This Willis family originated in Dorchester Co, Maryland in the late 1600s. John Willis immigrated from Wantage, England and settled in Dorchester Co. One of his many sons, Andrew, was born and died there. One of Andrew's sons, William, migrated to Western North Carolina. While there are Maryland records of William spending his childhood in Maryland, there is no indication that he was in Maryland after reaching manhood in the mid 1730s. Between the 1730s and 1764, it is not yet known where William and his family resided. The first evidence of William in North Carolina is a land grant in Mecklenburg Co in 1764. Land he settled in Mecklenburg County later became a part of Tryon, Rutherford and then finally Cleveland, Counties, as new counties were formed and existing counties reorganized.
William's oldest child, daughter Elizabeth Willis, married James Buchanan. William also had two sons, William Jr and Jacob Sr. While some of William's descendants reside in modern day Cleveland county, other branches of this family migrated to Kentucky and then Illinois in the 1790s, Alabama and then Texas in the early 1800s, and Arkansas in the 1840s.
The Buchanan family is believed to be from Charles County, Maryland. Based on records from Charles Co, James was born in 1734. He likely met and married Elizabeth Willis at some point in the 1750s. They may have migrated to Western NC with William, or arrived just a few years later. James and Elizabeth had sons Arthur, William and Joseph. After Elizabeth died in the 1790s, James and his sons eventually moved to Burke County, which later became Yancey and finally Mitchell County, North Carolina.
Willis and Buchanan families lived on adjacent farms in Mecklenberg, Tryon, Rutherford Counties from the 1760s until the early 1800s, farming 1300+ acres at the peak, and interacting and collaborating often in various land transactions and court records. They resided on both sides of the First Little Broad River, just north of modern day Polkville, North Carolina. Their farms were just south of where Duncan and Ward's Creeks, and just north of where Hinton Creek, intersect the First Little Broad.
William Willis Sr. 1717 - 1782, m. unk, possibly Elizabeth Hill unk - unk
1. Elizabeth Willis ca 1740 - ca 1794, m. James Buchanan 1734 - ca 1805
Arthur Buchanan ca 1764 - unk
William Buchanan 1765 - 1856, m. Elizabeth Jones 1774 - 1861
Joseph Buchanan 1767 - 1860, m. Sally Jones 1772 - 1840
2. William Willis Jr. ca 1744 - 1794, m. Margaret (Nelson or Pickett) unk - aft 1814
Henry Willis
James Willis
Jacob Willis Jr. 1780 - 1828, m. Lydia Black 1785 - 1850
Jacob Willis Jr. 1780 - 1828, m. Lydia Black 1785 - 1850
John Willis (William John Willis)
William Willis
Robert Willis
Robert Willis
3. Jacob Willis Sr ca 1748 - 1782, m. Elizabeth Nancy Eaves 1756 - 1782
William Willis 1775 - 1866, m. Elizabeth Steel 1782 - 1822
Henry Willis unk - 1769, m. Margaret Crease (Cross) unk - aft 1787 [Henry and William Sr arrive in Western NC about the same time, and live on adjacent farms. They appear to be related, but how is not yet known.]
LAND GRANT PROCESS. Make an ENTRY with the court clerk for vacant land. During a waiting period, a representative of the court visits the property to ensure the land is vacant and there are no conflicts. After the waiting period expires, the clerk issues a WARRANT to get the land surveyed and plat prepared. Then the filer submits a survey, plat and the warrant for review. If approved, a GRANT is awarded, deed obtained. Fees are paid at each step of the process. At times, it was possible for total costs of obtaining a grant to equate to just purchasing the land outright from someone who already owns deeded property. So, a grant was not "free" land.
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Land transactions for THE MARYLAND GROUP OF WILLIS, including the related BUCHANAN families:
16 November 1764, GRANT. William Willis [Sr] 300 acres in Mecklenburgh on both sides of Little Broad river below PETER DUNCAN. Chain Bearers: Jacob Willis [Sr] and Wm. Huddlestone. ABSTRACTS OF LAND PATENTS 1765-1775 Vol. 2 HOFFMAN. Pg 530 #7501 Pg. 127 [This is the first evidence indicating the arrival of the Willis family from Dorchester Co, Maryland in Western NC]
28 October 1765, GRANT. BGSOTC Nov 2011, Pg 172. John McKnith Alexander received a grant on 28 October 1765 for 300 acres "on both sides first Broad river Close above the first Mountain Including the great Beaver Dams and the Mouth of the Creek". The chainbearers were Jacob Willis and Henry Willis. The survey is signed by Jn. McKnith Alexander. [LG Bk. 18, p. 180 and Mecklenburg file 497]. This grant overlapped an earlier grant to Hugh Beatey. Alexander sold the 261 acres which did not overlap Hugh Beatey to Joseph Grayson on 27 September 1799. RCNC Deed Bk 15, Pg. 1.
28 October 1765, GRANT. BGSOTC Nov 2011, Pg 173. Moses Winsloy received a grant on 28 October 1765 for 200 acres "upon both sides first Broad River a little below the Mountain Including the Mouth of the two Creeks and the Great Indian Camps." The chainbearers for the survey were Henry Willis and Jacob Willis. The survey plat is signed by Jn. McKnith Alexander. [Lg Bk. 18, p 181 and Mecklenburg file 499] Moses Winsley of Iredell County, North Carolina sold this tract to Stephen Hogue on 28 November 1796. RCNC Deed Bk 6, p. 219.
28 April 1768, GRANT. William Willis [Jr] 130 acres in Mecklenburgh on both sides of first Little Broad river above Connaways Line. Chain Bearers: Thomas Willis, John Willis ABSTRACTS OF LAND PATENTS 1765-1775 Vol. 2 HOFFMAN. Pg 484. #6437 Pg. 195 [The presence of Thomas Willis and John Willis in 1768 is perplexing. They do not appear in any other land transactions, nor in the Court Records of Tryon or Rutherford County from 1769 - 1794. Neither appears in the first tax listing of 1782. These may have been other sons of William Sr, younger than William Jr. Perhaps they passed away at an early age. Or, they could have been relatives who also migrated down from Dorchester Co, Maryland and only passed thru, eventually settling somewhere other than Tyron/Rutherford Co. William Sr's other son, Jacob Sr., starts appearing in Tryon Co court records around 1774. A William Willis appears in Tryon Co court records as early as 1769, and has a continual presence serving on road committees and juries, but there is no way to distinguish between William Sr and William Jr. in court records as the notations are only for a William Willis.]
1769 - Tryon County is formed from parts of Mecklenburg County. The land granted to William Sr and Jr in Mecklenberg Co then becomes located in Tryon County.
15 December 1769, WARRANT. Henry Willis. 250 Acres. On Hintons Creek Joining his own Improvement. Warrant 479. 15 December 1769. SS 946.3 TRYON COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA, LAND WARRANTS, 1768-1774 Philbeck. #99. [Henry apparently died shortly after this Warrant was issued. His widow, Margaret, comes into court in early 1770 to start the process of settling his estate. Henry's Estate Inventory is on file at the NC Archives. It is among the oldest documents surviving from Tryon County North Carolina]
24 December 1770, GRANT. Margaret Willis and Wm. Willis [Sr] 250 Acres in Tryon on the S. side of 1st little Broad River on both sides of Hintons Creek - including improvements she lives on ABSTRACTS OF LAND PATENTS 1765-1775 Vol. 2 HOFFMAN. Pg 209 2756 Pg. 621 [Margaret is Henry's widow. We don't know why William was on this grant. It is possible that he was closely related to Henry. It is clear though that this land belongs to Margaret. Henry filed the Entry, got a Survey, received a Warrant, but died before this Grant. The deed puts Margaret's name before William, which would not be done if they were married. And reference is made to improvements "she" lives on. In addition, some future land transactions are indicated as bordering the land of Margaret Willis.]
27 July 1772, SALE. Isaac Hinton to James Buckhannon, for 50 A on N side of Hintons Creek, granted to said Hinton 16 Nov 1764. Wit: James Whitesides, Jacob Willis [Sr]. DEED ABSTRACTS of TRYON, LINCOLN, RUTHERFORD 1769-1786 Holcum. GR929.3 N811 H725d c.2 [James Buchanan is married to Elizabeth Willis, daughter of William Sr. They lived on land adjacent to that of William Sr. Jacob Sr. is the second son of William Sr.]
10 October 1772, SALE. George & Elizabeth Wiginton to Alexander Koyl 100 A, bought from John McIntire. Border: Thomas Black. Wit: James Buchanan, Jacob Willis [Sr.]. Deed Abstracts 1769-86 Tryon, L, R Cos. Holcum. Pg 660-661 Deed Bk A - D [Thomas Black was granted 650 acres on Duncan's Creek, James Buchanan was on an adjacent 50 A farm, Jacob Willis was second oldest son of William Sr and lived on the 300 A farm of William Sr. William Sr's farm was grown to 500 A by an additional 200 A grant in 1775]
12 December 1772, SALE. Margaret and William Willis [Sr] to William Hannah, for 5 sterling, land on Stantons Creek running in first little Broad River, 250 A. Wit:James Buckhannon, Benjamin Hardin DEED ABSTRACTS of TRYON, L, R Cos 1769-1786 Holcum. Pg 677 Deed Bk A-D [This is a confusing transaction. It appears that something happened to William Hannah shortly after this transaction. The courts later appoint Margaret Cross [Willis] as the guardian to William Hannah's children. This land apparently came back to Margaret. It appears she later married Isaac Hinton. Together they sold this land to John Lattimore in 1787 - see below. This transaction, in conjunction with the original grant, are a great source of confusion for many Willis researchers in that it causes them to believe that Margaret and William Sr are married. They are not. Very significant evidence indicates that Margaret was the widow of a Henry Willis. It is believed that Henry and William Sr were related, but it is not known how.]
19 January 1773, WARRANT. William Willis [Sr]. 200 Acres. On a Creek commonly called Isaac's Creek between his own Line and Margaret Willis' Land. Warrant 1140. 19 January 1773. SS 588 and LGO original. TRYON COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA, LAND WARRANTS, 1768-1774, Philbeck. #600.
28 Feb 1775, GRANT. William Willis [Sr] 200 acres in Tryon on both sides of Isaacs Creek of first broad River, joining MARGARET WILLIS. ABSTRACTS OF LAND PATENTS 1765-1775 Vol. 2 HOFFMAN. Pg 677. 9017 Pg. 198 [Grant awarded for ENTRY filed on 19 January 1773]
By 1775, various Willis/Buchanan family members owned 930 contiguous acres of land just north of modern day Polkville, NC. The land was on both sides of the 1st Broad River, south of where Duncan's creek and north of where Hinton's creek join the 1st Broad River. There were 4 adjacent farms:
1. William Sr - 500 Acres.
2. Margaret Cross (widow of Henry Willis) - 250 Acres.
3. William Jr - 130 Acres.
4. James Buchanan (married to Elizabeth Willis) - 50 Acres.
22 July 1778, ENTRY. held/discontinued. Stephen Langford claims 200 ac on both sides of 1st Broad R: includes widow's field at first ford above William Willis: entered Jul 22, 1778. ABSTRACTS OF LAND ENTRYS, TRYON & LINCOLN CO., NC 1778-1789, Pruitt GR 929.3 N8l.1 P971a 1778 Pg 18 #211 [This appears to be an attempt by Stephen Langford to lay claim to some or all of the 250 acres owned by Margaret Willis, widow of Henry. It appears his attempt failed.]
1779 - Tryon County gets eliminated and its lands become a part of Rutherford County.
1 April 1780, ENTRY. John Smith enters 150 A on Bucanon Br of Duncan's Cr waters on 1st Broad River; border: Shaw; being James Buchanon's improvement. RCNC Land Entries 1779-95, Pruitt Vol 1 #270 [James Buchanan is married to Elizabeth Willis, daughter of William Sr. James and Elizabeth lived on land adjacent to that of William Sr]
14 April 1782. William Willis Sr leaves a WILL. A copy of the WILL is on William's profile page in the WILLIS BRIDGES Family Tree. The 500 acre farm is divided 3 ways, to the oldest grandsons of each family: 1. Grandson Arthur Buchanan gets land bounded by the river and cabin branch 2. Grandson William, son of Jacob, all that part lying on that side of the river whereon his mother, Elizabeth, now lives 3. Grandson Henry, son of William Jr, all the remaining part. [In a 1797 land ENTRY, it becomes clear that all 500 acres winds up being owned by the widow of William Jr, Margaret Willis (maiden name believed to be either Nelson or Pickett). It is not clear how Arthur Buchanan's piece gets owned by Margaret. Nor is it clear how the piece given to Margaret's son, Henry, winds up back in her hands. In a 27 October 1796 transaction, Margaret buys back that piece given to William, son of Jacob Sr., who had since moved to Linhorn Co, Kentucky.]
3 March 1787, SALE. Margaret Cross and Isaac Hinton of RCNC to John Latimore, 250 acres on Hinton Creek of First Broad River, granted to William Willis and Margaret 1771 [s/b 1770]. RCNC Deed Bk O, Pg 74. BGSOTC Nov 2011 Pg 170. BGSOTC Aug 1994 Pg 133. [Margaret Cross was the widow of Henry Willis, later married Isaac Hinton. This 250 acres was the grant to Margaret Willis and Wm. Willis on 24 December 1770. Hinton's Creek was named for Isaac Hinton, the first settler on that creek].
10 February 1791, SALE. Hugh Smith to Wm. Willis [It is not clear if this is William Jr, or his son, William III], 60 lbs, 60 A on the north fork of Broad River, part of tract surveyed to John Isham. Wit: John Selman, James Buchanan #1490, 20 Jun 1795. BGSOTC Aug 1994 Pg 128. RCNC Deed Bk M Pg 134
3 October 1791, SALE. Hugh Smith of RCNC to John Black of same, 120 pounds, 240 acres on both side of First Little Broad River on the north fork. Wit: James Buchanan, Joseph Buchanan. #1335, 28 January 1795. BGSOTC May 1994 Pg 89. RCNC Deed Bk K Pg 67.
4 January 1792, GRANT. Henry Willis, 100 acres on the First Little Broad River. Grant #686 Book 75, Pg 404. File #668, MARS 12.14.108.668. #686 Know ye that we have granted unto Henry Willis one hundred acres of land in our County of Rutherford on First Little Broad River beginning at a black oak on the South Side of the river marked thus HW in or nary oaks line then East one hundred poles to a popular on the South bank of the River in David Ropers line then with said line up the river North twenty, East ninty four poles to a post oak and two black gums on the South bank of the river then North seventy five poles to a black oak then West one hundred and thirty poles to a White Oak then with Yorks line South one hundred and sixty poles to the beginning. To hold to the said Henry Willis his heirs and assigns forever dated the 4th day of January 1792.
6 October 1794, SALE. John Black to Arthur Buchanan, 160 lbs, 250 A on 1st Broad River granted to John Ison 16 Oct 1769. Wit: Nathan Thompson, Ephraim Black, Joseph Buchanan. #1699, 18 Mar 1796. BGSOTC Aug 1994 Pg 134. RCNC Deed Bk O Pg 113.
6 December 1794, SALE. Mark Brown of RCNC to Thomas Ledford of same, 60 pounds, 150 acres on Shole Creek of First Broad River, granted to William Goings. Wit: Arthur Buchanan, Ephraim Black, William McCurry. #312, 6 January 1798. BGSOTC Nov 1995 Pg 169. RCNC Deed Bk 7 Pg 63.
17 September 1796, ENTRY. John Noneley enters 80 A on Metisons Branch; border: Archey Nonely, William Willison [Willis], Margaret Willis on waters of 1st Broad River. Abstracts of Land Entries of Rutherford Co 1795-1803 PRUITT GR 929.3 N8ru P971a V.2 Pg 68 #988
27 October 1796, SALE. William Willis, son of Jacob Willis [Sr], of Linhorn Co, Ky, to Margaret Willis, executor of William Willis [Jr] estate of RCNC, 50 Lbs, 100 acres on Little Broad River, granted to grandfather William Willis Sr. Wit: Arthur Buchanan, Joshua Wilson, Harden Daniel #334. 20 Feb 1798. BGSOTC Nov 1995 Pg 170. RCNC Deed Bk 7 Pg 99.
8 March 1797, SALE. John Green of Burke Co to Archibald Nunnally, 100 Lbs, 100 A on Shoal branch of Hintons Ck. Wit: Thomas Thompson, Joseph Buchanan. #484 27 Jun 1798. RCNC Deed Bk 8 Pg 315, BGSOTC Feb 1996 Pg 22 [Note - See BGSOTC May 2010, Pgs 52 - 58. John Green moves to Burke County, which later become Yancey Co. Eventually, members of the Buchanan family move there, near him. Later generations of Greens and Buchanans inter-marry, many of whom move to Indiana. William Buchanan, a justice of the peace in 1830s Burke eventually gives testimony in the filing of a Revolutionary War Pension application of John Green.]
6 May 1797. SALE. Henry Willis of RCNC to John Boyd of same, 25 pounds, 50 acres on First Little Broad River joining York and Roper. Wit: Samuel Carpenter, John Barber. #387, 2 April 1798, RCNC Deed Bk 8 Pg 180, BGSOTC Feb 1996 Pg 20
14 Jul 1797, ENTRY. John Smith Sr enters 100 A: border: William Willis' old line both sides of 1st Broad River. Abstracts of Land Entries of Rutherford Co 1795-1803, Pruitt GR 929.3 N8ru P971a V.2 Pg 85 #1202
29 August 1797, ENTRY. Margaret Willis enters 14 acres in R Co on both sides of Isaac Cr; border: her 300 acre tract on Sout side and her 200 acre tract on North side; Frances Alexander to "settle" 4 shillings, enter money. Abstracts of Land Entries of Rutherford Co 1795-1803 PRUITT GR 929.3 N8ru P971a V.2 Pg 87 #1221 [This transaction makes it clear that Margaret, widow of William Jr, winds up with all 500 acres initially granted to William Sr., 300 acre 1764 grant + 200 acre 1775 grant.]
9 October 1797, ENTRY. Aarchelus Nunly enters 35 acres on Hinton's Creek; Border: Margaret Willis, Daniel Lattimore, Thomas Nunly. Abstracts of Land Entries of Rutherford Co 1795-1803, Pruitt GR 929.3 N8ru P971a V.2 Pg 88. #1231
11 December 1797, GRANT. William Buchanan, 100 acres. Book 96, pg 292. Grant #1367. File #1490 Mars 12.14.108.1488. Know Ye that we have granted unto William Buchanan one hundred acres of land in Rutherford County on both sides of First Broad River including a Cabbin. Beginning on at a Spanish Oak on the East bank of the River on Black's line then with said line North sixty eight East one hundred and two poles to a post Oak on Benjamin Brackett's line then with his South ninteen East one hundred and seventy poles crossing the river to a white oak in Willis' line then with said line South seventy and West one hundred poles to a stake then North twenty West one hundred and sixty six poles crossing the river to the beginning. To hold to said William Buchanan and his heirs or assignees froever datad the 11 day of December 1797.
7 April 1798, ENTRY. William Buchanan enters 100 ac in Rutherford Co. on E side of First Broad River; border; my own land and speculator's land; granted to Alixander. ABSTRACTS LAND ENTRIES: Abstracts of Land Entries of Rutherford Co 1795-1803, Pruitt GR 929.3 N8ru P971a V.2 Pg 98 #1345
10 April 1798, ENTRY. James Willis enters 50 A in Rutherford Co on N side of 1st Broad R; border: Joshua Wilson and Margaret Willis. Abstracts of Land Entries of Rutherford Co, 1795-1803, Pruitt GR 929.3 N8ru P971a V.2 Pg 100 #1356
27 August 1798, SALE. Archeley/Archelus Nunnelly of RCNC to John Dannel Sr. of same, 70 dollars, 35 acres on the south side of the First Broad River, one-half of a grant to said Arclelus Nummelly 1796, joining Willis, Jessee Richardson, widow Willis. Wit: Jessee Richardson, Joshua Wilson. #1120, 2 September 1800. BGSOTC Feb 1997, Pg 21.Deed Bk 14 Pg 334
13 September 1799, SALE. John Daniel of RCNC to Robert Wells, 180 dollars, 65 acres on the south side of First Broad River joining Margaret Willis, granted to said Daniel. Recorded marks of John Daniel and William Daniel. Wit: Jessee Richardson, James White. #1163. 6 October 1800. BGSOTC Aug 1997, Pg 142. RCNC Deed Bk 15 Pg 1a.
16 December 1799, GRANT. James Willis, 50 acres. Book 105, pg 359. File #1970, MARS 12.14.108.1969. #1844 Know ye that we have granted unto James Willis fifity acres of land Rutherford County lying on the North side of First Broad River. Beginning on a post oak by Joshua Wilsons lines running there North sixty East eighty poles to a pine, thence North seventeen West one hundred and five poles to a post Oak by the head of a branch, then South sixy West eighty poles to a stake on William Buchanans line, the with said line South seventeen East one hundred and five poles to the beginning. To hold to the said James Willis his heirs and assigns forever, Dated this 16th day of December 1799.
By 1800, various Willis/Buchanan family members owned 1,160 acres of land just north of modern day Polkville, NC. There were 7 farms in very close proximity of each other in the area around where Duncan, Wards and Hinton Creeks join the First Broad River:
1. Margaret Peggy, Nelson or Pickett (widow of William Willis Jr) - 500 acres
2. Arthur Buchanan - 250 acres
3. Henry Willis - 150 acres (100 grant + 50 purchased)
4. William Buchanan - 100 acres
5. William Willis III - 60 acres
6. James Willis - 50 acres
7. Joseph Buchanan (assumed living on James Buchanan old farm) - 50 acres
Note: It's assumed that nephew Jacob Jr along with John, Robert Willis still live on the main Willis farm with Margaret.
3 January 1800, SALE. Archalus Nunnaly of RCNC to John Donnall of same, 90 dollars, 45 acres on First Little Broad River joining Margaret Willis, mouth of Madisons branch. Wit: Jessee Richardson, William Wilson Sr. #1252, 11 February 1801. BGSOTC Aug 1997, Pg 145. RCNC Deed Bk 15 Pg 135
7 January 1800, SALE. Jessee Richardson of RCNC to John Danell of same. 90 dollars, 90 acres on the south side of First Broad River, conditional line with Joshua Wilson. Joining Margaret Willis. Granted to Richardson by Wm. Wilson 1797. Wit: John Hoyel, Wm. Danell. #1707. 29 September 1802. BGSOTC Aug 1998, Pg 126. RCNC Deed Bk 18
19 March 1800, SALE. Thomas Burlingson of Burk Co, to Thomas Hutchins of RCNC, 75 pounds, 200 acres on Turkeyfoot Branch of Hintons Creek joining William Willis [III], granted to Thomas Burlonson 16 November 1790. Wit: VClayborn Condrey, Alexr. Miller. #1368, 3 August 1801. BGSOTC Aug 1997, Pg 183. RCNC Deed Bk 15 Pg 287
10 April 1800, SALE. Arthur Buchanan of RCNC to William Buchanan of same, 70 pounds, 75 acres on the east side of First Broad River, part of a grant to John Ison 16 December 1769, joining Margaret Willis. Wit: Jospeh Frances, John Parker. #1358, 29 July 1801. BGSOTC Nov 1997 Pg 183. RCNC Deed Bk 16 Pg 275
12 July 1800, SALE. James Willis of RCNC to Robert Wells of same, 19 dollars, tract on the west side of First Broad River joining Robert Wells. Wit: Daniel Lattimore, John Conventain. #1253, 11 February 1801. BGSOTC Aug 1997 Pg 145. RCNC Deed Bk 15 Pg 137. [No indication of acerage involved]
12 November 1802, SALE. James Willis and Jacob Willis [Jr], both of RCNC, to Robert Wells of same, 300 dollars, 101 acres on the east side of Hintons Creek. Wit: Israel Riggs, Ezekiel Price. #97, 2 October 1807. BGSOTC Feb 2003 Pg 35. RCNC Deed Bk 24 Pg 91.
12 November 1802, SALE. James Willis and Jacob Willis [Jr], both of RCNC, to Robert Wells of same, 60 dollars, 19 acres on the south side of Hintons Creek. Wit: Israel Riggs, Ezekiel Price. #100, 2 October 1807. BGSOTC Feb 2003 Pg 35. RCNC Deed Bk 24 Pg 94.
5 November 1804, SALE. Archelus Nunly of RCNC to Daniel Lattimore of the same, 20 dollars, 20 acres on Knob Creek joining Daniel Lattimore, Marget Wilkins [Willis], and William Willis [III], being part of a grant to said Nunley 22 December 1798. Wit: Robert Wells, Thos. Nunnelly. #310, 17 November 1821. BGSOTC May 2010, Pg 67. RCNC Deed Bk 33, Pg 602.
2 February 1805, ENTRY. William Wilson Jr enters 200 ac in Rutherford Co. on N side of 1st Broad R; border: Margaret Willis, William York, & his own line; issued. Abstract of Land Entries Rutherford Co, NC Jan 1804 - April 1826 A.B. Pruitt. Pg 13 #187
7 February 1805, SALE. William Wilson Sr of RCNC to sons Joshua Wilson and William Wilson Jr. of same, sons by my first wife Frances Wilson, for natural love and affection which I have and bear to them, 450 acres on the First Broad River deeded to me by Alexander, Samuel and John Miller, joining Margaret Willis. Son William has bought his brother Joshua's part before signing. Wit: J Withrow, John Price, Jn Withrow. #6, 29 Auguest 1805. BGSOTC Nov 2001 Pg 155. RCNC Deed Bk 23 Pag 352.
26 October 1805, SALE. Thomas Thompson of RCNC to Phillip Philback of same, 73 dollars, 73 acres on the head branches of Pickskin branch of Hinton Creek above the old powder mill, being the western part of a grant to said Thompson 16 December 1799. Wit: William Buchanan, James Thompson. #217, 17 June 1806. BGSOTC May 2002 Pg 93. RCNC Deed Bk 23 Pg 541
29 October 1805, SALE. William Willis [III] and James Willis of RCNC to Robert Wells of the same, 120 dollars, 40 acres on Hintons Creek of First Little Broad River. Wit: Jacob Willis [Jr], Edw. Jones #479, 15 November 1824. BGSOTC, Nov 2012, Pg 153. RCNC Deed Bk 34, Pg 310.
7 November 1805, SALE. Archibald Nunly of RCNC to Robert Wells of the same, 30 dollars, 14 acres on Hintons Creek joining Margaret Willis. Wit: Sheldrake Chitwood. Matther B____. #143, 2 December 1809. BGSOTC Aug 2004, Pg 127. RCNC Deed Bk 25, Pg 140.
11 November 1805, SALE. Thomas Hutchins of RCNC to Daniel Lattimore of the same, 150 dollars. 150 acres on Turkey Foot Branch of Hintons Creek joining Wm. Willis, Margaret Crazes [Cross] line, and Thomas Mumley. Wit: John Lattimore, John Dyer. #21, 4 February 1813. BGSOTC Feb 2006, Pg 8. RCNC Deed Bk 27, Pg 19.
15 Janaury 1806, SALE. Frederick Ledford of RCNC to William Buchanan of same, 27 dollars and a half, 9 acres on First Broad River joining said Buchanan "which land the sd. Ephraim Black got by heirship on his fathers right having date April the 26th 1774" and Black conveyed to Ledford. Wit: Arthur Buchanan, Thomas Parker. #377, 18 February 1807. BGSOTC Aug 2002 Pg 136. RCNC Deed Bk 23 Pg 662.
15 April 1806, SALE. Nathan Hamrick and wife Delilah of RCNC to George Doggett of same, 1100 dollars, 500 acres on the southwest side of the First Broad River above Kuykendols foard, part of a grant to John Grady for 200 acres 29 April 1768 and part for 320 acres to Peter Queen 13 October 1783. Wit: William Bryson, Martha Bryson, Jane Buchanan. #154, 5 May 1806. BGSOTC May 2002 Pg. 89. RCNC Deed Bk 23 Pg 484
1 November 1806, SALE. James Willis and William Willis [III] of RCNC to Robert Wells of the same, 200 dollars, 99 acres on Hintons Creek of 1st Broad River joining Margaret Willis and Wells, granted to William Willis [Sr] 28 February 1775. Wit: Nimrod Street, Jacob Willis [Jr], #478, 15 November 1824. BGSOTC, Nov 2012, Pg 153. RCNC Deed Bk 34, Pg 310.
15 Jan 1806, ENTRY. Thomas Parker enters 200 ac in Rutherford Co on E side of 1st Broad River; border; his own line and Wm. Buchanan. Pruitt, Abstracts 1804-36 Pg 22 #317
24 October 1807, SALE. William Buchanan of RCNC to Daniel Rinehart of LCNC 300 dollars, 100 acres on First Broad River joining Benjamin Bracket and Willis. Wit: David Hoyle, Solomon Hays. #44, 13 May 1809. BGSOTC May 2004, Pg 77. RCNC Deed Bk 25, Pg 45 [This was the land granted to William Buchanan in 1797].
24 October 1807, SALE. Arthur Buchanan of RCNC to Daniel Rinehart of LCNC 450 dollars, 225 acres on First Broad River joining John Hoyle (formerly Willis), Isoms fish dam, granted to John Isom 16 December 1769. Wit: John Hoyle, Benjamin Beaver. #45, 14 May 1809. RCNC Deed Bk 25, Pg. 45
1808, SALE. Thomas Parker of RCNC to Caigah McCurry of same, 60 pounds, 50 acres on Wards Creek of First Broad River joining lands formerly of William Going and Thomas Black including the mill and shoal, being part of a grant to Frederick Hambright 13 October 1783. Wit: William Buchanan, Andrew Parker. #102, 22 November 1817. BGSOTC Nov 2006, Pg 188. RCNC Deed Bk 30, Pg 300.
29 March 1808, SALE. William Buchanan of RCNC to Daniel Reinhardt/Rinehardt of the same, twenty seven dollars and 50 cents, 9 acres on First Broad River joining lands Reinhardt bought from Buchanan, being land that Ephraim Black got by heirship, his father's right bearing date 26 April 1774 and conveyed by Ephraim Black to Fredrick Ledford and by Ledford to William Buchanan. Wit: John Hoyle. #42, 12 May 1809. BGSOTC May 2004, Pg 77. RCNC Deed Bk 25 Pg 42.
14 April 1808, ENTRY. Robert Wells enters 50 ac in Rutherford Co on S side of 1st Broad R; border: Willm. York and Margaret Willis; issued. Abstract of Land Entries Rutherford Co, NC Jan 1804 - April 1826 A.B. Pruitt. Pg 35 #527
10 November 1809, SALE. Robert Farguson/Ferguson of RCNC to Robert Wells of the same, 100 dollars, 100 acres of Turkey Foot Branch of the First Broad River including Shadrick Green's old improvement, joining the speculation and Widow Miller, granted to Shedrick Cheetwood 23 March 1798. Wit: John Willis, Samuel Lattimore, Philip Logan. #16, 15 December 1817. BGSOTC Feb 2007, Pg 26. RCNC Deed Bk 31, Pg 332.
20 Jan 1810, SALE. Margaret Willis to Jacob Willis [Jr], $300, 90 A, on E side of 1st Broad River, part of tract granted to Wm Willis, willed to grandson Wm Willis, conveyed back Margaret Willis. Sign: Margaret, John, James Willis. Wit: John Hoyle, Robert Wells #111 BGSOTC May 2006 Pg. 60. RCNC Deed Book 28 Pg. 357
26 November 1810, SALE. Wm York of RCNC to Robt Wells of the same, $220, 4 tracts: 1. 45 acres on 1st Broad joining William Wilson and Margaret Willis. 2. 20 acres on Maddisons branch joining Robert Wells 3. 60 acres joining Wm. Wilson Jr and Willis. 4. 40 Acres on Maddisons branch joining Wm. Wilson, above tracts left to Dannals by will of John Danalds Sr dec'd and by Danalds to Wm. York, 2 January 1807. Wit: William Porter, James Taylor. #27 3 January 1815. BGSOTC May 2006, Pg 55. RCNC Deed Bk 28, Pg. 278
24 Jan 1812, SALE. Fredrick Ledford to James Boshears, 200 dollars, 91 A on 1st Broad River below Thomas Parker, joining William Buchanan, land Ephraim Black got by heirship 26 Apr 1774, Black conveyed to Ledford. Wit: Wm Smith, John Parker. BGSOTC May 2006 Pg 62, RCNC Deed Bk 28 Pg. 392
15 September 1815, SALE. John Willis of RCNC to Jacob Ivester of the same, 400 dollars, 176 acres on First Broard River joining John Hoyles and Ison fishdamn, granted to John Ison, part to James Willis and from then conveyed to John Willis. Wit. James Willis, Hugh Ivester. #275, 22 August 1823. BGSOTC, May 2012, Pg 79. RCNC Deed Bk 34, Pg 184.
16 November 1815, SALE. John Lattimore Senr. of RCNC to John Parker of same, 120 dollars, 139 acres on Duncans Creek, Black's Branch, joining Thomas Black, Peter S. Duponceau and Abraham Kintzing, and Wm. Wilkey, granted to Samuel Whiteside 9 Aug 1787. Wit: Wm. Willkie, Jacob Haynes. BGSOTC, Aug 2012, Pg 131. RCNC Deed Bk 34, Pg 269.
27 April 1816, SALE. Abraham Bennet of Lincoln County, North Carolina. to Robert Wells of RCNC, 50 dollars, 200 acres granted to David Ramsey 7 August 1787. Wit: James Willis, Bekenny Wells. #225, 26 October 1821. BGSOTC Nov 2009, Pg 190. RCNC Deed Bk 33, Pg 559.
29 August 1816, SALE. John Lattimore of RCNC to Jacob Haynes of the same, 200 dollars, 50 acres on Buchanons Branch of Duncans Creek night the road side from said Lattimores to the Methodist meeting house, joining Wm. K. Hunt, young John Lattimore, and Wm. Beard, being part of a grant to Benjamin Shaw in 1766; also, 29 acres adjoining it, except for 2 acres excluded including Lattimore's Meeting house and so called the graveyard and a spring. Wit: John Hoyle. #321, 19 November 1823. BGSOTC, May 2012, Pg 82. RCNC Deed Bk 34, Pg 213.
23 February 1818, SALE. Alexander Gowan of RCNC to Robert Willis of the same, 200 dollars, 200 acres on Wards Creek including the house and improvements the said Gowan now lives on, joining Walbert and McCartey, granted to Jas Huddleston 9 July 1794. Wit: John C. Elliott, Hugh Gowan. #120, 2 August 1818.
29 October 1822, SALE. Wm. Smith of Lincoln Co, Tenn to Adam Whistant Senr., $300, 586 acres on Duncans Creek joining Parker, granted to John Smith and others,. Wit: Abraham Crow Sr., Adam Whisnant Jr #446, 7 Aug 1824. BGSOTC, Aug 2012, Pg 133. RCNC Deed Bk 34, Pg 290.
19 April 1824, SALE. John Hoyle of McMin County to Robert Wells of RCNC, 650 dollars, (1) 100 acres on First Broad River, mouth of Hinton Creek, the Cabbib branch, being part of a grant to Wm. Willis 16 November 1764, (2) 100 acres joining Buckhannon granted to John Hoyle 15 March 1796, (3) 15 acres joining Willis, including the old barn, (4) 225 acres on First Broad River below Isums fish dam, joining Isum, (5) tract on First Broad River joining Black, Benjamin Bracket, and Willis, (6) 9 acres on First Broad River joining Black; in all, 549 Acres. Wit: Adam Whisnant, Thomas Martin, #441, 6 August 1824. BGSOTC, Aug 2012, Pg 133. RCNC Deed Bk 34, Pg 284.
10 May 1824, SALE. Thomas Parker of RCNC to Robert Wells of the same, 2000 dollars, 407.5 acres being part of five tracts including the plantation where the said Parker now lives, on Wards Creek and Duncans Creek, below Micajah McCurry's mills, joining Whisenhunt, John Parker, Tench Coxe and Co, James Bosheer, Ibber Price, John Hoyle, Buckhannon, Willis and Peter Hoyle. Wit: Frs. Alexander, Jno. K. Wells. #42, 19 May 1825. RCNC Deed Bk 35. Pg. 40.
26 August 1831, SALE. Micajah McCurry of RCNC to Simeon McCurry of the same, 500 dollars, tract on Wards Creek of First Broad River, joining Ledford, Whisnant, and John Willis. Wit: Lewis McCurry, David Gardner. #171, 6 August 1832. BGSOTC Spring 2014. RCNC Deed Bk 38, Pg 532.
3 January 1831, Robert Wells of RCNC to Samuel S. Gidney of the same, 450 dollars, 200 acres on Hintons Creek of First Broad River joining the Speculation, a grant to Shadrach Chitwood, Willis, Thomas Ledford, and Lattimore, being part of two grants, on to Wm. Willis 28 February 1775 and one to Shadrach Chitwood 22 December 1798. Wit: Aaron Waters, Owen London. #302, 21 February 1832. BGSOTC Fall 2013, Pg 145. RCNC Deed Bk 37, Pg 274.
NORTH CAROLINA WILLIS, Haplogroup E-L117
The Central Virginia Willis family of Henry Willis 1730 - 1810, came to Rutherford in the late 1780s, after a two or three decade stop in Caswell County, North Carolina. In Rutherford County, they settled on Knob Creek, near modern day Belwood, North Carolina. Both the Maryland and North Carolina Willis families lived within a few miles of each other. However, these two groups of Willis are unrelated. Within the Willis Y-DNA project, their descendants test into different haplogroups, meaning these two groups do not share a common male ancestor going back 1000s of years. But, the names Henry, John, William, and James were common across both families, making it difficult to easily distinguish between the records of these two unrelated groups of Willis.
The Central Virginia Willis settled on Knob Creek, near modern day Belwood, North Carolina. The Maryland Willis lived on the First Little Broad River, near Hinton and Wards Creeks, near modern day Polkville, North Carolina.
Land Transactions for THE NORTH CAROLINA GROUP of Willis:
15 November, 1788, ENTRY. William Willis enters 100 ac in Rutherford Co on a branch of Knob Creek; includes Samuel Ghiseling's improvement; border: near Peter Johnston and Jacob Moony; granted to Rigs. Abstract of Land Entries, Rutherford County Pruitt Vol 1 1179-1795. Pg 81 #976.
25 February 1789, ENTRY. Joseph Willis enters 300 ac in Rutherford Co on waters of Knob Creek; borders; Hugh Ivester and John Hiltebran; due for altering Davison by James Wilson Capt; discontinued by order. Pg 82 #993.
8 July 1793, SALE. Robert Duncan of Orange Co, NC to James Palley or RCNC, 50 pounds, 338 acres on both sides of Knobb Creek of First Broad River, granted to John Kirkconell 28 February 1775, conveyed to Peter Johnson 1 January 1788. Wit: Thomas Boyd, Benjamin Willis. #1338, 3 February 1795. BGSOTC May 1994, Pg 89. RCNC Deed Bk L Pg 72.
15 November 1796, SALE. William Willis of RCNC to George Mooney of same, 60 pounds, 60 acres on Nob Creek. Wit: Joseph Willis, Benjamin Willis. #1763, 22 March 1803. BGSOTC Aug 1998 Pg 128. RCNC Deed Bk 18 Pg 145.
9 February 1798, SALE. James Willson Esqr. of LCNC to the Elders of Union Congregation: John Orr, James Mcllallan, James Polley, JOhn Ensly of LCNC and RCNC, 7 dollars, 7 1/2 acres on Knobb Creek, part of a grant to him, joining Benjamin Willis, for the use of a meeting house for worship and graveyard. Wit: James Willison, Jas. Kidd. #128, 2 September 1803 BGSOTC May 1999, Pg 78. RCNC Deed Bk 21 Pg. 188.
24 January 1799, SALE. Henry Moss of RCNC to Thomas White of same. 75 pounds, 100 acres on the west side of First Little Broad River joining Joseph Willis. Wit: Banaby Beadeson, James Moore, Soloman Martin. #1219, 9 January 1801. BGSOTC Aug 1997, Pg 144. RCNC Deed Bk 15 Pg. 87
16 October 1799, SALE. James Bryant of RCNC to William Randle of RCNC, 9 dollars, 150 acres on Maple and Knobb Creek joining Benjamin Willis, part of a grant to said Bryant 22 December 1797, entered 21 February 1795. Wit: Andrew Taylor, Benjamin Beaver. #19, 15 May 1819. BGSOTC May 2007, Pg 79. RCNC Deed Bk 32, Pg. 18.
29 Janauary 1801, SALE. Benjamin Beaver of RCNC to Wm. Randal of the same. 125 dollars. 100 acres on Knobb Creek joining Benjamin Willis, Wm. Beaver, and James Wilson, being part of a grant to Jas. Wilson. Wit: Andrew Taylor, Hesekiah Davis. #15, 12 May 1819. BGSOTC May 2007, Pg. 79. RCNC Deed Bk 32, Pg 13.
6 October 1804, SALE. James Wilson to David Willis, 62 1/2 dollars, 161 acres on Knob Creek joining Hoyle. Wit: Adam Hoyle, Randel Willis. #155, 4 December 1804. BGSOTC Aug 1999 Pg 133. RCNC Deed Bk 22 Pg 168.
9 April 1805, ENTRY. Benjamin Willis enters 250 ac in Rutherford Co on waters of and E side of Knob Creek; border; William Randal, Bennet "highfured" and Alexander Wilson; includes the improvement where said Willis lives; issued. Abstracts of Land Entries Rutherford Co January 1804 - April 1826, Pruitt GR 929.3 N8ru P971a V3 Pg 15 #219
29 July 1811, SALE. James Tate of RCNC to Byard McCraw of the same. 100 dollars, tract on Broad River. Wit: Samuel Tate, Joseph Willis. #205, 10 August 1821. BGSOTC Nov 2009, Pg 186. RCNC Deed Bk 33, Pg 509.
20 November 1811, SALE. James Wilson of RCNC to David Willis of the same. 40 pounds, 50 acres on Knob Creek joining David Kline. Wit: George Ivester, Benjamin Beaver, David Kline. #10, 2 February 1813. BGSOTC Feb 2006, Pg. 7. RCNC Deed Bk 27, Pg. 10.
25 March 1812, SALE. Benjamin Willis of RCNC to Hezekiah D. Beaver of the same, 102 dollars, 88 acres on Knob Creek of Broad River joining William Randal, being part of a grant to Peter Johson 1775. Wit: David Willis, Benjamin Beaver. #327, 25 November 1821. BGSOTC May 2010, Pg 68. RCNC Deed Bk 33, Pg 614.
3 December 1812, SALE. Joseph Willis of RCNC to Charles Wilkins of the same, 250 dollars, 500 acres on Main Broad River: (1) 100 acres including the Island Ford, (2) the other 4 (hundred) acres joining Peter Willis, the river, Ruben Blanton, Humphreys, and Tate, entered 12 October 1802. Wit: Peter Willis, Joseph Willis. #149, 18 March 1814. BGSOTC Nov 2008, Pg 190. RCNC Deed Bk 27, Pg 149.
20 February 1817, SALE. Solomon Hoyle of RCNC to Burney Peeler of same, 350 dollars, 145 acres on the west fork of Knobb Creek joining Davis. Wit: David Willis, Henry Twigs. #115, 3 December 1817. BGSOTC Nov 2006, Pg. 189. RCNC Deed Bk 30, Pg. 318.
26 September 1818, SALE. Burrell Grigg Sr to Burrell Grigg Jr, both of RCNC, 50 dollars, 139 acres joining Elam, Williams, and Willis, part of 300 acres granted to William Hudson 20 December 1796. Wit: John Elam, Alexander Elam, Abner Grigg. #83, 15 May 1821. BGSOTC Aug 2009, Pg. 379. RCNC Deed Bk 33, Pg 379.
17 March 1820, SALE. Joseph Willis Sr and Daniel Mooney of RCNC to Margaret Friday, Judy Friday, Betsy Friday and Robert Friday, the three last people of color, also of RCNC, 200 dollars, to Margaret Friday during her natural life and at her death to the said Judy, Betsy and Robert Friday. 88 acres on Nob Creek joining Cline, Joseph Carpenter, and Daniel Mooney. Wit: David Cline, John Kline. #54, 9 April 1821. RCNC Deed Bk 33, Pg 342.
18 March 1820, SALE. Joseph Willis Sr of RCNC to Margaret Friday, Judy Friday, Betsy Friday and Robert Friday, the three last people of color, also of RCNC, 100 dollars, to Margaret Friday during her natural life and at her death to the said Judy, Betsy and Robert Friday. 50 acres on Nob Creek joining Cline, Joseph Carpenter, and Daniel Mooney. Wit: David Cline, John Kline. #53, 7 April 1821. RCNC Deed Bk 33, Pg 241.
10 February 1824, Robert Willis of Lincoln County, North Carolina to Margaret Friday of RCNC, 14 dollars, 14 1/2 acres on Knobb Creek during her natural life and after her death to Judy Friday, Betsy Friday, and Robert Friday. Wit: Joseph Self, William Self. #516, 16 February 1825. BGSOTC Nov 2012 Pg 155. RCNC Deed Bk 34, Pg 333.
1 May 1824, SALE. Ben Willis to John Cline, both of RCNC, 100 dollars, 58 acres on Knob Creek joining Glenn. Wit: Jacob Cline, Alexander Glenn. #139, 3 February 1826. BGSOTC Spring 2013, Pg. 33. RCNC Deed Bk 35, Pg 140.
1 May 1824, SALE. Benjamin Willis to Alex. Glynn, both of RCNC, 45 dollars, 15 acres on Knob Creek being part of a tract belonging to said Willis. Wit: John Kline, Jacob Cline. #74, 3 February 1827. BGSOTC Summer 2013. RCNC Deed Bk 36, Pg 46.
27 September 1824, SALE. Benjamin Willis to Jacob Cline, both of RCNC, 250 dollars, 204 acres more or less on Nob Creek, joining Jefferson and John Cline. Wit: John Cline, David Cline. #77, 5 February 1827. BGSOTC Summer 2013, Pg 65. RCNC Deed Bk 36, Pg 47.
15 October 1824, SALE. William Carson, Esqr., sheriff of RCNC, to Robert Wells of the same, tract sold for taxes for 1821 and 1822, owner not stated, on Maple Swamp and Knob Creek joining Thos. Greer, Moffit, Peeler, Polley, Low, Ben Willis, Dawson, White, Little, Eben Newton, and Welmon; exposed to sale 12 July 1824 and Robert Wells became highest bidder at 75 acres of said land, joining Peeler, Polley, Love, Ben Willis, Dawson, White, Little, Wellmon, Greer, and Elam., at $2.90. #45, 24 May 1825. BGSOTC Spring 2013, Pg 28. RCNC Deed Bk 35, Pg 46.
6 January 1831, SALE. James Willis to Eliza H. Lewis, both of RCNC, 220 dollars. 96 1/2 acres on Knob Creek joining John H Wilson, Randal, Cline. Wit: John A Wilson, James Lewis. #20, 23 November 1831 BGSOTC Spring 2014, Pg 23. RCNC Deed Bk 38, Pg. 383
Warrants further investigation:
2085-D JOHN BUCKANAN, dealer and chapman of the Yadkin in North Carolina, from JOHN BARNS, planter of Craven Co, South Carolina. 21 November 1758, 500 acres on the south side of the Catawba River. Wit: Henry Oneal, James Snow, Wm. Donaldson. ANson Deed Bk 6, p. 359. For description see 1054-P, February 2000, p. 7. BGSOTC Feb 2003 Pg 10 Catawba River Basin Pioneers, Part 9: 1758.
2448-D Reverend ALEXANDER CRAIGHEAD of Anson Co., from HENRY VERNER and wife BARBARA of Anson Co., 6 July 1762, 480 acres on both sides of the Long creek between Thos. Clark's and Joy's lines. Wit: Robert Harris, John Buckanan, Robert Harris Senior. Anson Deed Bk. 6, p. 366. For descriptions see 1522-P, August 2001, p. 123. See also 2147-D, August 2003, p. 115. BGSOTC Feb 2004, Pag 15.
2437-D JOHN ARMOR son of JENETTE ARMOR of Anson Co puts himself apprentice to JOHN BUCHANAN, 1 July 1762, to learn the mistery of and art of the Taylors trade for the term of four years and six months. Wit: John Wilson, Robert Harris Jr. Anson Co. Deed Bk 6, Pg 358. BGSOTC Feb 2004, Pg. 14.
13 July 1832, SALE. Wm. Carson Esq., high sheriff of RCNC, to Robt. G. Twitty of RCNC, per four writs of venditioni exponas from the County Court of Rutherford against the property of William Wallis for 226 dollars recovered by William M. Groves, Robt. G. Twitty, Edward Janes assinee and Susannah Liverett of said William Wallis, commanding Carson to sell 167 acres subject to the dower of Ruth Wallis, lying in two tracts, joining Procter, Walton, 130 acres; also 37 acres joining Andrew Logan, James Logan, Proctor, and Craig; exposed to sale 11 July 1832 and Robt. G. Twitty became the highest bidder at 225 dollars. Wit: John Logan. #167, 6 August 1832. BGSOTC Spring 2014, Pg. 30. RCNC Deed Bk 38 Pg 526
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