Son of William E. Bledsoe and wife Elizabeth of Spotsylvania Co., Virginia. William was born about 1676 in Northumberland Co., Virginia and died 19 Apr 1770 in Culpeper Co., Virginia.
George married about 1735 to Lucy __.
Sources for this biography include:
"The Bledsoe Family in America" by Banks McLaurin, Jr., 1993
ORANGE COUNTY ROAD ORDERS 1750-1800 by Ann Brush Miller
Research Historian Orange County Historical Society
28 February 1750 O.S. Orange Co., VA Road Orders, Page 289
"On the Petition of Benjamin Cave Gent it is Ordered that a Road be cleared from the Main Road by Hardins Quarter to the Pine Stake Church and that the Male Labouring Tithables at the said Hardins Quarter, at Fleets Quarter at Neels Quarter, Edward Hay1ys, George Bledsoe, James
Mitchel, John Hayley, Thomas Gahagon Benjamin Caves Philip Singleton & Daniel Singletons do clear the Same & that Thomas Gahagon be Overseer of the said Road"
October 28, 1756, Orange Co., VA Road Orders, Page 283
"Geo. Bledsoe is Appointed Overseer of the Road in the room of Benja Cave Gent & that he with the Gang that was under the said Cave Clear & keep the same in Repair."
22 September 1757, Orange Co., VA Road Orders, Page 350
"Richard Thomas Gent. Stephen Smith & Stephen I. K. Smith who were appointed & Sworn to veiw the Way from Fredericksburg road by Hardins old field to join the road from Garnets folly to Spotsylvania Line having made their report that the same is a Levell way, it is therefore
ordered that the same be Cleared as laid off by the Veiwers to Spotsylvania to meet the road from the sd. Line to Garnets folly & the following Persons are appointed to assist in the opening & Clearing the said till the same be opened, Vizt. Daniel Singleton, Philip Singleton John Bledsoe, Geo Bledsoe, James Mitchell, Joseph Rennolds Samuel Rice, John Wright, Robert Lancaster the Male
Labouring Tiths. at Fleets Quarter at John Conners at Braxtons Quarter at Thos. Haleys & also the Gang that works on the Road from the Poplar Spring down to the Tomb Stone & with those that work on the roads above Capt
. Caves to the pine Stake Church & that Philip Singleton be overseer of the same."
23 February 1758, Orange Co., VA Road Orders, Page 364
"On the Petition of Joseph Rennolds for a Bridle way from his house the Most Convenientest way into the Road to Fredericksburg Ordered that John Bledsoe George Bledsoe Samuel Rice & John Wright or any three of them being first Sworn before some Justice for this County do Veiw the said Intended way & make report to the Court of the Conveniences & inconveniences Attending the same."
25 October 1759, Orange Co., VA Road Orders, "Page 503
"On the Petition of John Conner Overseer for Miss Mary Willis, that the Way used to Roll Tobacco from the said Willisís plantation on the Mine Run into the Road to Fredericksburgh is Stopped & that he has no way open to Roll or Cart therefore it is Ordered That George Bledsoe
John Bledsoe John Wright and Philip Singleton or any three of them being first Sworn as the Law directs, Veiw the best & Most Convenient way for a Road to be cleared from the said Plantation for Rolling & that they make report to the Court of the Conveniences & inconveniences attending the same."
This land deed is definitely our George:
1760 - Orange Co., VA Deed Book 13, p. 78
"William Bledsoe and wife Elizabeth of Spotsylvania Co., VA deed to George Bledsoe of Orange Co., VA...for natural love and parental affection, 150 acres of land adjoining land of William Bledsoe, Jr. and Benjamin Cave."
May 1763, Orange Co., VA Road Orders, Page 13
"Zachary Allan is Appointed Overseer of the Road from the Tomb Stone down to the fork of the Road by the old Trap in the room of George Bledsoe & that he with the Gang that was under the sd. Bledsoe & also Jos. Wharton & his Son clear & keep the said road in repair."
22 Jun 1767 - Orange Co., VA Deed Book 14, p. 188
"George Bledsoe witnessed a deed when William Cave bought land."
25 Jun 1767 - Orange Co., VA Deed Book 14, p. 190
"George Bledsoe joined by his wife Lucy sold land to William Beckham."
8 Jul 1767 - Orange Co., VA Deed Book 14, p.
"George witnessed a deed when William Cave sold land."
1769 - George is named in his father William Cave's will.
26 Sep 1770 - Orange Co., VA Deed Book 15, p. 250
"George and Lucy sold land to William Cave in Orange Co., VA."
1774, Orange Co., VA - George's brother Aaron founded a Baptist Church:
"North Pamunkey Baptist Church was founded in 1774 by Aaron Bledsoe & Elijah Craig. The early church, which was a one room log structure, was known by several names including: North Fork of the Pamunkey, Bledsoe's Meeting House and North Pamunkey Meeting House. Aaron Bledsoe was pastor for 32 years. During his leadership the church grew from a membership of 20 to 350 in 1806." - See more at: http://www.visitorangevirginia.com/index.php/home/profile/north_pamunkey_baptist_church#sthash.4a64cSti.dpuf
1777 - Son Howard dies as a Revolutionary War soldier.
"Patriots of the Up Country"
p. 115 -
3 Nov 1777, Orange Co., VA - George signed a petition regarding taxation.
p. 114 -
17 Nov 1777, Orange Co., VA - George signed a petition regarding the difficulties of attending militia musters.
p. 121 -
24 May 1779, Orange Co., VA - George signed a petition on dividing the county in half due to its large size.
1782 - Orange Co., VA tax list
George Bledsoe 2 white tithables and 50 acres
John Bledsoe 4 white tithables
Moses Bledsoe 4 white tithables
22 May 1783, Orange Co., VA Road Orders, Page 233
"George Bledsoe Appointed Overseer of the Road from Catlett Conwas Gate to the fork of the Roads below the Pine Stake Church and Ordered that Catlett Conways hands & those Below that Worked under Finlasaon Sleat do Clear & keep the Same in good repair."
26 May 1785, Orange Co., VA Road Orders, Page 316
"Thos. Bohon Appointed Overseer of the Road in the Room of Geo. Bledsoe from Pine Stake Church to Capt Conways Gate."
1785 - Orange Co., VA tax list
George Bledsoe 3 white tithables
John Bledsoe 2 white tithables
Moses Bledsoe 5 white tithables
George Bledsoe 5 white tithables
1789 - Orange Co., VA tax list
George Bledsoe 50 acres
1790 - Orange Co., VA tax list
George Bledsoe 50 acres
27 September 1790, Orange Co., VA Road Orders, Page 49
"George Bledsoe is appointed Overseer of the road from the mine run to the Tombstone and Ordered that the following hands of William Suillivan George Pain, Thomas Faulkner, Peter Mason, Mary Perry, Daniel Singleton, Richard Webb, John Procter, William Grady & Ann Grastyís Do clear and Keep the same in Good Repair Accordg. to Law."
1791 - Orange Co., VA tax list
George Bledsoe Sr. 3 tithables 50 acres
George Bledsoe Jr. 1 tithable
Moses Bledsoe 1 tithable
24 September 1792, Orange Co., VA Road Orders, Page 145
"Ordered that the Sher. pay George Bledsoe 16/ out of the Deposit in his hands for Seting up four Sign Boards."
1792 - Orange Co., VA tax list
George Bledsoe 50 acres
23 April 1793, Orange Co., VA Road Orders, Page 173
"Appointed A List of the Overseers of Roads and Precints
Octr .26th George Bledsoe from the Mine run up to the Tomb Stone."
1793 - Orange Co., VA tax list
George Bledsoe 50 acres
1794 - Orange Co., VA tax list
George Bledsoe 50 acres
27 Oct 1794, Orange Co., VA Court Records - George Jr. was ordered to appraise the estate of Daniel Singleton, along with others.
27 Oct 1794, Orange Co., VA Court Records - George Jr. was ordered to appraise the estate of Pierce Perry, along with others.
4 Apr 1795, Orange Co., VA - George witnessed a land deed.
29 September 1795, Orange Co., VA Road Orders, Page 332
"Gutridge Grasty Appointed Overseer of the Road from the Tomb Stone to the Mine run With the hands that worked Under George Bledsoe."
23 Dec 1796, Spotsylvania Co., VA - George and his son Moses witnessed a land deed of George's son John.
1798 - Orange Co., VA tax list
George Bledsoe 50 acres
Moses Bledsoe 225 acres and 11 acres
8 Jan 1799, Spotsylvania Co., VA - George and his son Moses witnessed a second land deed of George's son John:
"On 8 Jan 1799, Caleb Abell witnessed a deed by William Gholson and Mary, his wife, of Spotsylvania County for 133 acres in Spotsylvania County, Virginia to John Bledsoe of Orange County, Virginia for £120 currency. Witnesses: Moses Bledsoe, Joseph Johnson, Mary Johnson, Caleb Abell and George Bledsoe. Filed: 2 Jul 1799 Book P."
12 Sep 1800, Orange Co., VA - George's brother John names him in his will. Lucy is also still living, as are three sons, Moses, John, and George Jr.:
Orange Co., VA Will Book 4, p. 16
Will of John Bledsoe dated 12 Sep 1800; probated 27 Jul 1801 -
To nephew George Bledsoe, son of my brother George, 20 pounds.
To nephew John Bledsoe, son of my brother George, 20 pounds.
To nephew Moses Bledsoe, son of my brother George, 20 pounds.
To my brother George and his wife, Lucy, $20 annually for life.
To my brother William's sons, John, Joseph, James, Benjamin, William, Abraham, Isaac and Jacob Bledsoe, 20 pounds to each.
1801-1802 - George dies.
21 Dec 1803, Orange Co., VA - George's son George Jr. sells land that he received from his uncle John Bledsoe's estate.
1810 Orange Co., VA tax list
Moses Bledsoe (son of George and Lucy) 1 tithable
Moses Bledsoe Jr. 1 tithable
John Bledsoe 1 tithable
Howard Bledsoe 1 tithable
George Bledsoe Jr. 1 tithable
George Bledsoe Sr. (son of George and Lucy) 1 tithable
*****
George Bledsoe and Lucy's children:
1. Mary Bledsoe, b.c. 1740, Spotsylvania or Orange Co., VA; m.c. 1758, Orange Co., VA to William Wright [b. 1730, King William Co., VA; d. 1730, Jan 1833, Orange Co., VA; son of John Wright and Frances __]; she d. 1786, Orange Co., VA; buried on Wright farm.
*****
2. John Bledsoe, b.c. 1742, Spotsylvania or Orange Co., VA; he may have gone to KY after 1799;
1782 - Orange Co., VA tax list
John Bledsoe 4 white tithables
1785 - Orange Co., VA tax list
John Bledsoe 2 white tithables
He returned to, or at least bought land in, Spotsylvania County:
23 Dec 1796, Spotsylvania Co., VA - George Sr. and his son Moses witnessed a land deed of George's son John.
8 Jan 1799, Spotsylvania Co., VA - George Sr. and his son Moses witnessed a second land deed of George's son John.
John Bledsoe's children:
The 1782 tax list indicates that he probably had at least three sons.
*****
3. Moses Bledsoe, b.c. 1745, Spotsylvania or Orange Co., VA; m. 10 Dec 1777, St. Thomas Parish, Orange Co., VA to Anne Perry [b. 1750-1760, VA; d. after 1830, Orange Co., VA; buried probably Rhoadsville Baptist cemetery; daughter of William Pierce Perry and Mary Level]; he d. 26 Aug 1811, Orange Co., VA; buried probably on his farm.
1782 - Orange Co., VA tax list
Moses Bledsoe 4 white tithables
1785 - Orange Co., VA tax list
Moses Bledsoe 5 white tithables
1791 - Orange Co., VA tax list
Moses Bledsoe 1 tithable
26 September 1796, Orange Co., VA Road Orders, Page 408
"Moses Bledsoe appointed overseer of the road from the Old Office to The Old Trap & Ordd that he keep the same in Good repair accordg to Law."
23 Dec 1796, Spotsylvania Co., VA - George and his son Moses witnessed a land deed of George's son John.
26 June 1797, Orange Co., VA Road Orders, Page 28
"Moses Bledsoe Appointed Overseer of the Road from the Old Office run to the Old Trap in the Room of John Davis."
1798 - Orange Co., VA tax list
George Bledsoe 50 acres
Moses Bledsoe 225 acres and 11 acres
8 Jan 1799, Spotsylvania Co., VA - George and his son Moses witnessed a second land deed of George's son John.
1810 Orange Co., VA Tax List – taxed 17 Mar
[Each had only one white male age 16 or over]
Moses Bledsoe 1-0-4
Moses Bledsoe, Jr. 1-0-0
1820 census, Orange, Virginia, Page 69
Ann Bledsoe 0-2-0-0-1-0 0-0-1-0-1
One female over 45; b. by 1775 - Ann
One female 25-44; b. 1776-1795 -
Two males 10-15; b. 1805-1810 -
1830 census, Orange, Virginia, Page 297
Ann Bledsoe 0-0-0-0-0-0-1 0-0-0-0-0-0-1-0-0-1
One female 70-80; b. 1750-1760 - Ann
One male 40-50; 1780-1790 -
One female 40-50; 1780-1790 -
The 1785 tax list indicates that Moses probably had at least four sons.
Moses Bledsoe's children:
1) Elizabeth Bledsoe , b. 1780, Orange Co., VA; m. Joseph Johnson [b. 1780; d. 1868]; she d. 1874;
2) Benjamin Bledsoe, b. 1770-1780, Orange Co., VA; m. 23 Oct 1801, Madison Co., VA to Rosanna Yager [b. 1780-1790; d. 1830-1840, Orange Co., VA; daughter of Godfrey Yager and Mary Wayland]; he d. 1885, Orange Co., VA; buried
Godfrey Yager's estate in Madison Co., VA:
1801 Benjamin Bledsoe and Rosanna his wife were given furniture, household items and livestock.
In 1809 they were also given slaves Hannah and child. Total value £138.9.0.
1820 census, Orange, Virginia, Page 72
Benjamin Bledsoe 0-1-0-0-1-0 1-2-1-1-0
One male 26-44; b. 1776-1795 - Benjamin
One female 26-44; b. 1776-1795 - Rosanna
One female 16-25; b. 1795-1804 -
One male 10-15; b. 1805-1810 -
Two females 10-15; b. 1805-1810 -
One female under 10; b. 1810-1820 -
1822 -
Madison Co., Virginia, Will Book 4, page 193 The land of Godfrey Yager was surveyed on 4 June 1822 by John Price. The survey shows his land contains 199 acres, 1 rood and 30 poles. "In obedience to a decree of the County Court of Madison made on the 22nd day of March 1821, in the case of Bledsoe & C vs. Yager & C and hereto annexed & in obedience to the decree of said Court this day made in said suit thereto annexed the undersigned beg leave to report that according to the annexed plat & survey they have allotted to Mary Yager the widow of Godfrey Yager dec'ed one hundred and five acres two roods and five poles as dower of the lands of her late husband Godfrey Yager deceased
28 December 1822, Madison Co., VA Anna Green, Susanna Smith, Howard Bledsoe and wife Julia (Ann), Salathiel W. Yager and wife Ann and Mary Yager of Madison County, Virginia, John Collins and wife Elizabeth, Benjamin Bledsoe and wife Rosa of Orange County, Virginia, Simeon Yager and wife Betsy of Shendandoah County, Virginia, Lewis Cook and wife Polly and Ephraim Yager of Kentucky, heirs and distributes of Godfrey Yager sold 88 ½ acres to Joseph Carpenter for $1770. 23
1830 census, Orange, Virginia, Page 297
Benjamin Bledsoe 0-0-1-0-1-0-0-1 0-0-1-0-2-0-1
One male 50-60; b. 1770-1780 - Benjamin
One female 40-50; b. 1780-1790 - Rosanna
One male 20-30; b. 1800-1810 -
Two females 20-30; b. 1800-1810 -
One male 10-15; b. 1815-1820 -
One female 10-15; b. 1815-1820 -
1840 census, Orange, Virginia, Page 4
Benj Bledsoe 0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-1 0-0-0-1-1-0-1
One male 60-70; b. 1770-1780 - Benjamin
One female 40-50; b. 1790-1800 - Rosanna
1850 census, Orange county, part of, Orange, Virginia
Rosa Bledsoe F 60 Virginia
Mary A Bledsoe F 35 Virginia
Rosana Smith F 25 Virginia
Benjamin Bledsoe's children (probably a couple others):
i. Susan Bledsoe, b. 1802
ii. William Lewis Bledsoe, b. 2 Jan 1807; m. Rachel Frances Perry; he d. 1859, Cabell Co., VA;
iii. Nancy Bledsoe, b. 1810; d. 1902
iv. Mary Anne Bledsoe, b. 1814; d. 1908
v. Jane Bledsoe, b. 1817; d. 1908
vi. Elizabeth Bledsoe, b. 1805; d. 1899
vii. John A Bledsoe, b. 1816;
3) Howard Bledsoe, b. 1789, Orange Co., VA; m. 23 Apr 1810, Madison Co., VA to Julia Yager [b. 17 Jun 1785, Culpeper Co., VA; d. 28 Jun 1878, Madison Co., VA; daughter of Godfrey Yager and Mary Wayland]; he d. 11 Jan 1851, Orange Co., VA;
From Godfrey Yager's estate in Madison Co., VA:
1810 Howard Bledsoe and Julia were given furniture, household goods, a saddle and bridle and a slave girl Harriett, total value £63.13.0.
1819, Madison Co., VA
December 1819 a sale was held of Godfrey Yager's estate, total sales were $933.24¾. Buyers included Mary Yager (widow), Aaron A. Yager, Salathiel W. Yager, Michael Meyerhoeffer (minister of Hebron Lutheran Church), Howard Bledsoe, and others
28 December 1822, Madison Co., VA Anna Green, Susanna Smith, Howard Bledsoe and wife Julia (Ann), Salathiel W. Yager and wife Ann and Mary Yager of Madison County, Virginia, John Collins and wife Elizabeth, Benjamin Bledsoe and wife Rosa of Orange County, Virginia, Simeon Yager and wife Betsy of Shendandoah County, Virginia, Lewis Cook and wife Polly and Ephraim Yager of Kentucky, heirs and distributes of Godfrey Yager sold 88 ½ acres to Joseph Carpenter for $1770. 23
4) Hannah Bledsoe, b. 1789, Orange Co., VA; m. Benjamin Herndon [d. 1880, VA]; she d. 1870, VA; buried
5) John Bledsoe, b. 1790, Orange Co., VA; m. 1st Margaret Perry [1792-1860]; m. 2nd to Nancy Goodman [1796-1860]; he d. 25 Jan 1869, Orange Co., VA;
1820 census, Orange, Virginia, Page 71
John Bledsoe 1-0-0-0-1-0 1-0-1-0-0
One male 26-44; b. 1776-1795 - John
One female 16-25; b. 1795-1804 -
One male under 10; b. 1810-1820 -
One female under 10; b. 1810-1820 -
John Bledsoe's children
i. Anne Bledsoe 1820-1903
ii. Sarah Jane Bledsoe 1827-Unknown
iii. Rachel Bledsoe 1841-1926
iv. Lucinda Bledsoe 1842-1885
v. George Bledsoe 1844-Unknown
6) Moses Bledsoe, Jr., b. 1787, Orange Co., VA; m.c. 1828, Orange Co., VA to Sidney Leancy Wright [b.c. 1808, Orange Co., VA; d. 4 Jun 1889, Orange Co., VA; daughter of William Wright Sr. and Rachel Perry]; he d. 3 Sep 1850, Orange Co., VA; probably buried
1810 Orange Co., VA Tax List – taxed 17 Mar
[Each had only one white male age 16 or over]
Moses Bledsoe 1-0-4
Moses Bledsoe, Jr. 1-0-0
Jul 1832 - Leancy's father named her in his will:
"Eighth, I give to my daughter, Leancy Bledsoe, wife of Moses Bledsoe, some personal estate which she took in possession when she left me. I give to her one negro boy by the name of David to her and her heirs forever as her full share and part of my estate."
1850 census, Orange Co., VA, p. 222:
Moses Bledsoe, 63, Farmer, $167, VA
Sidney, 44, VA
William J., 17, VA
Moses G., 16, VA
Richard L., 14, VA
Martha A., 12, VA
Jessy (male), 6, VA
Verlinda, 8, VA
Rachel Wright, 84, VA
Moses died 3 Sep 1850, Orange Co., VA.
1860 census, Orange Co., VA, p. 604
Catlett Rhodes, 54, farmer, VA son of Lucy Wright and Richard Rhoades
Nancy, 57, VA
Achilles, 15, MO
Lucy W., 20
Malinda Rhodes, 65, VA, $8,800 personal prop.
[next door]
Sidney Bledsoe (female), 54, VA
Vestenda C., 17, VA
Jesse N., 15, VA
[next door]
William I. Bledsoe, 27, VA
Jane F., 32, VA
Milton H., 2, VA
1870 census, Orange Co., VA, Orange Court House, p. 333
[Lives near Richard Rhoads, next door to Peggy Bledsoe, next to John M. Bledsoe]
Sidney Bledsoe, 63, VA
1880 census, Orange Co., VA, Gordon Dist., p. 332
Wm. Bledsoe, 48, VA b. 1832
Jane F., 52, VA
Milton H., 21, VA
Betty, 18, daughter, VA
Sydney Bledsoe, 74, VA
R. Conway, 6, VA
Sidney was from a devote Baptist family and was living with her son William when she died. William is buried at Rhoadsville Baptist cemetery, so I'm assuming she is, too.
*****
4. Howard Bledsoe, b.c. 1747, Spotsylvania or Orange Co., VA; probably never married; he d. 1777, VA, a Revolutionary War soldier.
*****
5. George Bledsoe, Jr., b.c. 1750, Spotsylvania or Orange Co., VA; he d. probably c.1810, Orange Co., VA;
1785 - Orange Co., VA tax list
George Bledsoe (Jr) 5 white tithables
22 June 1789, Orange Co., VA Road Orders, Page 512
"George Bledsoe Junr. is Appointed Overseer of the Road in the Room of Wm. Peacher from the Old Trap to the Tomb Stone."
1791 - Orange Co., VA tax list
George Bledsoe Sr. 3 tithables 50 acres
George Bledsoe Jr. 1 tithable
27 Oct 1794, Orange Co., VA Court Records - George Jr. was ordered to appraise the estate of Daniel Singleton, along with others.
27 Oct 1794, Orange Co., VA Court Records - George Jr. was ordered to appraise the estate of Pierce Perry, along with others.
28 October 1794, Orange Co., VA Road Orders, Page 262
"John Wright appointed road overseer in the Room of Geo. Bledsoe Junr."
28 January 1799, Orange Co., VA Road Orders, Page 111
"On the Petition of Robert Young Wm Quisenbury, George Bledsoe jr James Herndon & George Quisenbury or any three or more of them they being first Qualified are appointed viewers to view an intended way for Roads one beginning about Three Miles below the Orange Springs on the
Fredericksbg road to Run through the Land of Alexr
. McAlester to John Youngs Mill another to begin a little below the first and to run through the Land of Benjn
. Lancaster to Youngs Mill & the other to Begin a little balow Thomas Fattons (?) to run through the Land of (blank) Edgar to the sd. Youngs Mill Ordered that they view the sd. Several ways for roads and make report do the
Court of the Conveniences & inconveniences attending the same accd to Law."
21 Dec 1803, Orange Co., VA - George's son George Jr. sells land that he received from his uncle John Bledsoe's estate.
1810 Orange Co., VA tax list
Moses Bledsoe (son of George and Lucy) 1 tithable
Moses Bledsoe Jr. 1 tithable
John Bledsoe 1 tithable
Howard Bledsoe 1 tithable
George Bledsoe Jr. 1 tithable
George Bledsoe Sr. (son of George and Lucy) 1 tithable
George Bledsoe Jr.'s children:
The 1785 tax list indicates that he probably had at least four sons.
Son of George Jr?
1830 census, Orange, Virginia, Page 297
George Bledsoe 0-0-0-1-0-0-0-1 0-0-0-0-0-0-0-1
One male 50-60; b. 1770-1780 - George
One female 50-60; b. 1770-1780 -
One male 15-20; b. 1810-1820 -
??? widow of a son of George Jr.?
1830 census, Orange, Virginia, Page 297
Susan Bledsoe 0-0-0-0-0 0-1-0-0-0-1
One female 30-40; b. 1790-1800 -
One female 5-10; b. 1820-1825 -
*****
George married about 1735 to Lucy __.
Sources for this biography include:
"The Bledsoe Family in America" by Banks McLaurin, Jr., 1993
ORANGE COUNTY ROAD ORDERS 1750-1800 by Ann Brush Miller
Research Historian Orange County Historical Society
28 February 1750 O.S. Orange Co., VA Road Orders, Page 289
"On the Petition of Benjamin Cave Gent it is Ordered that a Road be cleared from the Main Road by Hardins Quarter to the Pine Stake Church and that the Male Labouring Tithables at the said Hardins Quarter, at Fleets Quarter at Neels Quarter, Edward Hay1ys, George Bledsoe, James
Mitchel, John Hayley, Thomas Gahagon Benjamin Caves Philip Singleton & Daniel Singletons do clear the Same & that Thomas Gahagon be Overseer of the said Road"
October 28, 1756, Orange Co., VA Road Orders, Page 283
"Geo. Bledsoe is Appointed Overseer of the Road in the room of Benja Cave Gent & that he with the Gang that was under the said Cave Clear & keep the same in Repair."
22 September 1757, Orange Co., VA Road Orders, Page 350
"Richard Thomas Gent. Stephen Smith & Stephen I. K. Smith who were appointed & Sworn to veiw the Way from Fredericksburg road by Hardins old field to join the road from Garnets folly to Spotsylvania Line having made their report that the same is a Levell way, it is therefore
ordered that the same be Cleared as laid off by the Veiwers to Spotsylvania to meet the road from the sd. Line to Garnets folly & the following Persons are appointed to assist in the opening & Clearing the said till the same be opened, Vizt. Daniel Singleton, Philip Singleton John Bledsoe, Geo Bledsoe, James Mitchell, Joseph Rennolds Samuel Rice, John Wright, Robert Lancaster the Male
Labouring Tiths. at Fleets Quarter at John Conners at Braxtons Quarter at Thos. Haleys & also the Gang that works on the Road from the Poplar Spring down to the Tomb Stone & with those that work on the roads above Capt
. Caves to the pine Stake Church & that Philip Singleton be overseer of the same."
23 February 1758, Orange Co., VA Road Orders, Page 364
"On the Petition of Joseph Rennolds for a Bridle way from his house the Most Convenientest way into the Road to Fredericksburg Ordered that John Bledsoe George Bledsoe Samuel Rice & John Wright or any three of them being first Sworn before some Justice for this County do Veiw the said Intended way & make report to the Court of the Conveniences & inconveniences Attending the same."
25 October 1759, Orange Co., VA Road Orders, "Page 503
"On the Petition of John Conner Overseer for Miss Mary Willis, that the Way used to Roll Tobacco from the said Willisís plantation on the Mine Run into the Road to Fredericksburgh is Stopped & that he has no way open to Roll or Cart therefore it is Ordered That George Bledsoe
John Bledsoe John Wright and Philip Singleton or any three of them being first Sworn as the Law directs, Veiw the best & Most Convenient way for a Road to be cleared from the said Plantation for Rolling & that they make report to the Court of the Conveniences & inconveniences attending the same."
This land deed is definitely our George:
1760 - Orange Co., VA Deed Book 13, p. 78
"William Bledsoe and wife Elizabeth of Spotsylvania Co., VA deed to George Bledsoe of Orange Co., VA...for natural love and parental affection, 150 acres of land adjoining land of William Bledsoe, Jr. and Benjamin Cave."
May 1763, Orange Co., VA Road Orders, Page 13
"Zachary Allan is Appointed Overseer of the Road from the Tomb Stone down to the fork of the Road by the old Trap in the room of George Bledsoe & that he with the Gang that was under the sd. Bledsoe & also Jos. Wharton & his Son clear & keep the said road in repair."
22 Jun 1767 - Orange Co., VA Deed Book 14, p. 188
"George Bledsoe witnessed a deed when William Cave bought land."
25 Jun 1767 - Orange Co., VA Deed Book 14, p. 190
"George Bledsoe joined by his wife Lucy sold land to William Beckham."
8 Jul 1767 - Orange Co., VA Deed Book 14, p.
"George witnessed a deed when William Cave sold land."
1769 - George is named in his father William Cave's will.
26 Sep 1770 - Orange Co., VA Deed Book 15, p. 250
"George and Lucy sold land to William Cave in Orange Co., VA."
1774, Orange Co., VA - George's brother Aaron founded a Baptist Church:
"North Pamunkey Baptist Church was founded in 1774 by Aaron Bledsoe & Elijah Craig. The early church, which was a one room log structure, was known by several names including: North Fork of the Pamunkey, Bledsoe's Meeting House and North Pamunkey Meeting House. Aaron Bledsoe was pastor for 32 years. During his leadership the church grew from a membership of 20 to 350 in 1806." - See more at: http://www.visitorangevirginia.com/index.php/home/profile/north_pamunkey_baptist_church#sthash.4a64cSti.dpuf
1777 - Son Howard dies as a Revolutionary War soldier.
"Patriots of the Up Country"
p. 115 -
3 Nov 1777, Orange Co., VA - George signed a petition regarding taxation.
p. 114 -
17 Nov 1777, Orange Co., VA - George signed a petition regarding the difficulties of attending militia musters.
p. 121 -
24 May 1779, Orange Co., VA - George signed a petition on dividing the county in half due to its large size.
1782 - Orange Co., VA tax list
George Bledsoe 2 white tithables and 50 acres
John Bledsoe 4 white tithables
Moses Bledsoe 4 white tithables
22 May 1783, Orange Co., VA Road Orders, Page 233
"George Bledsoe Appointed Overseer of the Road from Catlett Conwas Gate to the fork of the Roads below the Pine Stake Church and Ordered that Catlett Conways hands & those Below that Worked under Finlasaon Sleat do Clear & keep the Same in good repair."
26 May 1785, Orange Co., VA Road Orders, Page 316
"Thos. Bohon Appointed Overseer of the Road in the Room of Geo. Bledsoe from Pine Stake Church to Capt Conways Gate."
1785 - Orange Co., VA tax list
George Bledsoe 3 white tithables
John Bledsoe 2 white tithables
Moses Bledsoe 5 white tithables
George Bledsoe 5 white tithables
1789 - Orange Co., VA tax list
George Bledsoe 50 acres
1790 - Orange Co., VA tax list
George Bledsoe 50 acres
27 September 1790, Orange Co., VA Road Orders, Page 49
"George Bledsoe is appointed Overseer of the road from the mine run to the Tombstone and Ordered that the following hands of William Suillivan George Pain, Thomas Faulkner, Peter Mason, Mary Perry, Daniel Singleton, Richard Webb, John Procter, William Grady & Ann Grastyís Do clear and Keep the same in Good Repair Accordg. to Law."
1791 - Orange Co., VA tax list
George Bledsoe Sr. 3 tithables 50 acres
George Bledsoe Jr. 1 tithable
Moses Bledsoe 1 tithable
24 September 1792, Orange Co., VA Road Orders, Page 145
"Ordered that the Sher. pay George Bledsoe 16/ out of the Deposit in his hands for Seting up four Sign Boards."
1792 - Orange Co., VA tax list
George Bledsoe 50 acres
23 April 1793, Orange Co., VA Road Orders, Page 173
"Appointed A List of the Overseers of Roads and Precints
Octr .26th George Bledsoe from the Mine run up to the Tomb Stone."
1793 - Orange Co., VA tax list
George Bledsoe 50 acres
1794 - Orange Co., VA tax list
George Bledsoe 50 acres
27 Oct 1794, Orange Co., VA Court Records - George Jr. was ordered to appraise the estate of Daniel Singleton, along with others.
27 Oct 1794, Orange Co., VA Court Records - George Jr. was ordered to appraise the estate of Pierce Perry, along with others.
4 Apr 1795, Orange Co., VA - George witnessed a land deed.
29 September 1795, Orange Co., VA Road Orders, Page 332
"Gutridge Grasty Appointed Overseer of the Road from the Tomb Stone to the Mine run With the hands that worked Under George Bledsoe."
23 Dec 1796, Spotsylvania Co., VA - George and his son Moses witnessed a land deed of George's son John.
1798 - Orange Co., VA tax list
George Bledsoe 50 acres
Moses Bledsoe 225 acres and 11 acres
8 Jan 1799, Spotsylvania Co., VA - George and his son Moses witnessed a second land deed of George's son John:
"On 8 Jan 1799, Caleb Abell witnessed a deed by William Gholson and Mary, his wife, of Spotsylvania County for 133 acres in Spotsylvania County, Virginia to John Bledsoe of Orange County, Virginia for £120 currency. Witnesses: Moses Bledsoe, Joseph Johnson, Mary Johnson, Caleb Abell and George Bledsoe. Filed: 2 Jul 1799 Book P."
12 Sep 1800, Orange Co., VA - George's brother John names him in his will. Lucy is also still living, as are three sons, Moses, John, and George Jr.:
Orange Co., VA Will Book 4, p. 16
Will of John Bledsoe dated 12 Sep 1800; probated 27 Jul 1801 -
To nephew George Bledsoe, son of my brother George, 20 pounds.
To nephew John Bledsoe, son of my brother George, 20 pounds.
To nephew Moses Bledsoe, son of my brother George, 20 pounds.
To my brother George and his wife, Lucy, $20 annually for life.
To my brother William's sons, John, Joseph, James, Benjamin, William, Abraham, Isaac and Jacob Bledsoe, 20 pounds to each.
1801-1802 - George dies.
21 Dec 1803, Orange Co., VA - George's son George Jr. sells land that he received from his uncle John Bledsoe's estate.
1810 Orange Co., VA tax list
Moses Bledsoe (son of George and Lucy) 1 tithable
Moses Bledsoe Jr. 1 tithable
John Bledsoe 1 tithable
Howard Bledsoe 1 tithable
George Bledsoe Jr. 1 tithable
George Bledsoe Sr. (son of George and Lucy) 1 tithable
*****
George Bledsoe and Lucy's children:
1. Mary Bledsoe, b.c. 1740, Spotsylvania or Orange Co., VA; m.c. 1758, Orange Co., VA to William Wright [b. 1730, King William Co., VA; d. 1730, Jan 1833, Orange Co., VA; son of John Wright and Frances __]; she d. 1786, Orange Co., VA; buried on Wright farm.
*****
2. John Bledsoe, b.c. 1742, Spotsylvania or Orange Co., VA; he may have gone to KY after 1799;
1782 - Orange Co., VA tax list
John Bledsoe 4 white tithables
1785 - Orange Co., VA tax list
John Bledsoe 2 white tithables
He returned to, or at least bought land in, Spotsylvania County:
23 Dec 1796, Spotsylvania Co., VA - George Sr. and his son Moses witnessed a land deed of George's son John.
8 Jan 1799, Spotsylvania Co., VA - George Sr. and his son Moses witnessed a second land deed of George's son John.
John Bledsoe's children:
The 1782 tax list indicates that he probably had at least three sons.
*****
3. Moses Bledsoe, b.c. 1745, Spotsylvania or Orange Co., VA; m. 10 Dec 1777, St. Thomas Parish, Orange Co., VA to Anne Perry [b. 1750-1760, VA; d. after 1830, Orange Co., VA; buried probably Rhoadsville Baptist cemetery; daughter of William Pierce Perry and Mary Level]; he d. 26 Aug 1811, Orange Co., VA; buried probably on his farm.
1782 - Orange Co., VA tax list
Moses Bledsoe 4 white tithables
1785 - Orange Co., VA tax list
Moses Bledsoe 5 white tithables
1791 - Orange Co., VA tax list
Moses Bledsoe 1 tithable
26 September 1796, Orange Co., VA Road Orders, Page 408
"Moses Bledsoe appointed overseer of the road from the Old Office to The Old Trap & Ordd that he keep the same in Good repair accordg to Law."
23 Dec 1796, Spotsylvania Co., VA - George and his son Moses witnessed a land deed of George's son John.
26 June 1797, Orange Co., VA Road Orders, Page 28
"Moses Bledsoe Appointed Overseer of the Road from the Old Office run to the Old Trap in the Room of John Davis."
1798 - Orange Co., VA tax list
George Bledsoe 50 acres
Moses Bledsoe 225 acres and 11 acres
8 Jan 1799, Spotsylvania Co., VA - George and his son Moses witnessed a second land deed of George's son John.
1810 Orange Co., VA Tax List – taxed 17 Mar
[Each had only one white male age 16 or over]
Moses Bledsoe 1-0-4
Moses Bledsoe, Jr. 1-0-0
1820 census, Orange, Virginia, Page 69
Ann Bledsoe 0-2-0-0-1-0 0-0-1-0-1
One female over 45; b. by 1775 - Ann
One female 25-44; b. 1776-1795 -
Two males 10-15; b. 1805-1810 -
1830 census, Orange, Virginia, Page 297
Ann Bledsoe 0-0-0-0-0-0-1 0-0-0-0-0-0-1-0-0-1
One female 70-80; b. 1750-1760 - Ann
One male 40-50; 1780-1790 -
One female 40-50; 1780-1790 -
The 1785 tax list indicates that Moses probably had at least four sons.
Moses Bledsoe's children:
1) Elizabeth Bledsoe , b. 1780, Orange Co., VA; m. Joseph Johnson [b. 1780; d. 1868]; she d. 1874;
2) Benjamin Bledsoe, b. 1770-1780, Orange Co., VA; m. 23 Oct 1801, Madison Co., VA to Rosanna Yager [b. 1780-1790; d. 1830-1840, Orange Co., VA; daughter of Godfrey Yager and Mary Wayland]; he d. 1885, Orange Co., VA; buried
Godfrey Yager's estate in Madison Co., VA:
1801 Benjamin Bledsoe and Rosanna his wife were given furniture, household items and livestock.
In 1809 they were also given slaves Hannah and child. Total value £138.9.0.
1820 census, Orange, Virginia, Page 72
Benjamin Bledsoe 0-1-0-0-1-0 1-2-1-1-0
One male 26-44; b. 1776-1795 - Benjamin
One female 26-44; b. 1776-1795 - Rosanna
One female 16-25; b. 1795-1804 -
One male 10-15; b. 1805-1810 -
Two females 10-15; b. 1805-1810 -
One female under 10; b. 1810-1820 -
1822 -
Madison Co., Virginia, Will Book 4, page 193 The land of Godfrey Yager was surveyed on 4 June 1822 by John Price. The survey shows his land contains 199 acres, 1 rood and 30 poles. "In obedience to a decree of the County Court of Madison made on the 22nd day of March 1821, in the case of Bledsoe & C vs. Yager & C and hereto annexed & in obedience to the decree of said Court this day made in said suit thereto annexed the undersigned beg leave to report that according to the annexed plat & survey they have allotted to Mary Yager the widow of Godfrey Yager dec'ed one hundred and five acres two roods and five poles as dower of the lands of her late husband Godfrey Yager deceased
28 December 1822, Madison Co., VA Anna Green, Susanna Smith, Howard Bledsoe and wife Julia (Ann), Salathiel W. Yager and wife Ann and Mary Yager of Madison County, Virginia, John Collins and wife Elizabeth, Benjamin Bledsoe and wife Rosa of Orange County, Virginia, Simeon Yager and wife Betsy of Shendandoah County, Virginia, Lewis Cook and wife Polly and Ephraim Yager of Kentucky, heirs and distributes of Godfrey Yager sold 88 ½ acres to Joseph Carpenter for $1770. 23
1830 census, Orange, Virginia, Page 297
Benjamin Bledsoe 0-0-1-0-1-0-0-1 0-0-1-0-2-0-1
One male 50-60; b. 1770-1780 - Benjamin
One female 40-50; b. 1780-1790 - Rosanna
One male 20-30; b. 1800-1810 -
Two females 20-30; b. 1800-1810 -
One male 10-15; b. 1815-1820 -
One female 10-15; b. 1815-1820 -
1840 census, Orange, Virginia, Page 4
Benj Bledsoe 0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-1 0-0-0-1-1-0-1
One male 60-70; b. 1770-1780 - Benjamin
One female 40-50; b. 1790-1800 - Rosanna
1850 census, Orange county, part of, Orange, Virginia
Rosa Bledsoe F 60 Virginia
Mary A Bledsoe F 35 Virginia
Rosana Smith F 25 Virginia
Benjamin Bledsoe's children (probably a couple others):
i. Susan Bledsoe, b. 1802
ii. William Lewis Bledsoe, b. 2 Jan 1807; m. Rachel Frances Perry; he d. 1859, Cabell Co., VA;
iii. Nancy Bledsoe, b. 1810; d. 1902
iv. Mary Anne Bledsoe, b. 1814; d. 1908
v. Jane Bledsoe, b. 1817; d. 1908
vi. Elizabeth Bledsoe, b. 1805; d. 1899
vii. John A Bledsoe, b. 1816;
3) Howard Bledsoe, b. 1789, Orange Co., VA; m. 23 Apr 1810, Madison Co., VA to Julia Yager [b. 17 Jun 1785, Culpeper Co., VA; d. 28 Jun 1878, Madison Co., VA; daughter of Godfrey Yager and Mary Wayland]; he d. 11 Jan 1851, Orange Co., VA;
From Godfrey Yager's estate in Madison Co., VA:
1810 Howard Bledsoe and Julia were given furniture, household goods, a saddle and bridle and a slave girl Harriett, total value £63.13.0.
1819, Madison Co., VA
December 1819 a sale was held of Godfrey Yager's estate, total sales were $933.24¾. Buyers included Mary Yager (widow), Aaron A. Yager, Salathiel W. Yager, Michael Meyerhoeffer (minister of Hebron Lutheran Church), Howard Bledsoe, and others
28 December 1822, Madison Co., VA Anna Green, Susanna Smith, Howard Bledsoe and wife Julia (Ann), Salathiel W. Yager and wife Ann and Mary Yager of Madison County, Virginia, John Collins and wife Elizabeth, Benjamin Bledsoe and wife Rosa of Orange County, Virginia, Simeon Yager and wife Betsy of Shendandoah County, Virginia, Lewis Cook and wife Polly and Ephraim Yager of Kentucky, heirs and distributes of Godfrey Yager sold 88 ½ acres to Joseph Carpenter for $1770. 23
4) Hannah Bledsoe, b. 1789, Orange Co., VA; m. Benjamin Herndon [d. 1880, VA]; she d. 1870, VA; buried
5) John Bledsoe, b. 1790, Orange Co., VA; m. 1st Margaret Perry [1792-1860]; m. 2nd to Nancy Goodman [1796-1860]; he d. 25 Jan 1869, Orange Co., VA;
1820 census, Orange, Virginia, Page 71
John Bledsoe 1-0-0-0-1-0 1-0-1-0-0
One male 26-44; b. 1776-1795 - John
One female 16-25; b. 1795-1804 -
One male under 10; b. 1810-1820 -
One female under 10; b. 1810-1820 -
John Bledsoe's children
i. Anne Bledsoe 1820-1903
ii. Sarah Jane Bledsoe 1827-Unknown
iii. Rachel Bledsoe 1841-1926
iv. Lucinda Bledsoe 1842-1885
v. George Bledsoe 1844-Unknown
6) Moses Bledsoe, Jr., b. 1787, Orange Co., VA; m.c. 1828, Orange Co., VA to Sidney Leancy Wright [b.c. 1808, Orange Co., VA; d. 4 Jun 1889, Orange Co., VA; daughter of William Wright Sr. and Rachel Perry]; he d. 3 Sep 1850, Orange Co., VA; probably buried
1810 Orange Co., VA Tax List – taxed 17 Mar
[Each had only one white male age 16 or over]
Moses Bledsoe 1-0-4
Moses Bledsoe, Jr. 1-0-0
Jul 1832 - Leancy's father named her in his will:
"Eighth, I give to my daughter, Leancy Bledsoe, wife of Moses Bledsoe, some personal estate which she took in possession when she left me. I give to her one negro boy by the name of David to her and her heirs forever as her full share and part of my estate."
1850 census, Orange Co., VA, p. 222:
Moses Bledsoe, 63, Farmer, $167, VA
Sidney, 44, VA
William J., 17, VA
Moses G., 16, VA
Richard L., 14, VA
Martha A., 12, VA
Jessy (male), 6, VA
Verlinda, 8, VA
Rachel Wright, 84, VA
Moses died 3 Sep 1850, Orange Co., VA.
1860 census, Orange Co., VA, p. 604
Catlett Rhodes, 54, farmer, VA son of Lucy Wright and Richard Rhoades
Nancy, 57, VA
Achilles, 15, MO
Lucy W., 20
Malinda Rhodes, 65, VA, $8,800 personal prop.
[next door]
Sidney Bledsoe (female), 54, VA
Vestenda C., 17, VA
Jesse N., 15, VA
[next door]
William I. Bledsoe, 27, VA
Jane F., 32, VA
Milton H., 2, VA
1870 census, Orange Co., VA, Orange Court House, p. 333
[Lives near Richard Rhoads, next door to Peggy Bledsoe, next to John M. Bledsoe]
Sidney Bledsoe, 63, VA
1880 census, Orange Co., VA, Gordon Dist., p. 332
Wm. Bledsoe, 48, VA b. 1832
Jane F., 52, VA
Milton H., 21, VA
Betty, 18, daughter, VA
Sydney Bledsoe, 74, VA
R. Conway, 6, VA
Sidney was from a devote Baptist family and was living with her son William when she died. William is buried at Rhoadsville Baptist cemetery, so I'm assuming she is, too.
*****
4. Howard Bledsoe, b.c. 1747, Spotsylvania or Orange Co., VA; probably never married; he d. 1777, VA, a Revolutionary War soldier.
*****
5. George Bledsoe, Jr., b.c. 1750, Spotsylvania or Orange Co., VA; he d. probably c.1810, Orange Co., VA;
1785 - Orange Co., VA tax list
George Bledsoe (Jr) 5 white tithables
22 June 1789, Orange Co., VA Road Orders, Page 512
"George Bledsoe Junr. is Appointed Overseer of the Road in the Room of Wm. Peacher from the Old Trap to the Tomb Stone."
1791 - Orange Co., VA tax list
George Bledsoe Sr. 3 tithables 50 acres
George Bledsoe Jr. 1 tithable
27 Oct 1794, Orange Co., VA Court Records - George Jr. was ordered to appraise the estate of Daniel Singleton, along with others.
27 Oct 1794, Orange Co., VA Court Records - George Jr. was ordered to appraise the estate of Pierce Perry, along with others.
28 October 1794, Orange Co., VA Road Orders, Page 262
"John Wright appointed road overseer in the Room of Geo. Bledsoe Junr."
28 January 1799, Orange Co., VA Road Orders, Page 111
"On the Petition of Robert Young Wm Quisenbury, George Bledsoe jr James Herndon & George Quisenbury or any three or more of them they being first Qualified are appointed viewers to view an intended way for Roads one beginning about Three Miles below the Orange Springs on the
Fredericksbg road to Run through the Land of Alexr
. McAlester to John Youngs Mill another to begin a little below the first and to run through the Land of Benjn
. Lancaster to Youngs Mill & the other to Begin a little balow Thomas Fattons (?) to run through the Land of (blank) Edgar to the sd. Youngs Mill Ordered that they view the sd. Several ways for roads and make report do the
Court of the Conveniences & inconveniences attending the same accd to Law."
21 Dec 1803, Orange Co., VA - George's son George Jr. sells land that he received from his uncle John Bledsoe's estate.
1810 Orange Co., VA tax list
Moses Bledsoe (son of George and Lucy) 1 tithable
Moses Bledsoe Jr. 1 tithable
John Bledsoe 1 tithable
Howard Bledsoe 1 tithable
George Bledsoe Jr. 1 tithable
George Bledsoe Sr. (son of George and Lucy) 1 tithable
George Bledsoe Jr.'s children:
The 1785 tax list indicates that he probably had at least four sons.
Son of George Jr?
1830 census, Orange, Virginia, Page 297
George Bledsoe 0-0-0-1-0-0-0-1 0-0-0-0-0-0-0-1
One male 50-60; b. 1770-1780 - George
One female 50-60; b. 1770-1780 -
One male 15-20; b. 1810-1820 -
??? widow of a son of George Jr.?
1830 census, Orange, Virginia, Page 297
Susan Bledsoe 0-0-0-0-0 0-1-0-0-0-1
One female 30-40; b. 1790-1800 -
One female 5-10; b. 1820-1825 -
*****
Son of William E. Bledsoe and wife Elizabeth of Spotsylvania Co., Virginia. William was born about 1676 in Northumberland Co., Virginia and died 19 Apr 1770 in Culpeper Co., Virginia.
George married about 1735 to Lucy __.
Sources for this biography include:
"The Bledsoe Family in America" by Banks McLaurin, Jr., 1993
ORANGE COUNTY ROAD ORDERS 1750-1800 by Ann Brush Miller
Research Historian Orange County Historical Society
28 February 1750 O.S. Orange Co., VA Road Orders, Page 289
"On the Petition of Benjamin Cave Gent it is Ordered that a Road be cleared from the Main Road by Hardins Quarter to the Pine Stake Church and that the Male Labouring Tithables at the said Hardins Quarter, at Fleets Quarter at Neels Quarter, Edward Hay1ys, George Bledsoe, James
Mitchel, John Hayley, Thomas Gahagon Benjamin Caves Philip Singleton & Daniel Singletons do clear the Same & that Thomas Gahagon be Overseer of the said Road"
October 28, 1756, Orange Co., VA Road Orders, Page 283
"Geo. Bledsoe is Appointed Overseer of the Road in the room of Benja Cave Gent & that he with the Gang that was under the said Cave Clear & keep the same in Repair."
22 September 1757, Orange Co., VA Road Orders, Page 350
"Richard Thomas Gent. Stephen Smith & Stephen I. K. Smith who were appointed & Sworn to veiw the Way from Fredericksburg road by Hardins old field to join the road from Garnets folly to Spotsylvania Line having made their report that the same is a Levell way, it is therefore
ordered that the same be Cleared as laid off by the Veiwers to Spotsylvania to meet the road from the sd. Line to Garnets folly & the following Persons are appointed to assist in the opening & Clearing the said till the same be opened, Vizt. Daniel Singleton, Philip Singleton John Bledsoe, Geo Bledsoe, James Mitchell, Joseph Rennolds Samuel Rice, John Wright, Robert Lancaster the Male
Labouring Tiths. at Fleets Quarter at John Conners at Braxtons Quarter at Thos. Haleys & also the Gang that works on the Road from the Poplar Spring down to the Tomb Stone & with those that work on the roads above Capt
. Caves to the pine Stake Church & that Philip Singleton be overseer of the same."
23 February 1758, Orange Co., VA Road Orders, Page 364
"On the Petition of Joseph Rennolds for a Bridle way from his house the Most Convenientest way into the Road to Fredericksburg Ordered that John Bledsoe George Bledsoe Samuel Rice & John Wright or any three of them being first Sworn before some Justice for this County do Veiw the said Intended way & make report to the Court of the Conveniences & inconveniences Attending the same."
25 October 1759, Orange Co., VA Road Orders, "Page 503
"On the Petition of John Conner Overseer for Miss Mary Willis, that the Way used to Roll Tobacco from the said Willisís plantation on the Mine Run into the Road to Fredericksburgh is Stopped & that he has no way open to Roll or Cart therefore it is Ordered That George Bledsoe
John Bledsoe John Wright and Philip Singleton or any three of them being first Sworn as the Law directs, Veiw the best & Most Convenient way for a Road to be cleared from the said Plantation for Rolling & that they make report to the Court of the Conveniences & inconveniences attending the same."
This land deed is definitely our George:
1760 - Orange Co., VA Deed Book 13, p. 78
"William Bledsoe and wife Elizabeth of Spotsylvania Co., VA deed to George Bledsoe of Orange Co., VA...for natural love and parental affection, 150 acres of land adjoining land of William Bledsoe, Jr. and Benjamin Cave."
May 1763, Orange Co., VA Road Orders, Page 13
"Zachary Allan is Appointed Overseer of the Road from the Tomb Stone down to the fork of the Road by the old Trap in the room of George Bledsoe & that he with the Gang that was under the sd. Bledsoe & also Jos. Wharton & his Son clear & keep the said road in repair."
22 Jun 1767 - Orange Co., VA Deed Book 14, p. 188
"George Bledsoe witnessed a deed when William Cave bought land."
25 Jun 1767 - Orange Co., VA Deed Book 14, p. 190
"George Bledsoe joined by his wife Lucy sold land to William Beckham."
8 Jul 1767 - Orange Co., VA Deed Book 14, p.
"George witnessed a deed when William Cave sold land."
1769 - George is named in his father William Cave's will.
26 Sep 1770 - Orange Co., VA Deed Book 15, p. 250
"George and Lucy sold land to William Cave in Orange Co., VA."
1774, Orange Co., VA - George's brother Aaron founded a Baptist Church:
"North Pamunkey Baptist Church was founded in 1774 by Aaron Bledsoe & Elijah Craig. The early church, which was a one room log structure, was known by several names including: North Fork of the Pamunkey, Bledsoe's Meeting House and North Pamunkey Meeting House. Aaron Bledsoe was pastor for 32 years. During his leadership the church grew from a membership of 20 to 350 in 1806." - See more at: http://www.visitorangevirginia.com/index.php/home/profile/north_pamunkey_baptist_church#sthash.4a64cSti.dpuf
1777 - Son Howard dies as a Revolutionary War soldier.
"Patriots of the Up Country"
p. 115 -
3 Nov 1777, Orange Co., VA - George signed a petition regarding taxation.
p. 114 -
17 Nov 1777, Orange Co., VA - George signed a petition regarding the difficulties of attending militia musters.
p. 121 -
24 May 1779, Orange Co., VA - George signed a petition on dividing the county in half due to its large size.
1782 - Orange Co., VA tax list
George Bledsoe 2 white tithables and 50 acres
John Bledsoe 4 white tithables
Moses Bledsoe 4 white tithables
22 May 1783, Orange Co., VA Road Orders, Page 233
"George Bledsoe Appointed Overseer of the Road from Catlett Conwas Gate to the fork of the Roads below the Pine Stake Church and Ordered that Catlett Conways hands & those Below that Worked under Finlasaon Sleat do Clear & keep the Same in good repair."
26 May 1785, Orange Co., VA Road Orders, Page 316
"Thos. Bohon Appointed Overseer of the Road in the Room of Geo. Bledsoe from Pine Stake Church to Capt Conways Gate."
1785 - Orange Co., VA tax list
George Bledsoe 3 white tithables
John Bledsoe 2 white tithables
Moses Bledsoe 5 white tithables
George Bledsoe 5 white tithables
1789 - Orange Co., VA tax list
George Bledsoe 50 acres
1790 - Orange Co., VA tax list
George Bledsoe 50 acres
27 September 1790, Orange Co., VA Road Orders, Page 49
"George Bledsoe is appointed Overseer of the road from the mine run to the Tombstone and Ordered that the following hands of William Suillivan George Pain, Thomas Faulkner, Peter Mason, Mary Perry, Daniel Singleton, Richard Webb, John Procter, William Grady & Ann Grastyís Do clear and Keep the same in Good Repair Accordg. to Law."
1791 - Orange Co., VA tax list
George Bledsoe Sr. 3 tithables 50 acres
George Bledsoe Jr. 1 tithable
Moses Bledsoe 1 tithable
24 September 1792, Orange Co., VA Road Orders, Page 145
"Ordered that the Sher. pay George Bledsoe 16/ out of the Deposit in his hands for Seting up four Sign Boards."
1792 - Orange Co., VA tax list
George Bledsoe 50 acres
23 April 1793, Orange Co., VA Road Orders, Page 173
"Appointed A List of the Overseers of Roads and Precints
Octr .26th George Bledsoe from the Mine run up to the Tomb Stone."
1793 - Orange Co., VA tax list
George Bledsoe 50 acres
1794 - Orange Co., VA tax list
George Bledsoe 50 acres
27 Oct 1794, Orange Co., VA Court Records - George Jr. was ordered to appraise the estate of Daniel Singleton, along with others.
27 Oct 1794, Orange Co., VA Court Records - George Jr. was ordered to appraise the estate of Pierce Perry, along with others.
4 Apr 1795, Orange Co., VA - George witnessed a land deed.
29 September 1795, Orange Co., VA Road Orders, Page 332
"Gutridge Grasty Appointed Overseer of the Road from the Tomb Stone to the Mine run With the hands that worked Under George Bledsoe."
23 Dec 1796, Spotsylvania Co., VA - George and his son Moses witnessed a land deed of George's son John.
1798 - Orange Co., VA tax list
George Bledsoe 50 acres
Moses Bledsoe 225 acres and 11 acres
8 Jan 1799, Spotsylvania Co., VA - George and his son Moses witnessed a second land deed of George's son John:
"On 8 Jan 1799, Caleb Abell witnessed a deed by William Gholson and Mary, his wife, of Spotsylvania County for 133 acres in Spotsylvania County, Virginia to John Bledsoe of Orange County, Virginia for £120 currency. Witnesses: Moses Bledsoe, Joseph Johnson, Mary Johnson, Caleb Abell and George Bledsoe. Filed: 2 Jul 1799 Book P."
12 Sep 1800, Orange Co., VA - George's brother John names him in his will. Lucy is also still living, as are three sons, Moses, John, and George Jr.:
Orange Co., VA Will Book 4, p. 16
Will of John Bledsoe dated 12 Sep 1800; probated 27 Jul 1801 -
To nephew George Bledsoe, son of my brother George, 20 pounds.
To nephew John Bledsoe, son of my brother George, 20 pounds.
To nephew Moses Bledsoe, son of my brother George, 20 pounds.
To my brother George and his wife, Lucy, $20 annually for life.
To my brother William's sons, John, Joseph, James, Benjamin, William, Abraham, Isaac and Jacob Bledsoe, 20 pounds to each.
1801-1802 - George dies.
21 Dec 1803, Orange Co., VA - George's son George Jr. sells land that he received from his uncle John Bledsoe's estate.
1810 Orange Co., VA tax list
Moses Bledsoe (son of George and Lucy) 1 tithable
Moses Bledsoe Jr. 1 tithable
John Bledsoe 1 tithable
Howard Bledsoe 1 tithable
George Bledsoe Jr. 1 tithable
George Bledsoe Sr. (son of George and Lucy) 1 tithable
*****
George Bledsoe and Lucy's children:
1. Mary Bledsoe, b.c. 1740, Spotsylvania or Orange Co., VA; m.c. 1758, Orange Co., VA to William Wright [b. 1730, King William Co., VA; d. 1730, Jan 1833, Orange Co., VA; son of John Wright and Frances __]; she d. 1786, Orange Co., VA; buried on Wright farm.
*****
2. John Bledsoe, b.c. 1742, Spotsylvania or Orange Co., VA; he may have gone to KY after 1799;
1782 - Orange Co., VA tax list
John Bledsoe 4 white tithables
1785 - Orange Co., VA tax list
John Bledsoe 2 white tithables
He returned to, or at least bought land in, Spotsylvania County:
23 Dec 1796, Spotsylvania Co., VA - George Sr. and his son Moses witnessed a land deed of George's son John.
8 Jan 1799, Spotsylvania Co., VA - George Sr. and his son Moses witnessed a second land deed of George's son John.
John Bledsoe's children:
The 1782 tax list indicates that he probably had at least three sons.
*****
3. Moses Bledsoe, b.c. 1745, Spotsylvania or Orange Co., VA; m. 10 Dec 1777, St. Thomas Parish, Orange Co., VA to Anne Perry [b. 1750-1760, VA; d. after 1830, Orange Co., VA; buried probably Rhoadsville Baptist cemetery; daughter of William Pierce Perry and Mary Level]; he d. 26 Aug 1811, Orange Co., VA; buried probably on his farm.
1782 - Orange Co., VA tax list
Moses Bledsoe 4 white tithables
1785 - Orange Co., VA tax list
Moses Bledsoe 5 white tithables
1791 - Orange Co., VA tax list
Moses Bledsoe 1 tithable
26 September 1796, Orange Co., VA Road Orders, Page 408
"Moses Bledsoe appointed overseer of the road from the Old Office to The Old Trap & Ordd that he keep the same in Good repair accordg to Law."
23 Dec 1796, Spotsylvania Co., VA - George and his son Moses witnessed a land deed of George's son John.
26 June 1797, Orange Co., VA Road Orders, Page 28
"Moses Bledsoe Appointed Overseer of the Road from the Old Office run to the Old Trap in the Room of John Davis."
1798 - Orange Co., VA tax list
George Bledsoe 50 acres
Moses Bledsoe 225 acres and 11 acres
8 Jan 1799, Spotsylvania Co., VA - George and his son Moses witnessed a second land deed of George's son John.
1810 Orange Co., VA Tax List – taxed 17 Mar
[Each had only one white male age 16 or over]
Moses Bledsoe 1-0-4
Moses Bledsoe, Jr. 1-0-0
1820 census, Orange, Virginia, Page 69
Ann Bledsoe 0-2-0-0-1-0 0-0-1-0-1
One female over 45; b. by 1775 - Ann
One female 25-44; b. 1776-1795 -
Two males 10-15; b. 1805-1810 -
1830 census, Orange, Virginia, Page 297
Ann Bledsoe 0-0-0-0-0-0-1 0-0-0-0-0-0-1-0-0-1
One female 70-80; b. 1750-1760 - Ann
One male 40-50; 1780-1790 -
One female 40-50; 1780-1790 -
The 1785 tax list indicates that Moses probably had at least four sons.
Moses Bledsoe's children:
1) Elizabeth Bledsoe , b. 1780, Orange Co., VA; m. Joseph Johnson [b. 1780; d. 1868]; she d. 1874;
2) Benjamin Bledsoe, b. 1770-1780, Orange Co., VA; m. 23 Oct 1801, Madison Co., VA to Rosanna Yager [b. 1780-1790; d. 1830-1840, Orange Co., VA; daughter of Godfrey Yager and Mary Wayland]; he d. 1885, Orange Co., VA; buried
Godfrey Yager's estate in Madison Co., VA:
1801 Benjamin Bledsoe and Rosanna his wife were given furniture, household items and livestock.
In 1809 they were also given slaves Hannah and child. Total value £138.9.0.
1820 census, Orange, Virginia, Page 72
Benjamin Bledsoe 0-1-0-0-1-0 1-2-1-1-0
One male 26-44; b. 1776-1795 - Benjamin
One female 26-44; b. 1776-1795 - Rosanna
One female 16-25; b. 1795-1804 -
One male 10-15; b. 1805-1810 -
Two females 10-15; b. 1805-1810 -
One female under 10; b. 1810-1820 -
1822 -
Madison Co., Virginia, Will Book 4, page 193 The land of Godfrey Yager was surveyed on 4 June 1822 by John Price. The survey shows his land contains 199 acres, 1 rood and 30 poles. "In obedience to a decree of the County Court of Madison made on the 22nd day of March 1821, in the case of Bledsoe & C vs. Yager & C and hereto annexed & in obedience to the decree of said Court this day made in said suit thereto annexed the undersigned beg leave to report that according to the annexed plat & survey they have allotted to Mary Yager the widow of Godfrey Yager dec'ed one hundred and five acres two roods and five poles as dower of the lands of her late husband Godfrey Yager deceased
28 December 1822, Madison Co., VA Anna Green, Susanna Smith, Howard Bledsoe and wife Julia (Ann), Salathiel W. Yager and wife Ann and Mary Yager of Madison County, Virginia, John Collins and wife Elizabeth, Benjamin Bledsoe and wife Rosa of Orange County, Virginia, Simeon Yager and wife Betsy of Shendandoah County, Virginia, Lewis Cook and wife Polly and Ephraim Yager of Kentucky, heirs and distributes of Godfrey Yager sold 88 ½ acres to Joseph Carpenter for $1770. 23
1830 census, Orange, Virginia, Page 297
Benjamin Bledsoe 0-0-1-0-1-0-0-1 0-0-1-0-2-0-1
One male 50-60; b. 1770-1780 - Benjamin
One female 40-50; b. 1780-1790 - Rosanna
One male 20-30; b. 1800-1810 -
Two females 20-30; b. 1800-1810 -
One male 10-15; b. 1815-1820 -
One female 10-15; b. 1815-1820 -
1840 census, Orange, Virginia, Page 4
Benj Bledsoe 0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-1 0-0-0-1-1-0-1
One male 60-70; b. 1770-1780 - Benjamin
One female 40-50; b. 1790-1800 - Rosanna
1850 census, Orange county, part of, Orange, Virginia
Rosa Bledsoe F 60 Virginia
Mary A Bledsoe F 35 Virginia
Rosana Smith F 25 Virginia
Benjamin Bledsoe's children (probably a couple others):
i. Susan Bledsoe, b. 1802
ii. William Lewis Bledsoe, b. 2 Jan 1807; m. Rachel Frances Perry; he d. 1859, Cabell Co., VA;
iii. Nancy Bledsoe, b. 1810; d. 1902
iv. Mary Anne Bledsoe, b. 1814; d. 1908
v. Jane Bledsoe, b. 1817; d. 1908
vi. Elizabeth Bledsoe, b. 1805; d. 1899
vii. John A Bledsoe, b. 1816;
3) Howard Bledsoe, b. 1789, Orange Co., VA; m. 23 Apr 1810, Madison Co., VA to Julia Yager [b. 17 Jun 1785, Culpeper Co., VA; d. 28 Jun 1878, Madison Co., VA; daughter of Godfrey Yager and Mary Wayland]; he d. 11 Jan 1851, Orange Co., VA;
From Godfrey Yager's estate in Madison Co., VA:
1810 Howard Bledsoe and Julia were given furniture, household goods, a saddle and bridle and a slave girl Harriett, total value £63.13.0.
1819, Madison Co., VA
December 1819 a sale was held of Godfrey Yager's estate, total sales were $933.24¾. Buyers included Mary Yager (widow), Aaron A. Yager, Salathiel W. Yager, Michael Meyerhoeffer (minister of Hebron Lutheran Church), Howard Bledsoe, and others
28 December 1822, Madison Co., VA Anna Green, Susanna Smith, Howard Bledsoe and wife Julia (Ann), Salathiel W. Yager and wife Ann and Mary Yager of Madison County, Virginia, John Collins and wife Elizabeth, Benjamin Bledsoe and wife Rosa of Orange County, Virginia, Simeon Yager and wife Betsy of Shendandoah County, Virginia, Lewis Cook and wife Polly and Ephraim Yager of Kentucky, heirs and distributes of Godfrey Yager sold 88 ½ acres to Joseph Carpenter for $1770. 23
4) Hannah Bledsoe, b. 1789, Orange Co., VA; m. Benjamin Herndon [d. 1880, VA]; she d. 1870, VA; buried
5) John Bledsoe, b. 1790, Orange Co., VA; m. 1st Margaret Perry [1792-1860]; m. 2nd to Nancy Goodman [1796-1860]; he d. 25 Jan 1869, Orange Co., VA;
1820 census, Orange, Virginia, Page 71
John Bledsoe 1-0-0-0-1-0 1-0-1-0-0
One male 26-44; b. 1776-1795 - John
One female 16-25; b. 1795-1804 -
One male under 10; b. 1810-1820 -
One female under 10; b. 1810-1820 -
John Bledsoe's children
i. Anne Bledsoe 1820-1903
ii. Sarah Jane Bledsoe 1827-Unknown
iii. Rachel Bledsoe 1841-1926
iv. Lucinda Bledsoe 1842-1885
v. George Bledsoe 1844-Unknown
6) Moses Bledsoe, Jr., b. 1787, Orange Co., VA; m.c. 1828, Orange Co., VA to Sidney Leancy Wright [b.c. 1808, Orange Co., VA; d. 4 Jun 1889, Orange Co., VA; daughter of William Wright Sr. and Rachel Perry]; he d. 3 Sep 1850, Orange Co., VA; probably buried
1810 Orange Co., VA Tax List – taxed 17 Mar
[Each had only one white male age 16 or over]
Moses Bledsoe 1-0-4
Moses Bledsoe, Jr. 1-0-0
Jul 1832 - Leancy's father named her in his will:
"Eighth, I give to my daughter, Leancy Bledsoe, wife of Moses Bledsoe, some personal estate which she took in possession when she left me. I give to her one negro boy by the name of David to her and her heirs forever as her full share and part of my estate."
1850 census, Orange Co., VA, p. 222:
Moses Bledsoe, 63, Farmer, $167, VA
Sidney, 44, VA
William J., 17, VA
Moses G., 16, VA
Richard L., 14, VA
Martha A., 12, VA
Jessy (male), 6, VA
Verlinda, 8, VA
Rachel Wright, 84, VA
Moses died 3 Sep 1850, Orange Co., VA.
1860 census, Orange Co., VA, p. 604
Catlett Rhodes, 54, farmer, VA son of Lucy Wright and Richard Rhoades
Nancy, 57, VA
Achilles, 15, MO
Lucy W., 20
Malinda Rhodes, 65, VA, $8,800 personal prop.
[next door]
Sidney Bledsoe (female), 54, VA
Vestenda C., 17, VA
Jesse N., 15, VA
[next door]
William I. Bledsoe, 27, VA
Jane F., 32, VA
Milton H., 2, VA
1870 census, Orange Co., VA, Orange Court House, p. 333
[Lives near Richard Rhoads, next door to Peggy Bledsoe, next to John M. Bledsoe]
Sidney Bledsoe, 63, VA
1880 census, Orange Co., VA, Gordon Dist., p. 332
Wm. Bledsoe, 48, VA b. 1832
Jane F., 52, VA
Milton H., 21, VA
Betty, 18, daughter, VA
Sydney Bledsoe, 74, VA
R. Conway, 6, VA
Sidney was from a devote Baptist family and was living with her son William when she died. William is buried at Rhoadsville Baptist cemetery, so I'm assuming she is, too.
*****
4. Howard Bledsoe, b.c. 1747, Spotsylvania or Orange Co., VA; probably never married; he d. 1777, VA, a Revolutionary War soldier.
*****
5. George Bledsoe, Jr., b.c. 1750, Spotsylvania or Orange Co., VA; he d. probably c.1810, Orange Co., VA;
1785 - Orange Co., VA tax list
George Bledsoe (Jr) 5 white tithables
22 June 1789, Orange Co., VA Road Orders, Page 512
"George Bledsoe Junr. is Appointed Overseer of the Road in the Room of Wm. Peacher from the Old Trap to the Tomb Stone."
1791 - Orange Co., VA tax list
George Bledsoe Sr. 3 tithables 50 acres
George Bledsoe Jr. 1 tithable
27 Oct 1794, Orange Co., VA Court Records - George Jr. was ordered to appraise the estate of Daniel Singleton, along with others.
27 Oct 1794, Orange Co., VA Court Records - George Jr. was ordered to appraise the estate of Pierce Perry, along with others.
28 October 1794, Orange Co., VA Road Orders, Page 262
"John Wright appointed road overseer in the Room of Geo. Bledsoe Junr."
28 January 1799, Orange Co., VA Road Orders, Page 111
"On the Petition of Robert Young Wm Quisenbury, George Bledsoe jr James Herndon & George Quisenbury or any three or more of them they being first Qualified are appointed viewers to view an intended way for Roads one beginning about Three Miles below the Orange Springs on the
Fredericksbg road to Run through the Land of Alexr
. McAlester to John Youngs Mill another to begin a little below the first and to run through the Land of Benjn
. Lancaster to Youngs Mill & the other to Begin a little balow Thomas Fattons (?) to run through the Land of (blank) Edgar to the sd. Youngs Mill Ordered that they view the sd. Several ways for roads and make report do the
Court of the Conveniences & inconveniences attending the same accd to Law."
21 Dec 1803, Orange Co., VA - George's son George Jr. sells land that he received from his uncle John Bledsoe's estate.
1810 Orange Co., VA tax list
Moses Bledsoe (son of George and Lucy) 1 tithable
Moses Bledsoe Jr. 1 tithable
John Bledsoe 1 tithable
Howard Bledsoe 1 tithable
George Bledsoe Jr. 1 tithable
George Bledsoe Sr. (son of George and Lucy) 1 tithable
George Bledsoe Jr.'s children:
The 1785 tax list indicates that he probably had at least four sons.
Son of George Jr?
1830 census, Orange, Virginia, Page 297
George Bledsoe 0-0-0-1-0-0-0-1 0-0-0-0-0-0-0-1
One male 50-60; b. 1770-1780 - George
One female 50-60; b. 1770-1780 -
One male 15-20; b. 1810-1820 -
??? widow of a son of George Jr.?
1830 census, Orange, Virginia, Page 297
Susan Bledsoe 0-0-0-0-0 0-1-0-0-0-1
One female 30-40; b. 1790-1800 -
One female 5-10; b. 1820-1825 -
*****
George married about 1735 to Lucy __.
Sources for this biography include:
"The Bledsoe Family in America" by Banks McLaurin, Jr., 1993
ORANGE COUNTY ROAD ORDERS 1750-1800 by Ann Brush Miller
Research Historian Orange County Historical Society
28 February 1750 O.S. Orange Co., VA Road Orders, Page 289
"On the Petition of Benjamin Cave Gent it is Ordered that a Road be cleared from the Main Road by Hardins Quarter to the Pine Stake Church and that the Male Labouring Tithables at the said Hardins Quarter, at Fleets Quarter at Neels Quarter, Edward Hay1ys, George Bledsoe, James
Mitchel, John Hayley, Thomas Gahagon Benjamin Caves Philip Singleton & Daniel Singletons do clear the Same & that Thomas Gahagon be Overseer of the said Road"
October 28, 1756, Orange Co., VA Road Orders, Page 283
"Geo. Bledsoe is Appointed Overseer of the Road in the room of Benja Cave Gent & that he with the Gang that was under the said Cave Clear & keep the same in Repair."
22 September 1757, Orange Co., VA Road Orders, Page 350
"Richard Thomas Gent. Stephen Smith & Stephen I. K. Smith who were appointed & Sworn to veiw the Way from Fredericksburg road by Hardins old field to join the road from Garnets folly to Spotsylvania Line having made their report that the same is a Levell way, it is therefore
ordered that the same be Cleared as laid off by the Veiwers to Spotsylvania to meet the road from the sd. Line to Garnets folly & the following Persons are appointed to assist in the opening & Clearing the said till the same be opened, Vizt. Daniel Singleton, Philip Singleton John Bledsoe, Geo Bledsoe, James Mitchell, Joseph Rennolds Samuel Rice, John Wright, Robert Lancaster the Male
Labouring Tiths. at Fleets Quarter at John Conners at Braxtons Quarter at Thos. Haleys & also the Gang that works on the Road from the Poplar Spring down to the Tomb Stone & with those that work on the roads above Capt
. Caves to the pine Stake Church & that Philip Singleton be overseer of the same."
23 February 1758, Orange Co., VA Road Orders, Page 364
"On the Petition of Joseph Rennolds for a Bridle way from his house the Most Convenientest way into the Road to Fredericksburg Ordered that John Bledsoe George Bledsoe Samuel Rice & John Wright or any three of them being first Sworn before some Justice for this County do Veiw the said Intended way & make report to the Court of the Conveniences & inconveniences Attending the same."
25 October 1759, Orange Co., VA Road Orders, "Page 503
"On the Petition of John Conner Overseer for Miss Mary Willis, that the Way used to Roll Tobacco from the said Willisís plantation on the Mine Run into the Road to Fredericksburgh is Stopped & that he has no way open to Roll or Cart therefore it is Ordered That George Bledsoe
John Bledsoe John Wright and Philip Singleton or any three of them being first Sworn as the Law directs, Veiw the best & Most Convenient way for a Road to be cleared from the said Plantation for Rolling & that they make report to the Court of the Conveniences & inconveniences attending the same."
This land deed is definitely our George:
1760 - Orange Co., VA Deed Book 13, p. 78
"William Bledsoe and wife Elizabeth of Spotsylvania Co., VA deed to George Bledsoe of Orange Co., VA...for natural love and parental affection, 150 acres of land adjoining land of William Bledsoe, Jr. and Benjamin Cave."
May 1763, Orange Co., VA Road Orders, Page 13
"Zachary Allan is Appointed Overseer of the Road from the Tomb Stone down to the fork of the Road by the old Trap in the room of George Bledsoe & that he with the Gang that was under the sd. Bledsoe & also Jos. Wharton & his Son clear & keep the said road in repair."
22 Jun 1767 - Orange Co., VA Deed Book 14, p. 188
"George Bledsoe witnessed a deed when William Cave bought land."
25 Jun 1767 - Orange Co., VA Deed Book 14, p. 190
"George Bledsoe joined by his wife Lucy sold land to William Beckham."
8 Jul 1767 - Orange Co., VA Deed Book 14, p.
"George witnessed a deed when William Cave sold land."
1769 - George is named in his father William Cave's will.
26 Sep 1770 - Orange Co., VA Deed Book 15, p. 250
"George and Lucy sold land to William Cave in Orange Co., VA."
1774, Orange Co., VA - George's brother Aaron founded a Baptist Church:
"North Pamunkey Baptist Church was founded in 1774 by Aaron Bledsoe & Elijah Craig. The early church, which was a one room log structure, was known by several names including: North Fork of the Pamunkey, Bledsoe's Meeting House and North Pamunkey Meeting House. Aaron Bledsoe was pastor for 32 years. During his leadership the church grew from a membership of 20 to 350 in 1806." - See more at: http://www.visitorangevirginia.com/index.php/home/profile/north_pamunkey_baptist_church#sthash.4a64cSti.dpuf
1777 - Son Howard dies as a Revolutionary War soldier.
"Patriots of the Up Country"
p. 115 -
3 Nov 1777, Orange Co., VA - George signed a petition regarding taxation.
p. 114 -
17 Nov 1777, Orange Co., VA - George signed a petition regarding the difficulties of attending militia musters.
p. 121 -
24 May 1779, Orange Co., VA - George signed a petition on dividing the county in half due to its large size.
1782 - Orange Co., VA tax list
George Bledsoe 2 white tithables and 50 acres
John Bledsoe 4 white tithables
Moses Bledsoe 4 white tithables
22 May 1783, Orange Co., VA Road Orders, Page 233
"George Bledsoe Appointed Overseer of the Road from Catlett Conwas Gate to the fork of the Roads below the Pine Stake Church and Ordered that Catlett Conways hands & those Below that Worked under Finlasaon Sleat do Clear & keep the Same in good repair."
26 May 1785, Orange Co., VA Road Orders, Page 316
"Thos. Bohon Appointed Overseer of the Road in the Room of Geo. Bledsoe from Pine Stake Church to Capt Conways Gate."
1785 - Orange Co., VA tax list
George Bledsoe 3 white tithables
John Bledsoe 2 white tithables
Moses Bledsoe 5 white tithables
George Bledsoe 5 white tithables
1789 - Orange Co., VA tax list
George Bledsoe 50 acres
1790 - Orange Co., VA tax list
George Bledsoe 50 acres
27 September 1790, Orange Co., VA Road Orders, Page 49
"George Bledsoe is appointed Overseer of the road from the mine run to the Tombstone and Ordered that the following hands of William Suillivan George Pain, Thomas Faulkner, Peter Mason, Mary Perry, Daniel Singleton, Richard Webb, John Procter, William Grady & Ann Grastyís Do clear and Keep the same in Good Repair Accordg. to Law."
1791 - Orange Co., VA tax list
George Bledsoe Sr. 3 tithables 50 acres
George Bledsoe Jr. 1 tithable
Moses Bledsoe 1 tithable
24 September 1792, Orange Co., VA Road Orders, Page 145
"Ordered that the Sher. pay George Bledsoe 16/ out of the Deposit in his hands for Seting up four Sign Boards."
1792 - Orange Co., VA tax list
George Bledsoe 50 acres
23 April 1793, Orange Co., VA Road Orders, Page 173
"Appointed A List of the Overseers of Roads and Precints
Octr .26th George Bledsoe from the Mine run up to the Tomb Stone."
1793 - Orange Co., VA tax list
George Bledsoe 50 acres
1794 - Orange Co., VA tax list
George Bledsoe 50 acres
27 Oct 1794, Orange Co., VA Court Records - George Jr. was ordered to appraise the estate of Daniel Singleton, along with others.
27 Oct 1794, Orange Co., VA Court Records - George Jr. was ordered to appraise the estate of Pierce Perry, along with others.
4 Apr 1795, Orange Co., VA - George witnessed a land deed.
29 September 1795, Orange Co., VA Road Orders, Page 332
"Gutridge Grasty Appointed Overseer of the Road from the Tomb Stone to the Mine run With the hands that worked Under George Bledsoe."
23 Dec 1796, Spotsylvania Co., VA - George and his son Moses witnessed a land deed of George's son John.
1798 - Orange Co., VA tax list
George Bledsoe 50 acres
Moses Bledsoe 225 acres and 11 acres
8 Jan 1799, Spotsylvania Co., VA - George and his son Moses witnessed a second land deed of George's son John:
"On 8 Jan 1799, Caleb Abell witnessed a deed by William Gholson and Mary, his wife, of Spotsylvania County for 133 acres in Spotsylvania County, Virginia to John Bledsoe of Orange County, Virginia for £120 currency. Witnesses: Moses Bledsoe, Joseph Johnson, Mary Johnson, Caleb Abell and George Bledsoe. Filed: 2 Jul 1799 Book P."
12 Sep 1800, Orange Co., VA - George's brother John names him in his will. Lucy is also still living, as are three sons, Moses, John, and George Jr.:
Orange Co., VA Will Book 4, p. 16
Will of John Bledsoe dated 12 Sep 1800; probated 27 Jul 1801 -
To nephew George Bledsoe, son of my brother George, 20 pounds.
To nephew John Bledsoe, son of my brother George, 20 pounds.
To nephew Moses Bledsoe, son of my brother George, 20 pounds.
To my brother George and his wife, Lucy, $20 annually for life.
To my brother William's sons, John, Joseph, James, Benjamin, William, Abraham, Isaac and Jacob Bledsoe, 20 pounds to each.
1801-1802 - George dies.
21 Dec 1803, Orange Co., VA - George's son George Jr. sells land that he received from his uncle John Bledsoe's estate.
1810 Orange Co., VA tax list
Moses Bledsoe (son of George and Lucy) 1 tithable
Moses Bledsoe Jr. 1 tithable
John Bledsoe 1 tithable
Howard Bledsoe 1 tithable
George Bledsoe Jr. 1 tithable
George Bledsoe Sr. (son of George and Lucy) 1 tithable
*****
George Bledsoe and Lucy's children:
1. Mary Bledsoe, b.c. 1740, Spotsylvania or Orange Co., VA; m.c. 1758, Orange Co., VA to William Wright [b. 1730, King William Co., VA; d. 1730, Jan 1833, Orange Co., VA; son of John Wright and Frances __]; she d. 1786, Orange Co., VA; buried on Wright farm.
*****
2. John Bledsoe, b.c. 1742, Spotsylvania or Orange Co., VA; he may have gone to KY after 1799;
1782 - Orange Co., VA tax list
John Bledsoe 4 white tithables
1785 - Orange Co., VA tax list
John Bledsoe 2 white tithables
He returned to, or at least bought land in, Spotsylvania County:
23 Dec 1796, Spotsylvania Co., VA - George Sr. and his son Moses witnessed a land deed of George's son John.
8 Jan 1799, Spotsylvania Co., VA - George Sr. and his son Moses witnessed a second land deed of George's son John.
John Bledsoe's children:
The 1782 tax list indicates that he probably had at least three sons.
*****
3. Moses Bledsoe, b.c. 1745, Spotsylvania or Orange Co., VA; m. 10 Dec 1777, St. Thomas Parish, Orange Co., VA to Anne Perry [b. 1750-1760, VA; d. after 1830, Orange Co., VA; buried probably Rhoadsville Baptist cemetery; daughter of William Pierce Perry and Mary Level]; he d. 26 Aug 1811, Orange Co., VA; buried probably on his farm.
1782 - Orange Co., VA tax list
Moses Bledsoe 4 white tithables
1785 - Orange Co., VA tax list
Moses Bledsoe 5 white tithables
1791 - Orange Co., VA tax list
Moses Bledsoe 1 tithable
26 September 1796, Orange Co., VA Road Orders, Page 408
"Moses Bledsoe appointed overseer of the road from the Old Office to The Old Trap & Ordd that he keep the same in Good repair accordg to Law."
23 Dec 1796, Spotsylvania Co., VA - George and his son Moses witnessed a land deed of George's son John.
26 June 1797, Orange Co., VA Road Orders, Page 28
"Moses Bledsoe Appointed Overseer of the Road from the Old Office run to the Old Trap in the Room of John Davis."
1798 - Orange Co., VA tax list
George Bledsoe 50 acres
Moses Bledsoe 225 acres and 11 acres
8 Jan 1799, Spotsylvania Co., VA - George and his son Moses witnessed a second land deed of George's son John.
1810 Orange Co., VA Tax List – taxed 17 Mar
[Each had only one white male age 16 or over]
Moses Bledsoe 1-0-4
Moses Bledsoe, Jr. 1-0-0
1820 census, Orange, Virginia, Page 69
Ann Bledsoe 0-2-0-0-1-0 0-0-1-0-1
One female over 45; b. by 1775 - Ann
One female 25-44; b. 1776-1795 -
Two males 10-15; b. 1805-1810 -
1830 census, Orange, Virginia, Page 297
Ann Bledsoe 0-0-0-0-0-0-1 0-0-0-0-0-0-1-0-0-1
One female 70-80; b. 1750-1760 - Ann
One male 40-50; 1780-1790 -
One female 40-50; 1780-1790 -
The 1785 tax list indicates that Moses probably had at least four sons.
Moses Bledsoe's children:
1) Elizabeth Bledsoe , b. 1780, Orange Co., VA; m. Joseph Johnson [b. 1780; d. 1868]; she d. 1874;
2) Benjamin Bledsoe, b. 1770-1780, Orange Co., VA; m. 23 Oct 1801, Madison Co., VA to Rosanna Yager [b. 1780-1790; d. 1830-1840, Orange Co., VA; daughter of Godfrey Yager and Mary Wayland]; he d. 1885, Orange Co., VA; buried
Godfrey Yager's estate in Madison Co., VA:
1801 Benjamin Bledsoe and Rosanna his wife were given furniture, household items and livestock.
In 1809 they were also given slaves Hannah and child. Total value £138.9.0.
1820 census, Orange, Virginia, Page 72
Benjamin Bledsoe 0-1-0-0-1-0 1-2-1-1-0
One male 26-44; b. 1776-1795 - Benjamin
One female 26-44; b. 1776-1795 - Rosanna
One female 16-25; b. 1795-1804 -
One male 10-15; b. 1805-1810 -
Two females 10-15; b. 1805-1810 -
One female under 10; b. 1810-1820 -
1822 -
Madison Co., Virginia, Will Book 4, page 193 The land of Godfrey Yager was surveyed on 4 June 1822 by John Price. The survey shows his land contains 199 acres, 1 rood and 30 poles. "In obedience to a decree of the County Court of Madison made on the 22nd day of March 1821, in the case of Bledsoe & C vs. Yager & C and hereto annexed & in obedience to the decree of said Court this day made in said suit thereto annexed the undersigned beg leave to report that according to the annexed plat & survey they have allotted to Mary Yager the widow of Godfrey Yager dec'ed one hundred and five acres two roods and five poles as dower of the lands of her late husband Godfrey Yager deceased
28 December 1822, Madison Co., VA Anna Green, Susanna Smith, Howard Bledsoe and wife Julia (Ann), Salathiel W. Yager and wife Ann and Mary Yager of Madison County, Virginia, John Collins and wife Elizabeth, Benjamin Bledsoe and wife Rosa of Orange County, Virginia, Simeon Yager and wife Betsy of Shendandoah County, Virginia, Lewis Cook and wife Polly and Ephraim Yager of Kentucky, heirs and distributes of Godfrey Yager sold 88 ½ acres to Joseph Carpenter for $1770. 23
1830 census, Orange, Virginia, Page 297
Benjamin Bledsoe 0-0-1-0-1-0-0-1 0-0-1-0-2-0-1
One male 50-60; b. 1770-1780 - Benjamin
One female 40-50; b. 1780-1790 - Rosanna
One male 20-30; b. 1800-1810 -
Two females 20-30; b. 1800-1810 -
One male 10-15; b. 1815-1820 -
One female 10-15; b. 1815-1820 -
1840 census, Orange, Virginia, Page 4
Benj Bledsoe 0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-1 0-0-0-1-1-0-1
One male 60-70; b. 1770-1780 - Benjamin
One female 40-50; b. 1790-1800 - Rosanna
1850 census, Orange county, part of, Orange, Virginia
Rosa Bledsoe F 60 Virginia
Mary A Bledsoe F 35 Virginia
Rosana Smith F 25 Virginia
Benjamin Bledsoe's children (probably a couple others):
i. Susan Bledsoe, b. 1802
ii. William Lewis Bledsoe, b. 2 Jan 1807; m. Rachel Frances Perry; he d. 1859, Cabell Co., VA;
iii. Nancy Bledsoe, b. 1810; d. 1902
iv. Mary Anne Bledsoe, b. 1814; d. 1908
v. Jane Bledsoe, b. 1817; d. 1908
vi. Elizabeth Bledsoe, b. 1805; d. 1899
vii. John A Bledsoe, b. 1816;
3) Howard Bledsoe, b. 1789, Orange Co., VA; m. 23 Apr 1810, Madison Co., VA to Julia Yager [b. 17 Jun 1785, Culpeper Co., VA; d. 28 Jun 1878, Madison Co., VA; daughter of Godfrey Yager and Mary Wayland]; he d. 11 Jan 1851, Orange Co., VA;
From Godfrey Yager's estate in Madison Co., VA:
1810 Howard Bledsoe and Julia were given furniture, household goods, a saddle and bridle and a slave girl Harriett, total value £63.13.0.
1819, Madison Co., VA
December 1819 a sale was held of Godfrey Yager's estate, total sales were $933.24¾. Buyers included Mary Yager (widow), Aaron A. Yager, Salathiel W. Yager, Michael Meyerhoeffer (minister of Hebron Lutheran Church), Howard Bledsoe, and others
28 December 1822, Madison Co., VA Anna Green, Susanna Smith, Howard Bledsoe and wife Julia (Ann), Salathiel W. Yager and wife Ann and Mary Yager of Madison County, Virginia, John Collins and wife Elizabeth, Benjamin Bledsoe and wife Rosa of Orange County, Virginia, Simeon Yager and wife Betsy of Shendandoah County, Virginia, Lewis Cook and wife Polly and Ephraim Yager of Kentucky, heirs and distributes of Godfrey Yager sold 88 ½ acres to Joseph Carpenter for $1770. 23
4) Hannah Bledsoe, b. 1789, Orange Co., VA; m. Benjamin Herndon [d. 1880, VA]; she d. 1870, VA; buried
5) John Bledsoe, b. 1790, Orange Co., VA; m. 1st Margaret Perry [1792-1860]; m. 2nd to Nancy Goodman [1796-1860]; he d. 25 Jan 1869, Orange Co., VA;
1820 census, Orange, Virginia, Page 71
John Bledsoe 1-0-0-0-1-0 1-0-1-0-0
One male 26-44; b. 1776-1795 - John
One female 16-25; b. 1795-1804 -
One male under 10; b. 1810-1820 -
One female under 10; b. 1810-1820 -
John Bledsoe's children
i. Anne Bledsoe 1820-1903
ii. Sarah Jane Bledsoe 1827-Unknown
iii. Rachel Bledsoe 1841-1926
iv. Lucinda Bledsoe 1842-1885
v. George Bledsoe 1844-Unknown
6) Moses Bledsoe, Jr., b. 1787, Orange Co., VA; m.c. 1828, Orange Co., VA to Sidney Leancy Wright [b.c. 1808, Orange Co., VA; d. 4 Jun 1889, Orange Co., VA; daughter of William Wright Sr. and Rachel Perry]; he d. 3 Sep 1850, Orange Co., VA; probably buried
1810 Orange Co., VA Tax List – taxed 17 Mar
[Each had only one white male age 16 or over]
Moses Bledsoe 1-0-4
Moses Bledsoe, Jr. 1-0-0
Jul 1832 - Leancy's father named her in his will:
"Eighth, I give to my daughter, Leancy Bledsoe, wife of Moses Bledsoe, some personal estate which she took in possession when she left me. I give to her one negro boy by the name of David to her and her heirs forever as her full share and part of my estate."
1850 census, Orange Co., VA, p. 222:
Moses Bledsoe, 63, Farmer, $167, VA
Sidney, 44, VA
William J., 17, VA
Moses G., 16, VA
Richard L., 14, VA
Martha A., 12, VA
Jessy (male), 6, VA
Verlinda, 8, VA
Rachel Wright, 84, VA
Moses died 3 Sep 1850, Orange Co., VA.
1860 census, Orange Co., VA, p. 604
Catlett Rhodes, 54, farmer, VA son of Lucy Wright and Richard Rhoades
Nancy, 57, VA
Achilles, 15, MO
Lucy W., 20
Malinda Rhodes, 65, VA, $8,800 personal prop.
[next door]
Sidney Bledsoe (female), 54, VA
Vestenda C., 17, VA
Jesse N., 15, VA
[next door]
William I. Bledsoe, 27, VA
Jane F., 32, VA
Milton H., 2, VA
1870 census, Orange Co., VA, Orange Court House, p. 333
[Lives near Richard Rhoads, next door to Peggy Bledsoe, next to John M. Bledsoe]
Sidney Bledsoe, 63, VA
1880 census, Orange Co., VA, Gordon Dist., p. 332
Wm. Bledsoe, 48, VA b. 1832
Jane F., 52, VA
Milton H., 21, VA
Betty, 18, daughter, VA
Sydney Bledsoe, 74, VA
R. Conway, 6, VA
Sidney was from a devote Baptist family and was living with her son William when she died. William is buried at Rhoadsville Baptist cemetery, so I'm assuming she is, too.
*****
4. Howard Bledsoe, b.c. 1747, Spotsylvania or Orange Co., VA; probably never married; he d. 1777, VA, a Revolutionary War soldier.
*****
5. George Bledsoe, Jr., b.c. 1750, Spotsylvania or Orange Co., VA; he d. probably c.1810, Orange Co., VA;
1785 - Orange Co., VA tax list
George Bledsoe (Jr) 5 white tithables
22 June 1789, Orange Co., VA Road Orders, Page 512
"George Bledsoe Junr. is Appointed Overseer of the Road in the Room of Wm. Peacher from the Old Trap to the Tomb Stone."
1791 - Orange Co., VA tax list
George Bledsoe Sr. 3 tithables 50 acres
George Bledsoe Jr. 1 tithable
27 Oct 1794, Orange Co., VA Court Records - George Jr. was ordered to appraise the estate of Daniel Singleton, along with others.
27 Oct 1794, Orange Co., VA Court Records - George Jr. was ordered to appraise the estate of Pierce Perry, along with others.
28 October 1794, Orange Co., VA Road Orders, Page 262
"John Wright appointed road overseer in the Room of Geo. Bledsoe Junr."
28 January 1799, Orange Co., VA Road Orders, Page 111
"On the Petition of Robert Young Wm Quisenbury, George Bledsoe jr James Herndon & George Quisenbury or any three or more of them they being first Qualified are appointed viewers to view an intended way for Roads one beginning about Three Miles below the Orange Springs on the
Fredericksbg road to Run through the Land of Alexr
. McAlester to John Youngs Mill another to begin a little below the first and to run through the Land of Benjn
. Lancaster to Youngs Mill & the other to Begin a little balow Thomas Fattons (?) to run through the Land of (blank) Edgar to the sd. Youngs Mill Ordered that they view the sd. Several ways for roads and make report do the
Court of the Conveniences & inconveniences attending the same accd to Law."
21 Dec 1803, Orange Co., VA - George's son George Jr. sells land that he received from his uncle John Bledsoe's estate.
1810 Orange Co., VA tax list
Moses Bledsoe (son of George and Lucy) 1 tithable
Moses Bledsoe Jr. 1 tithable
John Bledsoe 1 tithable
Howard Bledsoe 1 tithable
George Bledsoe Jr. 1 tithable
George Bledsoe Sr. (son of George and Lucy) 1 tithable
George Bledsoe Jr.'s children:
The 1785 tax list indicates that he probably had at least four sons.
Son of George Jr?
1830 census, Orange, Virginia, Page 297
George Bledsoe 0-0-0-1-0-0-0-1 0-0-0-0-0-0-0-1
One male 50-60; b. 1770-1780 - George
One female 50-60; b. 1770-1780 -
One male 15-20; b. 1810-1820 -
??? widow of a son of George Jr.?
1830 census, Orange, Virginia, Page 297
Susan Bledsoe 0-0-0-0-0 0-1-0-0-0-1
One female 30-40; b. 1790-1800 -
One female 5-10; b. 1820-1825 -
*****
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