John Willcockson (Wilcoxson) 1720 - 1798

 

New For 2009 and 2010

 

Margy Miles disputes Sarah Boone’s Burial Site

Found: 1747 Land Warrant in Pennsylvania

 

New For 2011 & 2012

Major Revisions to the Children of John Wilcoxson

New Info: Daniel Wilcoxson

Later Years of Ruth Wilcoxson (Wilcox), wife of Isaac Wilcoxson

William Wilcoxson in Berk’s County, Pennsylvania

George Wilcoxson (Son of John), a Weaver, Mill & Tavern Owner

George Wilcoxson found in “State of Franklin” (E. Tennessee)

Pension Abstract for Daniel Wilcoxson

Woodford County, Kentucky Deeds for Daniel Wilcoxson

Family Records from Jeremiah Willcockson – See Part Three

 

August 2012: Isaac Willcockson (~1777-1835) & Daniel B. Willcockson (~1815 – 1852)

Info from Janet Willcoxon de la Pena

 

John Wilcoxson (John Willcockson)

 

Birth estimated about 1720, probably at Chester County, Pennsylvania if parents are correct; exact dates found elsewhere may have no basis.

Married before 29 May 1742 when Exeter Meeting House noted “Sarah Boone married out of unity with friends.”

Died 26 February 1798 in North Carolina; source - Daughters of American Revolution.  1798 is also his last year of record. 

Will or estate administration: None found 

            Parents: likely George Wilcockson and Elizabeth Powell

Note: Do not confuse with John Willcox (1728 – 1793) of Chester County, Pennsylvania; Cumberland (1765+), Guilford (1770+) & Chatham Counties, North Carolina.  His thing – North Carolina iron works which provided much needed NC iron products; frequently mentioned in State of NC Assembly.

 

Sarah (Sally) Boone

Born 7 June 1724 in Pennsylvania, source not identified.  Middle name reported "Cassandra" but proof lacking.

Died 1815 possibly in Madison County, Kentucky.  See discussion of final years.

Will or estate administration: None found.

            Parents: Squire Boone “I” (1696 – 1765) and Sarah Morgan (1700 – 1777)

Note: Easily confused with Sarah “Sally” Boone (1770 to ?), who is a daughter of Squire Boone “II” + wife Jane VanCleve.   This Sally Boone was the wife of John Wilcox (1766 to 1819) - son of George Wilcockson (1729/30 to 1786).

           

               2nd Edition, Morphew/Murphy Story – J.R. Murphy, previous revision 19 April 2012, this revision 24 July 2012   

 

This Chapter Includes:

 

Part One: Comments and Other Immigrants

Part Two: John Wilcockson (1720-1798) and Sarah Boone (1724-1815)

Part Three: Children of John Wilcockson

            I.     George Willcockson

II.    Elizabeth Wilcoxson Cutbirth

III.   John Wilcoxson "II"         

            IV.  Nancy Wilcoxson Greer

            V.    Isaac Wilcoxson

            VI.  Sarah Wilcoxson Hagans

            VII.  Israel Wilcoxson

            VIII. Lt. Daniel Wilcoxson

            IX.   Samuel Wilcoxson

            X.    Mary Wilcoxson Walker

            XI.   Rachel Wilcoxson Bryant

            XII.  William Wilcoxson

            XIII. Question of David Wilcoxson/Wilcox - see his separate chapter. 

Part Four: An Old Historical Wilcoxson Letter

Part Five: Who is 1806 – 1809 John Willcoxen in Greenup County, Kentucky?

 

Part One:

Comments

 

            Confusion exists on children of John Wilcockson who married Sarah Boone.   This is the time to review these Wilcocksons and see if their accuracy can be improved.    Readers are invited to present their opinions and arguments.   Surname spelling in documents will be retained whenever possible.   Earliest Kentucky needs more investigation and documentation for Wilcoxson/Willcockson/Wilcox presence.    

 

            How is the surname really spelled in those years?   Several lines did permanently change Wilcoxson to Wilcox.   Those who continued with Wilcoxson (or similar spellings) had records spelled just about every way.    Literacy back then was so marginal that individuals and scribes were often "loose" and uncaring about actual spellings.    “Wilcoxson” or “Wilcockson” will be used here in a generic fashion.   

 

Other Immigrants in Maryland and New England

 

            There are more than one Wilcoxson immigrants to colonial American.  Successful lines come out of colonial Maryland (John Wilcoxon^, born ca1675) and New England (William Wilcockson – born 1602^^).   Since these people used very similar first names, care is needed to keep them separate from our lines.    Also, unassociated Wilcox families must be identified and kept separate.

^ This writer is not aware of any book published about the Maryland Wilcoxon/Wilcoxen/Wilcoxsons.  They are frequently found in Maryland Probate Records, 1674-1774, CD #206 by Family Line Publications.

^^ Wilcox/Wilcoxson Families of New England and Their Descendants on CD1961 by Heritage Books, Inc, 2001

 

Part Two:

John Wilcockson and Sarah Boone

 

Marriage of Sarah (Boone) Wilcockson

Movement Away from Pennsylvania

 

Sarah Boone, daughter of Squire Boone, was a Pennsylvania Quaker, and married outside her church to John Willcockson.  They migrated to North Carolina between 1750 – 1758 and settled near Sarah’s father, Squire Boone.   Later they moved to Kentucky and then returned to North Carolina. 

 

 

1747 Pennsylvania Land Warrant for John Wilcoxon

- New Finding for 2010 -

 

            Two adjacent tracts of land in the Robeson Township, Berks County were resurveyed for (1) David Hartz et al in 1873 and (2) Aaron Freese in March 1867.  Both stated these were part of large tract of 187 acres originally surveyed in pursuance of a warrant grant to "John Wilcoxen," dated 18th day of November 1747.*   

 

            John Wilcoxon's warrant stated: "In pursuance of a warrant dated the 18th day of November 1747, resurveyed the 19th day of November 1798 unto John Wilcoxon, the above  described tract of land situate in Robeson township formerly in Lancaster, now in Berks County containing 187 acres, with allowance of six percent for roads.  To Danl Brodhead Esqu, surveyor Gent. of Pennsylvania.  Signed: Geo Eckert, Junr, __ Sur."**

 

            Above described tract shows it being adjacent to Wm Witman & Church Land – now vacant, Peter Behm, and George Seiphert, presumably described for 1798.** 

                       

*  (Pennsylvania State Archives, online surveys D-4, page 64, and D19, page 210)

            ** (Pennsylvania State Archives, online land warrants, file A65, page 61)  

                       

 

John Wilcoxson in North Carolina

Early Rowan County Records

 

1759 Rowan County Tax List:  "John Wilcockson" is his first entry in North Carolina.

Rowan County, North Carolina Tax Lists 1757-1800 by Jo. White Lynn, 1995  

 

1761 Rowan County Tax – list of Caleb Osborn - that part Davie County: "John Wilcockson and son George."

 

1762 September - Rowan County: John Willcox was a Constable.

From M.A. Payne: contents of a manila envelop labeled “Wilcoxson.”  At top of paper “J.F. McCubbens, Clerk Superior Court, Rowan County, Salisbury, N.C.”

 

1765 January 9 - Rowan County Court: Ordered appointment of overseers for a road, which included John Willcox to cover the road from the South Yadkin to Israel Boon’s old place.  Later in 9 May 1765, John Willcockson witnessed a deed by David Jones to Edmond Dedman in Rowan County.   “John Willcox is recorded as a Constable in 1765 from South Yadkin to Israel Boon’s Old Place.  Israel Boon had petitioned to keep a Public House on July 1764 and listed Squire Boon and James Carter as securities. 

 

1768 Rowan County Tax – list of Morgan Bryan - that part Davie County: "John Wilcockson" together with "David Wilcocks" – 2 polls

 

1768/69 Rowan County Court: Samuel Hall versus George Willcocks (weaver), with John Willcocks as security.

From M.A. Payne: contents of a manila envelop labeled “Wilcoxson.”  At top of paper “J.F. McCubbens, Clerk Superior Court, Rowan County, Salisbury, N.C.”

 

1772 March - Rowan County Court.  Ordered that John Luckey, Robert Johnson, Samuel Luckey, William and James and Morgan Bryan, John Wilcocks, James Brown, Theops Morgan, Thomas and Will Willson and Luke Lee to lay off a road from the road leading from Salisbury to the shoals of the Yadkin River.  Then they were to do the same between Second and Third Creek with this road running towards Renshaw’s Ford on the South River, then along the dividing ridge between Rocky and Hunting Creek, until it intersected Hunting Creek, and from the head of the creek to the next ford above Widow Backis on the main Yadkin River, known as Samuel Bryant’s Bottom.

 

1776 Rowan County Tax – Capt. Lyons district: "John Willcoxon" next to "John Willcoxon, Jun."

Rowan County, North Carolina Tax Lists 1757-1800 by Jo. White Lynn, 1995 

 

Rowan County Warnings

 

John Wilcockson and some of his sons may have left Rowan County on or before 1778, as the following notices were made:

 

1778 List of Rowan County men whose property faced confiscation (records do not show is property actually taken:  George Wilcockson, John Wilcockson

 

1778 Register of persons in Captain Johnston's District who neglected or refused to appear before the justice of their respective districts and take oath of affirmation of allegiance to the State:  David Wilcoxson, Isaac Wilcoxson

Rowan County, North Carolina Tax Lists 1757-1800 by Jo. White Lynn, 1995

Wilcockson Beginnings in Early Kentucky

 

John Wilcoxson moved to Kentucky, possibly between 1778 and 1782 and was thought to be near Fort Boonesborough or some other location.   Tudor names early settlers of Fort Boonesborough to include “John Wilcoxson” and “Sally (Sarah) Boone Wilcox,^ (who was) a “sister of Daniel Boone; (and had) married John Wilcoxen.”    Tudor’s source for John Wilcoxson is (1) “The Boone Family,” by Hazel Atterbury Spraker, 1923 and (2) French Tipton Papers for Sally Boone Wilcox.  Tipton’s reference was not found during this writers April 2011 trip to Eastern Kentucky University.    Tudor also lists a different Sarah Boone, daughter of Squire and Jane Boone being at Boonesborough.   This Sarah Boone married John Wilcox (1766-1819, son of George Wilcockson “II”) who is found in Jefferson–Shelby Counties, Kentucky beginning in 1790 or 1791.  Hence in 1790/91, her name became Sarah Boone Wilcox. **

^ “Early Settlers of Fort Boonesborough,” by H. Thomas Tudor, 1975/1995.

^^ French Tipton Papers at Eastern Kentucky University (EKU) Special Collections, Archives Room, Volume 5. Topic _ -Persons at Boonesborough.

** See John Wilcox workup in the George Wilcockson chapter

 

Future research needs to clarify these details.  An entry (below) by the DAR (Daughters of the American Revolution) states John Wilcoxson was a soldier of Virginia, which must mean Kentucky County, Virginia.   What do they mean by “soldier?”  Do they know something we have not found yet?

 

 

From Daughters of the American Revolution in their Centennial Edition, Part III

 

John Wilcoxson, Senior: born about 1720 in Pennsylvania and died 26 February 1798 in North Carolina.  Married Sarah Boone.  Soldier Virginia.

 

Sarah (Boone) Wilcoxson: Born 7 June 1724 in Pennsylvania and died 1815 Kentucky.  Married John Wilcoxson.  Patriotic service, Virginia.  

 

 

There is a large monument at Fort Boonesborough, with the names of the settlers on it.  Both John Wilcoxson and his wife, Sarah, are engraved on this monument, which is most impressive.  

 

Earliest Known Record for Wilcoxson Children in Kentucky

 

1775 and again in 1785:***   Samuel Wilcoxson returned to North Carolina to marry and lived there. 

1775 - William Bryant was at/near Fort Boonesborough in 1775^ and possibly later at Bryans Station. ^+    He later married Rachel Wilcoxson. 

~1775 - David Wilcoxson. **

1777 - Daniel Wilcoxson had land north of Bryans (Bryants) Station.**    According to his Revolutionary War Pension Application, he was stationed as a soldier at Fort Boonesborough in late 1778/early 1779 to July 1779 and at Bryan (Bryants) Station July 1779 to fall of 1783.

1779 (April) - Israel Wilcoxson was north of Bryans Station and died there ~1781. **

1789 - Ruth Wilcoxson, widow of Isaac Wilcoxson. **   

1790 - Elizabeth Wilcoxson Cutbirth. **

^   ("Early Settlers of Fort Boonesborough" by H. Thomas Tudor, 1995)

^^ (Dates documented in the "Certificate Book of the Virginia Land ^^ Commission 1779-1780" by the Kentucky Historical Society, 1992)

^^^ (from 1779 Fayette County, Kentucky tax record).

^+ (Bryan Station - Heroes and Heroines by Virginia Webb Howard, 1932)

++ (French Tipton Papers, Volume 5, EKU Special Collection Archives)

** see their individual write-ups for details.

*** Wilcoxson and Allied Families, Dorothy Ford Wulfeck, 1958.

 

            This is an impressive list for such an early date in Kentucky (statehood in 1792)!

   

Fort Boonesborough in 1778

 

In September 1778 at Fort Boonesborough, 440 Indians and 12 French-Canadians surrounded the fort and demanded surrender while displaying British and French flags.  The Indians were headed by the Shawnee Chief Blackfish; Lieutenant-Governor Hamilton who sent them out to demand surrender of the Kentuckians and bring them back to Detroit as subjects of the King.  The fort only had about 60 men and boys to defend it, and yet the settlers voted to fight, instead of surrender.  For two days, Daniel Boone pretended to negotiate a treaty while the settlers slipped in food, cattle, hogs, horses and supplies into the fort.  Finally, after the Indians attempted to grab the Kentuckians at the negotiations, the battle for Fort Boonesborough began.  They attempted to torch the fort, pretended they had left the area, and began several tunnels from the riverbank into the fort.  So desperate were the settlers that Daniel fashioned two wooden canons out of logs.  One cannon managed to get off one shot before it burst. Little food was left after a week of fighting.  Then a heavy rain developed one night, and when it ceased, the sound of digging in the tunnel could no longer be heard.  The heavy rain caved-in the tunnels and caused the Shawnee Indians to quit the 9 to 11 day siege.    The following morning, the people from Fort Boonesborough came out and searched the woods for Indians, but they had gone.

        

Wilcoxsons at or near Fort Boonesborough  

 

John Wilcockson was possibly living with one of his sons at/near Fort Boonesborough or north of Bryan’s Station sometime between the years 1778 to 1786.  He does disappear for a while from Rowan County, North Carolina tax records after 1776.  Tudor lists the following Wilcocksons at Fort Boonesborough:

 

William “Billy” Wilcox (son of Daniel Wilcox) 

Daniel Wilcoxon, Sr.

Elizabeth Wilcockson, who married Benjamin Cutbirth.

John Wilcoxen

Sally (Sarah) Boone Wilcoxen

Rachel Wilcoxon, who married William Bryant.

(From “Early Settlers of Fort Boonesborough,” by H. Thomas Tudor, 1995.  Do note Billy Wilcox entry is puzzling)

 

Wilcoxsons and Bryan Station

 

            Bryan Station is another settlement that some Wilcoxsons – Daniel Wilcoxson, Sr. and Israel Wilcoxson lived at or nearby.  The station was about 5 miles northeast of present-day Lexington, Kentucky, on the southern bank of the North Fork of Elkhorn.  The Bryans settled at the Station in 1779, but a cabin had been built by Joseph Bryan, a son-in-law of Daniel Boone, in 1776.  The history of Bryan Station included a number of Indian attacks.  In one of the worst attacks in 1782, the women of the Station prevented its fiery destruction by carrying badly needed buckets of water from the spring to the station while surrounded by Indians.  A memorial exists for their efforts.  Men at the Station included Daniel Wilcoxen, son of John Sr.   Daniel Wilcoxen was noted in Lieutenant in Holder’s Company on 10 June 1779.   As a soldier in July 1779, Daniel Wilcoxson transferred from Fort Boonesborough to Bryan Station and remained there until the fall of 1783.      

 

There is confusion on the name of Bryan’s Station.  In 1779 and 1780, eight Bryans made 13,000 acres of land entries near the Station.  Joseph, William, John, and James Bryant entered an additional 6,000 acres.  William Bryant who married Rachel Wilcoxson belongs to a different line.  The names Bryan, Bryan’s, Bryants, and Bryant Station, were used at different times by Daniel Boone.

Bryan Station Heroes and Heroines, Virginia Webb Howard, 1932, pg 1

 

Wilcocksons Move Back to North Carolina, when?

 

            John is said to return to North Carolina by 1783, but doesn't re-appear on Rowan County tax lists until 1787.  He lived there until 1798 or beyond.  John Wilcoxson missed being on the tax list for 1778 and 1784, but his omission may be due to poor record keeping.

 

 

Deeds and Warrants of John Wilcockson

 

            1779 October 9 – NC Warrant #2328.  John Wilcockson has a land entry request for 640 acres on Bear Creek, including his improvement and the old survey run by James Carter.  (Also, this is recorded in Rowan County Deed Book 9, page 474)   

 

            Comment: This appears to be a reaffirmation of land that he already owned.  His earlier grant or deed has not been identified yet.  On 12 October 1759, Squire Boone and wife Sarah deeded to Daniel Boone, son of said Squire Boone, 640 acres on Bear Creek.   On 21 February 1764, Daniel Boone and wife Rebeckah sold this land to Vancleave.

 

            1780 January 9 - North Carolina Entry for Warrant #2295.  John Wilcockson is granted 640 acres on both sides of Bear Creek, in Rowan County, adjacent Benley’s corner and Thomas Mansfield’s (Maxwell's) corner.  North Carolina Grant #959, surveyed 22 February 1783, and signed John Wilcockson (signed with a “J”).

 

            10 October 1783, State of North Carolina Grant #342 to John Wilcockson, 640 acres on both sides of Bear Creek, adjacent Bentley and Thomas Maxfield (Maxwell).

                        (Rowan County Deed Book #9, page 474, shortened to DB9/474) 

 

            24 September 1787 Rowan County, North Carolina:  John Wilcockson Senior of Rowan County deeded to Abraham Weltey, deceased, his heir, executors, administrators, and assignees of the other part for 300 pounds, a parcel of land in Rowan County on the waters of Bear Creek...to a red oak near Thomas Maxfield farm.  (Signed: John (x) Willcoxson.  Witnesses: Benjamin Hodgens, Joseph Roland, Samuel Willcockson.            

  

Some Deeds/Grants Mentioning John Wilcockson

(Some lands reaffirmed after British rights ceased) 

 

            5 February 1778 - #93:   Thomas Maxwell 200 acres on Bear Creek adjacent __ Roland, John Wilcoxson, and north side of Adam Hall. +          

 

            31 July 1778 - #1174:  Daniel Lewis 600 acres on waters of Bear Creek and bounded by William Giles, John McElhenny, John Wilcockson, Daniel Moles, including a meeting house and his own improvement. (DB 9/209)  

 

            21 March 1780, Daniel Lewis was granted 100 acres on Bear Creek adjacent to Benjamin Bartley, Abraham Wiltey, John Wilcockson, and John McElhaney. + 

 

            There is a report that Daniel Lewis, Sr. married Hannah Wilcockson, sister to John Wilcockson, Senior and lived in Rowan County.

 

            1 August 1783, #2602.  Thomas Maxwell was deeded 150 acres on Bear Creek adjacent his own land and John Wilcockson, Senior including part of Wolf Branch.  Claim set up by John Wilcockson, Senior. +   

 

            1 September 1783, Thomas Maxwell was also granted by the State #645, 327 acres on the west side of Bear Creek adjacent John Wilcockson and his former survey. +

 

            + (Rowan County, North Carolina Vacant Land Entries 1778-1789, by Richard A. Enocks)

      

 

Bear Creek is northwest of Salisbury, Rowan County, North Carolina, by about 20 miles in Davie County.  An explanation is needed for these deeds.  John Granville, who never saw his vast North Carolina lands, died in 1763, forcing his land offices to close.  Consequently, it was not possible for a settler to obtain a land title between 1763 and 1778 within the Granville area.   In 1778, this changed and a claim for land could be entered in county records, because British land rights ceased during the American Revolution. 

 

John Wilcoxson - Last Years in Rowan County

 

1787 Rowan County Tax:  List of Capt Pearson, that part covering Davie County and the Fork of the Yadlin: 

            Samuel Wilcoxon – 3 w. males <21 or 50+, 1 w. male 21-50, 3 w. females

            John Wilcoxon – 3 w.m. <21 or 50+, 1 w. m.  21-50, 3 w. females

                and two entries away is:

            William Wilcoxon – 1 white male 21-50 only

 

1789 Rowan County Tax of Capt. Pearson:

            John Wilcockson 200 acres

 

1790 U.S. Census of Rowan County:   "John Wilcoxson, Sr. with his wife 45+ and one male under the age of sixteen.            

 

1793 Rowan County Petitions to partition the county:   William Willcockson, John Willcoxson next to each other.   Also, John Willcoxson, Jr.

 

1795 Rowan County Delinquent in Capt. Freelands Company: John Wilcockson – 1 poll.  

           

1798: The last of his lands in Rowan County were sold to his son - William and witnessed by son, Samuel, and grandson, Squire Willcockson.   He probably died shortly after this.

 

      

Last Deeds of John Willcockson

 

            16 March 1794 Rowan County: Jacob Keller of Rowan County to John Wilcoxson of the same county...55 acres...can't read microfilm – too underexposed....  (signed) Jacob Keller.  Witnesses – can't read.  Entered August 1795.   (DB14/90)

 

            20 July 1795 Rowan County: John Wilcockson, Senr. of Rowan County deeded to David Lewis of Rowan County, 30 acres for 30 pounds on the waters of Bear Creek, adjacent John Rowland.  Signed: John ("f") Willcockson.  Witnesses were Jacob Roland and Samuel Kaufman.  Entered August Session 1801.  (DB17/727)

 

            26 August 1795 Rowan County: John Willcoxson of Rowan County deeded to Jacob Keller of same county...said John Willcoxson, Sr...a parcel of land in Rowan County...to the east side of Bear Creek...granted to said John Willcoxon, Sen by the State.  (next is unreadable – underexposed microfilm)...(Signed: John ("x") Willcoxson.  Signed, sealed and delivered by William Willcockson in the presence of William Batlens-?.  Entered 16 February 1796. (DB14/388)   

 

26 February 1798.  John Willcockson, of Rowan County, North Carolina, deeded to William Willcockson of Rowan County, for 525 pounds a parcel of land containing 165 acres on both sides of Bear Creek...part of tract of 640 acres granted unto Jacob Keller, conveyed by J. Keller to John Willcockson and now by John Willcockson to William Willcockson.  Witnesses were Samuel Wilcockson and Squire Willcockson.  Signed: John (x) Willcockson. (DB19/254)

 

     26 February 1798.  John Willcockson of Rowan County, North Carolina deeded to William Willcockson for 250 pounds, estimation of 160 acres on Bear Creek including John Rowland’s line, now Edward Parkers to Jacob Keller corner.  Witnesses were Samuel Willcockson and Squire Willcockson.  Signed: John (x) Willcockson.  (DB19/256)

 

 

What Happened to Sarah Wilcoxson?

 

“Sarah Boone Wilcoxson died at the home of her daughter, Elizabeth Cutbirth in 1815 in Madison County, Kentucky.  ...No will of either Sarah (Boone) Wilcoxson or her husband John have been found, and no complete list of this children” 

From “The Boone Family – A genealogical History of Descendants of George and Mary Boone,” by Hazel A. Spraker, 1923 

 

This is disputed, as the Cutbirth family was thought to be living in Maury County, Tennessee at this time. 

 

Margy Miles disputed Sarah's possible grave location: "As for Sarah, I know that it is said that she died in Estill or Madison County in Kentucky, but don't think she is.  I think she is buried beside her husband, John, at the old Mocksville Cemetery in Davie County, North Carolina.  I knew an elderly descendant, William Willcockson, here in St. Louis.  He told me that his father took him to visit the graves of both Sarah and John at the Mocksville Cemetery when he was a little boy.  He said he remembered distinctly seeing the stone with her name on it right beside John.  I have been to the cemetery and there is a broken stone in just the right place to be hers.  William said it IS hers and that it was broken even back then but could still be read...."

      Email, courtesy of Margy Miles, 31 July 2009  

 

John Willcoxen “died in Rowan County, North Carolina, after which she removed to Kentucky with her Grandson, Jesse Boone Willcoxen, with whom she lived until her death which took place in the year 1814, at the age of about 97 years.”

From an 1861 letter by Jeremiah F. Willcoxen to Lyman Draper in Draper Manuscript Collection, courtesy of the Wisconsin Historical Society, Series 24C.  

 

Another source added that Sarah was probably buried in or near Jesse B. Wilcoxson’s farm in southern Clark County, Kentucky, not far from Boonesboro.    Jesse (~1780) is the son of Samuel Wilcoxson (1755).

John and Sarah Wilcockson

Oldest Original Log House in Davie County, North Carolina

 

            Apparently, the original log cabin of John and Sarah Wilcockson, thought built between 1752 and 1756 on south end of Bear Creek, has survived in Davie County, and over the years has been incorporated into newer sections of a larger private home.  The original part of the house was a 17 x 33 foot room with floor planks three inches thick and over 1 foot wide, with a narrow staircase to the attic.   The location of the house was not given, and is not open to the public. 

(From “Salisbury Sunday Post, 1B, 3 August 1975, article by Gordon Tomlinson, courtesy of Pat Frunzi)

 

Part Three: Children of John and Sarah Wilcockson

 

Children will be noted with roman numerals (I) (II) (III), etc

Grandchildren noted with (1) (2) (3), etc.

Great grandchildren with (i) (ii) (iii), etc.

Great-great grandchildren with (a) (b) (c), etc.

Great-great-great grandchildren with (aa), (bb), (cc)

 

Comments on the Children

 

            Children vary in numbers and names.   Birth dates continue to be a big time problem and better estimations are needed.   In addition, notice the similar 1755 birth year for Daniel Wilcockson, Jr., and Samuel Wilcockson.   No will or probate has been found for John or Sarah Willcockson.  As to their children, even Hazel A. Spraker wrote that there wasn’t a complete list of names. 

 

Jeremiah F. Willcoxen, a great grandson of John Wilcockson “I” (~1720 - 1798), wrote three 1861 letters to Lyman Draper of the Wisconsin Historical Society.  In them, he helped to explain the children of John Wilcockson:

 

Letter Number One:

28 March 1861

Mr. Draper

Dear Sir:

 

            I am a son of Elijah Willcoxen, deceased.  I have just received a letter from you address to him.  …He died 3rd July last (1860)…(and) was born 28 July 1789.

 

            You say you was informed that my father was a nephew of Col. Boon.  He was Grand Nephew of Col’n Boon, being a son of Samuel Willcoxen who was a Son of John and Sarah Willcoxen, formerly Sarah Boon, a sister of Col. Boon.  John Willcoxen and Sarah Boon was married in North Carolina (We are not in possession of the date).  He died in Roann County, North Carolina after which she removed to Kentucky with her Grandson Jesse Boon Willcoxen with whom she lived till her death which took place in the year 1814, at the age of about 77 years.  Grandfather Samuel Willcoxen married Anna Jordon (the date we have not).  They were married in North Carolina and afterwards removed to Kentucky where he died in the year 1825 at the age of 72 years.  Grandmother came to Illinois with our Father and remained with us till she died in the year 17(4?)0 at the age of 84 years.  Mother says she thinks Col. Boon never revisited Kentucky after he settled in Missouri.  The names of those men whom you mention as companions of Boon are familiar to my mother in connection with the name of Boon but she can give no historical account of them. 

            I take the liberty of sending you the obituary of my father (clipped from our county paper).  There is one item left out that should have been mentioned – that he was a volunteer in the War of 1812.

            Wishing you great success in your undertaking, I subscribe myself.

                        Very truly yours

                        Jeremiah F. Willcoxen  (Draper Manuscripts 23C, #47)

 

Letter Number Two:

Postmarked Canton, Illinois

April 18, 1861

Mr. Draper

Dear Sir:

            I received yours of the 5th Int. and will proceed to answer your questions as nearly as Mother can remember (as we are not in possession of family records so far back).

 

            1st – Grandfather, had six Brothers and 4 Sisters all older than himself except one his name was William.  The names of the older ones were John, George, Isaac, Daniel, Israel (Israel was killed by the Indians at Boonesborough, Kentucky), Elizabeth she married Benjamin Cutbeard, Mary married Walker, Rachel married William Byant, Sarah married Thomas Hagans.

 

            2nd – Great Grandfather was a native of Wales

 

            3rd – Uncle Jesse B. Willcoxen lived in Madison County, Kentucky.  He is not living, he has been dead about 35 years.

 

            4th – John Willcoxen’s children are none living.

 

            5th – Grandfather’s Brother Daniel Lived in Kentucky but we do not know whether he was the one you refer to and we do not know anything about his family.

 

            I do not remember to have heard Father relate any important facts about Col. Boon, but what is generally known.  I am not acquainted with Richard Osbourne, but I will make some inquiries after him, if should I see him I will do as you request.

            Very Respectfully Yours.  J. Willcoxen.   (Draper Manuscripts 23C, #49)

 

Letter Number Three: (condensed):

           

            “My mother requested me to say that she was a daughter of Elijah and Mary Calaway, formerly Mary Cutbirth, daughter of Benjamin and Elizabeth Cutbirth (who) was a daughter of John and Sarah Willcoxen.   (Draper Manuscripts 23C #50)

           

Further comments: Missing on Jeremiah Willcoxen's list is David Wilcoxson and Nancy Wilcoxson.  

 

            Beware that there are apparently two David Wilcoxsons who are hard to separate.  At this point in time, David Wilcoxon of Tennessee may and may not be a son of John + Sarah Wilcoxson.   Major changes have taken place with William Wilcoxson - son of John.

 

            (I). George Willcockson (~1742/45 Pennsylvania to ~1799+ Tennessee) was a weaver in Rowan County, NC; mill, distiller, and tavern owner in Sevier County, Tennessee.  Possibly was the first son.  Wife in his will was Catherine.    

 

1761 Rowan County NC Tax: John Wilcockson with son George – 2 polls. (Note - this is the only clue to estimating his birth date.)

1768/69 Rowan County Court: Samuel Hall versus George Willcocks (weaver), with John Willcocks as security.

From M.A. Payne: contents of a manila envelop labeled “Wilcoxson.”  At top of paper “J.F. McCubbens, Clerk Superior Court, Rowan County, Salisbury, N.C.”

1775 (8 February) Rowan County Court:  George Wilcoxon, guardian of John Morgan, brought the said John Morgan before this court and on his resistance to apply for some magistrate for a warrant or other sufficient authority.

Abstracts of Minutes of the Court of Pleas and Quarter Sessions – Rowan County, North Carolina 1775-1789, by Jo White Lynn, 1982, CB4/59)

1776 Rowan County Tax in Capt. Lyons District:  George Willcoxin (Same district as John Willcoxon Sr. and Jr.

1778 Rowan County Tax in Capt. Johnston's District:  George Wilcoxon

1777 (August 7):   Rowan County List of Men on suspicion of being unfriendly to this State.  They took the oath and signed (included) George Wilcockson.

 

1780 April 14 - Greene County, old North Carolina – today’s Tennessee: George Willcockson requested and had entered a 150 acre land grant on Dumplin Creek on this date.  Land was granted 12 July 1794.

 

1783 October 29 – Greene County: George Wilcoxon entry for 640 acres on the north side of French Broad River which was granted 8 June 1797.

1784 April 21 – Greene County: William Wilcockson entry for 150 acres on the waters of Dumplin Creek which was granted 8 June 1786.

1788 November 10 – Greene County: George Wilcockson has an entry for 400 acres on the north side of French Broad River which was granted 18 August 1795.

 

            Greene County boundaries have changed as newer counties were established.  West end of Dumpling Creek in today’s Sevier County and east end in Jefferson County.  If Wilcockson’s lands were clustered near one another, then they were mostly in today’s Sevier County.    

 

1788 State of Franklin (East Tennessee): “In North Carolina records is found the following list for the (Independent) State of Franklin ‘1788’ – Return of Field Officers for the County of Sevier;” (included) “George Wilcockson”

“The Lesser Franklin” by David H. Templen as found in Sevier County, Tn Genealogy and History online

~1799 Eastern Tennessee: "George Willcockson" and "David Willcockson" sign next to each other on a petition to the General Assembly of Tennessee.

Referenced in Ansearchin' News, 1990, page 78.   Details are incompletely known

 

David Willcockson in this petition may be George’s son. 

 

1799 April 16 - Jefferson County, Tennessee will abstract:  George Willcockson of Sevier County, Tennessee bequeathed to Elizabeth, his dearly beloved wife including ½ the old plantation while she remained a widow.   He gave to his following children: Mary McKinney, Sarah Campbell, Catharine Willcockson, Rebecca McKinney, David Willcockson and George Willcockson.  In addition, son David Willcockson received his mill and stills, and land and possessions to the fence above the mill dam and all the lands to the river.  Son George Willcockson received his old plantation with the tavern and all land adjoining it.  Money to Nancy Stropes’ youngest child at age of 16; Diana Carter received money, his house and lot in the town of Dandridge. Wife Elizabeth and Jeremiah Mathes were executors.  Witnesses: John Tharp and Jeremaiah Mathes.  Signed; George Willcockson. 

      *  Jefferson County, Tennessee Will Book 1, page 82

 

His probated date is missing, and therefore his date of death is not yet known.  Children named in the will appear to be adult ages.

 

1800 Jefferson County, Tennessee tax list: George Willcockson, one town lot in Capt. Carson’s Company; early tax lists appear lost for Sevier County, and also a “burned” records county.

           

Children of George Willcockson (1-6 per will):

 

(1). David Willcockson is difficult to trace.

 

~1810 Jefferson County, Tennessee: "David Willcoxon" is a witness in Jefferson County, Tennessee.

Land Deeds of Jefferson County, Tn 1792-1836, Edythe R. Whitley, 1982

 

1815 Sevier County, Tennessee: Roster of Captain Simeon Perry’s Mounted Infantry Company under command of Major General John Cocke for September to December 1815: (included) David Willcockson

Sevier County, Tennessee Genealogy and History online.

 

(2). George Willcockson “II”.  Possibly, wife’s name was Sally __ Wilcox (born 1760/70), as found on the 1830 U.S. Census of Jefferson County, Tennessee.  Nearby is a George Wilcox born between 1790/1800, possibly “III.” 

  

(3). Catharine Willcockson,

(4). Mary (Willcockson) McKinney

(5). Sarah (Willcockson) Campbell

(6). Rebecca (Willcockson) McKinney

 

(7). (possibly) William Willcockson.  “William Wilcockson” entered 150 acres on the waters of Dumplin Creek Greene County on 21 April 1784 and was granted the land 1 November 1786.   Relationship unclear, but may or may not be a son who is not mentioned in George Willcockson’s 1799 will. 

 

            (II). Elizabeth Wilcoxson was reported born in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania 17 March 174? and died 1815 in Mt. Pleasant, Maury County, Tennessee.  She married on ? date at Rowan County, North Carolina to Benjamin Cutbirth, Sr. (born about 1740 Augusta County, Virginia, per Lyman Draper).  Benjamin Cutberth (born ~1740) died about 1817 and is thought (unproven) to be buried at the Major Howell Cemetery, in Giles County, Tennessee on Elk Ridge near the Elk River (from Tony Cutberth, e-mail of 23 July 2005).   Howell Cemetery is also reported to be near Southport, Maury County, Tennessee.

 

 T. S. Calloway reported Benjamin Cutbirth, Sr. on hunting and trading trips to the Mississippi River and New Orleans between 1765-1770.   In 1767, the author, John Bakeless, recorded him hunting with Daniel Boone and that Cutbirth’s explorations helped Boone to become interested in Kentucky.   In 1783, Elizabeth (Wilcoxson) Cutbeard was noted as a member of Eaton’s Church in Rowan County, North Carolina and apparently married Benjamin about 1773. 

 

“I am unable to tell you where Grandfather Benj. Cutbirth, Sr., went to from this country (North Carolina).  His son Benjamin settled in what is now Johnson County in Tennessee.  ...Uncle Benjamin finally moved to the State of Iowa and was living there in 1842, but I have not heard of him since.” 

From T. S. Callaway, Ashe County, North Carolina, as written to Lyman Draper on 25 December 1883; Draper Manuscript Collection/Wisconsin Historical Society, 9C #133

 

Some locations for Benjamin Cutbirth, Sr. (Cutbeard, Cutberth, etc.)

 

<1775 Kentucky at St. Asaph’s Ford on Silver Creek: On 18 April 1801, Squire Boone made a deposition (taken in Shelby County at Jacob Estleman, Justice) concerning a land dispute between the heirs of Andrew Hannah versus William Morrison et al.  Being questioned about who crossed with him at St. Asaph’s Ford on Silver Creek, Squire named Samuel Deil, Daniel Boone, Benjamin Cutbeard, Joseph Roberts and Benjamin Neel, “before he entered the land.”

Fayette County Kentucky Records, Volume 1, by Michael L. Cook and Bettie A. Cummings Cooks, 1985, page 66.  Their Source – Fayette County Record Book A, page 144-148. 

1783 Rowan County, North Carolina

1787 Wilkes County, North Carolina

1790 Fort Boonesborough, Kentucky

1796, 1798 Carter County, Tennessee tax record:  Benjamin Cutberth, Sr.

1799-1802 Carter County, Tn per deeds

1803 - 1807 Knox County, Kentucky yearly tax; “Sr.” is noted 1806 and 1807.

1807 Tennessee: Signs petition to form Maury County

1810 Knox County, Kentucky – U.S. Census: Benjamin Cutberth, but does not say Jr. or Sr.

1811 Maury County, Tennessee tax list: Benjamin with son Daniel

1814 August 25 - Issue of “The Columbia Chronicle”: Cutbirth named a petitioner who was forced off Cherokee land in adjacent Alabama

1815 Maury County, Tennessee – Elizabeth buried here.

1817 Giles County, Tennessee – Benjamin Cutbirth, Sr. possibly died here.

 

Carter County, Tennessee Deeds Referring to Benjamin Cutbirth, Sr.

 

9 January 1799/registered 2 September 1799 Carter County, Tennessee:  William McNabb Coroner of Carter County, Tennessee deeded to Nathaniel Folsom of Carter County - settlement of a judgment obtained by Elizabeth Dotson and Nathaniel Taylor, administrators of the estate of George Dotson, deceased against Benjamin Cutburth, Sr. for $15 - 200 acres lying on the Laurel Fork of Holston River and includes the place where the said Cutberth now lives.

Old Deed Book A, Page 205, as related in Carter County, Tn Deed Books A-B July 1796-1815 by Vicky L. Hutchings, 2002

 

8 September 1800/registered 10 June 1801 Carter County:  Benjamin Cutbirth, Sr. of Carter County, Tennessee deeded to John McElyea of Carter County for $330 - 150 acres lying on the Laurel Fork of Holston beginning on a corner of Richard Wooldrige - Witnessed by Godfey Carriger, Jr., Joseph Thompkins

Old Deed Book A., Page 299 as related in Carter County, Tn Deed Books A-B July 1796-1815 by Vicky L. Hutchings, 2002

 

10 May 1803/registered 18 October 1803 Carter County: Benjamin Cutbirth, Sr. of Knox County, Kentucky to Joseph Wilson of Carter County, Tennessee for $300 - 50 acres being part of a tract of land granted by the State of North Carolina to William Wilson for 200 acres, bordering a conditional line between the said Benjamin Cutbirth and John McElyea, a fence of Benjamin Cutbirth, Jr. the north fork of the Holston and the lower line of said Wilson.  Witnessed by Alexander Doran, Abraham Buck.  (

Old Deed Book A, page 434, as related in Carter County, Tn Deed Books A-B July 1796-1815 by Vicky L. Hutchings, 2002

 

  Children of Benjamin Cutbirth and Elizabeth Wilcoxson:

(Birth Dates need better estimations)

 

(1) Daniel Boone Cutbirth (1760’s) married Elizabeth Coleman and had 11 children.  One daughter was Sabrina Cutbirth (~16 February 1799 to 26 January 1877 Huson Cemetery, Farmersville, Collin County, Texas).  Grave stone gives date of death and adds she lived 77 years, 11 months, and 10 days.   Sabrina married David Wilcoxen “II” (1796 – 1883).

   

(2) Benjamin Cutbirth Jr., ~1764

(3) Mary Cutbirth married Elijah Calloway. 

 

According to Jeremiah F. Willcockson of Fulton County, Illinois: “My mother (Charlotte Calloway Willcockson) requested me to say that she was a daughter of Elijah and Mary Calaway, formerly Mary Cutbirth, daughter of Benjamin and Elizabeth Cutbirth (who) was a daughter of John and Sarah Willcoxen.”   (Draper Manuscripts 23C #50)

 

(4) Sarah Cutbirth (~1772 to ~1845) is

 

            (III). John Wilcoxson "II" was born in Lancaster County (now Berks County), Pennsylvania about 1743/46 and died after 1830 in Howard County, Missouri.  It is reported that he married about 1780 to Sarah Notson in Fayette County, Kentucky.  

 

Some locations for John Wilcoxson, Jr. and his sons:

"Questionably" means cannot rule out someone else such as John Wilcox, son of George Wilcoxson "II"

 

1776 Rowan County, NC Tax:  "John Willcoxson, Jun" next to senior.

 

(Questionably) - 1786 Bourbon County:  Three petitions from inhabitants of Bourbon County:  First Petition mentions..."that a number of your petitioners are settled in that part of the said County of Bourbon which is commonly known by the name of Limestone Settlement about 40 miles distant from the place agreed on for holding Court...(divide) into a distinct county....   Third petition of the inhabitants of Bourbon: most of them settled in a Village called Washington in the settlement of Limestone in the city aforesaid...upwards of 700 hundred acres laid off in and out lots for the use of said village...settled upwards of 50 families.  ...This would be a most central and convenient place...for county buildings (22 August 1786.   (Signatures include) John Wilcox (or Willcocks) in each petition. +*

 

            Bourbon County's earliest tax record is 1787 (questionably incomplete) and does not list him. 

           

(Questionably) 1787 Fayette County, Kentucky tax records have a John Willcox and a John Willcocks (possibly the same person).   Neither appears in later Fayette tax records again.

(Questionably) 1787 Fayette County, Kentucky:  Petition of inhabitants of Fayette County and those contiguous to Steeles Ferry, near the mouth of Stone Lick on the Kentucky River.  ...Your petitioners are desirous of making tobacco to pay their taxes and for other purposes have not at this time any convenient warehouse or inspection to receive it when made, pray to establish inspection on the land of William Steele, who has already a convenient house erected for the purpose at his landing near his ferry on the said river.  (Signatures include) John Wilcox (Willcocks). +*           

1790 U.S. Census of Rowan County, North Carolina:  "Wilcoxon, John, Jr: " 3 males 16 up, 2 males <16, 2 females.  His father is also on this census.

1792 (20 August) Mercer County, Kentucky:  Will of John Thompson is witnessed by John Wilcoxson +** 

1793 Rowan County NC Petition to divide county: (includes) John Willcoxson, Jr.

1795, 1797, 1802, 1803, 1804, 1807, 1809 Clark County tax:  John Willcoxson with 333 acres, noted in 1807 on Trader Creek.  Senior or Junior was not used.  Sons Isaac (in 1807), Israel (1804, 1807, 1809), David (1807, 1809), and William (1803, 1809) are also in Clark County tax lists.

 

1809 Clark County tax record shows the following:  Daniel Willcoxson, Israel Willcoxson, John Willcoxson with 333 acres, David Willcoxson, William Willcockson; Jesse Willcockson with land on/near 4 Mile Creek originally owned by William Burk.  Jesse Wilcockson is the son of Samuel Wilcoxson and grandson of John Wilcoxson, Sr.   1803 Clark County's William Wilcoxson, if a son, was reported born 1789, but this tax suggests the birth date might be closer to ~1782 - 1785.

1810 – 1815:   No Willcoxsons found on tax list; Yearly review stopped at 1815.

1810 U.S. Census of Clark County:   John Wilcockson (age here is over 45), Daniel Wilcockson (son), and Jessie Wilcoxson.

1820 U.S. Census of Clark County, Kentucky with John adjacent to sons, Israel, Daniel, and Isaac Wilcoxson. 

1822 (23 August) Christian County, Kentucky:  Estate sale of John Weir, deceased; Purchasers included John Willcockson (Sr. or Jr. not given).  May be John “III.”

1830 U.S. Census of Howard County, Missouri:  John Wilcoxson 90-100 and 3 females 1 x 15-20, 1 x 40-50, 1 x 80-90 years of age.  Census entry next to him is David Wilcoxson (age 30-40) and family. 

+*  (Petitions of the Early Inhabitants of Kentucky to the General Assemby of Virginia 1769-1792, James Rood Robertson, 1914/reprinted)

+** (Kentucky Pioneer and Court Records - Abstracts by Mrs. Harry Kennett McAdams, page 69) 

 

Children of John Wilcoxson "II" and Sarah Notson:

(surname spelling may vary)

 

(1) William Wilcoxson was born 8 August 1789 and died 24 July 1864, buried at the Power Farm Cemetery, Cantrall, Sangamon County, Illinois.  William married Mary England (variable dates - 14 March 1786 to 10 August 1860 Sangamon County, Illinois), sister of Rev. Stephen England.  He is on Clark County, Kentucky tax records for 1803 and 1809 as William Willcockson.  Arrived in Sangamon County, Illinois in 1821 and lived there to beyond 1860.  Children of William + Mary Wilcoxson reported to be (i) David Wilcoxson who died in Kentucky, (ii) Nancy Wilcoxson 13 June 1804, (iii) Melinda Wilcoxson, (iv) Stephen E. Wilcoxson, (iv) Lucy Wilcoxson, (v) Ellen Wilcoxson, (vi) William B. Wilcoxson, (vii) George W. Wilcoxson. 

(2) Martha Wilcoxson (~1785) never married.

(3) David Wilcoxson (born ~1794/95 to >1880) who married 10 June 1821 Howard County, Missouri, to Nancy Johnson.  On 1880 U.S. Census of Howard County, Missouri, and born North Carolina.

(4) Daniel Wilcoxson

(5) Mary Wilcoxson.   There is a questionable claim by descendants that their Mary Wilcoxson (born 24 May 1772) was a daughter of John Wilcoxson and married on 30 November 1790 to Caleb Letton.  They moved to Bourbon County in 1795.  (From Bourbon, Harrison, Nicholas, and Scott Counties, Kentucky History, by William Henry Perrin, 1882.).  Her birth date appears to be too early and not the correct Mary. 

(6) John Wilcoxson ('III") was born estimated 1790 and reported buried possibly at Pioneer Cemetery, Hopkinsville, Christian County, Kentucky.   He may or may note be the same person noted on 1810, 1820 U.S. Census of Clark County, Kentucky.  Reported by findagrave.com to have married Adah __ (1789 – 1824) and buried at same cemetery.

(7) Israel Wilcoxson married Polly Fleming and moved to Boone County, Missouri.   There is an Israel Willcockson/Willcoxen/Willcoxson in 1804, 1807 and 1809 Clark County, Kentucky, along with father John Willcoxen in tax records 

(8) Amos Wilcoxson was born 13 December 1792 and died 16 September 1871 and buried Union Cemetery, Craighhead County, Arkansas (per findagrave.com).  Amos married on 14 February 1816 Clark County, Kentucky to Vina Dawson (county record).

 

(9) Isaac Willcoxson was born ~1775/79 and died September 1835, buried at Goshen Primitve Baptist Church Cemetery, Wilton, Boone County, Missouri.   Isaac married on 25 May 1797 Clark County, Kentucky to (his cousin) Rebeccah White (county record).   Rebeccah White was born ~1777 and died 24 May 1844^^ or December 184(7?)  (Goshen Church record) and buried same location.    She was the daughter of William White + Elizabeth Boone, and granddaughter of Samuel Boone, Sr. + Sarah Day.   Samuel Boone (~1728-1816) was a brother to Daniel Boone (1734-1820).   They lived in the following locations:

^ My thanks go to Janet Willcoxon de la Pena for sharing her excellent compilations on Isaac and Daniel Boone Willcoxson, emails 15 - 19 July 2012.

^^ from Wanda O’Dell via Janet Willcoxon de la Pena

 

(Possibly) 1795 Madison County, Kentucky tax: Isaac Wilcoxon (only year).  No detailing.

1796 February 3 – Clark County, Kentucky: Isaac was surety for the marriage of Sarah “Sally” Hagans to Jesse B. Willcockson, signed by Thomas Hagans and witnessed by Thomas Brinegar and Jean Grimes.

1797 Clark County, Kentucky Tax: Isaac Willcocks, 1 white male 21+, 0 w. male 16-20, 0 blacks, 2 horses, no other detailing.

1797 May 19 – Clark County, Kentucky:  On 19 May 1797, “I, William White and Elizabeth White have sertify that Isaac Willcockson may obtain __ to join in union with my daughter Rebeccah in the said County.”   (Signed) William White, Thomas Brinegar, and William Willcockson.”^

^ From Wanda O’Dell, per Janet Willcoxon de la Pena.   

1797 May 25 - Clark County, Kentucky: Marriage of “Rebeckah White” to “Isaac Wilcokson” (county record).   Bride and groom were reported to be age 20, which would make their birth dates ~1777, but needs confirming.

(Possibly) 1800 to 1803 Fayette County, Kentucky tax: Isaac Wilcockson (Wilcox, Wilkockson, Wilcocks) with no acreage or detailing.  (Leasing land?)

1808 Clark County, Kentucky Tax: Isaac Wilcockson, 70 acres, Four Mile Creek, 1 male 21+, 1 black 16+. 1 black all ages, 3 horses.   1810 – 1815 taxes appear incomplete and not checked after 1815 (JRM).   Cousin Jesse Wilcockson is also on 4 Mile Creek 1799 through 1809 per tax records.  4 Mile Creek is east of Fort Boonesborough.

1809 Clark County: Isaac Wilcockson purchased 27 acres of land from Phillip Bush (Deed Book 6, page 496, shortened to DB 6/496 – not seen).  

1820 Clark County – U.S. Census: Isaac Wilcoxson - age 26-45 with 15 other household members.   He is adjacent to families of John Wilcoxson (age 45+) and Israel Wilcoxson (age 26-45).

1820 September 16 – Clark County: Isaac sold Clark County land to Fielding A. Conley.   (DB 17/71 – not seen).   Index shows possible purchase in DB 17/70 (not seen) and notes Isaac Wilcockson gave power of attorney to Benjamin Allen in 1826 (DB 21/365 – not seen), suggesting unsold property.

~1820 Boone County, Missouri:  Wulfeck states Isaac Wilcockson migrated to 1818 Howard County (that part which became Boone County in 1820), but above evidence raises doubt. 

1821-25 Boone County Missouri tax: Isaac Wilcockson (generic spelling)

1820’s:  Willcocksons joined the Little Bonne Femme Church, named after a nearby creek southeast of Columbia.  Church was Primitive/Regular Baptist.  In 1820, cousin Lazarus Wilcox (wife Lucy) became Clerk in 1820.  

1826 Boone County: Land Patent, plat 9, township 45 (Original Land Patents 1820-1832 Boone Co., Mo.)  Isaac grew hemp and tobacco.

1828 November 2 – Boone County: Letters of Dismissal were written by Little Bonne Femme Church.  They soon became original charter members for the new Baptist Church of Jesus Christ at New Salem, later known as New Salem Baptist Church in Ashland, Boone County, Missouri. 

1830 Cedar Township, Boone County – US Census: Isaac Wilcox, wife, 5 sons, 8 slaves.

1832 September – Boone County: Became original charter members of Goshen Primitive Baptist Church in Wilton, Boone County.  Church membership indicates Isaac Wilcockson died September 1835 and Rebecca Wilcockson in December 1847? (date hard to read).

1834 October 4 – Boone County: Will of Isaac Willcockson began probate 30 September 1835, and named son Samuel B. Wilcoxson executor. (Will #231)

1840 Cedar Township, Boone County – US Census: Rebecca Willcoxen and with 3 males.  She is next to son William W. Willcoxson and near son Samuel Willcoxen.

1849 September 28 – Boone County: Rebeccah’s estate was administered this date.

 

Children of Isaac Willcoxson + Rebecca White: ^

(^ Wilcoxson and Allied Families,” by Dorothy Wulfeck + generic surname spelling)

 

(i). Samuel B. Wilcockson 4/1/1789-10/13/1865 (Amelia “Milly” Basnett) (Eliza J. Peak)

(ii). Mary “Polly” Wilcockson 1799-1879 (Wm. P. Risk)

(iii). Sarah Wilcockson 1801 -1857 (David Peeler)

(iv). William W. Wilcockson 1804-1845 (Prudence Smith)

(v). Elizabeth Wilcockson 1805-1867 (Robert Boucher)

(vi). Leannah Wilcockson ~1807 to ~1845 (Charles Lewis Callaway)

(vii). Rebecca Wilcockson 1808-1888 (John Sappington)

(viii). Isaac Newton Wilcockson 1813-1857 (Sarah A. Clinkenbeard)

(ix). Daniel B. (Boone) Willcockson ~1815-1852 (Catherine Griggs)

(x). James P. Wilcockson ~1818 to ~1851 Claysville Township, Boone County.

(xi). John C. Wilcockson died 1846 (Mourning Margaret Jones)

(xii). David J. Wilcockson 1821-1879 (Martha Blythe).

(xiii). (possibly) Larry Wilcockson, from Wilton Book, page 77. 

 

(ix). Daniel Boone Willcockson (~1815 Kentucky to 1852 Bates or Vernon County, Missouri), son of Isaac + Rebecca White Willcoxson, married on 3 April 1836 at Goshen Primitive Baptist Church, Boone County, Missouri to Catherine Mary Griggs (~1818 Clark County, Kentucky to 1857), daughter of John Griggs “II” and Nancy Barnett.^   Events for this couple:

^ Compiled by Janet Willcoxon de la Pena, 2012, emails courtesy 15-19 July 2012.  Thank you Janet, for your information.

 

1832 September: Daniel Wilcockson and his parents are recorded on this date belonging to the Goshen Primitive Baptist Church in Wilton, Boone County.

1835 February 2 – Boone County, Missouri: Before Daniel was married, he was involved in a land sale of 40 acres.   This land was later referred as Catherine’s “dower” lands, which she sold to Thomas Brinegar on 5 February 1838.

1835 April:  Catherine Grigg’s Baptism record is mentioned at the same church.

1837 November 2: Daniel B. Wilcockson was granted a 40 acre land patent for Section 32, Township 46N, Range 12W, 5th Meridan in Boone County. (US General Land Office Records – Ancestry.com)

1840 Cedar Township, Boone County – US Census: Male 25-30 (Daniel), female 25-30 (wife Catherine), 1 male <5 (son Napoleon R. Willcockson), 1 female <5 (daughter Theresa Ann Willcockson).  Also, living nearby was Daniel’s mother, “Rebeca Willcoxen” (60-70), with 2 males (20-30) and one male (15-20).

1843 Feburary 23 – Boone County: Daniel sold 200 acres to John Sappington, his brother-in-law.

1844 January - Goshen Primitive Baptist Church: Wife Catherine was a given a letter of dismissal, probably to transfer elsewhere.

1847 August - October: Goshen Primitive Baptist Church membership list states “Daniel Wilcoxen joined August 1847” and “died October 1847.”   Evidence shows he lived beyond this date.

1850 Bates County, Missouri – US Census:  Daniel Wilcockson 35 farmer, Mary Wilcockson 35, Pola Wilcockson 12, Buck Wilcockson 10, Cresa Wilcockson 14, Nancy Wilcockson 8.  First 3 born Tennessee (incorrect), and rest in Missouri. 

1852: From Janet Willcoxon de la Pena: It is probable that Daniel died by November 1852 in Bates or Vernon County, Missouri.  This was about of time of death for his brother John C. Willcockson.   A Boone County Court receipt dated November 1852 for $199.66 was received from Daniel’s brother Samuel Willcockson, who was the executor for his Isaac’s estate.  $6.66 was paid out for the services by Daniel B. Willcockson and his brother, John “C” Willcockson, and was signed by (brother-in-law) John Sappington.

1856 January 15 – Boone County: Daniel’s brother Samuel Wilcockson purchased 40 acres next to land “once belonging” to Daniel B. Willcockson.

1857 November 6 – Vernon County, Missouri: Estate of Catherine Willcockson was administered by her brother, Jessie T. Griggs which was finalized 6 August 1868.  Her heirs named were Theresa A. “Fastin,” M. L. Wilcoxon, Nancy Wilcoxon, and John W. Wilcoxon.  

 

Children of Daniel B. Willcockson + Catherine Griggs

 

(a) Napoleon R. “Pola” Willcockson  was born ~1838 and but died after 1850 US Census.

(b) Theresa A. “Crissa” Willcockson, 1839-1905, (1st- James H. Foster) (2nd Hiram Gibson

(c) Mortimer Thomas “Buck” Willcockson, 1840-1922 (Nancy Thomas Poland).  Changed surname spelling to Willcoxon which has been used since.

(d) Nancy G. Willcockson, 1843-1923, (1st John Milton Willcockson) (2nd Unknown Calvin)

(e) John W. Willcockson, 1853 to ?, (1st Mary Ann Mustain) (2nd Mrs. Fannie Ann Carson Watts).

(e) infant who died 1854

 

            (IV). Nancy Wilcoxson was born 17 May 174? at Lancaster County (now Berks County), Pennsylvania and died 30 October 1790 at Wilkes County, North Carolina.  Nancy married Benjamin Greer (1741 to 23 October 1816) and her household of 9 males and 1 female was noted on the 1790 Wilkes County census.   Benjamin married 2nd to __.

 

      “My Grandfather (Benjamin Greer, Sr.), was seven months younger than Daniel Boone to the day and date ...removed to Kentucky about the year 1800 and settled there in Green County on Green River ...and died there.” 

(Condensed from four letters dated 1884 and 1885 by Jesse Greer, Jr., at age 78,  Jefferson, Ashe County, North Carolina – Draper Manuscript Collection/Wisconsin Historical Society, Series C, Volume 9, #23, 24, 25, 27, 29)

 

            Leah Greer Barrow relates, "Benjamin Greer was (my grand ancestor).  ...My grandfather John U. Greer was born in Ashe County, North Carolina in 1867.  He died in 1972 in Pike County, Kentucky.  My father built my grandfather a cabin when I was about six, so I got to see him cook over an open fire and he would go into the mountains and stay for days living on what grew and what he could catch.  I was born on a farm, just over the mountain of Wise, Virginia which had been in the family since the founding of Kentucky."  Leah relates more about the Greer herb business in the chapter about Silas Morphew, ~1752 – 1807.  (E-mail courtesy of Leah Greer Barrow, 10 April 2006)

 

            1804 – 1816 Green County, Kentucky tax records:  Benjamin Greer is recorded on Trammell Creek (Little Barren River) 1804 - ~1807 and 166 acres on nearby Greasy Creek (Little Barren River) from ~1808 to 1816.    Tax records note Sarah Greer with the same 166 acres in 1817 and Aquilla Greer in 1819-1820 with 167 acres on Greasy Creek, which was purchased from Jacob Wilcox.      

 

         Children of Benjamin Greer and Nancy Wilcoxson are reported to be (needs confirming):  (1) Rachel Greer, 31 March 1768, (2) Jesse Greer, Sr., 14 November 1778, (3) David Greer, 2 February 1781, (4) William Greer    

 

 (V). Isaac Wilcoxson was born before 1751 in Bucks County or Lancaster County, Pennsylvania and died before 10 October 1783.  He married Ruth (Johnston-?) about 1775.   There are two other Isaac Wilcoxsons to consider when looking at records.  Uncle Isaac Wilcockson died in 1765 and cousin Isaac Wilcoxson (Wilcox) was born about 1770.   Ruth's maiden name may be Johnston because of her numerous Johnston interactions.  After 1800, she changed to the Wilcox spelling.  

 

1771 (12 February) Rowan County:   Orphans of Isaac Willcock, deceased – William, Daniel, and Martha came into court and chose as their guardian, Isaac Willcock, under 100 pound bond with George Willcocks and John Bryant as security.

1772 Rowan County tax: William Sharp's District:  David Jones with Daniel Wilcox; 7 entries away is "Isaac Wilcox and William Wilcox - 2 polls."   Also, named in 1772 is George Wilcox       

 

Comment: No matter how useful these Rowan County tax lists, we always see a very incomplete list of Wilcocksons.   Rowan County lands for this Isaac Wilcoxson have not been identified at this time.  Possibly, he is working his father's - John Wilcoxson's Bear Creek lands or he was leasing property.

 

1775 (20 September) Rowan County Committee of Safety:  (includes) Isaac Wilcockson.

                        (Rowan County Order Book 10, pages 252-254)

1778 (19 June) Rowan County:    Isaac Wilcoxson, 320 acres in Capt. Johnston's District and adjacent William Whitaker, James Noland, and Mr. Barnes for compliment along James Reed's lines.  

(Rowan County Vacant Land Entries 1778-1789 by Richard A. Enocks, page 69, item #952)  

1778 (27 September) Rowan County: John Johnston 300 acres in Forks of Yadkin, adjacent John Thompson and Isaac Wilcockson, including Elias Barn's improvement.   

(Ibid, page 110, item #1534)  

1783 (5 August) Rowan County Court (4:368):  Administration of the Estate of Isaac Willcox, deceased, granted to widow Ruth Willcox who gave 200 pounds bond with Isaac Rich and John Johnston security and qualified.  An inventory of the Estate was filed 5 November 1783.

(Abstracts of Minutes of the Court of Pleas and Quarter Sessions – Rowan County, North Carolina 1775-1789, by Jo White Lynn, 1982)

           

            After Isaac Wilcockson died in ~1783, his wife Ruth makes the following records:

 

1783 September 23 - Rowan County:   Ruth Wilcoxon 80 acres on the waters of Dutchman's Creek and adjacent Isaac Wilcockson (deceased), Thomas Thompson, and John Johnston.  ("Deceased" is added by this writer)

(Rowan County Vacant Land Entries 1778-1789 by Richard A. Enocks, page 69, item #2666)

1783 October 10 - State of North Carolina Land Grant #257:  To Ruth Wilcockson, 320 acres in Rowan County on the waters of Dutchman's Creek...James Nolands corner and on William Whitaker's line.  (DB9/513)

1783 October 15 - Wilkes County:   Randolph Fugit and wife deeded to Ruth Wilcoxson for 500 pounds...a tract of land in Wilkes county...243 acres on the south fork of Roaring River on the Yadkin waters...beginning on a hillside near the creek.   (DB A-1/)

1785 September 14: Ruth Willcoxon of Rowan County do make constitute, ordain, and appoint Major John Johnston of Rowan County, lawful attorney for me and in my name to grant bargain and __ unto Basil Gaither, his heirs, a parcel of land in Rowan County where the Widdow Barns? now lives and also 30 acres adjoining out of a tract of land I now live on, and also all my estate rights, little property, (and so on).  (Signed) Ruth Willcoxson.  Witnesses: James Reid, Martha Gray.  John Johnston, my attorney who may think needful in keeping fully and clearly given under my hand as above.       (DB 13/93).

1786 July 18 - Rowan County:  Ruth Wilcoxson of Rowan County deeded to James Noland for 60 pounds a parcel of land, estimated 90 acres, in Rowan on Dutchman's Creek, corner on William Whitaker's line...James Read's line...to said Nolands line.  Registered August 1787.  (DB 11/77)

1787 Rowan County Tax:  Basil Gaither's District: Ruth Willcox with 0 white males 21+, 1 white male <21 or 60+, 5 females.  Also in district is George Willcockson, Jr., son of George Wilcoxson "II." 

1787 September 14 Wilkes County: Power of attorney from Ruth Willcockson, Rowan County to William Willcockson to sell land in Wilkes County to Benjamin Adams.  Signed; Ruth Willcockson.  Witnesses: James Reed and Martha Gray.  (Wilkes County Will Book 1/274/275)  On this same date Rowan County: Ruth Willcockson acknowledges Power of Attorney before Basil Gaither, Jr. Justice of the Peace.    Thanks go to Judy Brown for finding the power of attorney entries.

                       

~1787 (Date missed) State of North Carolina grant #1252 to Ruth Wilcoxon, a tract of land 107 acres in Rowan County on the waters of Dutchman's Creek...on John Johnson's line on the west...to said Thomas Thompson line...to Isaac Johnson's line.  (DB 11/ 688-689)

1789 July 24 - Fayette County, Kentucky Tax:  Aaron Wilcocks, Daniel Wilcocks, and Ruth Wilcocks.  1789 is the only year that Ruth Wilcox (Wilcoxson) shows up on the Fayette County taxes.

1792 November 2 - Rowan County:  Ruth Wilcockson of Kentucky by virtue of a power of attorney given to John Johnston of Rowan County, bearing date of 14 September 1785, and attested by James Reed and Martha Gray, deeded to Joseph Dial of Rowan County...for 420 pounds...parcel of land in Rowan County on the waters of Dutchman's Creek granted by the State of North Carolina to Ruth Willcockson, bearing date 25 October 1786, also 30 acres of a tract granted to aforesaid part of the original tract she formerly lived on...to John Johnstons...to Thomas Thomas...to Isaac Johnston.  Signed: Ruth Willcoxson (seal), Entered September 1795.  (DB 14/68)

1791 to 1795 Woodford County, Kentucky:  Ruth Wilcoxson with 3 to 5 horses and in 1795 with 40 acres of land on Clear Creek.  In 1796 to 1797, her son Joseph Wilcoxson continues with 40 acres of land on Clear Creek.                

1810 U.S. Census of Shelby County, Kentucky:  Ruth Wilcox.  Next to her is Joseph Wilcox and nearby is Matthew Bucey.                          

 

The children of Isaac Wilcoxson and his wife Ruth are:

 

(1) Joseph Wilcox (23 August 1775 to 20 July 1841 Randolph County, Missouri) married 21 August 1809 Shelby County, Kentucky to Elizabeth Woolfolk (county record).   1800 to beyond 1815, Ruth's son Joseph Wilcox is in Shelby County, Kentucky and has up to 200 acres on Joptha(?) Creek.   In 1815, Joseph Wilcox had 740 acres on Benson Creek which forms a boundary between today's Shelby and Franklin County.

 

(2) Margaret Wilcockson (1782 to about 1857 Morgan County, Kentucky) married 11 January 1800 at Shelby County, Kentucky to William Congleton (county record).

 

(3) Patty Wilcockson married 8 September 1796 Woodford County, Kentucky to Daniel Bromley.

 

+ (Rowan County, North Carolina Vacant Land Entries 1778 - 1789, by Richard A. Enocks)

 

(VI). Sarah Wilcoxson was born before 1755 and died after 1820.  She married, date unknown, to Thomas Hagans or Hagan (born <1752 to >1807/08).  After Thomas Hagans died about 1808, Sarah probably (not proved) married 2nd to William Clark.   Dates of death are speculation. 

 

            Pat Frunzi gives the following information, courtesy emails of 2 January 2002, 23 July 2006, and 19 October 2007:

 

Known documents and locations:

 

1778 Rowan County, North Carolina Buffalo Creek in the Forks of the Yadkin

1784-85 reported to be a chain carrier for Daniel Boone's survey work in Kentucky under the surname of Thomas Higgins.

1787 to 1792 Fayette County, Kentucky on or near 4 Mile Creek.  Some of this land was turned over to their son, David Hagans in 1800.

1789-1795, 1797-1799 Clark County, Kentucky (established 1792)

1800 – 1801 Madison County, Kentucky tax records; both Sarah and Thomas.  In 1807, Clay County was formed from Madison and a "Thomas Higgins" is on the first tax list, but not after that.

1800 Madison County: William Clark witnessed a document from Thomas and Sarah Hagans to son David for their land in Clark County, Kentucky.

1808 (14 May) Clay County, Kentucky:  "Sarah Higgins" is thought to have married William Clark.  Clark, a widower, born estimated 1740.

1808 Clay County:  Thomas Brinegar has 700 acres on the Middle Fork of the Kentucky River.  (In about 1807, the northern part of Clay County was formed from Madison County.  William Bryant is also there and David Higgins has 470 acres listed on the North Fork of the Kentucky River.   

1810 Clay County, Kentucky Census:  One male and one female 45+, no children.  Nearby on this census were Thomas Brineger and William Bryant.  Bryant married Rachel Wilcockson (~1785), daughter of John Wilcockson + Sarah Boone. 

1811 Clay County Tax List- William Clark:  In 1815, part of Clay was given to Estill County.

1818 Estill County:  Isaiah Wilcoxson and widow Sarah Clark were executor and executrix of the Will of William Clark.

1819 Estill County, Kentucky:  William Clark's will was probated.

1820 Estill County, Ravenna, Kentucky:  Sally Clark alone in household, age 45+.  She is between Thomas Bybee and Samuel Wilcoxen.  Bybee married 1st to a different Rachael Hagans and 2nd to Deborah Wilcoxson, sister of Sarah Wilcoxson.   Nearby on the 1820 census was Thomas Brinegar or Brinigar who probably married to Rachel Hagan, daughter of Thomas Hagan and Sarah Wilcoxson (born before 1755) – see (3) below.  

             

William Clark died in Estill County, Kentucky with his will written 29 July 1818 and probated May 1819.  The will named his wife Sarah, sons David and Henry, granddaughter Leah Clark.  It also mentioned Thomas Clark, Sarah Parker Clark, and Leah York Clark.  Executors were his wife Sarah Clark and Isaiah Wilcoxon." 

 

Children of Thomas and Sarah Hagan (Hagans) were:

 

(1) David Hagans was born ~1772 in North Carolina and died 1 August 1854 in Clark County, Kentucky.

 

(2) Sarah Hagans was born 1783/84 in North Carolina and died after 1850.  From Pat Frunzi: On an 1850 Census, she is recorded age 66 and born in North Carolina.

 

(3) Rachel Hagans was born between 1770 – 1775 in North Carolina and died 6 May 1832 in Estill County, Kentucky. Rachel probably married Thomas Brinegar (not certain), who lived close by to William Clark/Sarah Clark on Clay County 1810 and Ravenna, Estill County 1820 Census records.  

 

            (VII). Israel Wilcoxson was born in Rowan County, North Carolina before 1755 and died 1781 near Bryan Station, Fayette County, Kentucky at 26 years of age.  See Indian story of Daniel Wilcoxson.

 

             “Israel Wilcockson” is listed as a Virginia solder in the Revolution – probably Kentucky County, Virginia (Revolutionary Soldiers of Virginia,” by Eckenrode, 1911).

 

Land Worked by Israel Wilcoxson

 

            10 December 1780:  Levi Todd Assignee of Israel Wilcox this day claimed a preemption to a tract of land of 400 Acres at the State price in the District of Kentucky lying between the lower Blue Licks to Limestone run and Lawrence Creek about 10 miles from the Licks and two miles from Wm. McConels, including a spring and improvement by the said Wilcox making an Actual settlement in April 1779, satisfactory proof being made to the Court, they are of opinion that the said Todd has a right to a preempt’n of 400 Acres of land to include the above Location and that a Certificate issued accordingly.  

(From Certificate Book of the Virginia Land Commission 1779-1780,” by the Kentucky Historical Society, 1981).  

 

This land is about 10 miles northeast of Blue Licks Battlefield State Park and closer to the Ohio River.

                      

            (VIII). Lt. Daniel Wilcoxson was born 13 March 1755 at Rowan County, North Carolina and died 17 June 1837 in Shelby County, Kentucky.   Birth date is from his Revolutionary War pension application which does not name his wife or children.   Death date is from his son Lewis Wilcoxson in a Power of Attorney document dated 17 March 1855.  He is reported to have married Sarah Faulkner or Faulconer at Bryans Station October 1780, but proof is lacking.  Daniel is buried at R. Brewers Farm Cemetery, east from Bagdad, Shelby County, Kentucky.

 

In a reminiscence written in 1898 about Daniel, a son related what a grandmother had told him regarding an Indian attack near Bryant Station. ...”When plowing time came Daniel Wilcoxson and his brother were in the fields, Daniel was plowing and his brother sitting on a log picking the flint of his gun (one would plow and the other watch for Indians) when an Indian slipped up and tomahawked one on the log.  Daniel ran, the Indian after him.  The Indian was so near that when Daniel was on top of the fence, the Indian was at the bottom.  ...Daniel barely escaped with his life.” 

(From Filson Club History as related by Hazel A. Spraker in “The Boone Family”)

 

Spraker also added that she found a reminiscence written by a Mrs. S. B. Davis - a descendant of Daniel Wilcoxson.  Davis recalled her grandmother stating Sarah Wilcoxson (likely to be wife of Daniel) was present at the time of this Indian attack and went out to help Daniel to safety.

(The Boone Family by Ella Hazel Atterbury Spraker, 1922 and later editions, page 57)

 

1772 Rowan County, North Carolina tax:  William Sharp's District:  David Jones with Daniel Wilcox – 2 polls; 7 entries away is "Isaac Wilcox and William Wilcox – 2 polls.”

 

1777 Kentucky:  Daniel Wilcoxson was in Kentucky in 1777, according to 1779 Virginia Land Commission.

 

“Daniel Wilcoxson this day (10 January 1780) claimed a settlement and preemption to a tract of land in the district of Kentucky lying about 8 or 9 miles from Bryants Station on the dividing ridge between the big fork of Elkhorn and Coopers Run, a branch of Licking Creek, including a sinking spring by settling in the Country in the year 1777 and residing ever since; satisfactory proof being made to the court, they are of Opinion that the said Wilcoxson has a right to a settlement of 400 acres of land including the above location and the preemption of 1000 acres adjoining and that a Certificate issue accordingly”

From Certificate Book of the Virginia Land Commission, 1779-1780,” by Kentucky Historical Society, 1981, page 124.   

 

Coopers Run is about 4 miles northwest of Paris, Bourbon County, Kentucky.  Big fork of Elkhorn is a problem in that its main forks are too far west to be the right location.  This writer believes that Daniel’s land could be 8 to 9 miles straight north of Bryan(s) Station.  This would be at the northern point to today’s Fayette County, between the landmark of Jimtown and the landmark of Elizabeth Station on the Bourbon County side.   Sometime during 1777, settlers abandoned many fortified stations due to Indian threats or actual attacks.  These settlers gathered at the three remaining settlements in Kentucky – Boonesborough, Harrodsburg and Logan’s Station (St. Asaph’s). *

* Daniel Boone, by John Bakeless, 1938/1965, page 144.

 

1778 September: Siege of Boonesborough takes place.

 

Undated - Boone’s Fort was built in 1775 and among its (early) occupants were: (included) Daniel Wilcoxon

French Tipton Papers, Volume 1, EKU Special Cellections, pg 275 typed, pg 377 original

 

Undated – possibly 1779 or 1780, the following soldiers are noted: William Hogan, Captain at Bryan’s Station, Fayette County, November 17 – December 27, (no year given); Liet. Daniel Wilcockson; Private Israel Wilcockson. ^*   Israel Wilcockson died about 1781 or 1782.

^* (Miscellaneous reel 1384 (APA 208), Library of Virginia: Auditor of Virginia Public Accounts – Illinois papers 1779-1784, muster rolls and payrolls of Ketucky Militia)

 

1779 (10 June): Daniel Wilcoxon is listed as a pioneer soldier with Captain John Holder’s Company at or near Boonesborough 1779” with 56 men in present day Madison County, “at and near Boonesborough.”

From “French Tipton Thin Book,” pages 77-78 at Eastern Ky. University Archives Room.

 

1778 to 1783 – From his 1832 Pension Application S16582 (abstracted): In the fall of the year 1778 - September, he - Daniel Wilcoxen volunteered in Rowan County, North Carolina, in the company commanded by John Holder.  He was ordered to Kentucky to guard and defend Boonesborough, a fort situated on the Kentucky River.  Daniel with Holder’s Company” remained at Boonesborough until the 1st of July 1779, when he was ordered to Bryant’s Station at which place he remained in service until the fall of 1783.”  At Booneborough, Daniel served first in Captain William Hogan’s Company, and 2nd in Capt Robert Johnston’s Company (the father of Colonel Richard M. Johnston) in whose company Wilcoxen remained until the fall of 1783 when he was discharged.  He was a Lieutenant.  Some years after Bryant’s Station, he moved to Shelby County where he was living in 1832.      

 

1779 (14 October): Petition of distressed inhabitants of the County of Kentucky, situate in this remote part, exposed to all the barbarous ravages of inhuman savage….animated by (British) Governour Hamilton has enabled them to hold up a constant war this 4 years...get speedy redress... (or) go down the Mississippi to Spanish protection...many of our inhabitants both married and single have been taken by the Indians and carried to Detroit, others killed.....    We who first settled...think 400 acres too small a compensation.   Those who have settled since...1777...deprived of the opportunity of securing any land except 400 acres at the state price....    (On the other hand,) those who have been in the country within the year 1778...are entitled to...1000 acres(!)   Cheerfully refer the whole of our grievances to do as you in your wisdom may think right.  (Signatures include) “Daniel Willcockson.” +*

 

1779 – 1783:  Daniel Wilcoxon made a deposition for a Fayette County Court case of James Moore versus Henry Watkins.  Both claimed the same land on waters of north fork of Elkhorn including a clay lick on the dividing ridge between Licking and north fork of Elkhorn.  Daniel’s deposition was taken at the house of Elizha Wooldridge in Woodford County on 2 May 1803.

 

“I was well acquainted with the dividing ridge between Elkhorn and Licking rivers from fall of 1779, 1780, and 1781.  There was a number of Licks on said ridge and they were generally called clay licks particularly between head of Little North Fork of Elkhorn and the head of Cooper’s Run, a branch of Licking.“

 

Question by defendant – Were you acquainted with the county or neighborhood adjacent to McClelland’s Fort in year 1780 did you know of any road leading to Riddle’s Station?  Answer: “I know of no leading road but was very well acquainted with the country about it as it was my principle hunting ground from 1779 to 1783.” 

 

Question by Complainant – Was you so well acquainted on said dividing ridge as to be particularly acquainted with all the licks on said ridge?  Answer: “I cannot tell perhaps there might be licks that I know nothing of.”   Question by same – was you fully as well acquainted with the part of the ridge from Cooper’s Run to head of Eagle Creek as towards the little north fork of Elkhorn?  Answer: “I think I was equally well acquainted with each part for I hunted throughout every quarter in the part of the country but not till 1779.” 

 

Question by same – Do you think from knowledge of the country that there could have been a trace from McClelland’s Fort to Riddle’s Station with a discovery of it from 1776 to 1783?  Answer: “It may be possible that there might be a trace before 1779 because I was not acquainted till 1779 and from 1779 to 1783, I was acquainted there and never discovered any trace leading from the one place to the other.”

Fayette County Kentucky Records, Volume 1, by Michael L. Cook and Bettie A. Cummings Cooks, 1985, page 55.  Their Source – Fayette County Record Book A, page 97.    

 

1780: Daniel Wilcoxson made a 2nd deposition regarding a court case of Humphrey Marshall versus Abraham Buford.   Both claimed a large area of land on Big Bone Lick Creek and an adjacent creek which emptied into the Ohio River.   “Deposition of Daniel Wilcoxson, aged about 50 years (taken at the house of Henry Watkins, in the town of Versailles, on Saturday, July 29, 1804):

 

I “was at the Big Bone Lick near the Ohio River in 1780 which is now Boone County.  That he traveled to the Lick with Bartlett Searcy and when they struck a creek said Searcy informed deponent it was the Big Bone Lick creek and they traveled down said creek to the Big Bone Lick, which extended over several acres of land and he has been on same creek two or three times since and heard it called Big Bone Creek and nothing else.”

Ibid, page 149.  Their Source – Fayette County Record Book A, page 487.    

 

Comment: Bartlett Searcy was a Deputy Surveyor of Fayette County in 1782. 

 

1781: Revolutionary War pension application by Joseph Faulconer (Faulkner) stated a long history of service from 1779 to 1784.  Among his duties later in the year 1780, he served six months under the command of Captain Charles Gatliff at Bryant’s Station.  He continued in actual service for six months, frequently making excursions through the country in different directions and performing duties assigned him.  At the expiration of the term, he was discharged.  “Among all the individuals with whom he acted in the said six months of service, he knows of but one that is now living, Daniel Wilcox of Shelby County” who he believed was a Lieutenant in Captain Ro. Johnson’s Company in March 1781.

Revolutionary War Pensions of Soldiers Who Settled in Fayette County, Kentucky by Annie Walker Buins, 1936, page 36-38.     

 

  Joseph Faulkner is thought to be the brother of Daniel Wilcoxson’s wife Sarah/Sally.

 

1782: Author John Bakeless states this was Kentucky's "Year of Blood" from Indian attacks who "were everywhere."

(Daniel Boone, by John Bakeless, 1939, p 265)

 

1788 Fayette County, Kentucky tax record:   Daniel Wilcoxson with 3 horses

1788 (17 September Fayette County):  Petition of subscribers inhabitants of Fayette County...conceive a division of our county...as litigants live so remote from Lexington where our Courts are held that they cannot attend without incurring a greater expense than they can sustain. (Signatures include) Daniel Wilcocks +*    

1789 Fayette County tax record:  Daniel Willcocks, still with 3 horses.  (Signatures include) Daniel Willcocks.

 

1791 September 9 – Woodford County: Daniel Wilcoxson was granted 200 acres which were surveyed in Woodford County on the North Fork of Greers Creek.

 

1794 – Kentucky Gazette Newspaper, Lexington:  Suit in the Kentucky Court of Appeals – Joseph Craig versus Thomas Chinn et al.  Mentioned is Daniel Wilcoxson.  Date published is probably 26 July 1794.

The Kentucky Gazette 1787-1800, by Karen Mauer Green, 1983.

 

1791 to 1813+ Woodford County, Kentucky tax:  Daniel Wilcoxson with 150 acres on Greer’s Creek, surveyed for and patented by himself.   Beginning in 1807, his tax records add a younger male, age 16-20 and in 1813 two younger males 16-20.  Tax records were not reviewed after 1814.

 

? - 1799 Clark County tax – Daniel Wilcoxen

? - 1809 Clark County tax – Daniel Willcoxson

 

179(6?) October 4 – Woodford County, Kentucky: Indenture - Daniel Wilcoxson and Sarah his wife of Woodford deeded to Henry W. Field of same county for 80 pounds money, a track of land lying in Woodford County on the (unreadable) Fork of Greers Creek containing 40 acres, beginning at Jacks(?) preemption on said Fields line…Jacks line…Eagin’s line…crossing north fork of Greers Creek…meandering up creek…to said Fields line.   Signed: Daniel Wilcoxson (seal) and Sally “x” Wilcoxson (seal).  No Witnesses.  October Court 1796: Sally his wife agreed to sale.   (DB C2/43)

 

1808 September 20 – Woodford County: Whereas I formerly purchased a certain ___ of land, then estimated to contain 100 acres and it now appears to contain 121/9…12/?…27/p (127?) …said land hereafter be taken by a superior claim, I do hereby exonerate Daniel Wilcoxen and his heirs for being responsible in any manner whatever, for the surplus or any part thereof. Witnessed my hand and seal this 20th day September 1808.  Signed: John Whitaker (seal) Witnesses: Richard Fox and Rawleigh Hudson.  Entered 8 October 1808.   (DB D/391)

 

            John Whitaker was the 2nd husband of Martha Wilcox/Wilcockson, daughter of Isaac Wilcoxson (~1727 to 1765).   On 20 September 1808, Rawleigh Hudson also signed a similar exoneration of Daniel Wilcoxen. (DB D/393)

 

1808 September 27 – Woodford County: Indenture – Robert Johnson, surviving trustee of John Craig and the said John Craig and Sarah his wife of Boone County, Kentucky deeded to Daniel Wilcoxen of Woodford County for $2310 Kentucky money…tract or parcel of land in Woodford County…north side of the south fork of Craig’s Creek corner to William Strather, meandering up said creek…to corner of said Strather in Rawleigh Hudson’s line…to Bullocks line…to Delanys Road, then with middle of road…to Spencer Gill’s line …to Mitthels old survey…near __borough Meeting House…to Robert Shell, crossing a branch to beginning.  Estimated 231 acres.  Signed: John Craig (seal) and Sally Craig (seal).  Witnesses: Isaac Wilson, John Whitaker, John Whitaker Jr.   Entered 28 September 1808.  

 

1808 October 1 – Woodford County: Indenture – Daniel Wilcoxen and Sally his wife of Woodford County deeded to John Whitaker of same county for $1210 Kentucky dollars…tract or parcel of land in Woodford County on the waters of Craig’s Creek, beginning at a Stone on John Jouells? line corner to Robert Shelters…on north side of South Fork of Craig’s Creek and thence up said fork meandering to Hudson’s corner…to a stone on Delanys Road at Hudson’s corner… to Alexander Mitchells corner…containing 121 acres.  (Signed) Daniel Wilcoxon (seal) and Sally Wilcoxon (seal).  Witnesses none.  Entered 8 October 1808. (DB D/389)

 

1808 October 8 – Woodford County: Indenture – Daniel Wilcoxen and Sally his wife of Woodford County, deeded to Rawleigh Hudson of same county for 1000 dollars Kentucky contain a tract or parcel of land in Woodford County on waters of Craig’s Creek, bounded as follows…stone on Delany’s Road to John Whitaker...to corner of William Strother…to east side of the road with the middle of the road…containing 109 acres.  Signed: Daniel Wilcoxen (seal) and Sally Wilcoxen (seal).  Witnesses none.  Entered 18 October 1808. (DB D/390)

 

1810 and 1820 U.S. Census of Woodford County:  Daniel Wilcoxson.  In 1810 Daniel Wilcoxson was noted as head of a family of eight.

 

1811 August 4 – Woodford County: Indenture – Samuel Pawzey on Henry County, Kentucky deeded to Daniel Wilcoxson of Woodford County, for 50 Kentucky dollars, a tract or parcel of land situate in Woodford County on waters of Greer’s Creek, estimated 24 acres, beginning on bank of the south fork of Greer’s Creek where the line of Craig and Johnstons preemption of 1000 acres, an assignee of Joseph McClain, crosses the said fork…to the bank of the North Fork of the aforesaid Greer’s Creek, then down said North Fork…to the mouth of the aforesaid South Fork, thence up South Fork….   (Signed) Samuel Rowzee (seal).  Entered 4 September 1811.  (DB E/308)

 

1817 May 9 – Woodford County: Indenture from Daniel Wilcoxson of Woodford and Lewis F. Stevens of Franklin County, Knetucky deeded to Benjamin Watkins of Woodford County for $150, land in Woodford County on the South Fork of Greer’s Creek, being part of a survey of 320 acres in the name of John Falkner containing 32 ¾ acres.  Description: to top of a clift of a branch on the north side of said branch corner to said Benjamin Watkins on Willis Fields’s line...to Watkins line…crossing a branch to Benjamin Watkins..to John Falkner’s line…to north bank of a branch…up to a cliff.  (Signed): Daniel Wilcoxen.   Witnesses probably Herman Bowman, Jr., Clerk of County Court.  Recorded 1 March 1836.  Bowman noted this deed was “left in my office unrecorded by John Mckinnen, Jr., late clerk with his endorsement and acknowledged by Wilcoxson 9 May 1817 and entered into record 18 January 1837.”  (DB O/234)  

 

1821 February 3 – Woodford County:  Indenture from Daniel Wilcoxson and Sally Wilcoxon his wife of Shelby County deeded to Joseph Frazer of Woodford County for $1500 U.S. a certain tract or parcel in Woodford County on Greer’s Creek containing 98 acres with appurtences.  Description: To Lewis Sublett running with his line…to Joseph McCleans line…to south bank of north fork of Greer’s Creek, corner to Willis Field, then down said north fork to junction of north and south forks, up south fork to Joseph McClean’s line…to Heatt’s line…to Benjamin Watkins.  (Signed) Daniel Wilcoxson (seal) and Sally “x” Wilcoxson.  Witnesses only county clerk and signed in County Clerks office 3 February 1821 (DB K/259)    

 

1832 December 17 - Shelby County: Lt. Daniel Wilcoxen (also Wilcoxson or Wilcoxon) applied for Revolutionary War Pension, #S16582.   On 4 March 1834, he was grant 120 dollars per annum with back pay from 4 September 1832.    He stated on the application that he was born 13 March 1755 in Rowan County and he lived there when he enlisted.  Pension shows he died in Shelby County on 16 June 1837.  

 

1837 (16 June) Shelby County:  Daniel Wilcoxson filed his will March 1832 Shelby County, Kentucky naming William Wilcoxson and Henry Bohannon a friend, executors.  He died 16 June 1837.

 

Children of Daniel Wilcoxson and Sarah Faulker, born after 1780

 

(1). William Wilcoxson (12 April 1789, Fayette County, Kentucky to 6 October 1874 Green County, Kentucky).    He married Catherine Wilcoxson, daughter of William and Nancy Wilcoxson.   They lived in the following locations:

 

1840 U.S. Census of Green County, Kentucky:  William Willcoxson, born 1880-1890 and family 

1850 U.S. Census of Green County: William Wilcoxson (age 61, born Woodford County), Catherine (52, N.C.), George (19, Green Co), and Elizabeth (12), Green County).

1860 U.S. Census of Green County:  William (age 71) and Catharine Wilcoxson (age 62) with daughter Elizabeth (age 45).  Lived near sons Green C. Wilcoxson and George T. Wilcoxson.

1870 U.S. Census of Green County:  William (81) and Catharine (73); Lived near son Green C. Wilcoxson.

 

Reported children of William and Catherine Wilcoxson: (i) Green C. Wilcoxson 15 March 1816/17, (ii) Andrew Jackson Wilcoxson 17 July 1818, (iii) William C. Wilcoxson 20 July 1820 (iv) Daniel Isaac Wilcoxson 3 November 1822, (v) John L. Wilcoxson 3 March 1824, (vi) Nancy J. Wilcoxson 20 November 1826, (vii) James R. Wilcoxson 1827, (viii) Newton J. Wilcoxson 3 November 1828, (ix) Sarah (Sally) Wilcoxson 17 July 1831, (x) George T. Wilcoxson 16 January 1834, (xi) Elizabeth Wilcoxson 14 October 1837

 

(2) Patsy “Martha” Wilcoxson

(3) Polly “Mary” Wilcoxson

(4) Isaac Wilcoxson

(5) Frankie Wilcoxson

(6) Annie Wilcoxson

(7) Lewis Wilcoxson married on 27 October 1829 Shelby County to Nancy Miles. 

 

Lewis Wilcoxson was a member Kentucky State Legislature from Bullitt County in 1820, 1822, 1822, 1825, and 1829.   On 17 March 1853, Lewis Wilcoxson gave a power of attorney to George H. Monsarrat to defend a government claim that Revolutionary War pension money paid his father Daniel Wilcoxson was an invalid claim.  Lewis noted that his father Daniel died in Shelby County, Kentucky on 16 June 1837.    Witnesses to the Power of Attorney were Laurindo Wilcoxson and Amanda Wilcoxson.   Note: There is another Lewis Wilcoxen in Kentucky about this time who hasn’t been checked out.  

 

(8) Sally Wilcoxson, daughter of Daniel Wilcox, married 10 December 1826 Shelby County to Hugh Montgomery.  Bondman: William Buckhannon (county record).

(9) Joyce Wilcoxson, daughter of Daniel Wilcoxson, married on 18 September 1821 Shelby County to Abraham Lewis, son of James Lewis (county record).

(10) Daniel Wilcoxson "II."  

 

            1814 November 10:  Private Daniel Wilcoxon enlisted this date in Captain James Ford’s Company of Kentucky Detached Militia, commanded by Lt. Col. Presley Gray.    Company appears to be from Shelby County. 

Report of the Adjutant General of State of Kentucky – Soldiers of the War of 1812, 1891 reprint, page 307.

 

1816 December 10 Shelby County:  Marrage record for Daniel Wilcoxson to Lucy Masterson, daughter of John Masterson with bond by Charles Masterson.  

 

            (IX). Samuel Wilcoxson was born in Rowan County, North Carolina on 24 February 1755 and died 16 September (or November) 1825 at Stanton, Powell County, Kentucky.   Samuel married Anna Jordon at Rowan County, North Carolina.  See next generation in his chapter.  Note that he has the same birth year as Daniel Wilcoxson; one being incorrect.

 

            (X). Mary Wilcoxson was born about 1760 and died 1820 at Femme Osage, Boone County, Missouri, or Calloway County, Missouri.  Mary married Renelder Walker on 27 November 1778 at Wilkes County, N.C. (county record), bondsman Charles Walker, Daly Walker.   Marriage bond spells name "Renelder Walker."  Mary needs a serious review as to why she married in Wilkes County which seems out of place.

 

Locations they lived

 

1782 Wilkes County, North Carolina:  "Renelder Walker"

1796 Claiborne County, Tennessee – report needs confirmation

1803 - 1810 Knox County, Kentucky:  Renelder Walker – Yearly tax and 1810 Census

1820 Whitney County, Kentucky:  Renelder Walker and family        . 

 

     Children:  (1) Nathaniel Walker (10 June 1784 to 9 November 1859 Saline County, Missouri - twin), (2) John Walker (10 June 1784 – did not live long- twin), (3) Mary Walker (1780), (4) Samuel Wilcoxson Walker (13 August 1782 – 16 March 1849 Lafayette County, Missouri), (5) Jesse P. Walker (1783 to 1871 Whitley County, Kentucky), (6) Diana Walker (1787/8), (7) Joel Hayden Walker (8 December 1789 – 18 January 1875 Johnson County, Missouri), (8) Jane D. Walker (6 November 1794 – 20 February 1875 Bates County, Missouri), (9) Rachel Boone Walker (~1791), (10) Elias Walker (~1793), (11) Pleasant Philip Walker (8 March 1796 – 24 May 1879 Henry County, Missouri), (12) Sarah Walker (~ 1798 - >1870), (13) George W. Walker (16 September 1800 – 24 December 1886 Henry County, Missouri)

 

            (XI). Rachel Wilcoxson was born in Rowan County, North Carolina about 1765, and died about 1821 in Callaway County, Missouri.  She married about 1790 in Rowan County, North Carolina to William Bryant (1748-1833). 

 

William Bryant was noted at Fort Boonesborough in 1775 ^ and later is thought to be an early settler of Bryan’s Station and helped to build a blockhouse there. +    He returned to North Carolina and enlisted three times in the American Revolution in 1780 and 1781, and was at the Battle of Guilford Courthouse and Siege of Yorktown.   William and his wife are alone in their household in 1810 Estill County, Kentucky, both listed as age 45+.  William was part of an interesting lawsuit in 1815, which involved his son, Hiram Bryant, and Squire and Elijah Wilcoxson (see details in Samuel Wilcoxson Chapter under Squire Wilcoxson).   Later William and Rachel Bryant moved on to Missouri.  He applied for a pension at Boone County, Missouri on June 25th, 1833.

^  (Early Settlers of Fort Boonesborough by H. Thomas Tudor , 1995.  Tudor's source was the French Tipton Papers)

+  (From a letter in "Bryan Station - Heroes and Heroines," by Virginia Webb Howard, 1932, page 79)

 

Probable locations that William Bryant lived:

 

Kentucky County between 1775-1779

Fayette County, Kentucky, perhaps 1780

Madison County, Kentucky

Montgomery County, Kentucky

Estill County, Kentucky

Boone County, Kentucky?

Callaway County, Missouri?

Caldwell County, Missouri

    

    Children of William Bryant and Rachel Wilcoxson:

(1) Hiram Bryant, ~1792, (2) Rachel Bryant, (3) Susan Bryant, ~1800, (4) George Bryant, (5) Jeremiah Bryant, 20 August 1791 to 11 July 1834 Missouri, (6) Thomas Bryant, 10 January 1795 to 5 September 1845 Ripley County, Missouri, (7) Benjamin Bryant, ~1797, (8) Henry Bryant, ~1802 to 1840, (9) William Bryant, 1822

 

            (XII). William Wilcoxson (before 1755 to 1820+)  – Disputed information.  

 

Problem: There are two William Wilcoxson (Wilcox)

One son of John Sr. and other a son of Isaac Wilcoxson

 

1 - Which One Went to Berks County, Pennsylvania?

 

            After review, this writer believes William Wilcoxson (born before 1755 to >1820) - son of John Wilcoxson, went back to Berks County, Pennsylvania.    Previous texts indicated this was the son of Isaac Wilcoxson.  Detailing for Isaac and his son William can be found in the George Wilcockson (~1692) chapter.  

 

2 – Which William Wilcoxson Married Rachel Boone (1750 to -?)

 

            Less understood is the wife(s) of William Wilcoxson - son of John.   Again older texts state William Wilcoxson - son of Isaac married on 30 July 1777 to Rachel Boone, who was born 21 April 1750 in Exeter Township, Berks County, Pennsylvania.  Birth date comes from her father’s records.   Exeter Meeting House records state Rachel was born 10th day, 2nd month of 1750 with the father being James Boone and mother Mary.   This writer believes the Berks County records belong to the William - son of John Wilcoxson

           
            In 12 July 1785, Rachel Wilcockson was named in the will of her father, James Boone, Sr. which was filed in Berks County, Pennyslvania.  There is a second 1785 Berks County will filed by John Boone.  In it, he named his niece Rachel Willcockson and stated she was the wife of William Willcockson.   Both James Boone, Sr. and John Boone lived in Exeter Township, Berks County with John being a school teacher who never married.      

 

3 - Where did William Wilcoxson live in his final years?

 

            Dorothy Wulfeck wrote in her book^^ that William, son of John, died before November 1828 in Barren County, Kentucky.    Others believe that the Barren County's Wilcox belongs to the son of George Wilcoxson.

 

            Oddly enough, both William Wilcoxsons can be tracked in U.S. Census records by identifying how many (sadly to report) slaves each had in census records from 1790 through 1820.   William Wilcoxson - son of John, had a stable number of two from 1790 thru 1820, while William - son of Isaac has an ascending number.   Also, William Wilcoxson, son of John, is now estimated born 1750-1755 which might not make him the youngest child of John + Sarah Wilcoxson.          

^^ (Wilcoxson and Allied Families, Dorothy Ford Wulfeck, 1958, pg 40, 43)

++ (Old James Boone Genealogy, by James Boone, online)

     

Locations and Events for William Wilcoxson - son of John and Sarah Wilcoxson

 

1750 2nd month 10th day: Rachel Boone, daughter of James and Mary Boone was born in Berks County, Pennsylvania.

Pennsylvania Births – Berks County 1710 – 1780, by John T. Humphrey, 1997, page 36.

 

30/7/1777 – Exeter Monthly Meeting, Berks County, Pennsylvania: Informed that Rachel Wilcoxon, formerly Boone, daughter of James Boone, hath accomplished her marriage by the assistance of a priest with a man not in membership with Friends.

Berks County Church Records of the 18th Century, Volume 2, by F. Edward Wright, 2007, page 153.

 

            The following are 1778 – 1785 Berks County, Pennsylvania tax lists (missing 1772 and 1773) for William Wilcocks (various spellings).   The name below may and may not be our William Wilcoxson:

 

1780 Reading Township, Berks Co: William Wilcox, 1 Negroe, 3 horses, 1 cow.

1781 Cumru Township, Berks Co: Wm Willcox, Trader, 1 Negroe, 2 horses, 1 cow

1784 Oley Township, Berks Co: Wm Wilcox, no acres, 2 horses, 1 cow, 2 persons.  Several other 1784 townships defined “persons” to mean number of persons in family; i.e. Exeter’s James Boone had 5 persons.

1785 Oley Township, Berks Co: Will’m Willcocks with taxed amount 6.6

1785 Brunswig Township, Berks Co: William Wilcocks, taxed 14.3

(Berks County Tax Lists, Pennsylvania Archives, 3rd Series, Volume 18 on CD by Retrospect Publishing, 2002. )   

 

1784 August 27 - Rowan County, North Carolina abstract (very faded, worn, some lines partly torn off):  Indenture between William Hall of Rowan County, Yeomen of the first part and William Willcockson and James McCullough, Gentlemen of the Township of Oly, Berks County, Pennsylvania, of the other part are jointly bound unto a certain John Burkholder of Lampeter Township, Lancaster County, Pennsylvania in and by a certain obligation…sum of 320 pounds lawful money of Pennsylvania gold or silver (with) payment of 160 pounds money on the 27th day  of May next__, the date for the lawful titles…which (will) discharge the recited obligations…(when) the said William Hall (is) paid by the William Willcockson and James McCullough. 

 

Granted, sold (1) 496 acres and (2) 240 acres (location and State never given) with houses, buildings, 4 slaves, 2 waggons and team with gears, all the stock, cattle, household __, furniture unto William Willcockson and James McCullough, their heirs and assigns to only the use…as tenants in common and not a joint tenants….

 

York County, Pennsylvania…date of forgoing mortgage…William Hall came before me – George Stake and acknowledged the said indenture of mortgage, recorded 27 August 1784.  (Rowan County DB 10/01)

 

            Comment: It appears William Hall purchased both properties from John Burkholder.  Hall then leased the property to Willcockson and McCullough until they could purchase it based on a timed payment.  In the meantime, they were tenants.  

 

1785 Berks County, Pennsylvania: 12 July 1785 will of James Boone, Sr. of Exeter Township, Berks County, Pennsylvania named wife Ann, various children now living including Rachel Wilcockson.  Proved 17 September 1785

(From website on Berks County wills for Boones)

 

1785 Berks County, Pennsylvania: 5 October 1785 Will of John Boone of Exeter Township, Berks County, Pennsylvania named nieces to include “Rachel Willcockson, wife of William Willcockson.”  Entered 30 March 1787. 

(From website on Berks County wills for Boones)

 

1787 Rowan County Tax List of Captain Pearson: 

            Samuel Wilcoxon - 3 males 21 - 60, 1 male <21 or 60+, 3 females. Next to him is

            John Wilcoxon – 3 males 21 - 60, 1 male <16 or 60+, 3 females; two entries away is William Wilcoxon - 1 male and 1 female 0-20 or 60+.   Ages given for William Wilcoxon are not compatible with his 1790 U.S. Census as noted below.   It is possible someone else was living on his property. 

(Rowan County, North Carolina Tax Lists 1757-1800, by Jo White Linn, 1995.)  

     

1788 September 12 - Rowan County:  William Hall of Rowan County, North Carolina deeded to William Wilcoxson of Berks County, State of Pennyslvania...for 244 pounds current money, tract on waters of Bear Creek...to William Frobanks(?)...303 acres....  (Signed) William Hall (seal), Witness: Elizabeth ("x") Welch, John ("x") Wilcockson.  Entered __ May 1792.  (DB11/606)

 

1790 September 13: “Then William Wilcoxson and his family moved for North Carolina.”  (From an old Boone family record found in Reading, Pa.)

(The Boone Family, by Hazel Atterbury Spraker, 1922, page 48.)

     

1790 U.S. Census of Rowan County, North Carolina:  William Wilcoxon has household of 3 males 21+, 2 males under 21 or over 60, 2 females, 2 slaves.  Adjacent to his name on the census list is John Wilcoxson, Sr. and John Wilcoxson, Jr.

 

            Comment: Notice that there is only one William Wilcoxson listed in 1790 Rowan County and another in 1790 Wilkes County.  So far none can be found for Berks County.  This adds evidence that Rowan’s William Wilcoxson is a son of John Wilcoxson and not Wilkes County’s William Wilcoxson, son of Isaac Wilcoxson - deceased.

 

1793 Rowan County Petitions to partition the county:  William Willcockson, John Willcoxson next to each other.   Also signing is John Willcoxson, Jr.

 

1794 March 16 - Rowan County:  Joseph Maxwell of Rowan County deeded to William Willcockson of the same county...for 80 pounds...tract of land in county...133 acres...on waters of Bear Creek...to Thomas M__...to Rees line...to corner of Joseph Rencheurs-? Line.  (Signed): Joseph Maxwell, Witnesses: John Rees, Thomas Welch.  Entered August 1796.  (DB14/10). 

 

1795 April 10 - Rowan County: William Wilcoxon sold to John Reese, both of Rowan County, 393 acres as by the original grant, for 375 pounds, a tract of land lying in Rowan County on the waters of Bear Creek bounded by William Frohock, Thomas Maxwell, John Reese and meandering the creek.  (Signed William Willcockson (seal) and Rachel Willcockson (seal).  Witnesses for John Clement, Charles Burroughs, and Thomas "x" Dagley.  Entered May term 1795. 

(DB13/960, typescript court house copy)

 

1795 July 20 - Rowan County:  Daniel Lewis to William Wilcockson, both of Rowan County, 150 acres for 150 pounds on the waters of Bear Creek.  Signed: Daniel ("D") Lewis.  Witnesses: John Roland and Samuel Kaufman.  Entered August 1801.   (DB17/696)

 

            On this same date, John Willcockson deeded 30 acres to Daniel Lewis

           

1797: An old Boone family record found in Reading, Pennsylvania noted “Rachel Wilcoxson came from North Carolina to see us.”

(The Boone Family by Hazel Atterbury Spraker, 1922)   

           

1798 February 26 - Rowan County:  John Willcockson of Rowan County, North Carolina deeded to William Willcockson for 250 pounds, estimation of 160 acres on Bear Creek including John Rowland’s line, now Edward Parkers to Jacob Keller corner.  Witnesses were Samuel Willcockson and Squire Willcockson.  Signed: John ("x") Willcockson.  (DB19:256)

1800 Rowan County Tax Fee on Stud Horses:  William Wilcoxon – 1 pound tax

(Rowan County, North Carolina Tax Lists 1757-1800, Jo White Lynee 1995)

             

1800 U.S. Census of Rowan County, North Carolina:  William Wilcoxon has now a household of one male and female 0-10, 1 male and female 16-26, 1 male and female 45+, 2 slaves

 

1806 May 12 - Rowan County: William Wilcockson of Rowan County deeded to Jacob Holfer of the same county 100 acres for $250 on the waters of Bear Creek in the forks of the Yadkin, land of 262 acres granted by the State of North Carolina to Samuel Bryant-? and (sold) to William Wilcockson.   Signed: William Wilcockson.   Witnesses: Samuel __ and David McQuire.  Entered August Court 1807.   (DB21/95)

 

            This apparently is the last Rowan County deed by William Wilcockson.

 

1809 March 15 - Montgomery County, Kentucky:  Will of John Hodges is witnessed by William Willcockson.

 

1810 U.S. Census of Montgomery County, Kentucky:   William Wilcoxson with 2 males 0-10; 1 male 10-16, 2 males and 2 females 16-26, 1 male and 1 female 45+, 2 slaves.

 

1815 Fayette County, Kentucky: Be it rememebered that Daniel Bryant, have gone security in ___ bond for sum of $140.02 damages and costs for William Wilcoxson, that said Bryant wishing…(security from)…has paid $120 for my use and benefit, otherwise I, William Wilcoxson...sell...unto Daniel Bryant one dark chesnut sorrel shed? horse, one bay mare, one sorrel, one sorell stud colt, and Baty colt…to be put…into possession of William Bryant as trustee for his father Daniel Bryant who said William Bryant is to have possession.  (DB M/115.)

 

1820 U.S. Census of Fayette County, Kentucky; William Willcoxon: 1 female 0-10; 2 males 10-16, 1 male 16-26, 1 female 26-45, 1 male and 1 female 45+, 2 slaves.

 

Can We Estimate the Birth Date of William Wilcoxson? 

 

            Comment: One interpretation of the 1787 tax list might suggest William Wilcoxon was less than age 21, i.e. born 1767 or later.  The 1790 census might have another family living with him and limits age estimation.   The 1800 census indicates William and his wife are about age 45 or older.  That would place their birth dates at or before 1755.   

 

Children of William Wilcoxson, son of John Wilcoxson

Help is Needed Here

 

1.  Rachel Wilcoxson, born __, and little is known about her.  She had one known son named “Israel Wilcoxen” (~1822 to 1898 Clark County, Kentucky), who married 1st to Elizabeth Atkinson and 2nd to Julia Ann Chism.  Children of Israel Wilcoxen and Julia Ann Chism were (a) Rachel Mildred Wilcox who married James William Chism, (b) James Wesley Wilcox who married Susan Isabell Crowe, (c) Charles A. Wilcox who married Georgia? Anne Hampton, (d) Sarah Frances Wilcox who married Johnc Wesley Fitzpatrick, (e) Virginia Wilcox who married Simon Shearer, (f) Jasper Wilcox who married Fannie J. Brown, (g) David Wilcox who married Sarah Jones, (h) Nancy Wilcox who married Geroge W. Conley, (i) Dillard Wilcox who married Mary Lizzie Adams; died in Spanish American War.  Most descendants reported to still reside in Clark County.  With Israel’s 2nd marriage, surname was changed to Wilcox.

From Clark County KyGenWeb, Wilcox Family of Clark County, Kentucky sumitteed by Carolyn Chism and pointed out be Judy Brown, email courtesy 2/19/2012.      

 

(Questionably) XIII. David Wilcockson/Wilcox “I” was born 22 October 1742 and died 25 February 1834 at age 91 years, per garve stone at Gibsonville Cemetery, Giles County, Tennessee.  David married Kezia (Cassiah), maiden name suggested to be Cope, but lacking evidence.   Kezia, wife of David Wilcockson “I”, was born 16 July 1761 and died 18 December, Gibsonville Cemetery, per grave stone.  See their separate chapter for more details.

           

Part Four

Old Historical Wilcoxson Letter:

 

A.  Letter by William Wilcoxson to Lyman Draper, postmarked December 25, (1863) Greensburg, Kentucky, answering questions.  From Draper Manuscript Collection, courtesy of Wisconsin Historical Society, Series C, Volume 23, #57.  Topic:  Daniel Boone.  The manuscript does not state who his parents were.  This writer believes this is William Wilcoxson (1789-1874), who is the son of Daniel Wilcoxson, grandson of John + Sarah Wilcoxson.

 

December 23, 1863

Dear Sir:

            I received your letter inquiries.  I have heard my father say a great deal about Boone’s acts as a soldier, as they were old hunters together, but the particulars now seem dim to me:  One only seems fresh in mind – that is, Boone’s daughter and two of Mr. Callaway’s at Boonesborough, took a canoe across the river to hunt grapes.  Five Indians captured them.  The girls knowing their fathers would follow them would gore(?) their high heel shoes in the ground and make all the sign they could  The Indians would shake the tomahawk over their heads – the girls holding their heads to them and saying “hit.”  The Indians would laugh and say “good sojer.”  They then put them on a horse, when they would fall off, and pretend they couldn’t ride.  The Indians would again shake the tomahawk’s over their heads.  The girls would hold their heads, and tell them “hit.”  The Indians would laugh and say, “Good Sojer.”  Between sunset and dark, (after) they camped on a small creek, the fathers crawled up the creek opposite to them.  Three of the Indians were blowing up the fire and two getting wood, and the girls sitting on the log.  They fired on them, killed the three at the fire, and recaptured the girls, and got them home safely.  Yours, Wm. Wilcoxson

 

Part Five:

Who is John Willcoxen of 1806-1809 Greenup County, Kentucky?

 

1806 Greenup County, Kentucky Tax:  John Wilcoxen

1807 August 5 - Greenup County Court: John Willcoxen versus Richard Taylor, Jr.

1809 October 17 – Greenup County Court: John Willcoxen versus Richard Taylor Jr.  There is an injunction to stay proceedings on case.  In a conversation Willcoxen had with Taylor in 1806 concerning a tract of land above the mouth of Little Sandy which Taylor said he owned and offered to sell to Willcoxen.  Taylor said the title was indisputable.  (Willcoxen had just lately moved to the state and wished to buy some land on which to settle his numerous family and agreed to buy the 1000 acres.)  Taylor knew the land had a prior claim by Abram Buford, heir to Thos. Buford.  (Benj. Euland lives on the land now, under Buford’s claim.).

 

            Deposition of Andrew Hood and Benj. Ulin, 28 November 1807, both say they heard Willcoxen agree to run the chance of losing the land.

           

            Deposition of Jesse B. Boone, 28 November 1807, says a few days after Mr. Willcoxen landed at Mr. Nichols’, he and Mr. Nichols called at his (Boone’s) house on their way up the river to see the two tracts belongs to Taylor and asked him to show them the corners.

Talley’s Northeastern Kentucky Papers, by William M. Talley, 1971, pages 142 and 144 as found in the Burton Collection, Detroit Mi Public Library.

           

Comment from this writer: I am now suspicious that this John Wilcoxen belongs to the Maryland line, but further evidence is needed.