Ragsdale: Generation 3

Some Children of Godfrey Ragsdale & Rachel Rowlett

Information on 18th century Ragsdales can seem overwhelmingly complex without a map of Virginia and the dates of county formation.  As to the latter, the relevant counties and dates are: Henrico and Charles City were original shires; Prince George was formed from that portion of Charles City lying south of the James River in 1703; Brunswick was created from Prince George in 1732; Amelia was formed from both Brunswick and Prince George in 1735; Lunenburg from Brunswick in 1746; Dinwiddie from Prince George and Halifax from Lunenburg in 1752; and Mecklenburg was established from Lunenburg in 1765.

Rachel Ragsdale & Richard Jones

The information on Rachel and Richard Jones was drawn almost entirely from Gayle Lovelady Coberly's file on WorldConnect at Rootsweb and Kathryn Gearhart's website  at http://alliedfamilies.wordpress.com/virginia-jones-families/ .    For those who have, or suspect they have, Jones ancestors in early Virginia, the latter site is a must.

Richard Jones was born in Virginia Colony.  Depending on the source, Richard was either the son of Peter and Margaret Wood Jones or Rev. Richard and Martha Llewellyn Jones.  Before Rachel, he was married to and had at least one child with Amy Batte, daughter of Thomas and Mary Randolph Batte.

c. 1672: Rachel Ragsdale was born in Henrico County, Virginia.

1691: Richard was bondsman for the marriage of John Farrar to Mrs. Temperance Batte.[1]

15 Feb 1692: Rachel and Richard were married, with Peter Jones as security.

15 Oct 1698: Richard received a patent for 230 acres in Bristol Parish, Charles City [later Dinwiddie] County, on the south side of the Appomattox River extending to the western branch of Rohowick.[2] 

1704: Richard Jones paid quitrents on 600 acres in Prince George County, VA.[3]

26 Sep 1709: A trading company consisting of Richard Jones, Robert Hix, John Evans, David Crawley, and Nathaniel Urven posted a bond of £300 and were granted license to trade duty-free with the Indians - except the Tuscaroras and their allies.[4]  This fur trade was, needless to say, extraordinarily lucrative, as demonstrated by the large amount of land and slaves eventually accumulated by Richard.  The company passed to son Richard Junior.  Rachel's sister Katherine had married a Robert Hix on 18 May 1701.

1712: He was a captain in the Prince George County militia.

Aug 1713: He sold 221 acres on Rohowick and 6 acres by Brick House Run to Robert Munford.[5]

Jan 1715/16: Richard purchased 168 acres on the north side of Stoney Creek in Prince George [later Dinwiddie]  County from John and Sarah Evans.[6]  Sarah may have been Sarah Batte Evans.

5 Sep 1723: He received a grant for 521 acres on Stony Creek in Prince George County.[7]

Jun 1727: He and Robert Munford received a patent for 465 acres on the north side of the Roanoke River in Brunswick County.[8]

28 Jun 1725: He and Joshua Wynne were appointed by the Vestry of Bristol Parish to procession the plantations along Stony Creek.[9]

Sep 1728: Richard Jones, "Gent", patented 930 acres adjoining his own land.[10]

Jul 1735: He patented 1,623 acres up West Creek and Rocky Branch in Amelia County.[11]

8 Aug 1735: Richard Jones registered his livestock mark in Amelia County.[12]

Dec 1736: Richard Jones, "Gentleman" of Prince George County patented 650 acres on the Nottoway River "at the first point above the Meadow Branch" adjoining Robert Wynn and Hiccory Run in Brunswick County.[13] 

Feb 1737/38: He added another 400 acres on West Creek to his already vast holdings.[14]

He and Rachel moved to St. Andrew's Parish, Brunswick County, where he signed his will on 8 Aug 1747 . . . 

Will of Richard Jones[15]

In the name of God, Amen, the eighth day of August anno dom. MDCCXLVII

I Richard Jones of the Parish of St. Andrews in the County of Brunswick being very sick & weak in body but of good and perfect sound disposing mind and memory, for which I return my most hearty thanks to Almighty God and Son the Savior of Mankind, and my body I recommend to the earth to be buried at discretion of my Exors. hereafter mentioned and as to the worldly estate wherewith it has pleased Almighty God to bestow on me in this life I give and bequeath the same in manner and form following

Imprimis. I give and bequeath to my son Richard Jones, his heirs and assigns forever, one mulatto man named Robin and one negro woman named Judy together with her increase, and ten shillings current money of Virginia. 

Item. I give and bequeath to my son Daniel Jones and his heirs and assigns forever all my land being on the north side of Stoney Creek in the County of Prince George together with the plantation and premises and one negro girl named Martha, one negro girl named Jane, one negro girl named Hager, one negro girl named Betty, one negro boy named Tom, one mulatto man named Jeffery, and one negro boy named Jack, together with their increase.

Item. I give and bequeath to my son Thomas Jones, his heirs and assigns forever, one mulatto wench named Betty and one mulatto girl named Judy, together with their increase.

Item. I give and bequeath to my son Robert Jones, his heirs and assigns forever, four hundred and eighty acres of land by estimation lying and being on both sides of the Morton Branch in the County of Prince George and lying between the County and Church roads, together with one negro man named Jupiter and one negro girl named Hannah and her increase.

Item. I give and bequeath to my son Llewelling Jones, his heirs and assigns forever, six hundred and fifty acres of land lying and being in the County of Brunswick upon Nottoway River, together with the plantation and premises I now live on, and one negro man Antonio and one mulatto named Eastham, to him and his heirs and assigns forever.

Item. I lend to my dearly beloved wife during her widowhood or her natural life the use of the plantation I now live on together with all the goods and chattels I have not already given or devised.

Item. My will and desire is that my two daughters Martha Evans and Mary Jones, their heirs and assigns, to quietly and peaceably possess and enjoy all the estate I have already given them, and that after the decease of my dearly beloved wife Rachel Jones, whatever negroes I have left my said wife to be equally divided between my said two daughters, their heirs and assigns forever, together with the increase of the said negroes that shall be so left I give and dispose of in the same manner to my said daughters, their heirs and assigns forever.

   Item. I devise to my grandson Phillip Jones, son of Daniel Jones, my black horse.

Item. I constitute and appoint my dearly beloved wife Rachel and my well beloved son Llewelling Jones to be Exors to this my last will and testament and I utterly disallow, revoke, and disannul all other former wills & testaments, bequests and legacies by me before made, ratifying and confirming this and no other to be my last will and testament.  In witness whereof I have here unto set my hand and affixed my seal the day and year first above mentioned. 

Richard Jones

Signed, sealed, published and declared in the presence of

Henry Jones

Samuel S. Centel

Robert Whitehall

The will was proved in Brunswick County on 5 Nov 1747.  The inventory included 52 hogs, 18 pigs, 27 head of cattle, 2 old horses, 2 sheep, itemized personal goods, and slaves Jupiter, Tony, Eastham, Ciss, Sarah and her child, Mareigh and her child, Charles, boys Jack and George, and girls Judy and Frank.  The total was assessed at £394.15.5 1/2.[16]  His greatest assets, i.e. his trading company and lands, weren't included.

Rachel Ragsdale Jones died in 1758.

Children of Rachel Ragsdale and Richard Jones: While all researchers seem to agree that Richard Junior was the son of first wife Amy Batte, Kathryn Gearhart believes that Llewellyn and Robert were also Amy's sons.  For information on Llewellyn, Robert, and Richard, see http://alliedfamilies.wordpress.com/virginia-jones-families/.  Martha's  mother might have been either Amy or Rachel.       

Thomas Jones (c. 1693 -     ; m. Amy ______)

In 1727, Thomas owned 1,237 acres on the north side of the Nottoway River on both sides of Great Creek.[17]

Daniel Jones (c. 1694 -     ; m. Mary ______)

William Jones (c. 1697 -     )

He owned 265 acres on the north side of the Nottoway River in Prince George County.[18]

1730: William patented 444 acres on the north side of the Nottoway River at the mouth of Meiry Gut adjoining Matthew Sturdivant.[19]

Robert Jones

Llewellyn Jones

Mary Jones

Mary was still unmarried in 1747 when her father wrote his will.

Martha Jones (m. ______ Evans)

Godfrey Ragsdale (III) & Elizabeth Baxter Martin

c. 1676: Godfrey was born in Henrico County, VA.

He married Elizabeth Baxter Martin, the widow of John Martin, by whom she had one son, Christopher Martin. We can't be certain of their marriage year except that they were married before 20 May 1710 . . .

20 May 1710: Godfrey Ragsdale of Henrico County and "Elizabeth his wife" sold 65 acres to Peter Ragsdale for £20.  The parcel was described as lying on the north side of the Appomattox River, "near the Old Town, called the Convict Field, next to John Bevill, Thomas Webster, and my brother Peter Ragsdale".  Witnesses: George Archer and Henry Cabanis.  Elizabeth signed with her mark.[20]

Two days later, brother Peter Ragsdale "and Alice his wife" sold Godfrey 65 acres on the north side of the Appomattox River, "near the Old Town, Thomas's Meadow, my brother Daniel's line, and convict Creek".  The witnesses were again George Archer and Henry Canbanis.[21]

5 Nov 1718: Godfrey had 320 acres on the east side of Numison Creek in Prince George County surveyed.  This tract adjoined John Ellington.[22]

22 Jun 1722: Godfrey Ragsdell was granted 320 acres in Prince George County adjoining John Ellington and John Tucker.  When surveyed on 5 Nov 1718, the parcel was described as lying on the east side of Numisseen.[23]

5 Sep 1723: John Ellington received a grant for 320 acres between Mawhipponock and Nummisseen Creeks adjoining Ragsdale's corner.[24] 

17 Aug 1725: Godfrey Ragsdell was granted 335 acres on the north side of the Nottoway River, the upper side of Great Creek between Peter Jones and William Davis.  The 335 acres was probably a tract that was surveyed on 10 Dec 1722, described as lying on the north side of the Nottoway River between Reddy and Great Creeks.

Godfrey may also have purchased 335 acres on both sides of Oquits Branch adjoining John Bannister on Hatcher's Run and Francis West in August 1725.

25 Apr 1726: Godfrey signed his will in Henrico County . . .

Will of Godfrey Ragsdale[25]

I Godfrey Ragsdale of the County of Henrico.  To my son Godfrey this plantation I now live on.  To my sons John and Edward my tract of land at Nottaway River lying over the Great Creek near Edward Callwell.  To my brother Benjamin Ragsdale 160 acres of land lying upon Namosen.  To son-in-law [actually step-son] Christopher Martin the remainder part of the said Namosen tract of land.  To John Brown 100 acres of land lying at the upper end of the tract he formerly lived on lying on Youle's Branch.  I give and bequeath to my son Godfrey the remainder of the said tract of land lying upon Youle Branch.  Sheets, blankets, farm animals, etc. to daughter Ann, to daughter Rachel, to daughter Elizabeth, my loving wife.  I appoint my loving wife Elizabeth my whole and sole Executrix. 

Godfrey Ragsdale

Edward Caldwell was married to Elizabeth Baxter Martin Ragsdale's sister Tabitha, but who was John Brown?  And with so many children to provide for, why would he leave the 160 acres on Namosen Creek to brother Benjamin?

The will was witnessed by William Worsham, Robert Bevill, and William Powell.

24 Dec 1726: He purchased 45 acres in Bristol Parish from Daniel (x) Ragsdale for £5.  This parcel was "part of the plantation where said Daniel now lives", and adjoined the main road and George Archer.   Witnesses: Will Kennon, John Epes, and Christopher Martain.

8 Jan 1727/28: Godfrey sold 160 acres on Namosend in Bristol Parish to Benjamin Ragsdale.  This acreage adjoined John Tucker, John Ellington, Benjamin Ragsdale's Spring Branch, and Henry Cox.   Godfrey acknowledged the deed himself on 14 May 1728.[26]  This was the 160 acres on Namoses Creek willed to Benjamin in Godfrey's will.

28 Sep 1728: Godfrey Ragsdell was mentioned as an adjoining landowner in a grant to Abraham Jones for 235 acres on the lower side of Reedy Creek, north of the Nottoway River.  Others adjoining were Capt. Peter Jones and Thomas Thrower.[27]  Abraham Jones was the brother-in-law of Godfrey's brother Benjamin Ragsdale.

Jul 1731: Godfrey's will was proved in court.

In the Henrico County Tax List of 1736, "Eliz'a" Ragsdale was assessed for "Q-rents 190 acres land . . . Charged to her son Godfrey".[28]

June 1746: Elizabeth Ragsdale, Richard and Ann Bland, Edward and Tabitha Caldwell, and Sarah Royal sued John Cocker regarding the estate of their brother Edward Baxter, who died in 1720.[29]

Elizabeth Baxter Martin Ragsdale is believed to have died c. 1750.

Children of Godfrey and Elizabeth Ragsdale:

Godfrey Ragsdale IV (c. 1716 - 1755; Mary Bryan)

 According to Van Lee, Mary Bryan was the daughter of Frederick Bryan of Surry County.[30]

15 Apr 1732: Along with Elizabeth Duniven and [step-brother] Christopher Martin, Godfrey witnessed the will of Paul Hill.[31]  But if born c. 1716, Godfrey was only 16 years old.  Was he actually born before 1716 - Or was this a different Godfrey?

In the Henrico County Tax List of 1736, Godfrey Ragsdale was charged 3 levies, "To y'r Mot'rs Q-rents 190 acr L'd.  Paid by your order on Col. Kennon's accounts and by an Inspectors' note".  He was indeed listed in Col. Kennon's accounts under debits: "Godfrey Ragsdale 190 acres".[32]

Jan 1747: An inventory of the estate of Henry Royall taken by Godfrey Ragsdale, [brother] Drury Ragsdale, and Christopher Martin was presented in court.[33]

Nov 1751: He was named surveyor of the road from Bolling's Point to John Robertson's.  Among others, the laborers included Christopher Martin, John Bevill, and William Rowlett.[34]

Children of Godfrey and Mary Bryan Ragsdale:

Mary Sarah Ragsdale

Elizabeth Ragsdale

William Ragsdale (m. Mary Bryan)

4 Mar 1765: William and Mary Ragsdale sold 192 acres on the Appomattox River, "all the plantation where I now live", to William Thompson.  Witnesses: Field Archer, William Worsham, Francis Bevill, and Christopher Martin.[35]

1768: William Ragsdale of Prince George County purchased land on the north side of Woody Creek in Amelia County from John Crenshaw.

27 Jun 1771: William Ragsdale was mentioned as an adjoining landowner in a deed from Richard Jones to Richard Jones Junior in Nottoway Parish, Amelia County.  The parcel Jones conveyed was bought from Abraham Cocke and was described as lying on both sides of Woody Creek.  Other landowners adjoining were Henry Robertson, Samuel Sherwin, Richard Jones Junior, James Henderson, and the estate of John Irby.[36]

23 Sep 1771: He sold two properties.  The first was 58 acres in Nottoway Parish, Amelia County, to Richard Jones Junior for £47.10.0.   This was described as adjoining William Hudson, the John Irby estate, said Jones' own line, and land William "sells to William Hudson".  Witnesses: William Fitzgerald, Thomas (x) Wynne, Francis (x) Belsher, Abner Bates, and William Hudson.  The second parcel William sold was 149 acres in the forks of Woody Creek to William Hudson for £120.  This adjoined Richard Jones, the said Hudson's line, the middle of Woody Creek, Ragsdale's Spring Branch, and Henry Robertson.  On 31 May 1773, wife Mary relinquished any dower right to both parcels.[37]   The deeds were proved 24 Feb 1774.

26 Dec 1789: William married Ann Green Tucker in Prince George County.

William and Mary's children were Godfrey (born 14 Jan 1764; m. Elizabeth Mitchell 13 Jan 1789), Benjamin (m. Elizabeth Lorraine 4 Apr 1794), Frederick (m. Frances Louisa Wilkins 1790), Mary "Polly" (m. William Morris 1800), and Sarah Ragsdale (William Davis 1 Dec 1811).

Ann Ragsdale

John Ragsdale     See Too Many Johns

Tabitha Ragsdale (13 Mar 1721, VA -     )

Edward Ragsdale (8 Dec 1723, VA - 1780)

17 Dec 1779: Edward Ragsdale signed his will in Lunenburg County, mentioning wife Mollie, sons Edward, William, John, Baxter, and Joshua; daughters Martha Pettypoole, Ann Niblet, and Elizabeth, Tathy, and Jemima Ragsdale.  Executors: Edward and William Ragsdale.  Witnesses: Joshua,  John, and Letitia Ragsdale.  It was probated 13 Jul 1780.[38]

Rachel Ragsdale (Jun 1726, VA -     ; m. Stith Parham)

Elizabeth Ragsdale

Baxter Ragsdale (16 Jun 1730, VA -     ; m. Mary Williams)

12 May 1759: Baxter Ragsdale patented 400 acres on waters of Modies Branch adjoining Broadax and Brown.[39]

1760: Baxter and John Ragsdale were appointed to maintain the road from Reedy Creek Church to Flat Rock Church.[40]

1764 Tithables List, Charlotte County, VA: Baxter Ragsdale, 1 tithable.

Peter Ragsdale & Alice Drury Witton

 c. 1680: Peter was born in Henrico County, VA.

Peter married Alse or Alice Drury Witton, a widow with one son, Richard Witton.

20 May 1710: Godfrey Ragsdale of Henrico County and "Elizabeth his wife" sold 65 acres to Peter for £20.  The parcel was described as lying on the north side of the Appomattox River, "near the Old Town, called the Convict Field, next to John Bevill, Thomas Webster, and my brother Peter Ragsdale".  Witnesses: George Archer and Henry Cabanis.[41]

22 May 1710: Peter Ragsdale "and Alice his wife" sold Godfrey Ragsdale 65 acres on the north side of the Appomattox River, "near the Old Town, Thomas's Meadow, my brother Daniel's line, and convict Creek".  The witnesses were again George Archer and Henry Canbanis.  Alice signed with her mark.[42]

23 Mar 1724: Peter Ragsdell was named as an adjoining owner in a survey for George Roberson on the lower side of Smacks Creek.[43]

16 Jun 1727: Peter Ragsdell was granted 400 acres on the lower side of Smack's Creek in Prince George [later Amelia] County, VA.[44]  The tract had been surveyed for Peter Raggsdell on 27 Mar 1724.

Patents to other men in the Smack's Creek area mentioned Peter Ragsdale as an adjoining landowner: George Robertson on 13 Oct 1727; Thomas Roberts on both sides of Smacks Creek on 28 Sep 1730; George Wilson on 28 Sep 1732; and William Dunnevant on both sides of Bark Hours of Flatt Creek on 28 Sep 1732.[45]

Jun 1728: William Worsham presented the appraisal of the George Worsham estate in court.  The appraisers had been Peter Ragsdale, Peter Rowlett, and George Wilson.[46]

2 May 1729: Richard Kennon, Edward Tanner, and Peter witnessed the will of Essex Bevill.[47]

15 Oct 1729: Peter, John Bevill, and Henry Royall witnessed the will of George Archer.[48]

15 Apr 1732: He, Alexander Horton, and Thomas Webster witnessed the will of Elizabeth Bevill.[49]

1 Aug 1734: Peter Ragsdol received a patent for 399 acres on the upper side of Smack's Creek adjoining George Wilson, William Worsham, and his own line.[50]

In the Henrico County Tax List of 1736, Peter was assessed for 2 levies and 130 acres: "Clks fees. 1 qt rum. Paid. By cash and an Inspectors' note".[51]

Mar 1738: Along with Christopher Martin, Henry Royal, and William Archer, he was appointed to appraise the estate of James Vaughn.[52]

Aug 1738: Peter Ragsdale, Henry Royal, and Thomas Webster were appointed to appraise the estate of George Archer.[53]

8 Jan 1742/43: Peter signed his will in Henrico County . . .

Will of Peter Ragsdale[54]

In the name of God, Amen, this 8th day of January 1742.  I Peter Ragsdale of Dale Parish in Henrico County, planter, being very sick and weak in body but of perfect mind and memory, thanks be given to God therefor, calling unto mind the mortality of my body 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 and commend my soul unto the hands of God that gave it and my body I commend to the earth to be buried in a decent Christian-like manner at the discretion of my Executor, not doubting that at the General Resurrection I shall receive the same again by the mighty power of God, and as touching such worldly estate therewith it hath pleased Almighty God to bless me in this life, I give, devise and dispose of the same in the following manner and form.

Imprimis.  I give and bequeath to my well beloved son Drury Ragsdale (whom I likewise constitute, make and ordain my sole Executor of this my last will and testament) the plantation I now live upon and one feather bed.

Item. I give to my well beloved son Joseph Ragsdale, the plantation at Smack's Creek where [Peter's nephew] George Ragsdale now lives, joyning to George Wilson, quantity 200 acres of land.

Item. I give to my well beloved daughter Frances Matthews, and to her husband William Matthews for his life, one hundred acres of land joyning my son Joseph's land at Smack's Creek in Amelia County and to William Worsham's Branch.  If she should die without issue, then it is my will the said land shall return to my son Drury Ragsdale.

Item. I give to my loving kinsman, George Ragsdale, 50 acres of land in Amelia County, joining the [sic] William Worsham's line, lying between two branches which runs up to the road.

Item. I give to my well beloved son Godfrey Ragsdale all the remaining part of my land in Amelia County which Daniel Ragsdale now lives upon, and all the cattle upon the same plantation when he comes of age.  Till he comes of age, it is my will [that] Daniel Ragsdale should live upon said plantation and have use of the stock, upon condition he does not lessen the stock or let the plantation go to ruin.

Item. My negro Sam I likewise give to my well beloved son Godfrey Ragsdale when he comes of age.  Till that time, it is my will that my son Drury should have the use of the said negro Sam.

Item. I give to my son Godfrey my gray mare on the plantation I now live upon.

Item. I give to my son Joseph the gray horse at the plantation I now live upon, but if Drury will give him 5 pounds when he wants it to buy another, it is my will he should have him for the use of the plantation.

Item. I give to my daughter Frances a gray 3-year-old colt in the woods.

Item. I give to my son Godfrey the feather bed I now lye upon.

Item. I give to my son Joseph a feather bed.

Item.  All the remainder of my household goods I desire may be divided among my three sons at the discretion of my Executor.

Item. All the cattle on the plantation I now live upon, it is my will my son Drury should divide as he thinks proper to himself, his brother Joseph and sister Frances.

I do utterly disallow, revoke and disannul all and every other former wills, legacies and bequeaths and executors by me in any way before named, ratifying and confirming this and no other to be my last will and testament.

In witness whereof I hereunto set my hand and seal the day and year above written.

Peter Ragsdale

Signed, sealed, published, pronounced and declared by the said Peter Ragsdale as his last will and testament in the presence of us the subscribers.

Richard Witton

Henry Royall

Edward Ragsdale  [Probably the son of Godfrey & Elizabeth Baxter Ragsdale]

1 Feb 1745/46: He purchased 150 acres at the "Old Town" from James and Mary (x) Bevill for £150.  It was described as adjoining Col. John Bolling, Peter himself, Bates Run, and the cart path.  The deed was witnessed by George Ragsdale and John Herbert.[55]

20 Mar 1745: He and William (x) Worsham "the elder" sold 100 acres to [grandson] George Ragsdale for £10.  It consisted of two tracts, one granted to Peter and one to Worsham, and adjoined George White, Worsham, and Matthew Jackson.  Witnesses: Daniel Worsham and William Herringham.[56]

21 Mar 1745/46: He sold 360 acres on Smacks Creek and Worsham's Branch adjoining John Anderson and Daniel Wilson to George Christopher White for £120.  Of this, 200 acres were part of a patent to Peter dated 16 Jun 1727.[57]

14 May 1745: Peter was mentioned as an adjoining landowner in a deed from William (x) Dunnivant to Peter Worsham on Smacks Creek.  Others adjoining were George Ragsdale, Thomas Walthal, Phillip Dunnivant, and Matthew Jackson.[58]

Apr 1747: Peter's will was proved in court by Richard Witten and Edward Ragsdale.  Son Drury turned in the appraisal the following August.  The appraisers were Christopher Martin, Richard Witton, and William Archer.[59]  Christopher Martin was the son of Elizabeth Baxter Martin Ragsdale, wife of Godfrey III.

Children of Peter and Alse Drury Ragsdale:

Frances Ragsdale (c. 1705 -     ; m. William Matthews)

Drury Ragsdale (c. 1720 - 1750; m. Sophia Waller)

13 Jan 1743: Drury Ragsdale, Richard Whitton, and Charles Martin witnessed a deed from Richard Dickerson to Matthew Dodd in Henrico County.[60]

13 Mar 1745: Along with Roger Atkinson and William Archer, Drury witnessed a deed from William Goode to Richard Witton and James Murray, merchants.  The 300 acres was on the north side of the Appomattox River on a branch of Middle Creek.[61]

12 Jan 1746: Drury was granted 370 acres on the south side of the south fork of Falls Creek and on the north side of Little Haines Creek in Brunswick County, VA.[62]

Jan 1747: An inventory of the estate of Henry Royall taken by Godfrey Ragsdale, Christopher Martin, and Drury was presented in court.[63]

Aug 1747: Drury turned in the appraisal of his father Peter's estate.[64]

5 Oct 1747: He was named as an adjoining landowner in a deed from Christopher Martin to Godfrey Ragsdale.[65]

6 Sep 1748: He witnessed a deed from Henry Randolph of Dale Parish to William Poythree of Bristol Parish for 447 1/2 acres.  Other witnesses were Christopher Martin and Field Archer.[66]

May 1749: Drury presented an inventory of the William Matthews estate in court.  It had been taken by William Worsham, John Robertson, and James Robertson.[67]

Faith Ragsdale (24 Oct 1722 -     )

Joseph Ragsdale (17 Jan 1724/25 - Dec 1799; m. Frances Bevill)

8 Jan 1742/43: Joseph was bequeathed 200 acres on Smacks Creek in his father's will.  However, on 20 Mar 1745, Peter sold 200 acres to [grandson] George Ragsdale.  Was that a different 200 acres?[68]

26 Apr 1751: Joseph Ragsdale and Richard Witton were named executors in the will of brother Godfrey Ragsdale.[69]

4 Sep 1751: Joseph Ragsdale was named as an adjoining landowner in a deed from James and Ann (x) Bevill et al to Edward Tanner in Amelia County.  The property was located at the head of a small spring branch on the north side of Winticomake Creek and also adjoined John Crowder, Judea Israel, and the said Bevills.  He was named again on 24 Sep 1751 when William Bevill Junior et al sold land to Abraham Burton.  This parcel was bounded by the mouth of Bevill's Branch and the Licking Branch.  Joseph was also mentioned in at least 5 deeds in the vicinity of Wintocomake in 1752.[70]

23 Oct 1751: He and Edward Tanner witnessed a deed from James and Ann (x) Bevill et al to Edward Bevill for land on the north side of Winticomake Creek.[71]

30 Jan 1752: He, Edward Bevill, and Edward Tanner witnessed a deed from James and Ann (x) Bevill et al to Joseph Bevill on the north side of Winticomake Creek.[72]

23 Apr 1752: Joseph Ragsdale and Matthew Wells were securities for Ann and William Tisdale, administrators of the William Tisdale estate.[73]

23 Nov 1753: Joseph Ragsdale of Lunenburg County sold 196 acres on the ridge between Wintocomake and Sweathouse Creeks to John Tucker for £47.  It was bounded by Bevill, Newman, and Joseph's own property.  Witnesses: Edward Tanner, Edward Bevill, and John Powell.[74]

10 Oct 1759: John Ragsdale, Neavill Gee, and Joseph Ragsdale witnessed a deed from Charles Gee of Sussex County to Henry Gee of Lunenburg County.[75]  Also that same month, perhaps the same day, John and Joseph witnessed a deed of gift from Charles Gee Senior of Sussex County to son Neavel Gee of Lunenburg County.  The property was located on the branches of Crooked Creek in Lunenburg adjoining Booker, Cook, Edloe, and Ragsdale.  For information on possible John Ragsdales, see Too Many Johns.

21 Feb 1760: Joseph Ragsdale, John (x) Adams, and John White witnessed a deed from Elisha Brooks to Edward Bevill for 50 acres on the south side of Allen's Creek in Mecklenburg County,VA.[76]

Ann Ragsdale (25 May 1727 -     )

Rachel Ragsdale (27 Feb 1732/33 -     )

Godfrey Ragsdale (c. 1736 -     )

Jan 1747: An inventory of the estate of Henry Royall taken by Godfrey Ragsdale, Drury Ragsdale, and Christopher Martin was presented in court.[77]

5 Oct 1747: He traded parcels in Dale Parish with Christopher Martin.  Martin's to Godfrey was bounded by the main road, Drury Ragsdale, and Godfrey's own land; Godfrey's to Martin adjoined Richard Wilton, Martin's land, and Porters Swamp.[78]

2 Mar 1750: Godfrey Ragsdale of Lunenburg County sold 300 acres to Daniel Wilson for £100.  The land was identified as that "given him by his father Peter Ragsdale, being land & plantation on which Daniel Ragsdale formerly lived".  Witnesses: Richard Willson, Andrew Graham, and Frances Witton.[79]

26 Apr 1751: Godfrey signed his will in Lunenburg County, VA.  He instructed that his plantation in Amelia County be sold.  Estimating that the property would bring £100, he bequeathed £40 to Peter Ragsdale, son of brother Peter;  £20 each to Frances and Drury Ragsdale, children of brother Drury, the money to earn interest until each married or reached their majority, and if either died without heirs, the money was to pass to brother Joseph; £20 to "my brother Richard Witton; and slave Sam to brother Joseph.  Executors: Joseph Ragsdale and Richard Witton.  Witnesses: Andrew Graham, Thomas (x) Saunders, and Margaret (x) Davis.  It was signed with Godfrey's mark.  The will was probated 3 Oct 1751, with Robert Jones Junior acting as security for executor Richard Whitton's bond.[80]  Richard Whitton was Godfrey's step-brother.  Some abstracts omit Frances, daughter of Drury Ragsdale, others give Drury and James as the children of Drury - confusing to say the least.

Benjamin Ragsdale & Martha Jones

c. 1693: Martha Jones, daughter of Captain Peter and Mary Batte Jones, was born in Prince George County, VA.[81]  The Jones were neighbors of the Ragsdales.   James Hooper claims a birth year of 1701.

c. 1698: Benjamin was born in Henrico County, VA after his father Godfrey had signed his will.

Based upon the age of their eldest child, Benjamin and Martha were married c. 1723.  Some, however, claim that Mary was Benjamin's second wife, that he had earlier married Mary Lightfoot.  If true, the maternity of his oldest children is called into doubt.  Others believe that Mary Lightfoot Talley, widow of Richard Talley and daughter of Sherwood Lightfoot, was his second wife.  I'm unable to verify or refute either claim at this time.

9 Jan 1727: Benjamin's much older brother Godfrey conveyed [lease and release] 160 acres on Namoses Creek in Prince George County to Benjamin for 5 shillings for one year.  This same land had been given to Benjamin in Godfrey's will, dated 26 Apr 1726, but Godfrey didn't die until 1731.   The parcel was bounded by John Tucker, John Ellington, Benjamin Ragsdale's Spring Branch, and Henry Cox.[82]  Namozine Creek flows in a northeasterly direction forming the line between the present-day counties of Amelia (west side) and Dinwiddie (east side).  The 160 acres became part of Dinwiddie.

21 Apr 1727: Along with James Epes, John and David (x) Ellington, and Henry Cox, Benjamin witnessed the sale of 100 acres on the north side of the Appomattox River to Christopher Martain, the parcel adjoining Godfrey Ragsdale, George Archer Senior, and the main road.[83]  Daniel was Benjamin's nephew, son of Daniel and Amy Maulding Ragsdale.  Christopher Martin was the son of Elizabeth Baxter Martin Ragsdale, wife of Godfrey III.

27 Sep 1730: He received a grant of 200 acres in Prince George County, VA, on the headwaters of Sampson's Branch and Winticomack Creek.[84]  He nevertheless apparently continued to reside on the Namoses tract.  Winticomack, lying in Amelia, parallels Namozine on the west.

14 Jul 1752: Benjamin Ragsdale of Dinwiddie County sold 200 acres at the head of Simpson's Branch and Winticomake Creek adjoining Robert Tucker in Amelia County to James Tucker of Dinwiddie County for £30.[85]  Witnesses: Pat Mullins, George Burrus, Richard George, all of Amelia County.  See also bond 17 Aug 1752.

23 Jul 1752: He and Robert Tucker were mentioned as adjoining landowners in a deed from William Crawley to William Hudson in Amelia County.[86]

17 Aug 1752: Benjamin posted a bond for £50 to affirm that he would allow James Tucker "quiet and peaceable possession of land conveyed to him by deed" dated 13 Jul 1752.  Witnesses: Patrick Mullen, John and Mary (x) Cordle.[87]

11 Sep 1752: Benjamin was among the many landowners and waterways cited as adjoining the 1,249 acres sold by William Crawley to William Coleman in Amelia County.[88]

6 Nov 1753: He was among the tithables in Lunenburg County appointed to clear a road from the mouth of Woodpecker Creek to the court house.  Others appointed were John Ragsdale and Augustine Roling, with Thomas Wilborne as surveyor.[89]  Woodpecker Creek is located in present-day Mecklenburg County, just east of State Highway 49.

21 Dec 1753: He purchased 678 acres on both sides of the middle fork of Bluestone Creek in Lunenburg County, VA, from Hugh Miller.[90] Bluestone Creek meanders through present-day Charlotte County just west of its border with Mecklenburg County, but crosses into Mecklenburg before joining the Roanoke (Staunton) River. Mecklenburg County was formed from Lunenburg in 1765.

4 Oct 1757: He conveyed two parcels of land: 1) 200 acres on Middle Bluestone Creek to son John; 2) 100 acres on the south side of Bluestone adjoining John to [son-in-law] Augustine Rowland for £10.[91]

8 Apr 1758: Along with Peter and William Jones, he witnessed a deed from John Ornsby to Henry Jones in Amelia County.[92]

24 Sep 1758: Benjamin Ragsdale, John Ragsdale, and Augustine Rowland witnessed the will of Loflin Flynn in Lunenburg County.[93]

29 Sep 1758: Benjamin Ragsdale, Thomas Morris, and Richard Hinton witnessed the will of Abraham Jones of Amelia County.[94]  Abraham was the brother of Martha Jones Ragsdale.

1759: He and William Hunt posted bail for William Harris and William Lidderdale after a suit was brought against the latter by the executors of the Thomas Hawkins estate.[95]  Lidderdale is, of course, Lauderdale, but whether defendant Lidderdale was a member of the Botetourt County family included on this website isn't known.

Dec 1761: Benjamin Ragsdale, Abram Crowder, and Peter (P) Hamlin witnessed a deed from William Harris to John Smith of 400 or 500 acres on both sides of the middle fork of Bluestone Creek.  Or was this actually Benjamin Junior?

5 Oct 1762: The court in Lunenburg exempted him from any future county levies, no doubt due to his age.[96]  This was a matter of law for any citizens who reached the age of 64.

18 Feb 1764: Along with David Christopher, John Glen, and John Simbridge, Benjamin witnessed a deed for 496 acres from William and Mary Mitchell of Granville County, NC, to William Dousin of Brunswick County, VA.  The parcel was actually located in Lunenburg [later Mecklenburg] County on a branch of Butcher's Creek.[97]

25 Aug 1764: Benjamin Ragsdale and Robert Tucker were mentioned as adjoining landowners in a deed from William (x) Hudson to Richard Newman in Amelia County.  The grantor and grantee, however, resided in Dinwiddie County.[98]

7 May 1765: He was mentioned as an adjoining landowner in a deed from Robert Rowland for 100 acres [which included a mill] on the east side of the middle fork of Bluestone Creek to Charles Burton.  The property in question also bordered the parish line, Hugh Magvay, and [son] John Ragsdale, and had been once owned by Benjamin Ragsdale but deeded by him to Augustine Rowland, who in turn deeded it to Robert Rowland.  Hutchins Barton was one of the witnesses.[99]  Robert Rowland was the son of Augustine Rowland, who had married Mary Ragsdale.   Richard Rowland and Hutchins Barton were  sons-in-law of John Ragsdale, Benjamin's son.

12 Oct 1765: For £100, he sold 100 acres on both sides of Bluestone Creek at the mouth of Woodpecker Creek, described as "plantation where Mark Moore now lives" and "part of a tract purchased from Hugh Miller", to [son-in-law] Mark Moore.  Witnesses: Charles Burton, Hutchins Burton, and Susannah Burton.[100]

1770: James Poole, orphan of Alexander Poole, was bound out to Benjamin Ragsdale.[101]  But was that Benjamin Senior or Junior?

29 Dec 1770: Benjamin signed his will . . . .

Will of Benjamin Ragsdale[102]

In the name of God, Amen.  I Benjamin Ragsdale of the County of Mecklenburg and Parish of St. James, being in perfect sense and memory, thanks be to God for the same, but calling to mind the uncertain state of this transitory life, well knowing that all men was born to die and after that to come to Judgment, allow this to be my last will and testament.

First I give my soul to God that gave it and my body to be decently buried and all costs and charges to be paid by the bear of [sic] Executor.  I desire that all my debts, _____ and demands that I have against any man and any man against me be contended and paid, and now for setting of my temporal estate.

Item. I give unto my son Daniel two cows and one steer with what I have already given which he hath in his possession.

Item. I give to my son John all that I have already given which he hath now in possession.

Item. I give unto my daughter Mary Rowland all that I have already given her which she hath now in possession.

Item. I give to my son Richard all that I have already given which he hath now in possession. 

Item. I give unto my son Peter all that I have already given which he hath now in possession.

Item. I give unto my son Thomas all the land that I own on the lower side of Blue Home [should be Blue Stone] Creek to him and his heirs forever.

Item. I give unto my daughter Winnefred one bed and furniture.

Item. I give unto my son Godfrey one bed and furniture.

Item. I give unto my son Jesse one bed and furniture.

Item. I give unto my son William all my other estate of every kind and all my household furniture.

Item. I give unto my son Benjamin the land that I am possessed [of] lying on the upper side of Blue Stone Creek ____, the plantation where I now live and my son Benjamin lives, to him and his heirs forever, only my will is that my son William be possessed the house and plantation where he now lives is called mine during the life of my beloved wife and that my son William shall not molest the house and plantation that is called my son Benjamin's.

Last of all I appoint my son William Executor to this my last will and testament, as witness my hand and seal this twenty ninth day of December one thousand seven hundred and seventy.

Benjamin (x) Ragsdale

Signed, sealed and delivered in the presence of

Stephen Clark

Thomas (x) Wilburn

John (x) Wilburn

11 Mar 1771: Benjamin Ragsdale Senior sold 50 acres on the upper side of Middle Bluestone Creek to William Ragsdale.[103]

29 May 1772: Benjamin's will was proved in Mecklenburg County. 

Children of Benjamin and Martha Jones Ragsdale:

Daniel Ragsdale (9 May 1724 - c. 1793; m. Phoebe Wilson)

9 Apr 1748: Daniel Ragsdale, Dail Coleman, and Edward Tanner witnessed a deed of gift from James (x) Tucker of Prince George County to James Tucker [Junior] in Amelia County.  The 300 acres was bounded on one side by Winticomack Creek.[104]

26 Oct 1780: William Willson et al - the latter including "Daniel Ragsdale and Phoebe his wife" - sued John Willson, eldest son and heir of John Willson Senior, deceased, in Amelia County.[104a]

1793: Along with James Allen, Frederick and Obediah Ragsdale, Phoebe Ragsdale, "wife of Daniel, deceased", sold 440 acres in Pittsylvania County, VA to George Washington Thompson.[105]

Rachel Ragsdale (28 Jun 1726 -     ; m. Mark Moore)

John Ragsdale (23 Jun 1728 - 1794; m. Frances ______)    

Mary Ragsdale (1729 - 1772; m. Augustine Rowland)

Winnifred Ragsdale (17 Feb 1730/31 -     ; m. Michael Johnson)

Richard Ragsdale (17 Feb 1730/31 - c. 1814; m. Barsheba ______)

Jun 1777: Richard Ragsdale of Mecklenburg County sold 200 acres on the middle fork of Bluestone Creek to Richard Gregory.  The tract adjoined Crowder, Burton, Tanner, Hubbard, and Cheatham.[105a]

Benjamin Ragsdale (28 Mar 1734 - 1 Jan 1815; m. Susannah Price)

William Ragsdale (     - 1824; m. 1st Ann Parker c. 1753, m. 2nd Mary Daniel Isbell 4 Feb 1812)

Peter Ragsdale (     - 16 Sep 1799; m. Sarah Charlton)

Godfrey Ragsdale (c. 1740 - 1791; m. Judith Ligon)

Jesse Ragsdale (c. 1745 - c. 1827; m. Margaret Glenn)

1782 Mecklenburg County Tax List (List of Lewis Burwell): 1 male over 21, 0 cattle, 2 horses, mules or colts.[106]

Thomas Ragsdale (c. 1747 -     ; m. Mary Comer)

14 Feb 1783: Thomas sold 100 acres in Mecklenburg County to John Bruce for £50, "the tract of land that the said Bruce now lives on".  It was described as adjoining John and Benjamin Ragsdale, Hutchens Burton, Sampson Lamkin, and Thomas and John Berry.  Witnesses: John Ragsdale, Drury (x) Ragsdale, and William Ragsdale.[107] 

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