(This article was originally published July 25, 2018. It was most recently updated June 6, 2019.) It's now worth investigating the possibility that Harriet Morris is a daughter of Thomas Morris of Beaufort County and granddaughter of Elisha Morris. While Laban descendants undoubtedly share some kind of DNA with Harriet Morris descendants, I'm doubtful it's enough to suggest … [Read more...] about Is Harriet Morris a relative of Laban Morris?
Wills & Estate Records
Brick Walls: Jesse P. Vendrick, Sr.
My 5th great-grandfather, Jesse P. Vendrick, was probably born in Craven County circa 1760. The identities of his parents and the mother of his children are mysteries. Why? Because there were two Jesse Vendricks in this generation. I think. Thought? I don't know! And there are two, possibly three, more Jesse Vendricks in the next generation. So, what do I know? The … [Read more...] about Brick Walls: Jesse P. Vendrick, Sr.
The Brother-in-Law Conundrum
The word "brother-in-law" is becoming the bane of my research. In earlier times, the term "in-law" had a broader scope than is now the case. Pretty much anyone related to you by marriage was an in-law. Therefore, a brother-in-law could be one in the modern sense, a stepbrother, or even the brother of your brother's wife/sister's husband! Unfortunately for me, this word has … [Read more...] about The Brother-in-Law Conundrum
Joseph Gaskins and Mary Coleman?
I was reading through some court records yesterday, when I came across this entry dated 9 Dec 1799: Ordered that notice issue to Mary Gaskins to appear at the Next Term and show cause to why the nuncupative will of Joseph Gaskins decd. should not be Established. Who was Mary Gaskins? My 6th great-grandfather, Joseph Gaskins, married Zipporah Squires 21 Sep 1782. … [Read more...] about Joseph Gaskins and Mary Coleman?
Which Gatlin married Mary Johnson, sister of Richard, Elizabeth & Esther?
On 26 Apr 1796, Richard Johnson of Craven County, wrote his will (Will Book B, pg. 13), making bequests to, among others, his three sisters. The Will In the Name of God Amen I Richard Johnson of Craven County in the State of North Carolina, being sick and weak in body, but of sound mind and disposing Memory, do Make and Ordain this my Last Will and Testament in manner and … [Read more...] about Which Gatlin married Mary Johnson, sister of Richard, Elizabeth & Esther?
