Return to Currituck Co.
The Descendants of Benjamin Bennett
by
Elizabeth Doherty Herzfeld
First Generation
1. Benjamin BENNETT was born about 1640 probably in England. He received a 1668 land patent[1], registered in 1712 by his grandson, from the most Noble Henry Duke of Beadfort Pallatine for 118 acres and 24 poles in Currituck precinct of Albemarle joining the side of a cypress swamp, at 2 shillings per acre rent due every 29th day of September. This was probably for two headrights at 50 acres a piece. I noticed other odd acre amounts in patents for other people in Currituck. This patent is mentioned in some deeds of his descendants and others.
Most people living in Currituck had occupations related to the sea.
On 30 July 1767, Nicholas Nichols of Currituck County, ship carpenter, sold to William Bright of same place, for the consideration of 35 pounds current money of North Carolina, land by the dividing line between Joseph Haman and Marmaduke Cox (who was former owner of the land), the patent line, Main Road, Light Swamp, formerly patented by Benjamin Bennet and conveyed to Thomas Cox and by him devised to his son Edward Cox[2].
Benjamin and his spouse had the following children:
+ 2 M i. John BENNETT was born about 1669 and died in 1710.
3 M ii. Joseph BENNETT was born about 1671 and died about 1723. Joseph married Anne about 1696 in Currituck. Anne was born[3] about 1675. Joseph’s will is dated 9 Mar 1721/22, proved 9 Apr 1723 in Currituck Precinct names sons: Joseph, William, Samuel, John, daughters: Mary Sayrs, Allice Bennet and wife: Anne. Executors Anne Bennet, wife, and Joseph Bennet, son. Witnesses John Wilson, Edward Cox. James Wicker, Clerk of Court[4].
Albemarle County court records: Jenkin Williams sold land to Joseph Bennit for 9 lbs 10 sh in 1698. Joseph was found in default and agreed to pay on 18 Oct 1697[5]. (I wonder if it was recorded in 1698?)
Joseph and Anne had the following children:
6 M i. Joseph BENNETT was born[6] about 1697 in Currituck County, North Carolina. Joseph received 101 acres of land in his father's will[7]. Joseph was probably not married at the time of his father's death. He was admonished not to interfere with Thomas Sayrs right to timber from the land given to his sister Mary after her death.
7 M ii. William BENNETT was born[8] about 1699 in Currituck County, North Carolina. He’s mentioned in his father's will[9].
8 M iii. Samuel BENNETT was born[10] about 1701 in Currituck County, North Carolina. He’s mentioned in his father's will[11]. Samuel received 84 acres of land lying at the head of William Stafford's land joining Richard Bright and Frances Jones. Samuel was probably not married at the time of his father's death. It stated that if Samuel dies without heirs the land would go to his brother John and if John should die without heirs the land would go to his sister Alice.
9 M iv. John BENNETT was born[12] about 1703 in Currituck County, North Carolina. He is mentioned in his father's will[13]. He was probably not married at the time of his father's death. There was a John Bennett on the 1715 tax list for Currituck[14].
10 F v. Mary BENNETT was born[15] about 1705 in Currituck County, North Carolina. She married Thomas Sayrs before 1722[16]. Mary received 50 acres of land for her life. After her death the land goes to her brother, Joseph with the provision that Thomas Sayrs has a right to timber on the land without wast (sic).
11 F vi. Alice BENNETT was born[17] about 1707 in Currituck County, North Carolina. She is mentioned in her father's will[18].
Second Generation
2. John BENNETT (Benjamin) was born[19] about 1669 in Currituck County, North Carolina. He died[20] in 1710 in Currituck. John married Mary STROWDE, daughter of John STROWDE and ? NESCUT, about 1690. Mary was born[21] about 1670. In John's will he mentions 250 pounds Mary received from her grandfather Richard Nescut of South Pedecton in Somersettshire, England. She and her sister, Elizabeth, received all of her father's estate.
John and Mary may have had a daughter named Mary. In Oct 1705 John Hodgson brought a lawsuit against John Bennett saying that Bennett owed him 40 pounds for marrying Bennett's daughter Mary. Bennett said John Hodgson never married his daughter Mary or any other daughter of his[22]. However, the families seem to be connected in some way.
Mary Hodgson, wife of John Hodgson, may have been the daughter of Robert Heath. Esebel Bennett Burnham, wife of Benjamin Bennett (5), may have been a descendant of Robert Heath[23].
John Hodgson’s will dated 15 Aug 1712 (no probate) Wife: Mary all my estate Joseph Bennet, son of John received a cow and calf from this will. Other bequests made to several Heaths[24]. John Hodgson probably didn’t have any surviving children.
Albemarle County: 27 Apr 1695[25], Edward Jones, Sr. stole a cow from John Stroud, John Bennet posted surrety.
John Bennett sold a servant girl (probably an indentured servant) to Benjamin Tulle in Currituck in 1699[26].
In another suit against John Bennett, John Hodgson gave 100 pounds bond so John Bennett would not have to go to Jail while pending trial on another matter. John Bennett was sick at the time and could not get to the court hearing when he was summoned. As mentioned before, John Hodgson also left a bequest in his will to Joseph Bennett, son of John. I think all this makes a strong case for some familial connection between the two families.
In Patent Book one “John Bennitt, a Swamp, the mouth of the said swamp, and said Moyack Creek /s/ Robt. Daniell, Tho. Pollock, Wm. Glover, John Arderne, 3 Nov 1704[27]. Thomas Coe patent adjacent John Bennitt and William Strafford south side of Majock Creek in Curatuck Precinct[28], 25 Feb 1696”
On 26 April 1709, Proved: 15 July 1709, John Bennett of Currituck County discharges Andw. Etheridge of any quitrents by virtue of a bill of sale dated 23 August 1701. Witnesses Willoby Marchant; Richard Balance, Signed John Bennett; Andw. (x) Etheridge[29].
In the will of John Bennet of Corotuck (sic) Precinct in Albemarle County dated 10 Dec 1710 (no probate)[30] he left a portion of lands devised to use of poor "old men and women who have been honest, etc." and a portion left for education of poor children. Son: Joseph 324 acres joining Back Ride (excepting 2 acres for a Chappel). Son Benjamin the other half of said tract. If neither of the above have an heir, then to my cousin William Jones in North Hamptonshire. Wife: Mary to enjoy the plantation during her life Son Benjamin the tract I bought from John Nicker joining Edward Jones, Sr. (could this be a cousin?) with reversion to his brother Joseph; but if neither have an heir, then to my brother Joseph. Said sons to have certain livestock with reversion to my cousin …..ers Frith. 350 acres on Moyoke Creek to be sold and the money to buy ….? and my wife to have use of them. 40 shillings to pay for the schooling of 2 poor children for 1 year. My wife had received 250£ from her grandfather Richard Nescut of South Pedecton In Sumersett Shire in Old England. Adopted son Sampson Goldard land during his life. Other legacies. Executors: wife Mary, son Joseph (and my son Benjamin to succeed him if necessary) Witnesses: George Thomson, Ann Thomson, Edward (x) Cox, Edward (x) Stafford[31].
John and Mary had the following children:
4 M i. Joseph BENNETT was born about 1691 in Currituck County, North Carolina. I wonder if Joseph married a daughter of Nehemiah Heath/Hath. Joseph’s father left him 324 acres. This was half of his father’s land minus two acres for a chapel. If Joseph had no heirs the land would have gone to his cousin, William Jones of (not stated) No. Hamptonshire, England.
Pg. 44; Item 246[32]
Will of John HODGSON dated 15 Aug 1712, No
Probate Date
"Sick & weak of body"
Mary Hodgson all my estate
Robt. Heath's eldest son Nehemiah to have my mill
Robt. Heath's daughter to have iron pott, pewter
dish
Thomas Heath to have vest & coat
Thomas Heath's eldest daughter to have a cow &
calf
John Wood to have clothes
Ann Heath, Jr. to have dishes
James Haith's (sic) 2 children to have 2 heifers
Ann Heath, Sr. to have a bed
William S____? to have my long gun
Robert Heath to have gun
Joseph Bennet, son of Jno.,
to have cow & calf
Robert Heath to have my Bible [I wish I could get my hands on that!]
Executrix: wife Mary
Witness: Adam Benng(?)
Could they have been step-children or nieces and nephews?
In Patent Book one #825 pg. 275, Joseph Bennitt 3 Apr 1719 150 acres on the head of the Division line, joining the creek, /s/ Charles Eden, Thos. Pollock, Fred. Jones, Richd. Sanderson, Wm. Reed, Fra. Foster[33].
+ 5 M ii. Benjamin BENNETT was born about 1693 and died about 1742.
Third Generation
5. Benjamin BENNETT (John, Benjamin) was born[34] about 1693 in Currituck County, North Carolina. He died[35].about 1742 in Currituck. Benjamin married Esebel (Isabel) [-?-] about 1715. Esebel was born about 1693 and died[36].about 1749 in Currituck.
Benjamin's father left him 324 acres (half of his father's land minus 2 acres for a chapel) and half the land he bought of Joseph Nicker adjoining Edward Jones[37]. If Benjamin has no heirs the land was to go to his Uncle Joseph Bennett.
Patent Book One, pg. 266 #790 Benjamin Bennit received 151 acres in Currituck precinct joining a Creek and the division line between him and his brother on 10 Feb 1718. Patent Book Three, pg. 191 #2295 Benjamin Bennet received 147 acres in Curratuck precinct joining the fork of Martins Creek issuing out of the North West River, Fishing Creek, and a little Creek coming out of the said river on 1 Nov 1727. Patent Book Eight Benjamin had a warrant for 200 acres, 186 acres were surveyed for him on 10 Dec 1715 in Currituck precinct joining Edward Jones and Benja. Bennet (meaning his own land) on 6 Oct 1716. Patent Book Eight, pg. 112 # 2686, North Carolina Benjamin received a warrant for 83 acres in Currituck precinct joining Richard Bright's run. It was surveyed for him on 9 Oct 1716[38].
Bennett, Benjamin was on the Currituck County tax list for 1715[39]. He was a freeholder in 1723, Currituck Precinct, listed as Benjamin Bennett (Chowan). Perhaps he was living or working in Chowan at the time[40].
Other records that mention Benjamin Bennett were:
Inventory of James Gormack ordered 11 Jan 1725, taken by Elizth. Gormack widow
and executrix. Appraised 2 Apr 1726 by Moses Linton, Benjn. Bennet, Jno.
Linton. Proved 12 Apr 1726 before J. Martyn[41].
In July 1726 Benjn. Bennett along with Thomas Lowther were offered Securitys for the defendant in the court case Parris vs. Roe[42]. I would think this should be they offered security.
On the 1729 tax list Benjamin had 938 acres in Currituck precinct of Albamarle. Account of the receipt of one-half of the arrears of His Majesty's quite rents for Albemarle County from September 1729 to March 1732, computed at the difference of seven for one pound sterling in the currency of the province - 12 June 1735. The arrears of quit rents were: 16 £ 8 S 1 D[43].
Benj. Bennett was on the Jurymen list from Currituck County[44].
In the Administrators Bond of Benjamin Bennett dated 14 Jul 1742, Moses Linton and George Powers were surety, Witnesses were Andrew Duke, Levi Stewart and John Bennett (possibly the cousin of Benjamin). The bond calls Esebel, the widow of Benjamin Bennett[45].
Esebel married 2nd ? Burnham possibly James.
Abstract[46]
Will of Esebel (x) Burnham, widow, dated 1 Jan 1749/50,
Probate: Apr Court 1753
Of Corrotuck County "very Sick and Weak in
Body"
Son: Solomon Bennett iron pot trammels
Son: John Bennett iron pot trammels
Son: Nehemiah Bennet 10£ VA money, etc.
Daughter: Avila feather bed, etc.
Daughter: Susias 10£ VA money, etc.
Granddaughter: Esebel Mill (sic) feather bead, etc.
Daughter: Abiar 5£ VA money, etc.
Granddaughter: Esebel Armstrong 1 box irm
Grandson: Benjamin Miller iron pot.
Executor: son, Nehemiah Bennett
Witnesses: George Burges, Willis Miller, Philip Northern
Lower Norfolk County, Virginia Records:
The wife of Richard Church was named Abiah. He had dealings with Moses Linton. Moses Miller left to his cousin Isb Bennet, my horse, in his will dated 15 Nov 1739[47].
Benjamin and Esebel had the following children:
+ 12 M i. Solomon BENNETT was born about 1717 and died between 23 Mar 1753 and Mar 1755.
13 M ii. John BENNETT was born[48] about 1719 in Currituck County, North Carolina. Called son in the will of Esebel Burnham. I wonder if John could have married Elizabeth Bright, daughter of Richard Bright, and had a son Richard, who married Elizabeth an heir of Azakum Parker.
John Benet of Currituck County’s Inventory included 2 negro boys and 1 old woman (not named). Proved 27 Mar 1753 by Sarah Benet (John's wife?) before George Powers[49].
14 M iii. Nehemiah BENNETT was born about 1721 He died[50] between 11 Mar and Apr 1753 in Currituck. Nehemiah married Elizabeth [-?-] about 1746. She was born[51] about 1724.
He was called son in the will of Esebel Burnham. In his will he names sons John, Josiah, and daughter Susan Bennet, wife and Executriz, Elizabeth, Witnesses: James Burnham, George Davis and Soloman Bennet, William Shergold, Clerk of Courts, Currituck County, North Carolina[52].
pg. 6; item 59 and 60[53]
Included in the inventory of Nehemiah Benet’s estate were
2 negroes (not named). Proved by Elizabeth Bennet before George Powers. Both
Nehemiah and his brother John's inventories were probated on the same day.
Robert Heath’s eldest son was named Nehemiah.
Nehemiah and Elizabeth had the following children:
1. John BENNETT was born[54] about 1747 in Currituck County, North Carolina. John may have married Catherine. There is a deed in Currituck County[55] between John Bennett and Catherine his wife and Samuel Salyiarson dated 1 Nov 1792. This 9-1/2 acres of land had been given by Samuel Salyearson, dec'd to Joseph Sanderson[56].
2. Josiah BENNETT was born about 1749 in Currituck County, North Carolina. His will[57] was dated 8 Mar 1771 and proved 24 Aug 1771. He probably didn’t marry because he left his sister, Euphan one negroe woman called Cate and a negroe girl called Frank with their increase forever, one cow, calf, and gun. His brother, John received everything of his property within doors and without. Could Euphan be Susan or did his mother have another child after the death of his father?
3. Susan BENNETT was born[58] about 1751 in Currituck County, North Carolina.
15 F iv. Abiah BENNETT was born about 1723 in Currituck County, North Carolina. She died[59] after 28 Mar 1753 in Currituck. Afia/Abia married John Armstrong before 1740, probably in Currituck. She is mentioned in her mothers will along with her daughter, Isabel Armstrong.
16 F v. Susias BENNETT was born[60] about 1725 in Currituck County, North Carolina. Susias married ? Miller and had Benjamin and Esebel (Isabel), who were mentioned in their grandmother, Esebel Bennett Burnham's will.
Fourth Generation
12. Solomon BENNETT (Benjamin, John, Benjamin) was born[61] about 1717 in Currituck County, North Carolina. He died[62] between 23 Mar 1753 and Mar 1755 in Currituck. He was called son in will of Esebel Burnham. Solomon married Darkes [-?-] about 1742 in Currituck. Darkes was born[63] about 1723 in Currituck. She received the rest of his estate during her life to be divided among the children after that.
Solomon Bennett’s will dated 23 Mar 1753, Probated Mar
Court 1755
Son: Moses: my land, cow & calf
Son: Bengamen 150 acres on Moyork Creak, cow &
calf
Daughter: Rebecker Bennet cow & calf
Daughter: Mary Bennet cow & calf
Daughter: Betsse Bennet feather bed & furniture
Wife: Darkes negro fellow Ship until all my children come
of age & then he to be divided among them
Executrix: wife Darkes
Witnesses: Phillip Northern, Mary Ethrigs,
Timuthy Ethrigs
Solomon and Darkes had the following children:
+ 17 M i. Moses BENNETT was born[64] about 1743 in Currituck County, North Carolina.
18 M ii. John BENNETT was born about 1745 in Currituck County, North Carolina. John married Lydia [-?-][65]. Lydia was named in "The Morning Chronicle and London Advertiser", on 16 Jan 1775[66], as one of the Edonton women who refused to use tea imported through Great Britain[67].
John and Lydia may have had two sons: Jesse and Carter. Jesse married Euphon Ballentine. Euphon's sister, Lydia Ballentine, also married a Bennett[68] Euphon was the daughter of Henry and Mary Ballentine. Jesse died between 9 Aug 1794 and 20 Jan 1795. In his will he mentions his wife, not named, daughters: Frances Poyner, Presseller Sorey, Bridjet and Sarah. The will of Euphan Bennett dated 18 Mar 1806, proved 31 May 1808 mentions daughter, Sarah Jones and son-in-law William Jones. On 10 Jan 1793 Jesse and Euphon Bennett sold ? acres for 40 pounds to Carter Bennett[69].
Jesse and Euphon Bennett’s daughter Pricilla married Samuel Sorey/Sorcy/Sarcy and Frances married ? Powers/Poyner. ? Poyner/Powers married 2nd Lydia Martin[70].
Carter married Sarah [-?-] and they had Elizabeth. He died between 4 Feb 1799 and 7 Mar 1799 in Currituck County, North Carolina[71]. His will mentions wife, Sarah, daughter, Elizabeth Bennett. Elizabeth was orphaned, her first Guardian was Davis Ballentine and in 1810 it was Aaron Bright.
I don't know if all the following information belongs to this John Bennett.
Source: The State Records of North Carolina; Collected & Edited by Walter Clark, Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of North Carolina; Originally printed by Nash Brothers Book and Job Printers in 1907; Reprinted (and indexed) by Broadfoot Publishing County, Wilmington, North Carolina in 1994 Currituck County, North Carolina Deed Bk. 2 (1756-1773)
Vol. 16 (1782-1783); pg. 1011
Ibid; pg. 1023 Roster of Troops
10th Regiment
Name: Bennett, John, pt.
Companies: Raiford's
Dates of Commissions & Enlistments: 1782
Periods of Service: 18 months
Occurrences: Dest'd. 11 June 1783
** Pg. 528 12 Dec 1772
“Francis Williamson and wife Kezia of Currituck County,
to John Bennett, for the consideration of 30 pounds proclamation money, 50 acres
which was part of the land sold by Benjamin Bennett to William Bright and from
him to grantor. Beginning at a corner chestnut oak in said John Bennett's line,
north by a line of marked trees to a corner maple in Moses Bennett's line, east
to a cross line, south along the cross line to John Bennett's line, west to 1st
station. Witnesses: Mary (x) Boren, Elizabeth (+) Hutchens, S. Bright Signed:
Francis Williamson”
** Pg. 480 8 Feb 1774
“John Binnet and wife Lydia of Currituck County sold to
Silas Bright of Currituck County, for 35 pounds proclamation money, 50 acres
which was part of the land patented by Benjamin Bennet, dec'd., beginning at a
corner holly of Josiah Bowren and Silas Bright's line, north by a line of marked
trees to a beech in Moses Bennet's line, to a corner gum in Jesse Bennet's line,
west to a corner oak in Silas Bright's line, east to the 1st station. Witnesses:
Josiah Bowren, Moses Bennett, James Ferebee Signed: John Bennett; Lydia (8)
Bennett”
19 M iii. Benjamin BENNETT was born[72] about 1747 in Currituck County, North Carolina. He died[73] before 5 Dec 1770 in Currituck. Benjamin's father left him 50 acres of land lying on the Moyork Creek, Currituck, a cow and calf, in his will.
** Currituck County, North Carolina Deed Bk. 2
(1756-1773) Pg. 253 19 July 1770
“Benjamin Bennett of Currituck County,
planter, to William Bright, for the consideration of 100 pound current money of
North Carolina, 100 acres of land patented by Benjamin Bennitt, dec'd., in 1668,
beginning at a white oak at the head, S10W68 poles of a holley, " between him
and his brother". Witnesses: James Burnham, Moses Bennett, Anna (b) Burnham
(this is probably James Burnham, Jr. and his wife Anna Margaret) Signed:
Benjamin (b) Bennett”
20 F iv. Rebecker BENNETT was born[74] about 1749 in Currituck County, North Carolina. Rebecker received a cow and calf in her father's will.
21 F v. Mary BENNETT was born[75] about 1751 in Currituck County, North Carolina. Mary received a cow and calf in her father's will.
22 F vi. Betsse BENNETT was born[76] about 1753 in Currituck County, North Carolina. Betsse received one feather bed and furniture in her father's will.
17. Moses BENNETT was born[77] about 1743 in Currituck County, North Carolina. He died[78] between 16 Feb and 27 Apr 1787 in Currituck. Moses received his father's plantation and a cow and calf from his father's estate. Moses married Mary about 1768 in Currituck. Mary was born[79] about 1745. She probably died[80] before 3 Jan 1783 in Currituck. She is not mentioned in the 1783 deed between Moses and James Ferebee. Mary signed the deed with her mark "C", 4 Mar 1773.
A Moses Bennett served as a Pvt. in the Revolutionary War in Col. Jethro Sumner's 3rd Regiment of the Continental line under Eaton. He served 2 1/2 years and was discharged 10 Nov 1778. He received a warrant for 304 acres for 40 months of service on 22 Apr 1785. It was deeded to Col. Long, this was probably Nich. Long who picked up the wages for Moses in Warrenton[81]. After doing further research it appears that this is not our ancestor. The Moses Bennett found on the 1790 and 1800 U.S. Census in Warren County, North Carolina is probably the one who was in the war. Our Moses didn't have that much land when he died although it looks like Nich. Long bought the warrants. A search of Warren County Deeds should bear this out. The wife of Moses Bennett found on the DAR website was named Zilpha.
His children are listed in the order they appear in his will. The dates of birth were estimated from the approximate age of his son Matthew Bennett, who I have researched. The 1790 U.S. Census for Currituck County only lists Moses' probable nephews Jessie and Carter. Perhaps his children were living in another household.
WILL OF MOSES BENNETT OF CURRITUCK COUNTY, North Carolina Dated 16 Feb 1787, Probated 27 Apr 1787[82]
In the name of God Amen. I Moses Bennett of Currituck County being in a pour state of health, but in good memory & do make this my last Will & Testament I give & bequeath my plantation, I now live on to equaly be divided between my four sons, Soloman Bennett, John Bennett, Moses Bennett, Mathew Bennett to them & their heirs forever onlay my desire is that my son Mathew Bennett should have that part ajnin the lands of John Standalys & all houses builings thar on I give & bequeath to my daughter Mary Bennett one cow & calf and feather bed and furniture, one linin wheal, & two basons & six pewter plates … (faded) her airs forever - Item - I give & bequeath all the remainder part of …(faded) state after detes is pade to be equaly divided between all my … (faded) to them & their airs forever - Likewise, I constitute & ordain that my last will & testament & James Poyner my whole sale Executor of this my last Will & testament uterly disalowing revoke and disannulling & every other testaments. Wills & legacies & ratifying & confirming this & no other to be my last Will & testament in witness whereof I have set my hands & seal this sixteen day of February one thousand seven hundred & eighty seven
Moses Bennett (seal)
Witness: Peter Ballentine, James Ballentine Jurat,
William Kilding?
Recorded & Examined the
27th day of April Anno Domina 1787 Posm? Ferchee C.C.
Source: Early Records of North Carolina; Vol, 3; Loose Papers and Related Materials 1712-1798 (From the Secretary of State Papers); Abstracted by Dr. Stephen E. Bradley, Jr.; copyright 1993; published by the author.
Source: By A Line of Marked Trees; Abstracts of Currituck County, North Carolina Deed Books [1], 1-3; by John Anderson Brayton, 1503 Union Avenue, Sre. 220, Memphis, TN 38104; copyright 2000; Printed by Cain Lithographers, Inc., Jackson, Mississippi
Currituck County, North Carolina Deed Bk. 2 (1756-1773)
** Pg. 529 4 March 1773
“Moses Bennett and wife Mary of Currituck County, to
Jacob Goodman, for the consideration of 24 pounds proclamation money, 30 acres
which was part of a patent to Benjamin Bennett, dec'd., beginning at a corner
maple in John Bennet's line, north to a corner gum, east by a line of marked
trees to an elm, south to John Bennet's line, west along said line to 1st
station. Witnesses: Josiah Bowren, Dinah Bowren, Elisabeth E. Goodman Signed:
Moses Bennett; Mary (c) Bennett”
** Pg. 521 6 Sep 1774
Niel Snodgrass of Pasquotank County, North
Carolina to Moses Bennitt of Currituck County, North Carolina, for the
consideration of 130 pounds proclamation money, 120 acres on Brays Bay near
Tulls Creek, beginning at the mouth of Quinse
Moses and Mary had the following children:
15 M i. Solomon BENNETT was born[83] about 1769 in Currituck County, North Carolina.
16 M ii. John BENNETT was born[84] about 1771 in Currituck County, North Carolina.
17 M iii. Moses BENNETT was born [85]about 1773 in Currituck County, North Carolina.
18 M iv. Matthew BENNETT was born[86] about 1774 in Currituck County, North Carolina.
19 F v. Mary BENNETT was born[87] about 1777 in Currituck County, North Carolina.
Sixth Generation
18. Matthew BENNETT was born[88] about 1774 in Currituck County, North Carolina. He died[89] about 1814 in Guilford County, North Carolina. Matthew married[90] Ruth HODGSON, daughter of George HODGSON and Rachel OLDHAM, 13 Aug 1801, (bond) in Guilford County. Ruth was born about 1782 in Guilford. She died in May 1863 in Hamilton County, Indiana (SEE HODGSON FAMILY) The bondsman for Matthew's marriage was Jonathan Hobson, witness James McNairy[91].
The 1790 U.S. Census for Currituck County, North Carolina only lists his cousins, Jessie and Carter. Perhaps he was living in another household.
In his father's will Matthew received the part of his father's land adjoining John Standalys and all houses buildings there on, in Currituck County, North Carolina. On 20 June 1795 Matthew sold 13 1/2 acres for 80 silver dollars to Willoughby West on the North side of Moyock Creek[92]. I would guess that this was about the time he turned 21 and came of age. He signed with his mark. I took the land owned by Benjamin Bennett, great-grandfather of Mathew. added and subtracted sales, then divided it by the sons of his descendants and it came out be 13 and a fraction of an acre for Matthew and his brothers.
It is not known where Matthew was from the time he sold his land in Currituck in 1795 and the date of his marriage in 1801. It would seem plausible that he was living in Guilford County for part of this time in order to become acquainted with Ruth, his wife. Perhaps he worked for her father or a neighbor. His brothers, Moses, John and Solomon have not been accounted for either.
In 1815 the inventory of Matthew’s estate was returned[93]. May Court 1815, administration of estate of Mathew Bennett was granted to Ruth Bennett and Solomon Mills who entered into ? in the sum of 300 ps. with William Hodgen (probably her oldest brother) and John Jarham? Security. After Matthew's death his son Solomon Bennett of Wayne County, Indiana was given power of attorney at Randolph County, Indiana court 12 Aug 1835[94]. The 1810 US Census for Guilford County, North Carolina[95] shows 1 male under 10 one male 26-45 (Matthew) and one over 45 (I wonder if this could have been brother, Solomon), 3 females under 10 and one 26-45 (Ruth).
Mathew purchased 102 acres from Solomon Armfield in Guilford County on 9 Feb 1807. His son Solomon sold 122 acres of land belonging to Mathew on 16 Oct 1835. I wonder why there is a difference in the acres bought and sold.
According to the Pictorial and Biographical Memoirs of Indianapolis and Marion County Indiana, Joseph Bennett (this is the only place that shows his name as Joseph it should be Matthew) died in North Carolina about 1814, his wife was Ruth (Mills) (wrong again, her maiden name was Hodgson) Bennett. The family was English and all were adherents of the Quaker faith[96].
This Pictorial and Biographical History also states that Ruth Bennett came to Indiana with her children, coming the entire distance in a one horse wagon and settling in Randolph County in 1821 or 1822 where she remained until 1848[97]. On 21 Oct 1826 Ruth and family received a certificate to New Garden Monthly Meeting, Wayne County, Indiana[98] from Center MM in Guilford County, North Carolina. (Many of our ancestors were members of Center MM, unfortunately a fire at the clerk of Center MM destroyed most of the records before that time). On 9 Feb. 1828 Ruth and family were received on certificate from Center MM, at Cherry Grove MM in Randolph County, Indiana.
In Oct 1829 Ruth married 2nd Francis Hester the son of Robert and Elizabeth Hester at Cherry Grove Meeting House in Wayne County, Indiana. Francis was b.13 Feb 1767, d.31Jan 1848, buried at Milford, Wayne County, Indiana.
With the exception of Mary and Solomon the children were named after members of Ruth's family members[99].
Matthew and Ruth had the following children:
2 F i. Mary "Polly" BENNETT was born about 1802 in North Carolina. She died about 1868 in Randolph County, Indiana. Mary married[100] William DOHERTY, son of William DOHERTY and Mary CHRISTOPHER, on 23 Sep 1818 in Guilford County, North Carolina. William was born about 1798 in Guilford. He died about 1875 in Grant County, Indiana and was buried in Randolph County, Indiana I have a note on my records that says that Mary died at the age of 75. If this is right she would have had to die about 1877. (SEE DOHERTY FAMILY)
3 M ii. Zachariah BENNETT was born about 1804 in Guilford County, North Carolina. On 23 Mar 1850 Zachariah got a certificate to Westfield MM, Indiana[101]. Zachariah was living in his mother’s household in 1850[102] along with Ruth Bennett, age 14. I could not find him on the 1860 census.
4 F iii. Susannah BENNETT was born about 1806 in Guilford County, North Carolina. She married Aza Hollingsworth and on 14 Jun 1828 and was complained against at Cherry Grove MM, Randolph County, Indiana for non attendance and marrying contrary to discipline. She was disowned 9 Aug 1828. Aza may have been the son of Daniel and Sarah J. (Cox) Hollingsworth and the brother of Ira, who married Susannah’s sister Deborah. Susannah probably died between the 1870 and 1880 U.S. Census. In 1870 she was living in Elk Falls, Howard County, Kansas. Howard County no longer exists it was divided in 1875 into Elk and Chautauqua counties.
5 F iv. Deborah BENNETT was born[103] on 18 May 1808 in Guilford County, North Carolina. She died[104] on 13 May 1892 in Traders Point, Indiana and was buried[105] in May 1892 at N Liberty Christian Church. Deborah married Ira Hollingsworth on 18 Aug 1827 in Wayne County, Indiana. She was complained against at Cherry Grove MM, Randolph County, Indiana for non attendance and marrying contrary to discipline on 14 Jun 1828, disowned 9 Aug 1828[106]. Ira was born[107] on 22 Apr 1808 near Dayton, Ohio (or in Zanesville, Muskingum, Ohio there were a lot of errors in the biographical sketches. There was also a sketch for a Daniel Hollingsworth with sons named Aza and Ira.) Ira died[108] on 24 May 1874 in Pike Township, Marion County, Indiana and was buried[109] in May 1874 at N Liberty Christian Church, Marion County. Ira may have been the son of Joseph and Sarah J. (Cox) Hollingsworth and the brother of Aza, who married Deborah's sister Susannah[110]. The family was very active in the N. Liberty Christian Church of Pike Township.
6 M v. Solomon BENNETT was born on 11 Jun 1811 in Guilford County, North Carolina. Solomon was still living in 1880[111]. He may have died in Elk County, Kansas where he appears on the census in 1880. On 24 Sep 1835 Solomon got a certificate to Westfield MM. His children return to Milford MM in 1843 then go back to Westfield in 1850. Perhaps they were living with a relative after their mother died. Solomon married Mary Stanbrough on 31 Oct 1833 in Milford MM, Wayne County, Indiana Mary was born[112] on 14 Jan 1814 in Clinton County, Ohio. She died[113] on 18 Feb 1842 in Hamilton County, Indiana and was buried[114] in Feb 1842 in Westfield, Hamilton County. Mary was the daughter of Evan and Elizabeth (Hester) Stanbrough[115]. Elizabeth Stanbrough was the daughter of Mary (Hodgson) and Francis Hester of Ohio and North Carolina. This is probably the same Francis Hester who married Solomon's mother, Ruth (Hodgson) Bennett. My how these Quaker families intertwine. Mary died at the age of 28y 1m[116]. Solomon is listed on the 1850[117] census living near his mother. In his household was listed Anna age 25, Matthew age 10, Joseph age 9, and Lydia J. age 6. With the exception of Solomon they were all born in Indiana. In 1860[118] he is living next to Matthew Bennet, age 32, born in Indiana and Francis age 22 born in Indiana. Solomon’s household included himself, age 49, born in North Carolina, Anna, age 36, Joseph W., age 20, Eliza E., age 8, Harvey, age 5, Warren age 3, and Robert age 6mo, all born in Indiana. In 1870 and 1880 he and his family were in Medina, Hennepin County, Minnesota. There were two more children in 1870 Jamima, age 8 and Sarah J., age 6, both born in Indiana. So the family migrated to Minnesota between 1863 and 1870. A lot of cheap and free land was given to people to encourage them to settle in certain areas.
TRANSCRIPT: "William Doherty & others Power of Attorney To Solomon Bennet Know all men by these presents that we William Doherty, Aza Hollingsworth, Ira Hollingsworth, Zachariah Bennett and Irah Stanly of Wayne and Randolph Countys in the State of Indiana on this Twelfth day of August in the year of our Lord Eighteen Hundred and Thirty five have made Constituted and appointed and do by these presents make Constitute and appoint Solomon Bennet of Wayne County and State aforesaid our Sufficient and lawful Attorney for us and in our names and to and our use to Bargain Sell, Grant Release and convey to Such person or persons and for Such Sum or Sums of money or Consideration or Considerations as to Our Said attorney may Seem most for Our advantage all the Lands and apportunances thereunto laying and being in the State of North Carolina being the property or real estate of Mathew Bennet deceased of Said State whos lawful Heirs were and upon such Sale or Sales to Seal Execute and deliver in due form of Law such Deed or Deeds for the absolute Sale and disposal there of or any parts there of with Such clauses Covenants and agreements to be there in contained as our said attorney Shall think fits and expedient and to except and receive all the money as consideration arising from such Sale or Sales of Land or Lands and to Execute pow(word cut off on copy) and finish in all things in as ample a manner as we might do if personly present hereby Rattifying and Confirming all lawful acts done by our said attorney by Virtue here of In testamony whereof we have Set our hands and seals The day and Date above written...." (signed by all the above) ("Power of Attorney," 12 Aug 1835, Guilford County Circuit Court, North Carolina, copy of microfilm pp. 555-556 in my possession).
7 F vi. Elizabeth BENNETT was born[119] on 30 Apr 1814 in Guilford County, North Carolina. Elizabeth married[120] Ira Stanley on 4 Mar 1833 in Bethel MH, Randolph County, Indiana. Ira was born[121]. on 1 Dec 1808 in Guilford County, North Carolina. He was the son of Michael and Mary (Gurley) Stanley, Michael was the son of Strangeman Stanley and Jemima [-?-] (b.6 Dec 1799) see New Garden MM, North Carolina, Vol. 1 of The Encyclopedia of American Quakers by William Hinshaw for more information on this family[122].
FOOTNOTES
[1] Patent Book One, pg. 194 #551
P O Box 100173; Milwaukee, WI 53210.Permission to post the above research was kindly given by Elizabeth Doherty Herzfeld;
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© 2005 Kay Midgett Sheppard
