Misc. Notes

Initial data from Pedigree Chart prepared by Tim Peterman, Oct. 2003. His data connecting our "Robinson" branch to Thomas was, however, somewhat weak. However in 2004 Tim had some DNA testing done which confirmed his (our) relationship to the Robinson family tabulated in the following source:

The following information has been taken, unless otherwise noted, from “Robertson Robinson Roberson Robison: Descendants of Thomas and Elizabeth: Henrico County, Virginia, 1690-1999” compiled by Betty Robertson Riley, Knoxville, TN. (Betty sent Fred Coffey a copy of her book, June 2004.) Betty's material has been somewhat abridged and paraphrased below, but all the material is clearly Betty's. If more detail is desired you should consult the original source.

NOTE ON DOUBLE DATES:

Prior to 1752, March 25 was the beginning of a new year. A change was made in 1752 to adopt the reformed calendar of Pope Gregory XIII. The Gregorian calendar was known as the new style. The old style was that of Julius Caesar and was called the Julian or old style calendar. After adopting the new calendar, it was customary to give dates prior to 1752, between January 1 and March 25, both Julian and Gregorian calendar dates - - first the old year date with the new year date annexed, e.g. "January 1631/32".

ABOUT THE FAMILY NAME:

The names Robertson, Robinson, Roberson and Robison were often used interchangeably in early records. Few people could read or write and clerks who were hired to write legal records spelled names as best they could. A person's name was often spelled different ways in the same record. Individuals should not conclude that a person couldn't be on their family tree because of the way their name was spelled. The documented record should prove the person's identity.

BACKGROUND:

Thomas Robinson and his wife Elizabeth are our earliest known Robinson ancestors, and they are first found living on Gilley's creek in Henrico County, Virginia about 1690. While we can speculate about their earlier origins, there is not presently any firm information.

Thomas' descendents have family traditions concerning their heritage. One branch believes they were Welsh, another believes English. The writer believes our ancestors probably made their way from Scotland to Wales to England. The introduction of the above book has considerable discussion about possible origins of our family in Europe.

Because of the area where Thomas Robinson is first found, it is quite possible that he descended from some of the original settlers of the Jamestown colony. One of those settlers was a "Gentleman John Robinson", and one can speculate that he might be an ancestor. Another possibility is a James Robeson who was on a list of men sent to the colonies under royal charter during the years 1609-1615. In 1618 and 1620 there were other candidates documented – Henry Robinson, Esq., Arthur Robinson, Robert Robinson, John Robinson, and Richard Robins. And there are many more candidates. Also is the possibility that Thomas Robinson was himself an immigrant, and that he was not born in Virginia. The introduction of the above book has considerable discussion about the Jamestown colony and other early explorers and colonists – it does make interesting reading, but overwhelms my typing ability.

ABOUT HENRICO COUNTY:

The Jamestown colonists left London on December 20, 1606. On June 2, 1607, Christopher Newport led an expedition up to James River from Jamestown. Near the site of present-day Richmond they came to an "overfall" of water known to the colonists as "The Falles". In 1609 Captain Francis West was sent to make a settlement at the falls that he named for himself – West Fort. This attempt was soon abandoned, but in 1611 Sir Thomas Dale, with between 300-350 men, returned and fortified seven acres for a town which he called Henrico in honor of Prince Henry, son of King James I of England. However after an Indian massacre in 1622 this area was almost depopulated, and by 1625 only 22 inhabitants remained, waiting for a slower migration northward as the Indian tribes were defeated. This land near the falls was known as World's End and this is where our Thomas and Elizabeth were living in 1690.

In 1634, this area would be part of Henrico County, one of the original eight shires of the Virginia Colony. Counties were divided into parishes of the Church of England and those parishes kept records. Wills and deeds usually included the parish name. The names of creeks were often used to identify different areas, and these names often changed as the landowners changed. Crowley's Creek, Little Run, and Gilley's Creek were the same. Chyinck Creek and Shocooe Creek were the same. Almond Creek and Field's Creek were the same.

FINDING THE RIGHT ANCESTOR:

Many of the early Henrico County records are missing, including the wills and deeds that would have been primary evidence for our ancestry. Therefore, rather than a single will or transfer of property, we must include extensive records to prove that Thomas Robertson (Robinson) and his wife Elizabeth were the parents of our John Robinson who married Tabitha Jones.

There were two men named Robertson (Robinson) living on Gilley's Creek, Henrico County, Virginia about 1690 who were of age to be the father of our John who married Tabitha. They were Thomas and John (so closely associated that we believe they were brothers) who both witnessed the will of Charles Snuggs (Scruggs) in 1718/19. Thomas and John both had sons named John. Thomas and John both had their names recorded as Robertson and Robinson in early record books.

(I've left out the extensive discussion wherein Betty shows that "John the son of John" was in the wrong place and the wrong time to have been the John who married Tabitha. That left "John the son of Thomas" as the only remaining candidate for our ancestor.)

ABOUT THOMAS ROBINSON:

The first record we found for our Thomas Robertson (as spelled in that record) was in 1690 at which time he bought 100 acres of land from Gilley Grumarrin of Henrico County for1000 pounds of tobacco. The land "near Pequanock" had been granted to Gilly Grumarrin by patent, (Henrico Co., VA W/D 1688-1697, pp. 122, 123). Thomas had been farming in Virginia long enough to have 1000 pounds of tobacco to pay for his first recorded land, but we have no clue as to where he had been living prior to 1690.

(The book spends considerable time reviewing neighbors of Thomas and Elizabeth. Among others, they are believed to have had family ties with the ancestors of President Thomas Jefferson.)

Thomas and Elizabeth sold their 100 acres (above) to Giles Webb in February of 1692. They then bought 200 acres from this same Giles Webb for 3000 pounds of tobacco. Following is the deed for this purchase – it makes fascinating reading with its wordiness, lack of punctuation, and use of things like a "hickory sapling" and "shrub black oak" as survey markers. Words that could not be deciphered are noted (…).

"To all whom these presents (documents) shall come Giles Webb of the County of Henrico send greeting know ye that the said Giles Web for and in consideration of the sum of three thousand pounds of good tobacco in cask (barrel) to me in hand paid before the sealing and delivery of these presents by Thomas Robbinson of the aforesaid County the receipt whereof paid by these presents acknowledge myself to be thereof and personally satisfied and paid thereof and every part and parcel thereof do acquit exonerate and discharge the said Tho. Robbinson his heirs executors administrators forever by these presentations grant bargain and sell and by these presents fully freely and absolutely grant bargain and sell unto the said Tho. Robinson two hundred acres of land lying and being in the county and parish of Henrico aforesaid and on the north side of the James River being bounded as followeth: beginning at a hickory sapling… row oaks marked on the line north to it which borders Sam A. Bridgewaters line on his lower side of Gilleys Creek and running thence south by west one hundred and twenty eight chains of … poles to a chain… a pine… laying on the head line from the creek of this land formerly patented by John Bayly and by him and aforesaid wife sold Giles Webb of which it is a part then along that line east sixty two chains to a small shrub black oak thence north by east about one hundred sixty chains to Gilleys Creek thence down the said creek bounds to Bridgewaters line then along his said line to the line where it began all together with all houses orchards fences cleared ground ways and water ways water courses timber timberwood improvements privileges and appurtenances whatsoever the said two hundred acres of land or any part thereof with all my right title claim and demand for all intents and purposes as the said Giles Webb might or could have enjoyed if the same had been granted unto him by patent to have and to hold the said two hundred acres of land or any part of the same… before bargained and sold with the appurtenances to this land Thomas Robbinson his heirs executors administrators and assignees forever…" Signed Giles Webb. No Date. No Witnesses.

Our Thomas Robinson made his mark using the capital letters "TR" rather than the usual "X". Thomas' brother John signed his name on the documents we have found. We believe Thomas and John had received some education.

He is referred to as "planter", which had come to denote social rank and was interchangeable with "gentleman". Lesser persons were occasionally addressed as "Goodman" or "Goodwife." The term "Esquire" was used after the name of a man of highest rank. Planters wanted to acquire enough land to be able to seat each son on his own estate, and daughters were given a dowry at marriage.

In 1739/40 Thomas Robinson, planter, gave his 200 acres of land on Gilley's Creek to his sons Thomas and George. In that deed he named his son John who had now patented land in Goochland County (and thus would have had no need for a share of the Gilley's Creek land). He had already given land on Gilley's Creek to his son, Alexander. And thus we know the names of his sons. We do not know if he and Elizabeth had any daughters.

Thomas died in 1741. His will could not be found, but the following Court Order dated October, 1741, was found: "Will of Thomas Robertson presented by George Robertson, executor, and proved by witnesses." (Henrico Co., VA, Court Orders 1737-1746, p. 158).

Misc. Notes

The following is taken from “Robertson Robinson Roberson Robison: Descendants of Thomas and Elizabeth: Henrico County, Virginia, 1690-1999” compiled by Betty Robertson Riley, Knoxville, TN. See the notes with John's father Thomas for more discussion. See also notes with John's wife, Tabitha Jones.

John and Tabitha lived on his father’s Gilley’s Creek land (on the north side of the James river, near present day Richmond) at least through June of 1733, when John Robinson, William Bradshaw, and William Hudson presented the inventory of Joseph Wood’s estate at court (Henrico Co. VA, W/D 1725-1737, p. 396). They were gone from this land by 1739/40 when a deed of land from John’s father Thomas to John’s brothers gave away land where John Robinson “formerly dwelt”.

Sometime after 1733, John Robinson and William Bradshaw (who had married Tabitha's half sister) took their families about thirty miles west along the James River to the Muddy Creek, Deep Creek area in Goochland County, Virginia. On a present day map this would be about five miles east of Carterville, Virginia. This land would become part of Cumberland County by 1748. Their new land was on the south side of the James River, so they had to cross the river with all their possessions and cattle. These frontiersmen moved along the James River using it as a highway, so they may have loaded their barges on the north shore in Henrico County and unloaded on the south shore in Goochland County.

Goochland County was named in honor of William Gooch, Lt. Governor of Virginia. In 1728, when Goochland County was formed from Henrico County, there were only a few white settlers south of the James River. Many parcels of land were granted by patent between 1720 and 1736 but people were reluctant to move to the wilderness. There were a few roads and ferries, planned mainly to allow residents to get to the courthouse, and to accommodate wealthy residents.

John and Tabitha would probably have preferred to select land closer to Gilley's Creek, but William Mayo owned all the land on the south side of the James River from Manakin Creek (near Gilley's Creek) to Deep Creek. Mayo had patented his 9350 acres in 1730. By 1737, John and Tabitha had settled on Deep Creek, just beyond Mayo's large patent of land.

On 20 July 1738 John Robinson (planter) and Tabitha were granted two patents of land in Goochland County. One was 400 acres, and the second was 580 acres. Following is part of the text of one patent. (Today we would say "Virginia hereby grants John Robinson 580 acres in return for a fee of three pounds and a promise to cultivate 6% within 3 years." However the colonial lawyers were obviously paid by the word!)

"George the Second by the Grace of God of Great Britain, France and Ireland King Defender of the Faith. To all to whom these presents shall come greeting know ye that for divers good causes and consideration but more especially for and in consideration of the sum of three pounds of good and lawful money for our use paid to our receiver general of our revenues in this Colony and Dominion of Virginia. We have given granted and confirmed and by these presents for us our heirs and successors do give grant or confirm unto John Robinson Planter one certain tract or parcel of land containing five hundred and eighty acres… cultivating and improving three acres part of every fifty of the tract above mentioned within three years after the date of these presents… In witness whereof we have caused these our letters patent to be made witness our trusty and well loved William Gooch Esquire our Lieutenant Governor and Commander in Chief of our said Colony and Dominion at Williamsburg under the seal of our said Colony the twentieth day of July one thousand seven hundred and thirty eight in the twelfth year of our reign." Signed William Gooch (VA Patent Book 18, pp. 69,70)

The typical Virginia Planter wanted enough land to be able to seat each son on his own estate. John and Tabitha now owned 980 acres of land, and began to give land to their sons. Thomas Jr. got 200 acres in 1741, Field got 200 acres in 1743, Christopher got 175 acres in 1743, Joseph (our ancestor) got 200 acres in 1763, and Edward got 200 acres in 1763. Hezekiah was given a slave in 1762.

Here is the will of John Robinson:

"In the name of God amen I John Roberson, of Cumberland county being sick and weak of body but of perfect sence and memory thanks be to God to make and ordain this my last will and testament hereby revoking and disannulling all other wills or writings heretofore by me made for this purpose do make and ordain this my last will and testament in manner and form following Vz.

I give and bequeath my soul to almighty God that gave it and my body to the earth to be decently buried at the discretion of my executors hereafter named and my worldly goods I give as followeth. Item I give and bequeath to my four grandchildren John Roberson Susannah Roberson Elizabeth Roberson and Joseph Roberson my Negro man Jack to be equally divided amongst them when my aforesaid grandson John Roberson shall arrive to the age of twenty one years and 'til that time he the said Negro Jack to be under the care and direction of my son Joseph Roberson for the support and maintainance of my four grand children above named. Item I give and bequeath to my sons John Roberson, Thomas Roberson, Field Roberson, Christopher Roberson, Edward Roberson, Joseph Roberson, and Hezekiah Roberson one shilling sterling out of my estate they having before received their equal parts of my estate to that sum. Item I give and bequeath to my three daughters Susanah Bradshew Judith Bradshew and Elizabeth Hogan all the rest of my estate to be equally divided between them only reserving seven pounds which has already been paid to William Bradshew my will is that he allows two thirds of that money out of his part of my estate to the other two namely Judith Bradshew and Elizabeth Hogan after paying my just debts and funeral expences. Lastly I nominate and appoint my sons in law Field Bradshew and William Bradshew whole and sole executors of this my last will and testament In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this eleventh day of December in the year of our Lord 1767." Signed John (R) Roberson. Recorded at court 25 April 1768. Field Bradshaw, Josiah Bradshaw and Daniel Russell, security. (Cumberland County, VA, W/D Book 1, p. 343)

The grandchildren, named in his will, may have been orphans, although we found no record of another son.

Adcock Hobson, John Hobson and Wm. Clarke appraised John's estate. It was presented at court 25 April 1768 and valued at 122 pounds, 2 shillings, 6 pence. Included were: 11 head of cattle, 16 head of hogs, 1 young horse, 1 old horse, 1 old cart, 1 Negro man Jack, a parcel of plantation tools, 2 plows and gear, 1 swaddle and bridle, a parcel of leather, 1 old chest, 6 old chairs, 2 old tables, a parcel of pewter, 1 spice morter and pestle, a parcel of knives and forks, 1 old box iron and a parcel of earthen ware, 1 pot hogs lard, a parcel of old delf ware, 2 iron pots and hooks, 1 frying pan, 1 hand saw, a parcel of old casks and water vessels, 2 old meal sives, 1 pair old fire tongs, a parcel of old lumber, a parcel of bacon, a parcel of salt, some sope, a parcel of corn, a parcel of tubbs, 1 cow hide. (Cumberland County, VA, W/D Book 1, p. 347).

Misc. Notes

See notes with husband John for the source of the following information:

The documents below get complicated, so let me first identify the players: Tabitha Jones was the daughter of Edward Jones and Mary Field Jones. When Edward died, Mary became the owner of his land, and she subsequently remarried to Charles Scruggs. Charles had also been previously married, and had a daughter Juda Scruggs Bradshaw, who had married William Bradshaw. Thus Juda was Tabitha's half-sister. In Charles Scruggs' will, William and Juda Bradshaw got the land, and William Bradshaw (executor of the estate) subsequently divided the land with all the other Jones and Scruggs heirs, including Tabitha and her husband John Robinson. When Charles Scruggs died, Tabitha and John had already been married about 5 years and had several children. Spellings of names, as usual, is flexible:

Will of Charles Snuggs (Scruggs), planter: "I give and bequeath to my Granddaughter Mary Pirront a heifer with calf orn calf (with her own calf) by her side. An item I give Mary Pirront one yoe the choice of my flock. Item I give and bequeath to my son William Bratcher (Bradshaw) and to my Dafter Juda all my worldly goods and possessions that now is called mine to them and their heirs for ever." William Bratcher (Bradshaw) was named executor of the estate. Thomas Cardwell, John Robertson, Thomas Robertson (our ancestor) and William Eslee (Easley) witnessed the will which was written 20 December, 1718, and probated 2 February, 1718/19. (Misc. Henrico County, VA, Court Records 1650-1807 Part 2 p. 425) Inventory of the estate was made 30 March 1718, by Thomas Cardwell, Thomas Robertson, and Thomas Wood and recorded at court 6 April 1719. (Ibid, p. 447)

William Bradshaw, executor, then divided the land between the heirs as follows:

4 April 1720 – William Bradley, William Bradshaw and John Robertson consented to the division of two tracts of land on the north side of the James River, each 220 acres, formerly in the tenure of Charles Scruggs, bounded by the James River. Tract 1: "John Robertson's part beginneth at Mary Pyrant's (spelled Pirront in the will) corner stake on the river bank and runneth along the said Mary Pyrant's line to the back line and along the back line to Wm. Bradly's corner stake and along the said Bradly's line to the river and down the river to the place where it first began." Tract 2: "John Robertson's part beginneth at William Bradshaw's white oak corner in the back line of the river tract and runneth along the said line thirteen chains to a corner hickory in the said line then by a line east four degrees north to part the said John Robertson and William Bradly." (Henrico Co., VA, Misc.l Court Records Book 2, 1718-1726, p. 481).

See notes with husband John Robinson for more discussion of John and Tabitha.

Misc. Notes

Note: I found several ancestry.com sources for Joseph’s parents John Robinson and Tabitha Jones that identify several children of Joseph, but NOT Moses. There also seem to be problems with dates. However there is some discussion under Moses’ notes that suggest a connection.

The following is taken from “Robertson Robinson Roberson Robison: Descendants of Thomas and Elizabeth: Henrico County, Virginia, 1690-1999” compiled by Betty Robertson Riley, Knoxville, TN. See notes with his grandfather Thomas for more information.

See notes with father, John Robinson, for references to Joseph in his father's will.

Joseph is found in several other court documents:

In 1761, Joseph witnessed the will of his nephew Charles Bradshaw. Joseph witnessed the deed of gift of a slave from his father John to his brother Hezekiah in 1762.

In June of 1763, John Robinson gave his son Joseph Robinson 200 acres of land: "that tract or dividend of land upon which he and I now live, only keeping and reserving to myself an uninterrupted property in the same during my natural life, which said land is a part of 580 acres of land granted to be by patent dated July 11, 1738."

Joseph was the guardian of his sister's three daughters, Phebe, Sarah and Drucilla Holloway in 1767 and 1768. (Cumberland Co., VA, W/D book 1, p. 433)

The above book by Betty Robertson Riley names the children of Joseph and Jane as "Candice, Joseph, Archer, Moses, Asa, Jean and John". Moses is likely our ancestor. No further data is offered. However Betty also includes a "correction" in her book, submitted by Kendra Hoffman of Beatrice, Nebraska, which offers a different list of names: "Candice, Susannah, Archer, Moses, John, and Tabitha". This latter list is entirely consistent with the will information reported below, and thus seems more plausible.

WIFE FAMILY CONNECTION:

Adolphus Hendrick was the father of Jane Hendrick, wife of Joseph Robinson. His will left a slave "Nan" to his daughter Jane Robinson, but he then proceeded to gift separately some of the "possessions" named in his will: Thus on 20 Feb 1759, Adolphus Hendrick made a deed of gift of the same slave Nan to his daughter Jane and her husband Joseph Robinson.

BOSTICK - ROBINSON/ROBERTSON CONNECTION:

The remainder of this text is taken from the “Bostick Newsletter Online”, which helps connect Joseph to his children Moses, Archer, and Tabitha:

John Bostick married Tabitha Robinson 6 Jul 1785 Cumberland Co, VA. The family later lived in Halifax Co, VA, where John died, leaving a widow and several children. John's will is dated 29 Nov 1795 and is recorded in Halifax Co Will Book 3, pg 216. In the will he names his wife Tabitha and children Charles, Moses, John, & Gene. Archer Robinson was one of the executors of John's will. Tabitha was appointed guardian to her children. [Halifax Co Court Order Book 17, pg 353]

Tabitha Robinson Bostick was the daughter of Joseph Robinson as shown in his will in Halifax Co, VA Will Bk 9, pg 149, dated 1 Sep 1811. Joseph names sons Moses, Archer and John; daughter Tabitha Bostick; daughter Susannah West and her husband John; wife Jean; daughter Candice Robinson and grandsons Joseph A. and Isa Robinson, sons of Archer.

On 12 Jul 1811 [Halifax Co Deed Book 23, pg 303] Tabitha Bostick, widow of John Bostick dec'd of Halifax Co, VA, conveyed to Charles Bostick, Moses Bostick and Jane Adams, wife of Joshua Adams (late Jane Bostick) her dower interest in land belonging to John Bostick dec'd. This deed was witnessed by Archer Robertson, Joseph A. Robertson, John Bostick, Flemoning Hancock and John Adams.

Sometime after this date, Tabitha's sons went to Tennessee, possibly with Robinson relatives. On Nov 1811, Charles Bostick of Sullivan Co, TN conveyed to Joshua Adams, land of his father, John Bostick, on Snakehorn Creek. Among the witnesses were John and Moses Bostick. [Halifax Co Deed Bk 23, pg 311]

On 9 Oct 1821, Jeptha Durham of Morgan Co, AL conveyed 200 acres in Smith Co, TN to Charles Bostick [Smith Co Deed Bk H, pgs 343-4] On 8 Feb 1823, Charles Bostick conveyed a Negro man to John Duncan. [Smith Co Deed Bk H, pg 364] Then, on 5 May 1834, John Bostick conveyed to Archer Robertson, his interest in the estate of Moses Bostick. [Smith Co Deed Bk L, pgs 517-8] Moses Bostick's estate inventory had been filed May 1818 by

Stephen Robinson Sr wrote a will in Smith Co 11 Mar 1828. Listed among his heirs were his daughter Nancy Bostick dec'd and her children Jane, Betsy, John, Polly Anne Bostick. Moses Robinson was one of the executors of Stephen's will.

The spelling of the surname has been seen as both Robinson and Roberson. Some marriages for the children in Posey Co have been interpreted as Roberson. After the family went to Knox Co, Illinois all records have the spelling as Robinson. Several deeds and/or land grants in Sullivan Co, TN make reference to Moses as witness or living on adjoining property, prior to his grants in 1790 and 1793, the earliest mention found being 1782 mentioning a Roberson who could be Moses or a relative. There is reason to suspect that Moses may have been the son of a Joseph Robinson. A Joseph's will in Halifax Co, VA dated 1811 names children Archer, Moses, John, Tabitha (wife of John Bostick), Susannah (wife of John West), Candice, wife Jean and grandsons Joseph A. and Isa, sons of Archer. (The names Moses, Archer and Tabitha are reoccurring in the Robinson lines.) There is no Rebecca ( see comments aboout rebecca below) The sons of Tabitha were known to have gone to TN also. Although this Moses Robinson was in TN decades before the death of Joseph in VA, the naming traditions are a strong suggestion of relation.

The following are notes taken from the database for my husband's family. In reference to one Rebecca Robinson b. 1748 of Bladen Co, NC who married Andrew McClellan 1777 and located for awhile to Sullivan Co, TN. I am searching for a link of these Robinsons.

"I believe that Rebecca ties into the following family somehow: There was another family of Robinson's that were in Sullivan Co, TN in same time frame as Rebecca and her husband, Andrew. One Moses Robinson who was also born in NC. There is most likely a relation of Rebecca to this other Robinson/Roberson family as they all went to Sullivan Co, TN in same time frame. Moses Robinson, his wife Sarah Moody and children Archer, Joseph, Moses Jr., Moody, Polly, Jane, John and a possible daughter Rhoda later ended up in Posey Co, Indiana. Archer, Moody, Moses, Jane and Polly all later went on with their spouses to Knox County, Illinois in the mid 1830's. Polly, Jane and Archer all married Aldredge's who were siblings of my ggg-grandfather Ezechiel. Rhoda married a 1st cousin of these Aldredge's. I'm sure these Robinson's must tie into Rebecca but have not yet found proof of such. Due to ages it is possible that Rebecca was a sister or cousin of Moses. Rebecca also named a son Moses and a daughter Rhoda." ******NOTE: AS of March 2003 I think I am incorrect about Rhoda Roberson being a daughter of Moses.****

LFC NOTES: Sullivan County

Moses Robinson in found in the 1796 and 1797 tax lists for Sullivan County. Interestingly, there is also a “Catherine Robinson” in same lists – is there a connection?

Year 1796 is when Tennessee became a state. The land grant/sales in 1790 and 1793 would be after North Carolina ceded the area to the federal government. And would be after the abortive attempt to form a new state called “Franklin” in the area.

LFC NOTES, 1820 CENSUS, INDIANA, POSEY COUNTY, BLACK TWP:

Family of Moses Roberson (sic) seems a very good fit. There is one male under 10 (Moody), 2 males 10-16 (Moses II and John), 1 male 16-26 (Archer), 1 male 26-45 (could be Joseph), 1 male over 45 (Moses), 1 female under 10 (Jane), 2 females 10-16 (Polly, and one unidentified), and 1 female over age 45 (Sarah). There are four people engaged in agriculture.

They live next door to a Joseph Roberson, who could be Moses’ son - not clear. They also live next to Polly Kivet -- who’s daughter will ultimately marry Moody

Misc. Notes

Note 1880 census for his son, Moody Jr., says this person was born in “KY”. However the 1860 census for Moody Sr. says “TN”.

1820 CENSUS, INDIANA, POSEY CO., BLACK TWP:

See notes with father. Moody fits into the family children count.

1840 CENSUS, ILLINOIS, KNOX CO:

The census taker thought his name was “Woody” Robinson, but he is clearly there and living not far from his brothers Moses and Archy. He and his wife are both in the 20-30 age range, and they have a son under 5 and a daughter under 5. (These ages would fit children Archy and Sarah, but daughter Hannah is missing - probably Hannah died young? She is also missing in 1850 census.)

1850 CENSUS, ILLINOIS, KNOX CO., VICTORIA TWP.

Moody is 39, a farmer, with $400 in real estate, and born in Tennessee. Wife Mary is 37. Living at home are Sarah 13, John 11, Lucinda 8, Mary 5, and William 3. All the children were born in Illinois.

1855 ILLINOIS CENSUS, KNOX CO:

Everybody seems to be there, 11 children and 2 adults. Two of the males are eligible to serve in the state militia. The family produced livestock with a value of $600, and produced 63 pounds of wool. (Out of the 32 families on that page, only 7 families produced more livestock value.)

1860 CENSUS, ILLINOIS, KNOX CO., VICTORIA:

This census taker had a problem with his pages, with part of the family on page 36 and part on page 41. Moody is a farmer, age 49, with real estate worth $3200 and personal estate of $2200, was born in Tennessee. Mary is 47, born in North Carolina. There are 7 children living at home. John is 21, Lucinda is 18, Mary is 14, Wm is 12, Moody is 10, Amanda is 5, and Enoch is 1. All the children were born in Illinois. They also have two employees. The first name is Johnson Buittey (uncertain last name), age 21. The second name is Sarah Mosher, age 23, and that would HAVE to be their daughter Sarah who married Manford Mosher. (The question is why is she living in Moody’s house and not with her husband? They had a daughter, their only child, who died the previous year, and maybe that has something to do with it? Sarah IS found living with her husband Manfred/Manford/Maynard in the 1870, 1880, and 1900 census.)

1865 ILLINOIS CENSUS, KNOX CO:

There are 6 children at home at home. (Curious: There are 2 males and one female under age 10, and I only have names for 2 males – who was the female?) They produced $1316 worth of livestock, $740 worth of grain, $240 worth of other agricultural products, and 140 pounds of wool.

1870 CENSUS:

Can’t find, although sons Moody Jr. and William are there.

1880 CENSUS, ILLINOIS, KNOX CO., VICTORIA TWP:

Moody is living in the home of his daughter Mary J Mosher, and her husband Simeon and their son. His age is 67, his relationship is “father in law”, and he says his occupation is “staying about”. He has asthma. His daughter Amanda is in this household too. Nearby we find his daughter, Sarah Mosher (who married Manford Mosher, probably the brother of Simeon).

1878 HISTORY: KNOX CO., IL, VICTORIA:

The first settlement made in this township was in 1835, by Edward Brown, John Essex and Mr. Frazier. They were soon followed by John Smith, Wm. Overlander, Moses Robinson, Moody Robinson, Archibald Robinson, Charles Bostic, John Arnold, Passons Aldrige, H. Shurtliff, and Conrad Smith, who settled on section 30 in 1838. In the spring of 1836, the Robinsons came in, locating on section 21. They consisted of three brothers, Moody, Moses and Archibald and their families. Sarah, daughter of Moody Robinson, born November 16, 1836, was the first white child born in the township. Moody Robinson and his wife lived and died on the old homestead, the former 10 March 1881 and the later in November 1869. They reared nine children, all of whom are living. Moses Robinson is still living, but his wife is dead.

The next year, 1858, Miss Marry Garrett... taught the school, as she did for several terms thereafter. She, like all teachers of that day, boarded (with) families who had children... She was staying a week at Moody Robinson's when they had the big storm, May 14, 1858, about five o'clock in the afternoon. It came from the north and blew Robinson's new frame house off the foundation and lodged it against the well. Mrs. Robinson's geese were blown away till she never found them.

FIND-A-GRAVE:

Moody Robinson, age 69 yrs 10 mo 8 days; Gravestone of Moody Robinson 1811-1881, his wife Mary Kivett 1812-1868 and daughter Amanda.; Salem Cemetery, Knox County, Illinois; (Find A Grave.com)

Marriage: 28 Feb 1833

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Spouse: Mary “Polly” KIVET

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Birth: 26 Nov 1815 (or 26 Mar 1813?) Randolph County, North Carolina

Death: 1 Nov 1867 Victoria Twp, Knox Co., Illinois

Burial: Salem Cemetery

Father: Jacob KIVET (1782-1819)

Mother: Mary (Polly) BROWER (~1794-<1824)

Misc. Notes

Born in “KY” according to 1880 census for her son, Moody.

FROM ANCESTRY.COM PAT THOMAS GEDCOM:

Mary is found in the Knox county Portrait and Biographical Album which gives her maiden name.

Mary is found in the 1850 Illinois census, Knox county, Victoria township. She is age 37.

Mary is found in the 1860 Illinois census, Knox county, Victoria township. She is age 47.

I have a marriage record for Mary Kevitt who marries Moody Robinson in Posey county Indiana 2.23.1833.

I believe this Mary to be the daughter of Jacob Kivett and Marry Brower. She is listed as Polly in our records a common nick name for Mary especially since her mother was also Mary. She was born 1813. Her parents are both from NC.

Moody ROBINSON (2 May 1811 - 10 Mar 1881) & Mary “Polly” KIVET (26 Nov 1815 (or 26 Mar 1813?) - 1 Nov 1867)

Hannah ROBINSON (8 Feb 1834 - )

Archy ROBINSON (7 May 1835 - )

Sarah ROBINSON (16 Nov 1836 - 18 Feb 1907)

John Kivett ROBINSON (14 May 1839 - 21 Jul 1926) & Martha Jane ATEN (26 Mar 1843 - 3 Oct 1917)

Perry Allen ROBINSON (9 Jun 1874 - 6 Jan 1945) & Lena Leota COFFEY (1 May 1877 - 2 Aug 1928)

Lucy A ROBINSON (abt 1895 - )

Herman A. ROBINSON (abt 1898 - )

Roy Ronald ROBINSON (6 Nov 1899 - 8 Jan 2000) & Elvessa Lena ELLIS (2 Feb 1905 - 25 Jan 1994)

Ella Louise ROBINSON (28 May 1927 - 23 Mar 1999) & Raymond W. PETERMAN (24 Jun 1918 - )

Timothy E. PETERMAN (8 Jan 1959 - )

Roy Ellis (1930) ROBINSON

Martha Lee (1933) ROBINSON

Lucinda ROBINSON (22 Apr 1842 - 19 Sep 1897)

Mary Jane ROBINSON (27 Sep 1845 - 1915)

William P ROBINSON (5 Apr 1848 - )

Moody ROBINSON (11 Dec 1850 - 22 Mar 1938) & Ellen Arminda ATEN (17 Dec 1849 - 6 Mar 1919)

Amanda ROBINSON (3 Sep 1852 - 7 Jun 1897)

Enoch Wood ROBINSON (8 Sep 1858 - 5 Aug 1939)

Samuel L ROBINSON (11 Aug 1861 - 28 Aug 1917)

Name: Moody ROBINSON

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Birth: 11 Dec 1850 Knox County, Illinois

Death: 22 Mar 1938 Fullerton, California

Burial: Garden Grove, Iowa

Occupation: Farming

Father: Moody ROBINSON (1811-1881)

Mother: Mary “Polly” KIVET (1815-1867)

Thomas ROBINSON (abt 1668 - 1741) & Elizabeth (abt 1668 - )

John ROBINSON (abt 1688 - 1768) & Tabitha JONES (abt 1688 - bef 1768)

Joseph ROBINSON (abt 1735 - 1812) & Jane HENDRICK

Moses ROBINSON ( - 1823) & Sarah MOODY

Moody ROBINSON (2 May 1811 - 10 Mar 1881) & Mary “Polly” KIVET (1815 - 1 Nov 1867)

Moody ROBINSON (11 Dec 1850 - 22 Mar 1938) & Ellen Arminda ATEN (1849 - 1919)

Adelia Gertrude ROBINSON (12 Sep 1878 - 16 Jan 1973) & Newton COFFEY (1875 - 1969)

Leo Newton COFFEY (22 Jul 1901 - 26 Oct 1998) & Elsie Maureen WALKER (1903 – 1983)

Fred

Misc. Notes

Moody Robinson and Ellen (Aten) lived in Wayne County, Iowa and were among the first settlers there. They raised their children in Wayne County, but in 1911 they moved to Fullerton, California, where Ellen died in 1919. (When he moved to California, son-in-law Newton bought his farm.) Nearly every summer he came back to Iowa to visit. He was a carpenter, always made something while he was back. That was when he made the “halma” table, a game similar to chinese checkers but more complicated, Aunt Dorothy still has the table. He also made a platform swing for their sidewalk. Another time he made Gertrude a sewing kit/table.

Raymond and Dorothy had a dog, and one evening they were out picking up corn cobs, and they had seen stories about dogs carrying. Dog wouldn’t cooperate, so they put the bucket around his neck. The dog panicked, and started running. Moody started laughing, thinking they had eggs in the bucket. Dog, Dorothy and Raymond did not appreciate his amusement.

Moody hated the smell of salmon, so the family had to take care to never serve salmon soup when he was there.

Moody lived in California with his oldest daughter, Alvina. Alvina was never married, but was a missionary in Burma and India for many years. Moody died there in 1938 at the age of 87.

NOTE: Moody Robinson, and his brother John, married the Aten sisters, Ellen and Martha. In the 1880 census both families were living in the same township, and were both farmers, and therefore were presumably very close. Also, Moody’s brother “Samuel”, age 19, was living with Moody, with occupation “Works On Farm”.

Also living close by was a “Jennie Robinson”, “Widowed”, “Head of household” -- I would guess this was the widow of one of the other brothers?

1860 CENSUS, ILLINOIS, KNOX CO., VICTORIA TWP:

Moody is age 10, living with his parents. See notes with his father.

1870 CENSUS, ILLINOIS, KNOX CO., TRURO TWP:

Moody is 19, and living in the home of his brother William and his wife Eva.

1880 CENSUS, IOWA, WAYNE CO., RICHMAN TWP:

Moody is 29, Ellen is 30, and they are farming. Living at home are daughters Alvina age 5, and Adelia, age 1. Also living in their household is Moody’s brother Samuel, age 19.

1885 IOWA CENSUS, WAYNE CO:

Moody & Ellen are there, with children Elvina, Adelia, and Olive. Moody’s brother Samuel lives with them.

1895 IOWA, WAYNE, RICHMAN:

There with children Alvina, Gertrude, Olive and Sylvia. They are all Methodists.

1900 CENSUS, CLAY TWP., WAYNE CO., IOWA:

Moody is 49, Ellen is 50, they have been maried 26 years, and had 7 children of whom 5 are still living. They own their farm, have a mortgage.

1910 CENSUS, CLAY TWP., WAYNE CO., IOWA:

“Moodie” and his wife “Ella” are age 59 and 60. Only one child still lives at home -- son Earl is age 14. They still own the farm, and have not yet paid off the mortgage.

1920 CENSUS: Moody is living alone in California. He owns his home, free of mortgage. He is age 69, and retired.

1930 CENSUS: Moody is 79, and living with Alvina who is 55. Alvina owns the home worth $11000, and has a radio. She lists her occupation as cook in a hospital.)

Irene (Coffey) McCarl offered the following note about Moody, and his passing:

“The only death I recall was Grandma Coffey's Dad (Robinson). Remember him being at the folks one time, and he ate sugar and cream on his pancakes. (I went for butter and syrup.) When he died he laid in state in our living room, when we lived in the big brick house in Garden Grove. I could not sleep well in my upstairs bedroom, knowing he was in the casket downstairs. Remember Grandma Coffey was one who sat up with his body all night. Your research is bringing up memories that I had long forgotten. Thank goodness, funeral homes now take care of the deceased.”

Dorothy: We visited house where Gertrude and family lived as children, in Wayne County. She wanted to go in the house (vacant), then entered and went up stairs (this was when she was older, using a walker). Was very pleased to visit old home. Said one Christmas she and Alvina were up there making a gift for grandpa, he kept teasing them, climbed up a ladder to the window to see what they were doing!)

Note from Tim Peterman, 2/24/05:

Here is something to muse over. What would have Moody Robinson or John Kivet Robinson thought of the 2000 election? Why do I ask? Because on his father's side, he was a 3rd cousin to an ancestor of Al Gore (through the Robinsons); and on his mother's side, he was a 3rd cousin to an ancestor of Laura Bush.(through the Aldridges) M

Marriage: 13 Nov 1873 Decatur County, Iowa

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Spouse: Ellen Arminda ATEN

Birth: 17 Dec 1849 West Jersey, Stark Co, Illinois

Death: 6 Mar 1919 Fullerton, Orange Co, California

Burial: Garden Grove, Iowa

Father: Aaron Kimble ATEN (1812-1901)

Mother: Dorcas GLASS (1814-1892)

Misc. Notes

Ellen is found in the 1850 census living in Stark County, Illinois. She is 5 months old.

She is found in the 1860 Stark County, Illinois census, West Jersey township. She is age 10 and born in Illinois.

She is found in the 1870 Stark County census, West Jersey township, age 20 and a schoolteacher.

The Humeston New Era, Mar.26, 1919

MRS. M. ROBINSON CALLED BY DEATH

Former Resident of This Community Died at Fullerton, California

Garden Grove Express: Ellen A. Aten, the sixth Child of Aaron and Dorcas Aten, was born in West Jersey, Ill., December 17, 1849, and passed away at Fullerton, Calif., March 6th, 1919.

The early part of her life was spent in Illinois. Her parents came to Iowa in 1871 and located in Decatur county. She was united in marriage to Moody Robinson on November 13th, 1873.

To this union were born seven children, five of whom, together with her husband and fifteen grandchildren survive her. A daughter, Mrs. Ollie Holder, and a son Earl, reside at Fullerton, Calif. Two other daughters, Mrs. Gertrude Coffey, and Mrs. Sylvia Holder, reside in Wayne county, Iowa, and the eldest daughter, Alvina, is a missionary of the M.E. church in Singapore, Malaysia.

Besides the children she leave to mourn her, one sister and two brothers; Mrs. Lou Rilea of Fullerton, Calif., Rev. T.G. Aten of Sask., Canada, and Edward Aten of Gobleville, Mich.

In early youth the deceased united with the Methodist church and she has lived in dutiful obedience to the truths of our Savior. She was a good wife and mother with high ideals and purposes. She was devoted to her children, affectionate in the home; and bestowed upon the world worthy sons and daughters. Her life influenced for good wherever she went. She exemplified the sterling features of Christian womanhood that enriches life and brings happiness to others. Of her life well may be written, "Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord. Even so saith the Spirit, for they rest from their labor."

The past five years she has been in poor health and gradually growing weaker. With resignation of spirit she gladly welcomed the coming of her Savior. At the time of her death she was sixty-nine years, two months and nineteen days old.

The funeral services were held at the home of Mrs. John W. Aten, on Wednesday morning, March 12, at 11 o'clock, conducted by Rev. Guy J. Winslow, pastor of the Methodist church. The remains were laid to rest in the Garden Grove cemetery.

Moody ROBINSON (11 Dec 1850 - 22 Mar 1938) & Ellen Arminda ATEN (17 Dec 1849 - 6 Mar 1919)

Alvina Irene ROBINSON (25 Jan 1875 - 21 Apr 1963)

Adelia Gertrude ROBINSON (12 Sep 1878 - 16 Jan 1973) & Newton COFFEY (23 Sep 1875 - 26 May 1969)

Bessie May ROBINSON (20 Oct 1880 – 8 Nov 1882)

Olive Myrtle ROBINSON (5 Nov 1880 - 5 Jan 1967)

Sylvia Isabelle ROBINSON (29 Jul 1885 - 14 Aug 1953) & James Hiram HOLDER

Noel Newton ROBINSON (30 Apr 1888 - 28 Oct 1892)

Earl Moody ROBINSON (13 Jun 1895 - 5 Jan 1921)

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Please report corrections or additions to...

Fred Coffey

FredCoffey@AOL.COM

Name: John ROBINSON

Name: Moody ROBINSON Sr.

Name: Moody ROBINSON

The Humeston New Era, Mar.26, 1919

MRS. M. ROBINSON CALLED BY DEATH