Field Cemetery in Onslow Co., NC.

Her death certificate lists her father as “Osborn Jenkins” born Onslow, and mother’s maiden name as “Nancy Jenkins” born Onslow.

What do we make of her not being listed in the estate records of either of her parents? One conclusion is that she was left out because she wasn’t their daughter, and that her death certificate is simply wrong. Death certificates are often notoriously inaccurate in various ways, especially concerning birth dates, birth places, parents names, and mother’s maiden names. Perhaps the informant named her uncle as her father by mistake. That kind of thing does happen.

Or, perhaps Osborne Jenkins is indeed her father, but the “Nancy Jenkins” listed as her mother isn’t Osborne’s wife Ann, but a different person of similar name. What I’m getting at is perhaps Zilpha Ann was born out of wedlock to a Nancy Jenkins who had a relationship with Osborne Jenkins, undoubtedly a relative, ca 1834/1835. This may have happened during the period when Osborne was widowed from his first wife (his early census records suggest that Ann wasn’t his first wife).

Consider this scenario. Osborne Jenkins’ 1830 census entry shows him with children, but no apparent wife. This could mean he was widowed by then, and wouldn’t marry Ann until after 1830. A few pages away is a Nancy Jenkins, an apparent widow, his same age group, also with children. I’ve assumed she was a widow, but she certainly could be a single mother instead. Moving to the 1840 census we see that Nancy Jenkins is still listed as a head of household and has more children, including some born since 1830, suggesting she is indeed having children out of wedlock (unless those are grandchildren, nieces, nephews, etc.). Her household includes one daughter under 5 (born 1835/40) and two 5-9 (1830/1835). Zilpha Ann would fit in any of those slots.

I don’t know what became of Nancy Jenkins after 1840. She was not listed on the 1850 census. Is she Zilpha Ann’s mother? And if so, is Osborne Jenkins really Zilpha’s father? As noted, death certificates can’t always be trusted.

The mystery will have to remain unsolved for now, but keep in mind there is a more than reasonable chance that Zilpha Ann Jenkins (1835) is not a child of Osborne and Ann, but very well could be his daughter with Nancy Jenkins, a single woman, not the same person as his wife Ann even though “Nancy” was a very common nickname in those days for those named “Ann.”

---

Unidentified Daughter (1835/1840). With Osborne Jenkins for the 1840 census, but gone by 1850, so probably had married, or died before then. She wasn’t named in his or Ann’s estate records, so likely dead by 1856.

---

Uzza Jenkins was born ca 1837/38 in Onslow Co., NC. He seems to have been home with his parents in 1840 (age under 5, born ca 1835/40).

He was home with his parents for the 1850 census (“Uza” age 12).

He was named in his father’s estate papers in Sep 1856 as an heir Auza Jenkins and again on 4 Jun 1857.

He was with his mother for the 1860 census (“Uzza” age 22). He was also listed again with John Yopp and Sarah (Jenkins) Yopp, relationship to him unknown, but undoubtedly related. (See Sarah Jenkins section above for a little more on Sarah Jenkins Yopp.)

1860 Census, Onslow Co., NC, Stump Sound District, Golden Place PO, House 122, Family 122

Uzza Jenkins enlisted for the Civil War on 13 May 1861 in Company E., 3^rd North Carolina Infantry as a Private. He was 21. His record shows he was wounded several times, first at Gettysburg, PA on 3 Jul 1863, and on 27 Nov 1863 at Mine Run, Virginia, again on 5 May 1864 at Wilderness, Virginia.

He became a Corporal on 3 Sep 1864, and was captured on or before 6 Apr 1865. He was confined at Newport News, Virginia until he took the Oath of Allegiance on 27 Jun 1865.

In his mother's estate papers (June 1863) he was named as “Uzza Jenkins.”

A marriage bond was signed on 22 Jun 1867, for “Auzy Jinkins” to marry Betsy Everett. G. W. Justice was bondsman. On the back of the bond his name is listed as “Auza Jenkins.”

Elizabeth B. Ennett was born ca 1833/34 in Onslow, a daughter of Joseph M. Ennett and wife Henrietta (—). She was with them on the 1850 census (“Elizabeth B.” age 16). On 2 Aug 1858, Reuben Everett obtained a marriage bond in Onslow to marry “Betsy Ennett.” M. V. D. Everitt was bondsman. Reuben was born ca 1827/28 in Onslow, son of Thomas C. Everett and Aggy (—). Reuben and Elizabeth are on the 1860 census in Onslow in Stump Sound. Reuben Everett apparently died between 1861 and 1867, perhaps due to the Civil War (1861-1865), leaving Elizabeth a widow. As noted, she married Mr. Jenkins in 1867.

They were listed on the 1870 census in Onslow County near many other Jenkins.

1870 Census, Onslow Co., NC, Stump Sound Township, Onslow Court House PO, House 111, Family 110

They were still in Onslow for the 1880 census.

1880 Census, Onslow Co., NC, Stump Sound, House 81, Family 83

* This census taker used “son in law” instead of step son.

I wasn’t able to find Uzza or Elizabeth on the 1900 census. They may have both died between 1880 and 1900. I found both their children still in Onslow in 1900.

Uzza and Elizabeth had one child, a daughter Mollie Philyaw Jenkins (1868-c1905/10) who married Elisha King (1861-1944).

Elizabeth had two children by her first marriage, a male, W. T. Everett (c1859-1860s) who died young, and Joseph Reuben Everett (1861-1935).

---

William Henry Jenkins was born ca 1839/40 in Onslow Co., NC. He seems to have been home with his parents in 1840 (age under 5, born ca 1835/40).

He was home with his parents for the 1850 census (“Henry” age 10).

He was named in his father’s estate papers in Sep 1856 as an heir Henry Jenkins and again on 4 Jun 1857.

He was with his mother for the 1860 census (“William H.” age 20).

In her estate papers (June 1863) he was named as William H. Jenkins.

William H. Jenkins enlisted for the Civil War on 13 May 1861 in Company E., 3^rd North Carolina Infantry as a Private. He was 21. His record shows he was captured and wounded on or around 17 Sep 1862 and was confined at Sharpsburg, MD. He must have escaped or been exchanged or paroled, for he was promoted to Corporal on 4 May 1863. He was wounded again on 27 Nov 1863 at Paynes Farm, Virginia. He was promoted to Sergeant shortly after that.

On 20 Mar 1861 Henry Jenkins obtained a marriage bond in Onslow to marry Henrietta Edens. William Prescott, his brother-in-law, was bondsman.

She was born ca 1844/45 in Onslow, a child of Edward Edens and wife Ann Hinds (married 1833). Henrietta was with them in 1850 (“Ritta” age 5) and with her father (and his 2^nd wife) in 1860 (“Ritta” age 14).

Henrietta Edens Jenkins apparently died sometime between 1861 and 1870, presumably in Onslow Co., NC.

To confuse matters, William Henry’s cousin (presumed) William Thomas Jenkins married a Henrietta Wilson in 1868 and they are listed on the 1870 census in Onslow as William and Henrietta. However, William Thomas is younger than William Henry. Furthermore, William Henry more often than not went by “Henry” perhaps to avoid confusion with William Thomas.

Henry is listed on the 1870 census in Onslow residing alone. He’s next door to sister-in-law Elizabeth Perkins, wife of Edward. She was first married to Lewis R. Jenkins.

1870 Census, Onslow Co., NC, Stump Sound Township, Onslow Court House PO, House 29, Family 28

William Henry Jenkins died on 11 Nov 1879 in Wilmington per an obituary published in The Wilmington Morning Star dated 12 Nov 1879:

DIED. JENKINS – In this city, on the evening of 11^th inst., W. H. JENKINS, aged 48 years. The funeral will take place this (Wednesday) afternoon, at 3 o’clock, from his late residence, corner Market, and 11^th Streets, and from thence to Bellevue Cemetery. Friends and acquaintances of the family are invited to attend.

He has a veterans tombstone in that cemetery, but it’s inscribed with 8 Mar 1879 as his date of death, but it’s clearly the same man.

I don’t know if William Henry and Henrietta had any children. I haven’t found any.

---

Milly A. Jenkins was born ca 1841/42 in Onslow Co., NC. She was home with her parents for the 1850 census (“Milly” age 8.)

She was named in her father's estate papers in Sep 1856 as an heir “Milly Jenkins” and again on 4 Jun 1857.

She was with her mother for the 1860 census (“Milly A.” age 19).

On 12 Feb 1861, William Prescott (spelled “Prescoat”on the record) obtained a marriage bond to marry Milly Jenkins in Onslow Co., NC. Elisha Porter was the bondsman. They married nine days later on 21 Feb 1861 as reported in The Weekly Wilmington Journal on 28 Feb 1861:

married in Onslow at residence of Lewis Jenkins, on 21st inst, by F. Williams, William Prescott and Miss Milly Jenkins, daughter of the late Osburn and Anna Jenkins all of Onslow

William Prescott was born ca 1836/37 per his age on the 1860 census (23). I was unable to find him anywhere on the 1850 census. However, in 1860 he was with his likely mother Mary Prescott, apparently a widow. They were both in the household of Sarah Edens, 45, relationship to them unknown. They were next to Joseph M. Ennett and near several Jenkins households. They are also next door to Reuben Everett and his wife Elizabeth (Ennett) who, after Reuben’s death, would marry Milly’s brother Uzza Jenkins in 1867.

1860 Census, Onslow Co., NC, Stump Sound, Golden Place PO, House 56, Family 57

In her mother’s (Ann Jenkins) estate papers (June 1863) she was named as “Milly Prescott, wife of William Prescott.”

Milly Jenkins Prescott apparently died ca 1867, perhaps in child birth with her daughter Polly Prescott, born around that time.

William Prescott married again on 19 Jan 1868 in Onslow to Sarah Edens, not the same Sarah he and his mother were living with in 1860, but a younger woman of the same name. I wasn’t able to identify her parents. She was born ca 1839/40 per her age on the 1870 census. There are two Sarah’s close to the right age on the 1850 census, one is Sarah M. Edens (c1837) daughter of Edward Edens and Ann Hinds. Sarah M.’s sister Henrietta married William Henry Jenkins, so that’s a connection. Sarah M. Edens was not with her parents in 1860. The other one from 1850 was Sarah Edens (c1840) a child of Thomas and Mary (—) Edens. She was with her parents that year, aged 10 and still with them 1860, aged 19, so that fits.

Based only on the census records, I’d say the daughter of Thomas and Mary is a better match, both age-wise and time-line wise, but I’m not certain.

They are listed on the 1870 census next door to James Jenkins, 25, whose identity isn’t clear as I write this. The two children at home were both Milly’s.

1870 Census, Onslow Co., NC, Stump Sound Township, Onslow Court House PO, House 78, Family 77

I was unable to find William or Sarah on the 1880 census. Their son William (Charles William), aged 17, was in Onslow with another family as a hired laborer on that census.

---

For Family Group Sheet and other notes see my database pages for Osborne Jenkins and Ann (—).

Revised: July 5, 2026

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

[Home] [What’s New?] [Books for Sale] [Christian] [Genealogy] [Search] [Support] [About] [Contact]