Person Page - 3180

     Lanford Wayne Thomson was born on 31 October 1926 at Mondovi, Buffalo Co., Wisconsin, USA.^1,2 He married Frances Bernice Paris, daughter of Benjamin Franklin Paris and Frances Cleveland Hart, in September 1956
; Marriage announcement in The Daily Oklahoman, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, 5 August 1956, p. 58
Ancestry.com - Newspapers.com Marriage Index, 1800s-1999
Lanford Wayne Thomson died on 23 May 2018 at Marble Falls, Burnet Co., Texas, USA, at age 91.^1,2
Lanford Wayne Thomson was buried after 23 May 2018 at Lakeland Hills Memorial Park, Burnet, Burnet Co., Texas, USA; From Find A Grave:

     Erma Phillips married Geraldine Pratt, son of Harry "Jack" Alexis Pratt and Elma Coy Paxton.¹
Erma Phillips was born in 1924.¹
Erma Phillips died in 2001 at Yucca Valley, San Bernardino Co., California, USA.¹

     William Murphy married Abigail "Abbe" Cahall, daughter of Edward Cahal and Nancy (?), on 7 March 1786 at Pittsylvania Co., Virginia, USA,
; Marriage Record #1: Ancestry.com - Virginia, Select Marriages, 1785-1940

Marriage Record #2: Ancestry.com - Virginia, Compiled Marriages, 1660-1800

     William Thornton married Elizabeth Cahal, daughter of Edward Cahal and Nancy (?), on 4 September 1796 at Pittsylvania Co., Virginia, USA,
; Marriage Record #1: Ancestry.com - Virginia, Compiled Marriages, 1660-1800

Marriage Record #2: Ancestry.com - Virginia, Select Marriages, 1785-1940

     Henry Perkins married Bethania Cahal, daughter of Edward Cahal and Nancy (?), on 29 July 1802 at Pittsylvania Co., Virginia, USA,
; Marriage Record #1: Ancestry.com - Virginia, Compiled Marriages, 1740-1850

Marriage Record #2: Ancestry.com - Virginia, Select Marriages, 1785-1940
     Henry Perkins and Bethania Cahal appeared in the census of 7 August 1820; p. 50, line 15
Name:     15 Henry Perkins
Home in 1820 (City, County, State):     Maury, Tennessee
Enumeration Date:     August 7, 1820
Free White Persons - Males - Under 10:     2 [aft 1810]
Free White Persons - Males - 10 thru 15:     2 [1805-10]
Free White Persons - Males - 26 thru 44:     1 [1776-94] Henry
Free White Persons - Females - Under 10:     2 [aft 1810]
Free White Persons - Females - 10 thru 15:     1 [1805-10]
Free White Persons - Females - 26 thru 44:     1 [1776-94] Bethania ca 1778
Slaves - Males - Under 14:     1
Slaves - Females - Under 14:     3
Slaves - Females - 26 thru 44:     1
Number of Persons - Engaged in Agriculture:     4
Free White Persons - Under 16:     7
Free White Persons - Over 25:     2
Total Free White Persons:     9
Total Slaves:     5
Total All Persons - White, Slaves, Colored, Other:     14.³

     Jacob Simcox of Ridley married Alice Maris, daughter of Richard George Maris and Alice Wellsmith, on 15 November 1684 at Delaware Co. (Chester Co. bef 1789), Pennsylvania, USA.¹

     ; See attached for more info on the Maris family of Chester Co.¹

     Jane Maddox married George Edward Maris, son of Richard George Maris and Alice Wellsmith, in 1690 at Delaware Co. (Chester Co. bef 1789), Pennsylvania, USA.¹

     ; See attached for more info on the Maris family of Chester Co.¹

     John Worrilow married Anna Maris, daughter of Richard George Maris and Alice Wellsmith, on 14 August 1690.²

     ; See attached for more info on the Maris family of Chester Co.²

     Susannah Lewis of Haverford married John Maris, son of Richard George Maris and Alice Wellsmith, on 21 September 1693 at Pennsylvania, USA.¹

     ; See attached for more info on the Maris family of Chester Co.¹

     ; See attached for more info on the Mendenhall family of Chester Co.¹

     In John Nichols's will dated 8 October 1773 at Halifax Co., Virginia, USA, William Nichols was named as executor;      "In the name of God Amen, the 8th day of October in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and seventy three - I John Nichols of the County of Halifax being very sick and weak in body but in perfect mind & memory thanks be to God. Therefore, calling to mind the mortality of my Boddy and knowing it is appointed for all men once to die do make and ordain this my last Will and Testament that is to say principally and first of all -
     "I give recommend my soul to God that gave it and for my body I recommend to the earth to be buried in a Christian and decent manner at the discretion of my Executors nothing doubting that at the general Resurrection I shall receive the same again by the mighty power of God and as touching such Worldly Estate wherewith it is pleased God to bless me with in this life - I give devise and dispose in manner and form following.
     "I empress it is my will and I do order that in the first place all my debts to be paid and satisfied.
     "Item: I leave to my well beloving wife Mary Nichols during her widowhood only, seven negroes namely, Peter, Lewis, Frank, Patt, Milley, Hannah and Jenny, also my Manor plantation together with 580 [acres] of land contiguous thereto according to a survey lately made by Robert Wooding together with my household furniture, utensils, &c. Also, my still together with my riding horse, Boo, together with all stocks & moveables of all kinds.
     "Item: I have given to my sons, William, John & Jesse Nichols & also to my daughters Sary Robertson, Betty Owen and Peggy Legrand, themselves their heirs and assigns all the land negroes cattle hoggs beds pewter & every other thing that I before lent them to their only proper use & behoof of them & their heirs as their parts of my estate.
     "Item: To my well beloved son Ambrose Nichols & to his heirs and assigns all that tract or parcel of land joining his brother Jesse, Hardwick, and Peter Hudson situate on the branches of Clover Creek containing four hundred and sixth eight acres more or less according to a survey made by Robert Wooding, it being part of Order of Counsel, also 50 pounds Current Money to be raised out of my estate by my Executors by selling anything that can be best spared also anything that has been delivered him.
     "Item: I give and bequest to my well beloved daughter Nanny Nichols and her heirs and assigns all the tract of or parcel of land situate on the branches of Difficult and Black Walnut Creeks and on both sides of Stewarts Ferry Road joining the lines of Agnes Robertson, Thomas Hope and the outlines of my Order and John Jones, containing four hundred acres more or less according to a survey made by Robert Wooding being part of my order aforesaid. I also give to my Daughter aforesaid two negroes namely, Milley and Hannah, 1 horse or mare, 2 cows and calves & 1 heifer together with 1 feather bed & furniture.
     "Item: I also give and bequeath to my well beloved son Bird Nichols and to his heirs and assigns, all that tract or parcel of land on both sides of Black Walnut Creek containing four hundred and fifty acres more or less with a plantation thereon according to a survey made by Col. Wooding it being part of my order of Counsel, joining the lines of my Manor plantation, likewise Agnes Robertson her land I have conveyed to her by the consent of her mother &c. I also do give to my aforesaid son Bird Nichols two negroes namely Peter & Patt, also 2 cows & calves & 1 heifer without a calf, 1 bed & furniture. It is my will that my son David Nichols shall within 12 months after my decease & the decease or wodowhood of my wife, pay Bird Nichols fifteen pounds. as his part of a little negro named Jenny. It is also my will that in case I shall depart this life before I sell the present crop that my Executors shall deliver to Bird and David Nichols one Hdd of Tobo. about 1200 pounds to be divided equal, to purchase each a suit of Cloths.
     "Item: I give and bequeath to well-beloved son David Nichols and to his heirs and assigns all that tract or parcel of land contiguous to my Mantion House, situate in fork of Black Walnut Creek containing five hundred and eighty acres more or less, according to a survey made by Co. Robert Wooding it being part of my Order of Counsel aforesaid. Also, three negroes Namely, Lewis, Frank and Jenny, also two cows & calves & 1 heifer without a calf, also 1 bed & furniture.
     "Item: I give and bequeath to my two sons Bird & David Nichols & my daughter Nanny to each of them two ewes.
     "Item: I do likewise give to my two sons Bird and David aforesaid my still, cart and gun to be used between them and each to have as like property in them, also the two Guns the largest to Bird.
     "Item: I give likewise to my Daughter Nanny and my two sons Bird and David Nichols to each two dishes and basin and six plates and six knives and forks also it is my will and desire that all the above legacies to be delivered to Nanny, Bird, and David Nichols at the decease or intermarrying of my wife aforesaid.
     "Item: I give to my well beloved son John Nichols all my wearing cloths of every kind and it my will that the remainder of my stock household furniture and every other thing that can be shared of the plantation shall be sold after the dec. or intermarrying of my aforesaid wife at six months credit by my Executors and if any of my children should die without lawful heirs their portions be equally divided among the survivors.
     "Item: I hereby appoint and constitute Mat Sims and my loving sons William and John Nichols to be Executors of that my past Will and Testament.
     "In Witness where of I have set my hand affixed my seals this day and date as above
     "In presence of Matthew Sims, Edward Parker, Ralph Owen

     "At a court continued and held for Halifax County the 22nd day of April 1774 This last Will and Testament of John Nichols deceased was presented in Court by William Nichols one of the Executors herein named who made oath hereto according to law. An the same being proved by the oaths of two of the Witnesses hereto was ordered to be recorded and on the motion of this Executor certificate was granted him for obtaining a probate hereof in due form giving security whereupon he with James Cobbs and Abraham Legrand his security entered into and acknowledged their Bond with condition according to law. And Matthew Sims one other of the executors herein named refused take upon himself the burden and execution thereof and liberty is reserved to the other Executor to join in probate.

Ancestry.com - Virginia, Wills and Probate Records, 1652-1983
Source Citation

     In John Nichols's will dated 8 October 1773 at Halifax Co., Virginia, USA, John Nichols was named as executor;      "In the name of God Amen, the 8th day of October in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and seventy three - I John Nichols of the County of Halifax being very sick and weak in body but in perfect mind & memory thanks be to God. Therefore, calling to mind the mortality of my Boddy and knowing it is appointed for all men once to die do make and ordain this my last Will and Testament that is to say principally and first of all -
     "I give recommend my soul to God that gave it and for my body I recommend to the earth to be buried in a Christian and decent manner at the discretion of my Executors nothing doubting that at the general Resurrection I shall receive the same again by the mighty power of God and as touching such Worldly Estate wherewith it is pleased God to bless me with in this life - I give devise and dispose in manner and form following.
     "I empress it is my will and I do order that in the first place all my debts to be paid and satisfied.
     "Item: I leave to my well beloving wife Mary Nichols during her widowhood only, seven negroes namely, Peter, Lewis, Frank, Patt, Milley, Hannah and Jenny, also my Manor plantation together with 580 [acres] of land contiguous thereto according to a survey lately made by Robert Wooding together with my household furniture, utensils, &c. Also, my still together with my riding horse, Boo, together with all stocks & moveables of all kinds.
     "Item: I have given to my sons, William, John & Jesse Nichols & also to my daughters Sary Robertson, Betty Owen and Peggy Legrand, themselves their heirs and assigns all the land negroes cattle hoggs beds pewter & every other thing that I before lent them to their only proper use & behoof of them & their heirs as their parts of my estate.
     "Item: To my well beloved son Ambrose Nichols & to his heirs and assigns all that tract or parcel of land joining his brother Jesse, Hardwick, and Peter Hudson situate on the branches of Clover Creek containing four hundred and sixth eight acres more or less according to a survey made by Robert Wooding, it being part of Order of Counsel, also 50 pounds Current Money to be raised out of my estate by my Executors by selling anything that can be best spared also anything that has been delivered him.
     "Item: I give and bequest to my well beloved daughter Nanny Nichols and her heirs and assigns all the tract of or parcel of land situate on the branches of Difficult and Black Walnut Creeks and on both sides of Stewarts Ferry Road joining the lines of Agnes Robertson, Thomas Hope and the outlines of my Order and John Jones, containing four hundred acres more or less according to a survey made by Robert Wooding being part of my order aforesaid. I also give to my Daughter aforesaid two negroes namely, Milley and Hannah, 1 horse or mare, 2 cows and calves & 1 heifer together with 1 feather bed & furniture.
     "Item: I also give and bequeath to my well beloved son Bird Nichols and to his heirs and assigns, all that tract or parcel of land on both sides of Black Walnut Creek containing four hundred and fifty acres more or less with a plantation thereon according to a survey made by Col. Wooding it being part of my order of Counsel, joining the lines of my Manor plantation, likewise Agnes Robertson her land I have conveyed to her by the consent of her mother &c. I also do give to my aforesaid son Bird Nichols two negroes namely Peter & Patt, also 2 cows & calves & 1 heifer without a calf, 1 bed & furniture. It is my will that my son David Nichols shall within 12 months after my decease & the decease or wodowhood of my wife, pay Bird Nichols fifteen pounds. as his part of a little negro named Jenny. It is also my will that in case I shall depart this life before I sell the present crop that my Executors shall deliver to Bird and David Nichols one Hdd of Tobo. about 1200 pounds to be divided equal, to purchase each a suit of Cloths.
     "Item: I give and bequeath to well-beloved son David Nichols and to his heirs and assigns all that tract or parcel of land contiguous to my Mantion House, situate in fork of Black Walnut Creek containing five hundred and eighty acres more or less, according to a survey made by Co. Robert Wooding it being part of my Order of Counsel aforesaid. Also, three negroes Namely, Lewis, Frank and Jenny, also two cows & calves & 1 heifer without a calf, also 1 bed & furniture.
     "Item: I give and bequeath to my two sons Bird & David Nichols & my daughter Nanny to each of them two ewes.
     "Item: I do likewise give to my two sons Bird and David aforesaid my still, cart and gun to be used between them and each to have as like property in them, also the two Guns the largest to Bird.
     "Item: I give likewise to my Daughter Nanny and my two sons Bird and David Nichols to each two dishes and basin and six plates and six knives and forks also it is my will and desire that all the above legacies to be delivered to Nanny, Bird, and David Nichols at the decease or intermarrying of my wife aforesaid.
     "Item: I give to my well beloved son John Nichols all my wearing cloths of every kind and it my will that the remainder of my stock household furniture and every other thing that can be shared of the plantation shall be sold after the dec. or intermarrying of my aforesaid wife at six months credit by my Executors and if any of my children should die without lawful heirs their portions be equally divided among the survivors.
     "Item: I hereby appoint and constitute Mat Sims and my loving sons William and John Nichols to be Executors of that my past Will and Testament.
     "In Witness where of I have set my hand affixed my seals this day and date as above
     "In presence of Matthew Sims, Edward Parker, Ralph Owen

     "At a court continued and held for Halifax County the 22nd day of April 1774 This last Will and Testament of John Nichols deceased was presented in Court by William Nichols one of the Executors herein named who made oath hereto according to law. An the same being proved by the oaths of two of the Witnesses hereto was ordered to be recorded and on the motion of this Executor certificate was granted him for obtaining a probate hereof in due form giving security whereupon he with James Cobbs and Abraham Legrand his security entered into and acknowledged their Bond with condition according to law. And Matthew Sims one other of the executors herein named refused take upon himself the burden and execution thereof and liberty is reserved to the other Executor to join in probate.

Ancestry.com - Virginia, Wills and Probate Records, 1652-1983
Source Citation

     In John Nichols's will dated 8 October 1773 at Halifax Co., Virginia, USA, Jesse Nichols was named as an heir;      "In the name of God Amen, the 8th day of October in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and seventy three - I John Nichols of the County of Halifax being very sick and weak in body but in perfect mind & memory thanks be to God. Therefore, calling to mind the mortality of my Boddy and knowing it is appointed for all men once to die do make and ordain this my last Will and Testament that is to say principally and first of all -
     "I give recommend my soul to God that gave it and for my body I recommend to the earth to be buried in a Christian and decent manner at the discretion of my Executors nothing doubting that at the general Resurrection I shall receive the same again by the mighty power of God and as touching such Worldly Estate wherewith it is pleased God to bless me with in this life - I give devise and dispose in manner and form following.
     "I empress it is my will and I do order that in the first place all my debts to be paid and satisfied.
     "Item: I leave to my well beloving wife Mary Nichols during her widowhood only, seven negroes namely, Peter, Lewis, Frank, Patt, Milley, Hannah and Jenny, also my Manor plantation together with 580 [acres] of land contiguous thereto according to a survey lately made by Robert Wooding together with my household furniture, utensils, &c. Also, my still together with my riding horse, Boo, together with all stocks & moveables of all kinds.
     "Item: I have given to my sons, William, John & Jesse Nichols & also to my daughters Sary Robertson, Betty Owen and Peggy Legrand, themselves their heirs and assigns all the land negroes cattle hoggs beds pewter & every other thing that I before lent them to their only proper use & behoof of them & their heirs as their parts of my estate.
     "Item: To my well beloved son Ambrose Nichols & to his heirs and assigns all that tract or parcel of land joining his brother Jesse, Hardwick, and Peter Hudson situate on the branches of Clover Creek containing four hundred and sixth eight acres more or less according to a survey made by Robert Wooding, it being part of Order of Counsel, also 50 pounds Current Money to be raised out of my estate by my Executors by selling anything that can be best spared also anything that has been delivered him.
     "Item: I give and bequest to my well beloved daughter Nanny Nichols and her heirs and assigns all the tract of or parcel of land situate on the branches of Difficult and Black Walnut Creeks and on both sides of Stewarts Ferry Road joining the lines of Agnes Robertson, Thomas Hope and the outlines of my Order and John Jones, containing four hundred acres more or less according to a survey made by Robert Wooding being part of my order aforesaid. I also give to my Daughter aforesaid two negroes namely, Milley and Hannah, 1 horse or mare, 2 cows and calves & 1 heifer together with 1 feather bed & furniture.
     "Item: I also give and bequeath to my well beloved son Bird Nichols and to his heirs and assigns, all that tract or parcel of land on both sides of Black Walnut Creek containing four hundred and fifty acres more or less with a plantation thereon according to a survey made by Col. Wooding it being part of my order of Counsel, joining the lines of my Manor plantation, likewise Agnes Robertson her land I have conveyed to her by the consent of her mother &c. I also do give to my aforesaid son Bird Nichols two negroes namely Peter & Patt, also 2 cows & calves & 1 heifer without a calf, 1 bed & furniture. It is my will that my son David Nichols shall within 12 months after my decease & the decease or wodowhood of my wife, pay Bird Nichols fifteen pounds. as his part of a little negro named Jenny. It is also my will that in case I shall depart this life before I sell the present crop that my Executors shall deliver to Bird and David Nichols one Hdd of Tobo. about 1200 pounds to be divided equal, to purchase each a suit of Cloths.
     "Item: I give and bequeath to well-beloved son David Nichols and to his heirs and assigns all that tract or parcel of land contiguous to my Mantion House, situate in fork of Black Walnut Creek containing five hundred and eighty acres more or less, according to a survey made by Co. Robert Wooding it being part of my Order of Counsel aforesaid. Also, three negroes Namely, Lewis, Frank and Jenny, also two cows & calves & 1 heifer without a calf, also 1 bed & furniture.
     "Item: I give and bequeath to my two sons Bird & David Nichols & my daughter Nanny to each of them two ewes.
     "Item: I do likewise give to my two sons Bird and David aforesaid my still, cart and gun to be used between them and each to have as like property in them, also the two Guns the largest to Bird.
     "Item: I give likewise to my Daughter Nanny and my two sons Bird and David Nichols to each two dishes and basin and six plates and six knives and forks also it is my will and desire that all the above legacies to be delivered to Nanny, Bird, and David Nichols at the decease or intermarrying of my wife aforesaid.
     "Item: I give to my well beloved son John Nichols all my wearing cloths of every kind and it my will that the remainder of my stock household furniture and every other thing that can be shared of the plantation shall be sold after the dec. or intermarrying of my aforesaid wife at six months credit by my Executors and if any of my children should die without lawful heirs their portions be equally divided among the survivors.
     "Item: I hereby appoint and constitute Mat Sims and my loving sons William and John Nichols to be Executors of that my past Will and Testament.
     "In Witness where of I have set my hand affixed my seals this day and date as above
     "In presence of Matthew Sims, Edward Parker, Ralph Owen

     "At a court continued and held for Halifax County the 22nd day of April 1774 This last Will and Testament of John Nichols deceased was presented in Court by William Nichols one of the Executors herein named who made oath hereto according to law. An the same being proved by the oaths of two of the Witnesses hereto was ordered to be recorded and on the motion of this Executor certificate was granted him for obtaining a probate hereof in due form giving security whereupon he with James Cobbs and Abraham Legrand his security entered into and acknowledged their Bond with condition according to law. And Matthew Sims one other of the executors herein named refused take upon himself the burden and execution thereof and liberty is reserved to the other Executor to join in probate.

Ancestry.com - Virginia, Wills and Probate Records, 1652-1983
Source Citation

     Elizabeth "Betty" Nichols married (?) Owen.¹

     In John Nichols's will dated 8 October 1773 at Halifax Co., Virginia, USA, Elizabeth "Betty" Nichols was named as an heir;      "In the name of God Amen, the 8th day of October in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and seventy three - I John Nichols of the County of Halifax being very sick and weak in body but in perfect mind & memory thanks be to God. Therefore, calling to mind the mortality of my Boddy and knowing it is appointed for all men once to die do make and ordain this my last Will and Testament that is to say principally and first of all -
     "I give recommend my soul to God that gave it and for my body I recommend to the earth to be buried in a Christian and decent manner at the discretion of my Executors nothing doubting that at the general Resurrection I shall receive the same again by the mighty power of God and as touching such Worldly Estate wherewith it is pleased God to bless me with in this life - I give devise and dispose in manner and form following.
     "I empress it is my will and I do order that in the first place all my debts to be paid and satisfied.
     "Item: I leave to my well beloving wife Mary Nichols during her widowhood only, seven negroes namely, Peter, Lewis, Frank, Patt, Milley, Hannah and Jenny, also my Manor plantation together with 580 [acres] of land contiguous thereto according to a survey lately made by Robert Wooding together with my household furniture, utensils, &c. Also, my still together with my riding horse, Boo, together with all stocks & moveables of all kinds.
     "Item: I have given to my sons, William, John & Jesse Nichols & also to my daughters Sary Robertson, Betty Owen and Peggy Legrand, themselves their heirs and assigns all the land negroes cattle hoggs beds pewter & every other thing that I before lent them to their only proper use & behoof of them & their heirs as their parts of my estate.
     "Item: To my well beloved son Ambrose Nichols & to his heirs and assigns all that tract or parcel of land joining his brother Jesse, Hardwick, and Peter Hudson situate on the branches of Clover Creek containing four hundred and sixth eight acres more or less according to a survey made by Robert Wooding, it being part of Order of Counsel, also 50 pounds Current Money to be raised out of my estate by my Executors by selling anything that can be best spared also anything that has been delivered him.
     "Item: I give and bequest to my well beloved daughter Nanny Nichols and her heirs and assigns all the tract of or parcel of land situate on the branches of Difficult and Black Walnut Creeks and on both sides of Stewarts Ferry Road joining the lines of Agnes Robertson, Thomas Hope and the outlines of my Order and John Jones, containing four hundred acres more or less according to a survey made by Robert Wooding being part of my order aforesaid. I also give to my Daughter aforesaid two negroes namely, Milley and Hannah, 1 horse or mare, 2 cows and calves & 1 heifer together with 1 feather bed & furniture.
     "Item: I also give and bequeath to my well beloved son Bird Nichols and to his heirs and assigns, all that tract or parcel of land on both sides of Black Walnut Creek containing four hundred and fifty acres more or less with a plantation thereon according to a survey made by Col. Wooding it being part of my order of Counsel, joining the lines of my Manor plantation, likewise Agnes Robertson her land I have conveyed to her by the consent of her mother &c. I also do give to my aforesaid son Bird Nichols two negroes namely Peter & Patt, also 2 cows & calves & 1 heifer without a calf, 1 bed & furniture. It is my will that my son David Nichols shall within 12 months after my decease & the decease or wodowhood of my wife, pay Bird Nichols fifteen pounds. as his part of a little negro named Jenny. It is also my will that in case I shall depart this life before I sell the present crop that my Executors shall deliver to Bird and David Nichols one Hdd of Tobo. about 1200 pounds to be divided equal, to purchase each a suit of Cloths.
     "Item: I give and bequeath to well-beloved son David Nichols and to his heirs and assigns all that tract or parcel of land contiguous to my Mantion House, situate in fork of Black Walnut Creek containing five hundred and eighty acres more or less, according to a survey made by Co. Robert Wooding it being part of my Order of Counsel aforesaid. Also, three negroes Namely, Lewis, Frank and Jenny, also two cows & calves & 1 heifer without a calf, also 1 bed & furniture.
     "Item: I give and bequeath to my two sons Bird & David Nichols & my daughter Nanny to each of them two ewes.
     "Item: I do likewise give to my two sons Bird and David aforesaid my still, cart and gun to be used between them and each to have as like property in them, also the two Guns the largest to Bird.
     "Item: I give likewise to my Daughter Nanny and my two sons Bird and David Nichols to each two dishes and basin and six plates and six knives and forks also it is my will and desire that all the above legacies to be delivered to Nanny, Bird, and David Nichols at the decease or intermarrying of my wife aforesaid.
     "Item: I give to my well beloved son John Nichols all my wearing cloths of every kind and it my will that the remainder of my stock household furniture and every other thing that can be shared of the plantation shall be sold after the dec. or intermarrying of my aforesaid wife at six months credit by my Executors and if any of my children should die without lawful heirs their portions be equally divided among the survivors.
     "Item: I hereby appoint and constitute Mat Sims and my loving sons William and John Nichols to be Executors of that my past Will and Testament.
     "In Witness where of I have set my hand affixed my seals this day and date as above
     "In presence of Matthew Sims, Edward Parker, Ralph Owen

     "At a court continued and held for Halifax County the 22nd day of April 1774 This last Will and Testament of John Nichols deceased was presented in Court by William Nichols one of the Executors herein named who made oath hereto according to law. An the same being proved by the oaths of two of the Witnesses hereto was ordered to be recorded and on the motion of this Executor certificate was granted him for obtaining a probate hereof in due form giving security whereupon he with James Cobbs and Abraham Legrand his security entered into and acknowledged their Bond with condition according to law. And Matthew Sims one other of the executors herein named refused take upon himself the burden and execution thereof and liberty is reserved to the other Executor to join in probate.

Ancestry.com - Virginia, Wills and Probate Records, 1652-1983
Source Citation

     Peggy Nichols married (?) Legrand.¹

     In John Nichols's will dated 8 October 1773 at Halifax Co., Virginia, USA, Peggy Nichols was named as an heir;      "In the name of God Amen, the 8th day of October in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and seventy three - I John Nichols of the County of Halifax being very sick and weak in body but in perfect mind & memory thanks be to God. Therefore, calling to mind the mortality of my Boddy and knowing it is appointed for all men once to die do make and ordain this my last Will and Testament that is to say principally and first of all -
     "I give recommend my soul to God that gave it and for my body I recommend to the earth to be buried in a Christian and decent manner at the discretion of my Executors nothing doubting that at the general Resurrection I shall receive the same again by the mighty power of God and as touching such Worldly Estate wherewith it is pleased God to bless me with in this life - I give devise and dispose in manner and form following.
     "I empress it is my will and I do order that in the first place all my debts to be paid and satisfied.
     "Item: I leave to my well beloving wife Mary Nichols during her widowhood only, seven negroes namely, Peter, Lewis, Frank, Patt, Milley, Hannah and Jenny, also my Manor plantation together with 580 [acres] of land contiguous thereto according to a survey lately made by Robert Wooding together with my household furniture, utensils, &c. Also, my still together with my riding horse, Boo, together with all stocks & moveables of all kinds.
     "Item: I have given to my sons, William, John & Jesse Nichols & also to my daughters Sary Robertson, Betty Owen and Peggy Legrand, themselves their heirs and assigns all the land negroes cattle hoggs beds pewter & every other thing that I before lent them to their only proper use & behoof of them & their heirs as their parts of my estate.
     "Item: To my well beloved son Ambrose Nichols & to his heirs and assigns all that tract or parcel of land joining his brother Jesse, Hardwick, and Peter Hudson situate on the branches of Clover Creek containing four hundred and sixth eight acres more or less according to a survey made by Robert Wooding, it being part of Order of Counsel, also 50 pounds Current Money to be raised out of my estate by my Executors by selling anything that can be best spared also anything that has been delivered him.
     "Item: I give and bequest to my well beloved daughter Nanny Nichols and her heirs and assigns all the tract of or parcel of land situate on the branches of Difficult and Black Walnut Creeks and on both sides of Stewarts Ferry Road joining the lines of Agnes Robertson, Thomas Hope and the outlines of my Order and John Jones, containing four hundred acres more or less according to a survey made by Robert Wooding being part of my order aforesaid. I also give to my Daughter aforesaid two negroes namely, Milley and Hannah, 1 horse or mare, 2 cows and calves & 1 heifer together with 1 feather bed & furniture.
     "Item: I also give and bequeath to my well beloved son Bird Nichols and to his heirs and assigns, all that tract or parcel of land on both sides of Black Walnut Creek containing four hundred and fifty acres more or less with a plantation thereon according to a survey made by Col. Wooding it being part of my order of Counsel, joining the lines of my Manor plantation, likewise Agnes Robertson her land I have conveyed to her by the consent of her mother &c. I also do give to my aforesaid son Bird Nichols two negroes namely Peter & Patt, also 2 cows & calves & 1 heifer without a calf, 1 bed & furniture. It is my will that my son David Nichols shall within 12 months after my decease & the decease or wodowhood of my wife, pay Bird Nichols fifteen pounds. as his part of a little negro named Jenny. It is also my will that in case I shall depart this life before I sell the present crop that my Executors shall deliver to Bird and David Nichols one Hdd of Tobo. about 1200 pounds to be divided equal, to purchase each a suit of Cloths.
     "Item: I give and bequeath to well-beloved son David Nichols and to his heirs and assigns all that tract or parcel of land contiguous to my Mantion House, situate in fork of Black Walnut Creek containing five hundred and eighty acres more or less, according to a survey made by Co. Robert Wooding it being part of my Order of Counsel aforesaid. Also, three negroes Namely, Lewis, Frank and Jenny, also two cows & calves & 1 heifer without a calf, also 1 bed & furniture.
     "Item: I give and bequeath to my two sons Bird & David Nichols & my daughter Nanny to each of them two ewes.
     "Item: I do likewise give to my two sons Bird and David aforesaid my still, cart and gun to be used between them and each to have as like property in them, also the two Guns the largest to Bird.
     "Item: I give likewise to my Daughter Nanny and my two sons Bird and David Nichols to each two dishes and basin and six plates and six knives and forks also it is my will and desire that all the above legacies to be delivered to Nanny, Bird, and David Nichols at the decease or intermarrying of my wife aforesaid.
     "Item: I give to my well beloved son John Nichols all my wearing cloths of every kind and it my will that the remainder of my stock household furniture and every other thing that can be shared of the plantation shall be sold after the dec. or intermarrying of my aforesaid wife at six months credit by my Executors and if any of my children should die without lawful heirs their portions be equally divided among the survivors.
     "Item: I hereby appoint and constitute Mat Sims and my loving sons William and John Nichols to be Executors of that my past Will and Testament.
     "In Witness where of I have set my hand affixed my seals this day and date as above
     "In presence of Matthew Sims, Edward Parker, Ralph Owen

     "At a court continued and held for Halifax County the 22nd day of April 1774 This last Will and Testament of John Nichols deceased was presented in Court by William Nichols one of the Executors herein named who made oath hereto according to law. An the same being proved by the oaths of two of the Witnesses hereto was ordered to be recorded and on the motion of this Executor certificate was granted him for obtaining a probate hereof in due form giving security whereupon he with James Cobbs and Abraham Legrand his security entered into and acknowledged their Bond with condition according to law. And Matthew Sims one other of the executors herein named refused take upon himself the burden and execution thereof and liberty is reserved to the other Executor to join in probate.

Ancestry.com - Virginia, Wills and Probate Records, 1652-1983
Source Citation

     In John Nichols's will dated 8 October 1773 at Halifax Co., Virginia, USA, Ambrose Nichols was named as an heir;      "In the name of God Amen, the 8th day of October in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and seventy three - I John Nichols of the County of Halifax being very sick and weak in body but in perfect mind & memory thanks be to God. Therefore, calling to mind the mortality of my Boddy and knowing it is appointed for all men once to die do make and ordain this my last Will and Testament that is to say principally and first of all -
     "I give recommend my soul to God that gave it and for my body I recommend to the earth to be buried in a Christian and decent manner at the discretion of my Executors nothing doubting that at the general Resurrection I shall receive the same again by the mighty power of God and as touching such Worldly Estate wherewith it is pleased God to bless me with in this life - I give devise and dispose in manner and form following.
     "I empress it is my will and I do order that in the first place all my debts to be paid and satisfied.
     "Item: I leave to my well beloving wife Mary Nichols during her widowhood only, seven negroes namely, Peter, Lewis, Frank, Patt, Milley, Hannah and Jenny, also my Manor plantation together with 580 [acres] of land contiguous thereto according to a survey lately made by Robert Wooding together with my household furniture, utensils, &c. Also, my still together with my riding horse, Boo, together with all stocks & moveables of all kinds.
     "Item: I have given to my sons, William, John & Jesse Nichols & also to my daughters Sary Robertson, Betty Owen and Peggy Legrand, themselves their heirs and assigns all the land negroes cattle hoggs beds pewter & every other thing that I before lent them to their only proper use & behoof of them & their heirs as their parts of my estate.
     "Item: To my well beloved son Ambrose Nichols & to his heirs and assigns all that tract or parcel of land joining his brother Jesse, Hardwick, and Peter Hudson situate on the branches of Clover Creek containing four hundred and sixth eight acres more or less according to a survey made by Robert Wooding, it being part of Order of Counsel, also 50 pounds Current Money to be raised out of my estate by my Executors by selling anything that can be best spared also anything that has been delivered him.
     "Item: I give and bequest to my well beloved daughter Nanny Nichols and her heirs and assigns all the tract of or parcel of land situate on the branches of Difficult and Black Walnut Creeks and on both sides of Stewarts Ferry Road joining the lines of Agnes Robertson, Thomas Hope and the outlines of my Order and John Jones, containing four hundred acres more or less according to a survey made by Robert Wooding being part of my order aforesaid. I also give to my Daughter aforesaid two negroes namely, Milley and Hannah, 1 horse or mare, 2 cows and calves & 1 heifer together with 1 feather bed & furniture.
     "Item: I also give and bequeath to my well beloved son Bird Nichols and to his heirs and assigns, all that tract or parcel of land on both sides of Black Walnut Creek containing four hundred and fifty acres more or less with a plantation thereon according to a survey made by Col. Wooding it being part of my order of Counsel, joining the lines of my Manor plantation, likewise Agnes Robertson her land I have conveyed to her by the consent of her mother &c. I also do give to my aforesaid son Bird Nichols two negroes namely Peter & Patt, also 2 cows & calves & 1 heifer without a calf, 1 bed & furniture. It is my will that my son David Nichols shall within 12 months after my decease & the decease or wodowhood of my wife, pay Bird Nichols fifteen pounds. as his part of a little negro named Jenny. It is also my will that in case I shall depart this life before I sell the present crop that my Executors shall deliver to Bird and David Nichols one Hdd of Tobo. about 1200 pounds to be divided equal, to purchase each a suit of Cloths.
     "Item: I give and bequeath to well-beloved son David Nichols and to his heirs and assigns all that tract or parcel of land contiguous to my Mantion House, situate in fork of Black Walnut Creek containing five hundred and eighty acres more or less, according to a survey made by Co. Robert Wooding it being part of my Order of Counsel aforesaid. Also, three negroes Namely, Lewis, Frank and Jenny, also two cows & calves & 1 heifer without a calf, also 1 bed & furniture.
     "Item: I give and bequeath to my two sons Bird & David Nichols & my daughter Nanny to each of them two ewes.
     "Item: I do likewise give to my two sons Bird and David aforesaid my still, cart and gun to be used between them and each to have as like property in them, also the two Guns the largest to Bird.
     "Item: I give likewise to my Daughter Nanny and my two sons Bird and David Nichols to each two dishes and basin and six plates and six knives and forks also it is my will and desire that all the above legacies to be delivered to Nanny, Bird, and David Nichols at the decease or intermarrying of my wife aforesaid.
     "Item: I give to my well beloved son John Nichols all my wearing cloths of every kind and it my will that the remainder of my stock household furniture and every other thing that can be shared of the plantation shall be sold after the dec. or intermarrying of my aforesaid wife at six months credit by my Executors and if any of my children should die without lawful heirs their portions be equally divided among the survivors.
     "Item: I hereby appoint and constitute Mat Sims and my loving sons William and John Nichols to be Executors of that my past Will and Testament.
     "In Witness where of I have set my hand affixed my seals this day and date as above
     "In presence of Matthew Sims, Edward Parker, Ralph Owen

     "At a court continued and held for Halifax County the 22nd day of April 1774 This last Will and Testament of John Nichols deceased was presented in Court by William Nichols one of the Executors herein named who made oath hereto according to law. An the same being proved by the oaths of two of the Witnesses hereto was ordered to be recorded and on the motion of this Executor certificate was granted him for obtaining a probate hereof in due form giving security whereupon he with James Cobbs and Abraham Legrand his security entered into and acknowledged their Bond with condition according to law. And Matthew Sims one other of the executors herein named refused take upon himself the burden and execution thereof and liberty is reserved to the other Executor to join in probate.

Ancestry.com - Virginia, Wills and Probate Records, 1652-1983
Source Citation

     In John Nichols's will dated 8 October 1773 at Halifax Co., Virginia, USA, Nanny Nichols was named as an heir;      "In the name of God Amen, the 8th day of October in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and seventy three - I John Nichols of the County of Halifax being very sick and weak in body but in perfect mind & memory thanks be to God. Therefore, calling to mind the mortality of my Boddy and knowing it is appointed for all men once to die do make and ordain this my last Will and Testament that is to say principally and first of all -
     "I give recommend my soul to God that gave it and for my body I recommend to the earth to be buried in a Christian and decent manner at the discretion of my Executors nothing doubting that at the general Resurrection I shall receive the same again by the mighty power of God and as touching such Worldly Estate wherewith it is pleased God to bless me with in this life - I give devise and dispose in manner and form following.
     "I empress it is my will and I do order that in the first place all my debts to be paid and satisfied.
     "Item: I leave to my well beloving wife Mary Nichols during her widowhood only, seven negroes namely, Peter, Lewis, Frank, Patt, Milley, Hannah and Jenny, also my Manor plantation together with 580 [acres] of land contiguous thereto according to a survey lately made by Robert Wooding together with my household furniture, utensils, &c. Also, my still together with my riding horse, Boo, together with all stocks & moveables of all kinds.
     "Item: I have given to my sons, William, John & Jesse Nichols & also to my daughters Sary Robertson, Betty Owen and Peggy Legrand, themselves their heirs and assigns all the land negroes cattle hoggs beds pewter & every other thing that I before lent them to their only proper use & behoof of them & their heirs as their parts of my estate.
     "Item: To my well beloved son Ambrose Nichols & to his heirs and assigns all that tract or parcel of land joining his brother Jesse, Hardwick, and Peter Hudson situate on the branches of Clover Creek containing four hundred and sixth eight acres more or less according to a survey made by Robert Wooding, it being part of Order of Counsel, also 50 pounds Current Money to be raised out of my estate by my Executors by selling anything that can be best spared also anything that has been delivered him.
     "Item: I give and bequest to my well beloved daughter Nanny Nichols and her heirs and assigns all the tract of or parcel of land situate on the branches of Difficult and Black Walnut Creeks and on both sides of Stewarts Ferry Road joining the lines of Agnes Robertson, Thomas Hope and the outlines of my Order and John Jones, containing four hundred acres more or less according to a survey made by Robert Wooding being part of my order aforesaid. I also give to my Daughter aforesaid two negroes namely, Milley and Hannah, 1 horse or mare, 2 cows and calves & 1 heifer together with 1 feather bed & furniture.
     "Item: I also give and bequeath to my well beloved son Bird Nichols and to his heirs and assigns, all that tract or parcel of land on both sides of Black Walnut Creek containing four hundred and fifty acres more or less with a plantation thereon according to a survey made by Col. Wooding it being part of my order of Counsel, joining the lines of my Manor plantation, likewise Agnes Robertson her land I have conveyed to her by the consent of her mother &c. I also do give to my aforesaid son Bird Nichols two negroes namely Peter & Patt, also 2 cows & calves & 1 heifer without a calf, 1 bed & furniture. It is my will that my son David Nichols shall within 12 months after my decease & the decease or wodowhood of my wife, pay Bird Nichols fifteen pounds. as his part of a little negro named Jenny. It is also my will that in case I shall depart this life before I sell the present crop that my Executors shall deliver to Bird and David Nichols one Hdd of Tobo. about 1200 pounds to be divided equal, to purchase each a suit of Cloths.
     "Item: I give and bequeath to well-beloved son David Nichols and to his heirs and assigns all that tract or parcel of land contiguous to my Mantion House, situate in fork of Black Walnut Creek containing five hundred and eighty acres more or less, according to a survey made by Co. Robert Wooding it being part of my Order of Counsel aforesaid. Also, three negroes Namely, Lewis, Frank and Jenny, also two cows & calves & 1 heifer without a calf, also 1 bed & furniture.
     "Item: I give and bequeath to my two sons Bird & David Nichols & my daughter Nanny to each of them two ewes.
     "Item: I do likewise give to my two sons Bird and David aforesaid my still, cart and gun to be used between them and each to have as like property in them, also the two Guns the largest to Bird.
     "Item: I give likewise to my Daughter Nanny and my two sons Bird and David Nichols to each two dishes and basin and six plates and six knives and forks also it is my will and desire that all the above legacies to be delivered to Nanny, Bird, and David Nichols at the decease or intermarrying of my wife aforesaid.
     "Item: I give to my well beloved son John Nichols all my wearing cloths of every kind and it my will that the remainder of my stock household furniture and every other thing that can be shared of the plantation shall be sold after the dec. or intermarrying of my aforesaid wife at six months credit by my Executors and if any of my children should die without lawful heirs their portions be equally divided among the survivors.
     "Item: I hereby appoint and constitute Mat Sims and my loving sons William and John Nichols to be Executors of that my past Will and Testament.
     "In Witness where of I have set my hand affixed my seals this day and date as above
     "In presence of Matthew Sims, Edward Parker, Ralph Owen

     "At a court continued and held for Halifax County the 22nd day of April 1774 This last Will and Testament of John Nichols deceased was presented in Court by William Nichols one of the Executors herein named who made oath hereto according to law. An the same being proved by the oaths of two of the Witnesses hereto was ordered to be recorded and on the motion of this Executor certificate was granted him for obtaining a probate hereof in due form giving security whereupon he with James Cobbs and Abraham Legrand his security entered into and acknowledged their Bond with condition according to law. And Matthew Sims one other of the executors herein named refused take upon himself the burden and execution thereof and liberty is reserved to the other Executor to join in probate.

Ancestry.com - Virginia, Wills and Probate Records, 1652-1983
Source Citation

     In John Nichols's will dated 8 October 1773 at Halifax Co., Virginia, USA, David Nichols was named as an heir;      "In the name of God Amen, the 8th day of October in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and seventy three - I John Nichols of the County of Halifax being very sick and weak in body but in perfect mind & memory thanks be to God. Therefore, calling to mind the mortality of my Boddy and knowing it is appointed for all men once to die do make and ordain this my last Will and Testament that is to say principally and first of all -
     "I give recommend my soul to God that gave it and for my body I recommend to the earth to be buried in a Christian and decent manner at the discretion of my Executors nothing doubting that at the general Resurrection I shall receive the same again by the mighty power of God and as touching such Worldly Estate wherewith it is pleased God to bless me with in this life - I give devise and dispose in manner and form following.
     "I empress it is my will and I do order that in the first place all my debts to be paid and satisfied.
     "Item: I leave to my well beloving wife Mary Nichols during her widowhood only, seven negroes namely, Peter, Lewis, Frank, Patt, Milley, Hannah and Jenny, also my Manor plantation together with 580 [acres] of land contiguous thereto according to a survey lately made by Robert Wooding together with my household furniture, utensils, &c. Also, my still together with my riding horse, Boo, together with all stocks & moveables of all kinds.
     "Item: I have given to my sons, William, John & Jesse Nichols & also to my daughters Sary Robertson, Betty Owen and Peggy Legrand, themselves their heirs and assigns all the land negroes cattle hoggs beds pewter & every other thing that I before lent them to their only proper use & behoof of them & their heirs as their parts of my estate.
     "Item: To my well beloved son Ambrose Nichols & to his heirs and assigns all that tract or parcel of land joining his brother Jesse, Hardwick, and Peter Hudson situate on the branches of Clover Creek containing four hundred and sixth eight acres more or less according to a survey made by Robert Wooding, it being part of Order of Counsel, also 50 pounds Current Money to be raised out of my estate by my Executors by selling anything that can be best spared also anything that has been delivered him.
     "Item: I give and bequest to my well beloved daughter Nanny Nichols and her heirs and assigns all the tract of or parcel of land situate on the branches of Difficult and Black Walnut Creeks and on both sides of Stewarts Ferry Road joining the lines of Agnes Robertson, Thomas Hope and the outlines of my Order and John Jones, containing four hundred acres more or less according to a survey made by Robert Wooding being part of my order aforesaid. I also give to my Daughter aforesaid two negroes namely, Milley and Hannah, 1 horse or mare, 2 cows and calves & 1 heifer together with 1 feather bed & furniture.
     "Item: I also give and bequeath to my well beloved son Bird Nichols and to his heirs and assigns, all that tract or parcel of land on both sides of Black Walnut Creek containing four hundred and fifty acres more or less with a plantation thereon according to a survey made by Col. Wooding it being part of my order of Counsel, joining the lines of my Manor plantation, likewise Agnes Robertson her land I have conveyed to her by the consent of her mother &c. I also do give to my aforesaid son Bird Nichols two negroes namely Peter & Patt, also 2 cows & calves & 1 heifer without a calf, 1 bed & furniture. It is my will that my son David Nichols shall within 12 months after my decease & the decease or wodowhood of my wife, pay Bird Nichols fifteen pounds. as his part of a little negro named Jenny. It is also my will that in case I shall depart this life before I sell the present crop that my Executors shall deliver to Bird and David Nichols one Hdd of Tobo. about 1200 pounds to be divided equal, to purchase each a suit of Cloths.
     "Item: I give and bequeath to well-beloved son David Nichols and to his heirs and assigns all that tract or parcel of land contiguous to my Mantion House, situate in fork of Black Walnut Creek containing five hundred and eighty acres more or less, according to a survey made by Co. Robert Wooding it being part of my Order of Counsel aforesaid. Also, three negroes Namely, Lewis, Frank and Jenny, also two cows & calves & 1 heifer without a calf, also 1 bed & furniture.
     "Item: I give and bequeath to my two sons Bird & David Nichols & my daughter Nanny to each of them two ewes.
     "Item: I do likewise give to my two sons Bird and David aforesaid my still, cart and gun to be used between them and each to have as like property in them, also the two Guns the largest to Bird.
     "Item: I give likewise to my Daughter Nanny and my two sons Bird and David Nichols to each two dishes and basin and six plates and six knives and forks also it is my will and desire that all the above legacies to be delivered to Nanny, Bird, and David Nichols at the decease or intermarrying of my wife aforesaid.
     "Item: I give to my well beloved son John Nichols all my wearing cloths of every kind and it my will that the remainder of my stock household furniture and every other thing that can be shared of the plantation shall be sold after the dec. or intermarrying of my aforesaid wife at six months credit by my Executors and if any of my children should die without lawful heirs their portions be equally divided among the survivors.
     "Item: I hereby appoint and constitute Mat Sims and my loving sons William and John Nichols to be Executors of that my past Will and Testament.
     "In Witness where of I have set my hand affixed my seals this day and date as above
     "In presence of Matthew Sims, Edward Parker, Ralph Owen

     "At a court continued and held for Halifax County the 22nd day of April 1774 This last Will and Testament of John Nichols deceased was presented in Court by William Nichols one of the Executors herein named who made oath hereto according to law. An the same being proved by the oaths of two of the Witnesses hereto was ordered to be recorded and on the motion of this Executor certificate was granted him for obtaining a probate hereof in due form giving security whereupon he with James Cobbs and Abraham Legrand his security entered into and acknowledged their Bond with condition according to law. And Matthew Sims one other of the executors herein named refused take upon himself the burden and execution thereof and liberty is reserved to the other Executor to join in probate.

Ancestry.com - Virginia, Wills and Probate Records, 1652-1983
Source Citation

     In John Nichols's will dated 8 October 1773 at Halifax Co., Virginia, USA, Bird Nichols was named as an heir;      "In the name of God Amen, the 8th day of October in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and seventy three - I John Nichols of the County of Halifax being very sick and weak in body but in perfect mind & memory thanks be to God. Therefore, calling to mind the mortality of my Boddy and knowing it is appointed for all men once to die do make and ordain this my last Will and Testament that is to say principally and first of all -
     "I give recommend my soul to God that gave it and for my body I recommend to the earth to be buried in a Christian and decent manner at the discretion of my Executors nothing doubting that at the general Resurrection I shall receive the same again by the mighty power of God and as touching such Worldly Estate wherewith it is pleased God to bless me with in this life - I give devise and dispose in manner and form following.
     "I empress it is my will and I do order that in the first place all my debts to be paid and satisfied.
     "Item: I leave to my well beloving wife Mary Nichols during her widowhood only, seven negroes namely, Peter, Lewis, Frank, Patt, Milley, Hannah and Jenny, also my Manor plantation together with 580 [acres] of land contiguous thereto according to a survey lately made by Robert Wooding together with my household furniture, utensils, &c. Also, my still together with my riding horse, Boo, together with all stocks & moveables of all kinds.
     "Item: I have given to my sons, William, John & Jesse Nichols & also to my daughters Sary Robertson, Betty Owen and Peggy Legrand, themselves their heirs and assigns all the land negroes cattle hoggs beds pewter & every other thing that I before lent them to their only proper use & behoof of them & their heirs as their parts of my estate.
     "Item: To my well beloved son Ambrose Nichols & to his heirs and assigns all that tract or parcel of land joining his brother Jesse, Hardwick, and Peter Hudson situate on the branches of Clover Creek containing four hundred and sixth eight acres more or less according to a survey made by Robert Wooding, it being part of Order of Counsel, also 50 pounds Current Money to be raised out of my estate by my Executors by selling anything that can be best spared also anything that has been delivered him.
     "Item: I give and bequest to my well beloved daughter Nanny Nichols and her heirs and assigns all the tract of or parcel of land situate on the branches of Difficult and Black Walnut Creeks and on both sides of Stewarts Ferry Road joining the lines of Agnes Robertson, Thomas Hope and the outlines of my Order and John Jones, containing four hundred acres more or less according to a survey made by Robert Wooding being part of my order aforesaid. I also give to my Daughter aforesaid two negroes namely, Milley and Hannah, 1 horse or mare, 2 cows and calves & 1 heifer together with 1 feather bed & furniture.
     "Item: I also give and bequeath to my well beloved son Bird Nichols and to his heirs and assigns, all that tract or parcel of land on both sides of Black Walnut Creek containing four hundred and fifty acres more or less with a plantation thereon according to a survey made by Col. Wooding it being part of my order of Counsel, joining the lines of my Manor plantation, likewise Agnes Robertson her land I have conveyed to her by the consent of her mother &c. I also do give to my aforesaid son Bird Nichols two negroes namely Peter & Patt, also 2 cows & calves & 1 heifer without a calf, 1 bed & furniture. It is my will that my son David Nichols shall within 12 months after my decease & the decease or wodowhood of my wife, pay Bird Nichols fifteen pounds. as his part of a little negro named Jenny. It is also my will that in case I shall depart this life before I sell the present crop that my Executors shall deliver to Bird and David Nichols one Hdd of Tobo. about 1200 pounds to be divided equal, to purchase each a suit of Cloths.
     "Item: I give and bequeath to well-beloved son David Nichols and to his heirs and assigns all that tract or parcel of land contiguous to my Mantion House, situate in fork of Black Walnut Creek containing five hundred and eighty acres more or less, according to a survey made by Co. Robert Wooding it being part of my Order of Counsel aforesaid. Also, three negroes Namely, Lewis, Frank and Jenny, also two cows & calves & 1 heifer without a calf, also 1 bed & furniture.
     "Item: I give and bequeath to my two sons Bird & David Nichols & my daughter Nanny to each of them two ewes.
     "Item: I do likewise give to my two sons Bird and David aforesaid my still, cart and gun to be used between them and each to have as like property in them, also the two Guns the largest to Bird.
     "Item: I give likewise to my Daughter Nanny and my two sons Bird and David Nichols to each two dishes and basin and six plates and six knives and forks also it is my will and desire that all the above legacies to be delivered to Nanny, Bird, and David Nichols at the decease or intermarrying of my wife aforesaid.
     "Item: I give to my well beloved son John Nichols all my wearing cloths of every kind and it my will that the remainder of my stock household furniture and every other thing that can be shared of the plantation shall be sold after the dec. or intermarrying of my aforesaid wife at six months credit by my Executors and if any of my children should die without lawful heirs their portions be equally divided among the survivors.
     "Item: I hereby appoint and constitute Mat Sims and my loving sons William and John Nichols to be Executors of that my past Will and Testament.
     "In Witness where of I have set my hand affixed my seals this day and date as above
     "In presence of Matthew Sims, Edward Parker, Ralph Owen

     "At a court continued and held for Halifax County the 22nd day of April 1774 This last Will and Testament of John Nichols deceased was presented in Court by William Nichols one of the Executors herein named who made oath hereto according to law. An the same being proved by the oaths of two of the Witnesses hereto was ordered to be recorded and on the motion of this Executor certificate was granted him for obtaining a probate hereof in due form giving security whereupon he with James Cobbs and Abraham Legrand his security entered into and acknowledged their Bond with condition according to law. And Matthew Sims one other of the executors herein named refused take upon himself the burden and execution thereof and liberty is reserved to the other Executor to join in probate.

Ancestry.com - Virginia, Wills and Probate Records, 1652-1983
Source Citation

     Mariah West was born circa 1834 at Boyle Co., Kentucky, USA; Aged 16 in 1850 census.¹
     Mariah West was listed as a resident in Benoni West and Elizabeth "Betsy" Walker Barlow's household in the census report on 8 August 1850 at Perryville, Boyle Co., Kentucky, USA; p. 319-B, lines 24-31, dwelling 69, family 75
24 WEST, Benoni 60 [1790] M Farmer $4800 KY
25 " , Elisabeth 57 [1793] F KY
26 " , Susan 21 [1829] F KY
27 " , Moses 19 [1931] M Farmer KY
28 " , Mariah 16 [1834] F KY Attended School
29 " , Elcinda 14 [1836] F KY Attended School
30 " , Margaret 10 [1840] F KY Attended School
31 " , Mary C. 8 [1842] F KY Attended School.¹

     James West was born on 23 April 1821; Aged 34 on marriage record (1855)l Aged 30 in 1850 census.^2,3,4 He married Mary A./J. Raines on 1 November 1855 at Boyle Co., Kentucky, USA,
; Ancestry.com - Kentucky, County Marriage Records, 1783-1965
James West died on 25 July 1902 at age 81.²
James West was buried after 25 July 1902 at Perryville Cemetery, Perryville, Boyle Co., Kentucky, USA; From Find A Grave:
     BIRTH     23 Apr 1821
     DEATH     25 Jul 1902 (aged 81)
     Family Members
     Spouse
          Mary A. West 1840–1904
     BURIAL     Perryville Cemetery, Perryville, Boyle County, Kentucky, USA
     Created by: Deekay
     Added: 2 Jun 2008
     Find a Grave Memorial 27291071.²
     James West was listed as a resident in John Parker's household in the census report on 20 November 1850 at District 19, Davidson Co., Tennessee, USA; p. 262-B, lines 35-37, dwelling 1274, family 1278
     35 PARKER, Jno 30 [1820] M Farmer $2,000 KY
     36 WEST, Jas 30 [1820] M Farmer KY
     37 ISBELL, T. M. 21 [1829] M Labourer KY.⁵
; Per note on Parker/Wood Family Tree: "Maybe Boyle County. James West Appointed Guardian of Mary Parker. From Debby Lowery. Later, was executor of her estate. On May 19, he became guardian of John Clay Parker."⁶ James West was the administrator of Mary Jane Parker's estate on 4 July 1867 at Boyle Co., Kentucky, USA; Ancestry.com - Kentucky, Wills and Probate Records, 1774-1989

     Mary A./J. Raines was born on 26 February 1840.² She married James West, son of Benoni West and Elizabeth "Betsy" Walker Barlow, on 1 November 1855 at Boyle Co., Kentucky, USA,
; Ancestry.com - Kentucky, County Marriage Records, 1783-1965
Mary A./J. Raines died on 22 October 1904 at age 64; Obituary from Find A Grave memorial: "
THE LEBANON ENTERPRISE, p. 3, Fri., Oct. 28, 1904. MRS. MARY WEST, widow of the late James West, who was a well known Boyle County farmer, died at her home at Perryville Saturday after a lingering illness. She is survived by four children all of whom are grown. Funeral services were held in Perryville at the Baptist church followed by burial in the Perryville cemetery--Danville Advocate. R.I.P."²
Mary A./J. Raines was buried after 22 October 1904 at Perryville Cemetery, Perryville, Boyle Co., Kentucky, USA; From Find A Grave:
     BIRTH     26 Feb 1840
     DEATH     22 Oct 1904 (aged 64)
     Family Members
     Spouse
          James West 1821–1902
     BURIAL     Perryville Cemetery, Perryville, Boyle County, Kentucky, USA
     Created by: Deekay
     Added: 2 Jun 2008
     Find a Grave Memorial 27291076.²

     Susan West was born circa 1829 at Kentucky, USA; Aged 21 in 1850 census.¹
     Susan West was listed as a resident in Benoni West and Elizabeth "Betsy" Walker Barlow's household in the census report on 8 August 1850 at Perryville, Boyle Co., Kentucky, USA; p. 319-B, lines 24-31, dwelling 69, family 75
24 WEST, Benoni 60 [1790] M Farmer $4800 KY
25 " , Elisabeth 57 [1793] F KY
26 " , Susan 21 [1829] F KY
27 " , Moses 19 [1931] M Farmer KY
28 " , Mariah 16 [1834] F KY Attended School
29 " , Elcinda 14 [1836] F KY Attended School
30 " , Margaret 10 [1840] F KY Attended School
31 " , Mary C. 8 [1842] F KY Attended School.¹

Susan West was listed as a resident in Benoni West and Elizabeth "Betsy" Walker Barlow's household in the census report on 16 July 1860 at Perryville, Boyle Co., Kentucky, USA; p. 937, lines 24-29, dwellings 639 & 640, Families 569 & 570
24 WEST, Benoni 69 [1791] M Farmer $17,600 $10,000 KY
25 " , Elizabeth 56 [1804] F KY
26 " , Moses 30 [1830] M Farmer $600 KY Married w/in year
27 " , Catherine 21 [1839] F KY Married w/in year
28 " , Susan A. 33 [1837] F KY
29 PARKER, Mary J. 14 [1846] F KY Attended School.²

     Moses West was born circa 1831 at Boyle Co., Kentucky, USA; Aged 19 in 1850 census.¹ He married Catherine (?) in 1860 at Boyle Co., Kentucky, USA,
; 16 Jul 1860 census says married within the year.²
     Moses West was listed as a resident in Benoni West and Elizabeth "Betsy" Walker Barlow's household in the census report on 8 August 1850 at Perryville, Boyle Co., Kentucky, USA; p. 319-B, lines 24-31, dwelling 69, family 75
24 WEST, Benoni 60 [1790] M Farmer $4800 KY
25 " , Elisabeth 57 [1793] F KY
26 " , Susan 21 [1829] F KY
27 " , Moses 19 [1931] M Farmer KY
28 " , Mariah 16 [1834] F KY Attended School
29 " , Elcinda 14 [1836] F KY Attended School
30 " , Margaret 10 [1840] F KY Attended School
31 " , Mary C. 8 [1842] F KY Attended School.¹

Moses West was listed as a resident in Benoni West and Elizabeth "Betsy" Walker Barlow's household in the census report on 16 July 1860 at Perryville, Boyle Co., Kentucky, USA; p. 937, lines 24-29, dwellings 639 & 640, Families 569 & 570
24 WEST, Benoni 69 [1791] M Farmer $17,600 $10,000 KY
25 " , Elizabeth 56 [1804] F KY
26 " , Moses 30 [1830] M Farmer $600 KY Married w/in year
27 " , Catherine 21 [1839] F KY Married w/in year
28 " , Susan A. 33 [1837] F KY
29 PARKER, Mary J. 14 [1846] F KY Attended School.²