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Sunday, April 19, 2020

LEWIS SHAPARD: SOURCES 1


1.     1773
Lewis Shapard was born in Cumberland County Virginia circa 1773. His parents were William Shapard (c.1741-1807) and Mary Booker (1746-1804) They were married in Essex County, Virginia circa 1762. Mary was the daughter of James and Elizabeth Howlett (?) Booker of Gloucester, Virginia. The book Shapard a Family History lists his birth date erroneously as November 24, 1759 (most likely in an effort from earlier historians to make him old enough to fight in the Revolutionary War). The same sources also list him erroneously as being born in Gloucester County, Virginia.

Note: Lewis Shapard’s name originated from his maternal great grandmother, Amy Lewis who married James Booker, Sr. However, he was probably named in honor of his maternal uncle, Lewis Booker.

2.     (William and Mary Quarterly, Vol 7, series 1927)
From 1926 through the 1940s, Mr. William Shepard wrote and submitted numerous articles for publication in the William & Mary Quarterly about the Shepard family. He references a series of old letters from the 1780s through 1812 that he claims he located which were authored by early Shepards from Virginia. He further connected the Shepard and Shapard family lines via the pedigree he authored in 1927. It was here where the name “Lewis Thomas Shapard” first appeared. Since 1926, Shapard research genealogists have used these articles and his old letters to construct our pedigree and to build our early history. To my dismay, my research over the last few years has completely rebuked the claims and letters submitted by William Shepard, proving all to be either a hoax and/or grossly misrepresentative of its connection to the Shapard family. Even the name “Lewis Thomas Shapard” is in err… he apparently blended the names of two brothers (Lewis Shapard and Thomas Shapard) making one person! In any case, I would caution future research genealogists against using these faulty sources in further Shapard histories. They have been a thorn in the side of seeking truth in Shapard history.

Note: Because of the William & Mary articles authored by William Shepard, Lewis Thomas Shepard is listed on the Sons of the American Revolution Patriot Index as a soldier who was buried in the Old City Cemetery in Murfreesboro Tennessee #P-288687. This is an error in accurate history and should be disregarded. There is no such man named Lewis Thomas Shapard; this was actually a typographical error from 1926 and really should be Lewis Shapard and Thomas Shapard (two brothers).  Lewis was born about 1773, thus would have been too young to have been a soldier. There is much doubt that was buried in Old City Cemetery, as the source is very distant from the event.

3.     Caswell County, North Carolina
In 1777, Caswell County was formed from Orange County, North Carolina and was located in the northern part of the state, bordering Virginia. Leasburg was the site of the first courthouse in the new county. In 1784, Caswell County had 8 districts (Richmond, Caswell, Gloucester, St. David, St. Lawerence, St. Luke, St. James and Nash) which were reduced to four, in 1792, when St. Lawerence, St. Luke, St. James and Nash districts were carved from Caswell County’s eastern section and made into Persons County, North Carolina. Due to the boundary revision of Caswell County, Leasburg was no longer conveniently located for the county seat, and was replaced by a more centrally located site, named Caswell Courthouse, renamed Yancyville in 1833. The land for the new court house was purchased in 1792 and construction was completed in 1794. The court house sat between the Raddlesnake Creek to the north and the Country Line Creek to the south. Most of the land around Caswell Courthouse was owned by the Graves family. After the Revloutionary war, a census was taken and Caswell County was the second most populous County in all of North Carolina, second only to Halifax County. The main towns in Caswell were Milton (in the northeast), Caswell Counrthouse (central) and Leasburg (in the east near the Person County border). Growth was slow near Caswell Court house: In 1810, Caswell Courthouse had two taverns, one store, one hattery and about 15 houses. It was a rural area.

Note: (Source: History of Caswell County North Carolina) In 1790, Caswell County had  about 10,000 population with 1,412 heads of family equaling about 7,288 whites and 2,736 slaves. There heads of families in the various districts were:
St. David – 166
Richmond – 253
Caswell – 201
Gloucester – 211

Nash – 118
St. James – 111
St Lawerence – 215
St. Luke – 137
In 1792, many roads were designed to connect to the location of the Caswell Courthouse. 1794 the Caswell County Courthouse was built on the land of John Ingram. In 1796 legislation established Tobacco and Flour inspection warehouses in the town of Milton at the mouth of Country Line Creek and Dan River. By 1810 there were a great many distilleries in operation in Caswell County which were becoming nuisances to society.

4.        1779 (Caswell County North Carolina Deed Book A, p. 227). State of NC to Leonard Brown 616 acres in Caswell Co on both sides Harts Hillsborough Road and on the waters of Country Line Creek. Beginning at post oak on William Browns Line run east 40 ch crossing the road and by land claimed by Hudson Berry to black jack, then N 5 ch by same land to black oak, then east 26 ch by same land to black jack then North 94 ch with Bazzell Davis line to stake, then west 60 ch by land claimed by Luke Pendergast and William Rice crossing some branches of County Line Creek to black jack, then south 40 ch by land claimed by John Rice to stake, then west 6 ch to stake on William Brown line, then south 59 ch with said Brown line crossing Harts Road to beginning.

5.        1779 (Caswell County North Carolina Deed Book A, p. 249). State of NC to William Rice 255 acres on South Fork  of Country Line Creek. Beginning on the north west side of said branch at a stake John Rice corner run east 37 ch 50 L by land claimed by Richard Estes to stake, then south 68 ch by land claimed by William Jones crossing the branches to stake on Leonard Browns line, then West 37 ch 50 L with said Brown line to stake on said line John Rice corner, then north 68 ch with John Rice line crossing the branches to beginning.

Note: This land was sold by William Rice to William Slade in 1789. (deed book F, p 300)

6.        1779 (Caswell County North Carolina Deed Book A, p. 133). State to Bazell Davis, 200 acres on both sides of the middle fork of the south fork of Country Line Creek. Beginning on the east side of side fork at a black oak and post oak running North 40 ch crossing the fork and by land claimed by Cliffton Allen to a post oak, then west 50 ch crossing some branches by vacant land to stake, then south 40 ch by land entered by Leonard Brown to hickory and gum, then east 50 ch by land entered by Hudson Berry crossing said middle fork to beginning.

7.     1779 (Caswell County North Carolina Deed Book A, p. 239). Between the State of North Carolina and John Rice, Sr.,640 acres land in Caswell County on the waters of Country Line Creek. Beginning at a black jack on Henry Williams line running with his line north 48 chains to blackjack, Williams corner, thence north 67 degrees east 24 chains 50 links by land claimed by Alexander Kerr crossing a branch to stake, thence north 35 chains by same land to stake, thence east 58 chains by land claimed by Richard Estice [Estes] crossing some branches to stake and white oak, thence south 68 chains by land of William Rice to stake on Leonard Browns line, thence west 14 chains with Browns line to his corner black jack, thence south with his line 25 chains to red bud on said line, thence west 67 chains 90 links to the first station.

8.     1780 (Caswell County North Carolina Deed Book F, p. 349). State to Bazzell Davis, 200 acres of Country Line Creek. Begin at a w.o. corner of William Austin and run South 36 degrees with Hudson Berry and Clifton Allens line 45 ch until it intersects an east/west line of Joel Cardors then east his line 41 ch 65 L to stake, then north 36 ch 50 L to stake on William Austins line, then with his line to beginning.

9.     1783 (Caswell County North Carolina Deed Book B, p. 311). State to William Jones 350 acres, on Country Line Creek. Begin at p.o. Richard Eoles [Estes?] corner and run with his line West 5 ch to hack oak on his line, then South 55 ch crossing a fork of Country Line to hickory, then East 55 ch to p.o., then North 64 ch 6 L crossing the fork by Gooches claim of land to b.j., then west 50 ch by said Gooches claim and vacant land to stake on Estes line, then his line south 9 ch 6 L to beginning.

10.   1783 (Caswell County North Carolina Deed Book B, p. 347). State to William Jones 188 acres, on Country Line Creek. Beginning at a b.o. his corner on Richard Estes line running his line west 35 ch to r.o. on his line, then South 27 ch to b.o. on William Rices line, then his line East 20 ch to stake his corner, then his line South 35 ch to stake on his line, then east 70 ch to p.o. then north 7 ch to p.o. Jone’s own corner, then his line West 55 ch to hickory his corner, then north with his line 55 ch to first station.

11.   1783 (Deed Book B, p. 270). State of North Carolina to Alexander Kerr, 350 acres in Caswell County on waters of South Fork of Country Line Creek. Beginning at blackjack, Henry Williams old corner John Rice corner and running with said Rice line north 47° east 24 Ch 50L to stake in his corner, thence his line north 42 Ch 50L to stake his corner, thence his line east 13 Ch to post oak on said line R. Estes corner, thence Estes line north 31 Ch 70 L crossing the fork to two post oaks on said Estes line, thence west by vacant land 67 Ch to black oak on _(?)_ line, then his line south 42 Ch to red oak his corner on Williams old survey line, thence on said line east 32 Ch to hickory his corner, thence with the said line south 40 Ch to beginning.

Note: Alexander Kerr (1726-1813) married Mary Elizabeth Rice in 1750. He migrated to Caswell County before 1778, purchasing three tracts of land totaling 928 acres. In 1787 he had eleven slaves. He had nine children: Elizabeth (1752) m. Mr. Richey; John Kerr; Sarah (1755) m. William Gooch, Jr.; Susannah (1757) m. Mr. Taylor; Ann “Nancy” (1759) m. John Spencer; Mary (1761) m. Mr. Spencer; Martha (1763) m. William Slade; Frances (1765) m. George Barker; Lucy (1774) m. James Yancy.

12.   1783 (Deed Book B, p. 308).  Between the State of North Carolina and John Rice. 400 acres in Caswell Co. on waters of the South Fork of Country Line Creek. Beginning at a white oak James Rices old corner running then with his line north 83 chains 40 links to a pine, thence west 53 chains 50 links by vacant land to post oak, thence south 59 chains by vacant land to a pond (pine) Richard Estes corner, thence his line south 59 degrees east 16 chains to dogwood his corner on the bank of Dry Fork, then down the said fork as it meanders to a poplar on the bank of said fork, thence south 4 chains 70 links crossing Dry Fork to the first station.

13.   1783 (Caswell County North Carolina Deed Book B, p. 232). State to Richard Estes. 500 acres on Dry Fork of Country Line Creek. Beginning at a walnut on James Rices line and run west 40 ch crossing said Dry Fork to p.o., then north 4 ch 50 L by John Rices claim to a poplar on the bank of the fork, then up the said Dry Fork as it meanders to a dogwood, then north 59 degrees west 16 ch by said Rices claim to pine, then north 20 ch to r.o. and maple, then west 39 ch crossing a spring branch to w.o. and black oak, then south by land claimed by Alexander Kerr 87 ch to p.o. on John Rices line, then his line east 50 ch to b.j. on William Rices line, then North 28 ch to p.o., then east 50 ch to o.o., then North 17 ch to beginning.

14.   c. 1784 (Deed Book B, p. 343) Between the State of North Carolina and William Gooch, Sr. 640 acres in Caswell County on waters of South Fork of Country Line Creek. Beginning at a blackjack on William Kimbroughs line and running his line west 60 chains to white oak on James Rices line, thence his line south 14 chains to a hickory his corner, thence his line west 23 chains to two blackjacks his corner on _____ line, on his line south 29 chains 50 links to post oak in William Jones line, then east with his line 18 chains to blackjack his corner, then his line south 87 chains to blackjack on Brooks line, thence with his line east 62 chains to post oak his corner on Parks line, thence his line north 34 chains 60 links to post oak his corner, thence east 18 chains to blackjack, thence north 35 chains to stake, thence west 13 chains to stake in old surveyed line, thence with said old line north 61 chains to the beginning. 

15.   c. 1784 (p. 344) Between the State of North Carolina and William Gooch, Sr. 190 acres in Casewll County on waters of South Fork Country Line Creek. Beginning at black oak Wiliiam Kimbroughs corner running thence with his line west 14 chians to blackjack said Gooches corner, thence his line south 61 chains to stake his old line, thence east 13 chains to stake his corner, thence his line south 35 chains to blackjack on Sam Kellys line, thence his line north 36 degrees east 44 chians to post oak his corner, thence west 11 chains 50 links to post oak, thence north 45 chains by William Gooch, Jr. line to ___ Budd_an corner, thence west  4 chains 50 links to red oak on the bank of the creek, thence up said creek as it meanders to first station.

16.   c. 1784 (p. 345) Between the State of North Carolina and William Gooch, Jr. 300 acres in Caswell County on the waters of South Fork of Country Line Creek. Beginning at a post oak Samuel Kellys corner and running then with his line [north/south?] 75 degrees east 20 chains to black oak his corner on John Graves line, thence with Graves line north 79 chains 50 links crossing the creek to stake his corner, thence  with Yanceys line [west] 45 chians to white oak William Kimbroughs  corner, thence his line south 26 chains to an almond tree on the bank of the creek, thence down the creek as it meanders to a small red oak on the bank, thence east 5 chains 50 links to red bud, thence south 45 chains by William Gooch, Sr. land to post oak, thence east 11 chains 50 links to first station

17.   December 26, 1786 (Caswell County North Carolina Marriage Bonds 1778-1864)
Joshua Carney married Lucy Miles and Lewis Shappard was listed as bondsman or witness
NOTE – This is an error in the book. The actual bond shows the bondsman was Edward Doyal NOT Lewis Shapard.


18.   c. 1787 (Deed Book D, p. 300) Between the State of North Carolina and Alexander Kerr, 200 acres in Caswell County on waters of Country Line Creek. Beginning at post oak on his own former line and running west 160 poles to post oak, thence south 200 poles to pine, thence east 160 poles to stake on James Dickins line, thence north his line to said Kerrs own line to the first station.

19.   1787 (Deed Book D, p. 344). Between the State of North Carolina and John Rice 40 ½ acres land in Caswell County on waters of Country Line Creek. Beginning at white oak Thomas Rices corner on George Foots line and running with said Rices line south 68 chains to poplar said Rices corner on Wadley Tates line, thence east 6 chains to stake and pointers, thence with John Hays and John Williams line north 68 chains to black oak said Williams corner on Foots line, thence with said Foots line east 6 chains to the first station.

20.   1789 (1789 Warren County tax list, North Carolina, OHS)
“Michael Nicholson” listed in Warren County, NC, Six Pound District as having one black pole.

Note: Michael Nicholson is not listed on the tax lists prior to this date.

21.   April 16, 1789 (Warren County, North Carolina, Will Book 5, p 860)
May Court 1789. Moses Myrick to daughter Polly Myrick a gift of negros, furniture and livestock. Witness Geo. Nicholson, Thomas Miller (jurat) and Michael Nicholson.

22.   1790 (1790 Warren County Tax List, North Carolina, OHS)
“Michael Nicholson” listed in Warren County, NC, Six Pound District as having one female pole and two black poles.

23.   1790 (Census, Warren County, North Carolina)
“Michael Nichols” listed in Warren County, NC census as having 2 males 16 y/o or older, 1 female 16 y/o or older, no children and 7 slaves.

Note: “Nichols” seems to be an abbreviation for Nicholson as there are no Nicholsons listed and the names of Nichols are familiar Nicholson names. The above census very well could be Michael Nicholson and his new bride Martha Paine. 

24.   c. 1790 (Deed Book H, p. 139)  William Gooch, Sr, to son William Gooch Jr. 203 acres of land in Caswell County on waters of South Fork of Country Line Creek. Beginning at a beech on the bank of said creek south side and running thence south  290 poles to post oak and pointers on William Gooch, sr. old line , thence west 123 poles to pointers his old corner, thence north his old line joining William Gooch, Jr., line 244 poles to white oak on the branch of the creek, thence down the creek as it meanders to the first station.

25.   1792 (Deed Book H, p. 285). William Brown to Alexander Kerr 20 acres land on waters of Stony Creek. Beginning on ash on branch running East along Alexander Kerr former line 19 Ch to black oak corner of the original, thence S 41°W30 Ch to pointers in old line, thence North along line bounded by Charles Leath 22 Ch 40 L to beginning.

26.   December 15, 1792 (North Carolina Estate Files, Caswell County , Michael Nicholson)
I promise to pay or cause to be paid unto Aaron Searrin, to his heirs or assignees, the following sum of 12 pounds Virginia money on or before the 25th of December 1793. Or the value thereof in North Carolina currency at the general exchange when paid. As witness my hand and seal this 15th day of December 1792. (signed) Michael Nicholson. Test: George Nicholson. (note on back) January 21, 1794, I endorse the within note to George Nicholson for value received of him. (signed ) Elizabeth “X” Shearin. Test: Charles Nicholson. (Note on front) 1797 received of Mr. Lewis Sheppard payment in full of the above bond (signed) Geo. Nicholson

Note: Aaron Shearin was the son of John Shearin (d. 1794) of Warren County. George Nicholson was married to James Paine’s daughter Polly. 

27.   January 24, 1793 (North Carolina Estate Files, Caswell County , Michael Nicholson)
Michael Nicholson account with James Williamson: Jan. 24, 1793 – 41 lbs barr iron, 100 nails. March 15: 100 nails, cutting knife, sugar, cup & plates, fabric. May 2: 1,500 nails, 100 nails, handsaw, broad chisel. May 11: white linen, thread, needles, scissors, printed shawl, three boys hats. (note) Received the above some of 8 pounds 12 shillings and 10 pence from Robert Paine in full of the above amount September 19, 1796. (signed) James Wiliamson.

Note: Observe the large amount of iron and nails purchased…they were doing a great deal of construction during this time.
Note: James Williamson married Susannah Paine (April 9, 1779 – October 23, 1828) “d/o Major Paine of Paines Tavern”

28.   September 24, 1793 (North Carolina Estate Files, Caswell County , Michael Nicholson)
Michael Nicholson account with William Lea. Sept 24, 1793 – sugar; Oct 18 – gallon of rum; Dec 20 – 4 yards cotton; 1794 March – gun lock, ¼ yard black silk; April 21- scissors; June 23 – set of white plates, one dish, one glass; July 21 – one bushel salt, Sept. 28- rum; Oct. 13 – for Mrs. Eastwood sundries; April 24 – sticks ?, rum; May 6 – dollar lent; June 11 – paper, two yards linen, 5 yards oz__bungs, sugar, thread, pepper, rum. June 27 – thread, knitting pins, 2 yards Durant, hank silk, sugar; July 16 – paper pins, fish hooks, rum; July 25 – 2 quarts wine  


29.   1794 (p. 87) Nathan Rice and Sarah his wife of Caswell Co. to Henry Popwatt (?) of Caswell Co., land and plantation on South branches of County Line Creek, 300a. Beginning at blackjack on William Estes corner on Walkers old line thence along line north 58 chains to a  stake on Wadely Tates line, thence  east along Tates line23 chains to post oak on Tates corner, thence north along Tates line15 chains to chestnut, thence east 23 chains to an ash in the branch, thence south 73 chains to white oak in Eakes line, then along Eakes line west 46 chains to first station.

30.   1794 (Deed Book H, p. 354) William Gooch, Sr, to John Payne, Taylor, both of Caswell County for 550 pounds 200 acres of land on waters of Country Line Creek. Beginning at two small post oaks by a path that runs south 18 chains to a red oak William Kimbroughs line, thence with his line [west] 39 chains and 16 links to a pine, thence south with his line 19 chains to a hickory James Rices corner, thence west with his line 35 chains to Spanish oak, thence north 37 chains to white oak bush, thence east with the widow Martins line 74 chains 60 links to the first station. 

31.   1794 (Deed Book H, p. 357). Between William Gooch, Sr. and son Nathaniel Gooch 179 acres of land in Caswell County on waters of South Fork of Country Line Creek. Beginning red oak by the creek and runs thence east 4 chains 50 links to redbud, thence south 45 chains to a post oak, thence west 15 chains to blackjack, thence north 28 chains 50 links to white oak, thence west 7 chains 75 links to ash in the fork of a branch, thence down the branch and crsses the creek 6 chains 50 links to a  hickory on the bank, thence north 75 degrees west 42 chains 50 links to pine in Davis Gooch line, thence with his line north 12 chains 50 links to blackjack his corner, in William Kimbrough line, thence with his line east 54 chains 90 links to black oak by the creek, thence down the creek as it meanders to the first station.

32.   1794 (Deed Book H, pg. 389) Between John Rice and his son Nathaniel Rice 200 acres of land, where he (Nathaniel) now lives being the north side of the tract whereon I (John Rice) now live in Caswell County on the waters of South Fork of Country Line Creek. Beginning at black oak by a path in the original line running thence north along said line bounded for Alexander Kerr 35 chains 49 links to a stake, thence along said line east 58 chains to stake and white oak, thence along said line south 34 chains 49 links to pointers, thence along a new dividing line west to the first station.

33.   April 1794 (Caswell County Court Minutes, Family Search, p 219)
Ordered that Nathaniel Comer, Major Lea, John Lea (Capt.), John Lea (C.B.), Benjamin Stephens, John Dobbin, Thomas Willson, James Willson, Richard Eskridge, Sr., John Johnston, Sr., Andrew Warwick, William McDaniel, Nicholas Delone, Lawrance Vanhook, Thomas Stephens, Isaac Hodge, Samuel Hodge, Joshua Caney, Joseph Swann be appointed a jury to view and lay off road the nearest and best way beginning above Nathaniel Comers on road leading from Col. Adam Sanders to the Rid House from thence by said Comers crossing the creek below M. Nicholsons leaving James Willsons on the north by Samuel Johnstons to a new road lately cut out.

34.   May 8, 1794 (Granville County Court Minutes, Family Search, p 266)
William Shapard vs. James Vaughan. Ordered that the testimony only of Binnone Hancock, Lewis Shapard and Thomas Shapard of the plaintiffs witnesses shall be [allowed] against the defendant for this court – but all the other summoned shall be allowed for every other court.
Note: William Shapard was Lewis’ father. This is the earliest entry discoverd listing Lewis Shapard by name. (Census records show him merely by dash mark).

35.   July 30, 1794 (Caswell County Court Minutes, Family Search, p 231)
In obedience to an order of the worshipfull Court of Caswell ___ a jury appointed to view and lay off a road beginning on the road leading from Col. Adam Sanders to the Rid House. And being met and duly sworn do say that the said road begins at or near where Nathaniel Comers Mill Pathe joins the old road leading as foresaid. Thence by Blazes, south of said Comers to the Ford on Hico [Creek] below Michael Nicholsons. Thence by Blazes, south of James Willsons and north of Samuel Johnstons to Person County line, given under our hands and seals this 18th day of July 1794

Ordered that Nathaniel Comer be appointed overseer to open the new road leading from Col. Adam Sanders to the Rid House to the Ford on Hico below Michael Nicholsons with a the convenient hands to work thereon.

Note: Red House was a tavern and Presbyterian Church that was painted red and located near Semora in north east Caswell County.

Note: Robert Payne held land prior to 1779 on Hico creek. James Wilsons 867 acre plantation was neighbor to the north, John Johnston was to the east and Samuel Hodge was to the west.

Note: A ford is a shallow place in the river where one can walk across. 

36.   August 1, 1794 (North Carolina Estate Files, Caswell County , Michael Nicholson)
Michael Nicholson account with Nicholas Delone: August 1, 1794 – wool cards, 50 nails, iron, handkerchief, 6 plates; Sept -2 yards lining, sugar, rum; Oct. – ½ bushel salt, sugar, one pound of ginger, punch bowl, rum; Nov.- rum, sugar, iron, steel, sack bag, pot; Dec - 50 nails, iron, rum, handkerchief, ½ yard of calico; 1795 January – sugar; March – iron, 100 nails; April – 4 ½ yards calico, buckles, paper pins, handkerchief; May – rum; June 29 – whiskey.

Note: Nicholas Delone (b.c. 1750 d. c. 1808 in SC) Nicholas Delone and William Lea owned much property around Leasburg. In 1788, the town around the courthouse at Leasburg was to be developed and Lea and Delone laid off 100 acres adjacent to the courthouse and 62 lots. As trustees of the town, lots were sold to merchants and workmen as the town grew. In 1790 Nicholas Delone is listed in the Richmond District and William Lea (multiple) is listed in the St. Laurence District. A William Lea of CC sold to Major Wallis 60 acres on N. Hico in 1811. William Lea (1747-Sept. 4, 1806) buried in Leasburg Community Cemetery. Married Caty Van Hook. He made many land purchases at Cobbs Creek at Kilgore’s Branch. Leasburg was named in honor of William Lea.

37.   December 29, 1794 (Warren County, North Carolina, Will Book 8)
Michael Nicholson of Caswell County to James Frame of Warren County, mortgage on a negro to secure a debt of 37 pounds Virginia money to Allen Love of Brunswick Co., Virginia.

38.   1795 (Deed Book K, p. 235). Richard Estes to James Yancy, 175 acres on waters of Country Line Creek. Beginnng at white oak the corner of old survey, thence south 53 Ch 50 L to dogwood on bank of creek, thence down creek as meanders 36 Ch 50 L to redbud on the bank, thence North 40 Ch to red and white oak, thence west to beginning. 

39.   January 26, 1795 (Caswell County Court Minutes, Family Search, p 238)
Ordered that Michael Nicholson be appointed overseer of the road from the Old Road above Nathaniel Comers to the ford of Hico below said Nicholsons plantation with the following hands to work thereon, to wit, John Dobbins, Samuel Hodge, Absolom Roberts, his own hands and Nathaniel Comers after next April Court.

40.   January 26, 1795 (Caswell County Court Minutes, Family Search, p 239)
Ordered that William Haynie be appointed overseer of the road from the ford of Hico below Michael Nicholsons to Person County line with the following hands, to wit, James Willson, Samuel Johnston, John Johnston, Sr., John Johnston, Jr., Abner Willson, Johnston Willis and Richard Eckridge, Sr. & Jr., to work thereon.

41.   April 1795 (Caswell County Court Minutes, Family Search, p 248)
Ordered that the hands of Thomas Wilson, Abner Wilson and William Haynie work on the road where Michael Nicholsons is overseer, and that the hands of Nathaniel Comer continue to work where he is overseer.

42.   April 1795 (Caswell County North Carolina County Tax List)
                St. David District: Lewis Shepherd – no acres, 1 white pole, no black poles

Note: According to the Caswell County Court records, the tax lists were ordered to be received in April of the year (see court records, family search page 246 for 1795). This is the first know record of Lewis Shapard in Caswell County.

43.   July 25 to August 18, 1795 (North Carolina Estate Files, Caswell County , Michael Nicholson)
Michael Nicholson died between July 25 and August 18 based on dates at which goods were purchased. He appears to have been wealthy as referenced by the inventory of his estate of January 1796: 9 negros (Pompy, Tom, Daniel, Sal, Ned, Sunney, Ginney, Jane, Clarisee), 5 horses, 10 head of cattle, 10 sheep, 30 hogs, 8 geese, 8 ducks, 2 pigeons, 40 lbs cotton3 barrels of corn, 2 beds and bedsteads, 1 small bed and bedstead, safe, chest, table, loom, old trunk, cotton wheel, slay and harness, womans saddle, mans saddle, 2 pots, skillet, pane of pothooks, 4 hoes, 5 old hoes, 2 axes, 5 knives & forks, 5 pewter plates, 2 pewter dishes, 3 earthen dishes, 2 butter pots, churn, 2 pails, tub, 6 chairs, 3 reep hooks, 2 flat irons, spice mortar, candle stick and snuffer, colander, hand saw, chisel, tea pot, bible, 3 old books, 2 bread trays, 2 pair of cotton cards, pair of wool cards, gun, 3 quart bottles, old box, bell, pair of saddle bags, 4 spoons, old cask, padlock, scythe and cradle, 4 plow stacks, fodder, part of a stud horse in South Hampton C___ Virginia, 3 small pewter basins, 2 iron wedges, tackle, canister, knife box.   

Note: Martha Nicholson paid for funeral expenses for her husband in 1795, her additional expenses relating to his estate in 1796 were an administration bond, B. Coen before sale, cash paid for taking up a runaway negro, Pullum Williamson as auctioneer, making shoes, 1 side leather paid to midwife for a negro woman…

Note: Pullum Williamson in 1790 lived in Richmond District.

Note: North Carolina Law for 1784 states that the widow, upon her petition, was put in possession of 1/3 of the land her husband owned at the time of his death (“widows dower”), and enough provisions to support her and her minor children for a year. She was to receive a the same portion a child did in the division of the personal property. Slaves were only held by her for her lifetime, after which they returned to her husband’s other heirs. If they had no children then a third of the estate went to the widow absolutely.

Note: Public sale of estate – To raise funds for the support of the widow and children or to convert perishables into cash, it was often necessary to conduct sales of the property under the surveillance of the court. The administrator of the estate must first petition the court for authority to sell specifically selected items. If approved, the court authorizes a public auctioneer and an account is kept of what was sold, to whom and for how much.

44.   July 30, 1795 (Caswell County Court Minutes, Family Search, p 259)
July Court, Thursday July 30, 1795. The State vs. Samuel Paul- in debt, charged and plead not guilty. The following Jury sworn to try the issue…Lewis Shephard…found defendant guilty and fined 50 shillings and costs

William Moore vs. Samuel Henderson – case. The following jury sworn to try the issue, to wit,…Lewis Sheppard.

Note: These are the first records of Lewis Shapard appearing in the Caswell County Court records

45.   August 19, 1795 (North Carolina Estate Files, Caswell County , Michael Nicholson)
Martha Nicholson widow account with Nicholas Delone: August 19, sugar, coffee; Aug. 22 – quart and pint of rum by William Neely; Sept 1 – ½ bushel salt; Nov 19 – ½ bushel salt, comb; Nov. 25 – 12 needles, pair of N. needles; Dec. 27  - 2 yards linen, 2 yards calico, hankerchief; 1796 January 19 – thimble, ¼ yard of cambrick, 6 needles, thread; Feb 6 – sugar, paper pins; Feb 12 – case of knives and forks, one bowl, sugar, pewter basin; April 27 – 1 yard of muslin, paper pins, pair of N. needles; July 1 – reep hook; August 23 – iron; Sept 2 – dollar lent; Sept 16 paid to Thomas Burch; Oct 1 – by Berry Evans; November 17 – paid to Thomas Riggs.

46.   November 16, 1795 (Family Search, North Carolina Estate Files, Caswell County ,John Mallory)
                Account of the sale of estate of John Mallory decd. Lewis Shepperd purchased 5 bushels of wheat for $2.0.6.

Note: 1790 Tax List, John Mallery listed in St. David District. Caswell County deeds C 173; G 5; K 291; K 292: show that John Mallory lived on an acreage that crossed Stony Creek. Neighbors included Joseph Carter, Robert Lackey both of whom purchased items at his estate sale.

47.   1796 - 1808 (A Shapard family History)
                Lewis Shapard served on Jury Duty, etc., from 1796 - 1808

48.   1796 (Caswell County North Carolina County Tax List, 1777-1867, Family History Library, p. 324)
                Richmond District: Lewis Sheppard – no acres, 1 white pole, no black poles

Note: Lewis is not listed in the St. David District in 1796.

49.   January 1796 (Caswell County Will Books 1777 - 1843)
                Inventory of Michael Nicholson by Martha Nicholson administrator.

Note: Michael Nicholson died in July or August of 1795.

50.   January 25, 1796 (Caswell County Court Minutes, Family Search, p 268)
Ordered that the administrator of the estate of Michael Nichols deceased be granted to Martha Nichols relict of said deceased, she having entered into bond with Robert Payne, Esq., of Person County in the sum of £1000 for the faithful performance thereof. Administrator qualified, letters issued here accordingly.

(271) Ordered that Samuel Hodge be appointed overseer of the road from the ford on Hico near the plantation of the widow Nichols to the old Ridge Road above Nathaniel Comers in the room of the late Michael Nichols deceased with the following hands, to wit,  hands of Absolom Roberts, John Dobbin, Thomas Willson, Abner Willson, Berry Evans and the widow Nichols to work thereon.

(272) Inventory of the estate of Michael Nichols deceased was duly returned on oath by the administrator and ordered recorded.
       
51.   February 27, 1796 (Caswell County Will Books 1777 - 1843)
                Sales estate of Michael Nicholson by Martha Nicholson, administrator. Sales to: Martha Nicholson, Thomas Johnston, Capt. Robert Paine, William Rainey; “6 head of sheep run away before the day of sale; 3 barrels corn made use of in the family before day of sale; 40 lbs cotton and 1 chisel lost; about 2000 lbs tobacco not sold; part in a stud horse in Virginia no account of.” 27 Feb. 1796

Note: William Rainey is listed in 1790 as living in the Richmond District. Robert Paine, Esq. listed in St. James District. No listing of Thomas Johnston.

52.   February 27, 1796 (North Carolina Estate Files, Caswell County , Michael Nicholson)
Sale of perishable property of the estate of Michael Nicholson deceased: Martha Nicholson – 8 ducks, 8 geese, 18 small hogs, one sow, one pig, two sows and 11 young pigs, one cow and calf, one red cow and red heifer, one bundle cow and red yearling, one cow and yearling, two white yearlings, 4 sheep, two bay mares. Jordan Paine- one sorrel 3 years old. Robert Paine –one sorrel colt two years old, one black horse. (signed) Martha Nicholson.   
               
53.   July 1796 (Shapard a Family History)
                Martha Nicholson was appointed guardian of her three daughters.

54.   July 23, 1796 (Family Search, North Carolina Estate Files, Caswell County , Michael Nicholson)
                Account of the sale of the estate of Michael Nicholson deceased. Martha Nicholson purchased 8 slaves: Clarissee (negro girl) 20.1.0; Pompey (negro man) 113.5.0; Tom (negro man) 90.10.0; Sal (negro woman) 80.10.0; Ned (negro boy) 60.11.0; Surrey (negro boy) 40.13.0; Jenney (negro girl) 75.5.0; Jane (negro girl) 85.5.0.

Note: In 1800, Lewis is listed as having 8 slaves! Note: Ned was sold to Kimbro in 1815.
                       
Martha also purchased beadsteads, beds, house safe, chistle, table, loom, trunk, cotton wheel, iron pots, skillet, pot hooks, plough, axe, saddle, 5 knives & forks, pewter plates, pewter dishes, churn, pails, washtub, mortar, flat irons, candle stick, snuffon, calendar, hand saw, tea pot, 3 books, cotton card, wool card, 4 spoons, cask, padlock, knife box, iron wedges, etc… 

Note: These items would have assimilated into the house of Lewis Shapard after their marriage.

55.   July 26 1796 (Caswell County Court Minutes, Family Search, p 282)
Ordered that Martha Nicholson be appointed guardian to the orphans of Michael Nicholson deceased, vis: Elizabeth Miller Nicholson, Polley Nicholson, Salley Payne Nicholson. She having entered into bond with Robert Payne security in the sum of $2000 for the faithful performance thereof.

(284) The amount of the sale of the estate of Michael Nicholson deceased was duly returned to the court by the administrator and on motion ordered to be recorded.

56.   Nov. 22, 1796 (Caswell County North Carolina Marriage Bonds 1778-1864)
Robert Dixon married Jenny Brooks and Lewis Shapard was listed as witness.

Note: this was the same date as Lewis’ marriage to Martha Paine. Also Brooks was the maiden name of the wife of lewis’ brother, James Shepard, who married Francis Brookes…relation?

57.   November 22, 1796 (Caswell County Marriage Bonds)   
                Know all men by these presents that we Lewis Sheppard and James Sheppard are held and firmly bound unto Sam’l Ashe Govenor ___ in the just and full sum of five hundred pounds to be paid to the said Samuel Ashe, Esquire and his successors in office and assigns, to which payment is well and truly to be made we bind ourselves our heirs, executors and administrators, jointly and separately and firmly by these presents sealed with our seals and dated this 22nd day of November 1796.
                The condition of the above obligation is such that whereas the above bounden Lewis Sheppard hath obtained a license to be joined in Holy matrimony with Martha Nicholson, if therefore there shall be no lawful impediment why the said Lewis Sheppard should not be joined with Martha Nicholson then the above obligation shall be void otherwise to remain in full effect. Signed sealed etc. in the presence of Alex. Murphey. (signed) Lewis Shapard and James Shapard.

Note: Martha was the daughter of Robert Paine. Robert had much wealth and property. Robert Paine’s father Dr. James Paine originally settled on six pound creek in what is now Warren County, Nc, afterwards, he moved to a large 4000 acre estate about 4 miles south of Roxboro (in St. James District) on Flat River in 1767, and built the first brick house in what became Person County. His sons were John, James, William and Robert. All his sons migrated with him to person county except James who stayed in Warren County. In Person County, they all attended Flat River Primitive Baptist Church. Church records show that in July 1787 Capt. [Robert] Paine” was on a committee to decide on a meeting house. Robert Paine joined the church in July of 1791by baptism. His second wife Aggatha joined by letter in 1792. Robert’s son James Paine is listed as a member in 1813, before moving to Giles County, Tennessee in 1814. Robert and his brother John established “Payne’s Tavern” in 1775 which is located about 4 miles south of Roxboro, and was the location of Person County’s first courthouse from 1791-1793. Capt. Robert Paine (1748-1808) was a Capt. in the Rev. War (listed with title of Capt. Robert Payne in 1785 October Court Minutes), Justice of Caswell County in 1786, State Senator from 1788-1790, Justice of Person County, Court Clerk of Person Co. in 1793, and may have been a silver smith as he apprenticed numerous boys in the trade (1782 court apprenticed to Robert Payne John S. Brown, age 12, and William Taylor ,age 17, to learn sliversmith and blacksmith).


Martha’s Uncle, James Paine Esq. (1746-1808) was very active in Warren County, Nc. Serving as Sheriff, Treasurer, Senator on 1790 and owning 1,500 acres and 12 slaves. He lived just north of Warrenton on the old Paine land on six pound creek. He married Esther Walker. He lived next to Judge George Nicholson (d. 1818) who married his sister Polly Paine. James had a close relationship with Mr. Nicholson, and it appears that he may have been the father of Michael Nicholson, who married Martha Paine.  James Paine’s will lists heirs as, widow Esther, sons James, Thomas, William L. and daughters Eliza (wife of Hasteen Poe), Sarah (wife of Joseph Hardaway), Polly (wife of George Nicholson), Rebecca (wife of Jacob Poe),  Esther (married Lot Hazard) and Lucy (john Bilbo).

Judge George Nicholson (d.1818) had brothers: Chrisman, Robert, Michael, Mary. George first married ___Palmer and then Polly Paine. He had children: Robert, James, George, Mildred, Lemuel, Carolina and Dr. John P. (Note;  Michael is in their line: George’s father was Michael (d. 1777) 

Note: Warren County had another line of Nicholson descended from a distant line of George Nicholson. James Jr. (d. 1764) had children : Archibald, John Rebecca, Urbane, James, Lucy, Davis and Nathaniel. Nathaniel had children: Harris, Brittain, Alanson, Urbane ,Lucy, Polly, Nanacy , John. (Michael does not seem to be in their line as a name)

58.   December 9, 1796 (Family Search, North Carolina Estate Files, Caswell County , Michael Nicholson)
                Received of Lewis Shepard the sum of nine pounds sixteen shillings and one pound ten shillings and three pence it being in full of the above … (signed) William Lea
(Wm Lea account of Michael Nicholson from Sept 24, 1793-July 25, 1795 for cotton, knife, silk, scissors, plates, sundries, sugar, coffee, paper, quill, handkerchief, fish hooks, wine…)

59.   1796 (?) (Family Search, North Carolina Estate Files, Caswell County , Michael Nicholson)
                Received of Lewis Shapard amount in full of Michael Nicholson for the year 1795.

60.   1797 (Caswell County North Carolina County Tax List, 1777-1867, Family History Library, p. 351)
Lewis Sheppard is listed in Richmond District with 365 acres, one white pole and seven slaves.

61.   1797 (Deed Book K, p. 187). James Rice to Joesph Chandler, Sr., 474 acres of land on branch of South Fork of Country Line Creek. Beginning at pine S 80 Ch to white oak, thence East 43 Ch 50 L to post oak, thence North 25 Ch to two blackjacks, thence east by Goochs claim of land 23 Ch to a hickory, thence North by Goochs and Kimbroughs claim of land 55 Ch to black oak and hickory, thence West by vacant land 66 Ch 50 L to beginning.

62.   1797 (Family Search, North Carolina Estate Files, Caswell County , Michael Nicholson)
                1797 received of Mr. Lewis Sheppard payment in full of the above bond – Geo. Nicholson.
(amount was for 12 pounds Virginia or north Carolina currency owed from Michael Nicholson debt from 1793)

63.   January 1797 (Caswell County Court Minutes, Family Search, p 307)
Robert Bruce vs. Forbis Haralson. Lease. The following jury sworn, to wit, Thomas Jefferies, William Lea, George Barker, James Currie, John Buchanan, John Dennis, William P. Swift, Lewis Sheppard, Elisha Rowark, William Brooks, John Penia and Lawrance Lea who find the defendant guilty.

Ordered That Ambrose Arnols be appointed constable in Richmond District, he having entered into bond with William Lea and Lewis Sheppard securities in the sum of two hundred and fifty pounds for faithful performance.

64.   January 1797 (Caswell County Court Minutes, Family Search, p 308)
Ann Greer vs. Elisha Rowark. Lease. The following jury sworn, to wit, Thomas Jefferies, William Lea, George Barker, James Currie, John Buchanan, James Yancey, William P. Swift, Robert Kimbrough, Lewis Sheppard, William Brooks, John Penia, Samuel Henderson who find for the defendant.

65.   January 24, 1797 (Family Search, North Carolina Estate Files, Caswell County , Michael Nicholson)
                Received of Lewis Shepperd four pounds nineteen shillings five pence ¼ in full of the within amount by me – (signed) Nicholas Coile & James Lea
(from account of Michael Nicholson of January 8, 1795 for blacksmith work, sundry articles…some of the debt had been paid down with 4 bushels of corn)

66.   January 26, 1797 (Family Search, North Carolina Estate Files, Caswell County , Michael Nicholson)
                Received of Lewis Shepard in full of an ___ Hugh Dobson on the account of Michael Nicholson deceased the sum of $40.0.8 3/6 also on Thomas Johnston $18.8.0 and interest 10 shillings of Virginia money was paid by his wife. (signature)

67.   April 1797 (Caswell County Court Minutes, Family Search, p 313)
Ordered that Lewis Sheppard be appointed overseer of the road in the room of Samuel Hodge with the following hands, to work thereon, Thomas Wilson, Absolom Roberts, John Dobbin, Abner Willson, Isaac Hodge, Benjamin Stephens, William Stephens, Christophers Damerons hands and all in the bounds of said overseer who is liable to work on road.

Note: See entry of January 25, 1796…Lewis is appointed to same area Michael Nicholson was overseer. They both must have resided on Robert Paynes land.. 

68.   May 20, 1797 (Family Search, North Carolina Estate Files, Caswell County , Michael Nicholson)
                Then received of Lewis Shepard admins. of Michael Nicholson decd. The sum of  three pounds five shillings and nine pence it being in full of a judgment John Stafford against Shepard, I say resolved by me – Williamson.

Note: 1790 tax list, John Stafford in Richmond District.

69.   July 1797 (Caswell County Court Minutes, Family Search, p 326)
Ordered that Lewis Sheppard be appointed overseer of the road from Samuel Johnstons field to Gravses road that leads from the Rid house to the south fork of Country Line Creek, that he clear away across Reedy Fork Creek at a convenient place above the old ford, if the proprietors of the land is willing with Thomas Willson, John Dobbin, Abner Willson, Samuel Hodge, Isaac Hodge, Benjamin Stephens, William Stephens, David Hodge, Christopher Dameron, James Willson (Hico) and Samuel Johnston to work thereon.

70.   July 14, 1797 (Family Search, North Carolina Estate Files, Caswell County , Michael Nicholson)
                This day received of Lewis Sheppard in full the within amount received paid me – Thos. Johnston. (Michael Nicholson debt)

71.   August 30, 1797 (Caswell County North Carolina Marriage Bonds 1778-1864)
                Lewis’ brother, James Shapard married Frances Brooks – Alex Murphy and Anne Smith were witnesses.

Note: Martha Paines sister Sarah was married to Francis Brooks brother William Bird Brooks in 1796. They would have introduced James to his future wife. Sarah (Paine) Brooks is buried in the Brooks Cemetery in Giles County, Tennessee, southeast of Pulaski. Headstone reads, “Sarah Brooks consort of Wm. B. Brooks born Feb 5, 1778 died July __ 1835.” Many of the Paine family moved to Giles County.

Note: Francis Brooks’ father is Richard Brooks (c. 1730 – 1789) appears to have migrated from Gloucester, Virginia to Caswell County in 1784. In 1788, he bought 420 acres in Caswell County from George Baker (deed book E, p. 300). Richard is listed on the 1790 tax list for St. Davids District. Another tract of 274 acres was sold by his widow Ann and son W.B. Brooks in 1802 (deed book M. 306). William Bird Brooks married Sarah Paine in Person County and migrated to Giles County, TN. (This was Martha Paines sister. She and William migrated with James Paine and Edmund Shelton (wife Polly Paine) to Giles Co. TN. William Bird Brooks married Sarah Paine on February 2, 1796 in Person Co., John Paine was witness. William Bird Brooks b. 1774.

William B. Brooks was listed on Caswell County 1810 census: 1 m 26-15, 2m under 10, 2m 10-16, 4 f under 10, 1f 10-16, 1 f 26-45. 13 slaves. Thus he did not leave for Tennessee until after 1810. He is on Giles Co. TN tax list in 1812.

Children of James and Francis: Elizabeth (1801- June 20, 1872) m. Stephen Page (Sept. 18, 1802-March 26, 1893). They married in Caswell Co., on January 11, 1832. (both buried in Brush Arbor Primitive Baptist Church Cemetery in Jerico, Caswell County) He was a farmer owned 1,200 acres in 1850. Elizabeth was illiterate. In 1850, her mother Frances was living at their house. Their children: Permilia Frances, James Bently, Bedford Jackson, William W., Elizabeth S.

72.   October 1797 (Caswell County Court Minutes, Family Search, p 330)
A deed from John Rice to Lewis Shepard for four hundred acres of land was duly proved in open court by the oath of William Gooch on of the subscribing witnesses and on motion ordered to be registered.

73.   October 4, 1797 (Caswell County Deed Book K, p. 109).
Between John Rice and Lewis Shapard both of Caswell County for 231.6.8 (pounds) 400 acres of land on the waters of South Fork of Country Line Creek. Beginning at a white oak James Rice old corner running with his line thence north 83 chains 40 links to pine, thence west 53 chains 50 links by vacant land to post oak, thence south 59 degrees east 16 chains to dogwood his corner on the bank of Dry Fork, thence down the said fork as it meanders to poplar on the bank of said fork, thence south 4 chains 50 links to a post Estes corner, thence his line east 31 chains 20 links crossing Dry Fork to the first station.

Note: Lewis Shapard held land on the boarder of St. David’s District and Gloucester District in Caswell County. From Land records it appears that the dividing line was a road: present-day Badgett Sisters Parkway to Oak View Loop Road to Highway 62 through Jericho and Anderson.
Names, dates  and districts:
James Rice – Gloucester Dist. 1777, 1786
Richard Martin - Gloucester Dist. 1786, 1790
William Gooch - Gloucester Dist. 1786
Samuel Kelley – Gloucester Dist. 1777, 1786
William Jones - Gloucester Dist. 1777, 1786, 1790
David Gooch - Gloucester Dist. 1790
Note: in 1803 tax records George Stovall and Joseph Chandler are both listed in the Gloucester District (neighbors to east of Lewis Shapard. 1804 George is in St. David)

William Slade - St. David 1786
Leonard Brown - St. David 1777, 1786
William Rice - St. David 1777, 1786
John Rice - St. David 1790 (there were two John Rices 1786: JR Sr. 640 a 3 slave; JR 500 a no slave. 1796 JR Sr. 440 a 2 slave; JR (SM) 400 a no slave.
Richard Estes - St. David 1786
Alexander Kerr - St. David 1777, 1786

74.   November 5, 1797 (Shapard a Family History)
                William Booker Shapard was born in Caswell County, North Carolina. Son of Lewis and Martha

75.   December 4, 1797 (Person County, Marriage Records)
                John Moore married Mary Archer Oglesby on December 4, 1797. Lewis Shapard and B. Douglas were witnesses/bondsmen.

76.   1798 (Caswell County North Carolina County Tax List, 1777-1867, Family History Library, p. 369)
Lewis Shepperd is listed in the Richmond District with 765 acres, one white pole and 6 black poles.

Note: The 765 acres accounts for his 365 acres in the Richmond District (he leased the land of the late Michael Nicholson, from Robert Paine) and the 400 acres in St. David’s District bought of John Rice. By this account it appears that his residence in 1798 was in Richmond District.        

Note: “James Shepard” is listed in the St. David District in 1798 with no acres, one white pole and one black pole and 2 ¾ stud horses (see Tax List for St. David District Caswell County page 378). Anderson Williams was in St. Davids District with 1 white pole and 3 black ploes, no land and no stud horses.

77.   1798 (Deed Book K, p. 209).
Between Luke Pendergrast and William Haney both of Caswell County for 25 pounds 100 acres of land on the waters of County Line Creek. Beginning at old blackjack in line of William Jones and running thence south 40 chains partly on the line of Clifton Allen to dogwood on the line of said Allen, thence west 25 chains to red oak sapling, thence north 40 chains to post oak in the line of William Jones, thence east on his line 25 chains to the beginning.

78.   1798 (Deed Book K, p. 259)
Luke Pendergrast to William F. Booker 300 acres of land lying and being in Caswell County on the waters of South Country Line Creek. Beginning at dogwood Heanys corner in the line of Clifton Allen, thence west  5 chains to red oak sapling Heaneys corner, thence north 40 chains to post oak in the line of William Jones, Heaneys corner, thence west 21 chains to stake, thence south with Rices line 33 chains to black oak, thence east with Browns line 9chains and 50 links to stake, then south his line 30 chains 50 links to blackjack, then east54 chains 50 links to blackjack, thence north Anstons line 16 chains 50 links to black oak, then east with his line 5 chains to a blackjack, thence north to the first station.  

79.   January 16, 1798 (Family Search, North Carolina Estate Files, Caswell County , John Rice, p. 338, #574)
                Account of sales of the estate of John Rice late of Caswell County decd.
James Shepperd purchased a pewter dish for 0.16.0; Lewis Shepperd purchased one small dish for 0.7.0; Lewis shepperd purchased one small bason for 1.6.0; Lewis Shepperd purchased one fork & ladle for 0.11.6; James Shepperd purchased one dutch oven for 0.5.0; Lewis Shepperd purchased one butter pot for 0.10.6; James Shepperd purchased one pepper box and grater for 0.2.0; James Shepperd purchased one flax wheel; Lewis Shepperd purchased water pail for 0.8.0 and another for 0.4.0; Booker Shepperd purchased one claw hammer for 0.4.0; James Shepperd purchased one wagon for 16.0.0; James Shepperd purchased one scythe blade for 0.7.0; James Shepperd purchased one stock lock for 0.2.6; (Sales made by Lewis Sheppard, Booker Sheppard, James Sheppard, Anderson Williams (spoon, basin, butter pot, barrel, plow, churn), Anne Brooks…William Kimbrough, Booker Sheppard, james yancy, William B. Brooks (feather bed…)

80.   January 26, 1798 (Caswell County Court Minutes, Family Search, p 342)
Ordered. On petition filed, that the road leading from Person County Line near Samuel Johnstons plantation, crossing North Hico at Robert Paines plantation, thence across the Reedy Fork near Nathaniel Comers and into Graves Road be and the same is discontinued and __ to all interests and purposes as if such road had never been ordered.

Note: see October 1798, appears road was reestablished.

81.   March 10, 1798 (Family Search, North Carolina Estate Files, Caswell County , Michael Nicholson)
                Received of Lewis Shapard in full of the within amount by me – Samuel Neeley. (Michael Nicholson debt)

                Note: 1790 Tax list, Samuel Neely in St. James District.

82.   April 1798 (Caswell County Court Minutes, Family Search, p 347)
Ordered that Gabriel Lea, Archibald Murphy and Samuel Johnston be appointed commissioners to settle the amounts of Lewis Sheppard administer in right of his wife with the estate of Michael Nicholson deceased and report their proceedings to the next court.

83.   July 1798 (Caswell County Court Minutes, Family Search, p 355)
Ordered that the sheriff summon the following persons to attend our next as jurors, to wit, St. Davids District…James Shapard, William Brooks…

84.   July 1798 (Caswell County Court Minutes, Family Search, p 358)
James Colgahoon vs. John Price. Debt. The following jury sworn, to wit, …Lewis Shepard

85.   July 1798 (Caswell County Court Minutes, Family Search, p 359)
Ordered that Gabriel Lea, Archibald Murphy and Samuel Johnston be appointed commissioners to audit and settle the amounts of Lewis Shepard administrator in right of his wife of Michael Nicholson deceased and report thereon to our next court.

86.   October 1798 (Caswell County Court Minutes, Family Search, p 366)
Ordered that Samuel Johnston esq., be appointed overseer of the road from Person County Line to Stephens road across Hico and reedy Fork to be worked by the hands of William Goodon, John Doblin, Nathaniel Comers and the hands at Captain Robert Paynes quarter.

Note: This is same area that Michael Nicholson and Lewis Shapard were overseer.

87.   October 1798 (Caswell County Court Minutes, Family Search, p 365)
Ordered that the following persons be appointed a jury to view the road from a branch that crosses said road between Thomas Johnstons and Robert Shyes to the old Caswell Road, to wit, Nathan Williams, Henry Davis, Lewis Sheppard, John Widdin, Thomas Simmons, William Brown, Bartlett Estridge, Robert Shy__, Robert Thompson, Thomas Kindrick, John ___, David Henslee, Henry Williams and John Henslee and report to our next court.

88.   October 1798 (Caswell County Court Minutes, Family Search, p 368)
Ordered that Samuel Johnston, Gabriel Lea, Thomas Jefferies, William Rainey and Col. Adam Sanders or any three of them be appointed commissioners to audit and settle the accounts between Lewis Shephard in right of his wife, guardian for the orphans of Michael Nicholson deceased and ___ amount of the estate of the said deceased and report to our next court.

89.   October 1798 (Caswell County Court Minutes, Family Search, p 370)
No. 33. Jesse Carter vs. Lewis Shaphard. Case. (jury list)…who find a verdict for plaintiff for £46.5.2 and costs.

Note: Jesse Carter was a very wealthy store owner of Caswell County. He was one of the first to own land at Caswell Court House. He owned land on Reedy Fork, Rattlesnake Creek, Country Line Creek and land in Virginia. In 1801 he was a Caswell County Justice. In 1802 he was one of the initial trustees of the Caswell Academy (school established at the courthouse). He died in Caswell Co. in 1815. He married Nancy Payne in 1793 and married her sister Elizabeth Payne in 1804. It does not appear that these Paynes were directly related to Martha Paine.

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