Inquiries 2006-2008

Inquiries 2003-2005

CCHA prints requests for historical and genealogical information on our website. Inquiries may be submitted to history@chathamhistory.org (please use the text Inquiries Page in the Subject line) or the post office box. We only post Chatham County, NC related inquiries, and they should be brief and precise.

CCHA lacks resources to research inquiries. If you have any information that would help the inquirers, please correspond directly with them.

JOHN THOMAS FIKE DEATH RECORD July 25, 2008 Neal E Rowe (nealerowe@juno.com)
I have a supplemental application hung up with the Sons of the American Revolution. It is for John Thomas Fyke the father of Malachi Fyke, both purchased land grants in 1780 in Chatham County North Carolina.
 
According to my records John died in Chatham County North Carolina 1788. This is the problem I had a typo and sent in the wrong date, I have since sent in a copy of a family tree on the Fyke's starting with John through a different son Nathan Buford Fike, which shows the 1788 death date. The SAR is now asking for proof of that date. Do you have either some cemetery records that would show the death date or Tax list that show the last time he paid taxes, that you would please forward to me.
JONES/CIVIL WAR July 25, 2008 Randy Jones (rancjones@bellsouth.net)
I am doing research on my great grandfather, Wiley Jones. All we know is he lived in Chatham County around the time of the Civil War, and was the right age to be drafted or to enlist. He was born in 1815, married to Ruth Headen, and had five children. He disappears during and after the war from any records we can find. His name is very common for that period and there are numerous Wiley Jones. Can you tell me what the regiments and troops that would have been made up from people from Chatham County and/or where there might be research I could use to find this out?
BILBREY FAMILY July 25, 2008 Julia Elmore (jmelmore@charter.net)
Is there any way that you could get me any information on Thomas Bilbrey, Isham, Johnny, or Lawrence Bilbrey? They would have resided in Chatham County at the onset of the Revolutionary War. Isham fought in the war. I would appreciate any info you could give me. The name might have been spelled Bilberry or Bilborough.
PERRY FAMILY HISTORY July 25, 2008 Debra Perry-McGowan (dmcgowan@email.pittcc.edu)
My family history dates back to William Perry who was born in 1753. Not sure when he came to NC or if born there. I have copies of land grants of relatives, genealogy charts, copy of information on church turned over to Turner Perry as one of the Church leaders circa 1820, and a bible that belonged to Hannah Kirk Perry, who was born in 1793 and is buried in Mt. Vernon cemetery, and have a lock of her hair. She was my great, great, great grandmother. I have a copy of the estate settlement of Turner Perry my 4th great grandfather, born around 1777. Chatham County great... grand parents include William Perry, Turner Perry, James Perry and wife Hannah Kirk, Nathaniel Madison (Oak Ridge Military Graduate and Civil War Officer), John Tilton Perry, then Josiah Rogers as great... grandparent, father of Mary A. Polly Rogers who married Turner, etc. I have copies of the censuses that give all information with slave info as well.
Debra Perry McGowan, Greenville, NC
AFRO-AMERICAN NAMES July 25, 2008 George Carlisle, Jr. (mdgrant@webtv.net)
 Afro-Americans with the names Dowdy, Snipes, Atwater, Lambert, Rives (Rieves, Reaves) families we may be related. Contact me at mdgrant@webtv.net or 314-249-8972.
BUSBY June 23, 2008 William Allen  wlallen@suddenlink.net
Please send me any information, or places I can get it, on my grand mother and great-grandfather. I believe they were born in Savannah. Grandmother: Marie Estelle Busby (B.D. 2/11/1894) Great-grandfather: Charles S. Busby (B.D. 1842- Approx)
BOLLING June 23, 2008 Damien Sohn, Ph.D riokach@gmail.com
I am looking for information about Patsy Bolling who was a teacher in your town in 1886-1892. Could you find any information about her? She graduated Modovia Academy before she became a teacher in your town. Do you know this school? If you find them could you please email them me or mail them to me at 9103 Galbreth Ct. Springfield, VA 22153?
RIVES June 23, 2008 Betty Wall Davis   davisab2@verizon.net
I am seeking information on the Rives Families, in particular my 4th great Grandfather William B. Rives b. 1804 in Chatham NC and died 1879 in Etowah, AL. His wife was Hannah Champion b 1814 in York, SC and died in 1866 and we show Cherokee, AL. We are making a vacation in your direction and would love to be able find the correct cemetery and any history that may be available about them. Since I am the youngest in the family and there is no one left that has recorded much information it is difficult trying also the find my Grandfather’s birthplace and the correct spelling of his name, Tomas Summerville Rives, believe nicknamed Summie b 12 Oct somewhere in Alabama, died in Texas which is where I am. Looking also to purchase the Relics of the Rives or maybe The Book of the Rives. This generation I am related to is nearly just skipped over.
HARBISON ESTATE June 23, 2008 Ryan Keefer Ford  ryanford@ysuhomes.com
I am marketing the new community that is located on the old Harbison Estate behind the Perry Harrison School off of River Forest Rd. Who could I speak with or find out more information about the history of the property?
KILIAN/KILLION June 23, 2008 April Smith   red_overworked_tinkerbell@yahoo.com
I am doing some ancestry research, and it says Michael Kilian or Killion. In 1772 his name appears in Orange County connection with an Estate Sale of Alexander Russell, Deceased. In 1777 he was appointed Constable of the Chatham District, Orange county, North Carolina. Two years later he was listed on a taxpayer roll. Then in 1781 he was killed in the Revolutionary War. Do you have more info on this?
NEAL June 5, 2008 Charlotte Hughes clhughes@embarqmail.com
I am researching an ancestor named Eliza Jane Neal (1838-1906) who married Ambrose Reinhardt in 1855. I know nothing about her family, but did find an Elizabeth J. Neal in the 1850 North Carolina census under her father John Neal. Do you have anything on the John Neal family that might indicate the possibility of my Eliza Jane Neal being from Chatham County? She died in Lincoln County, NC.
McIVERS June 5, 2008 Marvin Johnson mjohnson@intermodalsupport.com
I am helping a friend locate his family the “McIvers.” Through Ancestry.com I have them back to 1820 Matthew McIver, Upper Regiment, Chatham, NC.  Any help would be appreciated.
TEMPLES May 26, 2008 Audrey L. Ramsey - Florissant, Missouri al83rr@msn.com

I am searching for information for the Samuel Temples Family of Chatham County: Samuel Temples was born in 1732  and died in 1784 in Chatham County, he married Winnefred and apparently a second wife. Samuel Temples Jr. born about 1770 in Chatham County and died there between 1816-1818; he married Sarah who died about 1824. Children of Samuel and Sarah born in Chatham County: Mary, Patsy, Joab born abt.1792, Nancy born abt.1804, Sally born abt 1807, Samuel born abt.1808--Samuel was married to Rebecca (my great-great grandparents)

 
I would very much like to learn the maiden names of Winnefred, Sarah and especially Rebecca. I have been unable to find any information to research their family history.
TICK CREEK COMMUNITY May 26, 2008
Terah Crews Terah@unc.edu
I'm trying to locate information on a political commune/community that existed in Tick Creek during the early 70's.  I'm interested in locating any information I can about the community and if possible people who actually lived and participated in it's creation and operation.  The Southern Oral History Project is attempting to broaden our understanding of the civil rights movement beyond traditional timeframes and subjects.  I believe several important N.C. Civil Rights leaders spent some time with this community.
 
If you have any information regarding this community or reference to someone who might, I would greatly appreciate you passing that information along to me.  I can be reached by email or phone (evenings) and am available to come to Chatham county and meet in person. Thank you for your time and assistance.
McMASTERS May 26, 2008 Kathy Anne Coppola kcoppola@iuk.edu
I am a descendent (5th great-granddaughter) of Andrew McMasters who was a patriot and is buried with many more of my ancestors at the cemetery adjacent to the church which is surrounded by a cow pasture and not accessible by a road.  I was able to make a trip to see the church and cemetery in December of last year and it was in terrible shape.  I understand from my research there is considerable amount of history to the church and was wondering if there has ever been a consideration of possibly having it designated as a historical site?  A gentleman that lives in Liberty took me out to the church and told me that every few years the men’s association of his church and boy scouts have gone out to clear the brush and do minor repairs.  I have a file full of articles about the church that were written in the past and about the historical significance. If there were to be any interest I would be willing to assist even though I live out of state.  I am a genealogist and I am concerned that in years to come this important place will be nonexistent.
TISOR May 26, 2008 Gary A. Tisor garyehowe@gmail.com
Your county is festinating.  I really need to know more.  A distant Tisor cousin of mine, just informed me that his branch of our family settled in Chatham County around the 1770's'  I only then had known that my branch had settled around your area when they arrived from London in 1791.  I do not know the parents' given names.  I do know that they had served in Versailles, France probably for the Hungarian Crown.
 
They had removed back to England when the situation in France became hostile.  In 1791 the parents with 4 boys made it to North Carolina.  That winter or soon thereafter the parents died of disease.  Then the 3 older boys returned to England leaving the baby boy, Austin Tisor in the hands of a man named Poff.  Austin Tisor matured and learned the trade of hat making.
 
He married Susannah Wright and with her father Joseph Wright (a Congregational Minister) moved to Cincinnati, Ohio.  I have court records from that point on.  Susannah was from the family of the former Governor Wright of North Carolina. From that time on our Tisor family lived in Ohio.
 
Austin and Susannah begat Hiram Tisor who married Phoeby Greene, they begat Christopher C.Tisor who married Mary Jones, they begat Hubert R. Tisor who married Ethel E. Howe, they begat Darold D. Tisor who married Roma D. Arnold, they begat myself (Gary A. Tisor) born in Dayton, Ohio and who married Peggy M.A. Schneider aka.Roe, we begat Gary Allan Tisor II who married Karen Bentley, they begat Brandon A. Tisor and Austin B. Tisor who are now in their teens and live in California.  My wife and I also begat Christopher Randolph Tisor, they begat Audrey Tisor and Rachael Tisor and live in Colorado.
 
The other Tisor clan (claims also some Portuguese ancestry) relocated from Chatham County to Iowa around 1800 as pioneers.  There is still family in England, but they spell their name Tiza and became famous for their bottled soft drinks.
 
My mother's sister also married a descendant of Joseph Wright who carried the same name even.  He was born in Green County, Ohio just outside of Dayton, Ohio.
 
Another Reverend Wright who seems to be from the same line of Joseph Wright, was a United Brethren Bishop and had two sons and a daughter.  The boys were born in Dayton, Ohio.  They were Wilbur Wright and Orville Wright, the famous Wright Brothers.  These men were well aware of the air currents at Kitty Hawk because their family had come from North Carolina.
 
Still another Reverend Wright (Congregational pastor) seems to be from the same Joseph Wright line and married a Jones girl from my Mary Jones family.  They removed to Wisconsin and after having several kids, this Reverend skipped out on his wife.  Their son was also the famous Frank Lloyd Wright.
 
So it seems that you have quite a lineage of descendents that can trace back to Chatham County, North Carolina. I do not know just how much of this you already knew?  Many years ago I belonged to the Hamilton County Genealogical Society at Cincinnati, Ohio.  There I was admitted to membership as a "First Family" based on my court records of my ancestors,  Tisor and Wright families. Myself, I would like very much to know more about your county's history.  One of our Iowa Tisor kin tells me that there is a book printed titled The Tisors of Old Chatham County.  Do you know of this book?
TAYLOR / HARLOWE May 26, 2008 Ann Suparb anniesuparb@yahoo.com
I'm looking for any information, photos, or stories about Harlow Taylor (or William Harlowe) 1869-1923 who lived in Pittsboro, as well as his parents.  He and his wife were both deaf and had two daughters. Also, this is a longshot but I am seeking a black & white composition book in which Emily Taylor Brower Dixon wrote down many stories from her youth.  Sadly this book was lost and I am hoping it is out there somewhere, so please let me know if you have heard of it. (She was Harlow Taylor's daughter and lived in the yellow house in Pittsboro until 1993.) Any help would be much appreciated.
CHASON May 26, 2008 Cindy Scott cscott4@triad.rr.com
I am searching for the cemetery record for my GGGrandmother, Martha Jane Chason.  She was born Aug 1860 and died 10 April 1932 in Chatham County, I have her death certificate; but it doesn't tell which cemetery she is buried in or if someone is able to do an obituary lookup.  Her husband Jefferson A. Chason died 5 Mar 1907 and is buried in Robeson County.  Thank you any information would be greatly appreciated.
BROOKS & THOMAS May 26, 2008 Sara Robbins Hoffman july37@cox.net
I'd appreciate any assistance you may provide with the following inquiries or possibly point me in the right direction. James M. Brooks was b. abt. 1841 in Upper Regiment, Chatham Co, NC. He joined the 26th NC. I'm interested in learning the death date & burial place of Sergeant James M. Brooks.
 
Daniel B. Thomas was b. abt. 1841 in Upper Regiment, Chatham Co., NC He was a member of the 26th NC. Also interested in finding the death date & burial place of Private Daniel B. Thomas. The website for the 26th NC speaks of these men but posts no way to contact them for information.
SUSANNAH BEADLE May 26, 2008 Marie Peer peer@mindspring.com
I am searching for the maiden name of a Susannah born in Chatham County.  It is unusual for people who died when she did.  We are fortunate she did have one. Susannah ? married James Teague about 1809 or 1810. I assume that was in Chatham County.  He was the son of David Teague and Sarah McDonald. Do you have family Bible records?  Do you know what libraries might have family Bible records?  Maybe a Susannah is listed with a birth date of 30 Sep 1789. Just for interest, I've copied and pasted Susannah (?) Teague Beadle's obituary below:
 
Susannah's obituary:
 
Susan Beadle was born in Chatham County North Carolina on September 30. 1789.  She died in Somerville, Ohio, August 23, 1877.  She was married to James Teague when about 20 years old.  She moved to Butler County, Ohio in 1815 and located one-half mile south of Somerville, on the farm now known as the Beadle place, where she lived until a few years since.  Shortly after coming to Ohio, her husband died.  She afterward married John Beadle, who died in 1832, since which time she remained a widow.
 
When she with her husband emigrated to Butler County, it was a dense wilderness.  She endured the hardships and contended with the dangers of a pioneer life.  About 25 years ago she united with the M.E. Church and has ever shown by her walk that she was in Christ and He in her.  She reared a family of six children all of whom were present at her funeral to mourn their loss.  She had forty-nine grandchildren and sixty-five great-grandchildren ; remarkable record, and still more remarkable in that ninety-five of them are living.
 
This dear mother has been blind four years, in total darkness, and yet with a heart full of peace and joy that made her life light under the greatest affliction.  During her last sickness she showed the same patient spirit that has so plainly marked her life, even under the most trying circumstances.  She was ready and anxious to go to her Father's house.  Death had no sting for her.  May her loved ones all meet her in Heaven.  The funeral services were held in the Presbyterian Church, in Somerville, on Saturday August 25, 1877, at 10 A.M.; Rev. J.S. Pumphrey conducting the sermon assisted by Rev. McClusky.  A very large congregations showed the esteem in which the deceased was held in the community.
 
General Information:
 
Susannah ? married James Teague around 1809 most likely in Chatham or surrounding county, North Carolina. James Teague was born 12 Nov 1784, the son of David Teague and Sarah McDonald.  He died before 16 Jan 1816. I know this as their children are named in David Teague's will of about 1830.  This Teague Family resided a little northeast of Siler City; Teague's Mill is on land that was once David Teague's land. They had children:
Rebecca Teague bn 16 Sep 1811 in NC; married Wm Conarroe
Andrew Teague bn 12 Dec 1812 in NC m. Catharine Shaffer
James C. Teague bn 13 March 1816 in Warren Co Ohio
 
Susannah married John Beadle (He and his family came from New Jersey, not NC) 15 Nov 1819.  He died 10 Apr 1832. They had children:
Caroline Beadle bn 1820 m. David Potts
Oliver Beadle m. Mary Ann Oren
Oren Beadle bn 19 Jun 1824 m. Adaline Brown
 
Thank you for information about Bible records for Chatham County.
 
Marie Peer, P.O. Box 1021, Craig, CO 81626, 970-824-6785, peer@mindspring.com
EBENEZER CHURCH May 26, 2008 Lindsay Matson lpmatson@ncsu.edu
I am a graduate student at NC State researching and google mapping historic properties in North Carolina.  I was hoping to discover the location (or a rough estimate of the location) of the first Ebenezer Church.  The church I am interested in is not the one currently located on Jordan Lake, but rather a log structure constructed with notching that was demolished in the 1970s.  The church was a simple building with a wood and stone chimney and used by the congregation until they moved to the present Gothic Revival structure.  Was the first church located in the same area as the present one?
CAMPBELL May 26, 2008 Barbara Campbell Perry perry530@triad.rr.com
I have been trying to locate my family for a long time....they lived in Chatham County.....trying to find out when my great grandparents died....where they were buried....and if they owned property. My great grandparents were:
 
Joseph Duncan Campbell, born in 1849 in Chatham...don't know when he died.  He married Nelly A Self on (I believe) Nov 15, 1874.  I have two birth years for Nelly...1854 and 1860.  They had three children: Emily born in 1878, Daniel born in 1879, and my grandfather Robert born in 1880 in Bear Creek.  Believe Joseph and Nelly died between 1893 and 1900 when the census came out.  At the time of the census, my grandfather was raising all of his brothers and sisters.  The youngest was Ida...age 6 on the census.  She was born in Dec of 1892 or Dec of 1893.
 
My grandfather was Robert C or J Campbell.  He married Manie Taylor Self on January 25, 1899.  He was born on May 2, 1880 and died on April 4, 1960.  Grandmother was born October 3, 1877 and died June 12, 1960.  They lived in Silk Hope and were buried at Mount Vernon Methodist Church Cemetery.  They were cousins.
 
I have names and birthdays for my great great grandparents:  Daniel Campbell born in 1811....married to Elizabeth (Betsey) Emerson.  She was born in Dec. 1814 and died on October 4, 1873.  They were married on Oct 5, 1837.  Both of them were born in Chatham County and were married in Chatham County.  Elizabeth was also listed as dying in Chatham..  Their children were Ruth born about 1842 in Chatham, John born about 1846 in Chatham, and my great grandfather....Joseph Duncan Campbell born in 1849.  Do not know the names of Daniel's parents, but Elizabeth's parents were John Emerson and Mary A Freeman.
SMITH/WHINERY April 18, 2008 Linzey Carlson winsomeacresarts@netsync.net
I am looking for information on Isabell Smith. She was married to Robert Whinery. I don't have his birthdate, but he died 1809 in Chatham County, NC. I'd like her parents names and family history. Am wondering if there is any chance she may have been Native American? Robert's parents were Patrick and Sarah Noblitt Whinery.
GUM SPRINGS SCHOOL April 18, 2008 Wanda Crawley wan.crawley@hotmail.com
I am looking for information on GUM SPRINGS SCHOOL which was located on hwy 87 north of Pittsboro, about 4 miles from the intersection of Hwy 64 & 87. My father, born 2/1912, was a student there. I understand Mr. Charlie Lutterloh was a teacher. I am not sure of the year/years. I have a couple of old books that have Gum Springs School written inside. Please contact me if you have any information on this location. Thank you. Wanda E Crawley, 864-909-3675
PACE MILL PROPERTY April 18, 2008 Marianne Odom mhodom@earthlink.net
I am Marianne Harbison Odom. I grew up on the old Pace Mill property, currently being developed near Mt. Pleasant Church. I am a permanent resident of South Carolina now, near Charleston. Since my Dad died and my mom made the decision to sell the old home place, I have sorely felt the demolition of my old home and the sale of the property. That was the only home I ever knew. I have since become interested in the history of my home place and the county where I grew up. How might I read more about it? Are there books available? I appreciate your input, and I thank you for helping to preserve the history of the area. Sincerely, Marianne H. Odom, 409 Partridge Circle, Summerville, SC 29485
BRUMFITON April 18, 2008 Ernie Leonard ernieleonard@earthlink.net
Seeking location and information on a place named "BRUMFITON" located on the Northwest Branch of the Cape Fear River in 1759. On or near this place was a coal mine, which should place it in Chatham County. Thanks for your input.
HOBSON April 18, 2008 Terry Bohrman dbohrman@prodigy.net
I am researching my Hobson ancestors. According to what I have found, my 6g grandparents: George Hobson (b 1716, d 1797 Chatham Co.) and Hannah Elizabeth Kinnison Hobson (b abt 1718. d 1761 Chatham Co) were from your area. Do you have any records about this family? We would like to do some research. Can you suggest any places we should look? Thank you for any help you can give.
GRAVE SITE March 20, 2008 Ben Reece BenReece@allstate.com
I have purchased a lot to build a home on in Chatham County off Old Graham Rd. and believe there to possibly be a grave site on the lot. How can I be sure? Any information on who to contact or how to verify would be greatly appreciated. Thank you in advance.
COUNCIL, WOMBLE, BARKER & BROWN March 18, 2008 Sally Murray  sal.murray@comcast.net
I've been doing research on my husband's family for several years. I am interested in the Council, Womble, Barker & Brown surnames in Chatham/Wake Counties since the 1800's. Can you tell me how I can get more information and hopefully a photo of the following: Utley-Council House; Paschal Womble House.

Also, do you have any contacts researching any of these names that you can share. I have a lot of information on the Councils and Wombles, but not as much on the Barkers and Browns. All of these names were in Chatham/WhiteOak/Wake Counties particularly in Apex. Thanks so much.
MANLEY/MANLY March 16, 2008 Suzanne Turner turner@lsu.edu
I am seeking the personal papers and correspondence of John Haywood Manley (or Manly), son of Charles. Thank you.
BOHLING CHAIR CO. March 14, 2008 Marlys Thoms mrwthoms@brookings.net
We have just purchased four chairs that were made at the Bohling Chair Co. in Siler City, NC. Can you tell me anything about this company? When did it exist? And, when might these chairs have been produced? I would really appreciate any info you might have. Thank you.
BRAY March 8, 2008 Mark Buster mrkbuster@rtmc.net
I am looking for the location of Bray Cemetery located in Chatham County. I'm a volunteer for "Find a Grave" and I have a request for a family plot/ Henry Bray grave photo. Any assistance that you can provide would be appreciated. Thank you for your assistance.
BREWER March 5, 2008 Susan Brewer brewsue@aol.com
I'm interested in finding information about Wilson Brewer born in 1801 in Chatham Co. He is often confused with the Wilson Brewer born in 1809 whose parents are Thomas and Lucretia Brewer. I have not been able to find out who Wilson's parents were. Any help is appreciated.
BURNS March 5, 2008 Carolyn Allen carolynallen2@yahoo.com
Searching for parents of my ancestor Henry Burns born abt 1790 in NC (according to US census). He is in Alabama by about 1821 with wife Levitha (spelled many different ways) from Virginia. His first children are Laird and Hezekiah born after 1822.
COLE February 15, 2008 Arthur D. Hodgin, 2601 Northwest A St., Richmond, IN 47374-3809
My great grandfather, Edwin COLE was born 8 August 1835 in Chatham County. As a child in Greensfork, Wayne County, Indiana, he was called both Phoshee and Cole: in 1853 signed his marriage license Phoshee and signed his Civil War enlistment papers Cole, which became the family name. I would appreciate any information that might clarify the mystery of his surname.
EGGARTON/EGERTON/EDGERTON January 2008 Nancy Komlos nancy.komlos@comcast.net
I am searching for information on an Eggarton/Egerton/Edgerton family, daughter Sarah, born 1760, in Chatham County, NC, died 1845 in Bulloch County, GA, married John Tillman, born 1751 in Somerset County, Maryland, died 1829 in Bulloch County, GA. He was a son of John Stephen and Rosanna Tapper Tillman, and a revolutionary war soldier.
GRIFFITH January 2008  Pat Holland patltnnseb@aol.com
Re: The Genealogy of the Griffith Family of Napa County, California.
Quote Napa County Biographies: "Calvin Chesterfield Griffith, horticulturist, Napa County, who is one of the oldest pioneers of this place, having crossed the plains in 1845 with the new historical train that brought out the Hudsons, Yorks and many other well-known names in California, and that was the first train that brought wagons over the Sierra Nevadas." Calvin C. Griffith is my Great Great Grandfather and was born in Chatham County, North Carolina, March 1, 1828. His Father was James A. Griffith and his Mother was Elizabeth Rogers Griffith. Calvin's Grandfather was Mason Griffith. Calvin married Lydia Sensibaugh in St. Helena, Napa County, California in 1855. Both Lydia and Calvin with some of their children are buried in the St. Helena Cemetery. An excellent source on Calvin is "The Men of the California Bear Flag Revolt and Their Heritage", by Barbara R. Warner, 1996.
FOLK VICTORIAN HOUSE January 2008 Edward Smith  eddie_27514@yahoo.com
Seeking history of Folk Victorian House at 1780 McGhee Rd. I am trying to help a friend determine the history of the folk Victorian house formerly located at 1780 McGhee Rd (at Ferrington Point Road) in the Williams Township in the northeast corner of Chatham County. I hope to find someone with firsthand knowledge of this building and its history. My friend just moved it to her Alamance county property and she wants to preserve it as much as possible. She now thinks this building may have played a very significant role to the township and was used as a public/commercial building rather than a home. Upon closer inspection it appears the building was never built as a house, as most or the rooms had 2 or more doors with abundant porches and hallways. It may never have had a kitchen. A bath was installed on a porch around the 1950's-60's. This home was built around 1918 according to the grandson of Ernest R McKhee, the builder. It could be older in my opinion. A plat of the property done in 1925 shows stables, blacksmith shop, saw mill, tobacco barns, store and other houses in the immediate area. A number of roads intersected at this location. My friend heard someone say that a church was located across the road in the late 1700's. This house is a folk Victorian treasure. The two major rooms are six-sided with multicolored Victorian windows. There are 6 gables, each with different patterned shingles and vents. With so many roads intersecting at this building, with two significant sized stables nearby it tells me that this may have been built as a hotel, multiple stores, post office, community center, etc. We think this house has a story to tell. It is being restored next to the historic 1895 Holt grand Queen Ann Victorian overlooking the village of Haw River. Do you know who I can contact or what documentation I can look at to find out more on this buildings original purpose?
BROGTON January 2008 Carl Palmer carlhpal@hiwaay.net
Am looking for descendants of or information about John Brogton who was on the 1800 Hillsborough, Chatham County, NC Federal census.
RICHARDSON January 2008 Tom Adams tom@tomtexas.com
I would like to ask if anyone there has any record of the Richardson family from the early 1800s. Dorothy Richardson, the 3rd child of Fisher, was my great-great-grandmother. By 1811, they had moved to Wilson County, Tennessee. If someone there has any information on Fisher Richardson such as who his wife or parents were, I would really like to get this information. In addition, I plan to be in your area in April so if there was something to see there that was connected to the Richardsons, I would like to see it then.
Husband - Fisher Richardson
Wife
Children
1. Loyd Richardson - Male - Birth: 06 JUL 1799, Chatham, North Carolina - Death: 24 FEB 1881 Trenton, Gibson, Tennessee
2. Willis Ford Richardson - Male - Birth: 04 JUL 1801, Chatham, North Carolina - Death: 08 MAR 1868 , Anderson, Texas
3. Dorothy Richardson - Female - Birth: 04 JUN 1803, Chatham, North Carolina - Death: 1864 Of, , Anderson, Texas
4. Nancy Richardson - Female - Birth: 22 FEB 1805, Chatham, North Carolina
5. Elizabeth Brown Richardson - Female - Birth: 22 DEC 1806, Chatham, North Carolina
6. Malendra Richardson - Female - Birth: 01 MAR 1809, Chatham, North Carolina
7. Thursey Theresa Richardson - Female - Birth: 16 JAN 1811, Wilson, Tennessee - Death: 20 OCT 1875 , Butler, Kentucky - Burial: Githens Cemetery , Butler, Kentucky
8. Ledufcia Richardson - Female
PHILLIPS January 2008 Robert Phillips rephilli@hotmail.com
I was hoping you might be able to provide me the approximate location on a Google map near Goldston of the farm listed on my GGGGG granddaddy's deed? I have a link here. http://ftp.rootsweb.com/pub/usgenweb/nc/chatham/deeds/phillips81gdd.txt
Additionally, I am trying to find out any information on who Merrel Phillips' parent might have been. Merrel was born around 1803-1807, and in your county in 1850. However, I can not place him on any records prior to the 1850 census with absolute certainty. Would another Phillips family in the area be able to help?
HARDEN January 2008 E. E. Penwell  merlins58@msn.com
I am a descendant of Jonathan Harden (1738-1815) born in Orange County/Rutherford NC. I am searching for his gravesite in the Rutherford area and also name of wife and family information. 
BREAZEALE January 2008 Jeffrey Breazeale  usmcjbreazeale@yahoo.com
I'm researching my family history and have recently found that the monarch of my family Kennon Breazeale had land in Chatham County that was given to him after he married Haskey Griffin, as a dowery from his father in law. How would I go about finding the deed and marriage license from this event?
HOLDER January 2008 Peggy Fairchild fairchip1@insightbb.com
Do you have Bastardy Bonds from 1806-1809? I am looking for Levina Holder. She had a child b. July 24, 1809 and another about 1807. She was a well known "woman of ill-repute." The 1807 child was my gg grandfather. I would like to know if she named the father of these two children. I hope you can help me, or refer me to someone to assist me in my search.
MANLEY/MANLY January 2008 Suzanne Turner turner@lsu.edu
I am trying to find out where the personal papers and correspondence of John Haywood Manley (or Manly), son of Charles, are located.
BURK January 2008 Gene Phillips  e_phil3@bellsouth.net
I am a descendent of Millinner Burk of Chatham County who is listed in the 1790 census as the only Burk in Chatham County. Can anyone give me an idea where he or any of the Burk family (around 1800) might be buried?
RAMSEY January 2008 Charles Flink  chuck.flink@greenways.com
I am trying to locate the best source of information about the Ramsey Family that lived in Chatham County around the time of the Revolutionary War. Do you know of a good source of information about this family.
HUGHEY January 2008 Gloria D. Arnold  garnold9@cox.net
I am working on a genealogy of my family (the Hugheys). I'm really stuck on my great grandfather's parents. I know his name is James M. Hughey. He was born in North Carolina and as a lad came to Ga and settled in the Calhoun area. I am looking for his parents. His mother was b. in SC and his father NC. We found him once in Murray Co, Ga., with his mother named Sarah and 4 sisters. She was from SC and her husband from NC. James was born 1830 according to his grave stone. So I need to find a set of parents who had a son named James about 1830 in NC. Sarah was a widow in 1850 so her husband would have died in the 1840s. She can't be found in the 1860s so I think she may have died in the 1850s. I have been thru many lines of Hugheys and I know they must have been a branch somewhere but I'm stuck. I would appreciate any help you could provide me with. Sarah was born in 1805 so I think we would guess his father would be about the same age more or less.
JONES January 2008 Donald Wood donalddwood@gmail.com
I am searching for information about: WILLIS JONES, b Mar. 1835, Chatham, Co, NC; d. Madison Co, TN. WILLIS lived near Goldston's Post Office during 1860 US Census, with his mother SUSAN JONES. Civil War service: Co G, 26th NC Inf.; the "Chatham Boys."
AUSTIN January 2008 Tom Glendinning  goaglen@intrex.net
I am trying to reach Willa Austin, who may have knowledge of a cemetery off Eddie Perry Road.
McGEE 31 Jan 08 Virginia McGee
My family and I were so pleased that our great-grandfather's letters were published in the Chatham Historical Journal.  My visit to Pittsboro in 1988 was fifty years after my first and only other visit in 1938, when my aunt and I stayed with our cousin Margaret Horne in the old Hanks home. She was such a delightful person. As I remember, she operated a small lending library in her house. We were entertained with true Southern hospitality by several people who remembered the Texas relatives and by my cousin, George Brooks, and his family. I always enjoy receiving the newsletter and journal, and am happy that our letters are in a safe place and available to those who might find them interesting.
MOON November 20, 2007 Carol Mosher   cmosher@igc.org
Looking for parents of Joseph Moon,  b. 1786, "Beauforter" Chatham, N.C.
RIVES, REEVES, REAVES, RIEVES, COTTON, MARSH, SILER, GORDON October 19, 2007 Marcia Reeves msmarcia22@aol.com
I am a descendant of the Rives (aka Reeves, Reaves, Rieves), Cotten, Marsh, and possibly Siler and Gordon families of Chatham County.  I was wondering if you could direct me to any historical information specific to Chatham County about these families. A few of my relatives are. Archie "James Reaves/Rives", b.1897 mother: Isabelle "Bell Rives" (maiden: Marsh),  b.1864 father: Andrew  Reaves/Rives wife: Buelah (maiden: Cotton/Cotten), b. 1905, Archie & Buelah's children: James Paul (JP), Levander, Joe Lewis, Ella Mae "Betty", Archie's  father: Andrew Rives, b.1856, mother: Hannah (maiden:Gordon?) father: Fisher Rives(???)
Thank you!
BLAND October 16, 2007 Kelli Brizek kellybrizek@bellsouth.net
I've emailed back and forth with someone from your area who was good enough to get a picture of a tombstone for me. I didn't save that wonderful person's name or email (I'm learning as I go here!) but I sure wish I would have because now I have another request!

Would someone PLEASE take a picture of some graves at Hank's Chapel Cemetery for me?  I'm looking for:
1. William "Buck" Bland 1787 - 1860
2. Elizabeth (last name is Lewis or McBain .I don't know) Bland 1797 - 1860

Also, would it be possible for you to email me the address/phone number to someone there at Hank's Chapel Cemetery?  I'd like to ask them if they will make copies of any records they may have. As I said to the other person who took the first photo. I will be happy to reimburse you for your gas, time, and trouble.
Thank you ever so much.
McVAY October 10, 2007 Virginia Aziz virginia_aziz@yahoo.com
We are researching the McVay family and have come across a brief item in a publication (possibly "McVay Family Quarterly" or "Valley Leaves") that reads as follows:
North Carolina
Deeds Chatham County
John and Nancy McVey his wife 16 Oct 1794 sold 151 acres to Hezekiah Laseter for 70 pounds.

We believe this might be our direct line and are specifically looking for any records that pertain to John and Nancy. We would appreciate any help you can give.  If you have any questions, please let me know.
ALSTON October 7, 2007 Tabitha Barnette tbarnette@peacebaptistchurch.org
I am trying to find a list of the slaves of Philip K. D. Alston (1811-1852) and his wife, Ann Harwell. Philip Alston left his estate to his wife. I am specifically looking for Cesar and Chesney Alston who may have been slaves of Philip and Ann. Cesar had a son named Cesar and a daughter named Mary (my g-grandmother). Mary married a free black Kearney or Carney Glover who worked on the plantation of Ann E. Alston after Philip died.
HENDRICK August 21, 2007 Vickie Benefield  daylo1@msn.com
Looking for information on Jesse Hendrick, listed as a drummer on the 23rd Sept.1772 Chatham Regimental Return under Captain Elisha Cain.   Jesse's eldest son was Elias Hendrick, who was married to Molly Whitehead.  I am seeking information on the father and mother of Jesse Hendrick.  If anyone has any information on Jesse Hendrick or Elias Hendrick, I would certainly appreciate it. Thank you!
NOBLETT July 19, 2007 Leo Noblett  noblett@optonline.net
I am seeking information regarding JOSEPH NOBLETT probably born about 1763, son of WILLIAM and CATHERINE (Whinnery) NOBLETT, who moved to Chatham County from PA in the 1700s. I am also interested in records of WILLIAM NOBLETT, born about 1785, son of JOSEPH NOBLETT and grandson of WILLIAM NOBLETT above. Any help or suggestions you can offer will be appreciated. Leo C. Noblett
 BASS July 30, 2007 Rodney R. Dietert  rrd1@cornell.edu
I am trying to find information on two brothers, Moses and Edward Bass who came to Chatham County about 1779-1781 from Dobbs County.  They then moved on to Surry County, NC about 1797.  Moses was married to Catharine? and Edward was married to Hannah Moon.  They seem to have lived and moved with Quaker families starting in Dobbs to Chatham then Surry.  They may have had state grants when first arriving in Chatham.  But Moses bought property in Chatham deeded from Thomas Dixon (member of the Cane
Creek Meeting House) in 1787 and sold it to Joseph Hickman in 1797 when they left for Surry County, NC.  I suspect Bass Mountain in Chatham may have been named for the 1780s-1797 family.
Any information concerning their period in Chatham County would be greatly appreciated. Rod Dietert
CRUTCHFIELD July 25, 2007 Jim E. Crutchfield   jecru2003@yahoo.com
I am desperately seeking the parentage of Francis P. Crutchfield who was born in Chatham County between 1794 and 1800.  He moved to Hancock County, Georgia and married Rebecca Griggs in December of
1824......Please help me solve this mystery.  Francis was my 2nd great-grandfather!
 Kindest Regards, Jim E. Crutchfield, 62 Manor Row, Macon, Georgia 31210-2168
BROOKS/MOURNING August 14, 2007 Keith Brooks Keith.Brooks@avivausa.com
I'm looking for any information someone might have regarding George W. Brooks and his offspring.  He was married 3 times.  First to Annie Clegg, then to Louise Mourning, and then to Fannie Mae Mourning. I'm especially interested to know if anyone knows anything about the Mourning family. Thanks for your help! 
HAYGOOD August 17, 2007    Robert M. Holland   hollab@earthlink.net
I am looking for any information on Benjamin Haygood.  He married Mary Ann Stewart on 24 Dec  1777 in Chatham County.  He also enlisted in 1775 and served as a private under Cpt. George Herndon and Wilcox in Gen. Folsom's brigade.  According to my records, that company was raised in Chatham County. Any information on him or his parents would be helpful.  Thank you.  Elizabeth Holland, 1146 Stormy Valley Rd., Las Vegas, NV  89123, (702)645-5655.
WARD August 18, 2007 R. Wayne Ward   marysstinson@yahoo.com  
I would appreciate any information about Thomas Ward, born 11-21-1796, died 12-7-1831,  married  (Elizabeth) Betsy Stinson, 9-18-1825.  Looking for information about his father & mother, his brothers &
sisters, when he came to Chatham, etc. Thank you.
DOWD July 3, 2007 Susan Sheeren   ssheeren@sbcglobal.net
I am trying to find the parents of Catherine Dowd, born 1765 in Chatham Co. She married Burwell Kendrick around 1782.  I think that Owen and Judith Dowd were her grandparents. If you have any keys to this, please contact me. Thank you, Susan Sheeren, 16111 Rudgewick Lane, Spring, Texas  77379-6668
BREWER June 30, 2007