Wedding Wednesday: Nelson/Speiden (1901)

Evening Star (Washington, DC)
31 October 1901

Miss Effie Lee Nelson, daughter of Mr. Edwin Nelson of Manassas, Va., and Mr. Albert Speiden of Washington were married last evening in the Baptist Church, Manassas, by the Rev. Dr. Charles H. Waters, assisted by Drs. Athey and Trainham.  The bride was escorted to the altar by her  brother, Mr. James E. Nelson, and attended by her cousin, Miss Nellie B. Nelson, while Mr. William L. Speiden attended the groom.  Miss Florence E. Herrell presided at the organ.  The ushers were Messrs. John H. Nelson, Frank R. Simpson, C. Paul Nelson, Cuthbert S. Speiden, Frank L. Slaymaker and Thomas L. Speiden.  After a reception and entertainment at the residence of the bride's parents Mr. and Mrs. Speiden left for Niagara and other parts north.

Tombstone Tuesday: Lulu Lewis Lynn (1904)

Sudley Methodist Church Cemetery

In Memory Of

LULA LEWIS LYNN

Daughter of

L. C. & H. T. 

LYNN

Nov. 13, 1884

Jan. 27, 1904

Evening Star (Washington, DC)

27 January 1904

The remains of Miss Lulu Lewis Lynn, whose death occurred this morning at Sibley Hospital in Washington, will be forwarded tomorrow from the residence of Mr. William Demaine on King street to Sudley, Prince William county, for interment.  The deceased was nineteen years of age, and was the daughter of Mr. Lewis Lynn of Prince William.

[Lulu Lewis Lynn was the daughter of Lewis Craig and Hanna J. (Bonham) Lynn. ~cgl]

Travel Tuesday: John Corbin

Evening Star (Washington, DC)
16 November 1901

A RESIDENT OF MANASSAS KILLED BY TRAIN

His Horses Also Killed and Wagon Demolished 

Alexandria, Va., November 16, 1901 -- While driving across the track of the Southern railroad yesterday afternoon at Manassas, Mr. John Corbin, a well-known resident of that place, was struck by a southbound passenger train and instantly killed.  The wagon in which the unfortunate man was seated was demolished and the horses were also killed.  The accident occurred just to the south of the station at that place as passenger train No. 11 was pulling out.  The train had not reached a high rate of speed, but it is thought that Mr. Corbin did not see or hear its approach.  His wife and several children survive him.  He was a prominent farmer of Prince William county.

Sunday's Obituary/Church Record Sunday: 100 Years Ago Today...

Evening Star (Washington, DC)
28 December 1914

JOSEPH N. BADGER DIES

Funeral of Preacher of Primitive Baptist Church Held Saturday

Manassas, Va, December 28 -- Elder Joseph N. Badger, seventy-six years old, a preacher of the Primitive Baptist Church, died Wednesday night at his home in Manassas.  Funeral services were held Saturday at the Mount Zion Primitive Baptist Church, Loudoun county.  He was a native of Maine, but had lived in Virginia nearly forty years.  He is survived by his wife, who was before her marriage, Miss Margaret Hunton of Virginia; three children of his first marriage Miss Nellie Badger of Philadelphia, Gilbert J. Badger of Rome, Ga., and Herbert J. Badger of Newark, N.J.  and a sister, Mrs. Sarah Curtis of Brunswick, Me.

The funeral of P. L. Stevens of Nokesville, who died Wednesday, was held Friday from his late residence.  Rev. L. R. Markwood of the Methodist Church officiating.  Interment was made at Gainesville.  The deceased was fifty-seven years old and came to this country several years ago from the Province of Quebec.  He leaves his wife, Mrs. L. .B. Stevens, and four daughters, W. H. Burke, Mrs. Lily Whitmer and Mrs. Robert Robertson, all of the Nokesville neighborhood, and Mrs. Ella Martin of Manassas.

Thomas Flannery, eighty-eight years old, who died Tuesday at his home near Bristow, following a slight attack of pneumonia, was  buried in Wilmington, Del.  He leaves a daughter, Mrs. Edward Devlin, who lives near St. Edith Academy, Bristow, and two sons, Edward and John Flannery of Washington.

[Thomas Flannery is buried in Cathedral Cemetery, Wilmington, DE. ~cgl]

Military Monday: 24 Prince William Men to be Inducted

Evening Star (Washington, DC)
December 23, 1942

24 Prince William Men to Be Inducted Monday

Manassas, Va., Dec. 23 -- Twenty-four Prince William County men have been ordered to report to Charlottesville for induction into the Army Monday, the Prince William Selective Service Board announced today.

The group includes:

Lyons, George K.

O'Neil, Glen Garth

Dodson, Harry A.

Cebula, John

Herrick, Paul Steve

Coppage, Eppa C.

Duritza, George W.

Davis, Oliver E. 

Maxfield, Owen D.

Reid, Robert S. 

Purcell, Rue W. 

Shelton, Hunter

Riley, John C. 

Tyson, Woodrow L. 

Shelton, Ernest L. 

Beverley, E. P. Jr.

Jenkins, William

Ennis, Albert L.

Pearson, Walter M.

Reedy, Clifford F. 

Miller, Vivian

Liming, Clinton W.

Smith, Palmer Jr.

May, Clifford H.

Sunday's Obituary: Simon Cornwell (1931)

Manassas Journal
March 12, 1931

SIMON CORNWELL

The funeral of Simon Cornwell, aged 23, who met his death in an auto accident on the Baltimore Boulevard Tuesday night, will take place tomorrow at the Woodbine church.

Mr. Cornwell is the son of Mr. Ep Cornwell, who formerly ran the Manassas Ice Plant, but who now resides in Washington.  Young Cornwell was operating a private taxicab.

It is stated that Mr. Cornwell dozed while at the wheel, thus meeting his death in a resultant collision.

The Evening Star (Washington, DC)

March 10, 1931

TWO CAPITAL MEN HURT IN MARYLAND CAR CRASH

Pair Identified as Silas Cornwell and Norman Pulliam in Hospital--Quiz Started

Baltimore, Md., March 10--Two Washingtonians were seriously injured today when a taxicab in which they were riding was in a collision with a touring car on the Belair road near Kingsville, Md.

When extricated from the wrecked taxicab by State Policeman George Fauth and several motorists, the two men were unconscious.  Patrolman Fauth rendered first aid to the victims of the crash pending the arrival of the Cockeysville ambulance.

The injured were taken to the Johns Hopkins Hospital, where they were tentatively identified as Norman Pulliam and Silas Cornwell, both of Washington.  Cards in Cornwell's pocket indicated that he was licensed to operate a taxi.  Physicians said that Cornwell had a probable fractured skull and Pulliam was believed to have been injured internally.

Police later learned that Cornwell lives at 337 C street northwest.  Pulliam is said to live at 1919 Calvert street northwest.  They are believed to have been returning from Philadelphia when the crash occurred. 

State police began an investigation of the accident.

Will: John Plant (1808)

JOHN PLANT Will

Prince William County Will Book I, pg. 3414

10 Nov 1808; proved 5 Dec 1808

In the name of God Amen I JOHN PLANT of County of Prince William and State of Virginia being sick and weak in body but of perfect mind and memory knowing it is appointed for all men once to die do make and ordain this my last will and testament that is to say principally and first of all I give and recommend my soul into the hand of Almighty God that gave it and my body I recommend to the Earth to buried in decent Christian bureal at the discretion of my Executrix nothing doubting but at the general resurrection I shall receive the same again by the mighty power of God and as touching such worldly estate wharewith it has pleased God to bless me in this life.  I devise and dispose of the same in the following manner and form.  First I give and bequeath to MARY PLANT my loving wife al my estate real and personal for and during her life and at her death to be equally divided between my two daughters GRAYSON and SARAH to them and their heirs forever.  I constitute my loving wife MARY PLANT my sole Exetrix of this my last will and testament.  In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this tenth day of November in the year 1808.

JOHN PLANT {seal}

Witness

ZACH WARD

DAVID JOHNSTON

At a Court held for Prince William County Decemr. 5^th 1808

This last will and testament of JOHN PLANT decd was presented to the Court by MARY PLANT the Executrix therein named who made oath to the same according to law and being proved by the oaths of ZACHARIAH WARD and DAVID JOHNSTON is ordered to be recorded and the said Executrix having performed what is usual in such cases certificate is granted her for obtaining a probate thereof in due form.

Teste

J.WILLIAMS  Ct. Cur.

Sunday's Obituary: Elizabeth "Bettie" Leachman

The Evening Star (Washington, DC)
October 24, 1901

The funeral of Mrs. Bettie Leachman, whose death occurred yesterday at the home of her husband, Mr. J. Thomas Leachman, near Wellington, Prince William county, will take place tomorrow afternoon at 3 o'clock.  The interment will be made at Cedar Grove cemetery.  Mrs. Leachman was seventy-eight years of age and is survived by a family.  She was well known in this city.

[Elizabeth "Bettie" Leachman is listed in the 1900 federal census in the Manassas District with her husband, J[ohn] Thomas Leachman, daughter Katie, and sister Ann E. Dickerson.  She was born in July 1823. Bettie and Thomas Leachman were the parents of Roberta Leachman, who married Lewis C. Lynn.  Contrary to the obituary, Mrs. Leachman is buried in Leeds Episcopal Church Cemetery, Fauquier County, beside her husband.  ~cgl]

Friend of Friends Friday: Will: Thomas Oliver (1796)

THOMAS OLIVER Will

Prince William County Will Book H, pg. 165

25 Feb 1796; proved 9 Mar 1796

In the name of God Amen, I THOMAS OLIVER of the town of Dumfries and County of Prince William and State of Virginia being in imperfect health, but of sound mind and memory do make and declare this my last will and testament in manner and form following, after all my just debts are paid.  Imprimis I give and bequeath to HENRY PERRY all my property in Philadelphia one hundred pounds to be paid out of this Estate when he becomes of age.

2^nd.  I give fifty pounds to ADAM COOKE.

3^rd  I give to HARREY NOEL my negro girl named BETSY.

4^th  I give all the rest of my property real and personal to my wife RACHEL OLIVER.

I constitute and appoint my friends Mr. TIMOTHY BRUNDIGE and WILLOUGHBY TEBBS Executors to this my last will and testament this 25^th day of Febry 1746.

THOMAS OLIVER  {seal}

Signed, Sealed and acknowledged published and declared this as and for my last will and testament in presence of

GEO. GRAHAM

JO. SPINCE

JAMES ESPEZ

At a Court continued and held for Prince William County the 9^th day of March 1796.

This last will and testament of THOMAS OLIVER was presented to the Court by TIMOTHY BRUNDIGE and WILLOUGHBY TEBBS the Executors therein named who renounced the burthen of the Execution thereof and the same being proved by the oaths of GEORGE GRAHAM, JOHN SPINCE, and JAMES ESPEZ the witnesses thereto it was ordered to be recorded.

Teste

JOHN WILLIAMS  Ct. Cur.

Wedding Wednesday: Hibbs/Wenrich

Richmond Times Dispatch
May 21, 1903

PRETTY MAY WEDDING

Mr. Walter F. Hibbs and Miss Wenrich Married at Manassas

MANASSAS, VA., May 20. -- A pretty wedding was solemnized at 10 o'clock this morning at the German Lutheran Church when Miss Mary Katie Ann Wenrich became the bride of Mr. Walter F. Hibbs, the Rev. Mr. Grossman officiating.  Mr. Remsberg presided at the piano and beautifully rendered the music for the occasion.

The church was prettily decorated with wild flowers and potted plants.

The ushers were:  O. D. Waters and Wilson Wenrich, brother to the bride.  Mr. J. Jenkyn Davies was best man, and Miss Bessie Goode, of Hagerstown, Md., maid of honor.

Mr. Hibbs and his best man were preceded to the altar by the ushers and followed by the bride with her maid.  The ceremony which is a pretty one was performed in a very impressing manner.

Mr. and Mrs. Hibbs left this morning for Reading, Pa., and after their return to Manassas they will be at home to their friends.

Military Monday: Testimony at Trial of Gen. Fitz John Porter

New Orleans Item (New Orleans, LA)
July 17, 1878

SECOND BATTLE OF MANASSAS

During the trial of Gen. Fitz John Porter at West Point, Thursday, Mr. John S. Leachman, of Groveton, Prince William county, was recalled and closely examined as to the supposed route of Capt. Pope bearing the 4:30 order from Gen. Pope to Gen. Porter, commanding the latter to move against the enemy.  It was charged in the proceedings of the court martial that the order reached Porter at five o'clock p.m.  The latter stoutly avers that it did not get into his hands till between six and seven p.m.

The testimony of Mr. Leachman, who had been a resident in the locality for fifty years, shows that it was a physical impossibility for Capt. Pope to go over the rout.e  Witness supposed he did go in less than an hour and a half, which would make his arrival at Porter's headquarters not before 6 p. m. providing the order was handed to him at the precise time it was dated, and he rode at the utmost speed.

Col. Charles Marshall, a lawyer of Baltimore, and who was an aide-de-camp for Gen. Lee, of the Confederate army, in 1862, was sworn.  He said that twelve Confederate brigades marched through Thoroughfare Gap on the 28th, and one on the morning of the 29th.  About half-past nine the advance was near Groveton.  Then witness located the position of the Confederate troops, and said that as late as two p. m. Gen. Stewart reported that Gen. Jones' right was being threatened, and Gen. Wilcox was ordered to go to his supper.  Later in the afternoon, Hood was attached, and Wilcox was sent back.  The troops threatening Jones appeared to be coming along the Manassas and Gainesville road, and six brigades had to be kept there to watch them.

This was considered important evidence for Porter, as it was his command that threatened the Confederates, and thus it is claimed he acted discreetly, and held the Confederates in check, preventing them from carrying out an intended general attack that day.

Witness stated that he had in his hand Lee's original report of the second Bull Run battle.  He said Gen. Lee did not make an attach on the 29th for the reason that Longstreet advised against it.  This witness also denied previously that there was a general battle on the 29th, as indicated in Pope's dispatch.  There was some artillery firing, and Hood had a severe fight, but it did not become general.

Friend of Friends Friday: Will: Thomas Green (1825)

THOMAS GREEN Will

Prince William County Will Book M, pg 229

08 Nov 1824; proved 03 Jan 1825

In the name of God Amen I THOMAS GREEN being sick of body but of perfect mind and memory and calling to mind the mortality of my body and knowing that it is appointed for all men once to die do make ordain constitute & appoint this my last will and testament and first of all I recommend my soul into the hands of Almighty God & my body to the earth to be buried in decent burial & as touching my earthly goods, I dispose of in the following manner.  In the first place I give and bequeath to my beloved son THOMPSON GREEN negroes DICK, NAT & SANDY.  In the second place my will & desire is that Mr. NATHAN HAISLIP whom I appoint as my Executor shall retain in his hands of my estate so much as shall be a sufficient support for my daughter BETSY GREEN during her life and then to return to my son & daughter THOMPSON & POLLY GREEN and lastly I give and bequeath to my son THOMPSON GREEN & my daughter POLLY GREEN the whole of the residue of property of every discription both real & personal to be equally divided between them.  In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand & seal this 8^th November 1824.

THOS. GREEN

Attest,

WILLIAM THORNBERRY, WILLIAM P. DUNNINGTON, PHILIP WARDER

At a Court held for Prince William County January 3d 1825.

This last will and testament of THOMAS GREEN decd. was presented to the Court and being proved by the oath of WILLIAM P. DUNNINGTON is ordered to be certified and at a court held for said County February the 7^th 1825.  This last will and testament of THOMAS GREEN decd. was fully proved by the oath of WILLIAM THORNBERRY & admitted to record.

Teste, P. D. DAWE

Events: December Programs at PWCo Historic Sites

December 6

A Visit From Santa at Williams Ordinary

Saturday Santa from 10a.m. - 4p.m. 

FREE

Pictures with Santa: $5.00 for 4x6 or $10.00 for 8x10

In December of 1862, artist Thomas Nast made one of the first known illustrations of Santa Claus. Santa was shown giving gifts to soldiers in the field at Fredericksburg, Virginia during the American Civil War.  This year, Santa will dust off that old suit he wore back then and make an appearance at Williams Ordinary in Dumfries.

Guests can make old-time holiday decorations and Pomander balls with citrus fruit and cloves for their trees at home.

Williams Ordinary, 17674 Main St., Dumfries, VA 22026. 703-792-4754.

December 7

Santa Comes to Rippon Lodge

Noon-3pm; $2 per child

Santa Claus will be visiting Rippon Lodge on Sunday afternoon.  Learn about Christmas traditions of the past.  Be on your best behavior so he will have you on the nice list.  Bring your wish list for him.  Parents will be given special “Things Santa Should Know” cards upon arrival.  Bring your camera for pictures!  Dress for the weather some activities are outside. 

Rippon Lodge Historic Site, 15520 Blackburn Road, Woodbridge, VA 22192, 703-499-9812.

December 7

Holiday on the Home Front – WWII Christmas Candle Tours 

5 pm-8pm; $5 per person, children under 6 free

Its 1943 and World War II is in full swing.  What was Christmas like for Wade and Dessie Ellis at their Rippon Lodge home?  WWII artifacts and decorations will be on display throughout the house.  Listen to a holiday fireside chat with FDR or a Bob Hope Special.  Try your hand at making ornaments using what materials were on hand due to rationing. 

Rippon Lodge Historic Site, 15520 Blackburn Road, Woodbridge, VA 22192, 703-499-9812.

December 13

Brentsville Holiday Concerts

Site Open 5pm to 8pm; Concert begins at 6pm; FREE

Join the Brentsville community Saturday evening for a Holiday concert filled with seasonal music performed by the Brentsville District High School Choir at the beautiful and historic Brentsville Union Church. Enjoy hot cider and cookies by a warm bonfire.

Brentsville Courthouse Historic Centre 12229 Bristow Rd., Bristow, Va. 703-365-7895.

December 13

Enslaved Holiday

5pm- 7pm, $7 per person, six and under free

Take a candle lit tour of the main house and slave quarter to learn how the enslaved community celebrated the holidays and how they resisted the institution that kept them enslaved. Living history vignettes will allow some of the enslaved workers at Ben Lomond to come to life, giving you a unique perspective into this period of American history.   Ben Lomond Historic Site, 10321 Sudley Manor Dr., Manassas, VA 703-367-7872.

For more information on Prince William County Historic Preservation please visit www.pwcgov.org/history or call 703-792-4754.

Newspaper Tidbit: PWCo Items (1874)

Alexandria Gazette
May 25, 1874

PRINCE WILLIAM COUNTY ITEMS. [From the Manassas Gazette]

The County Board of Supervisors met on Monday, for the purpose of providing for putting in force the act of the General Assembly for the protection of sheep by a tax on dogs.  It was ordered that the Assessors in the several Townships list all dogs within their several Districts issuing licenses to keep the same, to the owner at a uniform tax of fifty cents per dog; also that whenever the owner of any sheep shall become satisfied that any portion of his flock has been killed or seriously injured  by [d]ogs, he shall apply to the Supervisors or some Justice of his Township, who shall at once proceed to view the sheep so killed or seriously injured, and ascertain what the amount of damage is which has been sustained  by the owner of the sheep and give him a certificate therefor.  The Board agreed that the bounty of forty cents on gray fox scalps, and a bounty of sixty cents on red fox scalps shall be paid out of the dog tax to take effect on and after the 18th day of May.

During the thunderstorm on Saturday last, a large locust tree, in Mr. John T. Leachman's front yard was struck by lightning, tearing it into fragments and throwing the debris on and over the house.  Several members of Mr. Leachman's family were very much shocked.  So great was the shock that articles in the house were thrown down.  The rain was very heavy in that section, raising the streams unusually high, and washing away water gaps fencing & c.  Lightning also struck a tree near the house of Mr. Mankins, a quarter of a mile outside the village, and severely stunned his daughter.

Mr. Samuel Allen, one of the most enterprising citizens of this county, was accidentally killed on Thursday last.  He was at his steam saw mill, on the farm of Mr. John H. Kirby near Independent Hill, and about 4 o'clock in the evening was struck in the stomach with a slab which had be caught by the great saw and thrown from it with tremendous violence.  After undergoing intence [sic] suffering for 14 hours he died at 6 o'clock.

A dog having all the symptoms of hydrophobia was shot by M. F. W. Oakey on Tuesday.  It is rumored that several dogs have been bitten, and it s said the dog was bitten some time since by a dog supposed to be mad, which was killed at the time.

Frank Cole a colored laborer working at the new Presbyterian church in Manassas, while helping to carry a large stone up the gang way on Monday last, fell to the ground a distance of fifteen feet, severely spraining one of his ankles, and receiving other injuries, not however serious.

After the thunder storm on Saturday last, several persons in this community discovered floating on the surface of the water in their rain barrels, a substance which on inspection proved to be a deposit of brimstone.

Mr. F. W. Hutchins has sold to Mr. Thurman of Germanton, Pa., one hundred acres of land near Manassas, improved by a frame dwelling and tolerable out buildings, for $3,000.

The friends of Mr. W. W. Davis will be glad to learn that he is recovering from the severe injuries [h]e received several weeks ago, by being struck to the ground by his horse.

The water in the well of one of our citizens has become so strongly impregnated with coal oil that the family have been compelled to discontinue its use.

We regret to announce the serious illness of Mr. Leonard Lywood, one of our  most useful and highly respected English residents.

The concert at the M. E. Church on Thursday evening the 15th inst., was a most delightful entertainment.

Sunday's Obituary: Edward L. Dulin (1854) and Edward S. Dulin (1872)

Alexandria Gazette
February 12, 1872

At Oak Dale, Prince William county, Va., January 22, 1872, at the residence of his uncle, Rev. B. P. Dulin, Edward S. Dulin, in the twenty-third year of his age -- son of the late E. L. Dulin.  Mr. Dulin was a consistent member of the Baptist Church for several years.  His funeral sermon was preached by Rev. G. W. Briston, from Corinthians, 15th chapter, 57th verse -- "Thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory, through our Lord Jesus Christ."

Alexandriai Gazette
July 31, 1854

In Washington, on the 28th instant, of bronchitis, Rev. Edward L. Dulin, of the Baltimore Annual Conference of the Methodist Episcopal Church.

Wedding Wednesday: Foley/Combs (1895)

The Evening Star (Washington, DC)
November 23, 1895

A very pretty wedding took place at the residence of Mrs. S. F. Yates of Georgetown, D.C., on the night of November 20.  The contracting parties were Mr. Enoch F. Foley of Waterfall, Prince William county, and Miss Janie L. Combs of Mountain View, Fauquier county, Va., the ceremony being performed by the Rev. W. S. O. Thomas of Gay Street Baptist Church, Georgetown, D.C.  The bride wore a handsome dress of changeable silk, with pearl ornaments, and carried a bouquet of white chrysanthemums.  The flower bearer, Phoebe Moffet, a little miss of five years, attired in a gown of white tulle, carrying a bouquet of the same flowers, preceded the couple to the strains of Mendelsshon's wedding march.  The ceremony was performed under a bower of chrysanthemums, after which a reception was held from 8 until 10.  Mr. and Mrs. Foley left Thursday for their future home in Prince William county, Va.

Travel Tuesday: Freight Train Accident (1904)

The Evening Star (Washington, DC)
June 30, 1904

The remains of Fireman Daniel Garvin, who was killed yesterday afternoon in the wreck of a freight train near Culpeper, sixty miles below this city on the Southern railroad, have been brought here to be prepared for burial.  The body was taken to the undertaking rooms of B. Wheatley, on King street.  Arrangements for the funeral have not yet been made.  Garvin, whose home was in Sayre, Pa., was crushed by his engine and both legs were cut off above the ankles.  He lived about an hour after the accident.  Conductor S. G. Goodman of this city was bruised about the head and one of his legs was mashed, but his injuries were not of a serious nature.  Engineer M. H. DeCourcey of Manassas had his left arm broken and sustained injuries to his back.  He was also painfully scalded.  The wreck occurred between local freight train No. 61 and work train No. 547.  All the injured were of the crew of the extra.  No one on the local freight was hurt.   Just how the accident occurred is not known here.

Friend of Friends Friday: Lease Agreement: Sowden to Tansill

The following document was submitted as supporting evidence in Culpeper County, Virginia in the 1859 chancery case of James A. M. Muschett v. Seymour Lynn (as executor of the Estate of Samuel Tansill).

Sowden to Tansill

Lease of Slave

24 May 1841

We Ann Sowden & John Sowden have this day hired to Samuel Tansill, two negro men (Thomas & Philip) for one hundred and twenty dollars per year, commencing the first day of June Eighteen hundred & forty one and the said Tansill is to clothe them, pay their taxes and treat them with humanity, and pay the 1^st one hundred and twenty dollars as follows, viz, he is to pay thirty dollars on the first day of Sept eighteen hundred & forty one and thirty dollars on the first day of Dec 1841 and thirty dollars on the first day of March eighteen hundred & forty two and thirty dollars on the first day of June eighteen hundred and forty two, and it is further on by the said Ann & John Sowdon that whatever interest may accrue on the bonds, which the said Tansill now holds of ours as assignee of Thos. A. Farrow shall be deducted from the above named hire of one hundred and twenty dollars.  In witness whereof we the parties to the above agreement have hereunto set our hands & affixed our seals this 24^th day of May Eighteen hundred & forty one.

Ann Sowden {seal}

John Sowden {seal}

Samuel Tansill {seal}

I certify that the above contract is a true copy of a contract filed in the case in the Circuit Superior Court of Law and Chancery in Prince William County of Alexander v. Sowden.

Milton Fitzhugh Clk

Of Circuit Court of Pr. Wm. County

Thriller Thursday: W. R. Staples

Richmond Times-Dispatch
September 14, 1922

DRAGGED BY HORSE, MAN DIES FROM HURTS

[Special to the Times-Dispatch] Fredericksburg, Va. Sept. 13

While en route from his home in Fairfax County to Manassas, a few monrings ago, the horse being driven by W. R. Staples became frightened at a dog and cow on the roadside.  The animal bolted, throwing from the vehicle Mr. Staples and his wife, who was accompanying him.  Mr. Staples became entangled in the lines and was dragged for one hundred yards over a rough stretch of road.  When assistance reached him he was carried to the Speakes' home.  Dr. W. F. Merchant treated the injured man.  Mr. Staples died in a short time.  Mrs. Staples was uninjured.  Mr. Staples was 59 years old.

Wednesday's Child: Goldie Weber

Woodbine Church Cemetery, Independent Hill, VA

GOLDIE WEBER

February 22, 1914

July 11, 1923

Goldie Weber was the daughter of Philip and Gertrude Weber.  She is age five with her parents on the 1920 federal census for Coles District.  

Tombstone Tuesday: Belle (Grayson) and Luther Oscar Lynn

Sudley Methodist Church Cemetery

LUTHER O. LYNN

Born

August 30, 1850

Died

Dec. 22, 1919

Sudley Methodist Church Cemetery

BELL F. LYNN

Wife of

L. O. LYNN

Born

May 1, 185

Died

Nov. 16, 1927

Luther Oscar Lynn was the son of Luther Langdon Lynn and his first wife, Mary Frances James Currell.  He married Isabella Frances "Belle" Grayson on December 23, 1875 in Prince William County.

Sunday's Obituary: Maggie Keys (1923)

Manassas Journal
January 12, 1923

WIDOW OF LATE VETERAN DIES

Mrs. Maggie Keys Passes Away at Home of Her Son in Brentsville

Mrs. Maggie Keys, widow of the late R. A. Keys, a Confederate veteran, died at the home of her son, Mr. L. F. Keys, in Brentsville, on January 7 after an illness of about a month.  Her death was due to the infirmities of age, she being in her 85th year.

The deceased was married to Mr. Robert A. Keys in Alexandria in 1862 from which union was born five children, four sons and one daughter, namely, John T. Keys, J. M. Keys, R. H. Keys, and L. F. Keys, all of Brentsville, and Mrs. John Weeks, of Fairfax C.H., all of whom survive her together with seventeen grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren.

Funeral services were conducted by Rev. J. R. Cooke at the Union Church at Brentsville ,her body being laid to rest in the family burying ground at that place.

The many beautiful flowers were a token of the esteem in which she was held in the neighborhood.

Wedding Wednesday: Nicol/Iden

Evening Star (Washington, DC)
November 21, 1912

Christ Episcopal Church was the scene of a brilliant wedding at 8 o'clock last night, when Miss Pauline Fauntleroy Nicol, daughter of Judge Charles Edgar Nicol of this city, became the bride of Dr. Benjamin Iden, Jr., of Manassas, Va.

The bridal couple entered the church to the strains of a wedding march, played by Mrs. Simpson of Washington.  The bride was accompanied to the altar by her father, by whom she was given in marriage.  Rev. William J. Morton, rector of the church, performed the ceremony.

The bride wore a gown of ivory-tinted charmeuse trimmed with Venetian lace and tulle caught with orange blossoms.  Her ornaments were pearls, and she carried a bouquet of bride roses.  Attending the bride was her sister, Miss Julia Nicol, who acted as maid of honor.  She wore white lace over green, an carried a bouquet of violet chrysanthemums.  The bridegroom had for his best man his brother, Dr. John Iden, U.S.N.

The bridesmaids were the Misses Lucille Smith and Marguerite Newhauser, Washington, D.C.; Janette Powers, Port Royal, Va.; Dellia Dudley, Washington, Va.; Nellie Uhler, Cora Jones, and Christina Kemper of this city.  They wore yellow with violet trimmings, and carried violet crysanthemums.

The groomsmen were Harvey Jacobs and Jack Harper, Washington, D.C.; Milton French, Jack Stevenson, Edmund Hunter, Aylet Nicol and Edgar Nicol.

The church was attractively decorated, the color scheme being yellow and violet, while the chancel was banked with palms.  A reception followed the wedding at the home of the bride, 316 North Washington street, after which Dr. and Mrs. Iden left for New York, where they will make their home for the winter.  Those present from out of the city were:  Mrs. J. B. T. Thornton, Manassas, Mrs. H. M. Dudley, Washington, Va.; Dr. John Iden, Manassas; Mr. and Mrs. Robert N. Harper, Washington, D.C.; Judge and Mrs. Ashley M. Gould, Washington, D.C.; Mr. and Mrs. John Nicol, Manssas; Mr. A. T. Holtzman, Washington, D.C., and Mrs. Maude Rrazill, Newport, R.I.

Will: Charles Hoff (1814)

CHARLES HOFF Will

Prince William County Will Book K, pg. 289

01 Jan 1814; proved 06 Jun 1814

In the name of God Amen I CHARLES HOFF of Prince William County and State of Virginia being in perfect health thanks be to the Almighty God for his mercy toward me do make this last will and testament if I the said CHARLES HOFF do not return from the Expedition that make over my property to Item I give unto my nephew JOSHUA HOFF one horse bridle an sadle one set of black smith tools.  Item and I leave to four well beloved sisters all my property that BETTY, JANE, SARAH and NANCY HOFF.  Exception the horse bridle and tools.  Item and if any money arising from the sd. Estate that can be paid without disfurnishing themselves.  Item I leave unto CORNELIUS and THOMAS HOFF four hundred dollars two hundred each.  Item and I leave my well beloved brother JOHN HOFF my etn. Of my estate so long as he carry on the business with prudence and economy.  Item and my Exetrx is not to make way nor sale of any of the said estate but it  to remain in the hands of my sisters during there natural lives.  As witness my hand and seal this first day of January eighteen hundred and fourteen.

CHARLES HOFF {seal}

Teste,

HENRY HOPE, WILLIAM HOPE, ELIZA HOPE

At a Court of Quarterly Sessions held for Prince William County June 6^th 1814.

This last will and testament of CHARLES HOFF deceased was presented to the Court by JOHN HOFF the Exor. therein named who made oath to the same according to law & the said will being proved by the oaths of HENRY HOPE and WM. HOPE is ordered to be recorded and the said JOHN HOFF having taken the oath of an Exor. and performed what is usual in such cases certificate is granted her for obtaining a probate thereof in due form.

Teste, PHIL. D. DAWE

Sunday's Obituary: Mrs. Albert Hayes

Evening Star (Washington, DC)
October 25, 1914

Mrs. Hayes is Buried

Mrs. Albert Hayes died Tuesday at her home near Kopp.  Her funeral was held Thursday at Belle Haven Baptist Church, with interment in the churchyard there.  She is survived by her husband, a son, Roland T. Hayes of Marshall, and a daughter, Mrs. J. A. Myers of Marion, Iowa.

[Ellen C. Hayes is buried in the Belle Haven Baptist Church Cemetery beside her husband Albert. - cgl]

Friend of Friends Friday: Ranaway from Subscriber (Jesse)

American and Commercial Daily (Baltimore, MD)
August 30, 1814

Thirty Dollars Reward.

Ranaway from the subscriber living on Cedar Run, Prince William county, Virginia, on the 18th inst. a mulatto fellow named JESSE.  He frequently attaches Murphy to his name -- he is about 5 feet 4 inches high; about 31 or 32 years of age -- has been brought up a house servant, and is a good waiter and ostler; he also understands the farming business -- he is very dressy, and a cunning, artful fellow, and will endeavor to pass as a free man.  Part of his dress is a country cloth jacket and breeches, a blue and brown cloth coat, a castar hat, laced shoes, with country stockings.

I will give the above reward with all reasonable charges to any person who will bring him home, or lodge him in a gaol so that I get him again, leaving information with Mr. Jas. Brundige, Baltimore, or to Mr. Geo. Sweeny, Washington City.

George Sweeny
July 21
law3t

Wednesday's Child: Leo Keys

Woodbine Church Cemetery, Independent Hill, VA

LEO KEYS

Nov. 10, 1920

Jan. 16, 1921

Newspaper Tidbit: Voting Notice in Haymarket Precinct (1832)

National Aegis (Vicksburg, Mississippi)
November 21, 1832

A CURIOSITY.  The Commissioners for holding the elections at Haymarket Precinct, in Prince William County, Virginia, posted up the following notice at the public places in Haymarket:

"Notice.  Persons desirous to vote for Andrew Jackson, as President of the United States, can obtain tickets by applying to the Commissioners who will conduct the election.  They are cautioned against receiving tickets from any other source, as it is believed we have more to fear from false friends than avowed enemies."

We consider this a most unauthorized interference on the part of the Commissioners, who should have been seen in any other position than that of electioneering partizans.

Alexandria Gazette

Events at PWCo Historic Sites for November/December

Prince William Historic Preservation Foundation Events

Veteran’s Day at Historic Brentsville

10a-1p, Free, $5 dollar suggested donation

Salute our brave veterans who have contributed to our nation’s freedom!  Join site staff for crafts and fun at Brentsville’s historic courthouse.  In celebration of Veteran’s Day, write letters to current soldiers serving overseas.  Learn about our military history through first-person interpretation vignettes of all major American conflicts starting with the American Revolution to current day.

Brentsville Courthouse Historic Centre 12229 Bristow Rd., Bristow, Va. 703-365-7895.

November 15

Rev War to:  1776! The Revolution Comes to Rippon Lodge        

11a-4p; FREE

In February of 1776 the 3^rd Virginia Regiment was organized out of companies from several local counties including Prince William County.  The troops will muster at Rippon Lodge home of Thomas Blackburn for inspection and to make ready.  Residents are invited to come for the day to see the troops.  Living history demonstrations of both military and civilian life during the American Revolution will take place all day. 

Rippon Lodge Historic Site, 15520 Blackburn Road, Woodbridge, VA 22192, 703-499-9812.

November 15

Open-Hearth Cooking Class at Brentsville

10a-1p, $30 per person, not recommended for children under 12, reservations required

Gear up for the Thanksgiving season by learning the skills of open-hearth cooking.  Join an experienced open-hearth cooking historian and learn the basic skills needed to prepare food over an open fire.  You will learn how to build a fire and will prepare and cook three different dishes.  End the program by enjoying a taste of the food you cooked.  Class will take place in the ca. 1850 Haislip Farmhouse.

Brentsville Courthouse Historic Centre 12229 Bristow Rd., Bristow, VA. 703-365-7895.

December 6

December 7

A Visit From Santa at Williams Ordinary

Saturday Santa, 10a-5p

Sunday Santa, Noon-3p

FREE; Pictures with Santa: $5.00

In December of 1862, artist Thomas Nast made one of the first known illustrations of Santa Claus. Santa was shown giving gifts to soldiers in the field at Fredericksburg, Virginia during the American Civil War.  This year, Santa will dust off that old suit he wore back then and make an appearance at Williams Ordinary in Dumfries.

Guests can make old-time holiday decorations and Pomander balls with citrus fruit and cloves for their trees at home.

Williams Ordinary, 17674 Main St., Dumfries, VA 22026. 703-792-4754.

December 7

Santa Comes to Rippon Lodge

Noon - 3p; $2 per child

Santa Claus will be visiting Rippon Lodge on Sunday afternoon.  Learn about Christmas traditions of the past.  Be on your best behavior so he will have you on the nice list.  Bring your wish list for him.  Parents will be given special “Things Santa Should Know” cards upon arrival.  Bring your camera for pictures!  Dress for the weather some activities are outside. 

Rippon Lodge Historic Site, 15520 Blackburn Road, Woodbridge, VA 22192, 703-499-9812.

December 7

Holiday on the Home Front – WWII Christmas Candle Tours 

5p-8p; $5 per person, children under 6 free

Its 1943 and World War II is in full swing.  What was Christmas like for Wade and Dessie Ellis at their Rippon Lodge home?  WWII artifacts and decorations will be on display throughout the house.  Listen to a holiday fireside chat with FDR or a Bob Hope Special.  Try your hand at making ornaments using what materials were on hand due to rationing. 

Rippon Lodge Historic Site, 15520 Blackburn Road, Woodbridge, VA 22192, 703-499-9812.

Brentsville Holiday Concert

Site open 5p-8p; concert begins at 6p, Free

Join the Brentsville community Saturday evening for a Holiday concert filled with seasonal music performed by the Brentsville District High School Choir at the beautiful and historic Brentsville Union Church. Enjoy hot cider and cookies by a warm bonfire.

Brentsville Courthouse Historic Centre 12229 Bristow Rd., Bristow, Va. 703-365-7895.

Enslaved Holiday

5p-7p, $7 per person, six and under free

Take a candle lit tour of the main house and slave quarter to learn how the enslaved community celebrated the holidays and how they resisted the institution that kept them enslaved. Living history vignettes will allow some of the enslaved workers at Ben Lomond to come to life, giving you a unique perspective into this period of American history.   Ben Lomond Historic Site, 10321 Sudley Manor Dr., Manassas, VA 703-367-7872.

For More Information on Historic Preservation in Prince William County including; rentals, volunteer opportunities, school and scout programs, camps and special events please call 703-792-4754 or historicpreservation@pwcgov.org

Military Monday: Youngest of the D.A.R. (Ewell)

Charleston News and Courier (South Carolina)
January 4, 1903

YOUNGEST OF THE D.A.R.

Miss Carrie Ewell of Kentucky Enjoys an Odd Distinction
[From the Chicago Chronicle]

Lexington, KY, December 25 -- Possibly the youngest member of the Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution is Miss Carrie Ewell, of Paducah.  Miss Ewell is but 22 and her father, who died twelve years ago, was one of the nineteen surviving Sons of the Revolution.  She was born 120 years after her grandfather, who was Major Charles Ewell, of Prince William County, Virginia, a distinguished soldier of the Revolution.

Miss Ewell's father was the child of a second marriage of his father late in life and Miss Ewell is the child of a similar marriage of her father.

Her grandfather was born in Prince William County, Virginia, September 29, 1760.  For his services in the War for Independence he was given a military warrant from the Legislature of Virginia for land in what is now Ballard County, in Western Kentucky, while Kentucky was still a part of the territory of Virginia.  He moved to this claim in 1826 and lived there the remainder of his days.

Before leaving Virginia Major Ewell was married for the second time, to Miss Matria D. Craik, in 1818, when she was 30 and he was 58 years old.  A year later their oldest son John Ewell was born.  Mrs. Craik was the widow of George Washington Craik, who was a son of Dr. John Craik, Washington's family physician.  Dr. Craik's wife was Marianna Ewell, Major Ewell's own cousin.

A grandson of Mrs. Ewell by her first marriage is the Rev. Charles Craik, pastor of Christ's Episcopal Church, in Louisville, Ky.  In the Rev. Mr. Craik's possession is a quaint old desk which was given to his grandfather by Gen. Washington.   It was shown in the Kentucky building at the World's Fair in Chicago.

Major Ewell died in Ballard County and was buried there in 1830.  Twenty-four years later his widow and son, John Ewell, moved to Paducah.  John Ewell raised a large family of children both by his first and second marriage.  Miss Carrie Ewell is the youngest child of the last marriage.  She has lived in Paducah all her life and is a pretty, charming and popular young woman.

Church Record Sunday: Newspaper Tidbits: Baptist Church

Alexandria Gazette
August 21, 1873

Union Grove speaks of being poor financially, yet rich in the Lord.  Still regards Bro. Dulin as pastor, though he has left them.  Desires to build a house of worship, and asks assistance.  They have licensed Bro. C. W. Teasdale to preach the Gospel.

Alexandria Gazette
October 10, 1874

A protracted meeting by the New School Baptists closed last week, which had been in progress near Blands Ford for two or three weeks.  The meetings were held in the woods in the day time and at Mr. Barnes' house at night.  The exercises were under the charge of Rev. Wallace Newman who was assisted by Rev. Mr. Risdon, Rev. Mr. Lowe, and Rev. Mr. Teasdale.  The meetings were well attended and resulted in the addition of seven new members, who received the ordinance of baptism on Sunday ast.

Alexandria Gazette
April 15, 1876

CHURCH ORGANIZATION. -- The pastors and delegates from the following churches convened at Occoquan on April 9th, 1876, for the purpose of organizing a Baptist Church at that place:

Clifton, J. W. Ashford and G. W. Tillett; Jerusalem, T. T. Burke; Oak Dale, B. P. Dulin; Woodbine, S. F. Teasdale and S. G. Teasdale.

After a thorough investigation of the matter, it was unanimously adopted by the committee, and Rev. B. P. Dulin was chosen to preach the organization sermon, after which Rev. W. S. Kerns delivered the charge to the organized body.  The meeting then adjourned.

Friend of Friends Friday: Nellie Robinson

Alexandria Gazette (Alexandria, VA)
March 25, 1874

Old aunt Nellie - Nellie Robinson - a colored woman about ninety years of age, died at the residence of her former master, ex Mayor George Wise, in Prince William county, yesterday.