This Chapter
Third Generation – Nathaniel Tatum (~1670 – 1738+) and his Descendants
1st generation – Nathaniel Tatum – the Immigrant (~1599)
2nd generation Samuel Tatum “I” (~1635/40 to 1715)
New for 2009 and 2010
· News details on grandson Peter Tatum and Mary Epes (Eppes)
· Tatums who migrated to Georgia
· Details for Epes Tatum
· Nathaniel + Emelia + Sarah Tatum now placed here
New for 2011
Nathaniel Tatum
Born: Not known, but currently estimated ~1670
Died: Last known record in 1738 at approximate age of 68
Married: Elizabeth, her last name unknown
Parents: Samuel Tatum “I” (1635/1640’s to 1715) + Mary (born ? to 1715)
Family records: None identified at this time
Will or estate administration? County Records failed to survive during this era
Elizabeth __
Born: Date unknown.
Recorded: 1718 x 2, 1727, and 1738
Died: after 1738
Parents: Not known
First writing 1 February 2007; last revision 28 September 2012; This revision 1 December 2015, J. R. Murphy, www.planetmurphy.org.
Comment: This is a reconstruction of Nathaniel and Elizabeth Tatum and their family. It is currently an on-going process and has already had a number of unexpected surprises. Family lines descending from this pair are already very different than earlier writings by others.
Tatums Covered in This and related Chapters:
(I). Nathaniel Tatum “I” (~1670 to >1738+) and wife Elizabeth (? To >1738+); Virginia Counties - Charles City/County and Prince George. Children are (1 - 3) and grandchildren (i – iv etc)
(1). Peter Tatum “I” (~1705 to >1751+) and wife Mary Epps; Virginia Counties - Prince George, Surry and possibly elsewhere after 1751: children are (i-ii)
(i) Peter Tatum “II” (1743 – 1791-will) + wife Rebecca Howell of Prince George & Meckelburg Counties, Virginia; Bute NC; Wilkes Ga. Children are (a) through (h): (a) Howell Tatum (1765-1833), (b) Epps Tatum (~1766), (c) Peter Tatum “III,” (d) Rebeccah Tatum, (e) Nancy Tatum, (f) Polly Tatum, (g) Sally Tatum, (h) Thomas Tatum.
(ii) Epps Tatum “I” (1734 to 1789/93-will) + wife; Virginia Counties - Prince George, Sussex; Children are (a) through (e):
(a) Littlebury Epes Tatum (~1768). (b) Joel Carter Tatum, (c) Peter Tatum (~1777), (d) Epes Tatum “II”, (e) Jane Tatum
(2). Nathaniel Tatum “II” (~1700 – 1763+) + 1st wife (likely) Emelia Scott and 2nd wife (likely) Sarah Heath (Heeth), Prince George, Sussex, Brunswick, Virginia. One child per 1st wife Emelia Scott:
(i) Robert Tatum (1725-1759) + wife Keziah Dobie (? To 1795) of Prince George County, Va. Children are (a) Nathaniel Tatum (1745 to >1784+) and where did he go? (b) Robert Tatum (1750 to 1810/1820), (c) Betty Tatum, (d) David Tatum.
Wife Sarah Heath Tatum married first to Peter Tatum (~1710 to 1751 Will), son of Edward Tatum (1670/80 to 1739) and had the following children: (i). Thomas Tatum (~1740 to 1780), (ii). Edward Tatum (1741 to __); (iii). Sarah Tatum (1744); (iv). Rebecca Tatum (1747 to 1751); (v). Wenia or Winney Tatum (1749)
(3). Samuel Tatum (~1692 to 1758-will) + 1st wife Phebe, 2nd wife Elizabeth; Virginia Counties - Prince George & Surry-Sussex: Children are (i – iv+). See their separate chapter for details.
(i). John Tatum (1710 to 1774 - estate administration) + Elizabeth; Virginia Counties - Prince George, Surry-Sussex, Southampton. Children are: (a) Mary Tatum (1741), (b) Joshua Tatum (? to 1775-will); never married, (c) Rebecca Tatum, (d) Richard Tatum (~1737 to ?) + Mary:
(ii). William Tatum (1717 to >1756); Virginia Counties - Prince George & Surry-Sussex
(iii). Elizabeth Tatum (1718 to >1756)
(iv). (possibly) George Tatum (~1721 to 1801-admin); Dinwiddie and Brunswick Virginia; Rowan North Carolina:
Earliest Known Records for Nathanial Tatum (~1670)
1702 September - Charles City County, Virginia: A copy of all entries in what place and by whom made since ye land o ye south side of Blackwater has been laid open. Entered by me, Robert Bolling, Surveyor of Charles City County (and includes):
Name: Nath'll Tatum Sr. and Jr. Other names mentioned in this entry are Jarvis Winfield, Doby...500 acres.
Name: Sam'll Tatum, Sr. Other names mentioned in this entry are Nath'll Tatum, Jr....200 acres
(English Duplicates of Lost Virginia Records, Patents, compiled by Louis de Cognets, Jr. 1958, page 72)
1704/05 - Prince George County, Virginia: Quit Rent Roll of Virginia (included)
Nath. Tatham, Sen.
Nath. Tatham, Jun.
Sam'el Tatham, Sr.
Sam'el Tatham, Jr.
(From "English Duplicates of Lost Virginia Records, Quit Rent Rolls," by Louis des Cognets, Jr.)
My interpretation of Nathaniel Tatum Senior and Junior in 1702-1705 is this: The immigrant Nathaniel Tatum (1599/1604 to 1674/75) was already dead. His son Nathaniel is now Senior (or "II") in the 1702 and 1704/05 records. There is no evidence that Nathaniel Senior or "II" had a son named Nathaniel Tatum "III." County records often used senior and junior to separate two persons by their age, not necessarily father and son. Therefore using this logic, Nathaniel Tatum, Junior should be the son of Samuel Tatum I.
1715 July 12 - Prince George County: Nathaniel Tatum appeared in court and appointed the administrator of his father's estate (who is) Samuel Tatum. Brothers-in-law Richard Carlisle and Thomas Mitchell provided his security.
(Tidewater Virginia Families, by Virginia Lee Hutcheson Davis 1989)
Richard Carlisle married Mary Tatum (born 1678) and Thomas Mitchell married Barbara Tatum, (born ~1680), both daughters of Samuel Tatum "I".
Joseph's Swamp Land, Prince George County, Virginia
Land Patent mentioning Nathaniel Tatum, Jr.
1715 October 31 - Prince George County: Nathaniel Tatum, Sr., (was granted a patent) of 321 acres in Prince Georges County and bounded at a corner hickory of Nathaniel Tatum, Jr. on the south side of Joseph's Swamp, 31 October 1716, and in consideration of 35 shillings.
Virginia Colonial Abstracts, Series 2, Volume 6, Prince George County, Volume 1, Land Patents 1666-1719 by Lindsay O. Duvall, 1962, page 56, original Book 10, page 309
Who are Nathaniel Tatum Senior and Junior in the 1715 deed? They are the same pair as before. In addition, there were two younger Nathaniel Tatums who probably had not reached 16 years of age, the minimum age for one to be taxed. These two were: 1 - Nathaniel Tatum (~1700) son of Nathaniel Tatum (~1670) and 2 – Nathaniel Tatum (~1705), son of Surry County's Edward Tatum (died 1739) and his wife Rebecka __. This Edward Tatum must not be confused with Brunswick County's Edward Tatum (~1700 - 1744) who married Martha __.
"Nathaniel Tatum (Sr. or “II”) was the son of Nathaniel and Ann Tatum. ...He did not patent any additional land until 1715, when he acquired 321 acres adjacent to his nephew, Nathaniel Junior on the south side of Joseph Swamp in Prince George County."
"Tidewater, Virginia Families" 1990: Virginia Lee Hutcheson Davis
In conclusion: 1715 Nathaniel Tatum “Jr.” should be Nathaniel Tatum, son of Samuel Tatum “I.”
1717- 1730 Lands for Nathaniel Tatum (1770's) + Elizabeth
1717 July 15 - Prince George County: Nathaniel Tatum, Jr. was deeded 221 acres in Prince George County which (is) bounded at the corner hickory of the said Tatum along his own line, north...to a black oak of Samuel Tatum, Jr., thence along his line east, 15 July 1717 and in consideration on 25 Shillings. (Location not given)
(Virginia Colonial Abstracts, Series 2, Volume 6, Prince George County, Volume 1, Land Patents 1666-1719 by Lindsay O. Duvall, 1962, page 59, original Book 10, page 341.)
1717 July 15 – Prince George County: Virginia Land Grant to Nathaniel Tatum, Jr., 321 acres in Prince George County and bounded on the south side of Joseph's Swamp, thence along his line south....about 4 poles below Doby's bridge...15 July 1717 and in consideration of 35 shillings.*
1717 July 15 – Prince George County: Virginia Land Grant to John Fountain...175 acres of south side of Joseph's Creek adjoining Nathaniel Tatum Junior...to a white oak in the line of Nathaniel Tatum, Junior.
1718 January 10 - Prince George County: Nathaniel Tatum and Elizabeth, his wife, of Prince George County (sold) to Richard Carlile of same, 100 acres on south side of Joseph Swamp being part of a tract taken up and patented by Nathaniel Tatem and bounded on the watercourse of Josephs Swamp, about 4 poles below Dobys Bridge. Witness: Robert Jeffreys, Samuel (x) Tatem, Signed: Nathaniel (x) Tatum, Elizabeth (x) Tatum. At a Prince George Court held Tuesday, 10 March 1718. **
Which Samuel Tatum is this? Selecting the right one is not so easy during these years. Samuel Tatum “I” (1640's) died in 1714/1715. So Sam Tatum "II" (~1674) was now senior. The entries above should be Samuel Tatum (~1692), alias Junior - son of Nathaniel Tatum (~1670). There is no evidence that Sam Tatum “III” ever existed.
1718 January 21 - Prince George County: Nathaniel Tatum, Jr. and Elizabeth his wife, of Prince George County one year lease, release, & sale to Samuel Tatum of the same, 171 acres between Warwick and Joseph's Swamps in Prince George County being part of a tract taken up and patented by Nathaniel Tatum, Jr., beginning on a line in a meadow on the line of the patent...up said branch..... Witnesses: Abraham Heath, Edward Tatum. Signed: Nathaniel (x) Tatum, Elizabeth (x) Tatum. **
* Virginia Colonial Abstracts, Series 2, Volume 6, Prince George County, Volume 1, Land Patents 1666-1719 by Lindsay O. Duvall, 1962, page 56 and 59, original Book 10, page 341. Original Grants review at Library of Virginia on-line)
**(Prince George County, Virginia Records, Library of Virginia microfilm #1, page 280, 282-284)
Three 1727 Deeds by Nathaniel Tatum, Sr. (~1670) to his Three Sons follows:
1727 June 13 – Prince George County, Virginia: Nathaniel Tatum, Senr. of Bristol Parish, Prince George County, deeded to his son Nathaniel Tatum of same, 220 acres on the south side of Joseph's Swamp in Prince George County, bounded...on the south side of Joseph's Swamp to a corner between the said Nathaniel Tatum and Christopher Tatum...to dividing line between Nathaniel Tatum and Christopher Tatum, thence along the dividing line to Nathaniel Tatum's own line to a corner between Nathaniel Tatum, Junior and his brother Samuel Tatum...to the head of a branch which runs between the plantation of the said brothers, as a division between them, thence down said branch to the main water course of Joseph's Swamp, thence down said Swamp to the beginning. Witnesses: John Bonner, Junior, William Hamelton. (Signed) Nathaniel "x" Tatum, Senior. Deed: 12 June 1727; Court: 13 June 1727. (Prince George County Records 1713-1728, page 1004)
1727 June 13 – Prince George County: Nathaniel Tatum, Sr. of Bristol Parish, Prince George County, to his son Samuel Tatum of same, 100 acres on south side of Josephs Swamp, beginning at the south side of Joseph's Swamp at the mouth of a small branch which divides the land of Richard Carlile and the land of the of the said Samuel Tatum, thence up the said branch to the head...along a dividing line...to a hickory a the head of the dividing line between the said Samuel Tatum and his brother Nathaniel Tatum, Junior, thence along the dividing line between them to the head of a branch (between) said brothers plantation, thence down the branch to the main Joseph's Swamp, thence up the Swamp to the beginning. Witnesses: John Bonner, Jr. and Joseph Simons. Signed: Nathaniel "x" Tatum. Deed -12 June 1727. Court – 13 June 1727. (Prince George County Records 1713-1728, page 1006)
1727 June 13 – Prince George County: Nathaniel Tatum, Sr. of Bristol Parish, Prince George County, to his son Peter Tatum of same, 250 acres in Prince George County on the north side of Joseph's Swamp bounded...beginning on the north side of the swamp, thence along the lines between Nathaniel Tatum and Edward Tatum to a corner red oak, thence along Nathaniel Tatum's own line to a corner white oak standing on the east side of a small branch, which tree is a corner tree, between the said Nathaniel Tatum and his brother Samuel Tatum, thence up the said branch being a branch to a mark __ Black Oak sapling, thence along the said dividing line to a corner pine standing in the out line, thence along the line to a corner red oak standing near Scotts Path, thence along his own out line binding on James Gees land to a white oak standing near the main Joseph's Swamp, thence to the main watercourse, then down the said swamp to the beginning. 250 acres including the plantation wherein the Nathaniel Tatum now liveth...(with) reservation to the indenture to the heirs...(about) the aforesaid parcel of land with the appurtenances...after the death of the of Nathaniel Tatum and Elizabeth, his wife... father and mother...do grant...all the estate, rights...unto Peter Tatum his heirs and assignees. Witnesses: Joseph Summers, John Bonner, Junior. (Signed) Nathaniel "x" Tatum. Deed – 12 June 1727; Court 13 June 1727. (Because the last ½ of both the lease and release was so faded, wording from both is mixed and used here. (Prince George County Records 1713-1728, page 1009)
1730 September 28 – Surry County, Virginia: Virginia Land Grant in Surry County to Stephan Houseman 16 acres of the west side of Joseph's Swamp beginning and extending on the south side of a small branch...to a corner between Robert Doby and Nathaniel Tatum.... (Library of Virginia On-line Grants)
This 1730 deed doesn't state which Nathaniel Tatum. Based on the above deeds, three sons of Nathaniel and Elizabeth Tatum are identified. Daughters do not surface in known records. Birth date estimations are still crude but getting better.
(1) Samuel Tatum (~1692)
(2) Nathaniel Tatum (~1700)
(3) Peter Tatum. (~1705)
Joseph's Swamp (watercourse or creek) is one of the most common deeded sites for the Tatums. "Tatum Road" still exists on the south side of Josephs Swamp in today's maps! The eastern 1/3 of Tatum Road is now over grown by trees (April 2009). The land in the area has deteriorated badly to a very thin loam layer covering far too much sand. Few people live in the area and the land is not useable for much but hunting.
Prince George County deed records were lost after 1728 and court records after 1739. In fact, only one deed book and some miscellaneous papers survived between the years 1728 and 1787. Because of this, tracking these people after 1728 becomes really difficult. Bristol Parish Processions fail to identify specific land owners, unlike Albemarle Parish in Surry and Sussex Counties.
1738 Deed Witnessed by Nathaniel + Elizabeth Tatum
1738 May 9 - Surry County: Indenture, Samuel Tatum and Elisabeth his wife of Prince George County deeded to John Tatum of Surry County for the natural love and affection which they have and bear to the said John Tatum their son one certain tract or parcel of land containing 85.5 acres and bounded as followeth: beginning at a pine in the county line thence about east along the line of William Heeth to a corner red oak and thence about south along the line of Adam Heeth and the line of William Robertson and so across the said Samuel Tatum's land to the beginning with all houses, buildings, orchards, woods, etc. ....which said granted land premises are situate lying and being between Warwick and Joseph Swamp in the Parish of Southwark and county of Surry...is the land the said John Tatum now liveth. Witnesses: Nathaniel Tatum, Elizabeth Tatum. (Signed): Samuel (x) Tatum, Elizabeth (x) Tatum. May 1738 Court. (DB 8/860-861)
Nathaniel + Elizabeth Tatum, Samuel + Elizabeth Tatum, and John Tatum are three consecutive generations of Tatums in this document. That's our last known record for Nathaniel and Elizabeth Tatum. Some might question if they were the Edgecombe County, North Carolina bound pair who had identical first names. Southwark Parish covered this part of Surry County until Albemarle Parish was established in late 1741. In 1753/54, this section of Surry County became Sussex County.
When Did Nathaniel Tatum Die?
There are several deaths to consider:
(1). Edgecombe County, North Carolina records a "plantar" named Nathaniel Tatum who purchased a 1742 deed there. In 1750, Nathaniel Tatum made his Edgecombe County will, naming his wife Elizabeth, sons - Edward, Nathaniel, Peter, Jesse Tatum, daughter Rebecka. The will was processed in early 1751. The similarity of names is so striking that these records cannot be ignored.
However in 1742, our Nathaniel Tatum (born ~1670) would seem too old (~72) to become a new 1742 "plantar" in North Carolina. In addition, this author believes the son's names in the 1750 will are sequentially listed by age. This would make Edward Tatum the oldest and possibly named for his Surry County grandfather Edward Tatum and daughter Rebecka for her grandmother, Rebecka Tatum. Because of these reasons, this writer (JRM) assigns the Edgecombe County Tatums to Edward Tatum (1670/1680 - 1739) + Rebecka.
(2). "1736 November 3 - Brunswick County Court: " Payments: William Maclin, Gent. (for an inquisition on the body of Nathaniel Tatum)" Nothing further has been found.
(From Ronnie Tatum and Brunswick Court Orders 1732-1737, page 139, email courtesy 10 March 2009)
Our Nathaniel Tatum (~1670) witnessed a 1738 deed and therefore should not be the deceased 1736 Brunswick County Nathaniel Tatum. By 1738, our Nathaniel Tatum would be about the age of 68 and would presume he would not live much longer. His death and probate is probably lost with other Prince George County records.
Children of Nathaniel + Elizabeth Tatum:
(4th Generation), great grandchildren of Nathaniel Tatum "I" – the Immigrant are underlined and boxed, (1) Samuel Tatum (~1692), (2) Peter Tatum 'I" (~1705)
5th generation with (i), (ii), (iii), with name underlined, (i) Peter Tatum "II"
6th generation with bold letters, (a), (b), (c), etc
7th generation with (aa), (bb), (cc), etc
8th generation with (1^), (2^), (3^), etc
(1). Peter Tatum "I" (estimated born ~1705) is the son of Nathaniel Tatum (~1670 – 1738+). Peter married Mary Epps (~1709 - >1744) and had two known children named Littlebury Tatum (1731) and Peter Tatum "II" (1742/43). Peter Tatum "I" either died after August 1751 or more likely migrated somewhere. His early lands were on the north side of Joseph's Swamp and were partly in Prince George and Surry-Sussex Counties.
Separating this Peter Tatum from other Peter Tatums
There is another Peter Tatum (~1710 to April 1751) who married Sarah Heath (Heeth), daughter of William and Elizabeth Heath. This Peter Tatum was the son of Edward (~1670/80) and wife Rebecka. Peter and Sarah had 5 children, with 2 sons named Thomas Tatum (~1740) and Edward Tatum (1742). This family lived on the north side of Joseph's Swamp in Surry-Sussex Counties. In fact, the two Peter Tatums lived very close to one-another on Josephs Creek.
There is a 3rd Peter Tatum (born ~1675 to 1771) who married Mary __ and received a 1728 Virginia Land Grant in nearby Brunswick County. This Peter appears to make continuous records there, possibly ending with a 1771 Brunswick County inventory. He lived almost a century and was the son of Nathaniel Tatum "II" (1635/40's – 1719).
Another Tatum – Eppes Family
Several website listings state the father of Epes Tatum was John Tatum (1707/1717 to 1766), son of Christopher Tatum I. John Tatum married Mary Epps, daughter of Daniel and Mary Epps. John's will named only one child, Mary (Tatum) Young.
Results of y-dna Testing
Recent y-dna test results compared a descendant from this Peter Tatum "I" & "II" with two descendants of George Tatum (~1721). George's father may be the brother of our subject Peter Tatum "I" (~1705 to 1751+). One George Tatum (~1721) descendant – from the line of James Tatum (~1755 – 1828) has only one mismatch in 67 markers. The other George Tatum descendant - Haley Tatum line, also scored one mismatch in 67 markers. Both are excellent results linking to a common ancestor so many generations back in time. Results are available at www.familytreedna.com.
Details about Peter Tatum "I" (~1705 – 1755+) + Mary Epps
(Son of Nathaniel Tatum (~1670 – 1738+) + Elizabeth)
1722/3 February 22 - Prince George County, Virginia: Surveys made from June 1722 to June 1723 by Robert Bolling, Surveyor: "Peter Tatum, Jr., son of Nathaniel Tatum" on north side of Joseph's Swamp, 281 acres.
(Prince George County, Virginia Records, Part 3, 1713-1728)
1726 July 6 – Prince George County: Virginia Land Grant in Prince George County to Peter Tatum, Jr., son of Nathaniel Tatum of Prince George County, 281 acres on the north side of Joseph's Swamp, ...below the trading path...up the side of a branch...to Mathew Lee's line.
(Library of Virginia on-line Land Grants)
Notice that Peter Tatum is written as Peter Tatum, Junior and he was the son of Nathaniel Tatum of Prince George County. There were two other Peter Tatums to consider. One was Peter Tatum (~1710) across the county line, son of Edward Tatum (~1670/80 – 1739), but Peter is estimated to be younger. The other was Peter Tatum (ca1670/80), son of Nathaniel Tatum "II," (~1635-1640's) who would soon move to Brunswick County in 1728.
1727 June 12 - Prince George County: Nathaniel Tatum, Sr. of Bristol Parish, Prince George County, deeded to his son Peter Tatum of same, 250 acres in Prince George County on the north side of Joseph's Swamp bounded...beginning on the north side of the swamp, thence along the lines between Nathaniel Tatum and Edward Tatum to a corner red oak, thence along Nathaniel Tatum's own line to a corner white oak standing on the east side of a small branch, which tree is a corner tree, between the said Nathaniel Tatum and his brother Samuel Tatum, thence up the said branch being a branch to a mark __ Black Oak sapling, thence along the said dividing line to a corner pine standing in the out line, thence along the line to a corner red oak standing near Scotts Path, thence along his own out line binding on James Gees land to a white oak standing near the main Joseph's Swamp, thence to the main watercourse, then down the said swamp to the beginning. 250 acres including the plantation wherein the Nathaniel Tatum now liveth...(with) reservation to the indenture to the heirs...(about) the aforesaid parcel of land with the appurtenances...after the death of the of Nathaniel Tatum and Elizabeth, his wife... father and mother...do grant...all the estate, rights...unto Peter Tatum his heirs and assignees. Witnesses: Joseph Summers, John Bonner, Junior. (Signed) Nathaniel "x" Tatum. Deed – 12 June 1727; Court 13 June 1727. (The two sections of lease and release indentures were blended into this abstract. The last ½ of each had unreadable portions but slightly different wording)
(Prince George County Records 1713-1728, page 1009+)
1731 – Bristol Parish Register: Littlebery Tatum, son of Peter and Mary Tatam (was) born 10 April 1731 and Baptized 18 November 1731.
1738 April 11 - Prince George County Court: Peter Tatum came into court and said Mathew Lee, late of this county, who died without a will. He entered into bond as administrator with Richard Carlile as his security. At a subsequent meeting, Peter Tatum, administrator of Mathew Lee, deceased, returned the inventory and appraisal.
1738 August 8 - Prince George County Court held at Fitzgerralds: On complaint of Hugh Lee on behalf of the orphans of Mathew Lee, deceased, it is ordered that Peter Tatum, Administrator of Mathew Lee; neither party appeared. Case was dismissed.
1739 August 20 – Bristol Parish Vestry: Meeting held at the Brick Church on Well’s Hill, …that William Cotton and Peter Tatum Procession the land below Jones Hole Road between the Parish line and Warwick Swamp.
1739 November 13 - Prince George County Court: Grand Jury impaneled – included Peter Tatum.
(Prince George County, Virginia Records 1733-1792, by Benjamin B. Weisiger III, 1975, page 3, 14)
Mathew Lee is noted in a 1728 deed (above) adjacent Peter Tatum on the north side of Joseph's Swamp. Mathew may be a descendant of Ann Tatum Lee, daughter of Samuel Tatum "I." Also, notice that in 1739, Peter Tatum is processioning land near the western terminus of Joseph's Swamp – land between Jones Hole and Warwick Swamp. This suggests that he added land. This writer believes Peter Tatum's earlier Joseph's Swamp lands lay in two counties – both Bristol Parish of Prince George County and Albemarle Parish of Surry/Sussex Counties. That is why he was noted in both counties.
1743 – Bristol Parish Register: Peter Tatum, son of Peter and Mary Tatum (was) born 27 January 1742/43 and Baptized 2 May 1743.
1743 October - Albemarle Parish (Surry County): Richard Carter and David Jones procession from Cooks Bridge along the Road to Joseph Swamp, then thence up the Swamp to Prince George Line and along that line to the beginning: (includes) Adam Heath, John Tatum, Peter Tatum, Peter Tatum, Jun. Present while processioning included Peter Tatum.
(Albemarle Parish Vestry Records)
The italicized Peter Tatum, Jun should be Peter Tatum (~1710 - 1751) – son of Edward Tatum (~1670/80 to 1739) who married Sarah Heath. Keep in mind that his will was administered in April 1751. The other “Peter Tatum” should be our subject.
1743, 1747, 1751 – Bristol Parish Vestry: 22 August 1743, 31 July 1747, and August 1751… Charles Gee and Peter Tatum (with the freeholders of their precinct) Procession the lands between Jones Hole Road between the county and Parish lines and Warwick Swamp.
(Three separate entries combined from Vestry Book of Bristol Parish, Virginia 1720 – 1789)
The 1747 Albemarle records for this group near Joseph's Swamp failed to survive. Even David Jones, the Procession Master was missing.
1751 September - Albemarle Parish Vestry: David Jones and William Cook procession by Cooks Bridge along Cooks Road to Joseph Swamp thence up the said Swamp to Prince George County Line and by that Line to Black Swamp thence to the beginning: (included) William Heath's land, Peter Tatum's land, Peter Tatum's land (twice stated)....
After August 1751, Peter Tatum (son of Nathaniel Tatum) disappears as a Bristol Procession Master. The August 1755 and January 1760 Processions for Bristol now had Charles Gee and James Hall procession lands below Jones Hole Road between the county and Parish lines and Warwick Swamp. The western terminus of Joseph's Swamp would be midway between them. County records for Prince George are lost for this era and can't help us.
1751 October 11 - Surry County: Peter Tatum of Bristol Parish in Prince George County deeded to William Heeth of Albemarle Parish in Surry County, for 15 pounds...a certain tract or parcel of land lying in Albemarle Parish in Surry County containing 173 acres part whereof lyeth in County of Prince George and part in the Surry County purchased by the said Peter Tatum from John Tatum on 11 June 1751 and recorded in Prince George County Court, bounded as followeth beginning at and along Adam Heath's land to and along Abraham Heeth's land, thence along a line of said Peter Tatum's to a corner of said Tatum's land, then along a line of said William Heeths thence along a line of Adam Heeth's to beginning. (Signed) Peter "PJ" – his mark Tatum Witnesses: Thomas Young, Abraham Heeth, Henry Gee, William Heeth, Junior. (Signed again in similar fashion concerning possession delivered to William Heeth.
Thanks go to Ed Tatum for sharing details, email 14 December 2009
Here, the Heath (Heeth) clan is heavily represented and couldn’t be more confusing. The other Peter Tatum (~1710 to April 1751) had married Sarah Heath, daughter of William and Elizabeth Heath. It becomes important to make sure we have the correct Peter Tatum. Ed Tatum comes to the rescue. He states Peter Tatum's had a signature of "PT" on this deed is the same as his "PT" as a witness to Edward Tatum's 1739 will, and such witness would not be Peter Tatum who was the son of Edward Tatum and executor of the will.
(Courtesy of Ed Tatum, email of 27 November 2009)
What Happened to Peter Tatum "I" after 1751?
1755 March - Albemarle Parish Vestry: David Jones and William Cook procession from Cooks Bridge along Cooks Road to Joseph Swamp so to Prince George County Line thence by that Line to Backwater thence to the Beginning: (included) the land of Peter Tatum, deceased.
(Albemarle Parish Vestry Book, 1742-1786 – Surry and Sussex Counties, Virginia, by Virginia Lee Hutcheson Davis and Andrew Wilburn Hogwood)
The March 1755 Albemarle Parish Procession notes "Land of Peter Tatum, deceased." This must be Edward's Peter Tatum (~1710) who had his will administered in April 1751. If we have the correct person, our subject, Peter Tatum (~1705) sold all his Surry County land to William Heath in October of 1751.
1755 February 25 - Brunswick County, Virginia: Appraisal of the estate of "Peter Tatum, Jr. deceased." Appraised by Edward "x" Robinson, Thomas Jackson, Robert Hix. Signed by Nathaniel Tatum, administrator. Returned to Court 25 February 1755.
(Brunswick County, Virginia Will Books, Volume 1-3, by Dr. Stephen E. Bradley, Jr., page 84, 1997, Will Book 3)
The above record is a surprise because the county is Brunswick. Little is known about this Peter Tatum, Jr. His administrator is thought to be Brunswick’s Nathaniel Tatum (1735 – 1796) who married Phebe Fort. Peter’s estate inventory is sparse and to this writer, suggests a single person. He probably belongs to one of the Brunswick Tatums. Without more information, he can be only mentioned here. So, what did happen to Prince George County's Peter Tatum (~1705), son of Nathaniel Tatum (~1670)?
Children of Peter Tatum "I" (~1705 – 1755+) and Mary Eppes:
There are only two children: (i) Peter Tatum “II” and (ii) Epes Tatum “I”
(i). Peter Tatum "II" (born 27 January 1742/43 and died before August 1791) married Rebecca Howell. Rebecca married 2nd on 9 April 1793 to Henry Hains or Hayes. ^^
^^ Email, courtesy of Walter Monroe III, 24 June 2010
According to Purse and Person, this Peter Tatum "moved to Mecklenburg County (Virginia) by 1765 and in 1771 to Bute County, North Carolina, where in 1775 he signed the Association to support actions of the Continental Congress and in 1778 took the oath of allegiance. Early in 1785, he moved to Wilkes County, Georgia. He married Rebecca Howell, daughter of John and Sarah (Parker) Howell, who married 2nd on 9 April 1793 to Henry Haines."
(Adventurers of Purse and Person – Virginia 1607-1624/5, Fourth Edition, by John Frederick Dorman, Volume 3, page 277).
Specifics on Peter "II" (1743 – 1791) + Rebecca Howell
1770 November 8 - Bute County, North Carolina: Samuel Freeman of Bute County deeded to Peter Tatum of Meckelburg County, Virginia to 500 pounds...400 acres in Bute County on the north side of Sandie Creek. Witnesses: None. Recorded: 13 November 1771.
(Warren County N.C. Records, Volume 11 Supplement, Abstracts of Bute County, N.C. deeds registered in Warren County Deed Books 1-7, 1766-1779, by Jesse Eubank Harris and Mary Henton Kerr, 1967, page 152.)
1771 November 11 - Bute County: Peter Tatum deeded to John Howell and Sarah his wife, all of Bute County, 250 pounds...200 acres in Bute...land being part of tract bought from Sam Freeman from the mouth of Siercy's Branch to Sandy Creek adjacent Pierce and Thomas Hill. Witnesses: John Gibbs, Ben Hill. Acknowledged by Peter Tatum February County 1772, recorded 2 May 1772. (Ibid, page 152)
1774 October 1 - Bute County: Witnesses to a debt paid off from Stephan Scarborough to Benjamin Hill were John Howell, Peter Tatum - August Court 1774.
(Ibid, page 185, their source: Bute County Deed Book 5, page 39)
Other Records for Peter Tatum “II” (1743 – 1791) + Rebecca Howell
1765 - Mecklenburg County, Virginia (est. 1764 from Lunenburg): birth of Howell Tatum, son of Peter and Rebeccah Tatum. *
1769 - Mecklenburg County: Peter Tatum sold land to William and Mary Pennington - details not available.
1770-71 - Bute County, North Carolina: 1771 tax list.
1775 May 12 - Bute County: "to Tatum's Mill, thence up Sandy Creek to County Line."^
1775 July 8 - Bute County Committee of Safety: (included) Peter Tatam (next to Benjamin Hill. ^
1778- Bute County: Oath of Allegiance taken by Peter Tatum
~1780/81: Peter Tatum served in American Revolution* and is named in the SAR Revolutionary War Graves Register, 2000 Edition by Progeny, as a North Carolina soldier.
1785 - Wilkes County, Georgia: Peter becomes Power of Attorney for John Moody of Lunenberg County, Virginia. **
(possibly) 1785 October 3 – Georgia: Revolutionary War Bounty Land grant to “Peter Tatom” 287 ½ acres
Revolutionary War Bounty Land Grants, Lloyd DeWitt Bockstruck, 1996
1791 - Wilkes County, Georgia: Will of Peter Tatum
1792 - Wilkes County: Tax records indicate Peter Tatum owned ~1000 acres; wife Rebecca Tatum ~750 acres; Howell Tatum 200 acres. ^^
Abstracted Will of Peter Tatum "II" (1743-1791)
20 July 1791 Wilkes County Georgia - Will of Peter Tatum:
To Wife Rebecca land whereon I live, household goods, cattle, horses, etc. for life. Wife Rebeccah to raise my five last children and have the use of their slaves till they are 15 years old, then to be hired out until they are 18. Five last children: Rebeckah, Nancy, Polly, Sally, and Thomas. Final division to my 8 children.
To son Howell 200 acres where he lives
To son Epps a bounty of 287 ½ acres on Richland Creek in Greene County
To son Peter, another bounty of 287.5 acres on Richland Creek
To son Thomas 300 acres bough of William Green and known as Greenland and the land whereon I live at his mothers decease, when he is 21.
To daughters Rebecca, Nancy, Polly and Sally Tatum...
Wife Rebeccah and son Howell to be executors; witnesses Samuel Thornton, William Mosely, Wyche Goodwin, John Chandler. Probated 11 August 1791.^
6 February 1808 Wilkes County Montior: "Howell Tatum executor of Peter Tatum, deceased, applies for letters of dismission. Apparently, there was confusion or debt that extended out the administration for 17 years. ^^
^ Early Records of Georgia, Volume One, Wilkes County, by Grace Gillam Davidson, 1932: Thanks go to Walter Monroe III for finding this.
^^ Email 24 June 2010 courtesy of Walter Monore III
The last five in the will were reported to be under the age of 16 years.
* Information courtesy of Walter H. Monroe III, email 9 June 2010
^ Minutes of the Count of Pleas & Quarter Sessions Bute County, N.C. 1767-1779
Children of Peter Tatum ("II") + Rebeccah Howell, per will:
Children are (a) through (h).
(a) Epps Tatum (~1766) is found on the Oglethorpe County, Georgia tax for 1798. He married Sukie Pryor.
(b) Peter Tatum “III” is found on the Wilkes County tax list for 1791 and Oglethorpe County for 1798.
1793 September 10 – Greene County, Georgia: Indenture from Peter Tatum and Sandel his wife and Howell Tatum of Wilkes County, Georgia deeded to James Chambers of Greene County, Georgia for 80 pounds a track or parcel of land lying in said county on the waters of Richland Creek containing 287.5 acres formerly granted to Fredrick Ronnater by his Excellency Samuel Elbert, bearing the date of 17 August 1785…bounded by Jesse Harris land and vacant lands. Signed: Peter Tatum (seal), Sandal Tatum (seal), Howell Tatum (seal). Witnesses: Jas. Montgomery, Saml Thornton, J.P. Registered - 30 April 1794. (DB 2/part 1/107
(c) Rebeccah Tatum, (d) Nancy Tatum, (e) Polly Tatum, (f) Sally Tatum, (g) Thomas Tatum
(h) Howell Tatum (17 October 1765 Mecklinburg County, Virginia to 17 June 1833 Talledga or Lowndes County, Alabama) married 1786 Wilkes County, Georgia to Henrica Organ. Howell Tatum is found on Wilkes County tax list for 1791 and Oglethorpe County for 1798. This couple migrated to Alabama with all of their children before 1817 when it was still part of the Mississippi Territory and settled in the area of Autauga County. Howell came with his brother Eppes and possibly brothers Peter and Thomas. On 1 December 1831, Howell, Eppes, and William Tatum (son of Eppes -??) were issued land grants in Autauga County.
(Howell Tatum information is courtesy of Walter H. Monroe III, email of 9 June 2010. Thank you Walter)
Children of Howell Tatum “I” (1765 – 1833) + Henrica Organ
Children are (aa) through (hh). Dates vary with sources):
(aa) Joel Tatum (1789 Greene County, Georgia to 1857 Union County, Arkansas) married in Greene County to Polly Price in 1808.
(bb) Organ Tatum (27 August 1793 Greene County, Georgia to 8 March 1857 Marion, Union Parish, Louisiana per grave stone Marion Cemetery, Marion, Union Parish, Louisiana) married on 29 December 1814 Jasper County, Georgia to Alisey Vardeman (county record, as Alice Vardsaman)
(cc) Howell Tatum (1795 Greene County, Georgia to 1833 Autauga County, Alabama) married 27 July 1812 in Oglethorpe County, Georgia to Rebecca Pierce.
(dd) Peter Epps Tatum (1796 Greene County, Georgia to 1836 Montgomery County, Alabama) married 24 November 1817 in Montgomery County, Mississippi Territory to Martha Gause (county record). Peter moved between Montgomery and Autauga Counties and was appointed a commissioner to convey Seminole Indians from Florida to Arkansas.
(ee) Thomas Jefferson Tatum (~1790/1800 in Oglethorpe County, Georgia to >1860 Claiborne Parish, Louisiana.
(ff) Elizabeth Tatum (~1810/15 Oglethorpe County, Georgia to >1860 Hancock County, Georgia) married in Hancock County, Georgia to __ Eley.
(gg) Joshua Tatum (1804 Oglethorpe County, Georgia to __ Claiborne Parish, Louisana) married before 1828 Alabama (probably Autauga County) to Sarah Elizabeth Vardeman.
(hh) Berry Tatum was born in Oglethorpe County, Georgia.
** Early Records of Georgia, Wilkes County, By Grace Gillam Davidson, page 282, 49.
Continuing with Children of Peter Tatum "I" (~1705 to 1755+) + Mary Epps
(Son of Nathaniel Tatum (~1670 – 1738+) + Elizabeth)
(ii). Eppes Tatum "I" (born 10 April 1734 and died 1789/93) was the son of Peter Tatum "I." Eppes Tatum married Lucy Carter, daughter of Richard Carter. Spelling of Eppes includes Epps, Epes, etc and it is not clear which was preferred.
1775 May 18 - Sussex County: Peter Williams and wife, Rebecca William, and Eppes Tatum and wife Lucy Tatum of Prince George County deeded to William Carter, Jr. of Dinwiddie County (Rebecca William and Lucy Tatum are daughters of Richard Carter, deceased, late of Sussex County who left in his will dated 19 March 1762 this land on south side of Sappony Creek. Richard Carter, deceased named his four daughters Rebecca, Lucy, __, and Martha, the youngest, who is now Martha Baugh, the wife of Isham Baugh. Richard Carter, the younger, an executor is since dead.)..... The two daughters (Rebecca and Lucy) are selling their parts of the land for 36 pounds to William Carter, Jr.). (Rebecca Williams and Lucy Tatum relinquish their Rights of Inheritance) Witnesses: Joseph Carter, William Nelson and Elizabeth Tatum. Signed: Peter William, Rebecca Williams, Eppes Tatum, Lucy Tatum. Recorded: 18 May 1775.
(Sussex County, Virginia Deed Books 1754-`779, by William Lindsay Hopkins, page 172, 1990, Deed Book "E.")
1782 October 9 - Prince George County Court: Act of assembly for adjusting claims for property impressed or taken for (American Revolutionary) public service...claims included Epes Tatum – 1 beef, value of 2.1.8.
(Virginia Public Claims, Prince George County, Virginia, by Janice L Abercrombie.)
1782 to 1793 – Prince George County, Virginia: Tax payer records includes "Eppes Tatum" with 315 acres.
1788 March 31 - Prince George County Court: Boyce Gary and James Gary her son of Prince George County deeded to Thomas Lewis of the same for 200 pounds, 173 acres bounded by Claiborne's road, William Smith, James Gary, and Epps Tatum. Recorded 9 April 1788.
1789 May 2 – Prince George County, Virginia: Will of Epes Tatum of Sussex County. Lend use of 1/3 part of my land and plantation where son Littlebery Epes Tatum now lives, to wife Lucy for life. The other 2/3 to be sold and money divided between my four sons: Littlebury Epes Tatum, Joel Carter Tatum, Peter & Epes Tatum. If any of the four die before age 21, others are to get their share. To children Joel Carter Tatum, Joel Carter Tatum, Peter Tatum, Epes Tatum, Jane Daniel, and to Martha Carter (relationship not identified. Sons Peter and Epes to have one years schooling beside the present year. Executor: Friends William Bonner and Henry Watkers and son Littlebery. Dated 2 May 1789. Witnesses H. Walkins, Robert Tatum, Amey Rives. Signed: Eppes Tatum. Proved: 8 December 1789. (Prince George County, Virginia Records 1733-1792 by Benjamin B. Weisigner III, 1975, page 127, original 335)
1795 & 1796 – Prince George County tTax books (1794 is missing): “Eppes Tatum estate” of 315 acres, before disappearing.
At this time, I do not understand the disparity between the 1789 will probate and yearly tax records which continue to 1793.
Children of Epes Tatum “I” (1734 - ~1790) + Lucy Carter
Children noted with (a) through (e)
(a). Littlebury Epes Tatum (born about 1768) married Frances Raines Gee (born 28 August 1772).^ In 1794, Littlebury E. Tatum purchased in Sussex County 185 and 25 acres from Adam Heath and held them until 1797. Littlebery E. Tatum is on the 1810 U.S. Census of Prince George County. He held Warrick Swamp land in Prince George County from 1811 – 1816 next to his brother Peter Tatum, before lost to follow-up.
(^ Southside Virginia Genealogies, by John W. Pritchett, Genealogical Publishing County, Inc. 2006, on CD, page 1595.)
(b). Joel Carter Tatum. "Joel Carter Tatum" and his brother Peter Tatum are listed together on Prince George County land tax records with 250 acres south of Warrick Swamp from 1798 – 1808.
(c). Peter Tatum (estimated ~1777) married 1st to Susanna Heath and 2nd to Rebecca__.^ His father's will stated Peter will need schooling which tells us he was not an adult in 1789. 1796 Sussex County Tax records indicate Peter Tatum purchased 275 acres in Sussex County from __ Dobie's Estate, but his land is taxed only twice in 1796 and 1797. Between 1798 – 1808, Prince George Tax records show Peter and Joel Carter Tatum owned together 250 acres south of Warrick Swamp, which had been purchased from Charles Gee. After 1808, the next readable tax record begins again in 1811 and 62 ½ of these acres are now owned by Littlebury E. Tatum from 1811 to 1816.
(^ Pritchett, page 1595)
Prince George Court June 1812. Deed – Adam Heath, Frederick Heath, Epps Heath, Emanuel Temple and Patsy his wife, Peter Tatum and Susanna his wife deeded to Herbert Heath land....
(Prince George County, Virginia Miscellany 1711-1814, by Benjamin B. Weisiger III, 1986, page 72.)
After this, Tatum tax records seem confusing. In 1817, Peter Tatum Senior is now again in possession of all the previous 250 acres. 1817 is the first year for a Peter Tatum, Junior who appears with land on Josephs Swamp with increasing acreage (up to 785 acres) near Blackwater (Swamp) in Prince George County. Both continue with their taxed lands through 1825 which is as far as the microfilm covered.
(Prince George County Land Tax List 1782 -1825 on microfilm from Family History Library.)
(d). Eppes Tatum "II." 1789 Will of his father stated Epes needed one year of schooling. Epes Tatum is on the 1810 U.S. Census of Prince George County with a wife and one son, age 0-10. Private Eppes Tatum volunteered in the 62nd Virginia Regiment in the War of 1812-13. Several entries show him with Captain James Bonner's Company from Prince George County for 6+ months, most identifiable during 1813.* Prince George County land tax records do not name any Eppes Tatum as land owner during the years 1795 – 1825.
(* Virginia in the Revolution and War of 1812, that part Virginia Militia of the War of 1812, volume I and II, Genealogy.com on CD)
(e). Jane Tatum who married a Carter.
(2). Nathaniel Tatum "II" (born about 1700 and died after 1763) is the son of Nathaniel Tatum and grandson of Samuel of Samuel Tatum I. Current Theory: Nathaniel Tatum married:
1st about 1722 to Emelia (or Emilia) Scott, daughter of John and Bethia Boyce Scott.
2nd in 1758 to widow Sarah Heath Tatum, daughter of William Heath. Sarah Heath married 1st about 1740 to Peter Tatum (ca1710 – 1751). Sarah’s 1st husband - Peter Tatum (ca1710 – 1751) was the son of Edward Tatum (1670/80 – 1739) and Rebecca. It is very easy to become confused with multiple Nathaniel and Peter Tatums.
Beware that earlier works usually placed Nathaniel Tatum who married Emelia Scott as a son of Edward Tatum (1670/80) + wife Rebecca. ^
(^ Such as found in "Southside Virginia Genealogies," by John W. Pritchett, Genealogical Publishing County, Inc. 2006, on CD)
Point of debate: This writer (Jim Murphy) now believes this Nathaniel Tatum (Jr.), son of Nathaniel + Elizabeth Tatum, married Emelia Scott. There appears to be enough clues to make this arrangement. This Nathaniel Tatum later married Sarah Health Tatum, a widow. The two did live near Joseph's Swamp, and this Nathaniel Tatum appears to be about the right age.
(1). Nathaniel and Emelia Tatum had one child born in and two deeds reporting they were living in Prince George County. The so called other parents, Edward + Rebecca Tatum lived continuously in Surry County from 1707 and not Prince George County, (2). Emilia Scott Tatum's parents lived in Prince George.
(3). Son, Robert Tatum made his will in Prince George County.
(4). Grandson, Robert Tatum lived on 220 acres of Joseph's Swamp in Prince George County from 1797 – 1812 and his estate was noted in 1813 and 1814.
Details for Nathaniel Tatum (~1700 – 1763+) + Emelia Scott + Sarah Heath
1724 June 1 – Prince George County, Virginia: Will Abstract of John Scott naming Emelia Scott Tatum and others - to daughter Bridget Tatum 145 acres on Fountain Creek (married Christopher Tatum "I"), to Emilia Tatum 290 acres on Assamoosock Swamp, to daughter Bethyer Borrow, to daughter Boyce Gee, grandson Thomas Scott his mill and ten acres of land whereon it stands and son-in-law James Gee to see to his schooling; To grandson John Scott 348 acres of land I now live on; to daughter Elizabeth Chappell, to loving wife Bethyer Scott. Dated 1 June 1724 and proved 9 June 1724.
(Courtesy of Gary Tharp, email of 29 September 2007)
1725 - Bristol Parish Register: Robert Tatum, son of Nathaniel and Emelia Tatam, was born 30 January 1725.
1727 June 13 - Prince George County: Nathaniel Tatum, Senr. of Bristol Parish, Prince George County, to his son Nathaniel Tatum of same, land on south side of Josephs Swamp, beginning...a corner between the said Nathaniel Tatum and Christopher Tatum, thence along the said line...to the lower end of the dividing line, thence along the said Nathaniel Tatum's own out line to a corner Hickory between Nathaniel Tatum, Junr., and his brother Samuel Tatum, thence along their dividing line to the head of a small branch, which is a division between the said brothers, thence down the said branch to the main Joseph's Swamp, thence down the said swamp to the beginning...220 acres. Witnesses: John Bonner, Jr. William Hamelton. Signed: Nathaniel (x) Tatum. Written and presented at a court 13 June 1727. (Prince George County deeds 1713-1728, page 1005)
1732 September 28 - Surry County: Land Grant to Nathaniel Tatum of Prince George County, 50 acres on the south side of the Atsamoosock Swamp in Surry County, beginning and extending by the said of said swamp just below the bridge (to) a corner of William Hine's land.
(Library of Virginia on line grants)
1733 June 20 - Prince George County: Land Grant to Nathaniel Tatum, Jr., of 327 acres on the south side of Josephs Swamp; beginning William Cottons corner on Fountain Branch...to Lewis Green's line, to corner __, to fork of Thornton's Branch, to Davis's line.
(Library of Virginia Land Office Grants on-line; Also Cavaliers and Pioneers, Volume 4 & 5 Virginia Genealogical Society, 1994)
1737 July 10 – Surry County, Virginia: Indenture from Nathaniel Tatum of Prince George County and Emelia his wife, to James Chappel or Surry County, for 52 pounds money...the said Nathaniel Tatum and Emelia his wife here unto moving they the said Nathaniel Tatum and Emelia his wife deed two tracts or parcels of land being on the Assmoosock Swamp in Surry County: (1st tract) containing 190 acres between Philip Ludwell, and the land of Sarah Epps, wife of Francis Epps, upon the said swamp was devised by the last will and testament of John Scott, late of the county of Prince George, deceased to the said Emelia by will, (2nd tract) parcel of land containing 50 acres lying on the south side of said Swamp in Surry County, bounded by the side at said swamp just below the bridge to a corner of William Hines land...to a line tree of the said Tatum's other land...to side of swamp...granted to said Nathaniel Tatum by letters of patent dated 28 September 1732. Witnesses: Thomas Eldridge, Jr., Nathaniel Briggs. Signed: Nathaniel (x) Tatum, Emelia Tatum. Acknowledged 20 July 1738 Court. (DB 8/708-710)
1738 June 14 - Prince George County Court: Assault and battery case of Owen Gilmore against Charles Hix for "beating, wounding, and evilly treating him." Jury impaneled included Nathaniel Tatum. Also same date, court case of Edmond Irby, Jr. versus Peter Leath for saying Edmond was a thief and had picked his pocket of half a pistole. Case dismissed. Jury impaneled included Nathaniel Tatum.
(Prince George County, Virginia Records 1733-1792, by Benjamin B. Weisiger III, 1975, page 135)
1738 July 11 - July 1738 Prince George County Court held at Fitzgerralds: Peter, a Negro boy belonging to Nathaniel Tatum is adjudged to be seven years old.
(Prince George County, Virginia Records 1733-1792, by Benjamin B. Weisiger III, 1975, page 11)
1739 June 14 and October 17 - Prince George County: Chosen for jury duty – Nathaniel Tatum.
(Prince George County, Virginia Records, Benjamin B. Weisiger III, 1975)
Few Prince George County records survived after this date until 1789.
1739 February - Albemarle Parish Baptism – Surry County: Amelia, daughter of John and Bathia Houseman with sponsors being James Brown, Amelia Tatum, Elenor Doby.
Albemarle Parish Register: Birth, Deaths and Sponsors 1717 – 1778, Surry and Sussex Counties, Virginia, by John Bennett Boddie, 1958/1998
1757+ Transition to Sussex County
Nathaniel Tatum married between March and October 1758 to Sarah Heath Tatum, widow of Peter Tatum (~1710) No children are known by this 2nd marriage since they were probably too old. Sarah Health had previously married to Peter Tatum (~1710 to 1751), who was the son of Edward Tatum (1670/80 to 1739) and wife Rebecca. Peter and Sarah Tatum had 3 daughters and two sons named Thomas Tatum and Edward Tatum (1741). The grandfather Edward Tatum (~1670/80) did have a son named Nathaniel Tatum, but he (in this writer's opinion) migrated to Edgecombe County, North Carolina by 1742 and died there in 1751.
Sarah Tatum's children by her 1st marriage were young enough, that "Thomas and Edward came under the guardianship of Henry Tatum. Sarah married 2nd to Nathaniel Tatum by October 1758 when they deeded 116 acres Peter left Sarah to her sons."*
* Southside Virginia Genealogies, by John W. Pritchett, Genealogical Publishing Co., Inc on CD, page 1593.
Our subject, Nathaniel Tatum (~1700 – 1763+) was not in any Albemarle (Surry-Sussex County) Procession until 1757. He then had two Albemarle Parish Procession records on August 1757 and March 1764 with his land being between (north side of) Joseph's Swamp, the county line, and Blackwater. The March 1764 Procession stated "Natha. Tatum's Land," suggesting he wasn’t living there.
1757 April - Sussex County Court: Ordered that Daniel Epes paid unto William Epes, Gentleman, a witness for him against Nathaniel Tatum 64 pounds of tobacco for 1 days attendance at this court and for coming thirteen miles and returning. Also on same date, Sussex County Court ordered that Thomas Epes pay unto Henry Tatum, William Shands, and Sarah Tatum 25 pounds of tobacco for one day attendance at this court as a witness for him Thomas Epes at the suit of Thomas Young.
(Sussex County, Virginia Court Records 1757-1759, Book II, Weynette Parks Haun, 1997, page 68.)
1758 February - Sussex County Court: Thomas and Edward Tatum, Orphans of Peter Tatum personally appeared in Court and chose Henry Tatum for their Guardian whereupon he with John Tatum and Nathaniel Mitchell his securities entered into and acknowledged their Boon for his due performance of that trust.
(Sussex County, Virginia Court Records 1757-1759, by Weynette Parks Haun, page 102, Book Two)
Colonial law made the Tatum children "orphans" even though their mother was still alive. This also suggests that Nathaniel Tatum married Sarah after the February 1758 court date.
1758 April 21 - Sussex County: John Worsdon to Joshua Hines for 60 pounds...375 acres with the land bounded by Francis Epes, William Hines, William Edmunds and Nathaniel Tatum.
(Sussex County Deed Books A-E – 1754-1779, by William Lindsay Holmes, 1990, page 26)
(consider) 1758 October 24 – Northampton County, North Carolina: John Ogburn of Sussex County, Virginia deeded to Nathaniel Tatum of Sussex County, Virginia, for 70 pounds, 150 acres on south side of Maherin River, joining Maherin Creek, Moses Moores, a branch, and Henry Hill. Witnesses: Thomas Tatum, Edward Tatum, Sarah Tatum, Eppes Tatum. January Court 1759. (DB 2/527)
Deed Abstracts of Northampton County, North Carolina 1741-1759, by Margaret M. Hofmann, Deed Books 1 and 2.
Names of witnesses us give clues to selecting which Nathaniel Tatum. A reasonable possibility is our subject Nathaniel Tatum “II” who (~1700 to ~1763), son of Nathaniel Tatum “I” (~1670 to 1738+). Nathaniel Tatum “II” married 1st to Emelia Scott and 2nd in 1758 to Sarah Heath Tatum who was the widow of Peter Tatum (~1710 to 1751 + will), son of Edward Tatum (1670/80 to 1739).
Using the deed witness names, Thomas and Edward Tatum would be the step-children of Nathaniel Tatum “II.” Sarah Tatum in the deed could be Sarah Heath Tatum, the 2nd wife of Nathaniel Tatum. Eppes Tatum would be a closely related nephew of Nathaniel Tatum “II.”
1758 October 27 - Sussex County: Indenture from Nathaniel Tatum of Sussex County and Sarah his wife deeded to Thomas and Edward Tatum of the same county of the same county, sons of the said Sarah Tatum...for consideration of the natural love and affection which they the said Nathaniel Tatum and Sarah his wife...tract or parcel of land lying in Sussex County on the north side of Josephs Swamp whereon the said Nathaniel Tatum now lives containing 116 acres which Peter Tatum, deceased by his will...and said Peter Tatum deceased that his widow, now wife to the said Nathaniel Tatum. Signed: Nathaniel Tatum, Sarah Tatum. Entered 17 November 1758. (DB A/339)
1759 August 6 and 1764 March 11 - Albemarle Parish: David Jones and William Cook Procession the same lands as they were assigned in 1755, bounded as Cooks Bridge along Cooks Road to Joseph Swamp thence up the said Swamp to Prince George County Line and by that Line to Black Swamp thence to the beginning: (included) Nathaniel Tatum...(in 1764, it was Nathaniel Tatum's land.). In 14 March 1768, there is no Nathaniel Tatum, but there is Thomas Tatum's land which was recorded by David Jones and W. Eldridge, Procession Masters.
(Albemarle Parish Vestry Records)
1761 - Sussex County, Virginia: Thomas Tatum apprenticed himself to the trade of a tailor.
1763 October 20 - Sussex County: Inventory and appraisement of the estate of Ephram Parham, deceased in Brunswick County. Appraisers were Nathaniel Tatum, Robert Hicks, Edward "x" Robertson. Recorded 20 October 1763.
(Sussex County Will Book A, 1754-1764, by T.L.C. Genealogy, 1991, page 88)
What Happened to Nathaniel Tatum (~1700 – 1763+) + Sarah Health?
1782 – Prince George County, Virginia Tax Payers: Sarah Tatum
(Virginia Tax Payers 1782-1787, by Augusta B. Forthergill and John Mark Naugle, 1940. )
This may be our Sarah Tatum. There is nothing more.
Children of Nathaniel Tatum (~1700 – 1763+) and his 1st wife - Emelia Scott:
They had one known child - Robert Tatum (1725 – 1759)
(a). Robert Tatum (30 January 1725 - 1759) married Keziah Dobie (died ~1795). Keziah, daughter of Robert Dobie, who remembered his daughter Keziah in his 1760 will in Sussex County. Keziah married 2nd to Edward Walker. Robert's will named 4 children (will dated 14 January 1759 and proved 9 October 1759.^ In 1785 Robert Tatum, wife Amy, and mother Keziah Walker, of Prince George County sold 30 acres in Sussex County.^ ** Robert Doby lived on the Sussex County side of Joseph's Swamp near the county line with Prince George.
(^) Southside Virginia Genealogies, page 1593)
(** "Descendants of Cheney Boyce, "Ancient Planter," and of Richard Craven," by John Anderson Bayson, 1996, page 26-27)
1744 - Albemarle Parish Register (Surry County): Joshuah Dobey was born 21 January 1744, son of John and Mary Dobey. God Parents were Peter Vincent, Robert Tatum, Jane Underwood.
1745 – Albemarle Parish Register: Nathaniel Tatum, son of Robert and Keziah Tatum, born 30 March 1745 and Baptized 2 May 1745 (Bristol Parish Register)
1752 March 4 - Albemarle Parish: Pursuant to an Order of the Vestry, wee the subscribers have Processioned...John Hawthorns, the Colledge line & the line dividing this county and Prince George and between Joseph Swamp and Jones Hole...(and included) the line between Robert Doby and Robert Tatum, line between Robert Tatum and Joshua Tatum, and the line between John Tatum and Robert Tatum. This took place in the presence of (included) John Tatum, Christopher Tatum, Drury Tatum, Robert Tatum, Henry Tatum. Signed: Henry Mitchell and Joshua Tatum, Procession Masters.
1753 January - Surry County Court: Ordered that Charles Gee pay unto Robert Tatum a witness for him against John Jesse and Joseph Goodwyne 380 pounds of nett Tobacco for 8 days attendance at this Court and for coming five time twelve miles and returning according to law.
(Surry County, Virginia Court Records, 1752-1753," Book XI, by Waynette Parks Haun, page 106)
1759 January 14 - Prince George County: Will of Robert Tatum of Prince George County. To wife Cozier, to son Nathaniel, to son Robert, to daughter Betty Tatum, to son David Tatum, neighbor John Tatum and Thomas Going, Jr, both of the county of Sussex to be executors. Dated 14 January 1759. Witnesses: Thomas Young, William Evans, Sarah Evans. Recorded: 9 October 1759.
(Prince George County, Virginia Records 1733-1792 by Benjamin B. Weisiger III, 1975, page 73, original page 118)
1759 August 11 - Prince George County: Inventory of the Estate of Robert Tatum, deceased. John Tatum, Executor.
(Abstract of Prince George (Record) Book, Family Archive Viewer, CD174 Virginia Vital Records #1, 1600-1800s, by Genealogy.com)
1762 - Albemarle Parish Register: Elizabeth Pare, born 3 November 1762 daughter of John and Susanna Pare. God Parents were Joseph Dobie, Kesiah Tatum, Anne Gilliam.
In the will, Keziah is misread as Cozier. Bayson states Keziah remarried to Edward Walker between 1759 and 1767, and was living as late as 1795 in Prince George County.** Note the will was recorded in Prince George County and not Sussex County.
(** "Descendants of Cheney Boyce, "Ancient Planter," and of Richard Craven," by John Anderson Bayson, 1996)
1760 January 15 – Sussex County: Robert Doby Will - To sons John Doby, Robert Doby, Nathaniel Doby to daughters Elinor Doby, Elizabeth Doby and Francis Doby, Kezia Tatum. Executors: sons John Doby, Nathaniel Doby, Robert Doby. Witnesses: Augustine Claiborne, Thomas Young, Nathaniel Tomlinson, and Banks Macham. Administered: 15 February 1760. (Sussex Will Book A, page 155)
Children of Robert Tatum "I" (1725 – 1759)and Keziah Dobie
Children noted as (aa) through (dd)
(aa). Nathaniel Tatum (30 March 1745 Prince George County) paid tax on 200 acres in Prince George County until 1785.^ He was a resident of Prince George County until 1785 when he sold 200 acres.* ^ The earliest Prince George County Land tax to survive notes a Nathaniel Tatum with 200 acres for 1782 through 1784 with the last entry noting that he had purchased the land from a Samuel Jones.
^ "Southside Virginia Genealogies," by John W. Pritchett, Genealogical Publishing County, Inc. 2006, on CD
* "Tidewater Virginia Families": Generations Beyond, by Virginia Lee Hutcheson Davis, 1998
1769 March 10 - Sussex County: Augustine Claiborne, Esquire and wife Mary Claiborne deeded to Thomas Peebles planter for 310 pounds...400 acres on the east side of Josephs Swamp being the land bought from Thomas Young, Nathaniel Harrison and John Shands and is bounded to Thomas Tatum, Nathaniel Tatum, William Heath, the late Adam Heath, William Eldridge, the public road leading to Cabin Point, Shands Bridge and Shands Branch. Land was the mansion plantation of the Thomas Young and of Nathaniel Harrison called "the School House Tract." (Signed). Augustine Claiborne and Mary Claiborne.
Sussex County Deed Book D from Sussex County, Virginia Deed Books A-e – 1754 – March 1779, by William Lindsay Holmes, 1990, page 111
Possibly, the following belongs to this Nathaniel Tatum: Prince George County Land Tax Lists: Nathaniel Tatum 200 acres for 1782, 1783, 1785 – land had been purchased from Samuel Jones.
(bb). Robert Tatum, "II" (~1750 – 1810/12?) married in Sussex County on 30 January 1773 (bond) to Amy Gee, daughter of Charles Gee III of Sussex County.
Marriages of Some Virginia Residents 1607-1800, by Dorothy Ford Wulfeck, Volume II, Surnames I-Z
1774 February 17 - Sussex County: Frederick Young deeded to Joshua Ivie for 90 pounds....113 acres on the west side of Joseph's Swamp and bounded by Henry Tatum and Robert Tatum near the Race Path.
Sussex County Deed Books 1754-1779, by William Lindsay Hopkins, page 159, 1990, Deed Book "E"
1782 September 18 - 1782 Sussex County: Joshua Ivey of Prince George County sold to Richard Russell of Brunswick County 18 September 1782 for 100 pounds...113 acres joining Henry Tatum, Robert Tatum, the race paths, Joseph Swamp, the old road. The deed was also signed by his wife Elizabeth Ivey. Witnesses: Peter Williams, Rebekah Williams, Lucretia Riece. 17 April 1783.
Deeds of Sussex County, Virginia 1779-1792 by Dr. Stephen E. Bradley, Jr. 1993, page 15
1785 May 18 - Sussex County, Virginia: Robert Tatum and his wife Amey, of Prince George County sold to Keziah Walker, mother of said Robert Tatum, of the second part to John Cocke, Clerk of Sussex County of third part...18 May 1785...30 acres where said Robert now resides at the lower end of Joseph's Swamp. Witnesses: John H. Claiborne, Thomas Claiborne, Jr., Francis Smith, William Smith, John Hawthorn. Recorded: 16 June 1785.
Deeds of Sussex County, Virginia 1779-1792 by Dr. Stephan E. Bradley, Jr. 1993, page 307, original 401) and Prince George County, Virginia Records 1733-1792 by Benjamin B. Weisiger III, 1975, page 73, original page 118
There is a Robert Tatum recorded in Prince George County with 220 acres from 1797 to 1812 on Josephs Swamp, purchased from Thomas Lewis. During the years 1813 and 1814, his land is noted as Robert Tatum estate. Later, in 1815, Peter Tatum Jr. had this very same land conveyed to him, owned first by Thomas Lewis and later conveyed to him by the Robert Tatum estate. In 1810, Amey Tatum, his wife would be approximately age 57. The 1810 U.S. Census of Prince George County shows no Robert Tatum, but there is a family of Amie Tatum with 1 male 16-26 or birth year between 1784-1794, 1 female 26-45 or birth year between 1765-1784, 1 female 45+ which is possibly Amey Tatum. In addition, on the 1810 Census, three places away from Amie Tatum is a Charles Tatum with 1 male 26-45 and one female 16-26. On the 1820 U.S. Census, Charles G. Tatum + wife now have 1 female 0-10.
Prince George County Land Tax Lists 1782 – 1825, on microfilm from Family History Libraries
(cc). David Tatum was reported to have died when young. There is a record of a 1779 Prince George County renter by the name of David Tatum. Could this be the same person?
(dd). Elizabeth "Betty" Tatum
(3). Samuel Tatum (estimated born circa ~1692) and wife Elizabeth: This Samuel Tatum descended from 1 - Nathaniel Tatum (~1599/1605), 2- Samuel Tatum (~1635/45), 3 – Nathaniel Tatum (~1670).
Details can be found in the chapter on Samuel Tatum (~1690's), son of Nathaniel Tatum (~1770).
Other Tatums in Tax Records from 1782+
1782 - Prince George County: Tax records begin in 1782 and have the following names for 1782: Eppes Tatum, Rebecca Tatum, Robert Tatum, Sarah Tatum.
1782 - Prince George County: Tax returns, a different list; Henry Tatum's estate 415 acres, Nathaniel Tatum 200 acres, Epes Tatum 315 acres.
1804 – Prince George County: There looks like an isolated 1804 Prince George census incorporated in the land tax records which names Peter Tatum, Joel C. Tatum, David Tatum, Richard Tatum, Drury Tatum and John Tatum. Drury Tatum had a June 1810 estate inventory in Sussex County.
1810 U.S. Census of Prince George County names: Littlebury E. Tatum, Peter Tatum, Annie Tatum, Epes Tatum, Richard Tatum, and Betsey Tatum.
1820 U.S. Census for Prince George and Sussex Counties: Eppes Tatum, Peter Tatum Jr, James G. Tatum, Martha Tatum, John Tatum, Silvey Tatum, Peter Tatum, Sr., Charles G. Tatum.
Sussex County tax records begin in 1782 and have the following names: Lucy Tatum with 254 acres from 1782 – 1788; Susannah Tatum with the same 254 acres in 1789 to 1800+; Littlebury E. Tatum with 185 acres from 1794 – 1797. Later years were not reviewed. The following wills of interest were recorded in Sussex County: Thomas Tatum in February 1783; Susanna Tatum in March 1819; James G. Tatum in January 1853.
Resources for Tatums in Colonial Virginia
"Southside Virginia Genealogies," by John W. Pritchett, Genealogical Publishing County, Inc. 2006, on CD.
"Tidewater Virginia Families": Generations Beyond, by Virginia Lee Hutcheson Davis, 1998
"Marriages of Some Virginia Residents 1607-1800," by Dorothy Ford Wulfeck, Volume II, Surnames I-Z.
"Descendants of Cheney Boyce, 'Ancient Planter,' and of Richard Craven," by John Anderson Bayson, 1996
"Adventurers of Purse and Person – Virginia 1607-1624/5," Fourth Edition, by John Frederick Dorman, Volume 3, Tatum