Skinners in Elizabeth City County, Virginia

Family of John Skinner (c1670-1737) & Jane Smith (c1670-1737)

Compiled by Bob Skinner

N.B. I’m still in the process of updating this document which is something of a mishmash of several documents dating back into the 1990s.

John Skinner was born, probably in Virginia, about 1670 (1) and died in Elizabeth City County, Virginia by 15 February 1738. He married on 21 December 1697 Jane Smith. She died in early 1737, not long before her husband. (2) Jane’s parents are unknown. (3)

According to one secondary source that I have misplaced, on 4 Oct 1697, a James Skinner married a Jane Smith. This is presumably an error as there is no marriage entry for 4 October 1697 or records for a James Skinner in any other contemporary Elizabeth City County, Virginia source including Rosemary Neal’s transcription of the records.

JOHN’S FATHER

The parentage of John is unproved. It is unknown whether he was born in this country or came over from England as a child. George A. Holleman (4) believed John’s parents were Henry Skinner and Dorothy Shore and his grandparents were Edward Skinner and Margaret Brewer. Unfortunately, Holleman did not cite his sources and other researchers believe that Margaret Brewer married Arthur Skinner, not Edward. Either way, no documentation has been found as to any of Edward or Arthur’s children. (5)

In the 17th and early 18th centuries there are records related to perhaps three different Henry Skinners in the nearby counties of Isle of Wight, Lower Norfolk and Nansemond, respectively, but no documentation has been found linking any of these with Dorothy or John.

JOHN’S MOTHER

There is a better case for John’s mother being Dorothy Sheare (I do not know why Holleman thought the last name was Shore). A 10 September 1692 Elizabeth City County Orphan's court ordered “that John Skynner being now at age shall receive of his mother Dorothy Sheare all his cattle.” If Dorothy is John’s mother then presumably after her husband died, she married a man named Sheare or Sheares. Of course, it isn’t certain that the orphan is the John Skinner who married Jane Smith. If his mother was Dorothy, I would have expected John to have named one of his daughters after her which he did not (although this could have been a daughter that died and is unknown to us). (6)

During this era, children whose fathers died were called orphans or orphants even if the mother was still alive. In Tidewater Virginia during the 17th century, more than 75 percent of children lost at least one parent before reaching eighteen. “High mortality rates produced a curious mixing of generations and relatives. Marriages did not usually last more than a decade before either the husband or the wife died…The survivor usually immediately remarried and often to a parent with several children…Orphans were counted in the thousands.”

JANE’S PARENTS

Jane’s parents are unknown and it is possible that she, too, was an orphan. Intriguingly, at the same 1692 Orphan’s court involving John, it was recorded that “Jane Smith, orphan, now at age, prays for estate

division. Granted that Joseph White, her father-in-law [i.e.,step father], make payment.” (7) It is tempting to speculate that this is the Jane Smith who would marry John five years later.

JOHN & JANE’S LIFE

We know little about John between his coming of age and marriage to Jane in 1697. Seven years later, the 1704 tax roll lists him as owning 50 acres. John’s will implies that the land originally belonged to his wife Jane. There are some interesting aspects of this land that may be of genealogical import. A 1737 indenture between Charles Jennings Jr. and Mark Parrish indicates that a John Skinner owned land around Saltford’s Creek and the property of Joseh Jeggits, Col. Digg, and [Edward?] Prince. If Saltford’s Creek is the same as Salters Creek, it is in present day Hampton City.

Perhaps 2500 people lived in Elizabeth City County at the dawn of the 18th century of which 116 were enumerated in the 1704 tax roll. The only other listed Skinner was Samuel Skinner, son of Thomas and Elizabeth Daniel Skinner.

John was presumably a farmer and there are a number of extant documents reflecting business activities until his death. These would have been conducted at the first County Court House which was near the site of the earliest church at the head of John’s Creek. Here is John Skinner’s mark from his 1737 will:

JOHN & JANE’S DEATH

John lived to be almost 70, considerably beyond the average life expectancy of 40 for his time.

Jane, too, outlived most of her contemporaries and bore eight children we know of in contrast to the average of three. When she died in 1737, Henry Skinner asked the Court not to prove his mother’s will without his (or the other heirs?) knowledge. It is unknown why he requested the caveat. Perhaps it was because his father was ill and Henry, living in the adjacent Nansemond County, was not in regular contact with the rest of the family. Jane’s will has not survived except the part that is referenced in her husband’s will. It is possible that Jane inherited land from one or both of her parents. John’s 1737 will states “Whereas my wife Jane did [dec’d?] by my consent give by her last will and testament the land whereon I now live to her son Thomas Skinner which I now give and confirm [?] to land [?] for Thomas and his heirs forever.”

An inventory plus supplement of John’s estate has survived and his will also enumerates a few specific possessions. (8) John and Jane owned a dozen or so head of livestock, two beds, one feather—most people at this time “slept on bedrolls or wrapped themselves in blankets —and enough furniture to divide between two daughters. Homes were meagerly outfitted by today’s standards.

1737 was not a good year for Elizabeth City and certainly not for the Skinner family. In this family, those who died include John and his wife Jane, most likely John Jr., and perhaps Charles. In the family of the “other” Skinners, Thomas and Elizabeth, their eldest son Samuel died that summer and a younger son Darby in 1738.

JOHN & JANE’S CHILDREN

John and Jane Smith Skinner were parents of eight children according to John’s will, all of whom were presumably born in Elizabeth City County, Virginia. Children are listed in the order they occur in the will. Birth dates are conjectural. Please see the second half o this document for more information on these children.

i. Rebecca Skinner, born 1698/1700, died before 18 May 1743. She married Robert Cross.ii. Elizabeth Skinner, born about 1700, died 1790 in Surry County, VA. She married Thomas Wilson.iii. Thomas Skinner, born about 1702, died 1776 in Elizabeth City County, VA. He married Rebecca Howardiv. William Skinner, born by 1704v. Charles Skinner, born about 1706; died before 1737 presumably in Elizabeth City County, VA. He married Ursula Berry.vi. John Skinner, Born About 1708, died in 1737 in Elizabeth City County, VA.vii. Henry Skinner, born about 1710, died after 1737, presumably in Nansemond County, VAviii. Nicholas Skinner, born about 1712, died after 1737

NOTES(1) John was 21 by 1692 according to an Orphan’s Court petition.

(2) John’s will indicates that Jane also left a will but I have not been able to locate it.

(3) Not surprisingly, there were a number of Smiths in Elizabeth City who could be Jane’s parents. Several Smiths and Skinners do occur in the same record: William Smith (Symthe) witnessed the 1693 Dec 14 Will of William Jarvis that acquits Jn. Skinner and Jeremiah Smith, et al, of what they owe him. [Deed Book 1689-99, p. 152(66)] A William Smith’s will was probated 13 December 1693. Since he left his entire estate to Ann Wythe, William is presumably not the father of Jane. Another William Smith witnessed the will of William Jarvis which was proved 19 February 1693/4. When did he sign the will? Jarvis names “my dear and loving friends William Bowles and Joseph White” as executors. Perhaps this William Skinner was the father of Jane whose step-father was Joseph White. Can only be the case if Smith signed Jarvis’ will by 1692. In the same record compensating Jno. Skinner digging grave of Jno. Hill, Jno. Smith receives “a bottle of rum and a pound of sugar for inventory taking.” Finally, according to a 1740 deed between Henry Skinner and William Williams, early in the 18th century a Henry Smith bought land on Hampton Roads from Bartholomew Dameron of Northumberland County. This land was sold by Smith to Henry Skinner but it is unclear if this is anything besides coincidence.

(4) George A. Holleman's The Hollyman Family: a genealogical and historical record of the descendants of Christopher Hollyman of Isle of Wight County, Virginia, 1691, and related families. Citation supplied by Tim Mangham in letter dated 4 August 1995. Published in SKU 12(4)87, E95.0729.109

(5) On page 138 of Mary Brewer Gamble's article "The Arms of Brewer" (Treesearcher: 1969 v,11, p.135-138) she writes “Margaret (Brewer) Skynner was probably the wife of Arthur Skynner/Skinner as shown by this deed: Arthur Skinner sells the plantation where Skinner lives, being one-half of 500 acres formerly in tenure of Thomas Butler and Anthony Holliday...granted by John Neville and wife Elizabeth to Arthur Skinner. 8 February 1671. [cf 17th Century Isle of Wight County Virginia by John Bennett Bodie (pp 403-408; 563).] Howard Skinner's book (page 454) has additional information on Arthur Skinner from a letter sent by Mrs. Leo Blades: “William Neville was the first of his family in Virginia. His land was located on the borders of Isle of Wight and Nansemond. [The May 16, 1665 deed]… refers to John Neville of Nansemond and wife Elizabeth selling to Arthur Skinner 125 acres in Isle of Wight formerly patented by John Neville. William Neville had two sons, Roger and John Neville. Roger was evidently the eldest son and heir. Arthur Skinner, his father-in-law had married the widow of William Neville. The phrase "father-in-law" was not in common use at that time. On 8 February 1671 Arthur Skinner sold the 125 acres bought of John Neville and wife Elizabeth on 21 February 1684. John Neville, with William Godwin, appraised the estate of John Gardner. (These Nevilles moved to Edgecombe Co NC, probably to Rowan Co, NC then some into Natchez, before 1800. [Mrs. Blade's] grandmother was a Neville and most of her ancestors came from around Culpeper and Nansemond County Virginia.)”

An Edward Skinner is named in several Isle of Wight records during the period between 1652 and 1654. There is no indication of a wife or children.

Of the Henry Skinner who lived in Isle of Wight, a 1664 Dec 23 deed records that John Nosworthy leases 100 acres (land called "Long Pond") to Henry Skynner to plant one orchard of 160 trees, the trees to be "all Apple trees and pare trees," the tyme for their planting to be within 2 years after the date hereof, &c. 1664. Test' George Nosworthy, Bryan Knowles. [Isle of Wight Co. Records as abstracted in Virginia Land Records Pt. 1] In Lower Norfolk County, 1665, Sep 27 1 of 6 headrights of Richard Bachelor, Low. Norf. Co., page 452 (546) [Cavaliers and Pioneers, vol. 1, 1623-1666, page 540] [Passenger and Immigration Lists: 1982-85 Cumulation, source 6220, page 540] On 1698 Sep 15 in Lower Norfolk County, Henry Skyner/Skynner witness for will of Thomas Cording. Other witnesses are Wm Southerland (1699 Sep 15) and Tho. Hoffler.(Deed 6, p. 162). He cannot be Dorothy’s husband because he was still alive after John came of age in 1692. Finally, in Nansemond County, Henry Skinner, dec'd, is mentioned as having land adjacent to that bequeathed for the Poor of the Parish, Lower Parish of Nansemond Co. [Patent Book No. 9 as abstracted in Cavaliers and Pioneers, 1695-1732] If he died in 1695 or after, presumably this Henry is not the father of John. If before 1692, he might be. VERIFY THIS DATE.

(6) There are not many Shores/Sheare/Sheares in 17th century Virginia. A 9 June 1666 Isle of Wight indenture between George Hardy and Francis England mentions land sold by England to Wm Sheares and after by Sheares to Richard Jackson. In the indenture, Sheares is also spelled Shearers.

[I can’t identify in my notes what the following were in reference to! Fisher. Polk, page 61]

(7) 1692 September 10. Orphans Court. Page 3. Joseph White’s name occurs many times in the Elizabeth City County records.

(8) The main inventory consists of: 2 cows & 1 heffer, 2 other cows, 3 young …, 2 mares, 1 … head of hoggs, 2 sows, 2 cows, 1 lamb and 1 stack of fodder, 8 barrels of corn, 1 cart & wheel, a parcel of casks, 1 harrow haines & irish gig, 1 grindstone and 1 …, …, … old pewter & a … of spoons, … bottles….old, …& a half bushel…, …& a pot of Fat, a parcel of Earthenware, …Yoke … one spade, …dry’d Meat, 3 … of salt and 1/2 barrel …, …. & 2 old boxes and 1 table, a parcel of lumber, … silver buttons 1 looking glass, …., …. 2 old … & l table, … of leather, 3 green hides & … of old iron, …. Forks, 1 set of …, 1 bible & psalter …, 6 knives & 5 [hoes?], 4…of old roap & [bell/belt?], 2 frying pans with some other …, 1 wheel barrow with a … 1 iron wedge 1 hoe, a … of old chains, 2 bags, 2 … & a drinking …, 1 pail 1 can …, 1 iron pot 1 …, 1 iron pot with …., 1 iron wedge 1 hoe, a … [Bees/Beer?], The service of A[?] Turner 3 years valu’d [to/at?], One pair of …, 1 horse at …, Beds & furniture at …, 1 bed & furniture at …. Elizabeth City Court records, 18 March 1737, p. Polk, p.58

SOURCES: Some of these sources may belong to John’s son John (those after around 1730) or the Jonathan who was the son of Thomas and Elizabeth Daniel Skinner (after around 1704).

[L] 1692 Sep 10. At an Orphans Court on this date, it was ruled “that John Skynner being now at age shall receive of his mother Dorothy Sheare all his cattle.” Orphans Court. Page 3.

[L] 1693 Dec 14 Will of William Jarvis. See Note 3.

[L] 1693/4 Feb 19 At a Court held on that date, "James Omeney ordered to pay 40 lbs tobacco to John Skinner for one day's attendance as an evidence for him agt Joseph White." [Page 30]

[L] 1693 Dec 14 Will of William Jarvis. See Note 3.

[L]1693/4 Feb 19 At a Court held on that date, "James Omeney ordered to pay 40 lbs tobacco to John Skinner for one day's attendance as an evidence for him agt Joseph White." [Page 30]

[L] 1693/4 Mar 26. Wages for digging the grave of Jno. Hill. [Deed Book, p185(100)]. A Jno. Smith is also listed.

[L] 1694 Nov 19. At a court held on that date, John Skinner registered his Marke for Cattle and Hoggs Vizt. Two slitts on ye right eare, one slitt under [fold?] in ye left ear. Recorded 6 Jan 1694/5. [1684-1699 Estate Records. LDS Microfilm 0031120.

[L] 1696 Aug 18. At a court held on that date, Augustine Moore complains that Tho. Skiner and John Skinner had been summoned to serve on a Jury of Inquest and failed to appear. The Sheriff is ordered to summon them to answer for such contempt. [p.100] My first thought was that this could belong to the John Skinner who was son of Thomas Skinner, but he could not have been of age if Thomas and Elizabeth were married about 1684. So it may be a coincidence--two unrelated persons with the same surname--or, intriguingly, suggestive that Thomas was John’s brother or other relative. I can't believe though that with as many records that have survived for both families that there wouldn't be other examples.

[V] 1697 Dec 4. License granted to John Skinner and Jane Smith. [Deeds, Wills, Etc., p168(83)].

[V] 1697 Dec 21. Married Jane Smith, 21 December 1697, Elizabeth City, VA. Need citation.

[L] 1699 Nov 21 John Skinner's petition for the freedom of Eliza. Farrow is referred to next Court. [page

160]. Who is Elizabeth Farrow? What happened with this case?

[C] 1704. Jno. Skinner was listed as owning 50 acres in "A true and perfect rent roll of the land in Elizabeth City Co." for the year 1704 [Louis des Cognets, Jr. English duplicates of lost Virginia records, page 182]

[L] 1714 May 11 A John Skinner was appraiser for estate of John Lettitts (Jegits?).

[L] 1717 May 11 Witnesses will of William Bowtell. Refers to land at Fox Hill, daughter Sarah. [Elizabeth City Deeds, Wills, Inventories p. 72]. The Boutwell related entries probably related to the John who was son of Thomas and Elizabeth as several of the other names only occur with this family.

[L] 1717 May 16 At Court held on that date, gives oath as to intentions of Wm. Boutwil. [p.70].

[L] 1718 May ?. John Skinner one of four men ordered to appraise estate of Tho. Casey. [p. 102]

[L] 1718 May 30 Appraiser for estate of Tho. Casy. [Elizabeth City Deeds, Wills, Inventories p. 122,123].

[L] 1718 May 21 At Court held on that date, John Skinner was authorized to appraise estate of Tho. Casy along with John Jeggets. [p.102].

[L] 1718 Sep 18 At a Court held on that date, John Skinner was granted time to answer suit of Jno. King seeking 40 pounds for a broken "Covnt." [p.120].

[L] 1718/19 Jan 22 "Judgmt by Nihill Dicet granted agt John Skinner to answer the suit of John King Gent in an action of Covenant Broken damage 40 pounds." [p.129].

[L] 1720 July Jno. Skinner received the balance of his account 0-3-0 from the estate of Andr. Thomson [Elizabeth City Deeds, Wills, Inventories p.263-4]

[L] 1722. Thomas [Umphries?]. Thomas Hawkins and John Skinner appointed to appraise estate of John Jiggits [Jeggits] dec’d. P. 106

[L] 1722 Aug 15. Appraisement of estate of John Jigetts. Order Book #10 1721-23, p. 67. His mark is the same as on his 1737 will.

[L]1731 June 16 In the action upon the case between John Skinner and J[?] Jones deft, the deft appeared and pleaded [?] upon which [?] is joined. Elizabeth City County, VA Order Book 1731-1747, p. 2.

[L] 1731/32 Feb 16. Case between John Skinner and [?] Jones dismissed by consent. Elizabeth City County, VA Order Book 1731-1747, p. 19.

[L] 1733 Jun 24. Ordered that John Skinner be summoned to answer the complaint of John Turner, his servant. Elizabeth City County, VA Order Book 1731-1747, p. 59. Several earlier records relate to a John Turner of Ireland who may or may not be the same person. For example, see Order Book #10 1721-23, p. 104-5.

[L] 1733 Jul 18. The petition of John Turner against John Skinner is dismissed. Turner was a servant of John Skinner. Elizabeth City County, VA Order Book 1731-1747, p. 61.

[L] 1733 July 17. John Skinner is appointed overseer of road. Elizabeth City County, VA Order Book 1731-1747, p. 81.

[L] 1733 Nov 2. Action between John Skinner and Dixon Brown, neither party appearing, is dismissed. Elizabeth City County, VA 1731-1747, p. 86.

[L]1734 May 2. Matthew [Williams?] appointed guardian of the road in the room of [John? Joseph?]

Skinner. Elizabeth City County, VA 1731-1747, p. 93.

[L] 1735 Dec 17. Case between Thomas Hatton and John Skinner: Skinners attorney’s petition is granted. Elizabeth City County, VA 1731-1747, p. 102.

[L] 1735 Dec 17. Case between Thomas Hatton and John Skinner is continued. Elizabeth City County, VA 1731-1747, p. 105.

[L] 1735/6 Feb 17. In the action between Thomas Hatton plaintiff and John Skinner defendant, the plaintiff not appearing, defendant to receive [recover?] 5 shillings. Elizabeth City County, VA Order Book 1731-1747, p. 107.

[L] 1736 May 19. In the action between Thomas Hatton plaintiff and John Skinner defendant, the plaintiff not appearing, defendant to receive [recover?] 5 shillings. Elizabeth City County, VA Order Book 1731-1747, p. 114.

[L] 1736 Jul 2. From the land which he has purchased of John Skinner of church wardens, it is ordered that Anthony Tucker, John Moor[e] and John Massenburgh do [?] road from the said road on Monday noon. Elizabeth City County, VA 1731-1747, p. 119.

[L] 1736 May 19. Case dismissed? between Thomas [?] and Jno. Skinner, the plaintiff not appearing. Elizabeth City County, VA 1731-1747, p. 114.

[L] 1736/7 Jan 19. John Skinner is a member of the jury in the case of Mary Bordland vs. William King. Elizabeth City County, VA 1731-1747, p. 127.

[L] 1736/7 Feb 16. The case between John Skinner plaintiff and John King defendant is dismissed, the plaintiff being dead. Elizabeth City County VA 1731-1747. p.132. The dates don’t make sense.

[W] 1737 April 14. Will signed.In the name of God amen. I John Skinner of Elizabeth City County being in perfect health and memory and calling to mind the uncertainty of this life do make and ordain this my last will and testament in [sacred and form] following: First I give and bequeath my soul to Almighty God that…of a joyful… and my body to the Earth to the…survived at the direction of my Executors hereafter named:Item I give to my daughter Roberta Cross one bed and furniture –Item I give to Elizabeth Wilson my daughter one feather bed and furniture –Item Whereas my wife Jane did by my consent give by her last will and testament the land whereon I now live to her son Thomas Skinner which I now give and confirm [the said] land…my wife said son Thomas and his heirs for ever –Item I give to Thomas Skinner my mill horse, bridle and saddle and all my… –Item I give to my daughter-in-law Hursly Berry – formerly wife to my son Charles Skinner—one shilling to be in full of her late husband’s share of my Estate—Item I give to my sons William, John, Henry, Nicholas and Thomas Skinner and to my grandson Charles Skinner and to my daughter-in-laws Roberta Cross and Elizabeth Wilson all the rest of my estate not before giving away to be equally divided amongst…my Negro man Will which I give to my Son Thomas Skinner.Lastly I nominate and appoint this to be my last will and testament revoking and disannulling all former wills by me made and do appoint, constitute and ordain my Sons in law Robert Cross and Thomas Wilson to be my whole and sole Executors of this my last will and testament. In witness of whereof I have here unto let my hand and seal this 14th day of April 1737.[ ] the word [ ] his hand [ ] before signing and [sealing? Recording?] –hisJohn SkinnermarkSigned sealed and delivered in the presence ofCharles JenningsJoseph Jegitts

[W] 1737 May 12. The will of [Jane?] Skinner being [log’d?] in court, it is ordered that the [heir at law?] Henry Skinner be summ’d to know if he [hath?] any objection to the proving thereof. Elizabeth City County VA Order Book, 1731-1747, p. 138

[W] 1737 Sep 22. Upon a [caveat?] brought by Henry Skinner against the proving the will of Jane Skinner, dec’d, John Skinner being [called?] and not appearing, it is ordered that the said will be not admitted [to? be?] proved hereafter without giving the [heir?] notice thereof. Elizabeth City County, VA Order Book 1731-1747, p. 151

[W] 1737 Sep 22. Ordered that John Skinner [Senior] be summoned as next of kin to administer the estate of John Skinner, Jr. Elizabeth City County VA Order Book, 1731-1747, p. 150

[W] 1737/8 Feb 15. Robert Cross and Thomas Wilson Jr, came into Court and made oath to the last will and testament of John Skinner. Elizabeth City County, VA Order Book 1731-1747, p. 165.

[W] 1737/8 Feb 15. John Moor[e], John Howard, Thos [?] and Joseph Jeggets, or any three of these, appointed to appraise estate of John Skinner. Elizabeth City County, VA Order Book 1731-1747, p. 165.

[W] 1737/38 March 16. Appraisement of estate of John Skinner, deceased. Elizabeth City County VA 1731-1747, p. 172.

[W] 1737/38 March 18. Inventory.

REFERENCES:

Bowden, pp 32-33HGS p. 001

i. Rebecca Skinner (c1698-c1743)

Rebecca Skinner was a daughter of John Skinner and Mary Smith. She was born, probably, in Elizabeth City County, Virginia, between 1698 and 1700 and died in Elizabeth City County, Virginia. Her will was dated 15 May 1745 and recorded 19 June 1745. She married Robert Cross whose will was written February 1742/43 and recorded 18 May 1743.

Rebecca was a legacy in her father, John Skinner's, will as Daughter, Rebecca Cross.

Robert Cross was a legacy in his father in law, John Skinner's will, as Son in Law, Robert Cross. He was a farmer. His estate was valued at 96-0-2, slightly more than half of which was one male and one female slave valued at 25 pounds each.

Although there is no known relationship, a James Chappell before traveling to North Carolina wrote a will in 1739 that left his estate to Robert and three of the children.

After Rebecca’s death in 1745, Thomas Wilson, her sister Elizabeth’s husband, became guardian of Edward, presumably the one child who was still not of age. (Robert’s will indicates that Edward was not yet 21 years of age in 1743.)

Rebecca Skinner Cross and Robert Cross had the following children according to Robert’s will. All of the children except for Edward were born by 1722:

i. John Cross. He died in early 1743 at about the same time as his father.ii. Ann Crossiii. William Cross. Died after 1776. He is listed in the 23 August 1765 Poll for the Election of Burgesses in

Elizabeth City County.iv. Elizabeth Crossv. Edward Cross. Born after 1730, died after 1747. Thomas Wilson became Edward’s guardian after the death of his mother in 1745.

NotesRebecca Skinner Cross’s executor was Thomas Wilson. Book 1737-49, page 196.

Robert Cross’s will leaves all of his crops to his family, a third of the estate to his wife, and the remainder to their children. Rebecca was executor. Thomas Wilson, husband of Elizabeth Skinner Wilson, was a witness. Page 166.

1739 Feb 28. Elizabeth City Co, VA Will written by James Chappell before traveling to North Carolina. To: John Cross, Anne Cross, Elizabeth Cross, livestock and personality. To: Robert Cross, balance of estate. Exec. none. Wit: Robert Tucker, Vialello Webb.

In his will dated 16 February 1742 (recorded 18 May 1743) John leaves his Mother “negro Tom” for her life and then to her brother, Edward. Probation granted Rebecca Cross. Thomas Wilson was security. Book 1737-49, page 166.

Sources:

[W] 1747 Several dates. Inventory of 14 items such as clothes and school supplies of Edward Cross, orphan. Thomas Wilson was his guardian. His legacy includes a legacy left of his father (20-0-0), his part of the estate of his father and mother, both deceased (4-15-?), his part of the Negro slave Tom (14-12-0), cash from his brother William Cross for the over [plus?] of the slave Patt (10-0-0), total 49-7-11 less 2 pounds expenses. LDS Microfilm 31126, Elizabeth City County, VA 1737-1748.

[L] 1731. [Feb 16?] Court case of Robert Cross versus ?. Elizabeth City County, VA Order Book 1731-1747, p. 19.

[L] 1735 Jan 2. Robert Cross, Richard Hawkins, John Hawkins, and John Moor or any 3 ordered to appraise the estate of Wm Spicer, deceased. Elizabeth City County, VA 1731-1747, p. 105

[L] 1740 Nov 19. Robert Cross made oath as to the will of James Chapple. P. 94

[W] Will of Robert Cross. p. 166

[W] Inventory of the estate of Robert Cross. p. 175

[W] 1745 June 19. Inventory and appraisment of estate of Rebecca Cross. p. 196

[W] 1745 June 19. Debts of estate of Robert Cross dec’d to Rebecca Cross. p. 197

[W] 1747 Several dates. Inventory of 14 items such as clothes and school supplies of Edward Cross, orphan. Thomas Wilson was his guardian. His legacy includes a legacy left of your father (20-0-0), his part of the estate of his father and mother, both deceased (4-15-?), his part of the Negro slave Tom (14-12-0), cash from his brother William Cross for the over [plus?] of the slave Patt (10-0-0), total 49-7-11 less 2 pounds expenses. LDS Microfilm 31126, Elizabeth City County, VA 1737-1748

No records obviously related to this family have been found in Elizabeth City County after 1747.

References:HGS p. 002

ii. Elizabeth Skinner (c1700-1790?)

Elizabeth Skinner was born perhaps about 1700 in Elizabeth City County, VA and, according to Holleman, died in Surry County, Virginia in 1790. Elizabeth married Thomas Wilson who was born in 1699 and died in 1768. Although I have been unable to verify her parents, according to Holleman, Thomas was the son of James Wilson and Honor Goodrich. His 1721 will identifies a Francis Skinner as his daughter[-in-law] and so presumably was the wife of one of his sons. Elizabeth was a legacy in her father, John Skinner's will as Daughter, Elizabeth Wilson. Her husband was a legacy in John Skinner's will as son-in law Thomas Wilson.

Although I don’t have any documentation, some of this family may have moved to Surry County, Virginia after 1740 (perhaps after 1754). Elizabeth received from her husband’s will the whole estate until her death. In addition to land, his estate included a cider still, hand mill stones, livestock, and slaves.

Elizabeth and Thomas had the following children according to Thomas’s will. All were of age by 1761 and thus were born by 1740. A John, John, Jr., Willis, and William Wilson are listed in the 1790 Elizabeth City County Personal Tax List.

i. Thomas Wilson. ii. John Wilson. iii. Ann Wilson. She died about 1791. iv. William Wilson. He died before 1787. v. James Wilson. vi. Nicholas Wilson vii. Elizabeth Wilson. She married Joseph Holleman. He was born 1720, died 1786 in Surry County, Virginia. viii. Whitfield Wilson ix. Mary Wilson. She married ___ Inman?

Sources:

[W] 1761 May 21. Will of Thomas Wilson, Surry County, VA. Recorded 19 April 1768. 1754-68, Part 2, p. 493. References: George A Holleman; Tina Keene Peddie. The Hollyman family (1989).

NotesJames Wilson Sr died after 10 Nov 1720 in Isle of Wight, Virginia. He married Honor Goodrich in Isle of Wight, Virginia. James and Honor had the following children: William Wilson was born in Isle of Wight, Virginia; George Wilson died after 20 Feb 1758; John Wilson was born in Isle of Wight, Virginia; James Wilson Jr was born in Isle of Wight, Virginia; Goodrich Wilson was born in Isle of Wight, Virginia. He died after 5 Apr 1742 in Isle of Wight, Virginia.; Joseph Wilson was born in Isle of Wight, Virginia; Samuel Wilson; Benjamin Wilson was born in,Isle of Wight, Virginia. Honor Goodrich was born in Isle of Wight, Virginia. She died after 6 Nov 1760 in Isle of Wight, Virginia. Her grandparents were John Goodrich Sr was born 1616. He died 1698 in Isle of Wight, Virginia. John married Joan and later Rebecca Flake. Honor’s father was John and Joan’s son, John Goodrich. Capt Goodrich was born 1652 and died 1696. He married Anne Bechinoe on 1673 in Isle of Wight, Virginia. They had the following children: Elizabeth Goodrich died before 23 May 1737; Constance Goodrich died before 7 Feb 1750; Honor Goodrich died after 6 Nov 1760; George Goodrich died before 27 Feb 1721; John Goodrich III died after 6 Feb 1746/1747; Mary Goodrich was born in Isle of Wight, Virginia. Honor married James Wilson Sr in Isle of Wight, Virginia. She later married Thomas Pierce.

Thomas Wilson’s will is recorded in Surry County, 1754-68, Part 2, page 493.

Ann’s will was written 13 March 1786 and recorded in 1791. Her legatees were granddaughters Elizabeth and Martha Bean, grandsons John and James Bean. John Skinner was executor and witness. John Bean was

qualified. John Skinner, Jr. was an appraiser. Book 1787-1800, Elizabeth City County, Virginia. This family is covered in George A. Holleman’s The Holleman Family.

[D] 1748 Jan 8 indenture between Charles White and his wife Anne and Thomas Wilson. If this is the same Thomas Wilson, then he was presumably born by 1727.

Notes:

iii. Thomas Skinner (c1706-1776)

Thomas Skinner was born by 1706 in Elizabeth City County, Virginia and died in 1776 in Elizabeth City Co., Virginia. He married Rebecca Howard, daughter of John Howard. (1) She died after 1776.

Thomas and Rebecca lived at “Fox Hill” on a plantation bought from James Baker. Fox Hill is located at the Northeastern most part of Elizabeth City County (see map) and is first mentioned in deeds as early as 1625.

In 1755, Rebecca received from her father [an additional?] 30 acres that was adjacent to the land of William Morehead that had originally belonged to Joseph Jeggitts. Thomas’ mother, Jane Smith Skinner, left (50 acres?) of land to become his after his father John’s death. It is unknown when Thomas disposed of this land but it is not mentioned in his will. It is possible that it was sold or otherwise acquired by Thomas’ brother, Henry Skinner (see his entry).

Thomas and Rebecca had the following children:

i. Frankey Skinner. She died after 1776. ii. Thomas Skinner. He married Fanny Bains/Banes, daughter of Henry Baines. She was a witness to Thomas’s will. iii. John Skinner. He was born about 1740 and died 1799/1800. iv. Mary Skinner. She was not married as of 1776. v. Margaret Skinner. She married Peneul Sanders. Died after 1796. 15 vi. Howard Skinner. He was born about 1755 and died after 1776. He married Martha.

Notes:

(1) 1755 Jul 17. Will of John Howard mentions daughter Rebacker Skinner [wife of Thomas] land adjoining William Morehead, reversion to Howard Skinner [son?]. Also mentions several allied? families including Banes. Order Book 1755-60, p.135. 1755, 17 July. John Howard devised a 30-acre tract to his daughter, Rebecca Skinner, for life, with remainder to Howard Skinner. The land was on the west of the land that once belonged to Joseph Jeggitts who owned a tract of 50 acres of land, forming the eastern portion of what was later the John Parrish farm. This land was conveyed on 3 January 1770 by Howard Skinner and his wife Martha to William Morehead. Eventually the land was acquired by William Hatton. A 25 May 1818 deed states that one corner of the land is near the property of John Skinner. See the Virginia Tidewater Genealogy Quarterly, September 1993, page 116. “Slaves for Hire: The Allocation of Black Labor in Elizabeth City County, Virginia, 1782 to 1810.” Sarah S. Hughes. The William and Mary Quarterly > 3rd Ser., Vol. 35, No. 2 (Apr., 1978), pp. 260-286 1799 March 21. Will dated, Book 34, page 287, Elizabeth City County, Virginia. 1776 July 10.

References: HGS p. 003

Sources:

[L] 1734 Sep 17. John Howard et al ordered to appraise estate of [Charles?] Davis. Elizabeth City County VA 1731-47, p. 98.

[L] 1758 Feb 19. Thomas Skinner witnesses will of Henry Banes along with Ezekiah Smith and Mark Parrish. Book 1758-64, p. 6. .

[C] 1758 Jul 11. Thomas Skinner listed in a Poll for the Election of Burgesses for the County of Elizabeth City.

[C] 1765 Aug 23. Thomas Skinner listed in a Poll for the Election of Burgesses for the County of Elizabeth City.

[L] 1766 Feb 19. Thomas Skinner appraiser of estate of Henry Baines along with Richard Burt and William Loyall. Book 1763-71, p. 99

[L] 1768 Jul 29. Thomas Skinner member of jury in case of Mitchell vs. Curles Adm[inistrator?]

[L] 1768 Jul 29. Thomas Skinner member of jury in case of Cooper vs. Cooper?

[L] 1768 Jul 29. Thomas Skinner member of jury in case of Wooten vs. Curle.

[L] 1768, August 25. Thomas Skinner’s action [account?] notes that this last should be read: To Margaret Saunders after the death of Penuel Saunders] Exrs. My wife and John Skinner. Dated May 23, 1776.Wooten Sr., Thomas Wooten, Jr. Account of the estate

[W] 1776, 25 Oct Wit. Henry Howard Mingham, John Powell, Fanny Baines Skinner. John Skinner protested the filing of the will. His security, Thomas 1776: paid to Abia Clay, the husband of Sally Skinner, the amount of property delivered to Thomas Skinner as her Guardian; paid to William Powell, an orphan. Examined by John Hunter, Miles King and Robert Brough. Signed John King. Ex. Recorded 23 June 1791 (Book 1787/1800, page 31).] against Wm Powell orphan was ex[ecuted?] and recorded. P.581.

[L] 1768 Sep 23. Thomas Skinner allowed? 10 days attendance as a witness for Bayles vs. Wooten

[L] 1768 Nov 24. Thomas Skinner member of Grand Jury.

[W] 1776, 23 May. Thomas died, left will: Page 220: Will of Thomas Skinner, to my wife the Plantation bought of Mr. James Baker; to daughter Franky, son Thomas, My plantation at "Fox Hill" to be equally divided between son John, Son Thomas, and daughter Mary Skinner. After death Penuel Saunders; to daughter Margaret Saunders. [HGS]

THIRD GENERATION DESCENDANTS OF THOMAS SKINNERi. Frankey Skinner (daughter of Thomas) was born in Elizabeth City County Virginia. She died after 1776. It is unknown if Frankey married. Frankey was a legacy in her Father’s will. After her Mother’s death she was to receive use of the Fox Hill Plantation and its timber, “negro Else,” and a bed.

ii. Thomas Skinner (son of Thomas) was born in Elizabeth City County Virginia. He died in 1791. He married Fanny Bains/Banes. She may be the Fanny Baines mentioned in the settlement of the estate of Francis Pool, Elizabeth City County Deeds and Wills, Book 12, 381-382:

“For six years near the end of the eighteenth century Fanny Baines hired Jacob, an adult slave, to help her operate the 40-acre form that she rented in Elizabeth City County, Virginia. In most of these years she paid at least twice as much for Jacob’s services as she did for the land. She grew no tobacco, but the corn and beef raised on the farm were evidently profitable enough to allow her to continue to pay cash rent for both land and labor. The experience of Fanny Baines and Jacob was not unusual, for such hiring was integral to the labor system and the institution of slavery in the county between 1782 and 1810. 12. John Skinner (son

of Thomas ) was born about 1740 in Elizabeth City County Virginia. He died 1799/1800. It is unknown if he married. John protested the filing of his Father’s will.

iii. John Skinner

He was born about 1740 and died 1799/1800.

Sources:

The following record may belong to this John:

1768 Aug 25. Philip Mallory vs. Thomas Bayles Jr.? and John Skinner. Warrant? Of the Peace. It is ordered that the said defendants give security for their good behavior to keep the peace to all his majesty’s liege? People, especially the said Phillip Mallory, the said Bailey for the [period?] of twelve months in £50 and his security in £25 each whereupon James Bullock and Thomas Wooten acknowledge “recognizing? [?] for said Bayles and Skinner with Thomas Skinner and Edward? [?[ in the same penalty above acknowledged by the … . Microfilm 31127, p.581

iv. Mary Skinner (daughter of Thomas ) was born in Elizabeth City County Virginia. She died after 1776. It is unknown if Mary married. Mary witnessed Penuel Sands’ will. Sands was the husband of Mary’s sister Margaret.

v. Margaret Skinner (Thomas II JohnI ) was born in Elizabeth City County Virginia. She died after 1776. Margaret married Peneul Sands. He died about 1776 . After Penuel’s death, Margaret received use of household goods, cash crops, and livestock during her widowhood.

Margaret and Penuel Sands had the following children (listed in the order they occur in his will):

i. Sarah ii. William iii. Penuel iv. John Skinner [Sands] v. Thomas Sands

Sources:

1776, Jul 10. Will of Penuel Sands leaves wife Margaret Sands all his household and kitchen furniture together with his crop of corn, horses, hogs and cattle. If she remarries, he gives her 1/3 part of the above with the remainder to be divided between his children Sarah Sands, William Sands, Penuel Sands, John Skinner Sands, Thomas Sands. Appoints wife “and my friend John Skinner” as co-executors. Witnesses: Elizabeth and Mary Skinner.

Howard Skinner (son of Thomas Skinner) was born in Elizabeth City County Virginia. He was born before 1755. He died after 1787. He married Martha.

Sources:

1778 Oct 5. Will of Joseph Heggitts [Jeggits]. Witnesses: Howard Skinner, John Skinner, Thomas Hatton.

1782 On Elizabeth City Tithables

1781, Mar 8 Pensioner (A5244)

1784 Aug 31. Witnesses will of Richard Burt along with John Skinner and James Bullock.

1787 Listed in the 1787 census 1-0-0-3-2

iv. William Skinner (c1704-?)

This William Skinner may be the William who was of Nansemond County Virginia when he bought land in Chowan County, NC 1721. However, this is unproved. Complicating matters is that the other "major" Skinner family in Elizabeth City County during this time, Thomas and Elizabeth (Daniels) Skinner, had a son named William as did John and Jane Smith Skinner’s son, Samuel.

What we do know is that John and Jane had a son named William according to John's will. We also know that William had a brother Henry. The Henry Skinner who was the son of John and Jane lived in Nansemond County, VA where our William lived before purchasing land in NC. We know that one of John’s other sons was Nicholas and there is a Nicholas Skinner in Chowan County where William lived. While Nicholas Skinner is a rare name in early Virginia and North Carolina, a Nicholas Skinner does appear in the Elizabeth City County records beginning in 1768 and so it cannot be ruled out that the Virginia rather than the North Carolina Nicholas is the son of John and Mary.

Further complicating the question, in addition to John's 1737 will, there are quite a few Elizabeth City County records that mention William Skinners. However, as the first record for an adult William Skinner isn’t until 1755 when John and Jane Smith Skinner’s William would have been around 50, I think it highly unlikely any of these except perhaps the first one are for him.

[L] 1736/7 Jan 19. The case between John Skinner plantiff and William Skinner defendant is continued. Elizabeth City County, VA 1731-1747, p. 128.

1748/9 Mar 7. William Skinner, orphan of Samuel Skinner, chose Hurlsey Carter as guardian. John Jennings and John Cooper bond. (Elizabeth City County, VA Order Book 1745-1755, p.71)

1755 Jan 7. A deed from William Skinner to Mark Parish proved. [No spouse indicated—this may not have been a land deed.] (Elizabeth City County, VA Order Book 1745-1755, p. 465)

1755 Sep 2. William Skinner member of jury in cases of John Hunter vs. Samuel Weir, John Jenings vs. Ann Bushnell, et al, and George Gordon vs. Thomas Craghead. [Elizabeth City County, VA Chancery Court Order Book 1755-1757, p. 11, 12, 13]

1755 Nov 4. On the petition of Elisha Allen against William Loyal and William Skinner for 1 pound 14 shillings 2 pence due by note, the defendants ordered to pay that sum plus 5% interest and costs. [Elizabeth City County, VA Chancery Court Order Book 1755-1757, p. 31]

1756 Jun 1. Francis Riddlehurst ordered to pay William Skinner, Fra[?] Parker and William Tompkins 50 pounds net tobacco each for two days attendance as witness in his suit against John Brodie. [Elizabeth City County, VA Chancery Court Order Book 1755-1757, p. 57]

No date. Vertical text on side mentions 1754 Sep 15. William Skinner member of jury involving the “Negro Nan.” [Elizabeth City County, VA Chancery Court Minutes 1756-1760, p. ?]

1757 Jul 5. Sarah Skinner made choice of William Skinner for her guardian. [Elizabeth City County, VA Chancery Court Minutes 1756-1760, p. 137] Sarah Skinner was born 1747/8, the daughter of Samuel Skinner and Elizabeth Randolph. Francis Riddlehurst was originally her guardian. He died 1756/7.

1758 Mar 7. William Skinner member of jury Dixon vs. Porterfield. [Elizabeth City County, VA Chancery Court Minutes 1756-1760, p. 166]

1759 Jun 5. William Skinner member of jury in case of Powell vs. Curle. [Elizabeth City County, VA Chancery Court Minutes 1756-1760, p. 229]

1759 Nov 6. William Skinner member of jury in cases of Glassford vs. Bayley and The King vs. Blades. [Elizabeth City County, VA Chancery Court Minutes 1756-1760, p. 257-8]

1759 Nov 30. To William Skinner for watching the Goal….36 shillings. [Elizabeth City County, VA Chancery Court Minutes 1756-1760, p. 264]

1760 Dec 15. William Skinner for patrolling…270 pounds of tobacco. [Elizabeth City County, VA Chancery Court Minutes 1760-1769, p. 2]

1762 Mar 3. William Skinner member of a jury. [Elizabeth City County, VA Chancery Court Minutes 1760-1769, p. 70]

1762 Jan 13? [out of order]. William Skinner paid 144 [pounds of tobacco?] for patrolling in the town of Hampton. [Elizabeth City County, VA Chancery Court Minutes 1760-1769, p. 71]

1762 Mar 15. To William Skinner one tithable over charged for one year, 2 sh 17 1/2p. [Elizabeth City County, VA Chancery Court Minutes 1760-1769, p. 73]

1763 Jan 4. William Skinner member of juries. [Elizabeth City County, VA Chancery Court Minutes 1760-1769, p. 119]

1763 Jan 13. To William Skinner for watching the Goal, 18 pounds tobacco. [Elizabeth City County, VA Chancery Court Minutes 1760-1769, p. 124]

1763 Mar 1. William Skinner member of jury. [Elizabeth City County, VA Chancery Court Minutes 1760-1769, p. 129]

1763 May 3. William Skinner member of jury. [Elizabeth City County, VA Chancery Court Minutes 1760-1769, p. 149]

1763 [Aug 2]? A deed from William Skinner and Susanna his wife to Wilson Miles Carey recorded. [Elizabeth City County, VA Chancery Court Minutes 1760-1769, p. 168?]

1763 Aug 2. Deed from William Mitchell and Mary his wife to William Skinner recorded. [Elizabeth City County, VA Chancery Court Minutes 1760-1769, p. 169?]

1763 Oct 4. William Skinner member of jury. [Elizabeth City County, VA Chancery Court Minutes 1760-1769, p. 176]

1764 Jan 3. William Skinner member of jury. [Elizabeth City County, VA Chancery Court Minutes 1760-1769, p. 190]

1764 Nov 7. William Skinner member of juries. [Elizabeth City County, VA Chancery Court Minutes 1760-1769, p. 26?]

1765 Jan 10. County to pay William Skinner his Account. 15 sh [Elizabeth City County, VA Chancery Court Minutes 1760-1769, p. 271]

1765 Aug 23. A Poll for the election of Burgesses. Lists four Skinners: Thomas, Thomas, Sr, William, William, Sr.

1765 Feb 5. Balfour vs. William Skinner. [Elizabeth City County, VA Chancery Court Minutes 1760-1769, p. 281]

1765 Jun 5. William Skinner on juries. [Elizabeth City County, VA Chancery Court Minutes 1760-1769, p. 317, 319]

1765 Sep 3. William Skinner on jury. [Elizabeth City County, VA Chancery Court Minutes 1760-1769, p. 340]

1765 Sep 4. William Skinner on juries. [Elizabeth City County, VA Chancery Court Minutes 1760-1769, p. 343]

1766 Nov 27. To William Skinner patroller 2-50-0. [Elizabeth City County, VA Chancery Court Minutes 1760-1769, p. 411]

1768 Feb 26. Deed from William Skinner and Susannah his wife to Gill?Lambeth Howard. [Elizabeth City County, VA Chancery Court Minutes 1760-1769, p. 534]

1768 Feb 27. William Skinner on jury. [Elizabeth City County, VA Chancery Court Minutes 1760-1769, p. 538]

1768 Feb 27. William Skinner allowed two days attendance as witness for Riddlehurst agst. Johnson. [Elizabeth City County, VA Chancery Court Minutes 1760-1769, p. 539]

1768 Feb 27. William Skinner on jury. [Elizabeth City County, VA Chancery Court Minutes 1760-1769, p. 540]

1768 Nov 26. William Skinner member of jury in case of Curles Admin. Vs. Banks? And Warrington? Vs. Wooten. [Elizabeth City County, VA Chancery Court Minutes 1760-1769, p. 604, 606]

1768 Nov 26. Sheriff account payments: To John Skinner his account allowed 4 shillings. To William Skinner, patroller, 365 [pounds of Tobacco?]. [Elizabeth City County, VA Chancery Court Minutes 1760-1769, p. 611]

1769 Jan 12. At a court held…for the examination of William? [probably Willis] Skinner charged with felony in the stealing from Rebecca Waymouth/Weymouth 10 pounds current money of Virginia, Skinner is to be tried at the next general court. [Elizabeth City County, VA Chancery Court Minutes 1760-1769, p. 613]

1769 Feb 24. Thomas Skinner and William Skinner on juries. [Elizabeth City County, VA Chancery Court Minutes 1760-1769, p. 626, 627]

1769 Feb 24. William Skinner on jury. [Elizabeth City County, VA Chancery Court Minutes 1760-1769, p. 626]

1769 Apr 27. William Skinner on jury. . [Elizabeth City County, VA Chancery Court Minutes 1760-1769, p. 642]

1769 Apr 28. Robert Bright and William Skinner on jury. . [Elizabeth City County, VA Chancery Court Minutes 1760-1769, p. 645]

As to the first record above, based on the date, the case could be related to their mother Jane who died right around this time in 1737. Which raises the possibility that William named in the record was still in Virginia and not the William Skinner who lived in Chowan, North Carolina. (Usually if William were resident of another county or state that the record would so indicate.) Another possibility is that the John and William in this case are the sons of Thomas and Elizabeth Daniels Skinner rather than John and Jane’s sons.

The 1748/9 record obviously refers to the William who was son of Samuel and Lucy Skinner and the third might as well. A number of documents between members of the Parish Family and John and Jane Smith Skinner’s family exist so it is less likely that the third document relates to the William who was the son of Thomas and Elizabeth Daniels Skinner. For most of the others, there isn’t enough information to know whether it is Samuel and Lucy’s William or Thomas and Elizabeth’s (or another unidentified William). Note that the 1765 Poll lists two Williams.

v. Charles Skinner (c1706-c1737)

Charles Skinner was born about 1706 and died before 14 April 1737, the date of his father's will. He married Ursula Berry. Ursula was a legacy in John Skinner's will as Daughter in law, Ursula Berry, formerly the wife of my son, Charles Skinner. She received one shilling. The expression "cut out of the will without a shilling" means just that. To be left one shilling means that the person was still in favor, and Ursula probably had received help after Charles died. Her son Charles was also a legacy. Charles and Ursula had at least one child: 20 i. Charles Skinner. Born before 1737.

Source. The following record may belong to this Charles Skinner:

[L] 1732 Mar 21. In the action upon the case between Charles [Sinner] plantiff and Thos. [Goodman?] defendent. Elizabeth City County, VA Order Book 1731-1747, p. 49.

vi. John Skinner (c1708-1737)

John Skinner was born about 1708 and died in 1737. John was apparently married and had children. His wife, whose name was probably Francis, died before his father’s will was written as she is not listed in that document. She may be the Francis named as a daughter[in-law] in the 1720 will of William Wilson.

A 1738? court ordered that the church wardens bind out his orphans but did not name them.

John was a legacy in his father’s will. It appears that John died in 1737 soon after his father’s will was written but before his father died. My interpretation is that his father was to have administered his son’s estate, but may have been too ill to perform the duty.

Children:Yes, but names unknown

Sources:

[L] 1736/7 Jan 19. The case between John Skinner plantiff and William Skinner defendant is continued. Elizabeth City County, VA 1731-1747, p. 128. It is unclear as to whether the record relates to this William and his brother John. Based on the date, the case could be related to their mother Jane who died in early 1737. Which raises the possibility that William was still in Virginia and not the William Skinner who lived in Chowan, North Carolina. Another possibility is that the John and William in this case are the sons of Thomas and Elizabeth Daniels Skinner rather than John and Jane’s sons. Another possibility is that this is the William Skinner who was the son of Samuel and Lucy Skinner, although he would still have been a minor.

[W] 1737 Sep 22. Ordered that John Skinner [Senior] be summoned as next of kin to administer the estate of John Skinner, Jr. Elizabeth City County VA Order Book, 1731-1747, p. 150

[W] 1738 Nov 15. The appraisement of the estate of John Skinner Jr,. deceased being returned is ordered recorded. Elizabeth City County VA 1731-1747, p. 192.

[W] 1738 Nov 15. An appraisement of the estate of Mr. John Skinner dec’d. L28. p. 87. This is the actual inventory.

[W] 1738? Ordered that Mr. William Tucker, security for Francis Skinner [?] of the Estate of John Skinner dec’d take into his hands the [said?] Estate [said?] Francis being lately dead and the Estate in danger of [lapsing?]. Elizabeth City County, VA Order Book 1731-1747, p. 306. Francis was probably John’s wife.

[W] 1738? Nov 17. Ordered that the church wardens bind out the orphans of John Skinner dec’d according to law. Elizabeth City County VA 1731-1747, p. 307

vii. Henry Skinner (c1710-aft 1737)

Henry Skinner was born about 1710 and died after 1737. He was a legacy in his father’s 1737 will. He had moved by 1737 to Nansemond County which is adjacent to Elizabeth City County. He married Margaret.

In a multi-part article from the William & Mary Quarterly titled “The Old Farms Out of Which the City of Newport News was Erected, with Some Account of the Families Which Dwelt Thereon,” W. T. Stauffer writes on page 807 that Bartholomew Dammon of Northumberland County owned 150 acres on Hampton Roads which appears to have included most of the Edward Parrish farm. “Bartholomew Dammon sold this land to Henry Smith, who sold at least 50 acres of it to Henry Skinner.”

Some researchers think this Henry may have eventually moved to Chowan County, NC: see the “Detail of Procession” record from 2 April 1756. On the other hand, a Henry Skinner, dec'd, is mentioned as having land adjacent to that bequeathed for the Poor of the Parish, Lower Parish of Nansemond Co. If this is the same Henry, it suggests that he is not the Henry Skinner in Chowan County, NC. Nansemond is one of the Virginia “burned counties” and practically no pre-1800 records survive.

Henry asked the Court not to prove his mother’s will without his (or the other heirs?) knowledge. It is unknown why he requested the caveat; perhaps it was because his father was ill and Henry, living in the adjacent Nansemond County, was not in regular contact with the rest of the family. This makes sense as it is possible that all of his brothers and sisters had either died or were no longer living in Elizabeth City County.

Sources:

[W] 1737 May 12. The will of [Jane?] Skinner being [log’d?] in court, it is ordered that the [heir at law?] Henry Skinner be summ’d to know if he [hath?] any objection to the proving thereof. Elizabeth City County VA Order Book, 1731-1747, p. 138

[L] 1737 Sep 22. Upon a caveat brought by Henry Skinner against proving the will of Jane Skinner, deceased, John Skinner being called? and not appearing, it is ordered that the said will not be admitted to be proved without giving the [heir?s?] notice thereof. Elizabeth City County, VA 1731-1747, p. 151.

[D] 1740 Nov 19. Deed between Henry Skinner and Margaret Skinner of the county of Nansemond and William Williams of Elizabeth City County, planter. 150 acres formerly sold by Bartholomew Dammon? of Northumberland County to Henry Skinner of Elizabeth City County. Compare to earlier deed between Henry Smith and Dammon.

[L] 1756 April 2. Detail of procession indicates that Henry Skiner (sic) has land adjacent to Stephen Eure, Thomas Lancton (Langston?), John Carter, and Thomas Sparkman. From Vestry Minutes of St. Paul’s Parish Church, Chowan County, NC 1701-1776, entry 32. This record may be unrelated to this Henry.

[L] A Henry Skinner, dec'd, is mentioned as having land adjacent to that bequeathed for the Poor of the Parish, Lower Parish of Nansemond Co. If this is the same Henry, it suggests that he is not the Henry Skinner in Chowan County, NC. [Patent Book No. 9 as abstracted in Cavaliers and Pioneers, 1695-1732]. Can we verify the date of this?

viii. Nicholas Skinner (c1712-?)

Nicholas Skinner was born about 1712. There are no records in Elizabeth City County of a Nicholas Skinner until John Skinner's 1737 will. Some researchers think that the Nicholas Skinner found in Chowan County in 1748 and then in Bertie, North Carolina by 1754 is this person. The inventory of his NC estate was proved in 1755. The sources after his death may belong to a hypothetical son, Nicholas, Jr. This Nicholas may have been married to Mary. She was remarried by 1755 to a Williams, perhaps Samuel Williams.

However, the Nicholas who was the son of John and Mary could have remained in Virginia as records for a Nicholas Skinner begin appearing in Elizabeth City County, VA by 1755. It seems unusual though that there would be no records for Nicholas until he was in his forties unless he had been living somewhere else. That notwithstanding, a record from Nov 2 1763 is of interest:

Ann Bains administrator of estate of Thomas Bains. Edward Cooper? and Nicholas Skinner entered into bonds. [Elizabeth City County, VA Chancery Court Minutes 1760-1769, p. 186.]

Fanny Bains was wife of Thomas Skinner, Jr.. His father was Thomas Skinner Sr, son of John and Jane Smith Skinner. (Ann Bains was daughter of Mark Parrish—cf his 11 Nov 1777 will.) This record does seem to suggest that this Nicholas Skinner was related to the John and Jane Smith Skinner family. He could have been the son of John Skinner, Jr who we know from court records had at least two children who were bound out after his death, but these are not named.

POSSIBLE VIRGINIA SOURCES FOR NICHOLAS SKINNER

[L] 1755 Aug 6. Archibald White and James Scott, plaintiffs against Nicholas Skinner. The defendant being ruled…to special bail and failing therein, it is ordered that judgment be entered for the plaintiffs against the said defendant and his security for what damages the said plaintiffs have sustained to be ascertained upon an enquiry by a jury. [Elizabeth City County, VA Chancery Court Order Book 1755-1757, p. 9]

[L] 1755 Sep 3. Archibald White and James Scott versus Nicholas Skinner This day came the plaintiffs by their attorney and the defendant being solemnly called came not but made default. Therefore it is considered that the plaintiffs recover against the defendant what damages shall appear they have sustained by occasion of the defendant’s breach of promise in the declaration [?] and be ascertained upon an enquiry there of by a jury. [Elizabeth City County, VA Chancery Court Order Book 1755-1757, p. 22]

[L] 1756 Mar 3. Archibald White and James Scott versus Nicholas Skinner. Jury awards plaintiffs 6 pounds 17 shillings 7 pence. [Elizabeth City County, VA Chancery Court Order Book 1755-1757, p. 37]

[L] 1763 Jan 5 (Wednesday).Nicholas Skinner is on a jury. The regular journal of the court for 1758 is lost, but in the minute book at Hampton has an abstract of this court. Source: The William and Mary Quarterly, Vol. 20, No. 3, (Jan., 1912), pp. 168-173. Stable URL: http://www.jstor.org/stable/1918730. [Elizabeth City County, VA Chancery Court Minutes 1760-1769, p. 121]

[L] 1763 Mar 1. Nicholas Skinner member of jury. [Elizabeth City County, VA Chancery Court Minutes 1760-1769, p. 130]

[L] 1763 Aug 2. Nicholas Skinner member of juries. [Elizabeth City County, VA Chancery Court Minutes 1760-1769, p. 170?, 172, 173]

[L] 1763 Nov 2. Ann Bains administrator of estate of Thomas Bains. Edward Cooper? and Nicholas Skinner entered into bonds. (Fanny Bains was wife of Thomas Skinner, Jr. Ann Bains was daughter of Mark Parrish—cf his 11 Nov 1777 will.) [Elizabeth City County, VA Chancery Court Minutes 1760-1769, p. 186.]

[L] 1764 Jan 3. Nicholas Skinner member of juries. [Elizabeth City County, VA Chancery Court Minutes 1760-1769, p. 191]

[L] 1766 Jul 1. Nicholas Skinner and Thomas Skinner on jury. [Elizabeth City County, VA Chancery Court Minutes 1760-1769, p. 365]

[L] 1768 May 26. Nicholas Skinner on jury. [Elizabeth City County, VA Chancery Court Minutes 1760-1769, p. 553]

[L] 1768 Jun 24. Nicholas Skinner and Thomas Skinner members of jury. [Elizabeth City County, VA Chancery Court Minutes 1760-1769, p. 567]

[L] 1768 Jun 25. Nicholas Skinner on jury. [Elizabeth City County, VA Chancery Court Minutes 1760-1769, p. 569]

[L] 1768 Aug 26. Nicholas Skinner member of jury in the case of Thomas Lattimer vs. William Pool, Brodie vs. Allen, and Bain? Vs. Shores? [Elizabeth City County, VA Chancery Court Minutes 1760-1769, pp. 586-87]

[L] 1768 Aug 27. Nicholas Skinner member of jury in the case of Tarrant vs. Brodie. [Elizabeth City County, VA Chancery Court Minutes 1760-1769, p. 588]

[L] 1768 Nov 24. A deed from Thomas Hamlin? Allen and Lucy his wife to John Stephens was proved by the oaths of James Bullock, Nicholas Skinner, and Thomas Whitaker. [Elizabeth City County, VA Chancery Court Minutes 1760-1769, p. 599]

POSSIBLE NORTH CAROLINA SOURCES FOR NICHOLAS SKINNER

[W] 1754 A Nicholas Skinner w. Mary Skinner listed in Bertie Co Admin Bonds. FIND THIS.

[D] 1748 Chowan Co. deed from Nickles Skinner to Henry Morgon. Proved by oath of John Stringer. (Book E, page 329). Chowan County Court Minutes 1746-48, p. 203.

[D] 1754 Nov 11 Bertie Deed H-125 Thomas Williams to Nicholas Skinner. 28 pds 200 ac part of 2 parcels MOSES HARRELL, BAILEY HARRELL, LEMUEL HARRELL, SOLOMON HARRELL, AMOS HARRELL, GIDEON formerly granted to Benjamin Foreman (1).

[D] Apr 1719 (2) dat 1721 at Mountain Branch adj. John Harrell. wit. John Harrell Jun, William Andrews, Geo Harrell.

[D] 1756 Ibid H-286 William Williams to John Harrell 15 Feb 1756 60 ac on northside Roanoke River, part of pat to Benjamin Foreman at Mill Branch adj. John Harrell Jun. Wit. William Andrew., Nicholas Skinner, John Higgs.

[D] Edg Deed 2-420 John Ward to Absolom Benton 17 Feb 1756 12 pds 205 ac south side Fishing Cr adj William Foreman, Deloach, James Speir. Wit. James Speir, John Speir. WHAT DOES THIS HAVE TO DO WITH NICHOLAS?

[C] 1758 List of Taxables for 1758 in Bertie County taken by John Harrell JP. John and Nich's Skinner listed.

[C] 1759 Bertie County list of Taxables taken by Thomas Pugh Lists a Nicholas and John Skinner.

[L] 1761 JOHN HARRELL of Bertie County, North Carolina, SOURCE: Abstracts of Some Early Harrell

Wills by Barbara B. Harrell posted on the Harrell Genforum: "June 1768 JOHN HARRELL will probated in Bertie Co. NC: sons HARRELL; daughters John Harrell (father of Moses, Bailey, Lemuel, Solomon, Amos and Gideon Harrell and Judah Higgs) bought land from Nicholas Skinner in Bertie Co NC, and Nicholas Skinner witnessed his will in 1767 (probated Bertie Co June 1768) Source: Posted by Barbara B. Harrell on September 16, 1998 at 18:40:03. In Reply to: Ann Harrell married William Skinner posted by kim on August 26, 1998 at 10:24:35.

[L] 17?? JUDAH Higgs, LYCY Davenport; executors BAILEY HARRELL, LEMUEL HARRELL; witnesses Nicholas Skinner, JACOB HARRELL, John Higgs; property plantation where he now lives plus 35 acres land on Roanoke river adjoining LEMUEL HARRELL plantation purchased from William Andrews, where son LEMUEL HARRELL now lives, tract on Roanoke river adjoining son BAILEY HARRELL and purchased from Nicholas Skinner, 120 acres on north side of Cashy Swamp, 240 acres on Cashy Swamp adjoining SOLOMON HARRELL, additional 30 acres land on Roanoke River adj. William Andrews & BAILEY HARRELL, 50 acres recently purchased of Nicholas Skinner plus 25 acres, slaves."

[D] 1782 DB 1-187 JOEL PITMAN of Nash Co. to ISOME HINES of same, March 30, 1782, for 110 pds. Virginia money 110 acres on Stony Creek adjoining Thomas Hunter, William Barnes, and James Barnes, it being part of a tract taken up by Andrew Ross on Feb. 28, 1761. Wit: Nicholas Skinner and Sarah Skinner.

Last updated 2/2010.

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