John Bright Descendants Continued 
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Contributed by Rose Parks
Generation No. 4
1750-after 1820 Found in Box SS312 Secretary of State (NC) Court Records and also in Box of Misc. Slave papers (a typed transcript is there plus written copy) also noted as #3794, original mentioned they were in Box SS314. A deposition and examination of Sarah Wiggins, wife of Gurshum Wiggins taken at Dobbs County the 12th of April 1772.
Before Benjamin Caswell, JP in presence of James Glasgow and Simon Bright, Jr. ESQRS.
On the 11th April 1772 Dobbs County, NC Nehemiah Wise for wife Ann (Dobbs Co), John Hull and Joseph Ratliff of same, personally appeared before Benjamin Caswell. Nehemiah Wise for his wife in sum of 500 pounds proclamation money and the sum of 250 pounds each for Hull and Ratcliff, each to be _____of their goods and chattles, land and tenement respectively. To this use of our said Lord and King his heirs and successors on condition the said Ann Wise shall make her personal appearance before Chief justice next Court date 11 May next, then and there to give evidence in behalf of our said Lord the King against Sarah Wiggins, wife of Gersham Wiggins on charges of suspicion of having murdered her own infant child then this recognizance to be....otherwise to remain in full force. Benjamin Caswell Justice of Peace
In New Bern District Court Minutes May 1772 " The King vs Sarah Wiggins: Murder, The 12 jurors listed were Impaniled and sworn say the defendant is not guilty". In NC Archives New Bern Court Misc. Records Box DSCR.206.928.3 Notes for GERSHAM WIGGINS: 1738-before 1820 The name Gershom is a child of Moses and Zipporah, meaning" a stranger (or alien) in a strange land" Exodus 2:21 and 18:2-3. Since Gersham Sr. and Jr. are both listed in the Johnston County militia in 1755 and the usual age for being included was 18-45 (changed some from year to year, set by the Colonial Assembly) this earliest grant evidently applied for by Gersham, Sr., born about 1710. This one must have died before the 1769 date listed in N.C. Taxpayers or not be in North Carolina, but all the county Records, except for Grantee Index, from 1746-1880 were destroyed in the fires of Lenoir County Courthouse. Gersham, Uncle of this one, is not listed in the reconstructed grantor index so any change of ownership would have been to family. Gersham, son of John, was listed in his Uncle George Wiggins will in 1749 to receive 70 acres on the lower end of George's grant and his son John the other 200. In 1778 Gersham was granted 270 more acres on both sides of Falling Creek. He is on the 1810 census of Lenior County, but not listed on the 1820 index. Deed Book 5 page 237 Johnston County, NC has the first entry for Gersham Wiggins buying from Major Croom in 1758, Book 11 page 354 Dobbs County Gersham buys from Henry Goodman 1779, Book 14 page 450 Gersham buys from Riddick Hunter page 450 before 1791. He also buys from Benjamin Ruggin pg 451 same year and sells to Bryan Whitfield Book 13 pg. 468 (between 1784-1789) (Lenoir County). He buys more in 1803 and 1805, then in 1805 and 1806 Gersham sells 3 plots to John and 2 to James. The 1806 date is last time Gersham is mentioned in the Deed Index. James, John, George and Jesse all buy from James Bell between 1810 and 1814. This is the last time James is mentioned. He probably sold his land before leaving North Carolina but this is only a Grantee (buyer) index. Gersham and John Jr. are both listed on 1790 Dobbs Co. NC census on page 136. Gersham shows 3 M over 16, 3 females and 3 slaves. John shows 1 M over 16, 3 M under 16 and 2 females. 1800 Lenoir Co. (same as Dobbs) list Gersham and John (Jr.) page 26 Gersham shows 1 M over 45, 1 M 26-45 and 1 M 16-26. We know his son James was born 1773 so he is 27 years old. 1 F over 45, 1 F 26-45 and 1 F 10-16. John has 1 M under 10, 1 M 10-15 and 1 M 26-45,2 F under 10, and 1 F 26-45. 1810 Lenoir Co. census includes two George's, Sarah, and W. John, page 291; One George listed is 26-45, not married and son of Gersham? Sarah is the wife of John who previously had been listed in Craven Co. John died in 1803, leaving a will. The other George and John are John and Sarah's sons. Gersham and John page 288 and James page 290. Gersham and wife both over 45 (no others in home) but 6 slaves. James is the one born 1773. The 1810 census for Craven County is missing. In 1804 the county line between Craven and Lenoir is moved causing some Wiggins previously in Craven to now be listed in Lenoir. 1820 Lenior County list George, James, Jr. and Jesse page 7; Aaron, James Sr. and Thomas page 8; Caleb and Robert page 11. Caleb is son of John and Sarah (John died 1803 and Sarah on 1810 census) and the George, Robert and Aaron are his sons. In a community in that time, Sr. and Jr did not mean father and son, only that two of same name resided, and Sr. noted the older one. Jesse has not been proved in the family yet. It seems as close as all these appear to live to each other, there is some kinship? Entries of Claims for land in Dobbs 1778-1790 by Wm L. Murphy Book 1 (242)247 January 31 1778 Gershom Wiggins 270 acres Dobbs on both sides Falling Creek, Joining Wm Barwicks, Wm. Aylors (or Alyn) and Major Crooms line. This was surveyed or finalized 10 November 1784, Book 1 Major Crooms got a 400 acre grant same year and mentions he is joining John Wiggins, Gershom Wiggins and James Parker. 22 March 1787 Spencer Caldwell granted 80 acres in Dobbs N. side of Neuse River on Stirrup Creek joining John Wiggins. Gersham also was granted 72 acres in Lenoir county 25 March 1793 Book 78 page 427. Tax Records for NC show a Mick Wiggins and Thomas Wiggins in Dobbs County in 1779. Who are they? THE PATRIOTS AT MOORES CREEK BRIDGE by B.G. Moss, says this battle was a deciding factor at the beginning of the Revolutionary War. This took place 27 February 1776. The British planned to use the Carolina Loyalist to overthrow the rebellious government but this did not work. Mr. Moss and other historians have discovered many things about this battle which was not previously known. He has tried to establish a list of those participating. He list "Gorshum Wiggins of Dobbs County, served under Capt. Jesse Cobb and Col Richard Caswell. These two officers participated in the battle and Wiggins was possibly in the encounter. Papers, V, 15." The National Archives has said they have no information on this man. This spelling or alternate spellings, but it is still possible he was there, as many papers have been lost. St. Phillips Parish Records, Barbados, shows that a Gershom Wiggon, son of George and Christia Wiggon was baptised 20 March 1681. There are other Wiggins listed in these Barbados records. On the 1780 Tax List for Dobbs County, NC, Gershom is shown with vlue of $1,013 andliving in Taylor District near La Grange and Institute Only a grantee index is extant for Lenoir till after 1880. It shows that Book 5 pg. 237 Major Croom sold to Gersham between 1757-1758
Know ye by these presents that we Gershom Wiggins, Moses Westbrook and James Bright are held and firmly bound to Isahel Wiggins in sum of 100 pounds to be paid to Asahel Wiggins, his heirs etc. we bind ourselves this July AD 1799. A suit was brought by said Asahel Wiggins against Gershom Wiggins, judgement was against Gershom Wiggins, and being dissatisfied prayed an appeal to next court and if Gershom will duly prosecute the said appeal with effect and abide by the judgement and sentence of said court then the above allegations to be void and other wise to remain in flill force and effect. Signed Gershom Wiggins, Moses Westbrook, James Bright
This is to certifv in Lenoir County Court of Pleas and Quarter Sessions, among other things is contained as follows, pleas held before the worshipfull Lazarus Pearce, James Bright, Joseph Taylor Esq. and others of the brethren Justices of the County begin and held for County of Lenoir at Courthouse in Kinston on 1st Monday in July year of our Lord 1799. Be it remembered that on 1st Monday in July 1798 at Kinston came John Doe by Edward Harris Esq. his attorney and complains of Richard Roe in custody whereas Asahel Wiggins on 7th March 1798 in Lenoir County granted and sold to said John Doe a certain tract of land containing 262 acres in Lcnoir lying on the North side of the Neuse River and on Falling Creek, beginning at a pine thence N.33 degrees W, 240 poles to a pine thence N 57 degrees E, 160 poles to white oak thence 5 33 degrees E, 300 poles to a hickory to beginning. To have and hold the said tenement with appurtenances to said John Doe and his assigns from 1st of March until full term often years to be completed and was thereof possessed until the said Richard Roe on 10 March 1798 with force and arms entered and expelled and removed the said John Doe.
Notice: To Gershom Wiggins; I am informed that you are in possession or claim title to the premises mentioned in declaration or to some part thereof or claim title, I do advise and give notice to appear on 1st Mon July next court, to cause yourself to be defendant, otherwise I shall suffer a judgement to be had against me and you will be turned out of possession. Your loving friend, Richard Roe
On that same day 1st Monday July 1798 came William Goodman Esq. Sheriff and said he did deliver to Gershom Wiggins a copy of above declaration and Gershom Wiggins came with his attorney Thomas Badger Esq. and pleaded not guilty whereupon it was ordered that a jury be summoned, but was continued from court date to present of July 1799 when parties above and jury consisting of Elijah Byrd, Joshua Bryd, Leonard Loftin, David George, John Tuttle, Wondal Davis, Benjamin Coleman, John Partridge, John Wilson, Elisha Johnson, Willie Garner and John Harrell say the defendant Gershom Wiggins is guilty and assess six pounds damages and cost. The defendant dissatisfied with and entered an appeal to next Superior Court to be held for District of New Bern on 19th Sept. next, given under my hand and seal 16th Aug. 1799 J. Bright Copy of court cost and expenses paid for evidence to John Worsham, Claret Wine, Lemuel Byrd and Sarah Coker.
Laurens County South Carolina In obedience to an order of Court at Lenoir County in North Carolina the following deposition was taken: appeared before me, one of Justices of the County at the house of Zacheriah Bayly Esq. Elenor Donoho who said she knew George Wiggins who lived in NC at the place called Sloop Landing on Neuse River and that she knew John Wiggins to be son of above George Wiggins and Margaret his wife, and the same John Wiggins came to this state and she knew him to be the same John Wiggins and he lived near her in this state and she was with his wife the night Asahel Wiggins was born and she knows him to be the same Asahel Wiggins that had lately given Hardy Croom a deed for conveyance of land and that she believes Asahel was 23 years old last Christmas to best of her remembrance, 16 Aug. 1798 Elenor Donoho by her mark before John Davis 'P Also in Laurens Co. SC same date, place etc comes John Philpot who says 23 years ago last December he himself was acquainted with John Wiggins and his wife Elizabeth Wiggins and that the Christmas Asahel Wiggins was born and he is considered son of John and Elizabeth Wiggins and he also says he saw Asahel Wiggins deliver to Hardy Croom an instrument of writing and acknowledged it to be a deed for a tract of land said Croom had purchased in NC said to have fallen to Asahel by the death of his father. (in 1777)16 Aug 1798 John Philpot by his mark. From Lenoir Co. court to John Blocker, Esq. we have appointed you to take deposition in the case od Asheal Wiggins vs Gershom Wiggins from Martha Shockley concerning what she may know about the controversey, in writing for court on 1st Monday Oct. next. William Caswell JP 14 July 1798 Edgefield Co. SC deposition taken by John Blocker at my own house, of Martha Shockley, says she knew George Wiggins who lived at a place called Sloop Landing on Nuce River and she also knew John Wiggins was only male heir George Wiggins had and she was aquainted with him on the Nuce and sometime after John Wiggins came to this State and was lawfully married to Elizabeth Arrington by whom he had but one child Ashel Wiggins, and that John enlisted in the service of US and his wife received a letter about year 1777 that John had died in Charlston while in service. 20 August 1798 Martha Shockley (by her mark)
**From the Grantor/Grantee Index as cited before (Feb. 1997) from Asahel Wiggins to Hardy Croom pg 268 Book 17 1796-1798 ** note by Rose Parks In defense of Gershom Wiggins... In the will of his Uncle George Wiggins, made in Somerset County NJ on 31 Oct 1749 and probated May 1750... I leave to my brother John's son Gershom the lower 70 acres of my grant in Johnston County NC and the remaining 200 acres to my wife Margaret till son John becomes of age.
Children of SARAH HERRING and GERSHAM WIGGINS are:
Notes for JOHN WIGGINS:
The Elizabeth who was said to have married John Turner, Sr. and had Ann who married John Sutton MAY be a daughter of this family. She was said to be daughter of John who received the 566 acre land grant, (that was this John's grandfather) but he did not have a known daughter named Elizabeth. The date given for John Sutton's birth was 1715 or 1718 so that almost eliminates both these females???? A Turner/Sutton researcher said the correct John sutton born 1718 was the one who who married Ann Turner. If this is so, the Elizabeth Wiggins who married John Turner would have to have been a sister of John who received the grant, and would have been married in NJ? All four children listed in 1800 are still at home in 1810. But in 1800 there is 1 son and 1 daughter gone according to 1790 census. They are perhaps in the home of someone else working, or daughter could be married. These early census do not show relationships, just who is living there. James, Thomas and Jesse, sons are listed in the census of 1820 and in the household of James, there is a male his age which could be the" lost from 1790" brother. John (father) is not listed and neither is a female who could be John's widow if he had died. So they both have died or moved out of county?
Notes for JAMES WIGGINS: 1773-1849 The records of Lenoir County, North Carolina were lost in a fire 1878 and again in 1880. A Grantee (buyer) index book was all that survived. James father sells him 2 plots of land in 1805 Book 23 page 34 and 37 and James buys one plot from James Bell in 1810 Book 24 page 81. This is the last time James is mentioned in the Index, but this is buyers only. James signed up for land in Morgan County, Alabama in 1825, shown in Alabama Land Records, Old Huntsville District.He is listed in "Old Land Records of Morgan Co., AL" by Cowart abstracted by Ellouise Wynn.
He is listed in the 1830 Alabama, Morgan County census with 1 male under 5, 1 male 5-10, 2 males 10-15, 1 male 15-20, 2 males 20-30, and 1 male 50-60: 1 female under 5 1 female 5-10, 1 female 10-15, 1 female 15-20 and 1 female 14-50. This accounts for James, Susannah and all the children except for oldest daughter Ann who had married in N.C. before coming to Alabama and Susannah born in 1806 who died between the 1810 census in N.C. and 1820, N.C. At this census he also had these slaves: 3 males under 10, 4 males between 10-24, 1 male between 24-36 and 4 males between 36-55. 1 female under 10, 2 females between 10-24, 4 females between 24-36 and 1 female between 36-55. Total 12 males and 8 females. Given in the book MARRIAGE, DEATH AND LEGAL NOTICES FROM EARLY ALABAMA NEWSPAPERS compiled by Pauline Jones Gandrud, from The Southern Advocate published at Huntsville 25 July 1840, that he was one among many who attended a Morgan County Democratic meeting. The Post Office Department at Washington, D.C. records show that James Wiggins was appointed the second Postmaster at Martin's Store, Morgan County, Alabama on 25 October 1836. Charles Martin was the first PM and appointed in 1828. James served until 28 January 1839 when Joseph Herring his son in law was appointed. The name of the Post Office was changed to Cedar Plains, later just Cedars, and was discontinued in 1904. Copied from THE ALABAMA ENQUIRER of January 9, 1890 "From Reminiscences of Morgan County No. 12 by A.G. Copeland, Woodlawn, Alabama. At an early age, Mr. Wiggins settled in Cedar Plains, where he ammassed fine property, and left an excellent family of sons and daughters. The oldest fence in the county now stands on his old farm. It was of red cedar and built eighty years ago, and a sound structure yet. Another article said the home James built for his family was of square hewn, red cedar logs with cracks between logs plastered inside and out. The two stories contained eight rooms and a large hall, all with 14 foot ceilings. The kitchen, like the style of the day was 14 foot square, detached and behind the main house. The 1850 mortality schedule of Morgan County, Al. shows that James died in June 1849 at age 74 born in NC and died of heart disease. Final Record for the estate is in Probate Court Book 11, beginning with page 214 and continuing through page 220. Total pages I have on James Estate file are Book 10 page 74 17 October 1849 76 25 October 1849 In this page is noted where James Wise is appointed guardian by the court for William T., Nancy, Marcella, James, Mary Ann, and Josephine minor heirs of Bright H.
This closes out the file for heirs of estate of James Wiggins. More details on some pages below. Administrator Joseph Herring was appointed and bond dated 17 October 1849, George Wiggins, J.L. Wiggins, Jesse Wiggins, William P. Key, and A.A. Hewlett all were on the document of Administrators Bond. Jonathan and Watkins Orr and James Owen were appraisers of the personal property.
Negro's listed man Abram 125.00, Betty _00.00, Milly 475.00, Celia 450.00, Penny 475.00, Harry 725.00, Hester 525.00, Starlin 750.00, Vina 450.00, Margaret 400.00, Henry 450.00, Richmond 75.00, Thurston 255.00, Serh 300.00, Peter 650.00, Amos 700.00, Fortune 450.00, Lucy 380.00, Jimmy 200.00, Allen 725.00, Phillis 400.00, William 400.00, Minty 525.00, Sam 525.00, Ive 275.00, Manda 225.00, Martha 150.00. 5 horses, 30 cattle, 2 yoke work oxen, 119 hogs, 18 stacks fodder, 300 barrels corn, 25000 seed cotton, set blacksmith tools, set carpenters tools, 4 raw hides, 3 sythes and cradles, 1 cany plows, 3 side harrows, 1 old wagon, 1 sulkey and harness, 1 jack screw and shingle knife, 1 cross cut saw, 4 shovels, grind stove, ??tools,/hoe and grubbing hoe, hand axe and broad axe, dutch fan, wheat threasher, straw cullen, 2 tin head irons, 3 empty cask, 2 pr. balances, steelyards, 3 shot guns, household furniture, 4 tables, 2 bureau and 2 chest, 1 clock and 1 looking glass, dressing glass and candle stand, 4 beds furniture and 3 bedsteads, 1 cupboard and contents, 1 safe and contents, 19 chairs, Bible and 3 vol. Bunyan Wks, 35-40 other books, 1 baking frying pan, coffee pot,
page 217 and 1/2 page 218 is listed with buyers of the estate. page 218 lower is a writ of Division: The State of Alabama Morgan County.. To any Sheriff in the State of Alabama Greetings You are hearby commanded to summon LAWSON GARNER, JONATHAN ORR, MATTHER W. TROOP & DRURY STOVALL to act as commissioners to allot and set apart all the negros belongin to the estate of JAMES WIGGINS, desceased except Starlin and Penny (who were purchased at the sale) and also the following real Estate of said decedant, to wit: Section 1(?) Township 8, Range 5W, NE 1/4 of S1 T8 R5W except 10 acres,s 1/2 of NE 1/4 of S12 T8 R5W, NE1/4 of NE 1/4 S7 T8 R4W, E1/2 of NE1/4 of NW1/4 of S31 T8 R4, SW1/4 of S31 T8 R4 except 10 acres, among the heirs and legatees of the said James Wiggins, deceased to wit:
Sheriff's Return Executed this writ by summoning Jonathan Burleson, Drury Stoval, Jonathon Orr and Lawson Garner 7th day February 1850 William P. Terry, sheriff.
Wm. McDonald in right of wife: one negro valued $633.33 and the N1/2 of W1/2 of SW1/4 of S31 T7 R4 valued at $1.75 per acre and to have $265.12. To William P. Key in right of wife Harriett: one negro man Peter valued $627.66 and the S1/2 of W1/2 SW1/4 S31 T7 R4 valued at 1.75 per acre and $265.00 To John R. Wiggins Abram, Betty, Seah and Margaret valued at $663.33 and the NW1/4 of S6(?) T8 R4 valued at $1040.00 and pay the estate $280.88 To George Wiggins SW1/4 of S6 T8 R4 valued $251.57 To Susan Wiggins, Henry, Celia and child valued at $1150.99 and E 1/2 of NE 1/4 of S1 T8 R5 valued at $700 and to pay estate $402.71 To Jesse Wiggins SE 1/4 S6 T8 R4 and the NE1/4 of NE1/4 of S7 T8 R4 valued at $980.00 and to pay the estate $10.62. To John T. Acock, negro girl Vina valued at $585.33 and the NW 1/4 of S31 T7 R4 except 10 acres on the west boundry valued at $$225 and to receive $188.12 To Joseph Herring in right of wife, Milly and child valued at $633.33 and E1/2 of NE 1/4 of S12 T8 R5 and the W1/2 NE1/4 S1 T8 R5 except for ten acres, say 1 hundred and fifty acres valued at $380.00 and to receive $68.77. To Jacob L. Wiggins, girl Lucy valued $553.33 and NE 1/4 S6 T8 R4 valued at $720.00 and to receive $138.12. Your Commissioners would further report that the heirs of Matthew Wiggins have received the sum of $366.15, an unequal division and Bright H. Wiggins had received $462.97 over a proportionable part in said estate and the discrepancy in the different amounts of each legatee was created by their having received a portion of their distributive share previous to this division, all of which is respectfully submitted on this the 9th day of Feburary 1850. W.P. Tems Sheriff Lawson Garner, Jonathan Orr, Drury Stovall Note: Jonathan Orr was in Noxubee County, Mississippi at some time, living there, near his brother? Simon who continued to live there but Jonathan moved, back to Morgan Co. Al.? From Lucille Reeves, Editor of Noxubee County Historical Society newsletter. Is this the same man? In some research notes on Herring's (James Grandparents) it is said that they brought the same place names from Bertie County to Dobbs, and some from back in Isle of Wight Co. VA and do not know if this is coincidence or what but just east of Hartselle, AL is Somerville and a Hopewell Cemetery in Morgan County. In Morris Co. NJ there is a Hopewell Township and in Middlesex County NJ is a Somerville and on the Millstone River near Princeton (now Mercer but was Somerset Co.) is a town Kingston, which is the name of the town in NC. It was originally Kingstown (NC) but after the Revolution they changed it to Kinston. More About JAMES WIGGINS: Burial: 1849, Herring Cemetery, 3 m. W.of Hartsell, Al. Notes for SUSANNA LASSITER: 1785-1861 She came from North Carolina and was not yet born when the part called Craven County was formed in 1712. Johnston County was formed in 1746 and covered the area which was to become Dobbs in 1758 and remain so until Lenoir was formed in 1791 and Dobbs was discontinued. The county lines have probably changed to some extent since but none so drastically as then. In 1878 the courthouse in Kinston (Lenoir) was set on fire. The only records saved were in Register of Deeds Office. In 1880 the building used as temporary courthouse burned and all deed books burned except the Grantee (Buyer) Index. The Deed Index has been reconstructed to show land ownership. Lenoir County Deed Book 22 page 230 shows land bought by Susan Wiggins from Stephen Lassiter between 1746-1810. Book 22 was for old Deeds registered under the requirment of Act of Assembly. This is probably this Susanna and perhaps her full name is Susan Ann/Anna as this is probably her father. Her father has the same name at least, but I have not checked enough records in this area to know if there is more than one. With a full check of land deeds, this can probably be determined. I have not seen any other records on Susanna till the death of her husband, and death of two sons previously and in time she became Guardian of the minor children, then her own estate papers. Her own Estate: Probate Court Record Book 19 page 31-33 7th January 1862.
Book 19 page 31.. This day came John Wiggins son and heir of Susanna Wiggins, late of said county, deceased and made application to the court to appoint William D. Harper, the Sheriff of said court, Ex officio Administrator of the Estate of the said Susanna Wiggins. It appearing to the satisfaction of the court that forty days have elapsed since death of Susanna Wiggins. page 32 William T. Walts, William T. Orr and Willis F. Orr be appointed appraisers and to report back to the court in sixty days. Two more entries on this page report an amount set for slaves be filed and then the Sheriff files the Appraisers report. page 33 The Sheriff and said Appraisers/Commissioners have leave to sell all the personal property, except the slaves, of Susanna Wiggins Deceased, late of this county. Following this there are arrangements for what type credit allowed and where and when notices are to be posted of sale. page 36 Sheriff makes application to the court to sell negro woman Penny belonging to said Susanna. That 2nd Monday in February be set to hear application and notices be posted. page 52 The judge being fully satisified that all requirments have been made, does grant them leave to sell the negro woman Penny at public outcry to highest bidder with notice given on courthouse door and two other places. page 55 15 Feb. 1862 Sheriff and appraisers made report on the sale of personal property (except slave) and report filed. page 149 17 Feb. 1863 Sowell Jennings Sheriff is hearby appointed as Ex officio Admr. of Estate of Susanna page 155 this is again William D. Harper, late Sheriff of county has filed his vouchers and accounts and ask for final distribution of estate and ask court to set a date. He filed a statement under oath of the heirs at law and distributes to said estate and which it appears that James H. Wiggins, Mary Wiggins, Matthew Wiggins, Frances Wiggins, Bright Wiggins,(Matthew/marked out) Walter Wiggins, Josephine Wiggins, James Aycock and Sarah Ann Aycock are minors under age of twenty one. It is ordered that Henry M. Mason be appointed to represent the minors in the settlement and did appear in court and accept appointment. page 170 The sheriff and commissioners appeared and it was proved satisfoctory to court that notice had been posted for final settlement. Total of account was $1472.87 cents and entitled to credits to the amounts of $1192.22 leaving a balance of $282.65 in the hands of the late sheriff and due the estate.(If I read this correctly it then says) that the late sheriff Sowell Jennings be awarded the sum of $282.65 and be discharged. page 461 John Hart Sheriff of said county appointed to Ex officio Administrator of the Estate of Sunnah wiggins Book 22 page 228 and 229 April 10,1866 this day come John Hart, Sheriff and makes his report in writing giving the Inventory of notes and accounts belonging to the said estate which was sworn to and ordered to be filed and recorded. and consisting of notes, bonds which have come to his knowledge.
This is a total owed the estate of Susanna, mostly by her children and grandchildren $978.70 and due Probate court of Morgan County, Alabama $282.65. April 1995 From the way these notes are put together it seemed they owed Susanna but in the next series of papers copied it appears that Susanna owes these notes. More study to be done. In Book 20 page 463 1863 these heirs are listed James (H), Mary, Matthew, Mary, Eliza J. married John Brown, Frances, Bright ,Walter, James and Sarah Ann Aycock, James Wiggins, William Wiggins, Marcella Carter married ___Carter, Mary Ann House, wife of William B. House, Josephine W. Wiggins, Jesse Wiggins, Anna Herring, Lucy McDonald, Susan Harris, Harriett Key. Another page names these as non residents of Alabama: James, William, Jesse Wiggins, Marcella Carter and Mary Ann House. Also mentions these minors: Frances, Bright, Walter, James and Sarah A. Aycock and Josephine W.(Josephine had earlier been in Marshall County MS but she is not included as a non resident of AL.) In Feb. 1869 only minors listed are Matthew, Josephine, James and Sarah Aycock and Jacob L. has died and his Administrator is mentioned. More About SUSANNA LASSITER: Burial: 1861, Herring Cemetery, Morgan County, Alabama
Children of NANCY HERRING and ROBERT TAYLOR are:
13. BRIGHT4 HERRING (MARY3 BRIGHT, SIMON2, JOHN1) was born 1755 in Dobbs County, North Carolina, and died April 1828 in Montgomery County, Tennessee. He married SUSANNA Abt. 1773. She was born Abt. 1760, and died 1857 in Montgomery Co., TN?. Notes for BRIGHT HERRING: Evidently this family moved to Sumner Co. TN, then Christian Co., Ky then settled in Montgomery Co. TN. near Clarksville.
Children of BRIGHT HERRING and SUSANNA are:
Notes for SIMON HERRING: Simon was killed while serving as Sheriff of Montgomery Co. TN. He had heirs, (Perhaps 4? So as to be $1.00 each?RP) Herring Highlights II by James Grimwood, Houston, TX)
14. GRAVES4 BRIGHT (SIMON3, SIMON2, JOHN1) was born Abt. 1769 in Craven Co. NC, and died Abt. October 1803 in Lenoir Co. NC. He married CATHERINE SHEPPARD 6 September 1789 in Dobbs County, NC8, daughter of BENJAMIN SHEPPARD and MARTHA ?JONES?. Notes for GRAVES BRIGHT: 1757-1803 Listed "of Dobbs" in a land deed 1789 and of Glasgow, (Now Greene) in 1795. Craven County Book 27 page 172, 9 November 1789
Book 32 page 314 Craven County 28 March 1795 Graves Bright of Glasgow (now Greene) to Spyers Singleton for 495 pounds 15 shilling current money, land on Batchelor's Creek and Jumping Run and being land Richard Graves deceased, devised by LW&T to said Graves Bright (except 200 acres which Graves sold to Silas Sears Stevenson) 1500 acres. Wit: Susanna Purse, Mary Purse N.B. Mrs. Ann Crawford's life estate is excepted in the forgoing deed signed Graves Bright. The heirs mentioned of Simon, Graves brother came to be attached to Graves for more than one reason but the names of Benjamin and Martha as Bright children had been non existant until this family and it is logical to assume Catherine would name 2 of her children after her parents. In the will of Richard Graves, the Uncle of Graves Bright through his Mother made his will 3 May 1774 and leaves his nephew, Graves Bright, son of Simonthe land and mills where I now live known by the name of Jumping Run, with all lands adjoining thereunto in sundry patents, with all my household and kitchen furntiure also my negro boy Quash, all my feather beds after the death of my wife Ann Graves, which said lands, negros, and other things mentioned I give to my nephew Graves Bright, his heirs and assigns forever.He also leaves to Graves and another nephew the upper part of a tract where my father last dwelt and also leaves to him my boy Gabe, my negro boy Jem. This will was proved the 4th day of June 1774 in Craven Co. NC. The above reference to life estate of Mrs. Ann Crawford evidently is Richard Graves wife Ann who remarried to a Crawford. Graves Bright is listed on the 1793 Voters Records of Greene Co. NC as listed on the Greene Co. Archives web page.
Children of GRAVES BRIGHT and CATHERINE SHEPPARD are:
Notes for JAMES HOOKER: This is probably the James Hooker listed in the 1793 Voters Records in Greene Co. found on the Greene Co. nC Archives web page.
15. JAMES4 BRIGHT (SIMON3, SIMON2, JOHN1) was born Abt. 1770, and died 29 June 1840 in Pensacola, FL. He married ELIZABETH LOVICK 13 June 1796. She died 15 August 1858 in Pensacola, FL. Notes for JAMES BRIGHT: 1770-1840 In the manuscript by William D. Bennett of NC received from NC State Library "Bright's of Lenoir Co. NC" is given the name Ann Heritage Bright as their daughter born 22 August 1799, but it is not given in the Bible Record of Dobbs by Wm. L. Murphy. There is given a daughter Henrietta Elizabeth Bright 21 February 1812. Both are daughters, according to Francis R. Hodges. He received 500 acres and 160 acres, 2 tracts of land in fathers will.
16. ELIZABETH4 BRIGHT (SIMON3, SIMON2, JOHN1) was born Abt. 1775 in Dobbs County, NC. She married WILLIAM LOVICK, son of GEORGE LOVICK. He was born Abt. 1768, and died 1 May 1856 in Lenoir County, NC. Child of ELIZABETH BRIGHT and WILLIAM LOVICK is:
17. SIMON4 BRIGHT (JAMES3, SIMON2, JOHN1) was born 1793, and died October 184911. He married RACHEL DAWSON, daughter of THOMAS DAWSON. Children of SIMON BRIGHT and RACHEL DAWSON are:
18. MARY4 BRIGHT (JAMES3, SIMON2, JOHN1) was born Abt. 1785. She married HENRY THOMAS PRIDGEN, JR., son of THOMAS PRIDGEN and MARY RUFFIN. Child of MARY BRIGHT and HENRY PRIDGEN is:
19. JOHN4 BRIGHT (STOCKWELL3, WILLIAM2, JOHN1) was born Abt. 1760, and died 1807 in Craven Co., NC. He married MOURNING. Notes for JOHN BRIGHT: 1760-1807 Book 29 page 47, 2 November 1790, Samuel Smyth to John Bright for 130 pounds 100 acres on north side of Swift Creek and east side of Maul's Run part of a plantation for 185 acres and c with Lewis Bryan Wit: Wm Smythe, James Gatlin, proved June court 1791, S. Chapman CC Book 38 page 424, Jennett Bright of Craven for love and affection to loving brother James Bright , furniture and negros. Wit: Sally Taylor proved March term 1813 J.G. Stanly CC Book 43 page 322, 20 January 1823, Simon Bright, planter for $500.00 conveys to Polly Bright (Mary) a tract of land on east side of Swift Creek beginning at Maul's Run being the dividing line between Jennet Wiggins, said Simon Bright running with said line over the road to John Bryan's line and 119 acres. Wit: James Bright, John Bright proved August Court 1823 Book 44 page 445, 27 December 1825
Deed Book 48 page 11 23 Sept. 1828 between William Bright, James Bright, Robert Bright, Joseph Wiggins and Jennet his wife all of Craven of one part and William Bright of Pitt of the other part, we the said William, James, Robert, Joseph Wiggins and Jennet his wife for the sum of $5. paid by William Bright one tract on the north side of the Neuse River about 6 miles above Newbern containing 100 acres. Also another tract joining this tract of 100 acres the east side of said tract containing 100 acres which said tracts were willed away by William Bright near 70 years ago, reference to said will, will more nearly show. Witness John B. Dawson and William Bright, signed by William Bright and Robert Bright. This is where they buy back the land sold by Elenor Bright, Francis Nickles and Mary Nickles. (Book 1 Page 608-609) see notes on Elenor. Deed Book 52 page 324 Nathan Whitford and wife Hannah and Jennet Wiggins all of Craven sell to Denum Mumford of Newbern land containing 200 acres in Craven on East side of Neuse joining lands of Shadrack Gatlin, Riley Caten, and Dorum Mumford for 30 dollars, land which descended to Hannah and Jennett from their grandfather Stockwell Bright. (abstracted by Agness Gunter) Witness:L Slade, Bryan Whitford Hannah Whitford was privately examined as to her free consent Deed Book 54 page 180 14 May 1838 Nathan Whitford and Elizabeth Wiggins, both of Craven, Nathan Whitford pd E. Wiggins $30. for land on E. side of Big Swift Creek distinguished in the estate of John Bright Sr. by #3 in the division among heirs. John Bright Sr. to Jennett Wiggins and transferred from Jennett to James Bright and from James Bright to Elizabeth WigginsWit: David Willia, Bryan Whitford,, Elizabeth X Wiggins Book 54 page 321 9 March 1840 between Joseph Wiggins and Levi Wayne land on N. side of Neuse on south side of Swift Creek. 100 acres for $150.00 Beginning at Reedy Branch and running south 46 degrees, west 98 poles to a tree the north 65 degrees west 150 poles to a tree then north 46 degrees 72 poles then north 77 degrees east 101 poles to a tree then to the beginning, containing 100 acres belonging to a patent granted to Shadrack (Stockwell) Bright 1 May 1772 Wit: M.N. Strict and John Bryan, May Court 1840 Joseph X Wiggins Craven County Clerks Loose Papers:
Hannah Bright was minor in 1815. Account of Sales of John Bright deceased filed March 1808 mentions Mrs. Bright, James, William and Jennet Bright and Lewis Bryan Admr. Craven Co. deed Book 52 page 151 18 July 1836 (Abstracted by Agness Gunter) James Bright of Craven and Elizabeth Wiggins.. On 23 day of may 1812 Jennet Wiggins by deed of that date duly proved certain lands and negros described in her own right or maiden property being about to enter into bonds of matrimony with Joseph Wiggins and the comtemplated marriage was shortly thereafter solomnized did by deed of date above convey for love and affection to James Bright her brother title to certain lands, negros and personal property which said deed was intended as a marriage settlement the said Wiggins her intended husband being in debt whereas the said property has been enjoyed since that date by Elizabeth and her husband Joseph and family.
John Bright is listed in 1790 Craven Co. census with himself and wife and 2 males under 16. Children of JOHN BRIGHT and MOURNING are:
Notes for WILLIAM BRIGHT: 1778- after 1833 Land deed in Book 50 page 118 has William and wife Mary in Pitt Co. NC in 1833.
Endnotes 1. Sec.of St (NC) Original Wills, Elizabeth Handcock, Loose Papers, NC Archives, says Simon Bright (her son) is brother in law of Francis Hodges, mentions her daughter Ledey (Lydia) Handcock and two daughters of Lydia, Elizabeth and Mary. 2. Wills of Hyde Co. NC, written 29 march 1735, no probate date listed, Wife Anna only heir mentioned. 3. Will in Hyde Co. NC, Wm. Doab Bennett said in his manuscript"Bright's of Lenoir Co." his will written 28 Nov.1731 proved March 1731/32, mentioning sons James and Simon. 4. Will in Craven Co. NC, written 12 January 1754 proved 6 November1754, see William Bright notes for copy and more details. 5. New Bern Records, Deed Book 19, 309. 6. 1830 Lenoir Co. NC census, list Mary in 80-90 year old bracket, not listed in 1840. 7. Christian Co. KY Marriages, Says Spiras Herring married Polly Hatcher, daughter of Uriah Hatcher on date given. 8. Treasurers & Comptrollers papers County Settlement NC Archives, The report from the Clerk of Court listing state Taxes collected for 1789 gave names of grooms with marriage license issue, no bride included. 9. Bright's of Lenoir Co. by Wm. Doab Bennett, says Mary is mentioned as Mary House and has died but has heirs. 10. Simon Bright vs Jesse Cobb, Richard G. Bright is a Minor in 1802. 11. 1850 Mortality Schedule Lenoir Co. NC, listed having died Oct 1849 at age 57. 12. Craven Co.NC Land Deed Records , Book 44, 118, John's Estate papers list her as Polly but land deed cited shows her as Mary. |