Person Page - 49

     Nancy Oregin POWELL was born in 1832 in Tennessee.¹

Nancy married Timothy Washington Lafayette MATHEWS, son of Timothy Walton MATHEWS and Sophia Weston BURT, on 30 January 1849 in Marengo County, Alabama.^2,3

Nancy Oregin POWELL and Timothy Washington Lafayette MATHEWS appeared as head of household on a census enumerated 1 June 1850 in Wilcox County, Alabama. The household was listed as T. W. L. Mathews, a 25 year old merchant, born in in Alabama. He owned real estate valued at $600. His wife was Nancy O. Mathews, age 18 and born in Tennessee.⁴

Nancy Oregin POWELL and Timothy Washington Lafayette MATHEWS appeared as head of household on a census enumerated 18 September 1860 in Mobile, Alabama. The household was listed as Timothy L. Mathews, a 30 year-old steamboat captain, and his wife, Oregin N. of Tennessee, age 26. Timothy had personal property valued at $7,800 and owned several slaves. They had two daughters, Sophia W., 6; Mary F., 3, and a son, Walton, who was one year old. They had three slaves.^5,6

Nancy Oregin POWELL and Timothy Washington Lafayette MATHEWS appeared as head of household on a census enumerated 16 June 1880 in Napoleonville, Mobile County, Alabama. The household was listed as T. R. Mathewsshe, a 55 year old steamboat clerk, and his 48 year old wife, Origon; born in Tennessee. Also in the household were son Walter [Walton] Mathews, 21; son John C. Mathews, 19, railroad clerk; daughter Minnie, 15; daugther Roberta, 11; daughter [Willie] Weston Mathews, 9; son Beatty, 4; daugther Mary Nichols, 23; and son-in-law Alex Nichols, 23, butcher. All were born in Alabama except for Nancy.⁷

According to a city directory Nancy was living in 1891 in 504 St. Anthony St., Mobile, Alabama. This was the same address listed for Timothy W. Mathews, possibly her son, who was corresponding clerk for Barney, Cavanaugh & Long. The following year and in 1893 the widow was living at 454 State Street. In 1890 John C. and T. Walton Mathews were listed as the president and secretary-treasurer of Mathews Laundry Company, a Peerless steam laundry.⁸

     Mary Ann SPARKS was born circa 1839 in Texas.

Mary married James Wade Hawkins MATHEWS, son of Timothy Walton MATHEWS and Sophia Weston BURT, on 1 May 1854 in Galveston, Texas.^1,2

Mary Ann SPARKS and James Wade Hawkins MATHEWS appeared as head of household on a census enumerated 6 July 1860 in Ward 1, Mobile, Alabama. The household was listed as Jas. H. Matthews, a 30 year old steamboat clerk, born Alabama. He had real estate valued $1500. His assumed wife was Mary A. Matthews, age 21, born in Texas. Their children were Wm. W. Matthews, age 5, born Texas; Sarah W. Matthews, age 2, born Alabama; and Robert J. Matthews, age 1, born Alabama.³

Mary Ann SPARKS and James Wade Hawkins MATHEWS appeared as head of household on a census enumerated 23 June 1870 in Mobile, Alabama. The household was listed as J. H. Matthews, a 41 year old corn merchant, born Alabama, and his wife, Mary A. Matthews, age 27, born Texas. Their children were William W., 15 and Sallie, 13, both at home and born Texas. Also in the household was J. D. Raglin, age 54, no occupation, born Kentucky with real estate valued $300, 000 and personal estate $500,000. There were two black servants, Mary A. Mathews, 13, Domestic servant, born Mississippi and Jane Raglin, 50, cook, born Washington DC.⁴

Mary Ann SPARKS and James Wade Hawkins MATHEWS appeared as head of household on a census enumerated 18 June 1880 in Grand Bay, Mobile County, Alabama. The household was listed as James H. Mathews, a 51 year old farmer, born Alabama, and his wife, Maryan Mathews, age 21, keeping house, born Texs. LIving with them was their son, William W. Mathews, age 26, born Texas, and their daughter in law, Blanch, age 28, born Alabama and their daughter, and daughter in law, Sally Mathews, age 20, born Alabama.⁵

Mary Ann SPARKS died before 1900 in Mobile County, Alabama.

     Martha Abernathy HARRIS, daughter of Hartwell Sledge HARRIS and Mary M. VINCENT, was born in 1842 in Alabama. She was also known as Mattie.

Martha married Robert William Chambliss MATHEWS, son of Timothy Walton MATHEWS and Sophia Weston BURT, on 22 November 1871 in Nanafalia, Marengo County, Alabama. Rev. A. J. Withers performed the ceremony at the home of Jno. H. Vincent.

Their marriage was mentioned in a newspaper article. The title was "Matrimonial and the Prairie State." -- One of ours had the pleasure of being a passenger aboard the steamer Prairie State, on her last trip down, arriving in the city yesterday morning. We say pleasure, because it is always pleasant to travel in such a steamer with such genial and gentlemanly officers; but on this occasion it was still further enhanced by the presence, on board, of a bridal party, Capt. Robert W. Mathews, the polite and accommodating clerk, who, though attached to the Prairie State, having had the good taste, and we may say, good fortune, to join the matrimonial state. The fair bride was Miss Mattie A. Harris, and the wedding took place last Wednesday at Nanafalia, Marengo county, the Rev. J. A. Witherspoon officiating. Just it will be seen that gaiety and feasting were the order of the trip, the bright and lovely star being the fair bride. We trust that their wedding life may prove genial and fraught with happiness, and that they may glide as smoothly down the stream of time, as does the noble and graceful Prairie State over the silverly waters of the romantic Tombignee.^1,2

Martha Abernathy HARRIS and Robert William Chambliss MATHEWS appeared as head of household on a census enumerated 8 June 1880 in Nanafalia, Marengo County, Alabama. The household was listed as Robert Mathews, a 47 year-old first clerk of a steamboat and his 35 year-old wife, Martha. The couple had four children: Mattie, 7; John H., 6; Fletcher G., 4, and Carrie W., 2. Also living in the household were two white female domestic servants, Josephine Powell, 17, and Anna Powell, 15.³

Robert died on 11 November 1890 in Mobile, Alabama, at age 57 leaving Martha Abernathy HARRIS as a widow.¹

She was living in 1893 in Mobile, Alabama. In the city directory for that year Mattie Mathews was listed as the widoo of Capt. Robert W. Mathews. She lived at 169 South Broad Street with her son Fletcher G. Mathews who was a night clerk at WUT Company.

She was listed in the 1897 city directory for Mobile, Alabama. Mattie A. Mathews, widow of Robert W. Mathews, resident of 912 Church Street. Also living at that address was probably her son, Fletcher G. Mathews, operator at WUT Company.⁴

Martha Abernathy HARRIS appeared as head of household on a census enumerated 19 June 1900 in Grove Hill, Clarke County, Alabama. The household was listed as Martha Mathews was a 57 year old widow and mother of four, all lilving. She was born Nov 1842 in Alabama. Living with her were her two daughters, Mattie R., 27, born Oct 1872 and Carrie W., a 22 year old school teacher, born Sept. 1877.⁵

Mattie appeared as head of household on a census enumerated 10 April 1910 in Gulfport, Harrison County, Mississippi. The household was listed as Mattie A. Mathews was a 67 year old widow and mother of four, all living. She owned her home at 2111 19th Avenue free of mortgage. Her daughter Carrie was a 32 year old public school teacher.⁶

Martha Abernathy HARRIS appeared as head of household on a census enumerated 19 January 1920 in Gulfport, Harrison County, Mississippi. The household was listed as Mrs. Mattie A. Mathews was a 77 year old widow living at 211 19th Avenue and owned her home, free of mortgage. Her daughter, Miss Carrie W. Mathews was 42 years old. Neither was employed.⁷

Martha Abernathy HARRIS died in June 1926 in Gulfport, Mississippi. She was buried in Evergreen Cemetery, Gulfport, Harrison County, Mississippi.⁸

     William Henry Eaton COX, son of Waid Hampton COX and Martha Moore MATHEWS, was born in 1830 in Alabama. He was a farmer.

William Henry Eaton COX was named an heir in the will of Waid Hampton COX dated 7 December 1831 in Autauga County, Alabama. At the death of their mother he ordered the estate divided equally between his four children. He was referred to as William Henry Eaton Cox.¹

In June 1842 at Kingston, Autauga County, Alabama, Benjamin F. Tarleton made a report as guardian of William Henry Eaton COX, Jesse James COX and Bartlett Ledbetter Cox.²

On 30 January 1843 in Autauga County, Alabama, George E. Chisohm was appointed guardian of the minor heirs of Waid Cox, dec'd: William Henry Eaton COX, Jesse James COX and Bartlett Ledbetter Cox.³

William married Caroline M. RAMSEY on 12 May 1847 in Autauga County, Alabama.⁴ He was discribed about 1850 as a drunkard. The story was told that at Washington two barrels of liquor, just from the river landing, were rolled from a wagon to the stoop in front of a store. William's brother, Jesse Cox, picked up an axe and burst in the heads of the barrels, and paid the merchant for the liquor on the spot. He said that destroying the liquor would keep his brother sober for several weeks, as it would take a long time to get more up the river from Mobile.⁵

William Henry Eaton COX and Caroline M. RAMSEY appeared as head of household on a census enumerated 16 October 1850 in Washington, Autauga County, Alabama. The household was listed as Wm. H. Cox, a 26-year-old farmer, and Caroline, his 18-year-old wife. She was born in Georgia. They had one child, James W., one-year-old.⁶

     Timothy MATHEWS, son of James MATHEWS III and Sarah BRINKLEY, was born in 1769 in Halifax County, North Carolina.¹ He was a planter.

Timothy MATHEWS and James MATHEWS were included on a tax list in 1801 in Capt. William Smith's District, Warren County, Georgia. They were taxed for 137.2 acres and 4 slaves. In 1805 Timothy was taxed for 100 acres and 14 slaves.

Timothy married Martha FLEWELLEN, daughter of Abner H. FLEWELLEN and Nancy Ann LANE, on 13 April 1801 in Warren County, Georgia. She was a very persuasive talker and induced her sisters and their husbands to join her in Holton, Bibb County, Georgia. This community was very near Macon. She as known as "Aunt Patsy" to all her descendants. Timothy was in love with her mother, Ann Lane, but she had refused him and married Abner Flewellyn. When her daughter Martha was 15 and he was 32, he pressed his claim and they were married. It was a happy marriage and all kith and kin doted on her. They had no children.^2,3,4,5

Timothy MATHEWS sold a tract of land to Samuel Posey on 7 February 1807 in Warren County, Georgia. Timothy MATHEWS was one of the adjoining landholders.⁶

Timothy MATHEWS witnessed the sale of land from Elizabeth BURT to Thomas A. COLEMAN on 1 May 1812 in Halifax County, North Carolina. This sale of the land inherited from her husband, Joseph Burt, involved all of their childen excepting Joseph, Jr. and Stephen, who was deceased. An abstract of the sale reads: The widow Elizabeth Burt and the devisees of Joseph Burt dec'd. John Burt Exr., William Burt, Stephen Marshall and Elizabeth his wife, Jesse Burt, Zacheus Burt, John Mathews and Nancy his wife, James Burt, Richard Burt, Eaton Fluellen, Taylor Fluellen, John Gibson and Fannie his wife, to Thomas Coleman of Halifax County on the west side of Rocky Branch, bounded by Rocky Swamp Bridge, Hill's road, Hynes Branch, Joseph Burt Jr.'s line, Pigpen Branch, Greens Branch, Vinson's line, Rocky Swamp, which the said Joseph Burt Deed devised to the above mentioned widow and devisees in his Last Will and Testiment. Signed: Eliz. Burt (her mark), Zacheus Burt, Jas. Burt, Richd Burt, Stephn. Marshall, Eliza. Marshall, John Burt, Eaton Fluellen, John Gibson, Fanny Gibson, John Mathews, Mary Matthews, Taylor Fluellen, Wm. Burt, Jesse Burt. Witnesses: James Hightower, Oren D. Carstarphen, Hope H. Hatten, Timothy Matthews, Nelson Hamel, H[enry] Perkins, February Court 1813.

Court ordered three commissions directed to Justices in Baldwin, Putnam, and Jones Counties, Georgia for private examinations of Mary Matthews, Fanny Gibson, and Elizabeth Marshall, which was done... Fanny Gibson in Jones County, Georgia; Mary Matthews in Baldwin County, Georgia; Elizabeth Marshall in Putnam County, Georgia.⁷

Timothy MATHEWS and Martha FLEWELLEN moved from Twiggs County, Georgia, about ten miles from Macon, to Bibb County, Georgia, 1821 . He was a great advocate of education and, with his in-laws, built the county school and provided room and board for many of the students. He also operated a first-class grist mill on his plantation. He was a man of big heart and adopted five foster children: Paris A. Watts, Zimble Hall, Tim Furlow, Matt Redding (his nephews), and W. L. Furlow, son of Tim Furlow and Margaret Lowther.

Timothy MATHEWS died in 1845 in Bibb County, Georgia.⁸

     Isham married Polly FLEWELLEN, daughter of Richard FLEWELLEN and Nancy "Betsy" TAYLOR.¹

     Martha FLEWELLEN, daughter of Abner H. FLEWELLEN and Nancy Ann LANE, was born in 1786 in North Carolina.¹ She was also known as Patsy.

Martha married Timothy MATHEWS, son of James MATHEWS III and Sarah BRINKLEY, on 13 April 1801 in Warren County, Georgia. She was a very persuasive talker and induced her sisters and their husbands to join her in Holton, Bibb County, Georgia. This community was very near Macon. She as known as "Aunt Patsy" to all her descendants. Timothy was in love with her mother, Ann Lane, but she had refused him and married Abner Flewellyn. When her daughter Martha was 15 and he was 32, he pressed his claim and they were married. It was a happy marriage and all kith and kin doted on her. They had no children.^2,3,4,5

Timothy MATHEWS and Martha FLEWELLEN moved from Twiggs County, Georgia, about ten miles from Macon, to Bibb County, Georgia, 1821 He was a great advocate of education and, with his in-laws, built the county school and provided room and board for many of the students. He also operated a first-class grist mill on his plantation. He was a man of big heart and adopted five foster children: Paris A. Watts, Zimble Hall, Tim Furlow, Matt Redding (his nephews), and W. L. Furlow, son of Tim Furlow and Margaret Lowther.

     Dannett ABNEY, son of George ABNEY and Unity Meredith, was born circa 1727 in Henrico County, Virginia.¹

Dannett married Cassandra Abney, daughter of Dr. Abraham ABNEY and Cassandra MEREDITH, circa 1749 in Amelia County, Virginia.¹

Dannett ABNEY was named an heir in the will of his father, George ABNEY, dated on 13 October 1765 in Halifax County, Virginia. He received 240 acres adjoining John Fuqua's land in Sherlot County.^2,3

Dannett ABNEY and Cassandra Abney sold a tract of land to Thomas HILL on 14 January 1768 in Halifax County, Virginia. For £30 they sold 98 acres on Catawba Creek, beginning at John Bates' corner, his line north... crossing Catawba Creek... Pruett's line, thence crossing said creek... the meanders of a branch... Pruett's line... the beginning. Witnesses: James Hill, Samuel Abney, Ann Hill, Elizabeth (x) Tery.⁴

Dannett ABNEY was granted land 14 June 1768 in near Higgins Ferry on the Saluda River, Ninety-Six District, South Carolina. (an unknown value.)

Dannett ABNEY was granted land 2 July 1769 in Colleton County, South Carolina. The royal land grant was for 200 acres in a small branch of Bigg Creek. The plat was certified 14 Jan 1768. Colleton was one of the original proprietary counties and extended inland from the coast.⁵

Dannett ABNEY was granted land 19 March 1773 in Colleton County, South Carolina. The royal land grant was for 200 acres on the waters of the Little Saludy[Saluda River], adjacent Bailey Champney and other lands of Dannett Abney. The plat was certified 5 Jan 1773.⁶

Dannett ABNEY appeared as Head of Household on the census of 1779 in Old 96 District, South Carolina. The census also included these related households: Samuel ABNEY Sr., Nathaniel ABNEY, Capt. William ABNEY and Paul ABNEY.⁷

Dannett ABNEY appeared on the 1790 Federal Census of Ninety-Six District, Edgefield County, South Carolina, Males - Under 16: 1 [Charles?], Males - 16 and over: 1 [Dannett], and Females: 3 [Cassandra, ?].

Dannett ABNEY witnessed a sale of land by George Dean Sr. on 22 January 1795 in Edgefield County, South Carolina. The land on Perryman Creek, a branch of the Little Saluda River, was adjacent to Dannett's land. Dannett and Samuel Abney were among the witnesses.⁸

Dannett ABNEY sold a tract of land to his son, Samuel ABNEY, on 20 December 1797 in Edgefield County, South Carolina. Sold for $150 the deed contained 150 acres upon Persimmon Lick Creek of the Little Saluda River, originally granted unto said Dannett Abney, adjacent lands of Joseph Griffith, George Abney, Walter Abney, and Glade Lick Creek. Witnesses were Joel Abney and Esau Brooks. It was signed by Dannett Abney and proven 5 Jan 1798 by Joel Abney. It was recorded 13 Jun 1798 by Nathaniel Abney, JP

This land was located where Glade Lick Creek joins Persimmon Creek, near Hicks Grove Church.⁹

Dannett ABNEY sold a tract of land to his son, Sgt. George ABNEY, on 20 December 1797 in Edgefield County, South Carolina. For $150 he sold 150 acres on Persimmon Lick Creek orginally granted to said Dannett Abney, whereon said George Abney now lives, adjacent Joseph Griffins land, Simon Brooks, line dividing said George Abney and his brother Samuel Abney. Witnesses were Joel Abney and Essau Brooks. It was signed by Dannett and proven 5 Jan 1798 by Joel Abney before Nathaniel Abney, JP. Recorded 29 May 1796.¹⁰

Dannett ABNEY sold a tract of land to John Riley on 14 February 1798 in Edgefield County, South Carolina. For $85 paid by Samuel Beak, he sold to John Riley 10 acres being part of a tract adjacent land of John Riley and William Abney on Persimmon Creek. Witnesses were George (A) Abney and Samuel (X) Abney. It was signed by Dannett Abney and proven 29 Jun 1798 by George (A) Abney "who saw Dannett Abney sign and deliver within instrument to Sam'l Beaks for purpose within mentioned." It was recorded by the authority of Nathaniel Abney, JP on 30 Jun 1798.¹¹

Dannett ABNEY was listed as original owner of land sold by Sgt. George ABNEY and Sarah "Sally" GRIFFITH on 12 December 1798 in Edgefield County, South Carolina. For 74.13 pounds sterling 100 acres being part of 150 acres conveyed from Dannett Abney to George Abney and orginally granted to said Dannett Abney, upon Persimmon Lick Creek of Little Saluda River, bound by Joseph Griffiths and Samuel Abney. Witnesses were William Boulware, Joseph Griffith, and John Gwyn. Signed George (X) Abney and Sally (X) Abney. Judge William Anderson certified relinquishment of dower by Salley Abney, signed Salley (X) Abney. Proven 18 March 1799 by Joseph Griffiths; Nathaniel Abney, JP. Recorded 16 Mar 1799.¹²

Dannett ABNEY appeared on the 1800 Federal Census of Edgefield County, South Carolina, Males - 45 and over: 1 [Dannett] and Females - 26 thru 44: 1 [Cassandra].
Number of Slaves: 1.

Dannett ABNEY sold a tract of land to Charles ABNEY Jr. on 6 February 1809. Dannett Abney, son of George and Unity, sold to his grandson, Charles Abney, 100 acres of land situated in Edgefield District on the lower side of Glade Lick Creek. Recorded 24 Oct 1809.¹³

Dannett ABNEY died on 30 December 1809 in Ninety-Six, Greenwood County, South Carolina.¹⁴ He was buried in Nathaniel Abney Cemetery, Saluda, Saluda County, South Carolina.

     Nathaniel ABNEY, son of George ABNEY and Unity Meredith, was born on 4 April 1734 in Halifax County, Virginia.^1,2 He was also known as Capt. Nathaniel. He was a farmer and ferry operator. In 1795 a ferry was authorized to be established at Abney's Ford and operated by Nathaniel on the south side of the Saluda river and Francis Higgins on the north side.³

Nathaniel married Isabella MADISON, daughter of Henry MADISON and Elizabeth Coleman, on 18 April 1758 in Augusta County, Virginia. Nathaniel was a young man of rather wild tastes, fond of horse racing and gaming, and for these reasons Isabella's family forbade their marriage and they were forced to elope. They were married by the famous Rev. Patrick Henry, her brother-in-law. There is a family story that since her family forbade the marriage and it was against the law for a man to run off with a lady; she got the horse and he rode behind, i.e. -- she ran off with him. Patrick Henry, is said to have given her the idea.^4,5

Nathaniel ABNEY and Capt. William ABNEY sold a tract of land to Mattox MAYS on 22 December 1761 in Halifax County, Virginia. Nathaniel Abney and William Abney of Halifax County to Mattox Mays of Lunnenburg County for £65, 370 acres on both sides of Mayses Creek beginning at a red oak thence north to Ellis' line including all houses, orchards, etc. Witnesses were William Hill, Abraham Abney, Joseph Mayes, Joseph East and John Mayes.⁶

He was a defendant in a suit of May Court, 1763 as "Nathaniel, son of George." He was apparently a hell-raiser and his father had to bail him out of much trouble, which could account for him being omitted from the will. He is also the Nathaniel Abney living on George Abney's land in Halifax County. He is believed also to be the Nathaniel Abney who was counterfeiting in Amelia county, Virginia, where his brother was paid for defense of the frontier, and his brother Dannett was married. It is also the county that his brother-in-law, Mattox Mays was from. There are too many connections not to believe the Nathaniel Abney counterfeiting there was not him. But he showed himself famously in the American Revolution, and cleaned up his reputation.^7,8

Nathaniel ABNEY was granted land 5 October 1763 in Berkeley County (Ninety-Six District), South Carolina. He received a royal land grant for 100 acres near Ninety-Six. The land plat had been certified 2 Aug 1763. Berkeley was one of the original proprietary counties created in 1682. It extended from the coast inland to the later Edgefield area.⁹

Nathaniel ABNEY was granted land 29 October 1766 in Granville County, South Carolina. He received a royal grant for 200 acres in Granville county on Saluda River, adjacent Joseph Thomas. The plat had been certified 20 Sep 1766. Granville was another of the original proprietary counties that extended inland from the coast.¹⁰

Nathaniel ABNEY was granted land 23 February 1768 in Berkeley County, South Carolina. The grant for 200 acres on Mudlick Branch, a branch of Little River, was surveyed 6 May 1766 and the plat certified 4 Aug 1767. It was bounded on the east and southeast by William Neale.^11,12

Nathaniel ABNEY was granted land 21 December 1769 in Colleton County, South Carolina. The royal grant was for 100 acres, adjacent Solomon Woods land. The plat was certified 7 Oct 1769.¹³

During the Revolution Nathanial served as a Captain in the 3rd South Carolina Rangers under Col. Thomson during June 1775, and as captain and lieutenant of militia under Major Andrew Williamson during Williamson's Expedition and the First Siege of Ninety-Six. In a report of the militia and volunteers on duty in the fortified camp at Ninety-Six on Sunday, the 19th of November, 1775, under the command of Major Andrew Williamson was Capt. Nathaniel Abney commanding—3 officers, 2 sergeants, 18 privates. According to Wikipedia: Patriot forces under the command of Major Andrew Williamson had been dispatched to the area to recover a shipment of gunpowder and ammunition intended for the Cherokees that had been seized by Loyalists. Williamson's force, numbering over 500, established a stockaded fort near Ninety Six, where it was surrounded by some 1,900 Loyalists [under the command of Maj. Joseph Robinson and Capt. Patrick Cunningham].

Because the war was in its early days and the partisan war in the southern back country had not become as brutal as it would be later in the war, the siege was conducted desultorily, and was effectively a stalemate. After two days the Loyalists withdrew, having lost four killed and 20 wounded to one Patriot killed and 12 wounded.

Joseph Hamilton of Ninety-Six District commanded the patriot artillery with 17 men and three swivel guns. Capt. Andrew Hamilton commanded a company from Camden District. Are they connected to Martha Harriett Hamilton and Eleanor Hamilton who married into the Abney family?

The Provincial Congress in Charleston ordered Col. Richard Richardson to "silence the discontents of the backcountry" and "deliver up the bodies of all principal offenders"-- those loyal to the British government. Richardson learned that Tory leaders Patrick Cunningham and Col. Joseph Robinison was camped near the Cherokee lands on the Reedy River and sent a detachment of 1300 men under Col. William Thomson of the 3rd South Carolina Rangers on an all-night 25-mile march in pursuit. Nathaniel commanded a company. They surprised the 200 Loyalists at dawn on 22 Dec 1775 and captured 136 prisoners, as well as much-needed supplies, arms and ammunition. Cunningham and Robinson themselves narrowly escaped what was called the Battle of Great Cane Break. It took place in the southern part of present day Greenville county.¹

Nathaniel ABNEY appeared as Head of Household on the census of 1779 in Old 96 District, South Carolina. The census also included these related households: Samuel ABNEY Sr., Dannett ABNEY, Capt. William ABNEY and Paul ABNEY.¹⁴

Nathaniel ABNEY sold a tract of land to his son, John ABNEY, on 30 January 1792 in Edgefield County, South Carolina. John was referred to as a deputy surveyor, and both men were residents of Edgefield county. The sale for 100 pounds was for 250 acres being part of 400 acres orginally granted 16 Dec 1766 to Henry Metcalf and given in his will to his son Henry who conveyed it to Thomas W. Waters who with his wife Sarah conveyed it to Nathaniel Abney. The tract was on the south side of the Saluda River adjacent to where the Long branch of Tosety's Creek crosses the head of Wolf Trap's Branch, the widow Abney[Harriett?], Paul Abney, and Alexander Kenida[Kennedy]. The sale was witnessed by Azariah Abney, Thos. Pulley, Joel Abney on 27 Oct 1792. It was recorded 3 Sep 1793.¹⁵

Nathaniel ABNEY was a messenger or minister of the Mill Creek Church of Saluda County in 1794 and 1797. It was constituted in 1794 as part of the Bethel Baptist Association. His son-in-law William Spraggins was messenger 1798-1799.¹⁶

In 1795 Nathaniel ABNEY and Francis Higgins were authorized to establishment a ferry near the present day bridge on the Newberry-Saluda Road in Abney's Ford on the Saluda River, Saluda County, South Carolina. Nathaniel Abney owned the land on the Saluda side and Francis Higgins owned the land on the Newberry side. It was one of the most important ferries on the Saluda river. It continued to be operated by one or both of these families until the Civil War.

Francis Higgins is buried to the right of Hwy. 121 within sight of the present day bridge on the Newberry side. You can see the cemetery from the road about 50 ft. into the woods.^17,8,3

Nathaniel ABNEY died on 29 July 1806 in Edgefield, Edgefield County, South Carolina, at age 72.^4,18 He was buried in Nathaniel Abney Cemetery, Saluda County, South Carolina. The cemetery is 1/2 mile west of the Saluda River Bridge. Traveling from Newberry on Hwy. 121, turn right at the first logging road. Go about 1/2 mile, graves are located on the left in a small grove of trees on a slight knoll. The land belongs to Southern Brick Company. No tombstones remain, having been removed since 1956.^18,17

Nathaniel left a will dated 29 July 1806 in Edgefield County, South Carolina. In the name of God, Amen. I, Nathaniel Abney, of the state of South Carolina, and District of Edgefield, being sick, but of perfect memory, revoking all others, do appoint this to be by Last Will and Testament. First; It is my desire that my beloved wife Isabella, shall have a negro man named Jim, and his wife named Lucy, and their children, and a negro woman Agge, and her mother named Nooney, also all my stock of horses, cattle, sheep and hogs, and all my plantation tools, waggon and household furniture to be at her own discretion, during her natural life, and then to be equally divided amongst all my children, in any manner that a majority thereof may think proper, in such division. My four grand daughters Tabetha Adkerson, Isabelle Spragins, to be considered as one of my children, and the part that may fall to the lot of my daughter Sarah, I hereby leave in the hands of my executors, to be at her disposal during her natural life, and then to be equally divided amongst her children. Third: It is my desire that my daugthers, Sarah and Bettey shall have a piece of land, laying on the Panther Branch containing two hundred and fifty acres, equally divided between them. Fourth: It is my desire that there shall be no account given by any of my children of property that I have given them, at any time heretofore except a negro boy named Anthony, in the possession of my son Azariah, which it is my desire, shall be given up when a division of my property shall state place. Lastly, I do hereby nominate, constitute and appoint my three sons John, Joel, and Azariah, to be my true, and lawful executors, to see that the true intent, and meaning to this my Last Will and Testament be punitivally fulfilled. Witness my hand and seal this 29th of Jully 1806. Signed, sealed and published by the above named Nathaniel Abney, as and for his Last Will and Testament, in the presence of us whose names are underwritten. William Culbreath, John JnLoua, Merideth Wm. Moon. Nathal. Abney (Seal). Recorded in Will book A page 237, recorded May 13th 1807. Jn. Simkins O.E.D.¹⁹

     Michael ABNEY, son of George ABNEY and Unity Meredith, was born in 1740 in Henrico County, Virginia.

Michael married Ann TURNER, daughter of William TURNER and Ann _____, circa 1760 in Virginia. She was the daughter of William and Elizabeth Turner.

Michael ABNEY was named an heir in the will of his father, George ABNEY, dated on 13 October 1765 in Halifax County, Virginia. He was given the pllantation and stock upon his mother's death.^1,2

From Leonardo Andrea files, compiled in 1946, S.C., p. 19, #144, is the will of William TURNER of 96 District signed 1 Feb. 1774. His heirs included his wife, Elizabeth, and children, including Ann ABNEY, will ag 19 July 1800 cocidile sg. 22 Dec. 1812, Will 7 Jan 1813 in Newberry Co., names added ch. incl. "my dead dau who was wife of Michael ABNEY, now also dead, and their ch; Nathaniel Abney, James Abney, Ann Buffington and William Abney... Wit. Thomas Davidson, John COLLIER, & Joseph COLLIER.

From Halifax county, Virginia deed book 7, page 364 on 29 Aug 1768, "Michael Abney of the Province of South Carolina have appointed my brother Samuel Abney of Halifax County, Virginia, my true and lawful attorney to sell a tract of land in County of Halifax and Parish of Antrim first granted to George Abney, 170 acres."^3,4

Michael ABNEY was granted land 3 October 1771 in near the Saluda River, Ninety-Six District, South Carolina. After the war he moved to Newberry county.⁵

Michael ABNEY was granted land 30 October 1772 in Colleton County, South Carolina. The royal land grant was for 200 acres and the plat was certified 1 Sep 1772. This would have been along the Little Saluda River near his brothers: Dannett, Nathaniel, Samuel and William.⁶

Michael saw military service during the American Revolution. He served in the South Carolina militia under Captains John Wallace and Joseph Towles, of Col. Robert Anderson's Upper Ninety-Six District Regiment in the command of Gen. Andrew Pickett.⁵ He was buried in Bush River Quaker Cemetery, Newberry, South Carolina.

Michael ABNEY died in 1832 in Newberry County, South Carolina.

     Capt. William ABNEY, son of George ABNEY and Unity Meredith, was born on 5 May 1736 in Henrico County, Virginia.^1,2 He was a surveyor. He was a devisee of his father of lands in Virginia and grantee of lands on the Saluda River in South Carolina; and moved to that state in 1774 as a planter.

William married Mary CLARK circa 1756.

William began military service in 1756 in Amelia County, Virginia, serving as a foot soldier under Captains Henry Anderson and John Winne in defense of the colony of Virginia during the French and Indian War. He again appeared on an Amelia County militia roster in Sep 1758.³

Nathaniel ABNEY and Capt. William ABNEY sold a tract of land to Mattox MAYS on 22 December 1761 in Halifax County, Virginia. Nathaniel Abney and William Abney of Halifax County to Mattox Mays of Lunnenburg County for £65, 370 acres on both sides of Mayses Creek beginning at a red oak thence north to Ellis' line including all houses, orchards, etc. Witnesses were William Hill, Abraham Abney, Joseph Mayes, Joseph East and John Mayes.⁴

Capt. William ABNEY was named executor and an heir in the will of George ABNEY dated 13 October 1765 in Halifax County, Virginia. He was given 200 acres of land adjoining William Glass and Charles Harroway.^5,6

Capt. William ABNEY sold a tract of land to Thomas SPRAGGINS on 29 August 1768 in Halifax County, Virginia. For £20 they sold 175 acres beginning at a hickory in Thomas Spraggin's line, thence east... Harroway's lines south... William Glass' lines west... up a branch as it meanders to a hickory in William East's line... new lines. All houses, orchards, gardens, etc. Witnesses: Epa. White, Nat'l Spragin, William Hunt, Mary Spragin.⁷

Capt. William ABNEY was granted land 14 February 1772 in Edgefield County, South Carolina. William received a land grant 14 February 1772 near Saluda and a mile or two below Scotland, and on the old Ninety-Six Road near the Saluda River. His brother Samuel settled nearby.⁸

Capt. William ABNEY was granted land 21 April 1773 in Colleton County, South Carolina. He was granted 200 acres in Colletin County on a branch of Saludy called Tarepin [or Tarrapin] Creek. Bounded on north by said Abney, northeast by Levi Pitts, south by Phillip Hazell, other sides vacant. The survey was certified 4 May 1773. Quit rent was due in two years. This was a memorial dated 13 Jul 1774. Note that memorials were abstracts of land titles that owners of granted land were required by law to register in the office of His Majesty's Auditor General for South Carolina in Charleston. They facilitated collection of quitrent, a form of colonial property tax.^9,10

Capt. William ABNEY was granted land 21 April 1775 in Old 96 District, South Carolina. He was granted 200 acres in 96 District on Halfway Swamp waters of Saludy River. Bounded northwest by John Spiller, Patrick Dooley and Caleb Hollaway; southeast by John Spencer; other sides vacant. Survey certified 10 Feb 1775. Quit rent in two years. This was a Memorial abstract dated 2 Sep 1175.¹¹

Capt. William ABNEY began military service between 1776 and 1782 in Edgefield County, South Carolina. During the Revolution he served as a first lieutenant and captain in the South Carolina Militia under Gen. Andrew Pickens. He also served as a lieutenant in the 3rd Continental Regiment during 1777. He served seven years during the war, including service under his brother, Captain Nathaniel Abney. In a report of the militia and volunteers on duty in the fortified camp (Star Fort) at Ninety-Six on Sunday, the 19th of November, 1775, under the command of Major Andrew Williamson, William was mentioned as an officer under Major Mayson and his thirty-seven Rangers.^12,13

Capt. William ABNEY appeared as Head of Household on the census of 1779 in Old 96 District, South Carolina. The census also included these related households: Samuel ABNEY Sr., Dannett ABNEY, Nathaniel ABNEY and Paul ABNEY.¹⁴

William married second Elizabeth Cook circa 1780.

Lurena Gentry Burnett relinquished dower rights to 100 acres on waters of Little Saluda River to William Abney. They were originally granted to Jeremiah Burnett, Sr. 4 Jun 1786. She had married Burnett in 1783 and was the daughter of Hezekiah Gentry and Catherine Reynolds. William Abney later married Burnett's second wife, Elizabeth Cook.

His obituary appeared 21 January 1832 in the United States' Telegraph, Issue 20, published in Washington, D. C.. "Died in Edgefield (S. C.) District on the 24th of last month, Mr. Wm. Abney, Sen., at the advanced age of 94. Mr. Abney served faithfully in the militia in the revolutionary war."¹⁵

Capt. William ABNEY died on 24 January 1832 in Edgefield (now Saluda) County, South Carolina, at age 95.^12,16 He was buried in Abney Family Cemetery, Saluda, South Carolina.

     Caroline M. RAMSEY was born in 1832 in Alabama.¹

Caroline married William Henry Eaton COX, son of Waid Hampton COX and Martha Moore MATHEWS, on 12 May 1847 in Autauga County, Alabama.²

Caroline M. RAMSEY and William Henry Eaton COX appeared as head of household on a census enumerated 16 October 1850 in Washington, Autauga County, Alabama. The household was listed as Wm. H. Cox, a 26-year-old farmer, and Caroline, his 18-year-old wife. She was born in Georgia. They had one child, James W., one-year-old.³

     Reuben ABNEY, son of Dannett ABNEY Jr. and Mary MEREDITH, was born in 1749 in Virginia.

Reuben ABNEY was named an heir in the will of Dannett ABNEY Jr. dated 3 November 1756 in Hanover County, Virginia. Item I give and bequeathe unto my son Reuben Abney this tract of land in Hanover county whereon I now live, and a negro girl called Nanney.¹

Reuben ABNEY died on 27 November 1809 in Halifax County, Virginia.²

     Sarah ABNEY was named an heir in the will of Dannett ABNEY Jr. dated 3 November 1756 in Hanover County, Virginia. Item I empower my executors to sell a Tract of Land in Hallifax County laying on a branch commonly called Lick branch; containing eight hundred acres, which money after paying my lawful debts to be equally divided amongst my wife Mary Abney, Reubin Abney, Ruth Sharrar & Sarrah Abney.¹

     Maacah ABNEY was named an heir in the will of Dannett ABNEY Jr. dated 3 November 1756 in Hanover County, Virginia. I give and bequeathe unto my son in Law Thomas Spragens a Tract of Land in Lunenburg County containing one hundred and seven acres and also in Hallifax County a tract of Land two hundred and fifty acres.¹

Maacah married Thomas SPRAGGINS, daughter of Martha ABNEY, in 1759 in Henrico County, Virginia.²

     John Key ABNEY, son of Abner ABNEY and Anne Key, was born circa 1745 in Albemarle County, Virginia. John Key ABNEY also went by the name of John "The Hatter" as his occupation was hat maker or habadasher.¹

John Key ABNEY was named an heir in the will of Abner ABNEY dated 25 September 1751 in Albemarle County, Virginia.² He obtained a marriage license on 10 July 1769 in Augusta County, Virginia. This proves that by this date John had left Albermarle County and settled in Augusta County.¹

John married Isabella Van Lear on 10 July 1769 in Staunton, Augusta County, Virginia.

By 22 November 1769 John Key ABNEY was engaged in the occupation of hat maker in Augusta County, Virginia. On that date James Denniston was sentenced to 39 lashes for breaking into John's shop.³

John Key ABNEY was granted land 8 July 1772 in Augusta County, Virginia. Lots 11, 16 and another joining 11; also 120 acres in Beverley Manor.⁴

John Key ABNEY was appointed constable on 20 November 1776 in Augusta County, Virginia.⁵ He was buried in Abney Family Cemetery, Fishersville, Augusta County, Virginia.⁶

John Key ABNEY died in 1788 in Staunton, Augusta County, Virginia.

John left a will dated 14 June 1788 in Staunton, Augusta County, Virginia. To wife, Isabella; to son, William; to the rest of the children; to son, John; son William to carry on the Hatting Trade. Mentions a plantation in Albermarle County near Charlottesville. 275 acres on both sides of the Great Road that leads from Staunton to Jennings Gap. Also mentions "my lands in the western county...except...my lands on Green River which I allow for my son John as his part of the western lands." Executrix, Isabella. Teste: Wm. Chambers, Alex.Humphreys. Proved, 16th September. 1788, by the witnesses. Isabella qualifies.⁷

John Key ABNEY The following details are from a 3 Apr 1815 lawsuit, Patrick vs. Abney. In 1788, John Abney of Staunten died, testate (he was a hatter), leaving wife Isabella and 7 children, viz.: William; Margaret, who married Phillip North, now deceased; John; Nancy, who married John Hicklin, now deceased; Sarah, who married Robert McClenachan; Patsy, who married Peter Hogg; and Polly. John Abney lives in Kentucky. Hog and his wife live in Mason County. John Gunn was a hatter in Staunton in 1789. Jacob Peck was a butcher. William Abney was born 8th August and was in 23nd year when married. He was 16 at father's death. Mrs. Robertson was William's aunt. William went to Pittsburg in 1794 against the insurgents. Willliam went to Parson Chambers' school. in 1788 in Staunton, Augusta County, Virginia.⁸

     Mary SPRAGGINS, daughter of Martha ABNEY, was born in 1735 in Halifax County, Virginia.

Mary SPRAGGINS died on 31 August 1782 in Halifax County, Virginia. She was buried in Clarkton Cemetery, Clarkton, Halifax County, Virginia.¹

     Lucy Collins, daughter of Joseph Collins and Lucy Marchbanks, was born in 1746 in Halifax County, Virginia. She was also known as Lucy Norrell according to early Abney researchers. Later research casts doubt on this and strongly suggests instead that she was a Collins.

Lucy married Dr. Nathaniel ABNEY, son of Dr. Abraham ABNEY and Cassandra MEREDITH, circa 1761 in Virginia.²

About a year after Dr. Nathaniel's untimely demise in 1767, his widow moved her family to Edgefield County to be nearer her family for help with the children. She seems to have died there about four years later.

Lucy Collins appeared as head of household on a census enumerated 1790 in Edgefield County, South Carolina. The household was listed as one male 16+ [Paul Collins Abney], two males under 16 [Joseph and Nathaniel Abney], three females [Lucy Collins Abney, Dolly Rutherford Abney, and either Cassandra (widow of Dr. Abraham Abney) or another daughter].³ She was buried in Kelly's Chapel Cemetery.

Lucy Collins died in 1790 in Edgefield County, South Carolina.

     John ABNEY, son of Dr. Abraham ABNEY and Cassandra MEREDITH, was born circa 1741 in Henrico County, Virginia.¹ John ABNEY also went by the name of "Gentleman John". He was a Deputy Surveyor and judge of the Quorum Court in Edgefield County, South Carolina.²

John ABNEY and Paul ABNEY were granted land 5 February 1798 in Edgefield County, South Carolina. There were two separate grants, received on the same date and in the same area.³

John ABNEY died in 1832 in Edgefield County, South Carolina.⁴

     (?) married Paul ABNEY, son of Dannett ABNEY Sr. and Mary LEE.

     Paul ABNEY, son of Dr. Abraham ABNEY and Cassandra MEREDITH, was born in 1744 in Virginia.¹ He was a farmer and a shoemaker. He was also known as Pvt. Paul.

Paul married Eleanor HAMILTON, daughter of Unknown HAMILTON, circa 1765 in South Carolina. This date is a very rough estimate based on their birth dates.

According to Raymond R. Abney in the "Abney Family Researcher" newsletter, "Thomas Hamilton Abney b. ca. 1792, claimed that this Paul Abney was 'own' [i.e. first] cousin to his grandfather, Samuel Abney. Since Dr. Abraham Abney's family went to South Carolina; and George Abney's sons and one daughter went to South Carolina, I believe Dr. Abraham is the uncle (of Samuel) who sired Paul (Samuel's first cousin). Earlier researchers believed Dr. Nathaniel Abney had a brother named Paul. I believe they were 'accidentally' correct, but they had the wrong Paul! They had Pvt. Paul Abney/Abner. The correct Paul was actually Paul Abney who married Eleanor Hamilton!"²

Paul ABNEY appeared as Head of Household on the census of 1779 in Old 96 District, South Carolina. The census also included these related households: Samuel ABNEY Sr., Dannett ABNEY, Nathaniel ABNEY and Capt. William ABNEY.³

During the American Revolution Paul served in the South Carolina Upper Ninety-Six militia under Col. Robert Anderson and Gen. Andrew Pickens. He also made the shoes for Samuel Hammond's regiment of Light Dragoons.⁴

Paul ABNEY purchased a government land patent 1785 in Ninety-Six District, South Carolina. The land plat was for 136 acres on Tosetys Creek and the Saluda River. It was surveyed by Phillip Waters. It was bordered by land of Martha Abney, Paul Abney, and Sarah McQueen.⁵

Paul ABNEY appeared as head of household on a census enumerated 1790 in Edgefield County, South Carolina. The household was listed as two males age 16 and older (Paul, ?), one male under 16 (John, and five females (Eleanor, Jane, Mary, Tabitha, Martha).

The land of Paul ABNEY adjoined land sold by Nathaniel ABNEY to John ABNEY 30 January 1792 Edgefield County, South Carolina. The land was on the long branch of Tosety Creek and adjoined the widow Abney[Harriett?], Paul Abney, and Alexander Kenida[Kennedy].⁶

Paul ABNEY was the administrator of John Hamilton's estate in 1793 in Edgefield, Edgefield County, South Carolina. Buyers in the state sale included Paul Abney, John Abney, William Kennedy, Nathaniel Abney, Dannett Abney, Elijah Pope Abney and Joel Abney.⁷

Paul ABNEY and John ABNEY were granted land 5 February 1798 in Edgefield County, South Carolina. There were two separate grants, received on the same date and in the same area.⁸

Paul ABNEY appeared on the 1800 Federal Census of Edgefield County, South Carolina, One maile 16-25 [Jonathan], one maile 45 or older [Paul], 3 females 10-15, one femaile 16-25, and one female 45 or older [Eleanor].

Paul ABNEY bought a tract of land from John ABNEY on 11 February 1800 in Edgefield County, South Carolina. For $100 he sold 425 acres being part of 900 acres originally granted to said John Abney on Tosetys Creek of Saluda River, adjacent to land of James Carson now belonging to Major Thomas Butler. Witnesses were William W. Abney and James Barnes. Signed by John Abney. Proven 11 Feb 1800 by William and Nathaniel Abney JP. Recorded 26 Mar 1800.⁹

Paul ABNEY bought a tract of land from John ABNEY on 11 February 1800 in Edgefield County, South Carolina. For $100 he sold 425 acres being part of 900 acres originally granted to said John Abney on Tosetys Creek of Saluda River. adjacent lands of James Carson now belonging to Major Thomas Buller. Witnesses were William W. Abney and James Barnes. It was signed by John Abney and proven 11 Feb 1800 by William Abney. Nathaniel Abney, JP. Recorded 26 Mar 1800.¹⁰

Paul ABNEY was the administrator of John Hamilton's estate on 14 September 1804 in Edgefield, Edgefield County, South Carolina. Appraisers of the estate in 1805 were John Abney, Jr., William Kennedy, James Barnes, and William Spraggins.

The land of Paul ABNEY adjoined land sold by Jonathan ABNEY to Dr. John Bolger 1 March 1805 Edgefield County, South Carolina. Land on Tosetys Creek bounded on northeast by William Kennedy, Paul Abney and James Barnes, on southeast by James Summers, south by Crook Fork Branch of Tossestys Creek and said Bolger's plantation, northeast to wagon road from Saluda Old Town towards Charleston, up said road to a cross road leading to Paul Abneys, the bounds of William Kennedy's land on said Charleston road, along said cross road to where William Kennedy now lives, originally to Alexander Kennedy, dec'd.¹¹

Paul ABNEY sold land to Jonathan ABNEY on 5 June 1811 in Edgefield (now Saluda) County, South Carolina. Paul Abney to John Abney Sr, deed, five June [not readable], $200, 150 acres it being part of 900 Acres originally granted to above mentioned John Abney on 6 July 1789, a part of which the above-mentioned is a part was conveyed by said John Abney to said Paul Abney, situated on head of Tosetys Creek of Saluda River adjacent lines of William Spraggins, John Abney Sr., land surveyed for David Hendricks. Witnesses John Abney Jr., Urbane Nicholson, Lark Abney. Signed Paul Abney. Justice Sampson Pope certified relinquishment of Dower rights by Eleanor Abney wife of Paul Abney, 6 July 1811. Signed Eleanor Abney. Proven 16 November 1812 by Urbane Nicholson, William Spraggins J.P. Recorded 2 Nov 1813.¹²

Eleanor died on 17 September 1819 in South Carolina leaving Paul ABNEY as a widower.^1,13

Paul left a will dated 24 October 1819 in Edgefield (now Saluda) County, South Carolina. I give to my son John Abney five negroes namely: Juda, Sarah, Mary, Ben and Sam. He is to pay his sisters 100 dollars each in twelve months after receiving the negroes. Daughter Jane Barnes an equal part, also one horse value at $80.00. Daughter Martha Patterson an equal part, also her son Paul Abney Patterson to get one half of the track of land on West end of the land I now live on. His parents to have use of land until he is twenty-one years old. Daughter Mary [Boulware], equal part. Daughter Tabitha Hicks an equal part, also one track of land on the head of Tarsity [Tosity?] Creek. Daughter Elizabeth Black, an equal part, also other half of the land I gave to Paul Abney Patterson. Make John Chapman and John Abney executors. Signed: Paul Abney, seal. Witnesses: John Chapman, Agatha Abney and Sophia Chapman. Recorded 20 Jan 1821.¹⁴

Paul ABNEY died on 27 December 1820 in Edgefield County, South Carolina.^1,15 He was buried in Barnes' Graveyard, Saluda County, South Carolina.

     Eleanor HAMILTON was born in 1749 in Virginia , daughter of Unknown HAMILTON.^1,2

According to one family story, her brother was British brigidier general, Sir John Hamilton of Fort Ticonderoga, and her sister was reputed to be a Russian princess. This has not been verified.

In another version in a 1915 DAR magazine it is said by some that she was from Norfolk, Virginia and was the sister of a British officer. Other family members asserted that she was the daugther of Colonel John Hamilton, son of Archibald Hamilton of Augusta County, Virginia. She was the granddaughter of Audley Harrison Hamilton and Eleanor Adams of Ireland. Eleanor H. Abney had a younger brother, Thomas Hamilton, killed at or just before Kings Mountain.^3,4

Eleanor married Paul ABNEY, son of Dr. Abraham ABNEY and Cassandra MEREDITH, circa 1765 in South Carolina. This date is a very rough estimate based on their birth dates.

She was probably the female over age 44 listed in the household of her husband, Paul ABNEY, in the 1800 Federal Census of Edgefield County, South Carolina.

On 17 September 1819 Eleanor died in South Carolina leaving Paul a widower.^1,5

     Dr. Nathaniel ABNEY, son of Dr. Abraham ABNEY and Cassandra MEREDITH, was born circa 1729 in Halifax County, Virginia.¹ He was a physician. Prior to becoming a physician, Nathaniel was a saddler.

Nathaniel married Lucy Collins, daughter of Joseph Collins and Lucy Marchbanks, circa 1761 in Virginia.¹

Dr. Nathaniel ABNEY moved from Halifax County, Virginia to Old 96 District, South Carolina, circa 1765 He lived in that part of 96 District which became Union county. He moved c1786 to Winton county in the Orangeburgh District. Winton was later renamed Barnwell county.

Dr. Abney was also a surveyor, magistrate, and commissioner of roads in Barnwell District. He raised horses and probably raced them on nearby Maybinton Racetrack.²

In Halifax County, Virginia Deed Book 9, p. 385....it states: "Feb. 18, 1775 from Abraham Abney and Nathaniel Abney of Lone Cane Mills, S.C. and 96th District..........Lucy, the wife of the said Nathaniel, personally appeared in court and relinqished her right of dower....." March 16, 1775. [Note: Long Cane Creek is near Abbeville which in 1775 was in Old 96 District]

Nathaniel saw military service in the American Revolution circa 1780 in South Carolina serving as a physician and militiaman in Col. Thomas Brandon's 2nd Spartan Regiment. He possibly attended Gen. Sumter's wounds at the Battle of Blackstock's Farm. He also performed duty in the Sandhills under Capt. William Watson

There is a belief that during the Revolution, Dr. Nathaniel sent his family to live in North Carolina for safety as the war was being fought all around their home. This is a good theory and would account for the large gap in the births of his children.³

Dr. Nathaniel ABNEY was included on a tax list in 1782 in Capt. Russell's Company, Rutherford County, North Carolina. He was taxed £300 for five Negroes and four horses.⁴

Dr. Nathaniel ABNEY died on 1 July 1787 in Union County, South Carolina. He was killed in a duel with another physician.⁵ He was buried in Kelly's Chapel Cemetery.

     Pvt. Paul ABNEY, son of John ABNEY I and Isabella (?), was born circa 1755 in Albemarle County, Virginia.^1,2 He was also known as Paul Abner.³ He was a blacksmith and a farmer.

During the American Revolution, Pvt. Paul ABNEY enlisted in the 14th Virginia Continental Line in December 1777 in Charlottesville, Albemarle County, Virginia. He enlisted as a private and served seven years. He was engaged in the battles of Brandywine, Eutaw Springs, Sand Hills and Guilford Courthouse. A muster roll compiled at Chesterfield Courthouse after 1 Sep 1780 included Paul Abner, age 21, height 5' 10", blacksmith, born and residing in Albemarle County, light hair, hazel eyes, dark complexion, enlisted Dec 1777 for the duration of the war. Some sources say he was wounded in the lower chest at Guilford Courthouse 15 Mar1781. It is unlikely that Paul was seriously wounded as discribed at Guilford Courthouse and recovered in time for further duty in 1781 [Sand Hills (Battle of Hobkirk Hill, 25 Apr 1781) and Eutaw Springs 8 Sep 1781]. More likely that he was wounded at Brandywine 11 Sep 1777.

Paul married Rhoda NORMAN in March 1785 in Greenville County, South Carolina. She was the daughter of Eli and Sary Ann Norman. He moved with his family to Tennessee about 1795.

Pvt. Paul ABNEY died on 15 June 1815 in Jackson County, Tennessee. He was buried in Brushy Cemetery, Harco, Saline County, Illinois. This is a memorial marker only.