ABney Genealogy

Descendants of Edmund Abney

Sept 2005

Generation No. 1

1. EDMUND¹ ABNEY¹ died 01 Apr 1604¹. He married CATHERINE LUDLAM¹ 1587 in Leichester, England². She was born in Leichester, England³, and died Unknown.

Notes for EDMUND ABNEY:

He is buried in the chancel of St. Mary's Church. His will was probated in the Prerogative Court of Canterbury. source: Colonial Families in the U.S.

Leicestershire: Leicester - Register of St. Mary, 1600-1738

Calendar of Wills Proved and of Administrations Granted in the Commissary Court of the Peculiar and Exempt Jurisdiction of Groby, 1580-1800.

1604. Baptisms, Marriages and Burials.

County: Leicestershire

Country: England

Edmund Abney, gent., buried 01 Apr 1604

More About EDMUND ABNEY:

Burial: Unknown, Chancel of St. Mary's Church³

Will: Probated in the Prerogative Court of Canterbury³

Children of EDMUND ABNEY and CATHERINE LUDLAM are:

2. i. PAUL² ABNEY, d. 10 Jun 1634, Leicester, England.

ii. DANNETT ABNEY³, d. 31 Aug 1669, Leicester, England^3,4; m. (1) ANNE GLADWIN⁵; d. 01 Aug 1632, Leicester, England⁶; m. (2) JOANE SLATER⁷; d. Unknown.

Notes for DANNETT ABNEY:

Was Mayor in 1640 and 1660. He d. in 1669, without issue surviving him. Source Colonial Families in the U.S.

iii. ISABELLE ABNEY⁸, d. 12 Mar 1605, Leicester, England⁸.

Notes for ISABELLE ABNEY:

Leicestershire: Leicester - Register of St. Mary, 1600-1738

Calendar of Wills Proved and of Administrations Granted in the Commissary Court of the Peculiar and Exempt Jurisdiction of Groby, 1580-1800.

1605. Baptisms, Marriages and Burials.

County: Leicestershire

Country: England

Isabell, dau. of Edmund Abney, bur. 12 Mar 1605

iv. KATHERINE ABNEY⁸, d. Unknown; m. RICHARD SMYTHE⁸, 28 Jun 1604, Nottingham, England⁹; d. Unknown.

Notes for KATHERINE ABNEY:

Nottinghamshire: - Abstracts of Marriage Licenses. 1: Archdeaconry Court, 1577-1700 2. Peculiar of Southwell, 1588-1754

Marriages.

Nottingbamsbire Marriage Licences Arcboeacon's Court

1604.

County: Nottinghamshire

Country: England

28 Jul 1604. Richard Smythe, of Nottm., dyer, & Katherine Abney, d. of Edmund Abney, late of Leic., dec., gent.; at St. Peter's.

v. DANNETT ABNEY¹⁰, d. Unknown.

vi. MARIA ABNEY¹⁰, d. Unknown.

Generation No. 2

2. PAUL² ABNEY (EDMUND¹) died 10 Jun 1634 in Leicester, England^11,12. He married MARY BROOKSBY¹³, daughter of GEORGE BROOKSBY and ELLA GOODWIN. She was born in Stapleford, Leichestshire, England¹³, and died Unknown.

Notes for PAUL ABNEY:

He entered his pedigree with the Heralds of the college of Arms on their visitation to Leicester in 1619. He d. 1634, and is also buried in the chancel of St. Mary's. His will and inventory are in the District Registry of the High Court of Leicester. Source: Colonial Families of the U.S.

Notes for MARY BROOKSBY:

She was from Stapleford County of Leichester. Source: Colonial Families of the U.S.

Children of PAUL ABNEY and MARY BROOKSBY are:

3. i. GEORGE³ ABNEY, b. 1613, Leicester, England; d. 03 May 1661.

4. ii. PHILLIP ABNEY, b. 1623, Leicester, England; d. Unknown.

iii. FRANCIS ABNEY¹⁴, b. 1615, Leicester, England¹⁴; d. Unknown.

iv. ELIZABETH ABNEY¹⁵, d. Unknown.

v. JOHN ABNEY¹⁵, d. Unknown.

vi. MARY ABNEY¹⁵, d. Unknown.

vii. DOROTHY ABNEY¹⁵, d. Unknown.

viii. RICHARD ABNEY¹⁵, d. Unknown.

ix. PAUL ABNEY¹⁵, d. Unknown.

x. ANNE ABNEY¹⁵, d. Unknown.

xi. CATHERINE ABNEY¹⁵, d. Unknown.

xii. JOAN ABNEY¹⁵, d. Unknown.

Generation No. 3

3. GEORGE³ ABNEY (PAUL², EDMUND¹)¹⁶ was born 1613 in Leicester, England¹⁶, and died 03 May 1661^16,17. He married BATHSHUA DANNETT¹⁸. She died 1712¹⁹.

Notes for GEORGE ABNEY:

He married Bathshua in the troublous times of the Civil Wars and was buried in the chancel of St. Mary's on 3rd May. He left no will, and the administration of is estate was granted to his widow May 1661 by the prerogative Court of Canterbury. Source: Colonial Families of the U.S.

Néel de Aubigné who accompanied William "The Conqueror" to England from his ancestral home 25 miles north of Cherbourg, France, was my ancestor.

I was baptized at St. Mary’s, Leicester, England, 11 July 1613, the son of Paul Abney and Mary Brokesby. My wife, Bathshua, and I were the parents Abraham Abney who died in England, and Paul Abney and Dennett Abney, of Virginia.

They buried me in the chancel of St. Mary’s on 3 May 1661. Since I left no will, the Prerogative Court of Canterbury granted my widow administration of my estate May 1661.

Bathshua married second Rev. Joseph Lee (1620-1694), the rector of Cotesbach, County of Leicester, at St. Mary de Castro in Leicester, 7 February 1663/4. Their only child, little Bathshua Lee, died before she was two months old.

After making her will in the borough of Leicester 8 January 1706/7, Bathshua lived another five years and was buried at St. Mary de Castro 31 August 1712. They proved her will the next month, 22 September 1712. She left an estate of just £9:13:2 Source: John W. Pritchett

Notes for BATHSHUA DANNETT:

Bathshua’s will of 8 January 1706/7 named as her executor widow Anne Orton of Leicester and Anne’s sons, William Orton. The will of her husband, Joseph, had identified William Orton as a "mercer," or textile dealer.

Will of Bathshua Lee

8 January 1706/7

In the Name of God Amen. I Bathshua Lee of the Burough of Leicester in the County of Leic., widdow being weak in Body but of sound and perfect mind and memory thanks be to God. Yet considering the nessity of my naturall life doe make and ordaine this to be my last Will and Testament in manner and forms following. That is today I first give and bequeath my Soul into the hands of Almighty God my Creator hoping to be saved by and through the alone meritts of Jesus Christ my Savious and Redeemer And my Body I committ to the Earth from whence itt came to be buryed in a decent manner att the discretion of my Executors hereinafter named And as touching that worldy Estate which God of his Goodness had bestowed upone me I dispose thereof as follows.

In primis. I give and bequeath unto m. Edmund Spencer of the said Burough of Leicester, That my Booke being the Third Volume of Sermons of the late Reverend Thomas Manton Dr. in Devinity.

Item. I give and bequeath unto Anne Orton of the Burrough aforesaid widdow and William Orton her son five shillings apiece.

Item. I give and bequeath All the rest and residue of my goods and Chattles and personal Estate whatsoever after all my debts and funeral Expenses are paid and dischared there of if any shall then remaine unto my Son Dannett Abney. And I hereby make nominate and appoint the said Anne Orton and William Orton the Joint Executors of this my last will and Textaments, revoking all forms & Writts by me ever made. In Witness whereof I the said Bathsua Lee have heretofore sett my hand and Seale thie Eighth day of January Ann Dom 1706. Source: John W. Pritchett

Children of GEORGE ABNEY and BATHSHUA DANNETT are:

5. i. PAUL⁴ ABNEY, b. 14 Jan 1653, Leicester, England; d. Abt. 1696.

ii. ABRAHAM ABNEY²⁰, b. 07 Sep 1655, Leicester, England²⁰; d. Unknown.

6. iii. DANNETT ABNEY, b. 26 Feb 1659, Leicester, England; d. 05 Feb 1732, Charlottesville, Virginia.

4. PHILLIP³ ABNEY (PAUL², EDMUND¹)²¹ was born 1623 in Leicester, England²¹, and died Unknown.

Child of PHILLIP ABNEY is:

7. i. JOHN⁴ ABNEY, d. Unknown.

Generation No. 4

5. PAUL⁴ ABNEY (GEORGE³, PAUL², EDMUND¹)²² was born 14 Jan 1653 in Leicester, England^23,24, and died Abt. 1696²⁵. He married MARY LEE^26,27, daughter of JOSEPH LEE and UNKNOWN. She was born Bet. 19 Jan 1663 - 1664 in Leichestershire, England²⁸, and died Aft. 1732²⁹.

Notes for PAUL ABNEY:

Bap. at St. Mary's 14th Jan. 1652-53; went to the Spanish Main and Virginia as a Lieutenant on the Frigate Josiah; settled in Nansemond county, Virginia., as a planter 1690, and d. there circa 1696; m. Mary Lee. Source: Colonial Families in the U.S.

Evidently through his cousin, Sir Thomas Abney, Lord Mayor of London, Paul secured a place on a sloop in the Virginia trade with the rank of Lieutenant on Sept 15, 1679. After 1686 he remained in Virginia and had his brother Dannett bring his fiancee, Mary Lee, from England. After Paul's death Dannett married her. Source: Darla Meng

Paul Abney, son of George and Bathshua (—) Abney, was baptized at St. Mary’s, Leicester, 22 January 1653/4. Lt. Paul Abney arrived in Virginia in 1690 on the frigate Josiah and settled in Nansemond County. His wife was said to be Mary Lee, a daughter of Joseph Lee, but there is no evidence.

Paul was alive in 1686 and died about 1696.

One known son, George Abney, later lived near the family of Paul’s brother Dennett Abney presumably because this uncle raised him. Other unplaced Abneys were in the Colony and could have been sons of Paul Abney. Another Paul Abney who witnessed the will of Dennett Abney may have been a son. Source: John W. Pritchett

Child of PAUL ABNEY and MARY LEE is:

8. i. GEORGE⁵ ABNEY, b. 1697, Virginia; d. Sep 1766, Halifax County, Virginia.

6. DANNETT⁴ ABNEY (GEORGE³, PAUL², EDMUND¹) was born 26 Feb 1659 in Leicester, England³⁰, and died 05 Feb 1732 in Charlottesville, Virginia^31,32. He married MARY LEE^33,34, daughter of JOSEPH LEE and UNKNOWN. She was born Bet. 19 Jan 1663 - 1664 in Leichestershire, England³⁵, and died Aft. 1732³⁶.

Notes for DANNETT ABNEY:

Dannett baptized at St. Mary's, 26th Feb. 1659; came with his step-brother, John Lee, of Nansemond County, 1692, married Mary, became a planter, and having done his share in helping to conquer the forests, d. in March 1733. From him descend Capt. Nathaniel Abney of the Revolution, and his cousin Dr. Nathaniel Abney, a surgeon in the Revolution, both of whom had removed to South Carolina prior to that time, Col. Joseph Abney of the Civil War, Dr. John Pope Abney, Dr. John Bey Abney and Dr. Mathew Wills Abney, surgeons in the same war, from that State and Captain William Abney of Augusta County, Virginia. Source: Colonial Families in the U.S.

July 7, 1724

King William County., Virginia

Grantee

Page A

280 Acres of land in St. Paul’s Parrish, Hanover County, 400 acres in St. George Parrish Spotsylvania County, Virginia.

John Wilkins of St. George parish Spotsylvania County, Planter to Dannett Abney, Senr. of St. Margaret’s Parish King Wm. County., cooper and Dannett Abney Junr. Of St. George Parrish, Spotsylvania County carpenter 4600 lbs tobacco and 280 acres of land in St. Paul’s Parish Hanover County, 400 acres in St. George Parrish Spotsylvania granted said Wilkins by patent Received July 7, 1724. James Conner by virtue of a power of attorney, did acknowledge "Mary Wilkins" right of dower of her said husband’s land. Note: This land record was originally published in "Virginia County Records – Spotsylvania County, 1721-1800 Volume I" edited by William Armstrong Crozier.

Virginia Land, Marriage, and Probate Records, 1639 – 1850

Abney, Dannitt, Spotsylvania County. d. Feb.5,1732,

Wit. Paul Abney, Abner Abney, William Trusty, Mary Abney.

Ex. Mary Abney.

Leg. wife, Mary Abney to whom is given the entire estate and upon her death she is to give to the children that are most dutiful to her.

"I was baptized in St. Mary’s Church, Leicester, England, 26 February 1659/60 and was in Virginia by 20 April 1684 when John Lee secured a patent to 960 acres in Upper Parish of Nansemond County, Virginia.

I lived out my life in present-day Spotsylvania County where Mary and I reared perhaps as many as seven children. Dennett, Abraham, Barsheba, and Rebecca settled in Halifax County, Virginia, and Nathaniel, in South Carolina.

You might say I was in the container business. Nearly everything, including tobacco, transported to and from Virginia was shipped in barrels or casks. I was a cooper — I made and repaired barrels for a living.

I was in my 70s when I prepared a will that Paul Abney, Abner Abney, William Trusty, and my daughter-in-law Mary Abney, "ye younger," witnessed 5 February 1732/3. Unlike most Colonial fathers, I did not divide my estate among my children, but left it to Mary, known as "ye elder," to distribute the estate to our children "who were most dutiful to her." By the way, "ye" is pronounced the. " Source: John W. Pritchett

"Record fragments show Dennett Abney bought 200 acres in King William County from James Honey and his wife, Margaret Dixon, in 1704. This was part of a 600-acre patent in King William (later Spotsylvania) County the Honeys got 23 October 1703. Among the Honey headrights for this patent was Thomas Hill whose son would marry Dennett’s daughter.

Dennett Abney appeared several times in the court records of Spotsylvania County. He sued John Kingbrow 1 September 1724 but they dismissed the case the next month. He served on a grand jury 4 May 1725, and registered his earmark — over-keel and under-keel on right ear, crop on left — on 1 November 1726. With George Carter and John Wilkins, the court twice, 6 June 1727, ordered him to appraise some cattle at issue in lawsuits.

On 22 June 1722 John Wilkins secured a patent to 400 acres in King William (now Spotsylvania) County next to Christopher Smith. On 7 July 1724, he sold this tract along with 280 acres in St. Paul’s Parish of Hanover County to Dennett Abney Sr. of St. Margaret’s Parish, King William County, cooper, and Dennett Abney Jr., of St. George’s Parish of Spotsylvania County, carpenter. The Abneys paid 4,600 pounds of tobacco.

On 28 September 1728 Dennett Abney and Thomas Hill got 419 acres next to Dennett Jr. When Zachary Lewis Gent. got 1,000 acres the same day, his neighbors included Dennett Abney and Thomas Hill. Zachary Lewis (1702-1765) was a distinguished lawyer, a vestryman of St. George’s Parish (1728), and a representative to the Virginia House of Burgesses (1758-61).

Dennett Abney was living 2 October 1733 when Dennett Abney Sr. of Spotsylvania County, planter, and Mary, his wife, and Dennett Abney Jr. of Hanover County, planter, and Mary, his wife, conveyed the 400 acres they bought from John Wilkins to Humphrey Hill. " Source: John Pritchett

His last will and testament

"Exactly one year after Dennett wrote his will, widow, Mary, presented it to the court and they ordered Dennett Abney Jr., heir-at-law, to appear and state whether he objected to the will. The court admitted the will to record 7 February 1733/4. Mary sold 209 acres — half the 419 acres her husband held with Thomas Hill — to Edwin Hickman 4 November 1735. The Abneys then disappeared from the records of Spotsylvania.

Dennett Abney did not identify his children by name so we cannot identify them all. Dennett’s brother, Paul Abney, of Nansemond County, died about 1696 and we believe Dennett raised his children of whom George Abney was one. Paul Abney who witnessed Dennett Abney’s will may have been another. We postulate Dennett was the father of these Abney men who surrounded him a generation later: Dennett Abney, Abraham Abney, and Nathaniel Abney. His daughter Rebecca Abney married Edward Dean and it is likely that a daughter named Barsheba Abney married Thomas Hill. Two were definitely Ursula and Paul." Source: John W. Pritchett

Other unplaced Colonial Virginia Abneys were undoubtedly descendants of brothers, Dennett Abney or Paul Abney. Daniel Abney was on the Halifax County poll lists in 1764 and 1765 and James Abney was on the Halifax County poll lists in 1765.

Although they were in the colony before 1700, no Abney paid quit rents in 1704. The Abney family lived probably in the area of King William County that became Spotsylvania County in 1720. They appeared first in Spotsylvania County records about 1724 and held land in Henrico County in the 1740s though they apparently lived in Hanover County during this time. By 1749 four Abneys were in Lunenburg County in the area that became Halifax County in 1752: Dennett Sr., Dennett, George, and Abraham. Many Abneys were later in Edgefield District, South Carolina. Only one Abney — Reuben Abney — appeared in the enumeration of heads of households in Virginia in 1782-5. Ten Abneys served during the Revolution from South Carolina. By 1810 only two Abneys were in the Virginia census: Isabella Abney and William Abney of Augusta County. Both were descendants of my Dennett Abney. Source John W. Pritchett

Marriage Notes for DANNETT ABNEY and MARY LEE:

Dennett’s wife, Mary —, is thought to have been Mary Lee, a daughter of his stepfather, Joseph Lee, and the widow of his brother Paul Abney. Not only is there no evidence of such a connection, there is no evidence that Joseph Lee had a daughter named Mary. Source: John W. Pritchett

Children of DANNETT ABNEY and MARY LEE are:

i. URSULA⁵ ABNEY³⁷, b. 11 Jun 1693, Glouchester, York County, Virginia³⁷; d. Unknown; m. GUILLAUME WITT³⁷; d. Unknown.

9. ii. DANNETT ABNEY, b. 1695, Virginia; d. 1757, Hanover County, Virginia.

10. iii. PAUL ABNEY, b. 14 Dec 1699, Albermarle, Virginia; d. Aft. 1786, Virginia.

11. iv. ABRAHAM ABNEY, b. 27 Dec 1702, Abington Parish, Gloucester, Virginia; d. 04 Jun 1783, South Carolina.

12. v. MARTHA ABNEY, b. Abt. 1705, Albermarle, Virginia; d. 15 Mar 1759.

13. vi. BATHSUA ABNEY, b. Abt. 1708, Virginia; d. Aft. 25 Oct 1773, Cumberland, Virginia.

14. vii. ABNER ABNEY, b. Abt. 1711; d. 1752, Albermarle, Virginia.

15. viii. MARY ABNEY, b. Abt. 1714; d. Aft. 1747, Fluvanna, Virginia.

7. JOHN⁴ ABNEY (PHILLIP³, PAUL², EDMUND¹)³⁸ died Unknown.

Notes for JOHN ABNEY:

Was mayor in 1770. Source: Colonial Families in the U.S.

Child of JOHN ABNEY is:

i. JOHN⁵ ABNEY³⁸, d. 1744³⁸.

Notes for JOHN ABNEY:

He was Rev. John Abney who was Vicar of syston and d. in 1744, he geing the last male of Edmund's branch left in England. A monument to his memory was erected in that Church. Source: Colonial Families of the U.S.

Generation No. 5

8. GEORGE⁵ ABNEY (PAUL⁴, GEORGE³, PAUL², EDMUND¹)³⁹ was born 1697 in Virginia⁴⁰, and died Sep 1766 in Halifax County, Virginia^40,41. He married (1) UNITY MEREDITH^42,43 in Halifax County, Virginia⁴⁴, daughter of SAMUEL MEREDITH and ANN EPPES. She was born 1700⁴⁵, and died Unknown. He married (2) ANNE KEY⁴⁵. She was born 1705 in Virginia⁴⁵, and died 1775 in Albermarle, Virginia⁴⁵. He married (3) UNKNOWN⁴⁵. She died Unknown.

Notes for GEORGE ABNEY:

George of Henrico Parish, Virginia; m. Unity; was a planter, and owned lands in Henrico, Lunenberg, Halifax and Charlotte Counties. He d. on his plantation in Halifax County 1766. His will was proved there on the 16th Oct. 1766. Source: Colonial Families of the U.S.

30 Aug. 1728

p. 206

Thomas East, Sr. of St. Pauls Parish, Hanover County, planter, to George Abney of same, for 190 lbs tobacco, on north side of James River on Gillies Creek, bounded by John Bailey and the creek, 200 acres; part of 400 that East purchased of John Robinson 1 Aug. 1704, the 400 being divided between George Abney and John Lefon.

Wit: Thomas (T) East, Jr., John ( ) Robertson

Alex’r (+ ) Robinson

Signed: Thomas (T) East) Recorded 1st Mon. Sept 1728

20 Jun. 1733

Daniel & Abraham Abney, 570 a NL, Henrico County., N. side James R.; white oaks being formerly John Robinsons corners; c. of George Abney; W. side of Hell Garden Path parting the sd. George Abney, Daniel Abney & Abraham (p. 72) Abney; S. br. Of Gilly’s Cr.; crossing the main Rd. 20 Jun. 1733

January 1, 1735-36

Proceffioned the following lines. Between John Stweed and William Finney; Between William Finney and Judith Cocke. January ye 12, Between Mr. Jofeph Mayo and Wilbfbier Marrien; between Mr. James Frankling; Between Thomas Robertfon and Eln’r Williams; Between Mr. Jofeph Mayo and Thomas Robertfon. January ye 125th, Between James Frankling and Thomas Robertfon; Between Thomas Robertfon and William Burton; William Burton and Alex’r Robertfon and Jofeph Mayo; Between Alexander Robertfon and Abram and George Abney…

Source Vestry Book of St. John’s Church, Henrico County. Virginia p. 29

Isaac Winston Pltf. vs George Abney, Deft. Petition exhibited for pounds 2:8d; curr. & 5 lbs. tobo. due by bill under Deft. hand & seal dated June 2, 1736. Judgement for Pltf. against Deft. for the sd. sum and cost of this suit & 7s:6d: as a lawyers fee. Feb 5, 1738. Valentine Papers Vol. 1-4 1864-1908 p.66.

St. Johns Church

Seventh precinct. All below the mouth of Gilley’s Creek and Corneliuf’s, on James River, and to Extend back as far as Seven pines Road, and as low as the Southern Branch Bridge. ffrans. Redford, Gilly, Marrin and George Abney are proceffioners.

3 June 1737

p. 623

John Leson of Henrico County., to William Spragins, of same, for 700 lbs tobacco, 54 acres on south side of Gilleys Creek

Witness: Pleasant Cocke, George Abney

Signed: John Leason Recorded 1st Mon. June 1737

Anthana, wife of John, relinquished her dower rights.

January 1, 1740

In Obedience to an order of Veftry, held of Henrico Parifh the 21ft day of July 1739, we, the subscribers, have been in proceffion and renewed the Bounds of the following lands, viz:….

/s/ Per Gillie Marrin

/s/ George Abney

Source Vestry Book of St. John’s Church, Henrico County. Virginia p.57

Lunenburg County

Tithables list taken by William Caldwell in 1749. Contributed by W. S. Morton

Abney, Dennet 1

Abney, Dennet, Sr. 0

Abney, George 1

Abney, Abraham 1

(Surv.d R.W.) Jas. Cary enters 50 acres joining the upper line of Mattock Mays’s Tract on Cutawbo Cr. Transferred to Geo. Abney

Source: Entry Record Book 1737-1770 (Land entries in the present Virginia Counties of Halifax, Pittsylvania, Henry, Franklin, and Patrick) p. 29

(Void) Geo. Abney enters 200 Acres Beginning on William May’s back line then off. Pd. R.W. 9/8 Rts. Rts. Drawn

Source: Entry Record Book 1737-1770 (Land entries in the present Virginia Counties of Halifax, Pittsylvania, Henry, Franklin, and Patrick) p. 51

(Surv.d J.T) Geo: Abney enters for 400 Acres of land on Stinking Rr. Beg: at the three forks running up and down. Supposed to be on Majr. Stiths Book.

Source: Entry Record Book 1737-1770 (Land entries in the present Virginia Counties of Halifax, Pittsylvania, Henry, Franklin, and Patrick) p. 54

Granted 200 a in Lunenberg County, Virginia by King George II, Aug 20, 1750.

About 1750

… Abney 400 on that side of the above … of Meads next to the Indian Creek thence extend … and round for Complement.

And

… 400 Acres on Ellis’s Creek adjoining Abney’s …

And

… the Branches of Cuttawbo Creek adjoining Abneys upper line …

Source: Entry Record Book 1737-1770 (Land entries in the present Virginia Counties of Halifax, Pittsylvania, Henry, Franklin, and Patrick) p. 118

May 16, 1755

Ordered that George Abney, Thomas Prewit, and William Russell, do view the way from Hunt’s Ferry to the said William Russells.

Plea Book 1, Halifax County, Virginia 1752 – 1755

William Russell and George Abney, 2 of the persons appointed to view the road from Hunts Ferry on Staunton to said Russell, returned a report.

Plea Book 1, Halifax County, Virginia 1752 – 1755 p. 47

Thomas Tabb, Plt, vs George Abney, Deft, On a petition for 4 pounds 9 shillings & 4 pence said to be due by acct. This day came the plt by his atty, but the deft did not appear. Said account being produced, judgment for plt for said debt + costs & 7 shillings & 6 pence for an attorney’s fee.

Plea Book 1, Halifax County, Virginia 1752 – 1755 p. 53

Page 87. Ordered that Abraham Abney, George Abney, and John Dean view, lay off, and mark the best and most convenient way from the dwelling house of William Vaughan to said William’s plantation in his low grounds on the River.

Plea Book 1, Halifax County, Virginia 1752 – 1755

George Abney is appointed surveyor of the road leading from Russells Road to Hunts ferry. Ordered that Abraham Abney, Thomas & William Spraggins and their tithables, Jas Norrell & his tithes, Thomas Prewett "& his", John Farmer, and John Willard, be his gang & that they clear & keep the road in repair.

Plea Book 1, Halifax County, Virginia 1752 – 1755 p. 88

The Churchwardens of the Parish of Antrim bind Nanny and Sarah, daughters of Lucy Valentine to George Abney.

Plea Book 1, Halifax County, Virginia 1752 – 1755 p. 83

March 18, 1756

Ordered that Abraham Abney, George Abney, and John Deen, do view, lay off, and mark the best and most convenient way from the dwelling plantation of William Vaughan to his, said William’s plantation in his low grounds.

Plea Book 1, Halifax County, Virginia 1752 – 1755 p. 113

The former order made here for Abraham Abney, George Abney, and John Dean to view, lay off and mark the best and most convenient way from the D___.. of William Vaughan to his said, said Vaughan’s … not being performed is discharged… proceed no further.

Plea Book 2, Halifax County, Virginia 1755 – 1758 p. 75

George Abney is appointed Constable in place of Nathaniel Abney, who is discharged from that office. Ordered that said George go before a magistrate of H, to qualify.

Plea Book 2, Halifax County, Virginia 1755 – 1758 p. 93

20 Joseph L. Hunt – Inventory & Appraisement

…. Appraisers: George Abney, Richard Brown, John Owen

Returned: 18 March 1756

Source Will Book 0

1752 – 1773, Halifax County, Virginia. P. 2

Rachel Hunt named Administratrix of Joseph Hunt, dec’d with James Hunt and George Abney her securities.

And

On motion of Rachel Hunt, Admrx. Of Joseph Hunt, dec’d, John Owen, Richard Brown, William Vaughan and George Abney, or any three of them, to value the personal estate and negroes (if any) and report.

Plea Book 1, Halifax County, Virginia 1752 – 1755 p.97

1 May 1756

Thomas Spraggin, 454acs. Lunenburgh County. on the S side of Catawbo Cr. Adj. Max, Thomas, Hodges, George Abney & Abraham Abney; 16 Aug 1756, p. 70 45 Shill.

Virginia Land Patents Book #33, VGSQ Vol. XXXII, #2, 1 May 1994

21 Pursuant to an Order of the County Court of Halifax bearing Date the Seventeenth Day of July last past for this Vestry to appoint Processioners & according to Law. Whereupon it is Ordered that William Vaughan, George Abney, Thomas Prewet and Abraham Abney do Procession the Bounds of every particular Persons Lands from the Mouth of Buckskin up Stanton to the Mouth of Childrey, up Childrey to the head thereof, thence to the head of the Couth Fork of Terrible, and down the same to the Courthouse Road, thence to the beginning. And it is further Ordered that the Processioners aforesaid begin their said Work on the first Monday in January next, and take and return to the Vestry on or before the last Day of March next ensuing an Account of every Persons Land they shall so Procession and of the Persons present at the same, and what Lands in their Precincts they shall fail to Procession and the particular Reasons of such failure.

Source: Vestry Book of Antrim Parish, Halifax County, Virginia 1752 – 1817 p. 17

Ordered that George Abney and Robert King View the Church near Hannah’s which Richard Brown undertook the building of and Report to the next Vestry their Opinions of the Strength and Workmanship thereof.

Source: Vestry Book of Antrim Parish, Halifax County, Virginia 1752 – 1817

p. 25

The former Order made for George Abney and Robert King to View the Church built by Richard Brown near John Hannah’s not being performed the same is discharged and it is Ordered that the said George Abney and Nathaniel Hunt do View the said Church and Report their Opinions of the goodness and whether the same be done in a Sufficient Workman like manner to the next Vestry

Source: Vestry Book of Antrim Parish, Halifax County, Virginia 1752 – 1817 p. 31

Spraggins, William.

12 May 1759.

Available on microfilm. Virginia State Land Office. Patents 1-42, reels 1-41.

Location: Halifax County. Description: 400 acres on the branches of Catawba Creek adjoining George Dennet and Abraham Abneys land. Source: Land Office Patents No. 34, 1756-1765, p. 270 (Reel 33-34). Part of the index to the recorded copies of patents for land issued by the Secretary of the Colony serving as the colonial Land Office. The collection is housed in the Archives at the Library of Virginia.

Abney, George.

20 August 1760.

Available on microfilm. Virginia State Land Office. Patents 1-42, reels 1-41. Location: Lunenburg County. Description: 420 acres on the branches of Stanton river adjoining James Hunt, Cunningham &c. Source: Land Office Patents No. 34, 1756-1765, p. 657 (Reel 33-34). Part of the index to the recorded copies of patents for land issued by the Secretary of the Colony serving as the colonial Land Office. The collection is housed in the Archives at the Library of Virginia.

November Court 1760

Page 182

Ordered that George Abney, to whom Ann and Sarah Valentine, poor orphans, were bound by the Churchwardens… next Court and that he then and there produce the indentures by which sd orphans were bound.

Halifax County Plea Book 3, 1760

February Court 1761

Page 194

Ordered that the Churchwardens of Antrim Parish do bind Sarah and Ann Valentine to George Abney

Halifax County Plea Book 1761

360 a in Lunenberg County, Virginia by King George II, July 1, 1761 beginning at Dannett Abney Jr's and Abraham Abney's four corners. Source John Hensell.

Abney, George.

1 July 1761.

Available on microfilm. Virginia State Land Office. Patents 1-42, reels 1-41.

Location: Lunenburg County. Description: 360 acres adjoining his own and the lines of Dennit and Abraham Abney. Source: Land Office Patents No. 33, 1756-1761 (v.1, 2, 3 & 4 p.1-1095), p. 1041 (Reel 31-32). Part of the index to the recorded copies of patents for land issued by the Secretary of the Colony serving as the colonial Land Office. The collection is housed in the Archives at the Library of Virginia.

Virginia Land Patents, Book 33, VGSQ Vol. XXXIII, #2, 1 May 1995

16 March 1762, p. 289

George Abney of Halifax County. to Mattox Mays of same, for pound 40, 200 acres on both sides of Mayses Cr, beg. At a red oak thence north … along Abraham Abneys line…the Saplin Ridge… All houses, orchards, gardens…

Signed George Abney, Unity Abney

Wit: Nat. Abney, Sam. Abney, William Hill, Joseph Mayes

Unity , wife of George Abney relinquished her right of dower.

Deed Book 1, 1752 – 1759 p. 60

May Court 1762

A deed from George Abney to Mattox Mayes was ack., and Unity, the wife of sd George, relinquished dower; OR.

Halifax County Plea Book 1762

June Court 1763

Page 60

Nathaniel Terry, Gent, Plt, vs George Abney, Deft, Ona petition. The parties having agreed, suit dismissed.

Halifax County, Virginia, Court Orders, 1763 – 1764 (Plea Book 4)

Abney, George.

27 June 1764.

Available on microfilm. Virginia State Land Office. Patents 1-42, reels 1-41. Location: Halifax County. Description: 400 acres on the branches of Mays’s Creek adjoining the land of William Roy. Source: Land Office Patents No. 35, 1762-1764 (v.1 & 2 p.1-556), p. 537 (Reel 35). Part of the index to the recorded copies of patents for land issued by the Secretary of the Colony serving as the colonial Land Office. The collection is housed in the Archives at the Library of Virginia.

6 November 1764, p. 402

George Abney of Halifax County. to Charles Harway (also Harraway) of the other part, for pound 51, 360 acres, beg. At a red oak cor. Bet. Sd Abney & Mattock Mayes, thence south…an oak bet. Sd Abney & Thos. Spraggins,… William Glass’ line… R. Robertson Hunt’s line… it being the same tract that Nathl. Abney now lives on… All houses, orchards, gardens, fences…

Signed: George Abney

Wit: Leonard Keeling, Wm. Abney, George Tillery

Recorded 20 June 1765

Halifax County, Virginia, Deed Books 2,3,4,5 & 6, 1579 – 1767, p. 136

April Court 1765

Page 37

A deed from George Abney to Charles Haraway was proved by the oath of one of the witnesses, and OC.

Halifax County, Virginia, Court Orders 1764 – 1766 (Pleas Book No. 5, Part 1)

June Court 1765

Page 57

A deed from George Abney to Charles Harraway was ack and OR.

Halifax County, Virginia, Court Orders 1764 – 1766 (Pleas Book No. 5, Part 1)

September Court 1765

Page 189

George Abney and William Hill, Plts, vs John Martin, Deft, In Case. This day came the parties by their attys, and thereupon came also a jury, to wit, William Womack, Richard Perryman, Abraham Little, Robert Throcknorton, Benjamin Dickson, (Page 190) Jeremiah Morroh, Henry Hardin, John Wade, Ephraim Hill, Richard Murphy, Adam Loving, and Francis Bucknall, who say that the Plts have sustained damages by reason of the breach of a certain promise and assumption by the Deft to the Plts made, and their costs, to 9 pounds 10 shillings. Judgment for the Plts for their damages afd, and their costs.

Halifax County, Virginia, Court Orders 1764 – 1766 (Pleas Book No. 5, Part 1)

September Court 1765

Page 220

Thomas Cobbs, Gent, Sheriff, Plt, vs George Abney, Danat Abney, Thomas Spragins, and William Hill, Defts, In Debt.

This day came the Plt by Paul Carrington, his atty, and thereupon came also a jury, to wit: Robert Throcknorton, Jeremiah Morroh, Henry Harden, John Wade, Ephraim Hill, Richard Murphy, Adam Loving, and Francis Bucknall, who say that the Plt has sustained damages by reason of the breach of the condition of the Writing Obligatory in the declaration mentioned, besides his costs, ….

Halifax County, Virginia, Court Orders 1764 – 1766 (Pleas Book No. 5, Part 1)

October 1765

211 George Abney – Will

"..weak in body and perfect mind & memory.."

To my son Dennat Abney 240 acres adjoining John Fuquas land in Sherlot County. To my well beloved wife the plantation whereon I now dwell with the stock & furniture & empliments thereon during her life it being part of 400 acres & is to contain 200 acres. To my well beloved son Samuel Abney 200 acres being part of sd 400 adjoining Captain Spragins land & James Norell, Junr.s land on the Great Creek. To my well beloved son William Abney 200 acres adjoining William Glass & Charles Harroway. I give the plantation & stock with moveable at his mothers decease unto my well beloved son Michael Abney (Cum on ere).

Exr: Sons Samuel Abney & William Abney my soal executors Wit: Nath.l Barksdale, Thos. Spragen, James Norrell, Senr., William Hill

WP 16 October 1766. Proved by three of wit. The Executors refusing to take upon them the execution hereof, Certificate granted to David George.

Sec: Isaac Read & John Williams.

Source Will Book 0

1752 – 1773, Halifax County, Virginia. P. 34

July Court 1766

Page 254

Ordered that the widow, relict, and executrix, Samuel Abney, and Wiliam Abney, executors of the will of George Abney decd, be summoned to appear at the next Court to produce sd will.

Halifax County, Virginia, Court Orders 1764 – 1766 (Pleas Book No. 5, Part 1)

October Court 1766

Page 381

The will of George Abney, decd, was exhibited in Court and proved by the oaths of 3 of the witnesses, and OR. And the executors therein appointed refusing to act, on the motion of David George, certificate for obtaining letters of administration of the estate of the sd Testator is granted him, he having, with Isaac Read and John Williams, Gent., his securities, entered into bond.

Halifax County, Virginia, Court Orders 1766 – 1767 (Pleas Book No. 5, Part 2)

October Court 1766

Page 382

On the motion of David George, Administrator of George Abney, decd, it is ordered that Mattox Mays, Nathaniel Barksdell, Thomas Spragins, and Robert Robinson Hunt, do value the personal estate and Negroes (if any) of sd George Abney, and return an inventory and appraisement.

Halifax County, Virginia, Court Orders 1766 – 1767 (Pleas Book No. 5, Part

8 November 1766 by James MacCraw, Samuel Abney, Benjamin Abbott, Charles Hunt, Unity Abney, Thomas Spragins, Charles Cobbs, Daniel Jones, Samuel Crafford, Dennett Abney, Sam Norrel, Nat Barksdale.

Total: 35.11.5. ¾

Signed Jas. Bates, Nath.l Barksdale

Returned: 20 July 1769

December 1766. We have settled the current value of the estate of George Abney, decd & find in the Admrs. hands a balance of 2.0.1. ¾

Signed: Jas. Bates, Nath.l Barksdale

Returned 20 July 1769

Source Will Book 0

1752 – 1773, Halifax County, Virginia. P. 43

18 December 1766

214 George Abney – Inventory & Appraisement

Among items listed: cattle, hogs, horses, mares, colt, household goods, churn, carpenters tools.

Sworn as the law directs

Dated: 16 October 1766 Total 42.8.3

Appraisers: Nath.l Barksdale, Thos Spragen, Mattox Mays

Returned: 18 December 1766

Source Will Book 0

1752 – 1773, Halifax County, Virginia. P. 34

Spraggins, Thomas.

23 February 1767.

Available on microfilm. Virginia State Land Office. Patents 1-42, reels 1-41.

Location: Halifax County. Description: 400 acres on the branches of Cuttawbo Creek adjoining George Abney’s land. Source: Land Office Patents No. 36, 1764-1767 (v.1 & 2 p.557-1083), p. 1026 (Reel 36). Part of the index to the recorded copies of patents for land issued by the Secretary of the Colony serving as the colonial Land Office. The collection is housed in the Archives at the Library of Virginia.

8 November 1768

George Abney – Accounts Current

Due 8 February 1768 to David George

Int. on do 15 May 1765 to this date which is 1 yr 8 mo & 23 days. To a lawyers fee, 1766 September to a subpano for a sit. To prove Abneys will. To Sheriff of Halifax for summoning Samuel Abney & Wm. Abney to produce George Abneys will. To pd for returning the widdor Abney not found on the summons. Summoning Wm. Hill, Thomas Spragins & James Norrell to prove Abneys will. To clerk of Halifax at suit of Yuille.

8 November 1766 to 5 pints of Rum gave to the buyers. To Secretary Nelsons tickets for tickets for record.

George Abney [1868.1.1] (-1766) was living St. Paul’s Parish, Hanover County, when he bought 200 acres on Gillie Creek in Henrico County from Thomas East Sr. of Hanover County 30 August 1728. George had wife Unity —. At the March Court 1741, Henrico admitted to record a deed conveying land from Abraham and George Abney to Robert Lee. Unity and Cassandra relinquished their dower right. George and Unity alone deeded land to Alexander Robertson at the March Court 1742.

Lunenburg County tithe lists show George Abney and Dennett Abney next to Mattox Mayes in 1748-1752.

George secured patents to three tracts in 1760-4: 420 acres on the branches of the Staunton River in Lunenburg (now Charlotte) County 20 August 1760, 360 acres next to his land and that of cousins Abraham Abney and Dennett Abney 1 July 1761, and 400 acres on the branches of Mayes Creek in Halifax County 27 June 1764. When he sold 200 acres on Mayes Creek to Mattox Mayes 16 March 1762, Unity relinquished her dower right. Yet no wife relinquished a dower right 6 November 1764 when George sold 360 acres — land on which Nathaniel Abney was living — to Charles Harraway.

George Abney was on the Halifax County poll list 17 July 1765.

George died in Halifax County in October 1766 (will dated 13 Oct. 1765, recorded 16 Oct. 1766). He identified four sons and no daughters in his will and though his wife was still alive he did not mention her by name. Nathaniel Barksdale, Thomas Spraggins, James Norell Sr., and William Hill witnessed his will. He devised 810 acres to his sons. The nominated executors refused executorship and the court granted certificate of administration to David George. They inventoried his estate 16 October 1766 and David George reported accounts current of George Abney 8 February 1768.

A son not named in his will was Nathaniel Abney identified as George’s son in a 1763-suit in Halifax County. A daughter was likely Dorcas, a daughter who traditionally joined her brothers in South Carolina. Source: John W. Pritchett

More About GEORGE ABNEY:

Will: 16 Oct 1765⁴⁶

Children of GEORGE ABNEY and UNITY MEREDITH are:

16. i. DANNETT⁶ ABNEY, b. 1731, Halifax County, Virginia; d. 30 Dec 1809, Edgefield District, South Carolina.

17. ii. DORCAS ABNEY, b. Abt. 1732, Virginia; d. 1804, Edgefield District, South Carolina.

18. iii. NATHANIEL ABNEY, b. 04 Apr 1734, Halifax County, Virginia; d. 29 Jul 1806, Edgefield District, South Carolina.

19. iv. WILLIAM ABNEY, b. 05 May 1736, Halifax County, Virginia; d. 04 Jan 1832, Edgefield District, South Carolina.

20. v. MICHAEL ABNEY, b. 1740, Halifax County, Virginia; d. 1812, Edgefield District, South Carolina.

vi. SAMUEL ABNEY⁴⁷, d. Unknown.

Notes for SAMUEL ABNEY:

inherited 200 acres on Great Creek next to Capt. Spraggins and James Norell Jr. This was probably the 200 acres he sold to Thomas Spraggins 17 July 1767. Samuel was on the 1764 poll list in Halifax County. He sold 100 acres in Halifax County to Thomas Spraggins for £18 19 April 1770, and was in South Carolina by 1772. He died in Edgefield District, South Carolina, in 1802 leaving wife, Mary —. Source John W. Pritchett

Children of GEORGE ABNEY and ANNE KEY are:

vii. MILLY⁶ ABNEY⁴⁸, b. 1743; d. Unknown.

21. viii. JOHN ABNEY, b. 1745, Virginia; d. 1788, Staunton, Augusta County, Virginia.

Child of GEORGE ABNEY and UNKNOWN is:

ix. ELISHA ABNER⁶ ABNEY⁴⁸, b. 1743, Fluvanna, Virginia⁴⁸; d. 1797, Virginia⁴⁸.

9. DANNETT⁵ ABNEY (DANNETT⁴, GEORGE³, PAUL², EDMUND¹)⁴⁹ was born 1695 in Virginia^49,50, and died 1757 in Hanover County, Virginia⁵⁰. He married MARY MEREDITH⁵¹, daughter of SAMUEL MEREDITH and ANN EPPES. She died Unknown.

Notes for DANNETT ABNEY:

July 7, 1724

King William County., Virginia

Grantee

Page A

280 Acres of land in St. Paul’s Parrish, Hanover County, 400 acres in St. George Parrish Spotsylvania County, Virginia.

Virginia Land, Marriage, and Probate Records, 1639 – 1850

Spotsylvania County. Virginia Records 1721-1800 by William Armstrong Crozier

On page 92 evidently a John Wilkins had died and his wife sold land to Dannett Abney Jr. The notice read: July 7, 1724, John Wilkins of St. Geo. Par,. Spts. County Planter to Dannett Abney, Junr of St. Geo. Par. Spts. County. Carpenter 4600 lbs Tob. and 280 a. of land in St, Pauls Par. , Hanover County. 400 a. in St. Geo. Par. Spts County. granted sd. Wilkins by patent. Witnesses; John Kembrow, John X. Gamball, John X. Dolly, Rec. July 7, 1724. James Conner by virtue of power of Attorney , did acknowledge "Mary Wilkins right of dower of her said husband's land."

20 Jun. 1733 Daniel & Abraham Abney, 570 a NL, Henrico County., N. side James R.; white oaks being formerly John Robinsons corners; c. of George Abney; W. side of Hell Garden Path parting the sd. George Abney, Daniel Abney & Abraham (p. 72) Abney; S. br. Of Gilly’s Cr.; crossing the main Rd. 20 Jun. 17

June 30, 1733, granted 570a in Henrico County., Virginia jointly with brother Abraham, which land lay near George Abney's.

Patented 2900a land in Hanover County., Virginia August 26, 1748.

August 9, 1759 sold 800a in Halifax County., Virginia to Nathaniel Spraggins.

Abney, Dannitt.

1733, 1734.

Part of index to Spotsylvania County Wills and Administrations (1722-1800)

p. 209-210. Will pro. 3 Mar. 1733/4. p. 212. Inv. rec. 2 Apr. 1734. Will Book A, 1722-1749 (Reel 26)

In the name of God, amen. I Dennet Abney of the county of Hanover and parish of St. Paul's; (being sick and weak in my body but of sound mind and memory) Do make & constitute this, my last Will and Testament in manner and form following, Viz. I give and bequeathe unto Jesus Christ my soul, ~ which I believe he has redeemed, and my body I commit to the earth in hopes of a Joyfull resurrection at the last day; As for my Temporal affairs ~ (as God has been pleased to blefs me with I give as follows. I do appoint my loving Wife Mary Abney, and George Sharrer & Thomas Perry my sons in Law executors of this my last Will and Testament,......... Item I give and bequeathe unto my son Reuben Abney this tract of Land in Hanover County whereon I now live, and a negro Girl called Nanney. I give and bequeathe unto my son in Law Thomas Spragens a Tract of Land in Lunenburg County containg one hundred and seven Acres and also in Hallifax County a tract of Land containg two hundred and fifty acres. I give and bequeathe unto Skip Richardson a tract of Land in Hallifax County in Cotobah Creek, containing three hundred acres. I give and bequeathe unto my brother Abraham Abney a tract of land in Hallifax County on the lower side of _____ Cotobah Creek Containing four hundred and fifty acres being the entry I bought of George Machan. ~ Item I empower my executors to sell a Tract of Land in Hallifax County laying on a branch commonly called Lick branch; containing eight hundred acres, which money after paying my lawful debts to be equally divided amongst my wife Mary Abney, Reubin Abney, Ruth Sharrar & Sarrah Abney Item, my six negroes Viz. Esquire Will, Roane Oak Will, Hagar, Janey, Hercules ~ I desire may be equally divided amongst my Wife, Reuben Abney, Ruth Sharrer and Sarah Abney, as they can agree among themselves. Item my Desire is if my wife Mary Abney should depart this life before my son Reubin Abney arives to the age of twenty one years, that then my son in law Thos Perry move to the place where I now live, & have the care & bringing up of my son Reubin Abney. Item if my son Reubin Abney depart this life before he have any lawful Ifhue, it is my desire that the land as I have already given to him be equally divided amongst Maacah Spragens, Ruth Sharrer, Millesent Perry ~ & Sarah Abney and the negroes, if he depart this life before he have lawful Ishue to be divided between Ruth Sharrer & Sarah Abney. Item I order that their shall be no appraisement upon my estate, nor any Inventory be returned to Court Signed by my hand & seal this third day November one thousand seven hundred & fifty six

Dannitt Abney [Seal]

Test

Thos Perry

William Wills

Nicholas Scherer

George Scherrer

At a Court held for Hanover County on Thursday the 7th day of July 1757 This last Will & testament of Dennet Abney deceased was exhibited in Court by Mary Abney the executrix therein named who took the oath of an Executor thereto, & was also proved by the oath of William Wills & Nicholas Scherrer two of the Witnefses thereto & admitted to record

Test

William Pollard DC.HG

January 1811 A copy Teste

Tho. Pollard DC.H.

"Dennett Abney Jr., speculative son of Dennett and Mary (—) Abney, had 400 acres in St. George’s Parish of Spotsylvania County 30 June 1726 and another 381 acres in Spotsylvania 28 September 1728.

Twice the Council granted large tracts of land to Dennett Abney Jr. In 1726 they granted 20,000 acres to him, Richard Hickman, and Edwin Hickman. In 1729 the Council granted 12,000 acres at the mouth of the Mechunk Creek in Goochland (now Fluvanna) County to Dennett Abney Jr., Abraham Abney, Richard Hickman, Edwin Hickman, Thomas Graves, and John Key. Richard Hickman was clerk of the Council from York County and Edwin Hickman was the sheriff of Spotsylvania County.

The court records of Spotsylvania County reflect the name of Dennett Abney Jr. On 3 November 1724, the court ordered Dennett Abney Jr. to be the overseer of a new road by the house of John Waller but Waller himself replaced Abney two years later, 2 November 1726. On 6 June 1727 they ordered him and Abraham Abney to appraise two horses at issue in a lawsuit. During November 1727 the court ordered Dennett Abney Jr. and Thomas Hill as witnesses in a lawsuit.

Dennett petitioned the court to appraise the improvements on his 381-acre land patent of 1728 on 7 September 1731. We presume Dennett did this to keep his patent from lapsing for lack of seating. A legislative act of 1720 gave patentees the right to petition their county court to have two independent citizens value their property as "sufficient proof of cultivation and improvement." Later that year, on 3-4 December 1731, Abney conveyed his 381-acre patent via deeds of lease and release to Zachary Lewis who secured it with another patent 28 September 1732. On 3 August 1732, the court dismissed a suit Joseph Brock brought against Dennett Abney Jr.

On 27 July 1733, Dennett Abney Jr. and wife, Mary —, of Hanover County sold 400 acres in Spotsylvania County — likely his patent of 30 June 1726 — to Richard Phillips. They acknowledged the deeds 2 October 1733.

Dennett Abney and Abraham Abney were in Henrico County on the north side of the James River 20 June 1733 when they got 570 acres next to some land they already owned and adjacent to George Abney. Dennett and Abraham held their land about ten years and Thomas Oakley got the patent to it 30 August 1744. On 20 August 1748, Dennett Abney secured a patent to 290 acres on the north side of the Chickahominy Swamp in Hanover County.

Although junior in Spotsylvania County he was senior when he got to Lunenburg County to distinguish him from his cousin Dennett Abney who lived there. Dennett Abney Sr. had land in Lunenburg County in 1749 but no tithables. William Spraggins was his overseer. The Spraggins family later intermarried with the Abneys and possibly an earlier family connection existed. Lunenburg County charged Dennett Abney Sr. on three tithes in 1750. Dennett bought 98 acres on Catawba Creek from Thomas Pruett in 1755.

On 12 May 1759 Dennett got 400 acres on both sides of the south fork of Catawba Creek in Lunenburg (later Halifax) County and 800 acres in Lunenburg (later Halifax) County on the Staunton River 10 August 1759. Catawba Creek is in far north Halifax County and flows into the Staunton (now Roanoke) River.

Dennett wrote his will in Hanover County naming children Reuben Abney, Ruth Shearer, Sarah Abney, Millicent Perry, and Maacah Spraggins (will dated 3 Nov. 1756, recorded 7 July 1757). Mary Abney, his widow, referred to it 10 November 1763 when she sold the 800 acres in Halifax County to Nathaniel Spraggins and a copy was later submitted to court. Source: John W. Pritchett

Children of DANNETT ABNEY and MARY MEREDITH are:

i. MILLESENT⁶ ABNEY⁵², d. Unknown; m. THOMAS PERRY⁵²; d. Unknown.

22. ii. MAACAH ABNEY, b. Abt. 1730; d. 1794.

iii. SARAH ABNEY⁵², b. Abt. 1740⁵³; d. Unknown.

iv. RUTH ABNEY⁵⁴, b. 1745, Virginia⁵⁴; d. Unknown; m. GEORGE SHARRER⁵⁵; d. Unknown.

v. REUBEN ABNEY⁵⁶, b. Abt. 1749; d. Unknown.

Notes for REUBEN ABNEY:

306 James Norrell – Will

"…very sick & weak in body.." I order the land to be sold & after paying debts what is left to be in the possession of my dearly beloved wife Jean during her natural life, only such horses & cows which I have give to some of my children which she is sensible of. At wifes decease good & chattles to be equally divided between my sons James, Thomas, Samuel, Richard, & William and my daughters Sarah & Elizabeth.

Exr. My wife Jean & son Thomas Norrell

SD 5 April 1770 /s/ James Norrell

WD 5 April 1770

Wit: John Smith, Thos. Spragan, Reuben Abney

WP 18 April 1771. Presented by Thomas Norrell one of Exrs. Who refused the execution of sd will & same being proved by two of wit. Or o.r. On motion of John Smith Certificate was granted him.

Sec: Paul Carrington, Gent.

Halifax County, Virginia Will Book 0 1752 – 1773 p.50

349 John Popham – Will (original)

….

Wit: Thos. Spragin, Reubin Abney, Elijah Hunt, George Brown

WP 17 December 1772. Presented by the Exr. & proved by two of the wit.

Sec: John Logan

Halifax County, Virginia Will Book 0 1752 – 1773 p.58

"Reuben Abney appeared periodically in the records of Lunenburg County and Halifax County. On 18 March 1773, he sold to John Roberts 400 acres on Catawba Creek in Halifax County that had belonged to Dennett Abney — whom we presume was his father who had owned similarly described land. During May 1783 Reuben bought 794 acres next to Abraham Abney on the north side of the north fork of the Catawba Creek from Thomas Spraggins. Together Reuben Abney and Joshua Echols sold 65 acres on Falls Branch of the Catawba Creek to Joseph Echols 25 January 1783. Francis Moore Petty was a neighbor. Of the 65 acres, Abney held 50. On 16 March 1786, Reuben sold 56 acres on Falls Branch of Catawba Creek to Melchizedek Spraggins for £23.

Reuben Abney married — Petty in Lunenburg County 15 June (bond) 1786, and witnessed the 1792-will of Thomas Spraggins. On 22 December 1792 he sold 300 acres on the north side of Falls Branch of Catawba Creek to James Wimbush for £130. Reuben contributed one 4-year-old mare to the Revolution. Halifax County listed Reuben Abney head of a family of four with eleven slaves in 1782 yet, by 1785, he alone was in his household.

In appreciation for services received from his nephews and nieces, Reuben gave slaves to Melchizedek, Melchijah, Thomas, Elisha, Samuel Spraggins, and Maacah White, 17 April 1793.

Reuben was a single tithable in Halifax County in 1800 with two horses and five slaves." Source John W. Pritchett

10. PAUL⁵ ABNEY (DANNETT⁴, GEORGE³, PAUL², EDMUND¹)⁵⁷ was born 14 Dec 1699 in Albermarle, Virginia⁵⁸, and died Aft. 1786 in Virginia⁵⁸. He married (1) ANNE UNKNOWN⁵⁸. She died Unknown. He married (2) UNKNOWN⁵⁸. She died Unknown.

Notes for PAUL ABNEY:

Paul Abney, son of Dennett and Mary (—) Abney, was baptized in Abingdon Parish, 24 December 1699.

Paul purchased 100 acres on Mountain Falls Creek from Anthony Pouncey 2 March 1742/3. His tract was in Albemarle County when he sold it to John Graves 2 March 1750/1, although he continued to own neighboring land. Source: John W. Pritchett

Mentioned in father's will, gave consent for marriage of granddaughter Elizabeth, daughter of William Abney, with Tandy Holman in 1786. source John Hensell

Children of PAUL ABNEY and ANNE UNKNOWN are:

i. NATHANIEL⁶ ABNEY⁵⁸, b. Abt. 1725⁵⁸; d. Unknown.

ii. RHODA SUSAN ABNEY⁵⁸, b. Abt. 1725, Virginia⁵⁸; d. Unknown.

23. iii. JOHN ABNEY, b. 1730, Virginia; d. 1786, Amherst, Fairfax County, Virginia.

24. iv. PAUL ABNEY, b. Abt. 1760, Albermarle County, Virginia; d. 15 Jun 1815, Dickson County, Tennessee.

Children of PAUL ABNEY and UNKNOWN are:

25. v. WILLIAM⁶ ABNEY, d. Unknown.

vi. JOHN ABNEY⁵⁸, b. Virginia⁵⁸; d. Unknown.

11. ABRAHAM⁵ ABNEY (DANNETT⁴, GEORGE³, PAUL², EDMUND¹)⁵⁹ was born 27 Dec 1702 in Abington Parish, Gloucester, Virginia⁶⁰, and died 04 Jun 1783 in South Carolina⁶¹. He married CASSANDRA MEREDITH⁶² Bef. 1720 in Halifax County, Virginia⁶³, daughter of SAMUEL MEREDITH and ANN EPPES. She died Unknown.

Notes for ABRAHAM ABNEY:

Physician and in 1742 presented a petition to the Virginia House of Burgesses, claiming discovery of a cure for cancer by some simples of the natural growth of the colony, and requested encouragement and reward after he had made the demonstration; went with his family to South Carolina circa 1769 and settled in District 96, after which he disposed of his Virginia holdings.

June 30, 1733 Granted 570a jointly with his brother Dannett Abney, Jr.

Patented 230a of land in Hanover County., Virginia Aug.20, 1748.

Patented 343a on Calloe Creek, Halifax County., Virginia May 23, 1763.

Granted 172a land in Hanover County., Virginia to Isaac Budney Oct. 4, 1745 and joined by his wife Cassandra in this grant.

Granted land in Halifax County., Virginia out of which he granted 250a to Thomas Spraggins on Feb. 18, 1757 and 400a to Thomas Childree, Dec. 2, 1756.

April 3, 1764 for 100 pounds he gave 400a in Halifax County., Virginia on Cullaboe Creek to Nathaniel Abney, which he patented in the Parish of Antrim on May 23, 1763.

July 2, 1778, Abraham Abney of Camden Dist. S. C. granted to Benjamin Vaughan 243a at Calbar, Halifax County., Virginia.

With Nathaniel Abney of Long Cane Mills, Dist. 96, South Carolina granted 400a in Antrim Parish, Halifax County., Virginia to Charles Gallaway, Feb. 18, 1775.

Virginia Family Histories #3 1600’s – 1800s, Genealogies of Virginia Families, Volume II, Graves Family of Spotsylvania County., page 43

"Thomas Graves was an assiduous purchaser and patentee of land and we find him in Orange, Goochland, Hanover, Louisa an Albemarle records. In (Exec. Journals of the Council, vol. 4, p. 202) he with Richard and Edwin Hickman, Dennet Abney Jr., Abraham Abney and John Key patented 12,000 acres in Goochland beginning at the mouth of Mechumps Creek on the north side of the north branch of James River."

Gills, William.

20 September 1745.

Available on microfilm. Virginia State Land Office. Patents 1-42, reels 1-41.

Location: Hanover County. Description: 152 acres on the upper side of Beverdam Swamp adjoining Abraham Abney, and others. Source: Land Office Patents No. 22, 1743-1745 (v.1 & 2 p.1-631), p. 477 (Reel 20). Part of the index to the recorded copies of patents for land issued by the Secretary of the Colony serving as the colonial Land Office. The collection is housed in the Archives at the Library of Virginia.

1749

Lunenburg County

Tithables list taken by William Caldwell in. Contributed by W. S. Morton

Abney, Dennet 1

Abney, Dennet, Sr. 0

Abney, George 1

Abney, Abraham 1

Abney, Abraham.

10 April 1751.

Available on microfilm. Virginia State Land Office. Patents 1-42, reels 1-41.

Location: Lunenburg County. Description: 250 acres on the south side of Stanton river. Source: Land Office Patents No. 29, 1749-1751 (v.1 & 2 p.1-532), p. 427 (Reel 27).

Part of the index to the recorded copies of patents for land issued by the Secretary of the Colony serving as the colonial Land Office. The collection is housed in the Archives at the Library of Virginia.

Source: Vestry Book of Antrim Parish, Halifax County, Virginia 1752 – 1817 p. 17

1753

p. 62 14 October 1753 William Mays of Amelia County., to Abraham Abney of Lunenburg County. for pound 80, 196 acres on the south side of Stanton River, bounded by John Coles entry, William Roys survey, now patented for James Hunt and Mattox Mayes survey, now patented for Abraham Abney, which bounds will more fully appear by a patent granted to William Mays, decd. All houses, orchards, gardens, fences, woods, etc.

Signed: Wiliam (W) Mayes Anna, his wife, relinquished her right of dower

Wit: Nathaniel Abney, William Abney, Annahy Mayes

Recorded 16 October 1753

Source: Halifax County, Virginia Deed Book 1 1752-1759 p.15

1753

Deed of land from William Mays to Abraham Abney acknowledged, Ann Mays, wife of William, relinquished her right of dower.

Plea Book 1, Halifax County, Virginia 1752 – 1755 p.60

Plea Book 1, Halifax County, Virginia 1752 – 1755 p. 88

March 1756

Plea Book 1, Halifax County, Virginia 1752 – 1755 p. 113

Plea Book 2, Halifax County, Virginia 1755 – 1758 p. 75

1 May 1756

Thomas Spraggin, 454acs. Lunenburgh County. on the S side of Catawbo Cr. Adj. Max, Thomas, Hodges, George Abney & Abraham Abney; 16 Aug 1756, p. 70 45 Shill.

Virginia Land Patents Book #33, VGSQ Vol. XXXII, #2, 1 May 1994

Sanders, John.

16 August 1756.

Available on microfilm. Virginia State Land Office. Patents 1-42, reels 1-41.

Location: Lunenburg County. Description: 400 acres on the South side of Childry’s Creek adjoining Dennet and Abraham Abney’s lines. Source: Land Office Patents No. 34, 1756-1765, p. 95 (Reel 33-34). Part of the index to the recorded copies of patents for land issued by the Secretary of the Colony serving as the colonial Land Office. The collection is housed in the Archives at the Library of Virginia.

p. 370 2 December 1757

Abraham Abney of Halifax County, to Thomas Childre, Gent. of same, for pound 40, 400 acres on the head of the middle fork of Catawbo Cr, and bounded by Thomas Prewit’s line, Thomas Spragins line, Elexander Nelson’s line, Thomas Watkin’ line and by sd Abney’s line. All houses, gardens, orchards, fences, woods, etc.

Wit: Nathaniel Abney, William Abney, Thomas Skiner

Memorandum of Livery & Seizure and Receipt 2 December 1757

Recorded (date not given)

Halifax County, Virginia

Deed Book 1, 1752 – 1759 p. 33

Spragin, William.

12 May 1759.

Available on microfilm. Virginia State Land Office. Patents 1-42, reels 1-41.

Easley, Hannah.

20 August 1760.

Available on microfilm. Virginia State Land Office. Patents 1-42, reels 1-41. Location: Lunenburg County. Description: 794 acres on the north fork of Catawbo adjoining Abraham Abney &c. Source: Land Office Patents No. 34, 1756-1765, p. 662 (Reel 33-34).

Abney, Abraham.

20 August 1760.

Available on microfilm. Virginia State Land Office. Patents 1-42, reels 1-41. Location: Lunenburg County. Description: 110 acres on the north side of Stanton river adjoining Mackcans, and Cabbiniss’s lines. Source: Land Office Patents No. 33, 1756-1761 (v.1, 2, 3 & 4 p.1-1095), p. 870 (Reel 31-32). Part of the index to the recorded copies of patents for land issued by the Secretary of the Colony serving as the colonial Land Office. The collection is housed in the Archives at the Library of Virginia.

Abney, George.

1 July 1761

Available on microfilm. Virginia State Land Office. Patents 1-42, reels 1-41.

22 December 1761, p. 287

Nathaniel Abney and William Abney of Halifax County. to Mattox Mays of Lunenburg County, for pounds 65, 370 acres on both sides of Mayses Cr. Beg. At a red oak thence north…Ellis’s line… All houses, orchards, …

Signed: Nathaniel Abney, Wm. Abney

Wit: William Hill, Abra. Abney, Joseph Mayes, Joseph East, John Mayes

Recorded 20 May 1762

Deed Book 1, 1752 – 1759 p. 60

February Court 1762

Page 410

Abraham Abney, plt, vs John Bolling, Deft, In Case. This day came the parties by their attys, & thereupon came also a jury, to wit, Thomas Spencer, William Martin, Daniel Wall, James Daniel, John Scurlock, Ambrose Haley, James Faris, Jacob Chaney, Robert Warnock, John Baker, Benjamin Lawless, and John Blevins, who say the Deft did assume upon himself as charged, and assess Plt’s damages to 16 pounds 8 shillings and 4 pence half penny. Judgment for Plt for the damages afd.

Halifax County Plea Book 1762

February Court

Page 411

Abraham Abney is ordered to pay William Abney, a witness for him in his suit against Bolling, for 4 days’ attendance.

Halifax County Plea Book 1762

Mayes, Joseph.

25 September 1762.

Available on microfilm. Virginia State Land Office. Patents 1-42, reels 1-41.

See also the following surname(s): Mays.

Location: Halifax County. Description: 400 acres on the branches of the North fork of Catawbo Creek adjoining Abraham Abneys land. Source: Land Office Patents No. 35, 1762-1764 (v.1 & 2 p.1-556), p. 48 (Reel 35). Part of the index to the recorded copies of patents for land issued by the Secretary of the Colony serving as the colonial Land Office. The collection is housed in the Archives at the Library of Virginia.

Hunt, Joseph.

25 September 1762.

Available on microfilm. Virginia State Land Office. Patents 1-42, reels 1-41.

Location: Lunenburg County. Description: 365 acres on the south side of the north fork of Catawbo Creek adjoining James Hunt, Abraham Abney &c. Source: Land Office Patents No. 35, 1762-1764 (v.1 & 2 p.1-556), p. 20 (Reel 35). Part of the index to the recorded copies of patents for land issued by the Secretary of the Colony serving as the colonial Land Office. The collection is housed in the Archives at the Library of Virginia.

Abraham Abney

May 23, 1763

Available on microfilm. Virginia State Land Office. Patents 1-42, reels 1-41.

Note: Location: Halifax County. Description: 400 acres on the upper side of Cuttawbo Creek beginning at the mouth of Fall Branch. Source: Land Office Patents No. 35, 1762-1764 (v.1 & 2 p.1-556), p. 179 (Reel 35). Part of the index to the recorded copies of patents for land issued by the Secretary of the Colony serving as the colonial Land Office. The collection is housed in the Archives at the Library of Virginia.

Abraham Abney

23 May 1763.

Available on microfilm. Virginia State Land Office. Patents 1-42, reels 1-41.

Location: Halifax County. Description: 343 acres on the branches of Cuttawbo Creek.

Source: Land Office Patents No. 35, 1762-1764 (v.1 & 2 p.1-556), p. 180 (Reel 35).

About March 1768

Nathaniel Spragin and Epaphroditus White Returned here a report of Processioning by them performed since the second day of November last past in words and figures following. Halifax County Processioned John Butlers land & he Present & Elijah Hunt & he present & William Shields & he Present & Thomas Spragen & he Present & Thomas Richardson & he Present & John Richardon & he present & James Norrell & he present ship Richardson & he Present & Peter Royster & he Present & Abraham Abney & Saml. Abney. Present…

Source: Vestry Book of Antrim Parish, Halifax County, Virginia 1752 – 1817

p. 97

Abraham Abney

20 July 1768.

Available on microfilm. Virginia State Land Office. Patents 1-42, reels 1-41.

Location: Halifax County.

Description: 295 acres on the branches of Catawbo Creek adjoining Thomas Prewit, Abraham Abney, &c. Source: Land Office Patents No. 37, 1767-1768, p. 352 (Reel 37).

Mayes, Mattox.

20 July 1768.

Available on microfilm. Virginia State Land Office. Patents 1-42, reels 1-41.

Location: Halifax County. Description: 295 acres on the branches of Catawbo Creek adjoining Thomas Prewit, Abraham Abney, &c. Source: Land Office Patents No. 37, 1767-1768, p. 352 (Reel 37). Part of the index to the recorded copies of patents for land issued by the Secretary of the Colony serving as the colonial Land Office. The collection is housed in the Archives at the Library of Virginia.

He furnished supplies to and assisted the Continental Army in the Revolutionary War:

State of South Carolina - 1781. To Bay horse taken into the service of Gen. Picken's Brigade, proven by oath of Samuel Mays and William Hill to be worth 60 pounds which they herein under their names and hands upon oaths have appraised this fourth day of June 1783 before me. /s/ D. Hopkins, J.P.

On October 4, 1783, Abraham Abney swore before D. Hopkins J.P. that a party of state troopers took from Nathaniel Abney one sorrel horse and one gray mare, the property of Nathaniel Abney, the horse worth 125 pounds and the mare worth 35 pounds.

Dr. Abraham Abney made claim for one bay horse lost in service in 1781, worth 60 pounds currency of sterling 22 121 1/2. Source: John Hensell

The ECHOLS (ECKHOLS, &C.) family is tied to the ABNEY's in at least 10 documents. (John ECHOLS m. Mary CAVE were the great grandparents of Lucy COLLINS m. Dr. Nathaniel ABNEY. These families

had been close for a while. Lucy's aunt Sarah MARCHBANKS m. Joseph HAWKINS. Dr. Abraham ABNEY sued the HAWKINS family (and won) in Spots. County., Virginia for tobacco owed him by John HAWKINS. There is

probably a kinship between these HAWKINS', but this is not yet proved.

Here's another (GREAT) connection. Edward DEAN's brother, Charles DEAN married Ursula MARCHBANKS. Ursula MARCHBANKS was sister to Lucy MARCHBANKS who m. Joseph COLLINS (parents of Lucy). Therefore, Lucy COLLINS was Charles DEAN's niece! Dr. Abraham ABNEY and Cassandra & had the

following issue:

1. Rebecca ABNEY m. Edward DEAN (he was liv. on Dr. Abraham's land in 1745. Bro. Chas. DEAN m.

Ursula MARCHBANKS).

2. Dr. Nathaniel ABNEY m. Lucy COLLINS (niece of Edward DEAN's brother, Charles DEAN).

3. Charles ABNEY (?) of Cheraw's District (not proved. only a very weak theory).

4. Cassandra ABNEY m. Dannett ABNEY (son of George ABNEY & Unity) - the reason Dannett

ABNEY was Edward DEAN’s brother-in-law.

5. "Gentleman" John ABNEY (?) m. Isabella (not proved - but John appears to have been Paul’s bro.)

6. Paul ABNEY m. Eleanor "Ellen" HAMILTON (Thomas Hamilton ABNEY b.ca.1792, claimed that

this Paul ABNEY was "own" [i.e. first] cousin to his grandfather, Samuel ABNEY. Since Dr. Abraham

ABNEY's family went to SC; and George ABNEY’s sons and one daughter went to South Carolina, I

believe Dr. Abraham is the uncle (of Samuel) who sired Paul (Samuel's first cousin. This also explains

how Paul Collins ABNEY got his first name). Earlier researchers believed Dr. Nathaniel ABNEY had a

brother named Paul. I believe they were "accidentally" correct, but they had the wrong Paul!

They had Pvt. Paul ABNEY/ABNER. The correct Paul was actually Paul ABNEY who m. Eleanor

HAMILTON!

Dr. Abraham ABNEY may have sired another son, William (not to be confused with Capt. William, son

of George; nor with Pvt. William of Albemarle & Amherst Cos., Virginia & Kentucky, son of John)

Since Edward DEAN called Dannett ABNEY (son of George) his "brother-in-law", many automatically

assumed that Rebecca ABNEY was Dannett ABNEY's sister...without searching for evidence to

prove out their guess (it was an easy assumption).

However, the author is certain that Rebecca and Cassandra were sisters (and the name Cassandra goes

a long way in supporting the author’s belief that she was a daughter of Dr. Abraham ABNEY & his wife,

Cassandra). Hence, Edward DEAN was Dannett ABNEY's bro.-in-law through their wives.

Source: R.R. Abney

***************

Abraham Abney, son of Dennett and Mary (—) Abney, was baptized in Abingdon Parish, 27 December 1702.

With Thomas Claiborne, Abraham petitioned for a grant of 500 acres on Gillie Creek in Henrico County 11 December 1728. Abraham was in Henrico County on the north side of the James 20 June 1733 when he and Dennett Abney got 570 acres next to some land they already owned and adjacent to cousin George Abney.

Both Abraham and Dennett Abney Jr. were county constables from the Ta River to the Northanna River. They appointed Abraham on 4 May 1731 though Dennett Jr. succeeded him a month later. On 2 November 1731 they reappointed Abraham and ordered Dennett Jr. to summon Abraham so they could swear him in. On 3 August 1732, they appointed Thomas Pulliam to succeed Abraham Abney who had left the county.

Abraham Abney sued William Cuddin in court 3 August 1732. Spotsylvania County continued the action 7 September 1732 and brought a judgement against Cuddin in favor of Abney 7 November 1732. A poor man, Cuddin could not satisfy the judgement and on 7 August 1733, Cuddin swore to a schedule of his estate and they released him. An Act of the General Assembly in 1736 later memorialized that "it shall and may be lawful for any person imprisoned for debt or damages, to discharge him or herself, by delivering a schedule of his or her whole estate, and taking the oath…"

Abraham had wife Cassandra —. At the March Court 1741, Henrico admitted to record a deed conveying land from Abraham and George Abney to Robert Lee. Unity and Cassandra relinquished their dower right. Abraham and Cassandra of Hanover County alone sold 172 acres on Gillie Creek to Isaac Breeding 4 October 1745. His brother-in-law Edward Dean was living on Abraham’s land that was part of a greater tract that had belonged to Abney.

On 16 October 1753 William Mayes acknowledged a deed to Abraham Abney for 196 acres on the south side of the Staunton River. This was likely the land on both sides of Mayes Creek upon which Halifax County granted Abraham license to build a grist mill in July 1755. During May 1755 the Assembly approved several new ferries including one to run from land of James Hunt across the Staunton River to land of Abraham Abney. This was probably the 250 acres he held 10 April 1751. Abraham Abney was embroiled in a lawsuit in Halifax County that required him to pay witness Elijah Hunt for nine days, seven times coming and going twenty-five miles, and two ferry tolls 20 November 1755.

Halifax County taxed Abney on 560 acres in 1755.

Absent a will, we cannot positively identify all the children of Abraham and Cassandra Abney. We presume he was the father of the Abneys who together were selling land that he had owned on Catawba Creek.

Source: John W. Pritchett

On 20 August 1760 Abraham got 110 acres on the north side of the Staunton River. Halifax County granted a ferry license to James Hunt 20 March 1755. On 23 May 1763, Abraham got two patents to land in Halifax County: 343 acres on the branches of Catawba Creek and 400 acres on the upper side of Catawba Creek beginning at the mouth of Falls Branch.

Abraham Abney was living in Halifax County 2 August 1757 when he sold 222 acres on the Staunton River that had belonged to William Westbrook to Thomas Spraggins. He sold 400 acres on Catawba Creek in Halifax County to Thomas Childers 2 December 1757. Thomas Childers was the son of John Childers and Frances Mayes, the sister of Mattox Mayes.

Abraham was still in Halifax 5 June 1758 when he sold 60 acres on the north side of the Staunton River to Joseph Holmes and 112 acres at the same place to William Mayes. Cassandra relinquished her dower rights. Nathaniel Abney Sr. witnessed both deeds.

During