The Descendants of Margaret Ewing
Margaret2, Ewing (Alexader1, Robert A)
Go to Chapter 6 Alexander Ewing father of Margaret
1. Margaret Ewing {73} was born about 1732 in Cecil County, Maryland. She was the daughter of Alexander Ewing {66} and Rebeckah [———?———] {68}. Margaret died in Prince Edward County, Virginia sometime after November 1800, when she and Andrew consented to the marriage of their daughter Sarah, and June 1820 when Andrew wrote his will. She married Andrew Porter {3849}. Some Porter descendants believe that he was born about 1734 in Coleraine, Londonderry County, Ulster, Ireland; his place of birth has not been proven. Andrew died 18 Nov 1821 in Prince Edward County, Virginia.
Known children of Margaret are:
+ 2. i. Jane Ewing Porter {3852}, born about 1756, died 17 Mar 1830.
+ 3. ii. Robert H. Porter {3850}, born about 1758, died about 1830.
+ 4. iii. Samuel M. Porter {3851}, died about 1831.
5. iv. Elizabeth Porter {3853}. She married ________ Hamilton {3861}.
Based on the will of Samuel Ewing, see Chapter 7, Betty Porter was to receive forty pounds from her brother Robert Porter. Based on a record in the Prince Edward County, Virginia Deed Book 11, page 159, dated 14 October 1797, Betty Porter, "x" her mark, to Robert Porter [her brother] gave acknowledgment that "forty pounds Virginia Currency in full his part of a legacy left me by my unkl (sic) Samuel Ewing who ordered the said Porter by his last will to pay me the aforesaid sume on acct of a tract of land lying in Montgomery County..." The full text of that document is presented later in this chapter.
Elizabeth's "Betty" inheritance from her uncle helps to identify this Porter family to the Ewing family. Also, it appears that we can assume that Elizabeth got married in Prince Edward County and that she and her husband continued to live in that county at least up to the time that the above record was executed in 1797.
6. v. Margaret Porter {3854}. She married Stephen Woodrum {3862} 13 Sep 1797 in Prince Edward County, Virginia.
She was known as "Peggy". When the marriage license (bond) was issued to Stephen Woodrum and Peggy Porter, it was indicated she was the daughter of Andrew
Porter and the Surety was William Mitchell.
7. vi. Sarah Porter {3855}. She married William Mitchell, Jr. {3863} 13 Nov 1800 in Prince Edward County, Virginia.
When the marriage license (bond) was issued to William Mitchell and Sarah Porter, it was
indicated she was the daughter of Andrew and Margaret Porter who consent and the Surety was
Benjamin Giles.
+ 8. vii. Eleanor Porter {3856}, died before 1815.
9. viii. Rebecca Porter {3857}, died before 1821.
Since Rebecca was not mentioned in her father's will, we have assumed that she had died before he wrote his will. Rebecca is mentioned in the wills of two of her Ewing uncles. Samuel Ewing states in his will "I also leave unto my Sister Margaret Porter's Daughter Rebecah Porter my Negro wench Cats Six years after my Decease forever." William Ewing states in his will "I also give unto my sister Margaret Porter's daughter Rebecca Porter my negro girl Sal at the decease of my loving wife."
Andrew Porter was in the military service during the American Revolution. He was attached to the Commissary Department with the rank of Colonel. See Virginia Council Journals 1783-4-5, page 505. "Also warrant on the same fund for twenty three pounds and five shillings for his service as Commissary to said Commissioners as per account." Date 10 December 1784, Vol. 8, page 355.
As time passes and more genealogical information becomes available or accessible, we are able to find information that is different from or adds to the information that has been published earlier. That is the case with the family of Margaret Ewing and Andrew Porter.
The above family is different from what most Ewing descendants will recognize, but, it is the family that the Porter descendants have come to recognize over the past few years. The additional documents that have been found establish the correct names for the parents and the names of the children.
The family of Eleanor Ewing {72} who is believed to be the oldest child of Alexander {66} and Rebeckah Ewing was discussed in the prior chapter. Her family needs to be studied with the family of Margaret since the two families have been incorrectly presented in earlier publications. In 1957, Marguerite and Vernon Brown published a book, Ewing - McCulloch - Buchanan Genealogy that included the family of Alexander Ewing of Cecil County, Maryland. In their book, they stated Robert Porter married Margaret Ewing the daughter of Alexander Ewing {66}. Since the Browns published their findings, several additional books, charts, and articles have been printed reproducing some of the same errors. The latest was a book published in 1995. I am happy to say since 1995 the author of that book and I concur on this family as it is presented in this book.
The marriage records of the daughters might give us some clue as to when Margaret Porter {73} died. From the book Marriage Bonds Prince Edward County, Virginia by Knorr, we find the following:
Jane Ewing Porter 23 Aug 1781 Surety Andrew Porter who consents.
Eleanor Porter 7 Jan 1789 daughter of Andrew Porter who consents.
Peggy Porter 13 Sept 1797 daughter of Andrew Porter.
Sarah Porter 13 Nov 1800 daughter of Andrew & Margaret Porter who consent.
It appears from the above that Margaret Porter was still alive in November 1800 when her daughter, Sarah, got married to William Mitchell, Jr. That being the case Margaret would have been about 68 years old and that is a reasonable age a person would live to be.
Since 1957 when the Browns published their book, additional information has been found that establishes the fact that Robert Porter {3837} was not married to Margaret Ewing, and Robert Porter was proven, in the prior chapter, to be a son of Eleanor Ewing {72} and Andrew Porter {3836} of Cecil County, Maryland.
It is believed that Andrew Porter {3849} married Margaret Ewing {73} in Cecil County, Maryland and they moved to Prince Edward County, Virginia. In 1753-54, Prince Edward was organized as a county, the area being taken from Amelia county. The date that Margaret and Andrew Porter moved to Virginia has not been established. However, we do know that they were in Prince Edward County by 1759 when William Ewing {70} of Cecil County, Maryland, a brother-in-law to Andrew Porter, executed a power of attorney. The following is extracted from the Power of Attorney recorded as indicated:
Prince Edward County, Virginia Deed Book 2, page 17
On 12 December 1759, William Ewing of Cecil County, Maryland signed a power of attorney to Andrew Porter giving him the authority to "prosecute suits for me in my name in as full and ample a manner as myself might".
In some published accounts the Andrew Porter who lived and died in Cecil County, Maryland has been identified as living in Prince Edward County, Virginia and that is incorrect. The following deed information clearly identifies the wife of this Andrew Porter that lived in Prince Edward County, Virginia as Margaret. This deed is an important document since it identifies Margaret as the wife of Andrew Porter and it is the only deed where Margaret is identified by name when Andrew is selling land.
Prince Edward County, Virginia Deed Book 2, page 201
On 19 March 1764, Andrew Porter sells to James Weakley for the sum of fifteen pounds current money of Virginia a certain tract of land situated, lying and being on the branches of Sanys [Swane's] Creek in the county of Prince Edward containing one hundred and fifty acres. Andrew Porter signed this deed. . .
Andrew Porter [Seal]
At a court held for Prince Edward County the 19th day of March 1764 Andrew Porter presented and acknowledged the within deed with the memorandum and receipt thereon endorsed to James Weakly which was ordered to be recorded. Margaret the wife of the said Andrew being privately examined as the law directs voluntarily relinquished her right of dower in and to the said land which was ordered to be certified.
Prince Edward County, Virginia Deed Book 2, page 203
On 29 December 1763, Andrew Porter of Prince Edward County sold to John McElroy for and in consideration of the sum of twenty seven pounds current money of Virginia for one certain tract of land containing one hundred acres of land less or more situated, lying and being in the said County of Prince Edward on both sides of Sawnye Creek [Swane's Creek]. Andrew Porter signed this deed. A wife was not interviewed in connection with this deed.
Prince Edward County, Virginia Deed Book 4, page 244
On 18 April, 1772, Andrew Porter of Prince Edward County sold to James Roys for and in consideration of the sum of nineteen pounds fifteen shillings currency money of Virginia one certain tract of land. The acres and location are not given.
When the above land was sold, the wife was privately examined and relinquished her right of dower to the lands, but her name is not given.
On a map drawn by John Wood's dated 1820, the creek where Andrew Porter's land was located is shown as Swane's Creek and the location of Andrew Porter's land is indicated on that map. Today, the creek's name is Suanne and is located in the county of Appomattox, Virginia. Appomattox County was organized in 1845 the area being
taken from four counties.
The identification of Margaret as the wife of Andrew Porter in Prince Edward county, Virginia does not tell us who she is and if she is a Ewing. By establishing who are the children of Margaret and Andrew Porter, we can properly identify the family of Margaret {73} and Andrew Porter {3849} which makes it easier to properly identify the family of Eleanor {{72} and Andrew Porter {3849} discussed in Chapter 8.
First, we will look at the will of Andrew Porter {3849}. The will of Andrew gives us the names of his children and the heirs of a child if the child preceded Andrew in death. Not only does the will identify his children, their married name is also stated. As in many cases a child or two preceded the parents in death. That is the case with Andrew and the records presented will prove who the heirs are.
Prince Edward County, Virginia Will Book 5 page 571
Will of Andrew Porter
In the name of God, Amen. I Andrew Porter of Prince Edward county being weak but of sound mind and memory and knowing that it is appointed for all men once to die, do make and ordain this my last will and testament. First I desire to give my soul to God of whom I received it and my body to the dust to be decently buried at the discretion of my executors hereafter named. I wish all my stock of every description to be sold with the crops now growing, the household and kitchen furniture, and pay all my lawful debts. I then give to my son Robert Porter ___ shillings. I order the ____ and two acres of land more or less, part of Miller's tract to be rented out and the money collected and pay the taxes and the balance to go to my son Samuel Porter during his life. I then leave to my great grandson, James Porter of Wythe County, Va., fifteen pounds current money. I give to my daughter, Jane E. Trabue, twenty pounds current money - now I believe that I owe Robert & James Trabue twenty-two dollars which I order to be paid them. I give to my daughter, Elizabeth Hamilton, one shilling and sixpence. To my daughter Peggy Woodram all the property lent her by me when she went to house keeping amounting to four pounds or there about. With one shilling and sixpence to my daughter Sarah Mitchell. My will is that my two slaves, Tom & Cate receive their freedom and that my executors pay them thirty dollars each for the purpose of paying their expenses to a free state if they choose to go. If they do not think proper to go to a free state they may choose their master or mistress and continue in this state. I give to my grandson, William Williams one shilling and sixpence and also to my grand-daughter Sarah Williams one shilling and sixpence.
I wish my executors to rent out the land whereon I now live and after paying the taxes of said land to divide the balance of the money between my great grandson James Porter and Jane E. Trabue. I do appoint William McKinney and Charles McKinney his brother, both of Charlotte Co., my executors to this my last will and testament. Witness my hand and seal this 22nd of June 1820.
Witness: Andrew Porter [Seal]
At a court held for Prince Edward County the 19th day of November, 1821, this last will and testament of Andrew Porter, deceased, was presented in court and proved by the oath of B. S. Pryor and Obediah Childress, two witnesses thereto. Ordered that the same be recorded on the motion of William and Charles McKinney, executor in said will named who with Marshall and Samuel Branch, their security entered into and acknowledged this bond for the purpose in the penalty of one thousand dollars, conditions according to same and took the oath required by law. Certificate for obtaining probate thereof is ____ granted them.
B. Monihan
In Chapter 7, we presented the wills of Samuel and William Ewing. Their wills also name some of the children of Margaret and Andrew Porter. Therefore, we should look at all of the names identified in the different wills.
To help identify each person named in the wills, a number has been assigned to each person. For the grandchildren, a number such as 1.1 has been used to identify the parent of the person mentioned. 1.1 The grandson James Porter is believed to be the son of Samuel Porter since Robert Porter did not have a son named James.
Andrew Porter's will:
wife is not named, she is assumed to have preceded her husband in death
1. son: Samuel
1.1 g son: James Porter
2. son: Robert
3. dau: Jane E. Trabue
4. dau: Elizabeth Hamilton
5. dau: Peggy Woodram
6. dau: Sarah Mitchell
7.
7.1 g son: William Williams
7.2 g dau: Sarah Williams
8. Rebecca is not mentioned
Samuel Ewing's will:
1. Samuel, my sister Margaret Porter son
2. Robert Porter, a son of my sister Margaret
4. Betty Porter
5. Margaret Porter, a sister of Samuel
6. Sarah
7. Elender, my sister Margaret Porter's daughter
8. Rebecca, my sister Margaret Porter's daughter
William Ewing's will:
1. Sam, my sister Margaret Porter's son
2. Robert, my sister Margaret Porter's son
8. Rebecca, my sister Margaret Porter's daughter
None of the three wills that names children of Margaret and Andrew Porter names all of the children by name. But, it appears, we can account for the differences in the names that are not included in a will. The will of Andrew Porter and the will of Samuel Ewing combined names all of the children.
Eleanor (Elender in Samuel's will) is not mentioned in her father's will. Eleanor had married William Williams and this daughter had preceded Andrew in death. Therefore, Andrew gave something to her heirs. That being Sarah and William Williams. Later, a document will be mentioned that states they are the only heirs of Eleanor and William Williams.
Rebecca is mentioned in both Ewing wills, Samuel and William, but, she is not in her father's will. We have assumed that Rebecca must have died before her father wrote his will. No record has been found indicating that Rebecca ever married. William Ewing signed his will dated July 26, 1791. We assume that Rebecca died after that date and before her father's will signed on June 22, 1820.
Jane is not mentioned in the Ewing wills. Jane had married James Trabue in August 1781. That marriage took place about two years before Samuel Ewing signed his will. It is possible that Samuel did not consider Jane in his will since she was married.
It appears that all of the girls of Margaret and Andrew Porter were married by the time, July 26, 1791, when William Ewing signed his will except Sarah and Rebecca. There does not appear to be an explanation for William Ewing not naming Sarah in his will. It could be William felt a need to help provide for Rebecca and the need was not there for Sarah. A slave in those days was an important asset.
The fact that wills have been presented where the names match for the children of Margaret and Andrew Porter that in itself is not "air tight" proof. How do we know that Margaret was a Ewing?
When James Ewing, a brother of Margaret, wrote his will undoubtedly he knew exactly what he was doing and saying when he said "the other moiety to Andrew Porter's children and their heirs". A 150 years or so later when people were researching the Ewing family or this Porter family they did not know all of the parties involved. Therefore, there was room for a person to misinterpret the information they had found.
We most likely have not found all of the information for this family but the additional information that has been found helps to properly identify the children of Margaret Ewing Porter. Please note the information from the following documents found in Prince Edward and Wythe counties in Virginia.
Wythe County, Virginia Deed Book 6, page 316
This indenture made this Eighteenth day of February in the year of our Lord 1815 between Williams (sic) Williams Elizabeth Porter and Sarah Williams of the County of Prince Edward of the one part and Thomas Jackson of the County of Wythe of the other part. The said Wm. Williams, Elizabeth Porter & Sarah Williams for and in consideration of the sum of sixty Dollars to the aforesaid William, Elizabeth & Sarah in had paid by the said Thomas Jackson at and before the sealing and delivering of these presents the receipt whereof is hereby acknowledged both granted, bargained, sold & deliver & by their presents doth grant Bargain sell and deliver unto the said Thomas Jackson his heirs & assigned forever all the right title claim interest or demand which we the undersigned have to a certain undivided tract or parcel of land lying and being in the County of Wythe on the East side of New River (at Porters Ford) which intersect in said land I the said Elizabeth derived title to under the last Will and Testament of James Ewing deceased ~ We William Williams & Sarah Williams derived our title from being the only heirs & representatives of Elenor Williams late Elenor Porter who devised title under the above said Will to have and to hold allow interest in the said land & premises . . . whereof we have here unto set our hands and seals the day and year above written.
Teste William Williams
Isham Clark Elizabeth Porter [signed with her mark]
William Childres Sarah Williams [signed with her mark]
The above deed was presented in court and recorded 13 September 1815.
The following Power of Attorney is from William Williams the father of Sarah and William Williams. He was married to Eleanor Porter. Note that the William Williams, the son, signed the above document. And, William Williams, the father, used his mark as his signature on the following document.
Prince Edward County, Virginia Deed Book 9, page 283
Known all men by these present that I William Williams of Prince Edward County in the state of Virginia for divers food causes and considerations me hereunto moving have made ordered authorized nominated and appointed, and by these present do make ordain, authorize and appoint William Mathews my true and lawful attorney, for me, and in my name, to act, demand, sue for and recover of soutz [such] person, or persons, in whose lands the legacies may be in (which legacies) were left to Ellinor Porter by Samuel Ewing last will and testament before her intermarriage with me the said William Williams and by James Ewing since her intermarriage with me the said Williams wh___ all such sum or sums of money, ____ and demands whatsoever, which are now due unto me as Husband of the said Ellinor, and to have use and take all lawful ways and means, in my name, or _______ for recovery these of and to compound and agree for the same, and acquittance or other sufficient discharges for the same for me and in my name, to make such and deliver, and to do all other lawful acts and things whatsoever considering the premises, as fully as every respect, as I myself might or could do even I personally present at the doing thereof, and _____ one or more under him for the purpose aforesaid to make and again at his pleasure to _____ ______ and confirming and by these presents allowing what my said attorney shall in my name do, or cause to be done, in and about the premises by virtue of these presents which are ____ called witness whereof I have hereunto affixed my hand and seal this second day of December in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and ninety one
Sealed and Delivered }
in the presents of } William Williams [signed with his mark]
Examined: At a court held for Prince Edward County June 18th 1792 This letter of attorney was presented in Court and proved by the oath of Ambrose Inge & at another Court held for the said County September 16th 1793 this letter of attorney was further proved by the oath of John Hundley another witnesses there to and ordered to be recorded ~
Teste
Watkins C
Wythe County, Virginia Deed Book 6, page 391
This indenture made the 13th of May 1823 between Samuel Porter Ursley (Ursula) his wife of the County of Wythe & State of Virginia of the one part & Thomas Jackson of the county and state aforesaid of the other part. Witnesseth that for and in consideration of the sum of Twenty Dollars lawful money of the United States to the said Samuel Porter & Ursley [Ursula] his wife in had paid by the said Thomas Jackson (before the unsealing and delivering of these present doth give grant bargain sell unto the said Thomas Jackson and his heir forever his the said Samuel Porter right and (title) interest of one certain parcel of land lying in Wythe County on the east side of New River on said river and on both sides of the road that crosses the road leading to Porters Ford and being part of a parcel of land devised to the said Samuel Porter & others by the last Will and Testament of James Ewing deceased and yet undivided . . . We have hereunto subscribed our names and affixed our seals the day & year above written.
The deed is signed by Samuel Porter but the second signature appears to be only a mark. Seal is indicated after each.
At a Court held for Wythe County the 13th day of May 1823, This indenture of Bargain & sale from Samuel Porter & Ursula his wife to Thomas Jackson was presented in Court & acknowledged by the said Samuel Porter as his act & deed and the same is ordered to be recorded.
Prince Edward County, Virginia Deed Book 6, page 290
On 17 April 1780, Andrew Porter of the County of Prince Edward purchased from William Mills for and in consideration of the sum of three thousand three hundred pounds Virginia Currency one certain tract or parcel of land lying and being in Prince Edward County on both sides Sawney's Creek [Swane’s Creek] and containing two hundred acres.
Prince Edward County, Virginia Deed Book 9, page 257
On 15 May 1792, Andrew Porter of Prince Edward County sells to William Matthews for and in consideration of the sum of eighty pounds current money of Virginia one certain tract or parcel of land containing one hundred and eight acres.
At a court held for Prince Edward county December 17, 1792. This indenture of bargain and sale between Andrew Porter of the one part and William Matthews of the other with receipt ___ indorsed and presented in Court and proved by the oath of Robert Kelso and John Crocket as to the Indenture and by said Crocket as to the receipt, and at another Court held for the said County April 15, 1793 this indenture was further proved by the oath of William Porter another witness thereto and ordered to be recorded. Teste Watkins Clk
Prince Edward County, Virginia Deed Book 10, page 437
On 12 September 1795 Andrew Porter sold to John Dabney for the sum of sixty nine pounds six shillings of Virginia currency one certain tract or parcel of land lying in the County of Prince Edward on both sides of the middle branch of Sawneys creek and containing one hundred and twenty six acres. Andrew Porter signed this deed.
No wife is mentioned when the witnesses were examined April 17, 1796 when the deed was recorded.
Prince Edward County, Virginia Deed Book 11, page 63
On 19 June 1797 Robert Kelso sold to Andrew Porter for and in consideration of the natural love and affection which he bears to the said Andrew Porter and also for the consideration of one Dollar one certain tract or parcel of land (not legible). Signed by Robert Kelso
At a Court held for Prince Edward County June 19, 1797. This deed of gift was presented in Court and acknowledge by Robert Kelso party thereto is to be his act and deed. Ordered that the same be recorded.
Teste T. Mathews CC
The reason for this land to be given to Andrew Porter by Robert Kelso is not known. There are some other Porters that lived in this area. On 14 Jan 1797, Francis Porter purchased some land from Robert Kelso and it is recorded in DB 11 on page 53.
Prince Edward County, Virginia Deed Book 11, page 159
Received from Robert Porter Forty pounds Virginia Currency in full of his part of a Legacy left me by my Unkl Samuel Ewing who ordered the said Porter by his last will to pay me the aforesaid sum on acct. of a tract of land lying in Montgomery County (now Wythe Cty) which the said Ewing devised to the said Porter in his last will aforesaid I say received by me this 14 October 1797
Teste
Robert Kelso Betty Porter [signed with her mark]
At a Court held for Prince Edward County October 16th 1797.
This Receipt was presented in court and proved by the Oaths of two of the Witnesses thereto ordered that the same be recorded.
Teste
T. Watkins CC
The above information appears to me to clearly identify Andrew Porter and Margaret, his wife, the subjects of this chapter, to the Ewing family being presented in this book
______________________________________________
2. Jane Ewing Porter {3852} was born about 1756. She was the daughter of Andrew Porter {3849} and Margaret Ewing {73}. Jane died 17 Mar 1830 in Kentucky. She married James Trabue {3860} 23 Aug 1781 in Prince Edward County, Virginia. He was born 29 Jan 1746. He was the son of John J. Trabue {4399} and Olympia Dupuy {4400}. James died 23 Dec 1803. Andrew Porter was the surety on the marriage bond and he also consents to the marriage. .
Return to beginning of chapter
Known children of Jane are:
3. Robert H. Porter {3850} was born about 1758. He was the son of Andrew Porter {3849} and Margaret Ewing {73}. Robert died about 1830 in Wythe County, Virginia. He married Ann Black {3858} 10 Mar 1791 in Prince Edward County, Virginia. She was the daughter of James Black {3948} and Leah [———?———] {4578}. Ann died before 1830.
Return to beginning of chapter
Known children of Robert are:
16. ii. Susannah Porter {3940}, born about 1790.
+ 17. iii. Andrew Porter {3941}, born about 1792, died about 1864.
18. iv. William Porter {3942}, born about 1794, died about 1817 in Wythe County, Virginia.
19. v. Margaret Porter {3943}, born about 1796.
+ 20. vi. Robert Porter {3944}, born about 1797, died about 1863.
21. vii. Mary Porter {3945}, born about 1799. She married Stephen Kettering {3987} 12 Sep 1818 in Wythe County, Virginia. She was known as "Polly".
+ 22. viii. John Porter {3947}, born about 1803, died about 1859.
Robert H. was of taxable age in 1774 in Prince Edward County. According to descendants of the current generation, Robert lived in the Ivanhoe, Virginia area and the Porters known as the Ivanhoe Porters are descendants of Robert H. Porter and the Cripple Creek Porters of Wythe County, Virginia came from Robert Porter, a descendant of Eleanor Ewing Porter.
Based on his will dated 20 Apr 1830 proved 10 May 1830 in Wythe County, Virginia, we know the year he died. (Will Book 3:401) He names himself as Robert Porter, Senr. and his wife is not named in the will. Robert names his children in his will: son, Andrew; daughter, Polly Kettering, wife of Stephen Kettering; son, Robert; son, James; son, John; my grandson, Robert Henry, son of my son James; my grand-daughter say the daughter of my son Janes (sic), by the name of Susannah. The witnesses are William Thornbrugh, Lee Nuckolls and William Bowles.
In the marriage bond, Ann is identified as being the daughter of James Black who consents to the marriage and John Black is the surety. The will of James Black recorded in Wythe County, Virginia in Will Book 1 page 364, he identifies his daughter as "Ann wife of Robert Porter".
4. Samuel M. Porter {3851} was most likely born between 1760 and 1765, based on the age recorded on the 1810 census, in Prince Edward County, Virginia. He was the son of Andrew Porter {3849} and Margaret Ewing {73}. Samuel died about 1831 in Wythe County, Virginia. He married Ursula Sublett {3859} 19 Aug 1790 in Charlotte County, Virginia. She was born 24 Mar 1769 in Goochland County, Virginia. She was the daughter of Benjamin Sublett {3968} and Elizabeth Jordan {3969}. Ursula died 13 May 1823 in Wythe County, Virginia.
Return to beginning of chapter
Known children of Samuel are:
+ 23. i. Rebecca Porter {3952}, born about 1791.
+ 24. ii. Margaret Porter {3953}, born about 1793, died about 1823.
+ 25. iii. Elizabeth Porter {3954}.
26. iv. Sally Porter {3955}. She married George Keith Porter {3963}.
+ 27. v. Samuel Ewing Porter {3956}, born 5 Jun 1799, died 29 May 1893.
+ 28. vi. Jane Porter {3957}.
+ 29. vii. Ursula Porter {3958}, born about 1809.
+ 30. viii. Jordan Porter {3959}, born 22 Dec 1807, died 11 Feb 1860.
The year of birth for Samuel is in question based on 1810 census for Prince Edward County, Virginia which shows his age over 45 years. Information from Marriage Bonds extracted for Charlotte County, Virginia a marriage bond was issued 18 Aug 1790, to Samuel Porter and Ursula Farguson, (sic) widow of John Farguson (sic). Surety was Jordan Sublett and Samuel Porter of Prince Edward County, and it was noted married 19 August.
In Wythe County, Virginia Deed Book 9, page 291, a deed dated 13 May 1823 Samuel Porter and Ursley, (sic) his wife, sells land to Thomas Jackson. The land is identified as being devised to Samuel Porter by will of James Ewing, deceased.
In his will, he identifies himself as Samuel Porter, Sen. of Wythe Co., Virginia. The will is dated 8 July 1830 and was recorded 14 Feb 1831 in Wythe Co., Virginia. He does not identify a wife. He identifies his children: son, Samuel E. Porter; son Gurden [Jordan] Porter; daughter, Peggy Porter; daughter, Rebecca Welch the wife of William Welch; daughter, Betsey Porter the wife of Daniel Porter; daughter Sally Porter the wife of George Keith Porter, daughter Jain [Jane] Porter the wife of Andrew Porter, Jr.; daughter Ursula Welch the wife of Samuel Welch. He appoints Samuel E. Porter and Gurden [Jordan] Porter as his executors. The witnesses: Wm. Thornbrugh and Lee Nuckolls.
Ursula first marriage was to Joel Ferguson. They married 7 April 1788 in Charlotte County, Virginia. He died being married one month.
8. Eleanor Porter {3856}. She was the daughter of Andrew Porter {3849} and Margaret Ewing {73}. Eleanor died before 1815. She married William Williams {3864} 7 Jan 1789. From extracts for marriage bonds Prince Edward County, Virginia, Eleanor Porter is identified as the daughter of Andrew and who consents. The Surety was Robert Porter.
Return to beginning of chapter
Known children of Eleanor are:
31. i. William Williams {4126}.
32. ii. Sarah Williams {4127}.
Wythe County, Virginia Deed Book 6, page 316, records a deed where Sarah and William are identified as the sole heirs of Eleanor Porter Williams. The deed is dated February 1815 and indicates that the land was inherited from James Ewing.
William, the father, must have lived in Prince Edward County based on a deed recorded there in Deed Book 9, page 283, dated 2 Dec 1791, which identifies William Williams as the husband of Elinor Porter, and gives a power of attorney to William Mathews to collect what is "...left to Elinor Porter by Samuel Ewing's last will..."
______________________________________________
17. Andrew Porter {3941} was born about 1792. He was the son of Robert H. Porter {3850} and Ann Black {3858}. Andrew died about 1864 in Carroll County, Virginia. He married (1) Jane Porter {3957} 1820 in Wythe County, Virginia. She was the daughter of Samuel M. Porter {3851} and Ursula Sublett {3859}.
Known child of Andrew and Jane is:
+ 37. i. Stephen Calhoun Porter {4419}, born about 1823, died 26 Jun 1910.
Andrew married (2) Elizabeth Jones {4472}. She was born about 1802. Elizabeth died after 1880.
Known children of Andrew and Elizabeth are:
38. ii. Polly Porter {4473}, born about 1835. She married John Austin .
39. iii. Martha Catron Porter {4474}, born 5 Jan 1837. She married William Edwards {4481} about 1857 in Carroll County, Virginia. Martha died 31 Jan 1913 and she is buried in the Mount Olivet Cemetery in Fries, Virginia.
40. iv. Calvin N. Porter {4475}, born about 1838 in Rockbridge County, Virginia, died 9 May 1864. Calvin died in the Battle of Cloy's Farm. He was a Lt. in the CSA in the war between the states.
41. v. Charity Porter {4476}, born about 1840. She married John F. Edwards {4482} 30 Nov 1865 in Carroll County, Virginia. She is buried in Wise County, Virginia.
42. vi. Amanda Jane Porter {4477}, born 25 Nov 1841 in Wythe County, Virginia. She married James A. Sisk {4483} 7 Feb 1867 in Carroll County, Virginia. Amanda died 17 Feb 1911.
43. vii. Barbara Ann Porter {4478}, born 14 Oct 1845 in Wythe County, Virginia. She married James A. Shupe {4484} 4 Aug 1864 in Carroll County, Virginia. Barbara died 6 Mar 1924 in Grayson County, Virginia.
44. viii. Andrew Porter {4479}, born about 1847, died about 1860/1864.
20. Robert Porter {3944} was born about 1797. He was the son of Robert H. Porter {3850} and Ann Black {3858}. Robert died about 1863. He married (1) Malinda Bell {3950}. She was born 8 Mar 1805. Malinda died 17 Apr 1831 and she is buried in the Gregory Family Cemetery located south of Austinville, Carroll County, Virginia, on State Rt. 636. .
Known children of Robert and Malinda are:
45. i. Malinda F. Porter {4426}, born about 1831. She married James T. Early {4436} 15 Dec 1847 in Wythe County, Virginia. He was born about 1825.
46. ii. Mary Ann Porter {4427}. She married Addison Cliburn {4437}. He was born about 1821.
47. iii. James Porter {4428}, born about 1827, died about 1862.
48. iv. William Porter {4429}.
Robert married (2) Eliza P. Williams {3951} 21 Nov 1833 in Smyth County, Virginia. She was born about 1810.
Known children of Robert and Eliza are:
49. v. Sarah Jane Porter {4430}, born about 1837. She married S. W. Williams {4438}.
50. vi. Samuel W. Porter {4431}, born about 1842, died about 1863.
51. vii. William B. Porter {4432}, born 2 Sep 1844, died 11 Jul 1897. He is buried in the Forest Methodist Cemetery in Ivanhoe, Virginia.
52. viii. Eliza P. Porter {4433}, born about 1847. She married William Little {4439}. He was born 25 Nov 1842 in England. William died 12 Mar 1912. Eliza died about 1926.
53. ix. Robert Ewing Porter {4434}, born about 1848.
54. x. Benjamin Frank Porter {4435}, born 3 Dec 1851. He married Martha E. Jackson {4440} 22 Dec 1875. She was born 4 May 1854. She was the daughter of George Jackson {4441} and Sarah Williams {4442}. Martha died 9 Apr 1921. Benjamin died 26 Jan 1921 in Wythe County, Virginia. Martha and Benjamin are buried in the Davis Cemetery located on St. Rt. 646 in Wythe County, Virginia.
22. John Porter {3947} was born about 1803. He was the son of Robert H. Porter {3850} and Ann Black {3858}. John died about 1859. He married Elizabeth Hendricks {3988} 19 Mar 1829 in Grayson County, Virginia. She was born about 1804.
Known children of John are:
55. i. Susan Porter {4443}, born about 1827.
56. ii. Ann Porter {4444}, born about 1829. She married Samuel Allison {4452} 30 Jul 1857 in Wythe County, Virginia.
57. iii. Elizabeth Porter {4445}, born about 1831. She married John S. Paris {4453} 8 Mar 1854 in Wythe County, Virginia.
58. iv. Robert Porter {4446}, born about 1833.
59. v. Sarah Porter {4447}, born about 1835.
60. vi. James Porter {4448}, born about 1838.
61. vii. Martha Porter {4449}, born about 1840.
62. viii. John Porter {4450}, born about 1844.
63. ix. Margaret Porter {4451}, born about 1848. She married James R. Dunford {4454} 4 Mar 1902 in Wythe County, Virginia.
23. Rebecca Porter {3952} was born about 1791. She was the daughter of Samuel M. Porter {3851} and Ursula Sublett {3859}. She married William Welsh {3960}. He was the son of John Welsh {3949} and Leah Leatherman {3965}. William died about 1875 in Wythe County, Virginia. He is buried in the Davis Cemetery, located on St. Rt. 646, Wythe County, Virginia.
Known children of Rebecca are:
65. iv. Eliza Welsh {4458}, born about 1823.
66. iii. Tilton Welsh {4457}, born about 1829.
67. v. Bettie P. Welsh {4459}, born about 1831. She married J. L. Bunts {4462} 29 Jul 1872 in Wythe County, Virginia.
68. vi. Filden Welsh {4460}, born about 1832.
69. i. Nicholas Leatherman Welsh {4455}, born 22 Dec 1833 in Grayson County, Virginia. He married Mary Jane Hendricks {4461} 5 Oct 1854. She was born 28 Jan 1834. Mary died 22 Apr 1925. Nicholas died 8 May 1921. Nicholas and Mary are buried in the Davis Cemetery located on St. Rt. 646 in Wythe County, Virginia.
24. Margaret “Peggy” Porter {3953} was born about 1793. She was the daughter of Samuel M. Porter {3851} and Ursula Sublett {3859}. Margaret died about 1823. She married Allen Porter {6172} about 1809/10. He was born about 1787/88 in Virginia and died July 1849.
Known children of Margaret are:
69a. i. James Porter {4466}, born about1809/10 in Wythe County, Virginia. This James is possibly the James that was mentioned as a grandson in the will of Andrew Porter, 22 Jun 1820 in Prince Edward County, VA.
+ 69b. ii. Samuel E. Porter {4465}, born about 1811.
69c. iii. Rebecca Porter {4463}, born about 1818 in Wythe County, Virginia. She married William Bowers {4467} 22 Aug 1833 in Grayson County, Virginia. He was born about 1813.
69d. iv Daniel Porter {6166}, born about 1819. He married Elizabeth Fry.
69e. v. Ursula Porter {6114}, born about 1820. She married Joseph Allen.
69f vi William Porter {6201}, born about 1826.
69g. vii Joseph Porter {6202}, born about 1827.
69h viii Thornberry Porter {4464}, born about 1828. He married Sarah Hill {3946} 26 Mar 1847. Thornberry died about 1880.
During the last part of 1998 and January 1999, this family was being discussed with several Porter researchers. About 1997, it was indicated to me by a Porter descendant that Allen was James Allen Porter a son or Robert H. Porter. However, the evidence and the position that several Porter researchers take the parents of Allen are not known and he is not James Allen Porter. Also, one of the researchers has added another child, Elizabeth Porter, born about 1809, to the above family. The date of birth conflicts with the birth date of James as well as the estimated date of marriage for Margaret and Allen. More research may produce the parents of Allen Porter along with the proper identification of all of his children.
25. Elizabeth “Betsy” Porter {3954}. She was the daughter of Samuel M. Porter {3851} and Ursula Sublett {3859}. She married Daniel Porter {3962}. He was born about 1788 in Virginia. The wife of Daniel had most likely died before the 1850 census was taken.
Known children of Elizabeth are:
70. i. Elizabeth Porter {4469}, born about 1824 in Virginia. She was listed on the 1850 Census for Wythe County, Virginia in the family of Daniel Porter. She is shown being born in Virginia and age 26.
71. ii. Robert Porter {4470}, born about 1827 in Virginia. He married Susan Porter {4471} 27 Feb 1845. She was born 31 Mar 1827 in Virginia. She was the daughter of Jordan Porter {3959} and Catharine Flanagan {3967}.
27. Samuel Ewing “Hutch” Porter {3956} was born 5 Jun 1799 in Wythe County, Virginia. He was the son of Samuel M. Porter {3851} and Ursula Sublett {3859}. Samuel died 29 May 1893 in Wythe County, Virginia. He is buried in the Williams Cemetery located on State Rt. 741, in Wythe County, Virginia. He married (1) Susanna Welsh {3964} 11 Feb 1820. She was born Nov 1796. She was the daughter of John Welsh {4014} and Leah Leatherman {4015}. Susanna died 6 Feb 1836 and was buried in the Williams Cemetery in Wythe County, Virginia.
Known children of Samuel and Susanna are:
+ 72. i. John Albert Porter {3989}, born 7 Jul 1822, died 21 Jul 1905.
73. ii. Amanda Jane Porter {3990}, born 2 Aug 1823. She married Thomas Jackson {4004} 5 Mar 1844. He was born 26 Sep 1805. Thomas died 21 Feb 1878 in Wythe County, Virginia. Amanda died 17 Apr 1863. Amanda and Thomas are buried in the Gregory Family Cemetery located south of Austinville, Carroll County, Virginia.
74. iii. Robert Porter {3991}, born 28 May 1825, died 25 Apr 1878. He never married.
+ 75. iv. Elizabeth Porter {3992}, born 9 Aug 1828, died 2 Jul 1881.
76. v. Jordan Porter {3993}, born 9 Mar 1830. He married Agnes M. Crockett {4006} 18 Apr 1851 in Carroll County, Virginia. She was born about 1834. She was the daughter of Francis Crockett {4129} and Margaret Cosby George {4130}. Jordan died 1 Jan 1869.
+ 77. vi. Samuel Ewing Porter, Jr. {3994}, born 26 Mar 1833, died 24 Aug 1899.
Samuel married (2) Nancy “Polly” Winskell {3995} 26 Mar 1847 in Wythe County, Virginia. She was born 6 Dec 1820 in Westmoreland County, England. Nancy died 8 Jul 1906, and was buried in Wytheville, Wythe County, Virginia. She is buried in Red Bluff Cemetery, near Porter's Crossroads with her husband. A note on an 1986 letter indicates Hutch is buried between his wives in the Williams Cemetery.
Known children of Samuel and Polly are:
+ 78. vii. William Winskell Porter {3996}, born 8 Jan 1848, died 15 Sep 1922.
79. viii. Thomas Jackson Porter {3997}, born 12 Feb 1850. He married Julie Arnold Rickey {4009} 13 Mar 1873 in Wythe County, Virginia. She was born Mar 1840. Thomas died 15 Mar 1880/1889.
80. ix. Nancy M. Porter {3998}, born 9 Jan 1852, died in childhood 5 Mar 1854. She drowned in a spring.
+ 81. x. Susannah Porter {3999}, born 11 Feb 1854, died 1938.
82. xi. Henry Alexander Wise Porter {4000}, born 8 Aug 1856. He married Sally C. Rickey {4011} 6 Apr 1890. She was born Jul 1870. Henry died 10 Feb 1945.
+ 83. xii. Orville Moore Porter {4001}, born 8 Oct 1858, died 1934.
84. xiii. Florence Bell Porter {4002}, born 31 May 1862. She married Hugh Atkin Killinger {4013} 5 Jan 1882. Florence died 5 Mar 1884 during child birth.
Samuel Ewing “Hutch” Porter was the first to discover iron ore in Wythe County, Virginia. He smelted iron ore and sold it for $65.00 a ton. He hauled it to Crockett, Virginia shipping it out on a train.
Samuel got the name “Hutch” because he had to hutch down in order to get into his toll shed at Porters Crossroads. He charged five cents to cross his land. There was not any state or county roads at that time.
28. Jane Porter {3957}. She was the daughter of Samuel M. Porter {3851} and Ursula Sublett {3859}. She married Andrew Porter {3941} 1820 in Wythe County, Virginia. He was born about 1792. He was the son of Robert H. Porter {3850} and Ann Black {3858}.
29. Ursula Porter {3958} was born about 1809 in Ivanhoe, Wythe County, Virginia. She was the daughter of Samuel M. Porter {3851} and Ursula Sublett {3859}. Ursula died in Scott County, Virginia. She married Samuel M. Welsh {3966}. He was born about 1800 in Virginia. He was the son of John Welsh {3949} and Leah Leatherman {3965}. Samuel died in Virginia.
Known child of Ursula is:
+ 85. i. Naomi Welsh {4123}, born about 1822, died about 1852.
30. Jordan Porter {3959} was born 22 Dec 1807. He was the son of Samuel M. Porter {3851} and Ursula Sublett {3859}. Jordan died 11 Feb 1860 in Carroll County, Virginia. He married Catharine Flanagan {3967} 5 Feb 1826. She was born 24 Dec 1807. Catharine died 8 May 1872.
Known children of Jordan are:
86. i. Susan Porter {4471}, born 31 Mar 1827 in Virginia. She married Robert Porter {4470} 27 Feb 1845. He was born about 1827 in Virginia. He was the son of Daniel Porter {3962} and Elizabeth Porter {3954}.
87. ii. Felix Porter {4485}, born 12 Feb 1829. He married Matilda Ann Huddle {4493} 24 Aug 1848. She was born 6 Jun 1832. Matilda died 1 Oct 1906. Felix died 19 Jun 1913. Felix and Matilda are buried in the Forest Methodist Cemetery in Ivanhoe, Virginia.
88. iii. Samuel Porter {4486}, born 25 Apr 1831, died in childhood 1 Jul 1833.
89. iv. Robert Porter {4487}, born 20 Jul 1833, died in childhood 28 Feb 1836.
90. v. John A. Porter {4488}, born 17 Sep 1836. He married Mary E. Pearman {4494} 6 Oct 1855. She was born about 1838. John died 2 Feb 1892. John and Mary are buried in the Dyer Cemetery.
91. vi. Burton Sanders Porter {4489}, born 17 Dec 1838, died 21 Sep 1861 near Manassas, Virginia.
92. vii. Eliza Jane Porter {4490}, born 21 Feb 1841 in Wythe County, Virginia. She married Nathan Dyer {4495} 29 Dec 1872. He was born about 1829.
93. viii. Harold Porter {4491}, born 20 Jul 1843. He married Melinda E. Davidson {4496} 26 Feb 1861. She was born 1843. Melinda died 20 Mar 1923. She is buried in the Alley Cemetery in Carroll County, Virginia. Harold died 1 May 1870 in Wythe County, Virginia.
94. ix. Catherine A. Porter {4492}, born 10 Jun 1846. She married F. M. Barker {4497} 29 Sep 1864. Catherine died 8 May 1872.
______________________________________________
37. Stephen Calhoun Porter {4419} was born about 1823. He was the son of Andrew Porter {3941} and Jane Porter {3957}. Stephen died 26 Jun 1910. He is buried in the Ebenezer Cemetery in Grayson County, Virginia. He married Nancy Littreal {4420}. She was born Mar 1828. Nancy died 3 Aug 1908. She is buried in the Ebenezer UMC Cemetery in Grayson county, Virginia.
Known children of Stephen are:
95. i. George W. Porter {4421}, born 5 Apr 1846. He married Leonah [———?———] {4424}. She was born 9 Apr 1843. Leonah died 9 Jan 1913. She is buried in the Ebenezer M. Cemetery in Grayson County, (Spring Valley) Virginia. George died 18 Apr 1884. He is buried in the Ebenezer M. Cemetery in Grayson County, Virginia.
96. ii. Andrew J. Porter {4422}, born about 1848. He married Elizabeth [———?———] {4425} 24 Jun 1869 in Wythe County, Virginia.
97. iii. Micajah M. Porter {4423}, born about 1852.
69b. Samuel E. Porter {4465} was born about 1811. He was the son of James Allen Porter {3961} and Margaret Porter {3953}. He married Martha Ann Bratton {4468} 19 Feb 1831 in Wythe County, Virginia. She was born about 1813.
Known children of Samuel are:
99. i. Alexander Porter {6022}, born 10 Dec 1831 in Virginia.
99. ii. Mary Porter {6023}, born 1835 in Virginia.
100. iii. Margaret Porter {6024}, born 1837 in Virginia.
101. iv. Elizabeth Porter {6025}, born 1839 in Virginia.
102. v. Thomas Porter {6026}, born 1841 in Virginia.
103. vi. Martha Porter {6027}, born 1843 in Virginia.
104. vii. Frances Porter {6028}, born 1845 in Virginia.
105. viii. Samuel Porter, Jr. {6029}, born 1847 in Virginia.
106. ix. Rebecca Porter {6030}, born 1848 in Virginia.
107. x. Sarah Porter {6031}, born about 1851 in Virginia.
108. xi. Priscilla Porter {6032}, born 20 Apr 1853 in Virginia.
72. John Albert Porter {3989} was born 7 Jul 1822. He was the son of Samuel Ewing Porter {3956} and Susanna Welsh {3964}. John died 21 Jul 1905. He married Eleanor Pearman {4003} 19 Jul 1844 in Wythe County, Virginia. She was born 4 Jan 1823. She was the daughter of James Pearman, Jr. {4406} and Jane Freeman {4407}. Eleanor died 15 Jun 1890.