Nathaniel Christmas was a Capt. in Rev. War; In 1781 he and his brother Richard were paroled by Cornwallis from British capture and later lived in Mississippi.The following is from National Archives, Rev. War Records.
"To the honorable Lieutenant General Leslie, or to the commanding officer of the British forces in the state of South Carolina.
Captain Nathaniel Christmas has permission to pass from hence to the British garrison at Charles Town, for the purpose of effecting the exchange, Captain Richard Christmas, who is a prisoner of war to the British arms, for Captain James Osborn, who is a prisoner of war to the American arms, which said exchange is hereby proposed. This being agreed to, the said Captain Osborn is relieved and exchanged, the said Captain Nathaniel Christmas is to pass under the sanction of the flag.
Given at Point Pleasant, this _____ day of June, 1782.
John Belter, U.S.A., General. Hillsborough District. State of North Carolina."
Abstracts of Wills Recorded in Orange Co., NC 1800-1850, B-271; Nathaniel Christmas & Reubin Smith are witness to Deed of Gift from Lewis Kirk to his granddaughter, Martha Williamson Kirk, both of Orange Co. Dec. 3, 1793; proved Feb. 1794.
[WHT: I believe this is the Nathaniel in Wilkes Co., GA during the middle to latter part of the 1780's]
Source: Wilkes Co. Deed Book, Vol. 11 or 12, p. 82; "Early Records of Georgia", Vol. I, Wilkes Co. by Davidson, p. 32, 65, 243, 248, 270, 273, etc. On p. 248, Feb. 13, 1786, Nathaniel Christmas gives Power of Attorney to friend, Robert Christmas, who I think is his brother.Around 1790, it appears Nathaniel Christmas returned to Warren Co., NC; mentioned in some records in 1790's (Mary Hinton Kerr's "Abstracts of Warren Co., N.C.)
Nathaniel Christmas purchased 47 acres from William Strudwick in Orange Co., NC in 1795, adjoining brother, Charles Christmas. Sold 2 acres to Augustus Benton in 1797. Nathaniel & Mary Christmas sold land to Thomas Durham, Orange Co., NC, in Nov. 1797.
Nathaniel Christmas returned to Mississippi in latter part of 1790's or early 1800's; mentioned in his brother's, Charles, 1811 will, Warren Co., N.C. as being in MS. this Nathaniel moved around a lot; records show him to be in NC, GA, AL, MS and other places. In 1803, was supposed to be at Christmas landing on the Tombigbee River with family; children listed at that time or later: Charles, J.V., Nathaniel, and Thomas, [WHT: I have no proof of these children.]
Mississippi Census, 1805-90
Name: J. V. Christmas
State: MS
County: Mississippi Territory
Township: Petitioners
Year: 1803
Page: 284
Database: MS Early Census IndexNatt Christmas of Washington Co. MS. (now AL.) sold for $30.00, a tract of land to Lorinzo Dowe on May 12, 1803; Deed Bk. A, page 51. Natt Christmas sold to Charles Christmas [WHT: his brother] a negro slave for $450.00 on Aug. 11, 1803; Deed Bk. A, page 120, Washington Co., MS (now AL).
Source: "Washington Co., Alabama, Earliest Deed Book" compiled by Elizabeth Wood Thomas, pages 49, 53 and 117. In 1802 Nathaniel Christmas and two others were bound to Governor of Mississippi for $2000.00. This obligation was to allow them to collect taxes in Washington Co.
From records of "The Choctaw Trading Post, St. Stephen, Mississippi Territory, 1803-1815" by Jean Strickland, Nathaniel Christmas owned and operated a large boat. In March, April and May of 1803, Nathaniel received pay, per voucher from U.S. Govt., for hire of his large boat.
Nathaniel Christmas was listed in 1810 Census of Washington Co., MS Territory, now Alabama. 1 male over 21; 1 male under 21 & 1 female over 21; 13 slaves.
Source: "Washington Co., Miss. Territory Tax Rolls, 1803-1816" by Jean Strickland. Nathaniel Christmas was on Tax Roll from 1803 to 1811. In 1803, Natt Christmas had the following property listed for taxes: 100 acres on Nannahubba Bluff; 8 black polls; 100 acres including the Doctors old field; 100 acres on the east side of the Tombigby; 100 acres on the east side of Tombigby adjoining Dupree; total tax -$6.00. 1804 shows him with 9 slaves, 2 horses and 27 cows. 1805 shows him with 640 acres first quality land in Nanna Hubba Island with 65 acres improved thereon. Assessed $3.00 per acre or value of $1920. 200 acres 3rd quality land on Nanna Hubba Bluff with 3 cabins thereon; assessed at $1.50 per acre. This continues on for several years with Noel being on tax rolls in 1813.
Source: "Probate Court Records, Clark Co., Alabama, Book A, 1813-1828." Nathaniel Christmas is listed as witness, estate of James Goodwin, May 1818.
Source: "Clark Co., Alabama Records, 1814-1885" by Marilyn Davis Barefield, p. 83. Nathaniel Christmas is listed as J.Q. (Justice of the Quorum) on Jan. 26, 1820 concerning a tract of land to be divided.
On April 7, 1820, Clark Co., AL, Nathaniel Christmas declares Wommoack Blankenship served in the Virginia Line between 1776 and 1782.
[WHT: Sometimes the information is in front of you, and you just do not see it. I thought it was a mistake when Atkins McLemore, referred to my son Nathaniel Christmas, think he was referring to son, Nathaniel McLemore. Ginger Christmas-Beattie figure this out, and after looking at Atkins' will again, I agree that Nathaniel Christmas is married to Mary McLemore.]
[WHT: See son's notes.]
"Early Records of Georgia, Vol. 1, Wilkes Co." by Grace Gillam Davidson p. 57: father was Felix Gilbert, his will list her brothers: Felix Heywood & William Grant Gilbert.
133. John Robert Christmas-107
Source: Wilkes Co., GA. Deed Book, Vol. 11 or 12, p. 207: he was under the age of 21 in 1813; makes reference to grandfather, John, who died in 1783, Warren (Orange) Co., N.C.
Also "Early Records of Georgia, Vol. 1, Wilkes Co." by Davidson; p. 228. Source: "Index to Volunteer Soldiers in Indian Wars & Disturbances 1815-1858, transcribed by V. White. John R. Christmas served in Little's 2nd Reg. of GA Mil. in Seminole War of 1817-1818 as a private.
Middle names could be spelled Pealor.
[WHT: Source of following information, Gayle Zent, a descendant, via e-mail, Jan. 16 1999.]
I looked into your web site as suggested. I can fill in some info about John Christmas McLemore. He was b. 4/1/1790 & d 1864..he is buried in Elmwood cemetery in Memphis TN (my husband's family plot location). He married Elizabeth Donelson 4/6/1815, she was b 11/22/1790 died 7/2/1830. John Christmas McLemore's parents were Nathaniel McLemore b 1755 & Ann (either Peebles or Pealor, I've seen it both ways-maybe u can clarify) Christmas 1/28/1766 - ?. Nathaniel McLemore's parents were Atkins McLemore 1724-1791 & Sara Jones b? died 1808..Atkins McLemore's parents were Abraham Macklemore (McLemore name spelling changed) b 1660 in Scotland died 1736 in Bertie Co NC & Mary Young b. 1661 in Scotland, died 2/1737 in Bertie Co, NC .
1800 Census, Orange Co., NC, 00010-10001-06, M-32 034 552 list James & family.[WHT: His children were named in the will of his brother, Charles Christmas; dated 1811, Orange Co., N.C.]
James is also mention as being in Wilkes Co., GA. along with his brothers, Robert ("The Wilkes Papers" by Davis, p. 61) and Nathaniel. "Abstracts of Granville Co., N.C." 1746-1808, Published by Joseph Watson; WB-4, 136, 137 & 138; James witnesses the will of Henry Graves on Nov. 27, 1797. Another Source: Nancy ShieldsOrange Co., NC Deed Book # 8, p. 38: April 13, 1799. James & Elizabeth Christmas sold land to James Phillips.
Orange Co., NC Deed Book # 13, p. 38: June 24, 1799. James & Elizabeth Christmas along with Joseph Courtney sold land to John Hagg.
[WHT: The following information provided by Ginger Christmas-Beattie.]
Orange County Deed Book 4 p.421 State of North Carolina, Orange County
This Indenture made this twenty-fifth day of December in the year of Our Lord one thousand seven hundred and ninety. Between James Christmas of the county of Orange County and the State of North Carolina of the one part and Thomas Howard of the county and state of the other part. Witnesseth that for and in consideration of the sum of fifty £ (pounds) current money of the state aforesaid to the said James Christmas for and in consideration of one hundred pounds current money to him in hand paid before the ensiling and delivery of these presents the right whereof the said James Christmas doth hereby acknowledge, hath granted, bargained and sold and by these presents doth grant, bargain and sell unto the said Thomas Howard his heirs and assigns forever all that tract or parcel of land situate lying and being in the county aforesaid. Beginning at a hickory in the fork of the Moccasin and Clear Creeks running up the meanders of the said Clear Creek north seven degrees east seventy-five chains to a turkey oak on the branch of the said creek then south twenty-seven chains to a white oak then south sixty chains and a half to a black jack then south forty-five west fifteen chains to a turkey oak on the branch of Moccasin then down the said Moccasin as it meanders to the first stake containing in all two hundred and fourteen acres more or less together with reversion and reversions, remainder and remainders, rents and profits of every part thereof unto the said Thomas Howard his heirs, executors, administrators and assigns forever and the said James Christmas his heirs against the claim or claims of any other person or persons whatsoever do warrant and defend the above mentioned land and premises unto the said Thomas Howard hi s heirs and assigns forever. In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed my seal the day and year first above written.
James Christmas {seal}
Signed and delivered in presence of: James Roach & Nathaniel McLemore
Orange County February Term 1791 The execution of the within deed was duly proved in open court by the oath of James Roach one of the subscribing witnesses thereunto and ordered to be registered. Samuel Benton
142. Susan Christmas-2036
1850 Census, Alamance Co., NC; Southern Dist.; Dwelling 112 list Susan Craig, age 50; Mary Chrismas, 52 & Riziah Roberson, 16.
145. Nancy Christmas-49
Could have married Hugh Faucett, Dec. 14, 1836; "Marriage Records of Orange Co., N.C."
1800 Census, Orange Co., NC, 21010-10000-00, M-32 034 555, list Charles & family.
He was a Colonel in Orange Co., NC Militia. Other Sources: Shields' book on Orange Co. and Kerr's on Warren Co., NC. His obit was in the Raleigh Register, and was referred to as Doctor.
[WHT: reviewed the original will and estate file at NC Archive; estate file is rather large, compiled of a large number of notes to and from the estate, with Richard Christmas & William Moore being involved in collection; Thomas Brewer quit as one of the executors. File also included inventory records, but did not find any disbursements to those mention in will; was looking for some reference that the children mentioned in the will were his. I have not been able to determine the relationship of Susan Smith & Nancy Whitlock to Charles, might be wives or, friends; estate records did not show disbursements. NOTE - for information purposes, I will show them as children of Charles, but I do not know this to be true.]
He was a Colonel in Orange Co., NC Militia. Other Sources: Shields' book on Orange Co. and Kerr's on Warren Co., NC.
Below is my transcription of his will - best effort: Will dated, Sept. 1, 1811; Probated Feb. 1812 Orange Co., NC:
Will of Charles Christmas:
The last will and testament of me the subscriber Charles Christmas, reposing confidence in my Creator to whom I recommend my soul, he having given it. I Charles Christmas of the state of North Carolina make this my last will and testament that is to say:
I give and bequeath to my executor herein after appointed, Richard Christmas, Thomas Brewer and William Moore, my land lying in Orange County, (Viz) between two and three hundred acres in the ? between Strudwick's lower and middle tracts adjoining John Minniss and others, also two hundred acres lying on the south side of Haw River adjoining lands of Jonathan Lenoby? and others, also I give my said Executor, my negroes Davey, Simon, Henry, Anderson, Aggee and Ben, and all my movable effects including my stock of every kind and also outstanding debts, which are considerable. (Viz) one on my brother Natt Christmas of the Mississippi Territory amounting at this time principal and interest to upwards of seven hundred dollars, a note for the principal of which was four hundred and sixty dollars was given me the ninth of August 1803, and lost by fire when my Mother's house burnt and the rest of my debts that may be in notes and book accounts, in my chest, at my decease -- paying there out my just debts, and the expense of my funeral, In Trust as to the said lands, negroes, movables, stock, debts, VC. for the rising, clothing and schooling of six children of Sara Smith's (Viz) John, Charles, Nancy, Pathency, William and Susannah and the raising, clothing and schooling of a child of Nancy Whitlocks (Viz) Rebeckah; my will is that the property given in trust to my Executors as aforesaid the Survivor or Survivors of them to make use of it in the way they think most advisable for profit, either by leasing the lands, hiring the Negroes out, continuing them on the plantation I now live on which is leased until the first day of January 1815 or selling the whole of the property bequeathed, or given in trust as aforesaid, and that the monies arriving from method they peruse, to put out at interest, or any other way they may think proper, and distribute it equally for the children aforesaid, as they may stand in need, and if any surplus should remain, after the youngest comes of age, or they my Executors are of the opinion there will be a surplus, they may if they think proper, give to each as they arrive to lawful age what they think proper, So as they believe as much will remain for each when they arrive at the same, or make an equal divided, when the youngest arrives at age if any property should remain.I nominate, constitute and appoint Richard Christmas, Thomas Brewer, and William Moore, Executors to this my last will and testament requesting them the said Richard Christmas, Thomas Brewer, and William Moore that they will give what assistance they conveniently can to Sarah Smith and Nancy Whitlock, mothers of the before mentioned children, and see that the children are well brought up thus placing confidence in their friendship. I hereunto subscribe my name and fix my seal to these presents, as my last will and testament. September 1st 1811. Charles Christmas (seal)
Test William Moore
Mentioned in will of Thomas Christmas. Probably married Nancy Jackson in Louisa Co., VA.; had daughter named Elizabeth Jackson Christmas. This could be his will dated Sep 16, 1771, Proved Oct 14, 1771 in Louisa Co., VA. Will Book 2:120[WHT: My thanks to Elizabeth Harris for providing the following information.]
Louisa Co. VA Will Book 2, p. 120: Will of John Christmas, Dated 16 Sep. 1771, rcd. 14 Oct. 1771. Dau: Elizabeth Jackson Christmas. Wife Nancy Christmas. Exors: wife Nancy Christmas, friends Waddy Thomson and Thomas Johnson, Sr. Signed, John Christmas. Wit: Ann Jones (her X mark), Thomas Linthicum, Thomas Jackson Jr.
Will Book 2, p. 121. Bond of Waddy Thomson & Thos. Jackson, Exorts. of est. of John Christmas. Bondsmen: John Bullock, Tm. Thomson. Dated & rcd. 14 Oct. 1771. Amt. £1000. Wit. John Nelson. Signed Waddy Thomson, Thomas Jackson, John Bullock, Wm. Thomson.
Will Book 2, p. 141. Account of sales of estate of John Christmas. Mentions: Moses Going, Thos. Thomson, Jos. Wadkins, Geo. Gibson, Rice Hughes, Nich. Rice, Wm. Hogan Jr., Wm. Whitlock, Rchd. Johnson, Rchd. Thomson, Waddy Thomson, Jas. Michie, Jas. Craddock, Thos. Bind, Thos. King, Wm. Sargent, John Watson, Maj. John Johnson, Wm. Jackson, Geo. Thomasson Sr., Thos. Phillips, Nancy Christmas, Wm. Phillips, Rchd. Phillips Sr., David Chisholm, Wm. Shelton, Wm. Pettit, Wm. Lipscomb, Eliz. Paulett, Jos. Hawkins, Thos. Jackson, Wm. Thomson.
Will Book 2, p. 143, Appraisement of est. of John Christmas, dated 11 Nov. 1771. Apprs. Wm. Lipscomb, Nich Gentry Jr., Anthony Gholston. Rcd. 12 Jul 1772.
[WHT: The following information on was provided by Barbara Howe, a descendant, Jan. 1999.]Served in VA State Militia - Rev. War.
Samuel served several tours of duty during the Revolutionary War in Virginia. In the spring of 1776 he served as a private for 3 months. In 1777 he was once again called into service as a militia man for two years, his job was to guard prisoners. After obtaining leave of that office he enlisted at the beginning of 1780 as an artifficer and held that position for about one year. As an artifficer he made coffins and repaired wagons and carts. In about1810 Samuel and his family moved to Sumner Co., TN.
[WHT: My thanks to Louella McDonald Bernhardt, who provided information on Thomas Higgason, Nancy Ann White and their descendants, by email in October, 2000.]Thomas Higgason was in the Virginia Militia in the Revolutionary War
THOMAS HIGGASON
SHELBY COUNTY
PRIVATE - SERGEANT
VIRGINIA MILITIA
$55.33 ANNUAL ALLOWANCE
$165.99 AMOUNT RECEIVED
MARCH 29, 1833 PENSION STARTED
AGE 73[WHT: The following information was from the files of Steven Higgason, and provided by Ginger Christmas-Beattie.]
He appeared on the census of 1820 at Green Co., KY; 1 male 10-16 3 males 16-26 1 male 26-45 1 male 45- up 3 females under 26 1 female over 46 1 slave. He was in 1832 at Shelby Co., KY.197 He left a will on 6 Dec 1833 at Shelby Co., KY; The records of Shelby County, Kentucky contain the following Will made by Thomas Higgason in June, 1833 and probated in June, 1836.The Will of Thomas Higgason; Will Book 10 P.214 Shelby Co. KY 6-12-1833
In the name of God, Aman. I Thomas Higgason of the above named state and county do make this my last will and testament, revoking all others.
Item first. I give to my son Thomas C. Higgason 125 acres of land including my dwelling house. I also give him my household and kitchen furniture. I also give him a brood mare (my Emily and her colt). I give to my son Suprey Higgason the balance of the land say 75 acres. I give to my grandson Albert G. Dupuy one Negro girl names Catherine but in case of his death without heirs it is in case revert to my legatees. I give my Negro woman Caty her immediate freedom at my death and $15.00. I give to my daughter Malinda Ann Vawter one dollar. I wish and will the rest of my estate shall be divided between my sons Suprey and Thomas and William by sale or otherwise. In testimony whereof I put my hands and seal this day written above it wit: Ben McGrath and William Allen. I find I have omitted my executors and hereby appoint my son Thomas C. Higgason and Ebenezer Duprey my executors.
53. John Christmas-9
[WHT: Reviewed original will & estate records in NC Archives. Will dated April 29, 1781; Probated July 1784. The following is my best efforts at transcribing.]Will of John Christmas:
In the name of God Amen I John Christmas of the County of Waren & State of North Carolina being sick and weak in body but of perfect mind & memory thanks be given to Almighty God for the same ,& calling to mind the uncertainty of this Transitory life and being willing to settle my worldly affairs in Order, do make this my last will and Testament in manner & form following: Imprimis? I commend my soul to God who gave it hoping through the Death & ______ of Jesus Christ my Savior is to be made partaker of the never fading Joys of Immortality at the day of Resurrection, and as for what Temporal Estate it hath pleased God to bestow on me I give and bequeath the same in manner and form following, that is to say First I give & bequeath unto my brother Richard Christmas one black three year old horse Coult? by the name of ginger & also one sow & Shoats if he lives to come back from the war & if he never returns to go to the use of the rest of the Estate.
Item I give and bequeath unto my Son Thomas Christmas and to his heirs and assigns forever all my lands that I am possessed With, if dying without heir then to be equally divided between my two daughters Sarah Christmas and Rebecah Christmas And if either of these should die without heir then to belong to the other one of my daughters, And all of the residue of my Estate I lend to my Dear beloved wife Middleton Christmas consisting of negros, horses, cattle, hogs and stock of all kind And household furniture, until my daughter Sarah Christmas comes to the years of eighteen or marriage and then to be divided into Equal parts between my wife and children & then my daughter Sarah Christmas to be possessed with her part of the estate, and then the rest of the estate to be in the possession of my wife Middleton Christmas until my daughter Rebecah Christmas comes to the years of eighteen or marriage and then to be equally divided as formily and she to possess her part of the estate belonging to her, and then the rest of the Estate to remain in the possession of my wife Middleton Christmas until my Son Thomas Christmas come to the years of eighteen then the estate to be equally divided between my wife & son and if die without heir then to fall to his sisters, Sarah and Rebeccah Christmas, Memorandum Viz the true Intent and Meaning of my lending my estate to my wife Middleton Christmas was to bring up the Children upon
Item It is my will and desire that my Estate be not appraised and lastly I do Constitute and Appoint that William Myrick and Daniell Huff Executors of this my last will & Testament hereby revoking and making Void and null all former will or wills heretofore made. Confirmed this and none other to be my last will and Testament . In Testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and seal this 29th day of April 1721. Sealed and delivered in presence of
Joseph Mangum Jurats John Christmass Daniele Ball (mark) Thomas Garriott Jurats
Warren County July Court 1784: This last Will and Testament of John Christmas, deceased was proved by the Oaths of Jo. Magum & Tho. Garrett Witnesses thereto and on motion the same was ordered to be recorded, and Letters Testamentary granted to Wm Myrick who qualify accordingly. Test M L Johnson tete
Jan. 15, 1785: Inventory of estate of John Christmas by William Myrick.
Dec. 23, 1794 - Feb Ct. 1795. Daughter, Sarah receives her share of John's estate.
Dec. 31, 1796. Daughter, Rebecca receives her share of John's estate.
Shares of estate of John Christmas allocated to Thomas Christmas & James Allen; Nov. Ct. 1798.
[WHT: children's age estimated based on when they received their share of father's estate.]
[WHT: Info. Only - source: From a letter by Mrs. W. E. (Jane) Christmas of Savannah, GA to John F. Christmas of MD. Middleton parents were William Myrick & Sarah Person; after John died, she married John Allen and moved to Chester, SC with Thomas, Sarah & Rebecca.]Warren Co., NC Wills: Bk. # 8, p. 86. Will of William Myrick. Mentions daughters: Middleton Allen, Sarah Myrick, Mary Harris, Nancy Allen & Betsy Myrick. Sons: William Myrick, Francie Myrick, Richard Myrick, George Myrick & Owen Myrick. Executors: James Allen & Gideon H. Macon. Dated Mar. 20, 1795; May Court, 1795.
p. 95. John & James Allen are mentions as purchasers at estate sale of William Myrick; Aug. Ct. 1795.
p. 251. John, James & G. Allen are mentions as purchasers at estate sale of William Myrick; Feb. Ct. 1796.
170. Sarah Christmas-43
Warren Co., NC Will Book 8, # 31: Feb. Ct. 1795. Allocation of share of estate of Jno Christmass, deceased, to Sarah Christmas, legatee.
172. Thomas Christmas-11
[WHT: A Thomas Christmas' will dated Nov. 25, 1799; John Allen, administrator. Estate of Thomas Christmas, deceased; Nov. 25, 1799; John Allen Adm. Bond for 2000 pounds to William Johnson. Security George Myrick & John Best. I think this is the Thomas.]
[WHT: Originally I had this Thomas as a son of Thomas Christmas (Thomas - Thomas) and Mary Ann Horn. Now I think there is no generation of Thomas Christmas & Mary Ann Horn, as the dates seem to be very tight. Also, considering Philip Norfleet's analysis, which seems to show that Mary Ann was a Hillard and not a Horn. I could very easily be wrong on this, and would be happy to be proven so.]Warren Co., NC D-B 3, p. 275: Aug. 8, 1769. William Dickerson of Bute Co., to Thomas Christmas (s), son of Thomas Christmas, deceased, 40 pds. Va. money for 440 acres in Bute Co. on BS Thomas Martins Creek, being remaining part of a 680 acre Earl Granville grant Feb 6, 1762. 240 acres having been sold to William Moore. Wit: John Christmas, William Moore. Aug. Ct. 1769. Rec. Jan. 2, 1770. [Based on this deed, if he had to be 18 or 21 years of age, there could be an extra generation.]
[WHT: reviewed and copied the original Will of a Thomas Christmas at the NC Archives; appears to be this Thomas.] Warren Co., NC; Will dated April 7 or 17, 1816; Proved May Ct. 1816. The will mentions several young children, but does not give names. Wants to keep the estate together, until youngest child becomes of age. States that he wants his mother-in-law, Sally Horn, maintained out of my estate, provided his wife, Mary Ann, does not object. Wife, Mary Ann Christmas is adm. Wit: Thomas Power.
Birthdates of his three children is from Shirl McNeely.
[WHT: The David L. Horn will, shown later, is a good documentation source, but to fully understand the will, you must know the Hilliard connection to the Christmas family. The following is a brief report on Sarah Norfleet which shows the Hilliard connection, accompanied with some analysis provided by Philip Norfleet in messages dated Nov. 10, 1997 & Dec. 1, 1997; documentation by Ginger Christmas, after the will of David Horn, is additional proof of the Hilliard connection.]SARAH NORFLEET #2110, b. ABT 1762, Nansemond, Co., VA. She married (1) ELIAS HILLIARD #2109, ABT 1780, d. BEF 1790, Granville Co., NC. She married (2) WILLIAM HORN #2111, ABT 1790, in Northampton Co., NC, b. Nansemond, Co., VA, d. BEF Apr 1819, NC. SARAH died AFT 1824.
I.ELIZABETH HILLIARD #2108, (daughter of ELIAS HILLIARD #2109 and SARAH NORFLEET #2110) b. ABT 1781. She married WILLIAM GREEN JR. #61, 16 Dec 1797, in Franklin Co., NC, b. 22 Aug 1772, Warren Co., NC, (son of WILLIAM GREEN #47 and MARY ELIZABETH CHRISTMAS #20).
II.MARY ANN HILLIARD #1501, (daughter of ELIAS HILLIARD #2109 and SARAH NORFLEET #2110) b. ABT 1783. She married THOMAS CHRISTMAS #341, 22 Jul 1801, b. AFT 1750, Warren Co., NC, (son of THOMAS CHRISTMAS #7 and TEMPERANCE WHITLOCK #8) d. 1816, Warren Co., NC.
A.RICHARD CHRISTMAS #340, b. 1805, Warren Co., NC. He married (1) MARY EMAILINE SMITH #1445, 12 Sep 1832, in Williamson Co., TN, b. 1815, Williamson Co., TN, (daughter of ALEXANDER SMITH #5470 and SARAH JANE LEIPER #5471) d. 22 Jan 1842, Washington Co., MS. He married (2) MARY ELIZABETH PHILLIPS #1444, 7 Oct 1852, in Episcopal Church, Louisville, KY, b. 1834, (daughter of DAVID B. PHILLIPS #2203 and ANN #2204). RICHARD died 1878, MS.
B.HENRY "Harry" CHRISTMAS #342, b. 1810, Warren Co., NC. He married MARY ANNE DIXON #1446, 1832, in Jefferson Co., TN. HENRY died 1850, Tchula, MS.
C.THOMAS HILLIARD CHRISTMAS #1502, b. 1812, Warren Co., NC. THOMAS died 28 Feb 1859, Bolivar Co., MS.
III.WILLIAM NORFLEET HORN #2112, (son of WILLIAM HORN #2111 and SARAH NORFLEET #2110) b. ABT 1792, d. BEF 1819, Greene Co., GA.
IV.DAVID LAWRENCE HORN #2113, (son of WILLIAM HORN #2111 and SARAH NORFLEET #2110) b. ABT 1794, d. Sep 1840, Warren Co., MS.
[WHT: Nov. 10, 1997 message from Philip Norfleet:]
1) Mary Ann Hilliard, the wife of Thomas Christmas III (b. bef. 1770), was probably the daughter of Sarah Norfleet (b. c. 1762) and her first husband, Elias Hilliard. Elias Hilliard died in about 1789. Sarah Norfleet Hilliard took as her second husband, Col William Horn. They were married about 1790 or a little later. Sarah Norfleet Hilliard Horn was the older sister of Major James Norfleet (1767-1846) of Robertson County TN and Cordell Norfleet (1777-1834) of Montgomery County TN.2) Dr. Julius Allen, in his 1891 memorandum, states that a certain Mary Norfleet, a sister of Maj James Norfleet, married a Mister Christmas. This Mary was more probably this same Mary Ann Hilliard! Julius Allen probably had confused the relationship of Mary to James Norfleet - she was his niece, not his sister! When Mary Ann Hilliard married Thomas Christmas III on 22 Jul 1801, they both were probably living in Middle Tennessee at the time.
3) Therefore, the connection between the Norfleet and the Christmas families is via the Hilliards, not the Horns! The three sons of Thomas and Mary Ann Christmas were Richard, Thomas and Henry. Thus, William B. Norfleet, son of Codell Norfleet of Montgomery County TN, was a first cousin of the three Christmas brothers!
4) William B. Norfleet was the son of Cordell Norfleet of Montgomery County TN. William B. Norfleet, in his will dated 6 Sep 1840, names Thomas H. Christmas IV as his executor. This Thomas Christmas IV is undoubtedly the son of Thomas and Mary Ann Hilliard Christmas. The fact that he left the bulk of his estate to Mary E. Christmas, wife of Richard Christmas, is still a bit puzzling. However, since Richard was his business partner and since he had no other close relatives still living, except Minerva Ann Norfleet, William Norfleet may have decided to will his portion of the plantation to Richard's wife. His estate was willed to Richard's wife instead of Richard, to avoid any problems re possible debt obligations that Richard may have incurred due to the insolvency of Richard's brothers Thomas and Henry.
[WHT: Dec. 1, 1997 message from Philip Norfleet:]
I have just received, from Tom Ayres, a copy of the will of David Lawrence Horn of Warren County MS. David Lawrence Horn was the son of Sarah Norfleet and Colonel William Horn (his 4th wife) of Nash County, North Carolina. Before her marriage to Col. Horn, Sarah Norfleet had been the second wife of Elias Hilliard, also of North Carolina. It is my belief that Sarah is the key individual connecting the Norfleet, Hilliard, Horn and Christmas families of North Carolina, Tennessee and Mississippi.In the will, David Lawrence Horn makes mention of his half-sister, Elizabeth Green, his relations Thomas H. Christmas, Henry Christmas, Mary E. Christmas and her son Thomas Hardeman Christmas. Richard Christmas, the husband of Mary E. Christmas, is not mentioned. William B. Norfleet was one of the witnesses to the will, which was dated 6 August 1840.
In a previous message I outlined my hypothesis that Mary Ann Hilliard, who married Thomas Christmas on 22 Jul 1801, was the daughter of Sarah Norfleet and Elias Hilliard. David L. Horn's will fully supports this hypothesis and adds the conjecture that the Elizabeth Hilliard, who married William Green, is also the daughter of Sarah Norfleet and Elias Hilliard. The only way that Elizabeth Green could be a half-sister of David Lawrence Horn (see David's will), would be if Elizabeth's mother was also Sarah Norfleet!
[WHT comments: The following is the transcription of David. L. Horn's will by Philip Norfleet; it is shown here with his permission, granted via email on Dec. 30, 1998:]
Will of David Lawrence Horn, dated 6 August 1840, which was proved in Warren Co. MS during the October Term of the Warren Co. Probate Court:
I David L. Horn of the Co. of Warren & State of Mississippi do make and publish this my last will and testament hereby revoking and making void all former Wills by me at any time heretofore made as to Such Worldly estate as it hath pleased god to entrust me with. I dispose of the same as follows:
First I direct that all of my debts to be paid as soon as possible after my decease out of any Moneys coming into the hands of my Executor from any portion of my Estate both real or personal.
Secondly I hereby give and bequeath after all my debts are paid the sum of Two Thousand dollars to my half Sister Elizabeth Green Wife of William Green of Georgia to Have and to hold the Same Separate and apart from her husband and not to be Subject to his [sic] and
Thirdly I give and bequeath unto Thomas H. Christmas and Henry Christmas each the sum of One Thousand Dollars after all of my debts are paid.
Fourthly The Residue of my whole Estate after if shall have been witness by my Executor, I hereby give and bequeath to my affectionate friends and relations Mary E. Christmas and her son, William Hardeman Christmas to be equally divided between them share and share alike.
Fifthly, I do hereby make and appoint my relative Thomas H. Christmas, Executor of This my last Will and Testament and that he shall go no Security for the performance of the Trust I repose in him as my Executor. And further I do hereby empower my Executor to do and perform any and everything in acting about the Setting up of my Estate which I might or Could have done during my life in person, To Sell at public or private Sale and give a fee Simple, to lease it out and dispose of in any manner which in his discretion may Seem best for the benefit of my Devisees both real & personal property.
In Testimony whereof I David L. Horn the Testator have hereunto Set my hand and affixed my Seal This Sixth day of August in the year of our Lord One thousand and eight hundred and forty.
/S/ D. L Horn (Seal)
Signed Sealed and delivered in the presence of us who have subscribed in presence of one another: Wm. B. Norfleet, John Snow & Jas. F. Young
[WHT: Loose Estate Papers Vol 1 by Dr. Stephen E. Bradley, Jr. (From files of Ginger Christmas)]
Thomas Christmas & Marianne his wife petition for an accounting. They stated they married 22 Jul 1801, that William Green had been her guardian, that she had received land on Roanoke River in Northampton Co. & slaves, that said guardian had profited without accounting to them.
22 Jan 1803 dais William Green answered that he became guardian in 1792, that took into his care 1/3 of 500 acres and 4 Negroes, that worked them with those of his sister Elizabeth.
1 Aug 1803. Deposition of Leonard Jones in Thomas Christmas & his wife Mary Ann vs William Green. Deposition taken in Warrenton; stated was overseer of land in Northampton Co. 1797-1799, that the Negroes of Mary Ann Hillyard the wife of said Christmas & those of her sister Elizabeth & Capt. William Green were worked in common, that said Green had said profits were to be divided proportionately.
Account 1792-1801 for Mary Ann Hilliard alias Christmas with William Green guardian. Slaves named: Will and Vilet. Others named: Will Bowers, Henry Dawson [a former guardian?], Har. Horn. William Horn.
Sept. court 1805 William Green Jr. & his wife Elizabeth petition for an accounting. They state that they married in 1797, for a number of years before William Green had been guardian to said Elizabeth and took into his possission her estate which included land on Roanoke in Northampton Co. and slaves, that said guardian profited without accounting to them.
1806 William Green answered that in 1794 did take 4 Negroes to the plantation where his ward's father did live, divided according to the dower, that had expenses and kept account.
Account 1792-1796 for William Green Jr. & wife with William Green Sr. names mentioned: Henry Dawson [a former guardian?], James Green, Jos Hill, William Horn, Jno D. White, John Williams.
[WHT: The following was sent by Marlene McLean, who found it on the SC Roots List: Green Co., GA - 1827 Land Lottery - those receiving land. Captain John Southerlands District no 148
Sarah Horn w. R.W.S Maryanne Chrismas Thomas Chrismas Orphans Richard Christmas]
1800 Census, Edgefield Co. , SC; Page 136, list Richard Christmas as head of household - 1 male 16-25; 1 male 26-45; 2 female under 10; 1 female over 45; 5 slaves1810 Census, Edgefield Co. , SC; Page Page 062 NTL, list Richard Christman [this is a misspelling of Christmas, son of Thomas, Jr.] 1 male under 10; ; 1 male 45 & over; 2 females under 10; 1 female 16-26; 1 female 26-45; 4 slaves.
1820 Census, Edgefield Co. , SC; Page 093 list Richard Christmas as head of household [son of Thomas, Jr., Warren/Orange Co., N.C.] 2 males 10-16; 1 male over 45; 2 females 10-16; 1 female 26-45.
1830 Census, Edgefield Co. , SC; Page 144 list Richard Christmas as head of household [son of Thomas, Jr.; father of Nathaniel Green Christmas] 1 male 60-70; 1 female 30-40; 1 female 50-60; 12 slaves.
Sometime after 1830 Richard and family moved to Muscogee Co., GA, probably because of the following land grant.
REPRINT of OFFICIAL REGISTER of LAND LOTTERY OF GEORGIA 1827
21st DAY'S DRAWING-March 30
GREENE.
page 63
Fortunate Drawers: Richard Chrismas,
Captains District: Sutherlands
Number: 27
District: 20
County: Muscogee CountyReceived following land grant in 1840: Bureau of Land Management - Eastern States, General Land Office
Patent DescriptionMS1150__.016 Cancelled: NDocument Nr. : 15849Misc. Document Nr. : Patentee Name: CHRISTMAS, RICHARD Warrantee Name: Authority: April 24, 1820: Cash Entry Sale (3 Stat. 566) Signature Present: Y Signature Date: 02/27/1841 Metes/Bounds: N Survey Date: Subsurface Reserved: N Land Office: COLUMBUS Comments: JOHN S GOOCH Legal Land Descriptions Nr.Aliquot PartsSec/BlkTownshipRangeFract. Sect.MeridianAcresCounties 1E½SE20/18-N16-ENCHOCTAW MERIDIAN 80 LOWNDES
Christmas family cemetery in Muscogee Co., GA. Direction, according to Walter C. Thompson and Buster W. Wright: going N. on Manchester Expressway Exit R. on County Line Rd., go to top of rise, first dirt Rd. on R. in front of first house on left; go from Rd., bearing L. about 150 yards into woods; located on Lennard property in 1977.
[WHT: Following comments by Mary Barnette, sent via email on Oct. 13, 2000. Mary provided the photos.]
"Herbert, I visited the Christmas Cemetery a couple of weeks ago and it is lovely. There is a subdivision there now called "Liberty Hall" with very expensive homes being built. One of the streets is "Christmas Drive." I will send you some information at a later time when I get it all together, however, Richard's wife Mary's last name is spelled "ROBERSON." It was quite interesting looking at all the graves. Richard's original tombstone is broken in about 6 pieces. The new one is beautiful. The cemetery is in a very serene setting now. No dirt roads, all paved streets and is on the right just inside the subdivision. You can park right on the curb and the marker is right there and then the graves are within an enclosed fence."
The following are buried in CHRISTMAS Family Cemetery in Muscogee Co., Ga.
RICHARD CHRISTMAS b: Feb. 4, 1764; d: July 18, 1848; father of N.G. CHRISTMAS. RICHARD fought and was a captain in Revolution; his war records & family are fairly well documented; DAR, etc. Son of Thomas, Jr. of Warren Co., N.C.
MARY CHRISTMAS b: 1768; d: July 18, 1846; wife of Richard.
TEMPORANCE E CHRISTMAS SIMPSON b: July 2, 1792; d: Aug. 5, 1856; daughter of Richard, wife of Robert Simpson. Brick marker.
NATHANIEL GREEN CHRISTMAS (b: Nov. 15, 1805; d: Oct. 24, 1848) is son of Richard Christmas
The following four graves are inside a fenced lot. Miss ELIZA J. FERGUSON b: March 15, 1835; d: April 8, 1867. DANIEL HUFF b: 1788; d: March, 1852. MARY E. daughter of Mary and Daniel Huff NATHANIEL HUFF b: 1820; d: 1843.
According to the "Christian Index of Obituaries, 1822-1879" for Georgia, both Richard and his son, Nathaniel died from Typhoid fever, p.375. The dates of death differ from the above; Richard died on 9-13-1848 and Nathaniel died on 10-10-1848; both died in Muscogee Co., GA; it states Richard's age to be 86 & Nathaniel's 44.
Muscogee Co., GA Will Book A, p. 99-102; Will of Richard Christmas, dated Dec. 2, 1847; Probated Nov. 6, 1848. Names son, Nathaniel G.; daughters: Temperance Huff, once wife of John Huff; Mary P. Huff, wife of Daniel Huff, Jr.; Martha H. Furguson, wife of James Ferguson. Exs. Nathaniel Christmas & Temperance E. Huff. Wit: James Meachum, John T. Langford & John D. Lanham.
The history & genealogy of our Christmas family continues to grow, with the addition of many new families and allied surnames. If you find errors in these pages or have additions, please write Herbert Turner at the Christmas Home Page; the corrections & additions will be made; thank you.
Many Christmas descendants have provided their research & photos for these web pages, refer to our Researcher's Page for some of their names, lines and addresses.
Please note, this and all linked pages are protected by COPYRIGHT. Researchers that have shared information with me, maintain their own personal copyright to their shared material, and can do whatever they like with their material. You are welcome to use the material on these web pages, for your personal use only, provided "© 1997-2012 by W. Herbert Turner" is included. It cannot be used in any publications, digital media - CD/DVDs, web pages, etc. without written permission. If you share this material with other family members, you should inform them of the copyright.
Copyright © 1997-2012 by W. Herbert Turner