Nathaniel Tatem “IV” of Norfolk County, Virginia – A Family Reconstruction
Born ~1715; older than age 21 in father’s 18 October 1737 will.
Marriage bond on 13 December 1743 Norfolk to Prudence Wilson (county record); marriage bond 2nd in 12 February 1755 Norfolk to Dinah Nash (county record).
Died before his 21 July 1771 probate.
Brothers/sisters: John Tatem “I” (1716/20 to ~1774), Love Tatem, “Trim” Tatem
Occupation: probably a merchant, planter, and lumber supplier.
Note: Original records never used “IV” after Nathaniel Tatem’s name; only used here to separate various Nathaniel Tatems.
Prudence Wilson – 1st wife
Born – not known
Died – between 1750-1754
Parents: James and Dinah Wilson
Brothers: Solomon Wilson, Jeremiah Wilson, James Wilson, Caleb Wilson, Josiah Wilson, Nathaniel Wilson, William Wilson, Malachi Wilson
Sisters: Mary Butt, Elizabeth Thelaball, Dinah Nicholson, Affiah Langley, Ann Wilson, Uphan Wilson.
Recorded only twice: (1) her 1743 marriage and (2) 13 January 1750 will of her father, James Wilson, Senior.
Will – no
Dinah Nash – 2nd wife
Born
Died before her will probate on 19 February 1784.
Parents: Thomas and Dinah Nash
Brothers/Sisters include Thomas Nash (Junior) and John Nash.
Will of Dinah Tatem: 8 January 1784 and probated 19 February 1784 – Norfolk County.
Researcher is James R. Murphy, planetmurphy.org, this revision 1 December 2014.
Summary - This Chapter Contains the Following Tatem
Family Reconstruction
Nathaniel Tatem “IV” (~1715 to 1771) + Prudence Wilson + Dinah Nash. Children of Nathaniel Tatem “IV” and 1st wife Prudence Wilson: (a) to (d). Children of Nathaniel Tatem “IV” and 2nd wife Dinah Nash: (e) to (i):
(a). Lovet Tatem + William Nicholson; married 6 July 1773 to Lovet Tatem, an orphan daughter of Nathl Tatem, deceased (county record).
(b). Ann Tatem + Malachi Oldner married on 7 December 1774, surety James Tatem.
(c). Nathaniel Tatem “V” (1744/45 to >1791/92 Norfolk, another missing will) + Rebecca Portlock. See their separate chapter for details.
(d). James Tatem (~1751 - 1815) + Polly Williamson. Wife in will is Rebekah. Children per will: (aa). Henry Tatem, (bb). Wilson Tatem, (cc) Prudence Tatem, (dd) Patsy Tatem, (ee) Nancy Tatem, (dd). Rebekah Tatem.
(e). Thomas Tatem (~1756 – 1800 Norfolk/will) married Martha __. Children are (aa). Elizabeth Tatem, (bb). Martha Tatem, (cc) Thomas Tatem “II,” (dd) William Tatem, (ee). Mariah Tatem, (ff) Dinah Tatem, (gg). Robert H. Tatem.
(f). Dinah Tatem (1755/58) married 1774 to James Herbert (county record).
(g). William Tatem (died 1792, Norfolk will), No wife or children in will.
(h). Lydia Tatem (~1769) married 1785 to John Trimble (county record)
(i). Molly Tatem who married a Wilson per mother’s will.
Details for Nathaniel Tatem “IV” (~1715 to 1771)
5th Generation Tatem
Nathaniel Tatem “IV” (~1715 to 1771) is most likely the son of Nathaniel Tatem “III” and not the son of John Tatem “I.” His birth date is estimated from his father’s 1737 will who (indirectly) indicated he was over age 21. After his death in 1771, his minor age children were placed with bonded guardians. “Nathaniel Tatem, Jr.” or “IV” has a marriage bond on 13 December 1743 Norfolk to Prudence Wilson (county record) and later a 2nd on 12 February 1755 Norfolk to Dinah Nash (county record).
1736 June 6 – Norfolk County tax: 16 Tithables for Capt. Nathaniel Tatem, (who includes a 2nd) Nathaniel Tatem. Tithable lists are lost for years 1737-1749. This is the only time Nathaniel Tatem “IV” is paired with Nathaniel Tatem “III.”
1737 October 18 – Norfolk County: Partial will abstract of Capt. Nathaniel Tatem (“III”) (probated 17 August 1739 and 21 September 1739. In the Name of God Amen, I, Nathaniel Tatem of the Colony of Virginia, Mariner being Sick and weak of body but of Sound disposing mind and memory…give and bequeath….
To son Nathaniel Tatem…750 acres of land with the Mansion House thereon Standing…in Elizabeth River in Virginia…but my mind and will is that my Loving wife Ann Tatem shall live in the mentioned house with half the plantation together…during her Natural Life. Item, my negro man Tom to son Nathaniel Tatem…. Item: Sixty pounds Virginia money to son Nathaniel Tatem to build him a house on the Land I gave him.
Item: but my mind and will is that my Wife have the rest of the plantation at Crane Island and the Lot at Town till my two sons come to the age of 21 years – John, Trimingham, and as come to age to have the land.
Collection of Unrecorded Wills, Norfolk County, Virginia 1711-1800 by Elizabeth B. Wingo 1961, pages 108 and 109.
Notice that the son Nathaniel Tatem “IV” is not mentioned under 21 years of age. He must be 21+. This passage permits a birth date estimation of 1737 – 21 = 1716 or earlier. Therefore, an estimated birth date of or 1714 or 1715 might be reasonable.
1743 December 13 - Norfolk County: Marriage bond of “Nathaniel Tatem, Jr.” to Prudence Wilson (county record).
The use of “junior” needs an explanation. There appears to be only one Nathaniel Tatem living in the year 1743. The only other one to consider is Nathaniel Tatem (~1744/50 to 1787), son of John Tatem (1716/1720 to ~1774). His birth is after December 1743. This writer’s conclusion: “Junior” is used here in conjunction with his father Nathaniel Tatem, Sr. or “III” who died in 1739. This is against standards in county government terminology. County records use Senior and Junior to separate two living adults with the same name by age, not necessarily son and father. One useful outcome is added evidence that Nathaniel Tatem “III” Senior is the father of Nathaniel Tatem “IV,” Junior.
1744 August 17 – Norfolk County Court: Present included Mr. Nath’l Tatem
The Lower Norfolk County Virginia Antiquary, Volume One by Edward Wilson James
1749/50 January 13 – Norfolk County: Will of James Wilson, Senior. Executors – wife, Dinah Wilson and son Caleb Wilson: To sons Solomon Wilson, Jeremiah Wilson, James Wilson, Willis Wilson, Caleb Wilson, Josiah Wilson, Nathaniel Wilson, William Wilson, Malachi Wilson. To daughters Mary Butt, Elizabeth Thelaball, Prudence Tatem, Dinah Nicholson, Affiah Langley, Ann Wilson, Uphan Wilson. …to daughter Prudence Tatem land purchased of John Fife with the house on it; negro – Jonas. February Court 1756. (DB F/7-9)
Norfolk County, Virginia Will Book 1, 1755-1772 by Elizabeth B. Wingo 1986
1750 to 1761 - Norfolk County tax: Summary of Tithables for Nathaniel Tatem
Location: Borough of Norfolk and down south side of Daniel Tanner’s Creek in 1750 and 1751; Borough of Norfolk and ye north side of Tanner’s Creek to Splatts Bridge, 1752; Ferry Point and the Great Bridge 1753, 1754, 1761; tax years lost 1755-1758; Borough of Norfolk, south side of Tanners Creek to Great Bridge 1759; more tax years lost 1762-1765. Tanners Creek is now called Lafayette River and is within today’s Norfolk City.
Tax Years listed: 1750, 1751, 1752, 1753, 1754, 1759, and 1761.
Tithable lists by Mr. Christopher Perkins 1750; Capt. Josiah Smith 1752, 1759; William Portlock 1754, James Webb 1761.
(Estate white males, age 16+): Trim Tatem 1750; “son Nathaniel Tatem” 1761.
Male Slaves: Pomp 1750 to 1754; Darby 1750 to 1761; Toney/Tony 1750 to 1761; Manuel 1750 to 1761; Will 1750 to 1759; James 1750; Sam 1750; (a 2nd) Tony 1752 to 1761; Dick 1759, 1761; Thomas 1759; Pony? (not Tony x 2) 1759, 1761; Jonas 1761
Female Slaves: Jenny 1750 to 1761; Phillis 1750 to 1761; Nancy 1750; Bess 1754, 1759, 1761. Phillis can be traced in these Tatem records and was born between 1708 and 1713. Tax records after 1761 are sparse and she becomes lost.
1750 December 1751 – Norfolk County: Elizabeth River Parish, Southern Branch Precinct – Mr. Nathaniel Tatem and Peter Sparrow are hereby appointed to procession the land from Ferry Point to Etheridge Mill and …make returns of their proceedings according to law.
Vestry Book of Elizabeth River Parish 1749-1761, by Alice Granbery Walter, 1967, page 9.
1755 February 12 – Norfolk County: Marriage bond of Nathaniel Tatem to Dinah Nash, with bondsman being Nathl Tatem, Trim Tatem (county record).
1757 April 1757 – Norfolk County: (abstracted) Nathaniel Tatem and Dinah his wife, of Norfolk County deeded to Trimmagin Tatem (various spellings) of the Borough of Norfolk, mariner, for 220 pounds Virginia money, a lot about ½ acre in the borough. History: was Gassans(?), then divided by the last will of Nathaniel Tatem the Elder deceased, to his son Trimmigan Tatem…who sold it to Nathaniel Tatem. Signed: Nathaniel Tatem, Dinah Tatem. Witnesses; Sam Benish? Jr., James _am, Ja. Holt. Returned 22 April 1757. (DB 18/36). On 4 May 1757, this deed was cancelled by General Court and returned to Trim and wife Ann Tatem, who then proceeded to sell the land to John Ramsay for 277 pounds Virginia money. (DB 18/37)
1763 August 30/1765 July 18 – Norfolk County: Will of Richard Whitehurst. Executors – Nathaniel Tatem and Thomas Nash, Junior. To daughter-in-law Sarah(?) Whitehurst, widow of son Richard Whitehurst, to grandsons and great grandsons. Witnesses Thomas Nash, John Nash, Ann “x” Jones, John Whitehurst. (DB F/139)
Norfolk County, Virginia Will Book 1, 1755-1772 by Elizabeth B. Wingo 1986
1764 October 18/1765 January 17 – Norfolk County: Will of the John Nicholson. Executors – Joshua Nicholson and Nathaniel Tatem. To son Malachi Nicholson, wife Mary Nicholson. Witnesses: George Oldner, James Godfrey, Dinah Oldner. (DB F/129a)
Norfolk County, Virginia Will Book 1, 1755-1772 by Elizabeth B. Wingo 1986
1765 – Norfolk County: Tax on Carriages, Chariots, and Chairs for the year 1765, an incomplete list: (includes) Nathaniel Tatem.
1765 April 29 – Norfolk County: Will of Martha Linus. Probated 15 May 1766.
Executor – Nathaniel Tatem, Senior.
To Nathaniel Tatem, son of Nathaniel Tatem – negroes Nancey and Affa; bed and bed stead, sheets, plate, quilts, silver pepper box, etc…if he dies all goes to his brother James Tatem.
To Lovey Tatem, daughter of Nathaniel Tatem – negro Juda…if she dies, Juda goes to her sister, Ann Tatem
To Marian Abyvon – chest and 5 pounds cash
To Ann Tatem, daughter of Nathaniel – chest and silver teaspoons
To Mary Avery – 5 pounds cash; To Mary Carter, daughter of Mary Avery – bed, rug, etc.
To Cousin – Nathaniel Tatem, Senior – Negro Jammy; remainder of estate not before given.
Witnesses: Matthew Godfrey, Dinah Tatem (F/144)
Norfolk County, Virginia Will Book 1, 1755-1772 by Elizabeth B. Wingo 1986
1766 June 12 – Norfolk County: Will of Lewis Thelaball of Boro. Norfolk. Executors – wife, Mary Thelaball and Matthew Godfrey. To William Godfrey – son of Matthew Godfrey, John Godfrey son of Matthew Godfrey, James Tatem – son of Nathaniel Tatem, Elizabeth Thelaball – daughter of Nathaniel Thelaball, deceased. Probated 21 May 1767. (DB F/157)
Norfolk County, Virginia Will Book 1, 1755-1772 by Elizabeth B. Wingo 1986
1767 Norfolk tax – Great Bridge to Ferry Point: 14 Tithables – Nathaniel Tatem and son James Tatem and negroes James, Toney, Derby, Manuel, and Toney, Dick, Jonas, James, Jenny, Bess, Pleasant, Juda. 752 acres. Tithes were for all whites males age 16 and upward and for all slaves all ages.
Norfolk County, Virginia Tithables 1766-1780 by Elizabeth B. and W. Bruce Wingo, 1985.
1768 June - Norfolk County tax – Great Bridge to Ferry Point: 12 tithables for Nathaniel Tatem and for negroes James, Toney, Jonas, Jenny, Bess, James, Manuel, Parley, Dick, Toney and Pleasant. 752 acres.
1770 June – Norfolk County tax – Great Bridge to Ferry Point: 12 tithables for Nathaniel Tatem and negroes Toney, Charles, Dick, Jenny, Bess, Pleasant, James Emanuel, Jonas, Toney, James. 752 acres.
1771 May 21/July Court – Norfolk County: Will of Nathaniel Tatum
Executors – son Nathaniel Tatem and Thomas Nash, Junior, and John Nash.
To wife, Dinah Tatem - negroes Jenny, Lucy, Dick, Emanuel, Great James and Toney; wheels; cart; horse called Caper; 4 cows; 2 beds & furniture; tables; 100 pounds currency, etc.
To son, Nathaniel Tatem - negro, Charles and horse
To daughter, Love Tatem – negro Sall; bed and furniture, and 58 pounds currency
To daughter, Dinah Tatem – negroes Sarah and Cato; bed and furniture; 58 pounds currency.
To daughter, Ann Tatem – negroes Bridgett and Old Toney; bed and furniture, 58 pounds currency
To daughter, Molly Tatem – negroes, Pompey and Jenny; 58 pounds currency
To daughter, Lydia Tatem – negroes, Pleasant and Bess; 58 pounds currency.
To son, James Tatem – negro Tom, a horse; 58 pounds currency.
To son, Thomas Tatem – negro, Jammy; 58 pounds
To son, William Tatem – negro Jonas, 58 pounds
Item: … the residue of my estate be sold and the money arising from the sale to be equally divided between my children: Love, Dinah, Ann, Molly, Lydia, James, Thomas and William. (WB 1/205)
Witnesses: Mathew Godfrey, George Oldner, Caleb Herbert.
Norfolk County, Virginia Will Book 1, 1755-1772 by Elizabeth B. Wingo 1986
1771 June – Norfolk County : 12 tithables – Nathaniel Tatem, Senor - Estate, for negroes Emanuel, Great James, Old Toney, Little Toney, Jonas, Young James, Dick, Charles, Tom, Jenny, Bess, and Pleasant.
Norfolk County, Virginia Tithables 1766-1780 by Elizabeth B. and W. Bruce Wingo, 1985.
1771 December 18 – Norfolk County: James Tatem – Orphan of Nathaniel Tatem. Guardian – Nathaniel Tatem. Additional Security – John Tatem, Jr. Bond 500 pounds.
Norfolk County, Virginia Guardian Bonds, 1750-1800, by Elizabeth B. Wingo, 1993.
1771 December 20 – Norfolk County: Dinah Tatem, Thomas Tatem, Molly Tatem, and Lydia Tatem – Orphans of Nathaniel Tatem. Guardian – Dinah Tatem. Additional Security – Matthew Godfrey, Charles Mayle, John Nash.
Norfolk County, Virginia Guardian Bonds, 1750-1800, by Elizabeth B. Wingo, 1993.
1771 November 21 – Norfolk County: William Tatem – Orphan of Nathaniel Tatem. Guardian – Charles Mayle. Additional Security: Abram Wormington, John Nash. Bond – 300 pounds.
1772 March 26 – Norfolk County: George the Third by the Grace of God of Great Britain, France and Ireland and defender of the faith…To the Sheriff of Norfolk County…Greeting. We command you that you summon Thomas Nash, Junior Executor of Nathaniel Tatem, deceased, to appear before our Justices our county Court in Chancery at the court house of the said county…on the third Thursday in April next to answer a bill in Chancery exhibited against him by John Tatem, Gent, Executor of Trimingham Tatem…26 March 1772…(no further details).
Library of Virginia, Chancery Records, Norfolk “County, index number 1772-011, plaintiff - Exr. 0f Trimingham Tatem versus defendant – Exr of Nathaniel Tatem.
1772 Norfolk County tax – From Great Bridge to Ferry Point: 5 Tithables for Dinah Tatem for negroes Manuel, James, Jenny, Pleasant, and Sarah.
1776 June 16 – Norfolk County: Will of Thomas Nash, “being old and weak” of Norfolk County. Executors – sons Thomas Nash and John Nash. Wife Dinah Nash. Mentions daughter Dinah Tatem – share of my wife’s part of my estate when divided. February Court 1783.
Norfolk County, Will Book II 1772-1783 by Pamela W. McVey, 1986, page 142, folio 179.
1778 Norfolk County tax – From Great Bridge to Ferry Point: 4 Tithables for Dinah Tatem for negroes Toney, Manuel, Jenny and Pleasant.
1780 Norfolk County tax – From Great Bridge to Ferry Point: 3 Tithables for Dinah Tatem, son Thomas Tatem and negroes James and Jenny.
1782 – Norfolk County: Tax free and slave; a list of white and black persons from the Ferry Point to the Greate Bridge taken by Sam Veal:
Dinah Tatim: 2 white, 4 black.* Slaves were Jenny, Joe. Easter and one name unreadable.** Dinah is the widow of Nat. Tatem “IV.” Slaves
Nathl Tatem: 7 white, 9 black.* This Nat. Tatem should be “V.”
* The Lower Norfolk County, Virginia Antiquary, Volume 5, by Edward Wilson James, page 6.
** Norfolk County Personal Tax Records 1782-1790, Family History Center microfilm #1870174.
1783 Norfolk County Personal Property Tax – Ferry Point to Great Bridge: Dinah Tatem for “Negroes – Joe, Jenny, Easter, all over age 16, 1 cow and 2 horses.
1784 January 8 – Norfolk County: Will of Dinah Tatem. Executor: son Thomas Tatem.
To daughter Lydia Tatem: Negro girl Estes, 1 bed and furniture, her choice of 1 cow and calf, 1/5 of remaining estate.
To son William Tatem: Negroe boy Job, ½ of Negro woman Jenny, 1/5 of rest of estate.
To son Thomas Tatem: one square walnut table, 6 walnut chairs, all my corn and fodder, ½ of negro woman Jenny; 1/5 remaining estate.
To daughter Molly Wilson: 1/5 remaining estate
To daughter Dinah Herbert (torn)
Witnesses: John Nash, Anna Mayle, Court 19 February 1784 (WB 2/226)
Norfolk County Will Book II, 1772 – 1783, by Pamela W. McVey, 1986, page 144, folio 191.
1784 February 19 – Norfolk County Estate Audit for Nathaniel Tatem, deceased: Audit returned and to be recorded, notable items: 58 pounds money legacy given William Nicholson, Malachi Oldner, James Herbert, James Tatem, Thomas Tatem’s guardian, Molly Tatem, and Lydia Tatem.
Children of Nathaniel Tatem “IV” + Prudence Wilson – First Marriage
Per will, (a) to (d)
Married 1743 (Norfolk County record)
(a). Love Tatem (also, Lovet Tatem) has a marriage bond 6 July 1773 Norfolk County to William Nicholson.
1773 July 6 - Norfolk County: Marriage bond of “Lovet Tatem” to William Nicholson with bondsmen: William Nicholson and Nathaniel Tatem. One source states “William Nicholson and Lovet, orphan daughter of Nathl Tatem, deceased. (county record)
*Va. Co. Records: Miscellaneous County Records by William A Crozier.
(b). Ann Tatem has a marriage bond 7 December 1774 Norfolk County to Malachi Oldner.
1770 Norfolk County tax – North side of Western Branch: 12 tithables – George Oldner, Malachi Oldner, Benjamin Boush, James Tatem, Thomas Drury and negroes Dick, Luke, Robin, Charles, London, Nanny, and Sarah. 134 acres
1771 Norfolk County tax – South side Tanners Creek: 12 tithables – George Oldner, Malachi Oldner, James Tatem, Willis Langley, Paul Lewelling and negroes Luke, robin, Dick, London, Nanney, Sarah, and Jenny. 134 acres.
1774 December 7 - Norfolk County: Marriage bond of Ann Tatem to Malachi Oldner, with surety James Tatem. Hannah Edy makes oath that Ann, daughter of Nathaniel Tatem, deceased, is of lawful age. Malachi Oldner is the son of George and Dinah Oldner. Witnesses Jno Boush and James Tatem (county record).
(c). Nathaniel Tatem “V” (~1745 to >1790+) + Rebecca Portlock – see their own chapter for details.
(d). James Tatem (born ~1750, based on 1767 tithable record naming individuals 16+ and died 1815 - will). Married 9 July 1782 Norfolk County to Polly Williamson (county record). Wife in 1815 will is Rebecca.
1766 June 12 – Norfolk County: Will of Lewis Thelaball of Boro. Norfolk. Executors – wife, Mary Theaball and Matthew Godfrey. To William Godfrey – son of Matthew Godfrey, John Godfrey son of Matthew Godfrey, James Tatem – son of Nathaniel Tatem, Elizabeth Thelaball – daughter of Nathaniel Thelaball, deceased. Probated 21 May 1767. (F/157)
Norfolk County, Virginia Will Book 1, 1755-1772 by Elizabeth B. Wingo 1986
1767 Norfolk County tax – Great Bridge to Ferry Point: 14 Tithables – Nathaniel Tatem and son James Tatem and negroes James, Toney, Derby, Manuel, and Toney, Dick, Jonas, James, Jenny, Bess, Pleasant, Juda. 752 acres. Tithes were for all whites males person age 16 and upward.
Norfolk County, Virginia Tithables 1766-1780 by Elizabeth B. and W. Bruce Wingo, 1985. All Norfolk tithables dated 1766-1780 are from this book.
1770 Norfolk County tax – North side of Western Branch: 12 tithables – George Oldner, Malachi Oldner, Benjamin Boush, James Tatem, Thomas Drury and negroes Dick, Luke, Robin, Charles, London, Nanny, and Sarah. 134 acres
1771 Norfolk County tax – South side Tanners Creek: 12 tithables – George Oldner, Malachi Oldner, James Tatem, Willis Langley, Paul Lewelling and negroes Luke, robin, Dick, London, nanney, Sarah, and Jenny. 134 acres.
1771 December 18 – Norfolk County: James Tatem – Orphan of Nathaniel Tatem. Guardian – Nathaniel Tatem. Additional Security – John Tatem, Jr. Bond 500 pounds.
Norfolk County, Virginia Guardian Bonds, 1750-188, by Elizabeth B. Wingo, 1993.
1776 Norfolk County: Justices of the Peace included James Tatem
History of Norfolk County, Virginia 1637-1800, by Col. William H. Stewart 1902
1778 Norfolk County tax – Ferry Point to Great Bridge: 6 Tithables - Nathaniel Tatem, James Tatem, negroes Charles, ditto Charles, Affey, Hager, No acreage on list.
1780 Norfolk County tax – Ferry Point to Great Bridge: 6 Tithables – Nathaniel Tatum and brother James (Tatem) and negroes Jack, Charles, Affey, and Hager.
1782 July 9 - Norfolk County: Marriage bond of James Tatem to Polly Williamson (county record).
1783 to 1815 - Norfolk County Personal Property Tax: James Tatem; In 1799, he is separated in St. Brides Parish as James Tatem, Sr. from a James Tatem, Jr. In 1800, there are total of three James Tatems in Norfolk County; last one in Portsmouth/Elizabeth River Parishes.
Location: Ferry Point to Greate Bridge 1783; later St. Brides Parish
Whites males noted: James Hall 1786; Nathaniel Holstead 1786; two white male tithes (includes James Tatum (Sr.) in 1787, 1810-1812
Tax years missing: 1785
Taxes taken by Samuel Veal 1783;
Slaves: Susy (age 16+) 1783-1784; Jeffery 1783-1785 (age <16); Lucy/Susie 1783-1784 (age <16); Bettie 1784-1786 (age <16); Jinny 1786: Not Named after 1786.
1785 US Census of Norfolk County, Virginia: Heads of Families for District from the Ferry Point to the Great Bridge, List of Thomas Nash: James Tatem 4 white souls, 1 dwelling, 0 other holdings. Also, next to him is Nathaniel Tatem, 5 white souls, 1 dwelling, 4 other holdings.
Heads of Families at the First Census of the United States, Taken in 1790, by US Bureau of the Census. Census year for Norfolk was 1785.
1790 - Norfolk County tax record: James Tatem
1797 July 18 – Norfolk County: Maximilian Herbert executor of Edmond Allinand and Martha Allinand widow deeded to James Tatem for 70 pounds Virginia money, with 19.10.7 already paid, 23 acres in Saint Bride’s Parish...near the road to Washington (town) along a cove, formerly belonging to Jonathan Herbert. Signed Maxim’n Herbert, Martha Allinand. Witnesses: Thomas Tatem, Joshua Moog, Thomas Nicholson, Edward Herbert, William Perishing. Entered _ September 1797. (DB 37/88)
1808 January 28 – Norfolk County: Will of James Tatem, Sr. (proved 16 October 1815). Executors: wife Rebekah Tatem and son Henry Tatem.
To wife Rebekah Tatem the use of my estate and property during her widowhood.
To son Henry Tatem, half of plantation and house whereon I now live.
To son Wilson Tatem, half of plantation and house whereon I now live.
To daughter Prudence Cooper, 15 pounds money
To daughters Patsy Tatem, Nancy Tatem, Rebekah Tatem, each 1/3 residue of my estate not given away including Negroes, money, stock of all kinds and household and kitchen furniture.
Witnesses: Jonathan Butt, Caleb Butt, and Enoch Etheridge.
Norfolk County, Virginia Will Book 4, 1802-1817 by Sharon Rea Gable and Truitt M. Bonney, 2009
Children of James Tatem (~1751 to 1815), (aa) to (ee)
(aa). Henry Tatem. (~1789 to 23 September 1839 Norfolk) married Mary H. __ and had no surviving children in 1839. Norfolk tax records for Henry Tatem begin in 1816 (white males were taxed beginning age 16).
1813 April 19 – Norfolk County: Henry Tatem is by the Court recommended Ensign in the 95th Regiment. (Norfolk Minute Book 12) War of 1812-1814.
Norfolk County, Applications for Pensions, Bounty Land Warrants, by Elizabeth B. Wingo.
On 6 February 1813, William W. Hening, Adjutant General’s Office, Virginia ordered a detachment from the 95th to”repair immediately to Norfolk.”
Calendar of Virginia State Papers and Other Manuscripts, Volume 10, page 187, by William Pitt Palmer, Sherwin McRae, Raleigh Edward Colston, Henry W. Flournoy, R.F. Walker, 1892.
Battle of Norfolk and Portsmouth in the War of 1812
The Americans under Brigadier General Robert B. Taylor built defenses around Norfolk and Portsmouth with a barrier across the Elizabeth River and fortifications on Craney Island. Area forts included Fort Barbour (1812) at Princess Anne Road and Church Street, Fort Tar (1812) at Monticello Avenue, north of Virginia Beach Boulevard, and Fort Nelson (1804). Craney Island Fort (1813) had 7 guns and a mile long earthwork berm. In February 1813, the British forced the USS Constellation to retreat to protective waters of Norfolk harbor.
On 22 June 1813, the Battle of Craney Island was fought against troops of British Admirals Sir George Cockburn and Sir John Boriase Warren. The British had about 2500 soldiers as opposed to 700 Patriots on Craney Island. The British landing barges first struck a shoal 300 yards off shore from Craney Island which stalled their landing and increased their exposure to canon attack. When they finally landed on its shore, they were defeated in their second attack. Of the British, 200 were killed, 13 taken prisoners and 40 deserted. The Americans had no casualties. Afterwards, the British left the area.
Searching for the Forgotten War – 1812: United States of America by Patrick Richard Carstens, 2011.
The Encyclopedia of the War of 1812: A Political, Social and Military History (3 volumes), spencer C. Tucker, 2012.
Citizen Soldiers in the War of 1812, by Carl Edward Skeen, 1999
Henry Tatem Continued:
1839 July 8 – Norfolk County. Will of Henry Tatem of Saint Brides Parish, Norfolk County, probated 21 October 1839. (Brief Abstract)
To wife Mary H. Tatem all the property including slaves Guinea, Joe Sam, Hetty, Mary, John Nicholas, Stephen, Violet, Jim Edmund, and Lydia.
Loan to wife household and kitchen furniture, one horse, gig, cart after the death of my mother. Who is entitled to them during her life.
To sister Rebecca Nash and her husband William _ Nash notes of debt I hold of theirs amounting to $700.
To my brother’s two sons Joseph M. and Henry. W. Tatem notes I hold against their mother Hannah M. Tatem amounting to $600.
To James Robert Carson debt he owes men
To my niece Martha Ann Barrett interest in my father’s estate which I purchased from her father Thomas Carson 6 January 1827.
Remaining assets to be distributed to my wife Mary H. Tatem, my sister Ann Tatem, and my sister Rebecca Nash, my nieces Martha Ann Barrett and Sarah Sneed, to my nephew George Cooper, and to Alexander, Immogine, and Jesse Culpepper, children of Mary Ann Culpeper, deceased. Witnesses: James A. Williams, John O. Mone, Henry W. “X” Williamson. Court 21 October 1839 (WB6/97)
1839 September 23 – Norfolk County: “Died – At his residence in St. Bride’s Parish, Norfolk County, near the Cedar Grove on September 23, age 50 years, Henry Tatem, leaving wife, mother, and sisters.
American Beacon and Norfolk and Portsmouth Daily Advertiser, publication 27 September 1839, p.2, c6; Library of Virginia
Children of James Tatem (~1751 to 1815) continued, (bb) to (ee):
(bb). Wilson Tatem (~1800 to 1827) married 19 February 1816 to Hannah M. Halstead. Norfolk Norfolk taxes for Wilson Tatem began in 1816, but there are none for the years 1823 and 1824 (not checked thereafter).
1822 November 18 – Norfolk County: Wilson Tatem. Administrator Matt Holstead with additional security provided by Robert B. Wilson and James E. Wilson for a bond of $1000.
1827 December 20 – Norfolk County: Wilson Tatem estate, no will. Administrator Hannah Tatem with additional security provided by Henry Tatem and William Holstead for a bond of $1000 – “unadministered” by Matthew Herbert. Estate auditors were Henry Tatem and James Tatem.*
Norfolk County, Virginia (Extant) Administrators Bonds 1711-1850, by Sharon Rea Gable and Truit M. Bonney, 2008.
* Norfolk County Audit Book 6/51.
Children of Wilson Tatem and wife Hannah M. Halstead, as noted on Henry Tatem’s will:
(1^) Joseph M. Tatem (~1817)
1838 January 29 – Norfolk City: Joseph Tatem age 21, to Harriet F. Douglass by Rev. D.S. Doggett.
(2^) Henry. W. Tatem.
(cc). Prudence Tatem marriage bond 23 January 1806 to John Cooper. Father noted to be James Tatem.
(dd). Patsy Tatem marriage bond 27 February 1815 Norfolk to Thomas Carson (country record).
(ee). Nancy Tatem
(ff). Rebekah Tatem marriage bond William Nash, per Henry Tatem’s will. Norfolk & Portsmouth Daily Advertiser (19 Dec. 1827) adds marriage on Saturday 15 December 1827 by Rev. Jones, William G. Nash to Miss Rebecca Tatem, youngest daughter of James Tatem, deceased.
2nd Marriage Children of Nath. Tatem “IV” (1716 to 1787) + Dinah Nash
Per will, (a) to (f) – Note that will doesn’t separate children by wives.
Married 1755 (Norfolk County Record, (v), etc.
(a). Thomas Tatem (~1756 to 1800) married Martha __.
1771 December 20 – Norfolk County: (minors) Dinah Tatem, Thomas Tatem, Molly Tatem, and Lydia Tatem – Orphans of Nathaniel Tatem. Guardian – Dinah Tatem. Additional Security – Matthew Godfrey, Charles Mayle, John Nash.
Norfolk County, Virginia Guardian Bonds, 1750-188, by Elizabeth B. Wingo, 1993.
1780 Norfolk County tax – From Great Bridge to Ferry Point: 3 Tithables for Dinah Tatem for son Thomas Tatem and negroes James and Jenny.
1784-1800 Norfolk County Tax, Western Branch, Portsmouth/Elizabeth River Parishes: Thomas Tatem
Slaves: James 1784-1786; Jenny 1784-1786; Joseph (<age 16) 1785-1786; Easter 1785 (<age 16); unnamed thereafter.
1795 March 24 – Norfolk County: James Herbert and Dinah his wife, of Norfolk County deeded To Thomas Tatem of same place…for 25 pounds Va. money, lot #13 in the town of Washington,* Norfolk County…in the plan of said town…about 147 feet on Liberty Street. (Signed): James Herbert, Dinah Herbert. Witnesses: Robert Herbert, Sheldon Toomer, Fanny Toomer. Recorded _ July 1795. (DB 35/197)
Town of Washington became Berkley in 1891, then part of Norfolk City in 1906.
1800 August 8 – Norfolk County: Will of Thomas Tatem: “I, Thomas Tatem of Washington” …give unto my loving wife Martha Tatem, the house and lot I now live on during her natural life. I also give to my said wife all my household and kitchen furniture and a Negro man id Joe, I also give all stocks subject to the use aforesaid during her natural life and after that period, I desire that the property I have given to my wife may be equal, divided between my children: Elizabeth, Martha, Thomas, William, Mariah, Dianah, and Robert. Lastly I do appoint my wife Martha Executrix to this my last will and testament. Signed: Thomas Tatem (seal), Witnesses: Maxim’n Herbert, Christopher Herbert, Thomas Portlock. Will dated 8 August 1800 and proved 20 April 1800 - ?. Probably “20 April” is 20 April 1800/1801.
Collection of Unrecorded Wills, Norfolk County, Virginia 1711-1800, by Elizabeth B. Wingo, 1961. Page 111.
Children of Thomas and Martha Tatem, per will:
(aa). Elizabeth Tatem
(bb). Martha Tatem
(cc) Thomas Tatem “II”
(dd) William Tatem
(ee). Mariah Tatem
(ff) Dianah Tatem. May or may not belong here: Married on Thursday, by Rev. Paxton; Charles Clark to Miss Diana Tatem. (Norfolk and Portsmouth Herald), Publication Monday, 26 January 1818, Lib. of Va. online.
(gg). Robert H. Tatem (~1799 to 26 March 1849 and buried at Cedar Grove Cemetery, Portsmouth, Virginia) married 1st to Ann R. Gheselin (died 23 November 1824 Portsmouth) and 2nd to Margaret __ and/or on 6 June 1826 Portsmouth to Mary Ann Bruce. Robert H. Tatem was a lumber distributor in Portsmouth. Norfolk taxes for him begin in 1818. In 1854 and 1855, the great Yellow Fever Epidemic probably took the lives of two of his children, Howard N. and Roselia B. Tatem. Another death reported under the names of Robt. H. Tatem and Mary Tatem was Chas. C. Tatem who died 28 August 1855. Relationship is not known.
1822 April 11 - Norfolk County: Marriage Bond of Robert H. Tatem to Miss Ann R. Gheselin, Lewis R. Pallard. (county record).
1829 November 4 – Norfolk County: Robert H. Tatem and Margaret Tatem my wife of Norfolk County deeded to Thomas Carney of same county, land in Norfolk County on east side of Sterlings Creek…for $125. Signed; Robert H. Tatem and Mary Ann Tatem. Entered 4 November 1829. (DB55/109)
1830 US Census of Norfolk County, Portsmouth: 1 male and 1 female 0-5; 1 male 30-39; 1 female 20-29; 1 slave.
1840 US Census of Norfolk County, Portsmouth: 1 male 40-49; 1 female 20-29, 1 male and 1 female 0-5; 1 male and female 10-14, 2 females 5-9, 1 slave.
1846 May 1 – Portsmouth, Norfolk County: Will of Robert H. Tatem gives estate to wife Mary Ann Tatem, and if she should marry, then 1/3 and rest to unnamed children. Signed: Robert H. Tatem. Witnesses: William P. Herbert and John R. Kelly. Probated 21 May 1849.
1850 US Census of Portsmouth, Norfolk County: Mary Ann Tatum 40; Indiana M. Tatum 21, Mary D. Tatum 19, Martha R. Tatum 16, Roselia B. Tatum 14, Julian Tatum 6, Robert H. Tatum 2, Cara B. Tatum 1, Wm L. Mosg 31 Merchant, Elizabeth Mosg 24.
1860 US Census of Portsmouth Independent City, Jackson Ward: Thos A Bain 32, Indiana M. Bain 31, Mary A. Bain 1/12, Mary A. Tatem 50, Julia A. Tatem 16, Carey P. Tatem 10.
Children of Robert H. Tatem and wife Mary Ann __
Names from census records
(1^) Howard N. Tatem (~1828 to 14 February 1854 Portsmouth, per Va. Death’s, ancestry.com) married Mary Ann Lousia __. Daughter - Mary Lucress Tatem, born 1850 married on 11 August 1868 Portsmouth to Warner L. Howelett.
(2^). Indiana M. Tatem (1828/29 26 August 1893 Portsmouth) married Thomas A. Bain.
(3^). Mary D. Tatem (1830/31)
(4^). Martha R. Tatum (1833/34)
(5^). Rosalie B. Tatem (1835/36 to 26 August 1855)
(6^). Julia Ann Tatem (1843/44). Petersburg Index notes Julia A. Tatem, Portsmouth married Willis W. Hargroves. (Lib. of Va.)
(7^). Robert H. Tatem 1847/48)
(8^). Cara (Carey) B. Tatum (1849/50)
(b). Dinah Tatem (born 1755/58) married on 2 March 1774 Norfolk County to James Herbert (county record).
(c). Molly Tatem (born 1755-71) married a Wilson, per her Mother’s will.
(d). William Tatem (born 1755-71 to February 1792).
1771 November 21 – Norfolk County: William Tatem – Orphan of Nathaniel Tatem. Guardian – Charles Mayle. Additional Security: Abram Wormington, John Nash. Bond – 300 pounds.
Norfolk County, Virginia Guardian Bonds, 1750-1800, by Elizabeth B. Wingo, 1993.
1774 May 20 – Norfolk County: William Tatem – Orphan of Nathaniel Tatem. Guardian – John Nash. Additional Security – Malachi Maund. Bond – 500 pounds.
Norfolk County, Virginia Guardian Bonds, 1750-1800, by Elizabeth B. Wingo, 1993.
1786 January 17 – Norfolk County: Will of William Tatem, administered 21 Feb. 1792.
Executor: none
To brother Thomas Tatem: negro boy Jo; a horse, saddle, and bridle, all of my estate
Witnesses: none
Archibald Williamson and James Williams make deposition that this will in in handwriting of said testator and signed properly.
Thomas Tatem given letters of Administration on the Estate of William Tatem.
Norfolk County, Virginia Will Book III, 1788-1802 by Ethel W. Brewstar, 1986, page 85, (WB 3/85)
(f). Lydia Tatem (born ~1769) was probably the youngest child.
1771 December 20 – Norfolk County: Dinah Tatem, Thomas Tatem, Molly Tatem and Lydia Tatem
Norfolk County, Virginia Guardian Bonds, 1750-1800, by Elizabeth B. Wingo, 1993.
1785 May 19 – Norfolk County: Lydia Tatem – Orphan of Nathaniel Tatem. Guardian- George Wilson. Additional Security – Thomas Tatem. Bond – 100 pounds.
Norfolk County, Virginia Guardian Bonds, 1750-1800, by Elizabeth B. Wingo, 1993.
1785 May 21 - Norfolk County: Marriage bond of Lydia Tatem to John Trimble (county record).
The above 1785 records suggests Lydia Tatem was an infant in 1771 when her father died. By 1785, she was now old enough to marry. This might give her an estimated birth date of 1769.