Major Joshua Wynne (1661 – 1715) – Poythress Surname History

Biographic Compilation by Mike Tutor, circa 2019

Major Joshua Wynne (1661-1715), Indian Trader & Interpreter, 2nd generation

R. Bolling Batte regarding Joshua Wynne

[7. Joshua Wynne (Mary 1) was born AFT 1655 in of Prince George County, Virginia, and died 1715. He married Mary Jones, daughter of Peter Jones and Margaret Cruse. She was born BEF 1689. Children of Joshua Wynne and Mary Jones are:

+ 24 i. Peter Wynne died ABT 1738 in Prince George County, VA.

+ 25 ii. Mary Wynne died BEF 1729.

26 iii. Joshua Wynne. He married Mary .

27 iv. Robert Wynne. He married Frances .

28 v. Frances Wynne.

29 vi. William Wynne was born 1705.

+ 30 vii. Margaret Wynne died 1729 in Prince George County, Virginia.]

Family

Joshua Wynne was born March 20, 1661, in Jordan’s parish, in Charles City County, the son of Robert Wynne and Mrs. Mary (Sloman?) Poythress. Robert Wynne was Speaker of the House of Burgesses and served longer than any man in Virginia’s history, from March 13, 1661 to 1675. Robert died on October 8, 1675. His will, dated July 1, 1675, and proved August 15, 1678, at Jordan’s parish or Charles City, present Prince George County, showed an estate in Canterbury, England, of two houses and a farm, in addition to his 600 acre Virginia estate south of the James River. Joshua married Mary Jones about 1685, the daughter of Maj. Peter Jones, the Commander of the fort built at the falls near the present day city of Petersburg, Virginia, and Margaret Cruse. Margaret Cruse was the step- daughter of Major General Abraham Wood, the commander of Ft. Henry and leader of first English expedition into the Mississippi valley. General Wood was the official that negotiated the British fur trade with the Cherokee nation. Wood also testified against Nathaniel Bacon, the leader of “Bacon’s rebellion,” who led a rebel army that massacred friendly Indians in colonial Virginia.

The children of Joshua Wynne and Mary Jones were (1) Peter Wynne (c. 1690-1738), who married Frances Anderson, the daughter of [Rinson?] Anderson [possibly sister to Mathew, William, John and Henry Anderson]; (2) Mary Wynne (c. 1692-1725), who married John Worsham, the son of John Worsham and Phoebe Burton; (3) Margaret Wynne (c. 1694-1729), who married Edward Goodrich, the son of Charles Goodrich; (4) Joshua Wynne, who married Mary; (5) Robert Wynne, who married Frances; (6) Frances Wynne; and, (7) William Wynne (1705- 1778), who married Frances. Joshua was killed by Indians on March 29,

1715.

On March 29, 1715, Major Joshua Wynne was shot and killed by Saponey Indians because one of Joshua’s servants had killed one of the Indian’s ‘great’ men. Upon trial of the Indian, they pleaded that the Wynne’s were the aggressors and that they never rest without revenge. The Indians said that they and the Wynnes’ were then equal, each having lost a great man. To avoid more bloodshed the Indian was pardoned.” [The Saponey or Saponi were of the Siouan linguistic stock, related to the nearby Tutelo tribe. They were unrelated to the Iroquoian speaking tribes Nottoway, Meherrin and the Algonquian speaking Powhatan Confederacy tribes (Pamunkey, Nansemond) that the Wynne brothers enjoyed friendly relations with.].

Son, Peter Wynne

December 9, 1712, in Prince George County, Francis Poythress, of Westover parish, in Prince George County, to Thomas Poythress, of the same, all my tract in the above parish, known as “Odiums,” 100 acres, bounded by John Winningham, said Thomas Poythress, Deep Bottom Run, the dividing line of Francis and John Poythress, with all houses, etc. The witnesses were Edward Goodrich, Richard Hamlin and Peter Wynne. Recorded December 11, 1712. [Edward Goodrich (1693-1720) was married to Margaret Wynne (1694-1729), daughter of Joshua Wynne and Mary Jones. Richard Hamlin was married to Ann Harnison (-aft. 1773), daughter of Thomas Harnison. Peter Wynne (c.

1690-c. 1738) was married to Frances Anderson (-1727), daughter of John Anderson.]

John Worsham, Jr., was born about 1679, in Henrico County, Virginia, son of John Worsham and Phoebe. John Worsham, Jr., married Mary Wynne, daughter of Joshua Wynne and Mary Jones, about 1700, in Henrico County,

Virginia. He owned land on Swift Creek. He was a witness in many deed transactions and Wills in Henrico County. He appraised many estates. He was vestryman and churchwarden of Curles Church. He left a Will dated December 8, 1751, and proved October 5, 1753, in Chesterfield County, Virginia.

Mary Jones Wynne’s grandmother, Margaret Wood Jones Cocke’s Will: The Will of Margaret Cocke, of the county and parish of Henrico, Widow, dated August 12, 1718, proved May 4, 1719.

I give my granddaughter, Margaret, wife of Edward Goodrich, one mulatto boy, named John, the son of my mulatto woman Sue, which boy is to be enjoyed by my granddaughter and her heirs forever.

I give my granddaughter, Mary, the wife of John Worsham, and to her heirs for ever, one mulatto girl, named Margaret, which she now has in her possession.

I give my grandson, Peter Wynne, and to his heirs forever, one mulatto man, named John Henry, he being appointed to be given unto my said grandson by the last Will and testament of my deceased husband, Mr. Thomas Cocke. I also give to my grandson 10 shillings to buy him a ring. I also confirm a gift of a mulatto boy, named Thom, which I made to Major Joshua Wynne in his lifetime, upon condition that there be paid (if not already done) two thousand pounds of tobacco to Thomas Harwood by the administrators of the said Wynne it being on that proviso I gave the said boy to the said Wynne.

I give my granddaughter, Margaret Jones, two silver spoons.

I give Mrs. Mary Randolph and her heirs forever one mulatto boy, named Billy.

I give my grandson, Peter Jones, the son of my son, Abraham Jones, deceased, ten shillings to buy him a ring. I give grandson, Joshua Wynne, two steers.

I give to each of my grandsons, Robert Wynne, William Wynne and Francis Wynne, a cow to be delivered to them when they arrive to lawful age.

I give my Godson, William, the son of William Randolph, one mulatto boy, named James, he being the son of my mulatto woman, Sue, which mulatto boy is to be held by my said Godson and his heirs forever.

I give all of my wearing clothes to be divided among my granddaughters by my executors.

I give my son, Peter Jones, and his heirs forever all the rest of my estate both real and personal, and I do hereby appoint my said son, together with William Randolph, to be executors of this my last Will and testament in witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed my seal the day and year above written. Margaret Cocke. The witnesses were Thomas Buckner, Thomas Morris and Will Jones. Proved at a court held May 4, 1719 on the oaths of William Jones and Thomas Morris. [Margaret Cruse (Wood) Jones Cocke (1641-1719) was married to Peter Jones (1634-1680) and Thomas Cocke (1638-1697), son of Richard Cocke and Temperance Bailey.]

May 9, 1717, Stith Bolling, of Southwark parish, in Surry County, to Robert Poythress, of Westover parish, in Prince George County, 500 acres, on Southwardly Run formerly belonging to Captain Henry Batte, deceased, in Westover parish, in Prince George County. The witnesses were Peter Wynne, Richard Raines and Peter Poythress.

In 1718, in Prince George County, Ann Hamlin, the relict of Richard Hamlin, deceased, appeared in court and relinquished her right of administration to John Hamlin, who appeared and granted, indemnified Sampson Meredith, one of the securities of Richard Hamlin who died without a Will and was granted administration to John Hamlin, who appeared and indemnified Sampson Meredith one of the securities of Richard Hamlin who died without a Will and was granted administration of the estate. Francis Poythress and Peter Wynne his security.

November 11, 1718, in Prince George County, Frances Poythress, the Elder, of Westover parish, in Prince George County, sold to Richard Pace, of the same, the land whereon Richard Pace lived, the plantation whereon Joseph Carter, Edward Crossland, Thomas Kirkland, and Michael Rosser, Sr., lived, being about 400 acres bounded on the lands of the said Francis Poythress according to several lines of marked trees lately made between the said Francis and the said Richard.” The witnesses were Peter Wynne, John Bonner and Thomas Poythress.

November 11, 1718, Frances Poythress, of Westover parish, in Prince George County, sold to Thomas Goodwyn, of Surry County, to Thomas Goodwynn (not mentioning any amount of money), 100 acres, in Westover parish, in Prince George County, bounded by the lands of Peter Grammar and the lands lately purchased of Richard Pace by the said Francis Poythress. The witnesses were Peter Wynne, John Bonner and Thomas Poythress. On the back of the deed was an endorsement in the following————————————— -. Viz: That livery and seisin of the land and premises within

mentioned was by the therein named Francis Poythress delivered in due form of law unto the therein named Thomas Goodwynn with quiet and peaceable possession and seisure of the same on the day and year within mentioned.

November 11, 1718, in Prince George County, Richard Pace, of Prince George County, and Francis Poythress, of Prince George County, 400 acres, in Westover parish, in Prince George County, to Thomas Goodwyn, of Surry County, beginning at the path on the Old Town run, where it crosses the same, leading from Old Michael Rosser’s plantation to Edward Goodrich’s plantation, and running thence westwardly as the path leads along the said Rosser’s corn field fence to the upper end of the same and from thence west nineteen degrees north along a line of marked trees to a corner oak in the head of a bottom thence down that bottom by a line of mark trees to the run between Richard Pace’s plantation where he now lives, and the plantation whereon John Whitmore more lately lived, and so down that run to the path at the beginning, together with 200 acres of land at the head of the said Richard Pace’s dividend, beginning at his southern corner tree and running east fifty chains to a red oak, thence north one hundred and sixty chains to the line dividing this land from lands which did belong to Mr. Charles Anderson, deceased, thence west fifty chains, thence south one hundred and sixty chains to the beginning. Richard Pace, Francis Poythress. The witnesses were Peter Wynne, John Bonner and Thomas Poythress.

December 9, 1718, in the Prince George County court, Francis Poythress, the Elder’s deed of land to Richard Pace was proved by Peter Wynne, John Bonner and Thomas Poythress, witnesses.

December 9, 1718, Frances Poythress, the Elder’s deed of title languishes.

December 9, 1718, Francis Poythress, the Elder’s deed of land to Thomas Goodwyn was proved by Peter Wynne, John Bonner and Thomas Poythress, witnesses.

Daughter, Mary Wynne Worsham

June 30, 1709, in Henrico County, John Elam, of Henrico County, to John Worsham, Jr., and John Royall, Jr., land called “Flinton’s,” 160 acres, on the south side of Flinton’s Swamp, next to Bartholomew Stovall, Edward Stratton, Arthur Mosely, William Clarke, Edward Standly. The witnesses were Will Kennon, Thomas Eldridge, Thomas Randolph. Deed of livery was witnessed by Francis Poythress and John Knibb. [Edward Stratton was married to Anne Batte (c. 1685-?), daughter of Henry Batte and Mary Lound. Thomas Eldridge was married to Judith Kennon (1692-1759), daughter of Richard Kennon and Elizabeth Worsham. William Kennon (1688-1751) was married to Ann Epes, daughter of Francis Epes and Anne Isham. Thomas Randolph (1683-1729) was married to Judith Fleming (1689-bef. 1743), daughter of Charles Fleming and Susanna Tarleton. John Worsham (1679-1744) was married to Mary Wynne (c. 1692-1725), daughter of Joshua Wynne and Mary Jones.]

In Henrico County, the Will of John Worsham, dated June 9, 1729, proved October 1, 1729.

To son John, plantation I live on, except a small parcel on head of my son, William Worsham’s plantation, he bought of John Ealam.

To son, William, all the rest of said plantation.

If above sons have no heirs, then all to Daniel Worsham’s eldest daughter, my granddaughter.

To my son, Daniel’s widow, Judith, to live on my plantation at Coldwater Run. (Daniel was eldest son). To son, John, silver tobacco box, seal gold ring, etc.

To son, William, items.

To daughters, Elizabeth Marshall, Frances Rowlett, Mary Robertson, Martha Ward (Wood) and Ann Osborn, each, 10 shillings.

To grandson, Francis Poythress, a negro, etc. when 21. To grandson, Isham Epes.

To granddaughter, Obediance Worsham, a gold ring.

To son, Daniel’s daughters’ Phoebe, Martha and Elizabeth, a negro man and various items to them and their mother, Judith (widow of Daniel).

Rest to sons, John and William, and they to be executors. The witnesses were Joseph Royall, James Thompson and Henry Royall.

Daughter, Margaret Wynne Goodrich

December 9, 1712, in Prince George County, Francis Poythress, of Westover parish, in Prince George County, to Thomas Poythress, of the same, all my tract in the above parish, known as “Odiums,” 100 acres, bounded by John Winningham, said Thomas Poythress, Deep Bottom Run, the dividing line of Francis and John Poythress, with all houses, etc. The witnesses were Edward Goodrich, Richard Hamlin and Peter Wynne. Recorded December 11, 1712. [Edward Goodrich (1693-1720) was married to Margaret Wynne (1694-1729), daughter of Joshua Wynne and Mary Jones. Richard Hamlin was married to Ann Harrison (-aft. 1773), daughter of Thomas Harrison. Peter Wynne (c.

1690-c. 1738) was married to Frances Anderson (-1727), daughter of John Anderson.]

July 12, 1715, Francis Poythress, of Westover parish, in Prince George County, to Peter Grammar, of the same parish and county, 100 acres in the same parish and county, on Holly Bushes Branch on the line of Richard Pace, and said Poythress…The witnesses were Edward Goodrich, William Hamlin. [William Hamlin was the grandson of Stephen Hamlin and grandson of Richard Taylor and Sarah Barker. Edward Goodrich (1693-1720) was the husband of Margaret Wynne (1696-1723), daughter of Joshua and Mary Wynne.]

June 14, 1720, in Prince George County, John Hardyman, John Poythress and Edward Goodrich made Oaths as Sheriffs. [John Hardyman (1686-1738), son of John Hardyman and Mary Epes, was married to Henrietta Maria Taylor, daughter of John Taylor. Edward Goodrich (1693-1720) was married to Margaret Wynne (1694-1729), daughter of Joshua Wynne and Mary Jones.]

June 14, 1720, in Prince George County, John Poythress and Edward Goodrich entered bond with John Hardyman for his performance as Sheriff.

In Prince George County, the Will of Edward Goodrich, dated October 7, 1720. I will that my debts and funeral charges shall be paid and discharged.

I give my loving wife, one third part of this my plantation and one third part of the land thereto belonging, during her natural life, I mean the plantation I now live upon, together with four negroes whose names are

Mingo, Mary, Sarah, and Nanny, as also her choice of one featherbed and furniture, three cows and calves, and one riding horse.

I give my daughter, Mary, three negroes, Betty, Patty and Beck, and their increase, to her and her heirs forever, two cows and calves, one featherbed.

I give my daughter, Elizabeth, three negroes, Aggie, Tom and Peter, one featherbed, and two cows and calves, to her and her heirs for ever.

I give my son, Benjamin, three negroes, Andrew, Little Mary and Little Andrew, with the plantation I now live upon, and the whole tract of land thereto adjoining, three cows and calves, one featherbed and furniture to him and his heirs for ever.

I give my son, Edward, all my tract of land and plantation called the High Hills, in Surry County, containing 500 acres or thereabouts to him, and three negroes, Will, Jack and Peter, the son of Sarah, to him and his heirs forever, with three cows and calves, and one featherbed.

My will and desire is that plantation I bought of Cargill lying in Prince George County, and all my land upon the

Three Creeks, purchased of Richard Acock and George Hunt, be disposed of by my executor and executrix hereafter named for and toward the payment of all my just debts, and the residue if any to be equally divided amongst my legatees above mentioned.

I give my Father and each of my sisters, ten shillings apiece to buy each of them a ring, and to my brother, ten shillings.

Lastly, I appoint my dear and loving wife and Captain Henry Harrison my executors of this my last Will and testament, hereby disannulling and making void all former Wills and testaments. In witness whereof I have hereunto affixed my seal and set my hand, October 7, 1720. Edward Goodrich. The witnesses were Ephraim Vernon, Gilbert Hay and Arthur Biggins. At a court held at Merchant’s Hope for Prince George County, on the second Tuesday, January 10, 1721. The above written last Will and testament of Edward Goodrich, deceased, was presented into court by Margaret Goodrich an executrix named in the said Will, who made oath thereto, and it being proved by the oaths of Gilbert Hay, Arthur Biggins, and Ephraim Vernon witnesses thereto, is by order of the court truly recorded. And on the motion of the said Margaret Goodrich and her giving Security according to law, Certificate was granted her for obtaining a probate in due form. [Margaret Wynne Goodrich was the daughter of Joshua Wynne and Mary Jones.]

January 10, 1721, in Prince George County, John Poythress, Edmund Irby, Gilbert Hay and William Harrison were chosen, sworn, etc. to appraise the estate of Edward Goodrich; Margaret Goodrich, the executrix, was to return

the Inventory. [Edmund Irby was the husband of Anne Bland, daughter of Richard Bland and Elizabeth Randolph. Margaret Wynne Goodrich (1694-1729) was the daughter of Joshua and Mary Wynne.]

Son, Robert Wynne

In Surry County, the Will of Thomas Dinkins, dated October 30, 1717, probated May 21, 1718. A legacy to his sons, Thomas, James and Charles, one shilling each.

To his daughters, Mary Vandinan, Ann Sesshings and Margaret Perry, one shilling each.

To his wife, Margaret, the plantation he lived on during her life, and then to his son, Thomas Denkins, Jr. To his son, Sanders Dinkins, one half of his land, the lower half.

To his wife, Margaret, the rest of his estate. The witnesses were David Poythress, Jos. Fowler and Robert Wynne. Elizabeth Dinkins, was named administratrix of the estate of Thomas Denkins, her husband.

Professional Life

September 15, 1682, at a court at Westover, in Charles City County, Captain Peter Perry and Mr. Richard Bland were to administer oath to Mrs. Rebecca Poythress, the relict and administratrix, with the Will annexed of Francis Poythress, late deceased, to make inventory.

December 3, 1688, at a court at Westover, in Charles City County, testimony was elicited in the matter of the estate of Anne Young. Henry Reed exhibited his bill in chancery against Charles Bartholomew and Rebecca, his wife, executrix of Major Francis Poythress. The plaintiff showed that one, Ann Young, sister of the orator, dying intestate, in this county, before commission of administration was sent forth, Major Francis Poythress inventoried her estate and had it appraised at 5,664 pounds tobacco, and was thereof possessed. Thereafter, administration was granted to said Poythress and Peter Read, the orator’s father. That the moiety that belongs to one of the orphans of Ann was in the custody of Peter Read. That Peter Read had of said moiety only a mare and a cow, to value of 950 pounds tobacco. There remained in custody of Poythress 1,882 pounds tobacco, but Poythress shortly afterward went to England and died, in the nonage of your orator, who begs recovery of 1,882 pounds tobacco, and prays that Charles Bartholomew and Rebecca, his wife, be subpoenaed to answer. Francis Poythress had gone to England to purchase certain items and goods which were consigned to the ship owned by Emberly. The consigned merchandise was mixed in with those of the Wynne’s. On January 8, 1689, at a court at the house of Major Francis Poythress, deceased, present were Captain Lowry, Mr. Bra?, Captain Batte, Mr. Bolling. Administration with the Will annexed was granted to Rebecca, the widow of Major Francis Poythress, deceased, have quit claim in what goods are now brought in Captain Emberly’s things belonging to Thomas and Joshua Wynne and it was consented that they shall jointly possess the same. Peter Perry.

March 12, 1702 the Governor and Council of Virginia made an address of loyalty to the King of England. A similar loyal address was received from Charles City County. The Grand Jury was composed of John Cocke, Anthony

Wyatt, Robert New, Thomas Jackson, George Pasmoore, James Harrison, Randall Madax, Roger Best, David Gudgam, John Wickett, John Daniel, Thomas Daniell, James Gabeker, Thomas Woodham, Robert Harwood, John Hunt, Thomas Anderson, James Gunn, Daniel Higdon, and John Baxter. The Justices were Richard Bland, Charles Goodrich, Daniel Lewellin, Robert Bolling, Littlebury Epes, George Blighton, John Hardiman, Joshua Wynne and Richard Bradford. The Sheriff was Micajah Lowe. The Militia Officers were Thomas Simmons, Adam Tapley, Peter Poythress, Anthony Wyatt, John Epes, Francis Epes, John Limbreij, Joshua Wynne, Micajah Lowe, John Hamlin, John Epes, John Reeker, Jr., Thomas Harrison, John Poythress, John Poythress, Richard Hamlin, John Baxton, William Byrd, Edward Hill, Charles Goodrich, Littlebury Epes, George Blighton, Richard Bradford, John Taylor, Peter Jones, Richard Reeker, and James Thweatt.

In 1702, Captain Thomas Wynne and his brother, Joshua Wynne, were appointed interpreters to accompany the Nottaway and Meherrin commissioners on their trip north to make peace with the Seneca Indians. Major Joshua Wynne lived among the Indians in the Virginia Colony. In 1703, the Nottoway, Nansemonds, and Meherrin tribes requested that Joshua Wynne and his brother, Thomas Wynne, be appointed Indian Interpreters for the tribe. When a Chief of these tribes was taken prisoner by the Senecas, the Wynne brothers were begged to accompany the Indians on this long and dangerous journey, as without them “nothing could be accomplished.” This journey was undertaken and their chief was retrieved, temporarily averting a tribal war.

Governor Spotswood appointed Captain John Poythress, Sr., to serve with Colonel John Hardyman, Major Joshua Wynne and Captain Francis Mallory as members of the Commission to investigate the Virginia-North Carolina line on October 21, 1707. They were to examine under oath “such ancient inhabitants of Prince George, Surry, Isle of Wight and Nansemond counties and discover the truth as to the said bounds between the said colonies. Also they were to ask the “ancient and intelligent Indians of the Nottoway, Meherrins and Nansemond nations,” what they knew about the area. Among the old inhabitants of Prince George County that were deposed were Robert Bolling, Gentleman, aged 61, who “had known the Nottoway river for 37 years or more.” Major Wynne’s quarter was on the sight of the old Nottoway Indian town. [Joshua Wynne (1661-1715) was the son of Robert Wynne (1622-1678) and Mary Frances Poythress Wynne, and therefore an uncle to John Poythress(3) (c. 1661-c. 1730s). John Poythress(3) was a cousin to the Hardymans, and John Poythress’ wife, Mary Batte (1664-1760), was a granddaughter of Martha Mallory.]

Prince George County interview of James Thweat, aged 64 years or thereabouts, sworn said that he had known the River now called the Nottoway River for the space of about 48 years or more and then it was called by the name of the Nottoway River and by no other name that the deponent knows or has heard. That when this deponent was first acquainted in those parts, the chief town of the Nottoway Indians was on the south side of the River where Major Wynne’s Quarter now is, about three miles above the mouth of Monksneck Creek, and some few of them lived at Rowonte, which is about 4 miles up Monksneck creek; and two or three families of them at Tonnatora, which is on the north side of the River. And that they lived at some of these places, and at Cottashowrock, and there abouts, until about 25 or 26 years ago, and then they removed and settled their great town upon Atyamonsock Swamp at the place now called Old Town. That about 48 years ago the Meherrin Indians lived upon the Meherrin River at Cowochahawkon and some of them at Unote, and about 24 years ago they lived some of them at Unote and some at Taurara, but how long they lived there after that time, he cannot particularly remember. And further this deponent said not. James Thweatt, November 12, 1707, sworn before us B. Harrison, Jr., and John Hardyman.

James Thweatt (1643-) “of Bristol Parish” was an officer in the Virginia militia when he signed the loyalty oath in March, 1701/2. In 1704, Thweatt owned 750 acres, some on the south side of the Appomattox River which was in Bristol parish and some on the south side of the James River which was in Jordan’s parish. The elder James Thweatt was 64 years old in 1707 when he swore then, that he had known the Nottoway river for about 48 years when questioned along with Robert Bolling about the Virginia-North Carolina dividing line. The younger James Thweatt married Judith Soane on November 24, 1701, but before that he had been married to her sister, Elizabeth. In their father’s Will of 1714, William Soane of Henrico county mentioned “my daughter Elizabeth, late wife of James Thweatt, being dead…and my daughter, Judith Thweatt.” This younger James Thweatt was attending the Prince George County court as a Justice on June 14, 1715. And on June 10, 1718, “James Thweatt having produced a commission from the Honorable Lieutenant Governor to be sheriff of this county, he accordingly took the usual

oaths, etc.” His bond was for £1,000 sterling. Thomas Simmonds was sworn in as under sheriff at the same time, taking the same oath. By 1719, sheriff James Thweatt had a son James, Jr., who was of age. They witnessed many deeds and wills together from then until 1726.

Property: Land

February 2, 1693, in Charles City County, a Power of Attorney from Rebecca Poythress to Charles Bartholomew to convey the following land. February 3, 1693, in Charles City County, (first part missing)…a deed from Rebecca Poythress to Joshua Wynne. The witnesses were Charles Bartholomew, William Epes and Elizabeth Smith. [William Epes (1661-1710) was the son of Francis Epes and Elizabeth Littlebury.]

June 28, 1707, Joshua Wynne, Gentleman, of Prince George County, and Mary, his wife, sold 150 acres, in Surry County, to Benjamin Harrison, Esquire, of Charles City County, one certain plantation on the north side of the Nottaway River. The witnesses were Francis Mallory, Francis Poythress and Thomas Wynne. [Benjamin Harrison III (1673-1710) was the husband of Elizabeth Burwell.]

Major Joshua Wynne and his wife, Mary, deeded a tract of land in Surry in 1708.

As Witness

June 4, 1694, at Westover court, the Attorney General, William Randolph, exhibited information against Charles Bartholomew for making an unlawful marriage. Rebecca Poythress Bartholomew was to be subpoenaed to the court to provide information. The 12th Act of Assembly stated that none shall marry within certain degrees of consanguinity, especially that none shall marry his wife’s sister. On July 3, 1694, John Jane swore that he knew Frances, the first wife of Charles Bartholomew and that he knows Rebecca, the relict of Francis Poythress, and that he married one of the sisters of Rebecca and that he had been told and also believed that Rebecca and Frances were sisters and that they were daughters of one mother but of diverse fathers.

August 3, 1694, William Randolph, the Attorney General, repeated the charges against Charles and Rebecca Poythress Bartholomew. Charles and Rebecca were married in Westover parish, February 2, 1693, by George Robinson, clerk, of Bristol parish, in Henrico County, and presently live together. Charles pleaded not guilty and a jury was impaneled. Charles quoted two statutes regarding marriage and said that his marriage was cognizable only by ecclesiastical jurisdiction. The court overruled his plea. He said that he had not violated the law. George Robinson swore in court that he married the couple on the date stated. William Epes stated that he saw the couple married on the date stated. John Jane swore that Frances and Rebecca were sisters and daughters of the same mother but of diverse fathers. John Bishop swore the same. Joshua Wynne swore that he knew both women from childhood and that they were always taken to be sisters and daughters of one mother. Thomas Blighton swore that he had frequented John Coggin’s house in Coggin’s wife’s lifetime and that he had often heard Mrs. Coggin call Rebecca and Frances daughters and he had heard the daughters call themselves step-sisters, and therefore always reasoned that the two sisters were half-sisters. William Harrison, the foreman of the jury, brought in a verdict of not guilty. The Attorney General appealed to the fourth of the next General court and had the Sheriff take Bartholomew to give sureties that he and Rebecca would live apart until the suit was settled. [The Attorney General, William Randolph (1650-1711), of Turkey Island, was married to Mary Isham. Their daughter, Elizabeth Randolph (1680-1719/20), married Richard Bland (1665-1720). The witness, John Jane (-bef. 4/14/1710), married Elizabeth Tye (c. 1650-aft. 4/14/1710), half-sister to Mrs. Rebecca Coggin Poythress Bartholomew. Charles Bartholomew was married to Francis Tye (c. 1654-c. 1692) until her death. He subsequently married her sister, Mrs. Rebecca Coggin Poythress. The witness, John Bishop, was the brother of Elizabeth Bishop Peebles and uncle of Christian Peebles Poythress, the wife of John Poythress, Francis Poythress’ brother. The witness, Joshua Wynne, was Francis Poythress’ half-brother. According to his sworn statement, he and Rebecca Coggin were of approximately the same age.]

January 12, 1705, at Westover, in Charles City County, the last Will and testament of the Honorable Colonel William Byrd, one of her Majesty’s honorable council and auditor of Virginia, lately deceased. The Will was examined by Francis Nicholson, Esquire, her Majesty’s Lieutenant and Governor General of Virginia in the presence of the honorable Colonel Henry Duke, one of her Majesty’s honorable council of Virginia, Captain Littlebury Eppes, of Charles City County, Henry Duke, Jr., of James City County, Gentlemen; and Captain Joshua Wynne, of Prince

George County, who said the original Will appears to be written by Colonel Byrd’s own hand without any blot or interlineation and sealed with his own seal. On January 12, 1705, at Westover, in Charles City County, the addition or codicil endorsed on the back of the original Will of the deceased Colonel William Byrd, one of her Majesty’s honorable council and auditor of Virginia was examined by Francis Nicholson, Esquire, her Majesty’s Lieutenant and Governor General of Virginia in the presence of the honorable Colonel Henry Duke, one of her Majesty’s honorable council of Virginia, Captain Littlebury Eppes, of Charles City County, Henry Duke, Jr., of James City County, Gentlemen; and Captain Joshua Wynne, of Prince George County. [Henry Duke (-1718) was married to Elizabeth Taylor, daughter of John Taylor and Henrietta Maria Hill. Littlebury Epes (1664-1743) was the son of Francis Epes and Elizabeth Littlebury. Joshua Wynne (1661-1715) was married to Mary Jones (1658-1718), daughter of Peter Jones and Margaret Cruse.]

May 1, 1707, James Salmon, of Surry County, planter, deeded to William Rains, of Westover parish, in Prince George County, 176 acres of land, at Joans Hole and the mouth of Ready Branch that runs between Rain’s plantation and Captain Mallory’s plantation. The witnesses were Joshua Wynne, John Hamlin and James Binford. On the back of this deed there was an endorsement making over to son, Richard Rains, one piece of farm land within deed, joining upon the upper side of the Great Branch, I do make over to my son, Thomas Rains. [Joshua Wynne (1661- 1715) was the son of Robert Wynne (1622-1678) and Mary Frances Poythress Wynne. William Raines (1666-1722) married Elizabeth Shands.]

Family Estates

In Prince George County, the Will of John Poythress, Sr., of Prince George County, proved December 11, 1712. I give my son, Francis Poythress, all of that land and plantation I now live on, to him and his heirs forever.

I give my son, David Poythress, 300 acres of land, at Tunnatorah, to him and his heirs forever. I give my son, Joshua Poythress, 300 acres of land, at Monkasoneck, and to his heirs forever.

I give my son, Robert Poythress, 300 acres of land, at the Indian Swamp, to him and his heirs forever.

I give my son Robert Poythress, 50 acres of land, on the lower side of the Indian Swamp, to him for his own proper use and behoof not to make sale of the said fifty acres of land.

I give my son, Francis Poythress, two negroes, Coffer and Sis.

I give my son, David Poythress, two negroes, Jack and young Mary. I give my son, Joshua Poythress, two negroes, Peter and Beck.

I give my son, Robert Poythress, two negroes, Tom and young Sarah.

I give my son, William Poythress, three negroes, Frank Cook and Amy and Frank Cook at nattuah. I give my son, John Poythress, two negroes, Bess and Nanny, and their increase.

I give my son, Peter Poythress, two negroes, Ben and Nanny, their increase.

I give my loving wife, Christian Poythress, three negroes, Catto, Usse and Sarah, to my loving wife, for her proper use and to be at her own disposing.

I give my daughter, Elizabeth Poythress, two negroes, Pegg, and her son, Tom. I give my daughter, Christian Poythress, two negroes, Moll and John Cook.

I give my loving wife, Christian Poythress, my servant, John Field, during his time, and at his freedom, to have besides his corn and clothes, a cow and calf and a new gun.

I give my daughter, Mary Woodlief, £40 Sterling.

I give all my moveable estate to be equally divided between my wife and children. My son, John Poythress, and son, Peter Poythress, giving an account of what they have in hand.

I give my grandson, Francis Poythress, son of Francis Poythress, the negro child, Shu, goes with all.

I give my loving wife, Christian Poythress, my two negro wenches, Shu and Jude, as her own proper estate to be at her own disposing.

I appoint my loving wife and my son, John Poythress, to be executors of this my last will and testament.

I appoint my two brothers, Thomas and Joshua Wynne, and William Stainback to be the dividers of my estate. Signed by John Poythress, in the presence of John Winningham, Peter Leeth, Thomas Leeth and William Stainback. At a court held for Prince George County, December, 11, 1712. The written last Will and testament of Mr. John Poythress, deceased, was proved in open court by the oaths of John Winningham, Peter Leigth and William Stainback, the witnesses thereto and the probation thereof granted John Poythress, executor, and Christian Poythress, his relict and executor, named therein and at their motion the same is admitted to record.

Inheritance

Robert Wynne, of Jordan’s parish, of Charles City County, in Virginia, Gentleman.

My body to be decently buried in Jordan’s Church as near as conveniently it may be to my son, Robert, and for my worldly goods I thus dispose of for those that God has blessed me withal in England.

I give my eldest son, Thomas Wynne, one farm in Whitestaple parish, in Kent, near Canterbury, and normally called by the name Linebett Banckes, with all barns, stables, outhouses, lands, orchards and all things old and they were left me or have been improved since to him and the heirs of his body lawfully begotten forever but my will and pleasure is that he enjoy no part or parcel of this until he be 21 years old. In the interim, what profits shall amount annually out of this to be disposed of by my administrator hereinafter nominated. And if it shall please God, my said son, Thomas, die either before he come to age or have lawful issue my will and pleasure is my son, Joshua, enjoy it on the said terms above expressed. And if it please God he die before he comes to age or have lawful issue, that then it shall come to my daughter, Woodlief, and her heirs. But if it shall please God that all die without heirs then to be disposed of as it shall think fit by my administratrix.

I further give my son, Thomas, one house being in Canterbury, in St. Mildred’s parish, with all them thereunto belonging to enjoy and to be held at the age of 21 and in the said form as my farm at Whitestaple and in default of heirs to descend as that doth.

I give youngest son, Joshua Wynne, one house and oatmeale mill with orchards, backfield and garden lying in Dover Lane, without St. Georges in Canterbury, and commonly called by the name of the Lilly Pott, and further I will and bequeath to my said son, Joshua, two houses in the same lane over against the Lilly Pott where a ropemaker and one Rawlins hath been formerly tenants to enjoy every part and parcel of these at the age of 21 years and not before. I give and bequeath them to him and the heirs of his body lawfully begotten forever. But if it please God he shall die before he come to age or without lawful issue, that then they shall come to his brother, Thomas, and his failing then to his sister, Woodlief, and if she failed then to my administratrix as aforesaid.

I give my daughter, Woodlief, one messauge or tenement being in the parish of Hernehill, to sell align or dispose as to her shall seam requisite it being for the bettering her portion and she to enjoy it as soon as it shall please God to call me to his mercy.

I give my son, Thomas, all of the cattle of his own mark being formerly given him except one cow, called Moll, which is to be killed for provision and likewise one mare and filly foal he is already possessed of and one good

featherbed with bolster pillow, rug and two blankets and likewise two guns he is to take his choice of all mine for them. I give my son, Joshua, my plantation called Georges with all the tobacco house and other houses with all the whole grant of that dividend to him and the heirs of his body lawfully begotten and in default of such heirs to his brother,

Thomas, and in default of Thomas, to my daughter, Woodlief, and also the cattle known to be his and a filly now in his possession with a feather bed, bolster pillow, rug and two blankets and two well fixed guns. I give my daughter, Woodlief, one servant of four years to serve the next shipping after my decease or else two thousand pounds of tobacco and oats to buy one.

I give my grandchild and godson, young George Woodlief, one filly foal of about a year old and for all my other estate as well this in Virginia as what shall be sent of England now and until my children come to age I give and bequeath after my just debts are paid unto my beloved wife, Mary Wynne, whom I make my whole and sole administratrix of this my last Will and testament and my desire and request is that my loving friends, Thomas Grendon, merchant, and my son-in-law, Captain Francis Poythress, be overseers to this my last Will and testament to either of whom I give twenty shillings to buy them a small ring in remembrance of me. In witness to every part and parcel of this my last Will and testament I have left my hand and annexed my seal July 1, 1675. Robert Wynne. The witnesses were Thomas Brome, John Burge; endorsed at a court held at Westover, August 3, 1675.

This Will was proved in court by the oaths of Thomas Brome and John Burge the witnesses therein named and a probate granted the administratrix therein also named and entered amongst the records of the said court. James Minge, Clerk of Court. Examined May Court, 1677. J. Minge, John Rudde and John Sherman. [Mary Wynne (1655- aft. 1707) married John Woodlief (1643-c. 1716). Thomas Wynne (1657-1717) married Agnes Stith (1656-1718), daughter of John Stith and Jane Mosbey. Robert Wynne (1660-1675) died young. Joshua Wynne (1660/1-1715) married Mary Jones (1658-1718), daughter of Peter Jones and Margaret Cruse.]

Highlights: Maj. Joshua Wynne (1661-1715), son of Col. Robt. Wynne, m. c. 1684 Mary Jones (c. 1658-1718).

born 3/20/1661 Jordan’s parish, Chas. Cty. Co.

inherited one house and oatmeale mill with orchards, backfield and garden lying in Dover Lane, without St. Georges in Canterbury, and commonly called by the name of the Lilly Pott, two houses in the same lane over against the Lilly Pott and my plantation called Georges 1677
married c. 1684 to Mary Jones
Thos. Wynne s/s Jas. R. adj. his land, Joshua Wynne, Fountain & Batt, Jordan’s parish, 1687

children: Peter (c. 1690-1738 md. Francis Anderson, dau. of John Anderson; Mary born (c. 1692-1725) md. John Worsham, s. of John Worsham & Phoebe Burton; Margaret (c. 1694-1729) md. Edward Goodrich, s. of Chas. Goodrich; Joshua md. Mary; Robt. md. Frances; Frances (c. 1697); William (1705-1778) md. Frances

was deeded land from Mrs. Rebecca Poythress 2/3/1693
testified in court proceeding re: Chas. Bartholomew and Rebecca Poythress for unlawful marriage, 1694
as militia officer and court justice of Chas. Cty. Co. took loyalty oath to King of England 1702
appointed interpreter with bro. Thos. Wynne to make peace among Nottaway, Meherrin & Seneca Indians 1702/3
Captain of militia by 1705
Major of militia by 1707
as Gentleman of Pr. Geo. Co. sold 150 acres in Surry Co.
appointed w/ Cpt. John Poythress, Sr., Col. John Hardyman, Cpt. Francis Mallory to investigate VA/NC line 1707
Major Wynne’s quarter was on the site of the old Nottaway Indian town 1707
sold 150 acres to Benj. Harrison, Esq., n/s Nottaway R., Surry Co., 1707
deeded tract of land, Surry Co., 1708
named with bro. Thos. Wynne & William Stainback as dividers of John Poythress estate 1712
shot and killed by Saponi Indians 3/29/1715 (age ~54) First document: 1693 (age ~32)

Neighbors: Thos. Wynne, Fountain, Batte

Chas. City Co.

—- Joshua Wynne 2 Feb 2 1693 [ ] Chas Cty Co/fm Rebecca Poythress

Surry Co.

—- Benjamin Harrison 28 Jun 1707 [ ] 150a Surry Co/plantation on N side Nottaway R