Updated February 2, 2026
Background
Essex County was named for the English county. It was formed from Old Rappahannock County in 1692. The county seat is Tappahannock.
[Old Rappahannock County was formed in 1656 from Lancaster County. It became extinct in 1692 when it was divided in into Essex and Richmond Counties. Information on the GILLIAMs of Old Rappahannock County may be found on both the Essex and Richmond County GILLIAM pages.]
Parishes
Saint Anne's Parish, 1704
Saint George's Parish, 1714-1720
Saint Mary's Parish, 1692-1713
Sittenburne Parish, 1692-1732
South Farnham Parish, 1692
Overview
The GILLIAMs of Essex County prove to be confusing. It appears that a Richard GILLIAM marries the widow Ann Ayres the daughter of Anthony Smith of Middlesex County, VA and has a son, Richard who is mentioned in Ann's Will. After Richard Gilliam, Sr's death Ann marries thirdly David Lewis and then fourthly David Barwick/Berwick. It should be noted that a Robert Gilliam served in the Militia in Essex with a David Berwick in 1687.
On 16 Nov 1725 Ann makes an oath stating that David Berwick died without a Will. Ann is then appointed the administratrix of his estate. Ann, as Ann Barwick, she writes a Will dated 18 Jul 1732, mentioning her several children from her several marriages, including her "well loved son," Richard Gwilliam who receives one pound sterling. It is this Richard who appears to have married Mary Suggett and settled in neighboring Richmond County. He had a son named Edgecomb Guilliams. This family eventually removes to Franklin County, VA.
It appears Richard Gilliam, Sr., may have been married prior to his marriage to Ann, for a William Gilliam in 1742 writes a Will mentioning wife, Elizabeth, and a son, Richard. [If not a son, surely a close relative.] Tradition gives William's wife as Elizabeth Boulware. Several men named Boulware may be found in the election polls with William. It also appears that William had a son named William in addition to the Richard mentioned in his Will, for a William, "son of William deceased" is bound out to John Carroll in 1756.
This William, Jr, according to a Power of Attorney removes to Kentucky by 1791 with his son Stark Gilliam
Court Orders
23 Nov 1687
The following men are to provide a man, horse and armes:
Among those listed is Robert GILLAM and David Barwick
Essex County, VA, Order Book, 2, 1680-1694, page ___.
11th of May 1700
ANN SMITH, Admrx. of Capt. ANTHO: SMITH, being dead, ye Peticon of WM. AYRES & ANN his Wife, Eldest Daughter of ye sd Capt. ANTHO: SMITH, Admcon. de bonis non administratris is granted to her on ye sd Estate haveing given security according to Law
Essex County, Virginia Order Book, 1699-1702, Page 45, [Antient Press];
Abt 10 Jun 1710
Thomas Lay brings suit agt Richard Gwilliam for eight hundred pounds ____ to be paid _______________________ therefore ordered by ye Court ye the said deft pay to ye pltf aforesaid quantity of like tobo in ______ with Costs
Order Book 4, Part 1 & 2, 1708-1714, Essex County, page 250 [pages 173-247 missing]
Court Order
10 Jul 1710 • Essex County, VA
Richard Gwillam & wife Ann vs. James Boughon & Mary dismissed,
Essex County, VA, Order Book 4, page 271
10 Oct 1710
To the bill in chancery presented by Richard Guilliam & Ann his wife agt James Boughan and Mary Webster wife of John Webster decd the sd James Boughan one of the dfts just answer on oath whereof to have time to consider
Order Book 4, Part 1 & 2, 1708-1714, Essex County, VA, page 288
9 Mar 1710/11
In ye Suit in Chancery between Richard Guillan & Ann his wife pltf
vs
James Boughan, Mary Webster of John Webster deced deft
Richard being one of the deft being dead the surviving pltf Ann ____ and put in a reply to the defts answer the sd def on motion hath time to rejoyn
Order Book 4, Part 1 & 2, 1708-1714, Essex County, VA page 306
15 Aug 1712
Ann Guillam making oath that She attended this Court nine Days in Evidence on the behalf of James Boughan the younger agst James Bougham the elder it is therefore considered by the Court that the said James Bougham the younger pay her for the same according to law
Order Book 4, Part 1 & 2, 1708-1714, Essex County, VA, page 473
1716
In 1716 Thomas Coleman purchased 542 acres in Essex County adjoining GILLIAM's Swamp from James Boughan.
Essex County, VA, Order Book ___, page ___.
18 Feb 1723
The last will & testament of John Shepard deced being present in court by Jane Shepard his Executrix. Its ordered ye Sherif summon David Barrick & Ann Barrick Witnesses to the sd Will to appear at next Court in order to prove the same.
Essex County, VA, Order Book, 1723-1725, page ___.
15 Jun 1725
Ann Berwick formerly Ann Lewis relict of David Lewis decd come into Court & made oath that ye to David Lewis departed this life without making any will so far as she knows or believes and on motion & giving security for her just faithful admon of ye sd decedent’s Estate. Certificate is granted her for obtaining Letters of admon in due form. Ann Berwick with Thomas Evett, William Smith acknowledge their bond for ye sd Ann's faithful adm of ye Estate of David Lewis deced is ordered to be recorded
Order Book 6, 1723-1725, Essex County, Virginia: page 299
17 Aug 1725
Ann Berwick with Thomas Evett & William Smith acknowledged their Bond for ye sd Ann’s faithful admon. Of ye estate of Davis Lewis deced which is ordered to be recorded.
Essex County, VA, Order Book, 1723-1725, page ___.
16 Nov 1725
Ann Berwick relict of David Berwick made oath that the said David departed this life without making nay will so farr [sic] as she knows or believes and on her motion & giving security for her just & faithful adminon of sd decendents estate. Certificate is granted her for obtaining letters of Admincon in due form
Ann Berwick, John Griggs & Thomas Crittenden acknowd their bond for the sd Ann’s Admon of David Berwick’s estate wch is ordered to be recorded
It is ordered that Henry Reeves, William Greenhilll, Spilsbee Coleman, James Griffin or any three of them (being first sworn before a Justice of the peace for this County) do appraise the estate of David Berwick deced & return their proceedings therein to next court.
Essex County, VA, Order Book, 1723-1725, page ___.
DATE
It is ordered that Benjamin Winslow Gent do pay unto Richard Gilliam and William Yarrington five Shillings Current money out of the County money in his hands it being allowed them for Garding against the fire at Bowler’s Warehouse
Order Book 12 1740-1741, Essex County, Virginia, page 136
15 Nov 1743
The Last Will and Testament of William Gilliam dec’ed was presented in Court by Elizabeth Gilliam the Executrix therein named who made Oath thereto and being also proved by the Oath of Samuel Hopkins Gent and Bartholomew Clark was admitted to Record and on the motion of the said Elizabeth a Certificate is granted her for obtaining a probate thereof in due form
Order Book 13, 1742-1743, Essex County, Virginia, p287
20 Dec 1743
An Inventory of the Estate of William Gilliam deced being returned is ordered to be recorded
Order Book 1742-1743, Essex County, Virginia, page __
20 Jun 1749
Sam a Negro Boy belonging to Elizabeth Gilliam is by the Court adjudged to Twelve years of age
Order Book 15, 1747-1749, Essex County, Virginia, page 332
20 Jan 1756
At a Court held at Tappa this 20th day of Jany 1756
This Indenture made the 20th Jany in the year of our Lord Christ One Thousand Seven Hundred and fifty Six Witnesseth that the worshipfull Court of Essex do put and bind unto James Carrell one boy named William Gillam Lawfull son to the deceas’d William Gillam of the Sd County Seventeen years of age by gone the tenth of September last past to serve the sd James Carrell until he attain to the age of twenty one years during which term the Sd prentice Shall his sd Master Serve and all his Lawful Commands obey and his Secrets keep during the Term of his Indenture and in Consideration of the Sd James Carroll doth bind himself to do his best Endeavor to teach his Apprentice the stand Mystery of Taylor to the best of his Knowledge and his practice Capacity Likewise to find the Sd Apprentice sufficient meat, drink, Washing, lodging and cloathing and do my best Endeavour to instruct him the true Christian Religion as also at the Expiration of his servitude His freedom Dues To the performing of this Indenture both parties have hereunto set their hands and Seals day and date above Written
James Carroll
William Gilliam
At a Court held for Essex County at Tappa the 20th Day of Feby 1756
This Indenture was acknowledged by the parties hereto & ordered to be Recorded etc truly Recorded
Test John Lee Junr Clk
Order Book 21, 1754-1757, Essex County, Virginia, page 186-187
19 Jan 1756
Indenture between James Carroll and William Gilliam were acknowledged and ordered to be Recorded
Order Book 21, 1754-1757, Essex County, Virginia, page 169
20 Apr 1756
Susannah Clark
against
William Gilliam
came the parties by their attorney and the Court on hearing the arguments of both the said parties are of opinion that the sd Complainant ought to have & proceeded at Common Law, and do therefore order that the sd Complt be dismt
Order Book 21, 1754-1757, Essex County, Virginia, page 221
18 May 1761
Ordered that William Gilliam be Summoned to appear at next Court to shew cause why Margaret Cope an Orphan of William Cope should not be removed from him and Bound to some other person
Order Book 23, 1759-1761, Essex County, Virginia, page 248
15 Jun 1761
On hearing the Complaint of Thomas Rollins on the behalf of Margaret Cope orphan of William Cope Dec'd against William Gilliam the same is dismist
Order Book 23, 1759-1761, Essex County, Virginia: page 292
15 Jun 1761
Ordered that William Gilliam pay unto James Martin Twenty five pounds of Nett Tobacco for attending this Court one day as a Witness for him at the Complaint of Thomas Rollins
Order Book 23, 1759-1761, Essex County, Virginia: page 292
15 Jun 1761
Ordered that William Gilliam pay unto Thomas Short Twenty five pounds of Nett Tobaco for attending this Court on day as a witness for him the complaint of Thomas Rollins ,
Order Book 23, 1759-1761, Essex County, Virginia: page 292
16 Sep 1765
On the motion of William Gillam it is ordered that his Tithables be added to the List taken by Francis Waring gent
Order Book 26, 1764-1767, Essex County, Virginia, page 243
22 Mar 1769
Ordered That James Martin do pay unto William Gilliam Seventy five pounds of Tobacco for attending this Court three days as a witness for him against George Turner and Major Lasson .
Order Book 27, 1767-1770, Essex County, Virginia, page 212
Jul 1779
William Gilliam against James Samuel
The Plaintiff having file his declaration
Order Book 29, 1773-1783, Essex County, Virginia, page 422
17 Aug 1784
Henry Garnett Survivor of Henry Garnett and Augustine Garnett against William Gilliam Deft Richard Well deputy sheriff released for not taking common bail on this suit by plaintiff note
Order Book 30, 1784-1787, Essex County, Virginia: p210
20 Nov 1786
An Indictment being presented to the Grand Jury to wit Essex to wit
The Jurors of the Commonwealth impannelled sworn and charged to enquire for the Commonwealth, and for the body of the County aforesaid upon their oath do say that Berriman Brown being a Constable of the said County at the parish of St Anne, lawfully appointed and authorized to exercise that Office, by virtue of a certain writ of fiere facias directed to him by Harry Garnett, a Justice of Peace for the County aforesaid had lawfully seized into his hands, a certain Horse gelding, the property of a certain William Gilliam of the Parish said County aforesaid, to satisfy a debt whereof the William Gilliam was convict, before the said Harry Garnett, due to one John Noel bearing date the thirtieth day of August in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and eighty six, he the said William Gilliam on the thirty first day of August in the year aforesaid at the Parish and County aforesaid maliciously a stable part of the Curtilage of him the said Berriman Brown (being a Constable aforesaid) with force and arms did Break and enter, and the said Horse gelding so seized (the said debt still remaining unpaid) did forcibly take and carry away and the life of him the said Berriman Brown did then and there threaten against the peace & dignity of the Commonwealth and no proof appearing to prove the same the said Grand Jury say they know nothing of it.
Order Book 30, 1784-1787, Essex County, Virginia: p267-268
26 Mar 1791
Ordered that Henry Garnett survivor of Henry Garnett and Augustine Garner pay Richard Gouldman Two hundred pounds of Tobacco for attending this Court eight days as a witness for him against William Gilliam
Order Book 32, 1790-1794, Essex County, Virginia, page 22
26 Mar 1791
Ordered that Henry Garnet survivor of Henry Garnett and Augustine Garnett pay Frederick Clark Two hundred and seventy five pounds of Tobaco for attending this Court eleven days as a witness for him against William Gilliam
Order Book 32, 1790-1794, Essex County, Virginia, page 226
18 May 1791
Henry Garnett survivor of Henry Garnet and Augustine Garnet against –
Defendant Covenant
William Gilliam
came the parties aforesaid by their attorney and on the motion of the Defendant the office Judgment is set aside and the Defendant defend the force and injury upon and so forth and saith that he hath well and truly performed the covenants alledged by the said plaintiff in his declaration to have been broken and of this ____ himself upon the County and the plaintiff with likewise the same therefore the help of commanded to summon a Jury of twelve good and lawful men by whom the truth may be better known and who are not of kin to the plaintiff or Defendant because both plaintiff and Defendant have put themselves upon the County
Order Book 32, 1790-1794, Essex County, Virginia: Essex. Court Orders 1790–1794, page 34
18 May 1791
Present Geo. W Smith Gent
Henry Garnett survivor of Henry Garnett and Augustine Garnett, pltff
against In Covenant
William Gilliam Defendant
Came the parties aforesaid by their attornies and thereupon a Jury to wit Archibald McCall, foreman, Thomas Ward Ennis, James Dyke, Henry H Clement James [?], Peter Ford, James Younger, Obediah Boulware, James Bray, Ambrose Blackburn, Wm Dunn,Thomas Dobbins who being elected, impanneled and sworn are all and truly by the matter in Issue joined upon their oaths do say that the Defendant has not performed, the Covenants alledged in the Declaration
Order Book 32, 1790-1794, Essex County, Virginia: page 36-37
18 May 1791
ordered that Henry Garnet survivor of Henry Garnett and Augustine Garnett pay Frederick Clark twenty five pounds of Tobo for attending here three days as witness for him against William Gilliam
Order Book 32, 1790-1794, Essex County, Virginia, page 37
18 May 1791
ordered that Henry Garnet survivor of Henry Garnett and Augustine Garnett pay Richard Goldman Seventy five pounds of Tobo for attending here for him against William Gilliam
Order Book 32, 1790-1794, Essex County, Virginia, page 37
23 May 1792
Robert Baylor Plaintiff
against
William Gilliam This suit is discontinued .
Order Book 32, 1790-1794, Essex County, Virginia, page 141
Deeds
Deed: Ann Barwick to Pittman Scandrett
7 Mar 1729
THIS INDENTURE made the seaventh day of March in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred & Twenty nine Between ANN BARWICK of the Parish of Southfarnham in the County of Essex Widw. of one part and PITTMAN SCANDRETT of the same Parish and County Mercht. of other part Witnesseth that the sd ANN BARWICK for the sum of Sixteen pounds, Nineteen shillings and Two pence hath sold unto sd PITTMAN SCANDRETT his heirs and assigns forever for & dureing the Natural! life of the sd ANN BARWICK her thirds or right of dower of two hundred acres of land being the Plantation whereon she now lives being in the Parish & County aforesd and is part of a tract of land sold by JOHN GRIFFING late of the aforesd County to WILLIAM AYRES by Deed dated the Tenth day of December 1696 To Have and To Hold the sd third part or right of Dower of the said Two hundred acres of land unto the sd PITTMAN SCANDRETT his heirs and assigns for & dureing the life of the sd ANN BARWICK. In Witness whereof the sd ANN BARWICK hath hereunto set her hand and Seal
in presence of PT. GODFREY, ANN BERRICK
JAS. ALDERSON, BEN JA. WINSLOW
At a Court continued and held for Essex County on the XVIIIth day of March MDCCXXIX ANN BERRICK acknowledged this her Deed to PITTMAN SCANDRETT which on his motion is admitted to record
Memorandum That on the Eighteenth day of March in the year 1729 livry and Seisen of the within land was given to PITTMAN SCANDRETT by ANN BERWICK in presence of ELIZABETH GAMES, ELIZABETH FOGGE, ELIZABETH PARSONS
At a Court continued & held for Essex County the XVIIIth day of March MDCCXXIX
This Livery & Seisen was acknowledged by ANN BERRICK to PITTMAN SCANDRETT and is admitted to record
Essex County, Virginia, Deed Book 19, 1728-1733, Page 97-98 [Antient Press]
20 Nov 1741
True and exact poll of the Election of burgesses, Essex County, November 20, 1741
Wm Gilham
Essex County Deed Book 1738 - 1942, page 310, From William and Mary College Quarterly Vol 22 page 5, 2 series
20 Jan 1756
At a Court held at Tappa this 20th day of Jany 1756
This Indenture made the 20th Jany in the year of our Lord Christ One Thousand Seven Hundred and fifty Six Witnesseth that the worshipfull Court of Essex do put and bind unto James Carrell one boy named William Gillam Lawfull son to the deceas’d William Gillam of the Sd County Seventeen years of age by gone the tenth of September last past to serve the sd James Carrell until he attain to the age of twenty one years during which term the Sd prentice Shall his sd Master Serve and all his Lawful Commands obey and his Secrets keep during the Term of his Indenture and in Consideration of the Sd James Carroll doth bind himself to do his best Endeavor to teach his Apprentice the stand Mystery of Taylor to the best of his Knowledge and his practice Capacity Likewise to find the Sd Apprentice sufficient meat, drink, Washing, lodging and cloathing and do my best Endeavour to instruct him the true Christian Religion as also at the Expiration of his servitude His freedom Dues To the performing of this Indenture both parties have hereunto set their hands and Seals day and date above Written
James Carroll
William Gilliam
At a Court held for Essex County at Tappa the 20th Day of Feby 1756
This Indenture was acknowledged by the parties hereto & ordered to be Recorded etc truly Recorded
Test John Lee Junr Clk
Deed Book 27, 1754-1757, Essex County, Virginia, page, page 186-188
A Poll of the Freeholders at an Election of Burgesses in Essex County taken by me Thomas Bowler for William Covington Gent Sheriff of the said County this 6th Day of May 1761
William Gilham
Deed Book 29, 1761-1765, Essex County, Virginia, page 1
17 Sep 1787
William Gilliam 18 0.9.00
Collected by Morrison [Merriday?] Brown
At a Court held for Essex County at Tappahannock on the 17th day of Sepr 1787. Merriday Brown Deputy Sheriff of this County returned and made oath to this list of taxes received by him since last Court which is ordered to be recorded
Deed Book 33, 1786-1793, Essex County, Virginia, page 83
20 Jun 1791
To all whom these present may _____ know that I Henry Garnett of the County of Essex, Parish of Saint Anne and State of Virginia, trusting to the assidenty, fidelity and provident Circumspection of my worthy friend Mr Thomas Gist a resident of Kentuckey I do by these presents constitute, ordain and appoint him the said Thomas Gist my true legal and lawful Attorney within the District of Kentuckey aforesaid for the special purposes hereafter mentioned:
Whereas there was a Judgment obtained by me in the Court of the said County of Essex, by the name and style of Henry Garnett Survivor of Henry Garnett and Augustine Garnett against a certain William Gilliam living in and residing within the said District of Kentuckey for fifty three pounds Damages and twelve hundred and sixty two pounds of Tobacco to be levied at one penny half penny to pound except Two hundred pounds of said Tobacco which is to be levied at one penny farthing & pound, and fifteen Shillings or one hundred and fifty pounds of Tobacco and one shilling and six pence (which said Judgt was obtained the 18th day of May in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and ninety one where upon in consequence and by Virtue of the Judgment aforesaid I have sued out Execution thereupon which said Execution I have put into the hands of the said Thomas Gist to be conveyed into the hands of a proper officer within the said District to be carried into effect and I do further by these presents impower and vest the said Thomas Gist with the sole management of the said execution that is to say, to pursue all legal and possible steps for the recovery of the said sum of money and Tobacco aforesaid as I might or could do were I personally present and further to give any receipt acquitance or discharge for the same on receiving the said moneys and Tobacco as may be necessary for the acquitance or of the said William Gilliam against the said Judgment and Execution and whereas also upon another Judgement obtained by me as admin of Berriman Elliott against one Walker Baylor also a resident within the said District of Kentuckey in the Said Court of Essex County for Giving and of Tobacco to be levied at one penny half penny per pounds and Seven Shillings and six pence of which said or last mentioned Judgement I have also sued out execution and deposited it in the hands of the said Thomas Gist and I do further by these presents vest him the said Thomas Gist with the same authority to act for me and in my stead with respect to the last as the first mentioned Execution all which actings and doings I do hereby ratify and confirm
In Testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed my seal this 20th day of June in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and Ninety one
Henry Garnett
At a Court held for Essex County at Tappa on the 10th day of June 1794 this power of attorney from Henry Garnett to Thomas Gist was acknowledged by the said Henry Garrett to be his proper act and deed and ordered to be recorded
Deed Book 33, 1786-1793, Essex County, Virginia, p306
James Ritchie and Company of Glasgow
List of Debts due to Messrs James Ritchie, Henry Ritchie, James Anderson, Thomas Montgomerie and William Woddrop, under the firm of James Ritchie and Company of Glasgow in North Britain, Merchants; at their Brookesbank or Upper Store, in the Parish of Saint Ann, in the County of Essex and Colony of Virginia and taken from said Store's Books by William Woddrop an attorney in fact in Virginia for said Company . 28th May 1776
William Guillam
Virginia, George Harrison Sanford King Papers, 1914-1985: Caroline. Genealogies 1914–1985 | King George. Genealogies 1914–1985 | Stafford. Genealogies 1914–1985
Orphans Accounts
June ye 11th 1742
By 2 450 of Tobaca @ 16s 8 p
By Cash Reced of Job Spearman for two Barrs Corn
By ditt of Wm Gilliam
Errors Excepted pr Saml Hipkins
September ye 21st 1742
Accounts of Orphans Estates 1731-1760, Essex County, VA page 49
Patents
[Old] Rappahannock
Mr. Thomas Pattison, 400 acs. 8 Nov 1667
S. side of Rappa Co. upon branches of Killman’s Creek, by land of Evin Davis & Thomas Williams. Trans. Of 8 pers: rich. Kathericke, Wm. Clubbs, Alice Long, Edward Joanes, Joane Hannock, Jno. GILLAM, John Norton, Margaret Vackham.
Cavaliers and Pioneers, Volume II, page 25
[Southside of Old Rappahannock County would appear to be present-day Essex County.]
Polls
20 Nov 1741
A true and exact poll of the election of Burgesses taken for the county of Essex at the Court House of the sd county the 20th day of November 1741
For William Beverly:
Wm. GELHAM [GILHAM]
For James Garnett
Wm. GILHAM [GILHAM]
Essex County, VA, Deed Book, 1738-1741
Sweeney, William Montgomery, True and Exact Poll of the Election of Burgesses, Essex County, Virginia, November 20, 174. William and Mary College Quarterly Historical Magazine, 2nd Ser., Vol. 22, No. 1. (Jan., 1942), pp. 54-60.
Personal Property Taxes
1783
Gylliams, Wm, Stark Gylliams, Wm Taylor
Personal Property Taxes 1783, Essex County, Virginia
1784
Gilliam, Wm
Personal Property Taxes 1784, Essex County, Virginia
1785
Gilliam, Wm
Personal Property Taxes 1785, Essex County, Virginia
1786
Gilliam, Wm, Stark Gilliams
Horses 3
Cattle 4
Gilliam Stark
Personal Property Taxes 1786, Essex County, Virginia, page 2
1787
Gilham, William, 2, 3, 8
Gilham, Stark 1,1,2
Personal Property Taxes 1787, Essex County, Virginia,
1788
William Gilham
Personal Property Taxes 1788, Essex County, Virginia
By 1791 William Gilliam was living in KY District
Wills
Will of Joseph Reeves of the of South Farnham
3 Dec 1716
Will of Joseph Reeves of the of South Farnam and county of Essex, being sick and weak of body, dated 3 Dec. 1716, Unto my beloved wife Jane Reeves the third part of all my land during her natural life and after her decease equally divided between my three sons Jackson, Joseph and James . . .
Unto my oldest son Jackson one third part of my land. If Jackson should depart this life without an heir then equally divided between my, other two sons Joseph and James.
Unto my middlemost son one other third part of my land, but if Joseph should depart this life without an heir then equally divided between my Sons Jackson and James
Unto my youngest son James the other third part of my land but if James should depart this life without an heir then equally divided between my sons Jackson and Joseph.
My son in law John Orme[?] shall live seven years undisturbed upon the plantation he now dwells on with the liberty of timber 'for the plantation's use (but no more).
All the rest of my estate to be equally divided between my beloved wife and my three sons Jackson, Joseph and James.
My dear brother Henry Reeves and my beloved wife Jean executor and executrix.
Jos. Reeves
Wit: Jos. Baker, Ann Lewis, David (X) Lewis
16 July 1717. Proved by Joseph Baker and Ann Lewis
1716-1718 Essex County, Virginia Deed & Will Book 15, Part 2; [John Frederick Dorman]; Page 75-76.
Will of Ann Berrick
18 July 1732
Febry the ninth day 1731/2
In the name of God Amen, I Ann Berrick of the county of Essex and Parrish of South Farnham being sick and weak of body but of perfect mind & memory thanks be to almighty God for the same and calling to mind the uncertainty of this transitory life have made and appointed this my last will and testament in manner and form following that is to say Imprimis I give & bequeath my soul into the hands of Almighty God who gave it and my body to the earth to be decently buried at the discretion of my Executors hereafter named and as touching such temporal estate as it hath please Almighty God to bestow upon me I give devise and dispose of the same in the following manner & form.
Item I give & bequeath to my well beloved daughter Elizabeth Fogg after my just debts being paid the reminder parte of my estate.
Item I give & bequeath to my well beloved daughter Elizabeth Parsons one sute of callicoe coaths [sic].
Item I give and bequeath to my well beloved daughter Catherine Jones my side saddle.
Item I give & bequeath to my well beloved son Richard GWILLIAM one shilling sterling.
Item I give and bequeath to my well beloved daughter Aggatha Nash one shilling sterl.
I do hereby appoint my beloved son Edward Lewis my hole and sole executor of this my last will and testament and do hearby [sic] revoke all other wills made by me.
In presence of James Griffing, Wm Smith
Sig: Ann Barrick
At a court held for Essex county at Tappa on the xviiith day of July MDCCXXXII. The last will and testament of Ann Barrick decd was presented in Court by the Execr therein named who made oath thereto & being further proved by the oaths of all the witnesses thereto was admitted to record.
In obedience to an order of Essex County court dated the 18th of July 1732. We the subscribers being sworn before Capt Alexander Parker have inventoried & appraised all the estate of Ann Barrick decd that was brot [sic] to our view as followeth Vizt items listed and valued to total Fifth seven pounds 19/3 1/2 . . . which inventory includes animals, beds, and furniture, one white servant man named Richard Fouracre, a small trunk & Looking glass, a parcill [sic] of old books, one old horse one negro fellow named Sambo; thirteen hundred and fifth three pounds of Tobacco. . .
Edward Lewis Execr
William Greenhill
W. Bourne
John Armstrong
At a Court held for Essex County on the xvth day of August MDCCXXXII
This inventory and appraisement of the estate of Ann Barrick decd being this day returned is ordered to be recorded.
Will Book 5, 1730-1735, Essex County, Virginia, page 89-90
Will of William Gilliam
19 Feb 1742
In the Name of God Amen I William Gilliam of Essex County being at present Sick and Weak in Body but of perfect sences and memory thanks be to God for the same
do ordain constitute and appoint this to be my Last Will and Testament in manner following (that is to say)
First I recommend my Soul to God and my body to the Earth in hopes of a sure & Certain Resurrection, to Life Eternal, through the Merits of Christ’s passion,
My Temporal Estate I dispose of in manner following
Imprims I give to my Son Richard my horse, Saddle bridle & Gun for instead of my horse Eight Hundred pounds of Tobaco & Cash at ye Election of my wife to be paid or delivered to him when he is Twenty one years of age (provided he continues on the plantation with my said wife untill he Comes to that age aforesaid and works both in Corn and Tobacco and other things for the family’s Use and takes diligent Care of ye Stock and all other things on the plantation according to the directions of my Said Wife)
Item if my Said Son Richard shall not agree to or comply with ye premises before that then I give the said Legacie to my wife Elizabeth and her heirs for Ever, but if my said son shall & do Comply with the premises aforesaid that then my will is that my said Wife do pay to my said Son the one half of the Tobacco that he my said son and my Negroe shall or do make untill the time aforesd be Expired
Item I give all the Residue of my Estate, Real and personal or of what Nature Soever to my aforesaid wife Elizabeth and her heirs for Ever and my will is that my Estate be neither Inventoryed nor appraised and that my Executor Shall not be obliged to give any
Lastly I do Appoint my said wife to be my whole and Sole Executor of this my Last Will and Testament hereby revoking all other Wills heretofore by me made In Witness whereof I hereunto Sett my hand & fixed my Seal this nineteenth day of February Ann Dom one thousand Seven hundred & fourty two
William [his mark] Gilliam
Published in ye of Us
Saml Hipkins, Barthol Clark, Jean [her X mark] Clark
At a Court held for Essex County at Sappd on the 15th day of Novr Anno Domr 1783 This Last Will and Testament of William Gilliam dec’ed being presented in Court by Elizabeth Gilliam the Executrix therein who made Oath thereto and being also proved by the Oath of Samuel Hipkins, Gent and Bartholomew Clark two of the Witnesses thereto was admitted to Record and is truely Recorded
Teste W Beverley CCur
Will Book 7, 1743-1747, Essex County, Virginia: page 47-49
Inventory ordered
20 Sep 1743; proved 15 Nov 1743.
Essex County, VA, Will Book ___, page ___.
19 Dec 1743
The Inventory of William Gilliam Decesd
To one Negro fellow Ben
To thirteen head of Cattle
To Eleven head of Sheep
To Sixteen head of hogs
To one horse and Mare
To two feather Beds furnerture
To two flock Beds and furnerture
To one Large Chest
To one old trunk
To two small Copes
To one Duzen of half worn plaits
To three new dishes and one bassen
To some other pewter
To three Iron pots & hooks
To two frying pans
To four tin pans and Cullender
To two small Taibles and three flag Chares
To two Spinning whels and four peare of Cards
To one peare of wheels & Cart & harness
To one plow & twelve old Hoes & sheep Sheares
To two candle sticks and half dozen of Case knives and forks and two box knives
To three Reeping hooks
To three pailes two pigens one washing tub
To one gunn & three Bibles one Testament one pratton one prayer book & some other old Books
To one box Iron and heters & one Spit Iron
To one mans Sadle & one womans Sadle & three Bridles
To three butter pots & some other Earthen ware
To two stone bottles and four Glass Bottles
To one small trunk New
To a small matter of New Linnings
To a Sume Cotten and same will
To his warring Cloathes
as for the Tobacco and Corn I do not no how to give Admnt of it
Elizabeth [her X mark] Gilliam
At a Court held for Essex County on ye 20th day of Decr Anno Domo 1743 the Inventory of ye Estate of William Gillam decd being Returned was ordered to be Recorded and is truely Recorded
Will Book 7, 1743-1747, Essex County, Virginia: page 58
21 Oct 1765
Estate of John Jones decd
to Cash paid Jno Gronell part of his Debt T
to Cash paid Mr James Mills
To paid his levies and taxes in Orange for the year
To Cash paid Capt Thomas Jamison
To paid Martha Gillam her acct
Will Book 12, 1762-1775, Essex County, Virginia: page 219
18 Jul 1768
The estate of Ann Barbee deceased to Francis Barbee acting Executor
To Mary Turner
To Ralph Farmer
To John Turnas Turner
To Robert Houston
To William Gilliam
Will book 12, 1762-1775, Essex County, Virginia: page 297
Will of John Clark
28 Nov 1771
In the Name of God Amen I John Clark of Essex County and a Parish of St Anns being Very Sick and weak but in perfect sence and memory thanks be to God for the same but calling to mind the Mortallity of my Body and knowing that it is appointed for all men Once to die do make and ordain this my Last Will and Testament
That is to say principally and first of all I give and recommend my Soul into the hands of God that gave it me and for my Body I commend it to earth to be buried in a Decent like Manner at the descretion of my Executors nothing Doubting but at ye General Resurrection I shall Receive ye same again by ye mighty power of God and as to Such worldly Estate wherewith it hath pleased God to bless me with I give Devise and Dispose of the same in the Following manner and form as follows
Item I give to my beloved wife Mary Clark all my whole Estate both Real and Personable to do with all as she shall think proper of and I do hereby utterly Disallow revoke and Disannul all and every other former testament or will whatever leaving my son Hedrick Clark and Wm Clark my whole and Sole Executors
Signed with my hand and Sealed with my seal this 28th of November one thousand seven hundred Seventy one
Sig: John Clark
William Gilliam
Samuel Davis
Bettey Clark
At a Court held for Essex County at Tapp on Monday the 15th day of June 1772 This Will was proved by the Oath of Samuel Davis a Witness thereto which is ordered to be certified
Teste John Lee Clk
At a Court held for Essex County at Tapp on Monday the 20th day of July 1773 This Will was further proved by the Oath of William Gilliam another Witness thereto which admitted to record
Teste John Lee Clk
Will Book 12, 1762-1775, Essex County, Virginia, page 476
Jan 1761 [1771?]
Estate of Mr William Jones decd
To Cash paid William Guillam for cutting Negro cloths
Will Book 13, 1775-1785, Essex County, Virginia, page 172
Sources
- Essex County, VA, Court Orders
- Essex County, VA, Deeds
- Essex County, VA, Personal Property Tax Lists
- Essex County, VA, Wills
- Genealogies of Virginia Families, Volume III, Towles and Clark Families, page 600.
- Sweeney, William Montgomery, True and Exact Poll of the Election of Burgesses, Essex County, Virginia, November 20, 1741. William and Mary College Quarterly Historical Magazine, 2nd Ser., Vol. 22, No. 1. (Jan., 1942), pp. 54-60.