WILLIAM RUSSELL AND HIS DESCENDANTS.

By Anna Russell des Cognets

Printed For The Family
by
Samuel F. WilsonLexington, Kentucky
December
1884

A large number of the earliest settlers of the colony of Virginia were cavaliers and younger branches of noble English Houses. They brought with them education, influence, and wealth; and shared largely the tastes, feelings, and principles of their order.
The large extent of rich territory to be obtained by patent or purchase off ,red great inducements to the adventurous youth of the mother country; and the granting of this in large tracts to many, established at a very early period all the elements of a landed aristocracy.
The histories of many of the early colonists were doubtless full of interest, and some of them were of a romantic nature; but we are denied the pleasure of obtaining much relating to their early deeds and exploits, as at that period few records were kept, and comparatively little has been preserved for posterity. In founding their families in America they seem to have overlooked the importance of keeping an account of their times and of the chief events of their histories, for the benefit of future generations; consequently, tradition has largely to be depended on in gathering the history of colonial families. It is a matter of great regret that so little can be obtained of the coming of William Russell from England to the Virginia colony. The only account we have says, "He came over with Sir Alexander Spotswood in 1710." Accepting this as authentic, they arrived "within the capes of Virginia in the Deptford Man of War, Tancred Robinson, commander, on

2 William Russell.

the 20th of June, 1710. On the 21st of June they proceeded up the river in the Bedford Galley, Capt. Lee, who landed his boat at Jamestown."*
It has always been understood from tradition that he was a member of the family of Russell, in England represented by the Ducal House of Bedford, but of which particular branch of the family is not known. To ascertain this would require extensive research and investigation in England, to make which is found impracticable at the present time.
The Russell family in England is of great antiquity. It was originally of Normandy, where the name was Du Rozel. Wiffin, in his "Memoir of the House of Russell," says, "It derived its distinctive appellation from one of the fiefs which the first chieftain of that name possessed, anterior to the Conquest of England, in Lower Normandy, in the ancient Barony of Briquebec. In 1066 they occupied the castle and territory of Le Rozel, which was a portion of their appanage, as a younger branch of the Bertrands, Barons of Briquebec; a House the head of which took the title of Sire, being accounted second only in rank to the Barons of St. Sauveur, who were styled Vicomtes of La Manche."
Hugh Du Rozel, who appears to have been the first of the name, was born about 1021.
Soon after the Norman Conquest the Du Rozels crossed the channel into England, where they had lands assigned them in Northumberland, and where the name became anglicized into Russell. Robert De Russell, in 1141, led his company of Knights, and greatly distinguished himself in the battle of Lincoln.
The earliest Coat of Arms of the family in England bore a lion, rampant, gules; on a chief, sable, three escallops, argent.
When William Russell left England for Virginia, he was a young lawyer from. the Inns of Court in London. It may be presumed that he was then twenty-five years of age, so the date of his birth may be placed at about 1685.
Before embarking for America he obtained a commission in the British army, for the old account says, "he was an officer in the British army of occupation and defence in Virginia." How long he held his position in the army is not known. Nothing

* "Spotswood Letters," published by the Historical Society of Virginia.

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has been found relating to him from the year of his arrival to 1735, except the entering of lands patented, and the purchase and transfer of other lands by him in various sections of the colony.
Tradition also tells us that he was one of 'the party of cavaliers who accompanied' Gov. Spotswood in his expedition across the Appalachian mountains, and that, consequently, he was one of the famous "Knights of the Golden Horseshoe." The very meagre records of that period afford us but little of a definite character.
The old account says further, that he had obtained large grants of land front the British 'government. The records of the Virginia Land Office show where many of those grants were located: In 1712 he purchased from Lord Fairfax several thousand acres, which were located in part not far from Germanna, the settlement made by Gov. Spotswood in what was afterwards Spotsylvania county. Many entries of land are found, aggregating over forty thousand acres. In 1730 he purchased two tracts of land; containing respectively ten thousand and six thousand acres, also in Spotsylvania.
The records show that he had ten thousand acres in Orange county, which was formed from Spotsylvania in 1734. Upon a portion of this tract he established his home, which, upon the formation of Culpeper county from Orange in 1748, was thrown into Culpeper. The present location of that portion of his estate is in the southeastern portion of this county, extending into Orange. "It bordered upon the old Wilderness road, and reached to the Rapidan river." A portion of it is mentioned as being on the "north fork of the Rappahannock." Emptying into the Rapidan were two streams' or creeks, which were known at that time as "Big Russell" and "Little Russell Run."
In 1735 two tracts of land in Frederick county, containing respectively 4,950 and 3,650 acres, were patented to him from the King's office, as also other tracts in Augusta.
Belonging to the Church of England, he was an active member of the old colonial church known as "Buck Run," in St. Mark's Parish. The Rev. Mr. Slaughter, in his "History of St. Mark's Parish," says, "Col. Wm. Green and Col. Wm. Russell were made church wardens for the ensuing year" (1756); also that, "on Nov. 26th, 1756, payments were made by the church to

4 William Russell.

William Russell, R. D. Parks, Charles Morgan, and others, for providing for certain poor persons."
The old records in the deed-book of Frederick county show that, in 1756, "William Russell, gentleman, sold 140 acres of land, it being a part of a tract of 4,950 acres patented to him in the King's office the 17th December, 1735." Also, that in 1757 he sold 400 acres, it being a part of a tract of 3,650 acres patented from the King's office the 17th December, 1735. These deeds are signed, "W. Russell" and are witnessed by Mark Hardin, Charles Morgan, jun., John Bradford, and Wm. Green.,
From all that can be learned it is supposed that the marriage Of William Russell with Mary, Henley took place about 1730. Great efforts have been made to find something relating to Mary Henley and her family, but without success. Nothing definite can be obtained connecting her with the families of that name yet in Virginia and Tennessee. Their children were William, Henry, and Katherine.
The death of William Russell occurred, after an illness of only a few days, on the 18th of October, 1757, his age being about seventy-two. It is supposed that he was buried in the church-yard of the,"Buck Run" church, at which old place no tombstones remain to assist, with their inscriptions, the search for history of colonial families.
A copy of his will has been obtained, and is here given as an item of interest to his descendants.
"In the name of God, Amen, I, William Russell of Orange county, being in perfect health and sound memory, and knowing the certainty of death, do make and ordain this to be my last Will and Testament.
Imprimis, I bequeath my soul to God who gave it me, and my body to the earth to be buried by my executrix, in hopes of a sure and perfect resurrection by the merits of our beloved Saviour and Redeemer, Jesus Christ.
Item, I give all the remainder part of my estate, both real and personal, to be equally divided between my loving sons, William Russell and Henry Russell, and my daughter Katherine Russell, and their heirs forever.
Item, I constitute and appoint my loving wife, Mary Russell, executrix of this my last Will and Testament.
Witness my hand and seal this 10th clay of April, 1743.
W. Russell.
Signed, sealed, and pronounced before
Joseph Phillips, Wm. Hollady.

William Russell. 5

Item, I empower my wife to sell any of my lands to pay my debts, either patent lands or entries, or to buy negroes to be divided amongst my said children.
Item, I appoint my sons, William Russell and Henry Russell, joint executors with my loving wife, Mary Russell.
I have erased four lines of the inside bequest.
Witness my hand and seal this 16th day of October, 1757.
W. Russell.
Signed, sealed, and pronounced before
William Watts, W. Ball,
John Dixon Wright."
The account of admitting to probate the foregoing will is also given:
"At a court held for the county of Culpeper on Thursday, the 17th of August, 1758, the last Will and Testament of William Russell, gentleman, dec'd; was exhibited into court by William Russell, one of the executors therein named, and proved in the following manner:
Joseph Phillips swore that he saw the decedent write, sign, seal, and declare the writing exhibited in court to be his last Will, before any erasement was made therein, and that he was then in his perfect senses.
William Green, gentleman, swore that the decedent, two days before he died, requested his deponent to write his Will, telling; him that he had an old, Will by him which he wanted altered; but this deponent could not conveniently undertake it until he returned from Fredericksburg, with which he seemed satisfied; but before lie could return the deceased had died.
William Perfect swore that after Col. Green left, the deceased, two days before he died, ordered his son William to erase several lines in his Will, which being done, he acknowledged it to be his Will, and said he had, ordered his lands to be sold to pay his debts, and the rest of his estate to be divided among his children, and that he was then in his perfect senses.
Thomas Wright swore that the deceased, two days before he died, called upon the deponent to take notice that he had erased several lines in his Will, and that he now desired that it should stand as it was; which was to sell his estate to pay his debts, and what remained to be divided among his three children, and that he was then in his perfect senses.
It is ordered that William Watts, William Ball, and John Dixon Wright be summoned to give farther proof; at the next court held for the county aforesaid, on Thursday the 15th day of February, 1759.
This said last Will and Testament of William Russell, deceased, was fully proved by the oaths of William Watts and William Ball witnesses thereto, and ordered to be recorded.

6 William Russell.

Mary Russell, widow, and one of the executors therein named, came into court, and refused to take the burthen of the execution thereof, and at the same time renounced all benefit and advantage thereof. And at a court held for the same county, May the 17th, 1759, this said last Will and Testament of William Russell, deceased, was sworn to by William Russell, an executor therein named, and, on his motion, certificate is granted him for obtaining a probate thereof in due form, having first entered into bond with security, according to law; liberty being reserved for Henry Russell, the other executor in the said Will mentioned, to join in the probate when he shall think fit.
Teste,Roger Dixon, Cl'k."
Mrs. Russell survived her husband many years. It is quite certain that she died in 1784, as several indications lead to this conclusion. Of their children, the history of William, the eldest, will be given last. Henry, the second son of William and Mary Henley Russell, died unmarried. It is believed that he received his education in England.. He studied medicine; but whether he entered upon the practice of his profession is not known. He was for some time in the West Indies, and appears to have spent much time in, travel. He participated with the Virginia troops in what was known as Lord Dunmore's war, and is supposed-to have been slain in some engagement with the Indians. His fate was never known with certainty.
The following deed, of which the writer has the original, is the only document relating to Henry Russell which has been found. It reads thus:
"Thomas Jefferson, Esq., Governor of the Commonwealth of Virginia, to all to whom these presents shall come greeting:
KNOW YE that in consideration of military service performed by HENRY RUSSELL in the late war, and by virtue of the King of Great Britain's proclamation of 1763, and Lord Dunmore's warrant, there is granted by the said Commonwealth unto William Russell, heir of the said Henry Russell, a certain tract or parcel of land containing two thousand acres, by survey bearing date the twelfth day of July, one thousand seven hundred and seventy-four, lying and being in the county of______ formerly Fincastle, on a north branch of Kentucky river, about ninety-five miles from the Ohio river, and on the south side thereof, bounded as followeth, to-wit: Beginning at cherry tree, walnut, and honey-locust, corner to Alexander Spotswood Dandridge's' land, and with a line thereof, south twenty degrees west, eight hundred poles, crossing the creek to an elm, buckeye, and ash, by a large lying tree; then, leaving said line, south seventy degrees

William Russell. 7

east, four hundred poles, crossing two branches to two honey-locusts and white hickory; north twenty degrees east, eight hundred poles, crossing the creek and a branch to a white hickory and two elms on a rise; north seventy degrees west, four hundred poles to the beginning; with its appurtenances, to have and to hold the said tract or parcel of land with its appurtenances to the said William Russell and his heirs forever.
In Witness whereof the said Thomas Jefferson, Governor of the Commonwealth of Virginia, hath hereunto set his hand, and caused the lesser seal of the said Commonwealth to be affixed at Richmond, on the first day of March, in the year of our Lord, one thousand seven hundred and eighty-one, and of the Commonwealth the fifth.
Th: Jefferson."

Endorsed on this deed is,
"William Russell is entitled to the within mentioned Tract of Land.
John Harvie, Register Land Office."

The tract of land described in the foregoing deed is situated in Fayette county, Kentucky, six miles from Lexington, on the creek of North Elkhorn, then called the north branch of Kentucky river. It was afterwards equally divided between William and Robert Spotswood, sons of William Russell named in the deed.
Katherine, the only daughter and youngest child of William and Mary Henley Russell, married a Mr. Roberts of Culpeper county. Nothing can be found relating to her or any of her descendants. She was living in Shenandoah county, Va., in 1786, and she is mentioned as still living there in 1793, as also her two sons, John and Henry Roberts. Diligent search has been made for her descendants, but no trace of them can be found in Virginia, and it is supposed there are none living.
William, the eldest son of William and Mary Henley Rus­sell, was born in 1735. He received a classical and scientific education at William and Mary College, Williamsburg, Va., the oldest seat of learning in the United States except Harvard University. He had decided to adopt the profession of law, and was ready to enter upon his studies to carry out that design when he returned home from college in the spring of 1755.
That intention was interrupted by his marriage, which took place during the summer, and while he was still one year from completing his majority. In consequence of this, he entirely abandoned the study of law, and settled upon a plantation in the

8 William Russell.

northwestern portion of Culpeper county, on the north branch of Hedgman river, about twelve or fifteen miles from the courthouse.
The maiden name of his wife was Tabitha Adams. She was the daughter of Samuel Adams, of Culpeper county. Her mother's name was Charity Coates. After the death of Mr. Adams, she married Mr. Moore, and their son, William Moore (half brother of Tabitha Adams), was the father of William, Wharton, Thomas, Henley, John, Charles Chilton, and Samuel Moore; also of Mrs. Mary Coates Gray, Mrs. Elizabeth Bright, and Mrs. Nancy Young; all of whom settled in Kentucky and Missouri.
Nothing can be found relating personally to Tabitha Adams* or her family, but her memory has been perpetuated by her name, which is found often repeated in the families of her descendants. It has been found impossible to obtain anything of their family circle at that period. It is, however, shown that William Russell was found early in the field in the defence of the colony.
The Rev. Philip Slaughter found an old document which he inserts in his "History of St. Mark's Parish," from which the following extract is made:
"The names of the following persons appear in a record before me, as having served in a campaign against the French and Indians, about this date (1757) viz: Col.. Robert Slaughter, Lieut. Col. William Russell, Capt. William Brown, Capt. John Strother, Lieut. John Field, Lieut. William Slaughter, Martin Nalle, William Nalle, Charles Yancey, William Lightfoot, Reuben Long, Thomas Slaughter, William Robertson, William Yager, Henry Gaines, Henry Stringfellow, and William Roberts. Nearly all these names have representatives still in Culpeper county, and they are reproduced as items of interest to their descendants."
What special campaign is referred to in the record is not known. It is found also, that "William Russell was Captain of a company of Rangers under Gen. Braddock," which must have been in 1755.
It is shown by the records of Frederick county that in 1763, "William Russell, gentleman, and heir at law of William Russell, deceased, and Tabitha, his wife, sold seventy-three acres of laud, it being part of a tract of 4,950 acres patented to William Russell, dec'd, from the King's office in 1735." Also, that they sold in

* In this family, the name Ta-bi-tha, was always pronounced with the accent on the second syllable, and not according to the more modern pronunciation.

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1757, 390 acres, it being the remainder of a tract of 3,650 acres patented to William Russell, deceased, in 1735.
In 1765, Captain RI Hell was sent by the British authorities on some mission among th Indians in the section of country about where Chattanooga is situated; and was employed nearly twelve months in executing this trust, during which time he endured great hardships among the Creek Indians. While on this tour he kept a journal, which was long preserved, but has unfortunately been lost.
In 1770 he emigrated with his family to southwestern Virginia, and settled temporarily on New river. His design was to go on to Kentucky, where he had valuable lauds.
In the fall of 1773, with the intention of executing this purpose, he proceeded with his family to Castle Woods, on Clinch

river; but from information received, he considered it too dangerous to pass the Wilderness of the Cumberland with his family at that time; so he halted with them, and sent forward his eldest son, HENRY, with some negroes, to make a settlement preparatory to the removal of his family afterwards.
A party under the guidance of Daniel Boone were then ready to attempt to make their way into Kentucky, and Henry Russell, with his negroes, joined them, the whole expedition numbering about eighty persons. The account of what befell them is taken from Flint's "Life of Boone," which is as follows:
"The expedition of Boone to Kentucky commenced its march on the 26th of September, 1773. They all set forth with confident spirits for the western wilderness, and were joined by forty persons in Powell's Valley, a settlement in advance of that on the Yadkin, towards the western country. The whole made a cavalcade of about eighty persons. The principal ranges of the Alleghany, over which, they must pass, were designated as Powell's, Walden's and Cumberland. These mountains, forming the barrier between the old and new country, stretch from the northeast to the southwest. The aspect of these huge piles was so wild and rugged as to make it natural for those of the party who were unaccustomed to mountains, to express fears of being unable to reach the opposite side.
Their progress was uninterrupted by any adverse circumstance, and every one was in high spirits until the west side of Walden's was reached. They were now destined to experience a most appalling reverse of fortune. On the 10th of October, as the party was advancing along a narrow defile, unapprehensive of danger, they were suddenly terrified by fearful yells. Instantly

10 William Russell.

aware that Indians surrounded them, the men sprang to the defense of the helpless women and children. But the attack had been so sudden, and the Indians were so superior in point of numbers, that six men fell at the first onset of the savages. A seventh was wounded, and the party would have been overpowered, but for a general and effective discharge of the rifles of the remainder. The Indians took to flight and disappeared. Had the numbers of the travelers allowed it, they felt no inclination to pursue the retreating Indians. Their loss had been too serious to permit the immediate gratification of revenge. Among the slain was the oldest son of Daniel Boone. The horses and domestic animals accompanying the expedition were so scattered by the noise of the affray, that it was impossible again to collect and recover them. The distress and discouragement of the party was so great as to produce an immediate determination to drop the projected attempt of a settlement in Kentucky, and to return to Clinch river which lay forty miles in their rear, where a number of families had already settled. They then proceeded to perform the last melancholy duties to the bodies of their unfortunate companions, with all the observances which circumstances would allow. Their return was then commenced, and the party retraced in deep sadness the steps they had so lately taken in cheerfulness and even joy."
One of the six who were slain in this encounter was Henry Russell, then seventeen years of age. One of his negro men was also killed.
The account of the massacre in Powell's Valley, in Butler's "History of Kentucky", speaks of the "fate of three boys, the eldest hopes of three families, (Henry Russell, Daniel Boone's son, and another), who were moving with Daniel Boone to Kentucky." Butler says, "they had remained behind to collect some stray horses, when they were surprised by the Indians and slain before the rest of the party could come to their assistance."
From some old records it appears that Captain Russell must have been immediately notified of the casualty in Powell's Valley, for he is mentioned as being there, and assisting in burying the dead.
The death of his oldest son was a terrible blow, and caused him to relinquish all idea of emigration to Kentucky. He owned a tract of 2,400 acres of land on Clinch river, which had been granted to him by the King of England, through the government and council of Virginia. Upon this he established his home, near a settlement called Clinch. It was about twelve miles from Castle

William Russell. 11

Woods Ford on Clinch river, and immediately on the line of travel from Virginia to the Wilderness of Kentucky. That locality is now in Russell county, Virginia.
Captain Russell was soon called into active public service. In 1774, he commanded an expedition against the Shawnees, in southwestern Virginia. He also led his company in the battle of Point Pleasant, on the 10th of October, 1774.* Of this engagement, Collins, in his "History of Kentucky", says:
"This was probably the most severely contested conflict ever maintained with the northwestern Indians; the action continued from sunrise to sunset, and the ground for half a mile along the bank of the Ohio was alternately occupied by each of the parties in the course of the day. So sanguinary was the contest, that blood was found on each of the trees behind which the parties were posted. The Indians, under the celebrated chief, Cornstalk, abandoned the ground under cover of the night. Their loss, according to official report, exceeded that of the Americans, the latter amounting to sixty-three killed and eighty wounded. This report was drawn up by Captain Russell, reported to be the best scholar in camp."
Collins says also:
"The garrison at Kanawha was commanded by Captain Russell, who continued in it until the troops were disbanded in July 1775, by order of Governor Dunmore, who was apprehensive that the post might be held by the rebel authorities."
In 1776, we find Captain Russell promoted to the rank of Colonel, and commanding a regiment of mounted men. He was constantly engaged in repelling the aggressive Indians on the frontiers of Virginia and Tennessee.
Ramsay, in his "History of Tennessee," says:
"Expresses had succeeded in escaping from the besieged fort at Wautauga, and in communicating to the station at Heaton's the dangerous condition in which the siege had involved them. Colonel Russell was requested to give them succor, and five companies were ordered to proceed to Wautauga."
He says further:
"After the attack on Wautauga, a soldier effected his escape and went to Holston, express, for reinforcements. A detachment of one hundred Rangers went instantly forward under the com­mand of Colonel Russell. On their way the Rangers fell in with a party of forty Cherokees, who were busy skinning a beef, at a

* It will be noticed that this was the first anniversary of the massacre in Powell's Valley.

12 William Russell.

deserted plantation fifty miles east of Long Island. Of these, Colonel Russell's men killed five, and took one prisoner who was mortally wounded, and also made prize of twenty rifles belonging to the Indians."
It was during this year that Colonel Russell lost his beloved wife, who died while he was away from home, in the discharge of his soldierly duties. Upon his return to his family he found it a bereaved one. The devoted and affectionate wife and mother was gone, and his house left desolate. It was upon the place near Clinch, that TABITHA ADAMS RUSSELL was buried in 1776, and, though the storms of more than a century have swept over her lone, and perhaps unmarked grave, her name has been venerated, and her memory cherished to the present day.
The Indians were now carrying fire, devastation, and massacre into every settlement, from the remotest cabin on Clinch river to the Seven Mile Ford on the Holston. Colonel Russell considered the locality of his home as now unsafe for his children, and immediately removed with them to a farm which he purchased adjoining the Aspenville tract belonging to Colonel William Campbell, on the middle fork of the Holston, and near the Seven Mile Ford. It was here that they lived during the Revolutionary war. His two eldest sons, William and Robert, remained at home for a short time, but they, too, although mere boys, soon took up arms for defense against the Indians. Upon his eldest daughter, Mary Henley, then but sixteen years of age, devolved the care of the motherless children, as well as the task of rearing her infant sister of six months. In these fearful times it would seem that children became men and women, in bravery and self-reliance, at a very early age.
Among the slaves of Colonel Russell were an old man and his wife, who were faithful and devoted to their master and his family, and to their care and protection he committed his children, while he gave his service to the cause of liberty. Well and faithfully they performed the duties of the trust reposed in them. This family of children, in the absence of their brave were many times menaced by British raiders, but they escaped all harm.
The winter following Colonel Russell received the appointment of Colonel in the regular army, and took command of one of the Virginia regiments. This command he retained to the

William Russell. 13

close of the war, and he was one of the Colonels on the Virginia line, on Continental establishment, brevetted on that account. He participated in the battles of Brandywine, Germantown, and Monmouth; also in the siege of Charleston, where, upon its capture, he was made prisoner of war, and sent on a British prison-ship to one of the West India islands. He was afterwards released on parole, and returned to Virginia, where he was soon exchanged, and again in the field. For information upon these points we are indebted to a communication from Dr. Lyman C. Draper, author of "Annals of Virginia," to Ex-Gov. David Campbell of Virginia, bearing date 1844. He says:
"In regard to the general actions in which Gen. Russell took part during the Revolutionary war, I found nothing in his old letters by which I could tell definitely, except that his regiment formed part of Brig. Gen. Peter Muhlenberg's brigade, which was formed early in 1777, and it was in the opening of that year that Russell joined the army under Washington. Muhlenberg's and Weedon's brigades formed Gen. Green's division at Germantown, the 4th of October following. A letter of Gen. Adam Stephen in Appendix, 5th volume ,Spark's 'Life of Washington,' in speaking of the battle of Germantown, says, 'Colonels Lewis and Russell, of Green's division, behaved gallantly during the action.' Marshall's 'Washington,' vol. 1st, page 169th, says, 'Muhlenberg's and Scott's brigades formed Green's division at Germantown'; hence, I consider the proof conclusive that Gen. Russell took part in the battle of Germantown. It is equally clear to my mind, though the evidence is not quite so luminous, that he participated in the battle of Brandywine. With regard to this, I may add that Judge Johnson's 'Life of Green' states, that Muhlenberg's and Weedon's brigades comprised Green's division at Brandywine. The battle of Monmouth occurred on the 28th of June, 1778, Green's division participating, and I can find no evidence to the contrary, but that Muhlenberg's brigade still formed a part of Green's command; and another fact is, that in 1777, 1778, 1779, Col. Russell was in Washington's grand army. I have not a shadow of doubt about 'Russell's being in the battle of Monmouth, and I have gone into this detail, thinking you might be interested to prosecute the enquiry and give the result; and, for another reason, should I not live to finish what I now have in hand, that you may have the benefit of this hasty research, founded entirely upon the key that Russell's regiment was part and parcel of Muhlenberg's brigade, which fact, as already indicated, I find in a letter of Gen. Russell's, dated March, 1778. In December of 1779 the Virginia line, reduced to 700 men, were detached by Gen. Washington, commanded by

14 William Russell.

Gen. Woodford, to join Gen. Lincoln at Charleston, at which place they arrived April 10th, 1780, and the surrender took place the 12th of May. Col. Russell was, as a matter of course, in Woodford's detachment. None of his letters relating to the Revolution bear (late after 1779, and I cannot tell to what brigade he was attached after he was released from his captivity."
Colonel Russell was with the army at Yorktown, and wit­nessed the surrender of Lord Cornwallis on the 19th of October, 1781. It is much deplored that a full and detailed account of his military services cannot be obtained. Time has waged a fearful war on the memorials of the days "that tried men's souls," and they are everywhere scattered, and many of them destroyed. There are, however abundant evidences that he exhibited great bravery as an officer, and he retired from the service with a most honorable record. Having served through the entire Revolution, he was brevetted to the rank of General, and retired on half-pay for life. For his services he was entitled to large bounties of land, much of which was afterwards located in the Green River section of Kentucky.
Russell county in Virginia was named in his honor; as also, Russellville, Kentucky, which was built upon land originally owned by him. After peace was restored he returned to civil life, and rejoined his family. He was soon elected to the Virginia Senate, of which he was a member many years, and it appears that he was as popular and influential as a citizen, as he had been brave and true to the cause of American Independence.
Regarding his personal traits and appearance, the account we have of him says, "He was a man of very distinguished appearance, being tall and erect in stature. He united to a military bearing, great dignity and manners which were of the courtly order." From all that can be learned of him, he was truly a gentleman of the olden school, "without fear and without reproach."
He had maintained correspondence with his relatives in England till the beginning of the Revolution, at which time they besought him not to take up arms against the British government. While he was a prisoner in British hands, they still wrote, urging him to return to his allegiance to England, but he remained steadfast to the cause of American Freedom.
It is much regretted that all his papers, correspondence, and family records were destroyed in a conflagration several years

William Russell. 15

after his death. Had these been preserved, the writer would probably have found it unnecessary to go beyond them for information which has been anxiously sought.
After his return home, about 1783, he married Mrs. Elizabeth Henry Campbell, widow of Gen. William Campbell, of King's Mountain fame, who died a few weeks before the siege of Yorktown, in 1781. She was the daughter of John Henry, a native of Aberdeen, Scotland; who married Sarah, a daughter of Isaac Winston. Her paternal grandmother was Jane Robertson, sister of Dr. William Robertson, the historian, and cousin of Lord Brougham.
As the home of Mrs. Campbell and the farm of Gen. Russell were adjacent, it seems probable that their acquaintance had been of many years' standing. He was at this time forty-eight years of age. He had numbered twelve children, two of whom, Katherine and Arthelia, had died, it is believed in Culpeper, previous to 1770. Henry, the oldest son, being also dead, there remained nine at that time. The two elder sons, William and Robert Spotswood, were but little at home, being much in Kentucky and Tennessee, looking after surveys and location of land warrants. The eldest daughter, Mary Henley, had already married Captain Bowen; and the second daughter, Tabitha, very soon married Captain Campbell, so that five children constituted his family at the time of his second marriage. These were John, Samuel, Celah, Henley, and Chloe the youngest, then about seven years of age.
Mrs. Campbell had but one child, Sally Buchanan Campbell, then five years old, having previously lost her only son, Charles Henry Campbell. She is represented as being endowed with great superiority of mind and strength of character. There is much evidence that her attachment for Gen. Russell was of unusual strength and warmth, and that their married life was one of perfect harmony and happiness. He was remarkable for his devotional nature, and as husband and father was fond and in­dulgent.
His letters of that period give the only glimpses of their home-life which can be obtained, and they furnish indications of a spirit of harmony and affection pervading the entire family circle.
After their marriage, they lived for several years at Aspenville;

William Russell. 16

the home of Mrs. Campbell, near the Seven Mile Ford, Washington county.
Having a large interest in the salt-works, situated about ten miles from Aspenville, they removed to that place in the spring of 1788, in order more successfully to carry on the manufacture of salt. This became their permanent home, and it was here that Gen. Russell passed the remainder of his life. His journeyings to and from Richmond, while he was a member of the Assembly, he frequently makes allusion to in his letters.
It was in 1788, that he became a convert to the Methodist faith, and united himself with the church. An account of his conversion, together with that of his wife, is given by the Rev. T. Ware, in his "Life," and is as follows:
"Our first conference in Holston was held in May, 1788. As the road by which Bishop Asbury was to come was infested with hostile savages, so that it could not be traveled except by considerable companies together, he was detained for a week after the time appointed to commence it. But we were not idle, and the Lord gave us many souls in the place where we were assembled; among whom were Gen. Russell and lady, the latter a sister of the illustrious Patrick Henry. I mention these particularly, because they were the first fruits of our labors at this conference. On the Sabbath we had a crowded audience, and Mr. Trunnel preached an excellent sermon which produced great effect. The sermon was followed by a number of powerful exhortations. When the meeting closed, Mrs. Russell came to me and said, "I thought I was a Christian, but, sir, I am not a Christian; I am the veriest sinner upon earth. I want you and Mr. Mastin to come with Mr. Trunnel to our house and pray for us, and tell us what we must do to be saved." So we went and spent much of the afternoon in prayer, especially for Mrs. Russell, but she did not obtain deliverance. Being much exhausted, the preachers retired to a pleasant grove near at hand to spend a short time.
After we had retired, the General, seeing the agony of soul under which his poor wife was laboring, read to her, by the advice of his pious daughter, Mr. Fletcher's charming address to mourners, as contained in his "Appeal." At length we heard the word "glory" often repeated, accompanied with the clapping of hands. We hastened to the house and found Mrs. Russell praising the Lord, and the General walking the floor and weep-mg bitterly, uttering at the same time this plaintive appeal to the Saviour of sinners: "Oh, Lord, thou didst bless my dear wife while thy poor servant was reading to her, halt thou not also a blessing for me?"
At length he sat down quite exhausted. This scene was in

17 William Russell.

a high degree interesting to us. To see the old soldier and statesman, the proud opposer of godliness, trembling and earnestly inquiring what he must do to be saved, was an affecting sight. But the work ended not here. The conversion of Mrs. Russell, whose zeal, good sense, and amiableness of character were proverbial, together with the penitential grief so conspicuous in the General, made a deep impression upon the minds of many, and numbers were brought in before the conference closed. The General rested not until he knew his adoption; and he continued a faithful member of the church, and an official member after he became eligible for office, constantly adorning the doctrine of God our Saviour, until the end of his life."
It appears from the account of Mr. Ware, given above, that when Gen. Russell enlisted as a soldier of the cross, he did so with his whole heart and soul. He and his wife also were very zealous in their faith, and consistent in their devotions. Family prayers were held night and morning, and they frequently had preaching at their house. Bishop Asbury was a frequent and favored visitor, and he says in his Journal, "General Russell's was one of the harbors of rest for the weary Methodist preacher."
It is found that within a year or two from that time, all their household, both white and black, were converted and brought into the church.
Gen. Russell had by his second marriage four children. The eldest, Henry Winston Russell, was born in 1784, and died in infancy. Elizabeth Henry Russell was born in 1786. Patrick Henry Russell and Jane Robertson Russell (twins) were born in 1788. The former died when a few weeks old, leaving only the two little daughters, of whom he writes as "Betty Henry" and "Jenny."
Some of the letters of Gen. Russell, written about that time, are here inserted. They will certainly be read with interest by his descendants, having been written nearly a hundred years ago, and all who are mentioned in them having long since passed away.
It must be borne in mind that they are merely family letters, from father to son. He could little foresee that, after a century had passed, they would be eagerly read and treasured by his great-grandchildren.
The following letter, from Gov. Patrick Henry to Robert Spotswood Russell, will be first given, as possessing interest in its relating to the price of land in Kentucky at that time.

William Russell. 18

Richmond, Nov. 21st, 1784.
Dear Sir:—Your Father has informed me that you have located my 2,000 acres of land on the warrants he had on Green river. I would wish to have it surveyed as soon as possible, but fear the troublesome times will prevent this Fall. However, if it is possible to accomplish it, I shall be much pleased at it. I learn that the agreement was for me to pay £20 per thousand acres; one half of the land as I may choose, locating, &c., &c. This I hereby certify, and will fulfill it on your certificate. I send you two half Joes for the present, and from my money being scarce I send no more.
I shall acknowledge it a great favor if you will exert yourself to have the survey run on good land, and soon, and shall endeavor to return the obligation whenever it may be in my power.
I am, Sir, yr. obt. ser.,
P. HENRY.

To Robt. S. Russell.

In explanation of the term "half Joe" in the foregoing letter of Mr. Henry, Mr. Richard Brock, Sec. Va. Historical Society, says, "The term 'half Joe' was a brief and familiar one in colonial days for half Johannes, a gold coin of Portugal, so named from one of its Royal Johns. The value of the coin in Virginia, prior to the Revolution, was £5 15s. in Virginia currency; consequently the value of the 'half Joe' was £2 7s. 6d."*

The following is the first in date, of the letters of Gen. Russell to his son Robert:
Aspenville, Feb. 4t11, 1785.
My Dear Son:—By a letter which your loving mamma got the other day from your brother, Billy Russell, we learned that you were well, and gone to the Cumberland Falls. Since, by a traveller from Kentucky, we learned that you were sick at Mr. Campbell's, who had not moved from Dick's river to Elkhorn, as we understood by your brother Billy's letter. We cannot wholly believe in the account last received, but hope in God that you are perfectly well at this time.
Our loss in your dear little brother, Henry Winston, together with your grandmamma's death, sets hard with us, your parents, as you must imagine, but we rest assured that our loss in them has fixed their eternal gain in unalterable glory. A visit from our dear children in Kentucky this spring, would cheer their parents in affliction, and promote in them some days of happiness. As Johnny must come in immediately to school, I wish much, as does your clear mamma, to see you and Billy with him. Perhaps

* Transcribers Note: 5 pounds 15 shillings and 2pounds 7shillings 15pence [ penny ]

19 William Russell.

you can make it convenient to visit us by the April court, the time of our annual election.
I am expecting here daily Mr. Harry Lines on his way to Kentucky. He has a letter from Mr. Henry (the present. Gover­nor) to you about his land, and I hope you will endeavor to comply with his wishes. The two half Joe, he gave me for you I will send by Mr. Innes, your Attorney General for Kentucky.
I have enclosed to you a memorandum, made for me by Mr. George May, which I trust will enable you to have the land surveyed on Green river, formerly entered by Mr. May for me, which you will have effected according to the location, unless a visible alteration can be made in safety. I think he told me I might join the river if I chose. Mine is the oldest entry thereabouts; consequently the best.
I shall remit all other business now, and rest it at your discretion; and the sooner I can see you when your winter's work is done, the better. Mr. Porter has a horse in care of B. Cooper, that he wishes Johnny to ride in; perhaps he will answer; if not, I trust you to furnish him with one, among you.
We are all well at present. Celah's eye is fast recovering. Our little children go prettily to school, and come on well under a promising and prudent master, who is acquainted with the Latin, and has Sammy closely at his grammar. Let us hear from, you whenever it is possible.
We join in prayers and best wishes for the health and righteous prosperity of all our dear children. May God preserve us all to meet in safety, is the present wish of your ever affectionate father,
W. RUSSELL.
Robert S. Russell, Cumberland.

The allusion in this letter to the death of "your grandmamma" without doubt refers to Gen. Russell's mother, Mrs. Mary Henley Russell. There are no records which give the date of her death, but all indications lead to the conclusion that this reference is to her.
The devotional and rather pious tone of all his letters gives evidence of religious feelings and influences. The Rev. Mr. Ware speaks of him as the "proud opposer of godliness," before his conversion to the Methodist faith, but he could not have used that expression in its fullest sense. Gen. Russell had been reared in the Church of England, as it was in Virginia, and although he may not have been a communicant of the church, he had doubtless received from his parents some religious training. The afflictions through which he had passed, the tragical and shocking

20 William Russell.

death of his eldest son, the loss of his wife the companion from his youth, together with the dangers which had menaced his fancily during these troubled times, without doubt caused him to feel, and to be ever mindful of a higher power that directs the destinies of man.

Aspenville, Feb. 20th, 1785.
My Very Dear Son:—I forwarded letters, a few days ago, to all my children in Kentucky and Cumberland, by Captain Madi­son (first intended by Mr. Harry Innes), which I hope you will get in safety, but in case a miscarriage might happen, I will mention some things therein containd.
I enclosed to you a note of instruction, given me by Mr. George May, which I hope will enable you to have our land, entered by him, surveyed on the north side of Green river (Indian Camp Creek), and hope you will effect it as soon as it can be clone with safety.
Mr. Henry's letter I still expect will come by him, as he has it, and I intend sending by him the two half Joes mentioned in my last letter, which I have kept, supposing him a safer conveyance.
I want Johnny so very much to go to school, and I as much want to see you and Billy also. A. traveller coining this way tells me that he saw you the north side of Kentucky, just after you started for Cumberland. He wore white, faced with blue, perhaps a Pennsylvanian; and he added that you had just recovered from an illness. I am concerned, fearing the fatigue and cold which you will have to undergo on your journey may seriously affect your health, but I trust in God's mercies to keep you safe through all your toils, and that we may meet again.
I need not say more about our hinds; your prudence must direct you. I am prone to hope that your particular attention and desire will hasten your dispatch through the business, and the sooner I can see you again the sooner we can hasten farther necessary steps regarding it. I have the strong hope of seeing you some time in March.
I have not yet got any kettles ready for the salt-works, owing to the furnace breaking up last fall just as one was cast. They are now about finished, and I expect to send the wagon down this month. Should you be prevented from coming as soon as I expect you, let me know it immediately, and when I may expect you.
Since writing the above, Mr. Innes has arrived. He has the letters I wrote from Richmond, also Mr. Henry's, to which I refer you and your brother Billy.
We are happy to get your last letter dated Gilbert's Creek, and hope by the time this reaches Kentucky you will have returned

William Russell. 21

from surveying; and according to your letter will expect you as soon as possible again to Holston.
I send by Col. Innes the two half Joes of the Governor's. I also send you four guineas, which will answer your wishes to pay the surveyors you have with you, which you will apply to Mr. Innes for, when he arrives. He will be at Lexington soon after he gets to Kentucky.
We are all well, and join in best wishes for your prosperity and success. Adieu, my very dear son,
W. RUSSELL.

Robert S. Russell.

P. S.—Present our best love to Mr. Campbell and dear Tabby, to whom we will write the next opportunity, but cannot now for want of time.

Aspenville, Feb. 12th, 1787.
Dear Son:—Our wagon has at length got between Jacob Anderson's and home, and I expect it to reach here by afternoon with all safe. We are all tolerably well at present. I have had a very acute stroke of pleurisy lately, but through mercy your mamma and myself are both recruiting again. We have just had verbal accounts from Kentucky that your brother Billy is married to Miss Price. It is to us all here very strange and unexpected news. Perhaps the next arrivals may afford more certain information on the subject.
I pray you hasten home as I much need you. Your mamma, brothers, and sisters all join in love and best wishes, hoping to see you by the last of the month. Your loving father,
W. RUSSELL
. Robert S. Russell, Shenandoah, Va.
I send this by Captain Madison.

By way of explanation it may be stated that his son, Robert, was, at the time the above letter was written, in Shenandoah county, paying his addresses to Miss Deborah Allen; and from the nature of his mission, it may reasonably be presumed that he did not make his appearance at home, as expected by the family, at the end of the month. The sequel proves that he did not, for his marriage with Miss Allen took place in May.

Aspenville, June 8th, 1787.
My Dear Son:—I have only a moment to inform you by Captain Barby,* that we have received Sammy's letter with the

* As there were but few post routes in Virginia at that time, mail facilities were very limited, consequently "opportunities" for sending letters were eagerly watched for and rarely neglected.

22William Russell.

happy intelligence of your marriage with my dear daughter, Deborah, on which happy circumstance your mamma and myself beg to congratulate you both, and present our best wishes to Col. Allen's family, and we pray God to bless you one and all.
I must pray you and our dear daughter to visit us at once, and come prepared to stay till your mamma and myself go down the country to Mr. Henry's and return. It is the most urgent business that compels us to go. We how you will not fail to come. I wish you to see Captain Barby, at Colonel John Slaughter's.
Our best wishes to all. Adieu.
W. Russell.
Robert S. Russell.

Aspenville, Nov. 24th, 1787.
My Dear Son:—On last evening there arrived here ,a Mr. North from Kentucky, who is a half brother of Col. Todd. By him I forward some letters from your brother Billy's and Mr. Campbell's families to you and your dear wife. The letters were sent in by Mr. Patrick Watson, who brought others to us at the same time, from which we learn that all friends are well in Kentucky. We are all here in usual health, and trust that this maw find you and dear Debby well, as also Col. Allen's family. Mr. North being in haste, and I having a bad candle, must put off the news of this quarter for Johnny's coming, as we still expect he will visit you about Christmas.
The present hurry, and the noise of the family being up, must excuse for their not writing now. I. have had no letter from you since you left here, but hope to hear soon.
I hardly expect Billy in this winter, nor do I expect that we will move to the salt-works till spring.
We all join in much love and best wishes and prayers for you and dear Debby, and all friends.
Your affectionate father,
W. Russell.
Mr. Robert S. Russell, Shenandoah, Va.

Aspenville, Feb. 5th, 1788.
My Dear Son:—I write to inform you that we are all well, and that your brother, Johnny, is permitted to attempt his journey once more, which he has so long most earnestly wished to undertake. The cause of his not coming sooner had almost proved a fatal hindrance, but lie will inform you of it.
We received yours and dear Debby's affectionate letter by Captain Hayes, and it was most welcome to all the family.
Your brother Billy informs us that we need not look for him

William Russell. 23

till June, and he adds that his and Mr. Campbell's families were preparing letters for us all, which have not yet come to hand. We will forward them to you the first opportunity after they arrive.
Your brother Johnny's desire to see you, his sister Debby, and other friends, leads him to attempt his journey rather badly equipped, and the pleasing prospect before him must be a substitute for all other wants.
I have lost all this winter at salt-making, owing to the very inclement season. I have things much better fixed than when you were here last. I have completed a large cistern which is expected to answer a valuable purpose, which your brother can explain to you.
There being no court last month, I failed in getting the power of attorney acknowledged and forwarded by your brother, but shall aim to send it by spring.
I find Virginia and all the continent much puzzled about the new Constitution, as is the case here with us. I think there will be a great majority of my own opinion, which after due reflection is decidedly against it, as it is in its nature most dangerous to the liberties of ,man. I wish it to be amended at all events. The state of your mamma's health prevents me from offering my abilities in opposing it, or rather, advocating its amendment. I wish the consequences may not produce much confusion, and it is to be hoped that all who have the good of posterity at heart, will mature all difference of opinion with the utmost calmness.
Let me hear from you by Johnny, whose return I hope will be by the first of April. With much love to You and dear Debby,
I am your affectionate father,
W. Russell.
Mr. Robert S. Russell., Shenandoah, Va.

Prince Edward County,* Jan 7th, 1789.
My dear son:—I now write by your brother Sammy and sister Celah, both of whom, instead of your mamma and myself, are now to set out to visit you, dear Debby, and other friends in that quarter.
The nature of my business here with Mr. Henry, and the urgent necessity of my return to Holston, of which Sammy can inform you, will in your good sense excuse us for deferring our visit to you, but it is our intention that it shall come to pass ere long.
Write me by Sammy and Celah, and will write you again

* This letter was written at the Hon. Patrick Henry's, his wife's brother's, who at that time lived in Prince Edward county.

24 William Russell.

when I get home, for your satisfaction before they leave you. Poor little Bettie Henry has been sick twice since she came down the country, but we shall try to set out homeward to-morrow.
We all send love to you and dear Debby. Kiss the grand­child for us. Adieu.
Your affectionate father,
W. Russell.
Robert S. Russell, Shenandoah, Va.

Stone House, Feb. 8th, 1789.
My Dear Son:—We have at length arrived all safe at this place, but have been much detained on the way by bad weather and the indisposition of Betty and Jenny. I learn that your brothers at home are well, as also our friends in Kentucky about two weeks ago. I hope that Sammy and Celah have ere now arrived safe at your house, and among their friends in your quarter. As I shall only write to you now,
I must request that you will hurry them in due time to visit all friends with you, so they can be at home by the last week in March or first in April. They must call and rest a few days at Capt. Madison's* on their way home. I hope by them to learn fully what are your intentions respecting Kentucky, and if you have made any provisions towards building there. It is my intention to visit our friends in Shenandoah, but I must get a stage before I travel with my family again. Your mamma and all of us want very much to see clear Debby and the little stranger. Kiss the dear infant for us. We join in love to all.
Adieu my dear son,
W. Russell.
Robert S. Russell, Shenandoah, Va.

North: Garden Salt-Works, Sept. 13th, 1789.
My Dear Son:—I received your welcome letter at our last court, the 8th inst., and was sorry to learn that your dear little daughter was so much indisposed, which may prevent the visit of dear Debby and yourself to us this fall. We hope in God that her recovery may be so speedy and so certain, that we may still hope for the pleasure of seeing you here. I have to add and entreat you that, if there is any possibility of doing so, you will be here by the second clay of October, on which day your mamma and myself expect the greatest trial with Col. C ______ at the District Court at the Court-House, that ever took place at our

*Capt. Madison was the brother-in-law of Mrs. Russell, having married her sister, Susanna Henry. Their house was on the line of travel to Shenandoah and Culpeper. and was a most agreeable place for the members of the family to stop and visit when on those long and fatiguing journeys.

William Russell. 25

general court, or may ever occur hereafter. * * * * * * * * * * * * * I expect that your intimacy with John Barr while at the Salt-Works may enable you to throw some light upon our charges against him, so that, should you come with or without dear Debby, it might favor our undertaking. I am led to hope that moderate traveling and change of air with the dear infant, might greatly help it, as it did our dear little Jenny last winter.
I expect from Billy's letter, which I received the same day I got yours, that he will be here to-night or to-morrow, and expect to detain him till after the District Court. He intends returning by land through the wilderness, and to take with him some cattle and sheep if he can purchase them here. Pray give me an immediate answer whether we may expect you or not.
I expect to set out for the Assembly about the tenth of October, and will endeavor then to decide on coming your way, which I wish to do if possible.
Please make my own, and your mamma's, and the childrens' best wishes to dear Debby, and to Col. Allen's family.
May the Lord in mercy recover your dear baby, and restore it to perfect health and your lasting comfort.
Your affectionate father,
W. Russell.
Robert S. Russell, Shenandoah, Va.

Richmond, Va., Nov. 11th, 1789.
My Dear Son:—Having failed in one or two opportunities which Mr. Williams promised to furnish, I hope this may be forwarded by him, as he sets out to-day or to-morrow to Culpeper. I wrote you about the time of leaving home, informing you that Captain Madison had been appointed guardian of your sister Sally B. Campbell, instead of Arthur Campbell, much to the satisfaction of all your mamma's friends. I left your brother Billy at my house, who, together with your sister Celah, was to set out for Kentucky two days after I left them. I have not heard from your mamma or them since I came here.
I much wanted to call on you and dear Debby on my way down to this place, but feared it impracticable to be attempted. I have a particular desire to see you here before I set out home, and should be very glad if you could ride down about the last of this month, at which time I expect Sammy or Johnny will be here, and Kirk with our wagon to take up supplies for the next year. You would not lose more than ten or twelve days at most, and would afford me much satisfaction. Don't be backward about traveling materials; I can furnish while here, and, should you find it possible, do come about that time.

26 William Russell.

It is thought that the Assembly will not sit longer than the 15th of December, and whether it rises then or not I intend to start homeward about that time, to escape if possible the severity of cold travelling. The Assembly has done nothing yet. This contagious influenza, which none of us have escaped, has kept so many of the Senate sick, that we have not made a quorum these two weeks. It is nothing more than a violent cold. From careful living mine was light.
Your mamma and myself, God willing, wish to visit you and dear Debby next fall on my way down here, but as I hope to see you before I go home, will say more on that head when together. If opportunity offers, and you cannot come, write me as early as possible.
My affectionate regards to you, dear Debby, and Col. Allen's family. Kiss the little girl for me. I hope she is hearty by this time. May God preserve you all in health and safety is the ar­dent prayer, my dear son, of your
Ever affectionate father,
W. Russell.
Robert S. Russell, Shenandoah, Va.

Washington Court-House, April 15th, 1790.
My Dear Son:—I have just opportunity by Col. Brown to forward you a few lines to la you know that we are all in usual health at present; but we have lost poor Adam, who was killed by the fall of a tree in a late storm.
Your brother Johnny started from this place yesterday for Kentucky, with the expectation of seeing your sister Celah married to Mr. Robert Wilson, of Maryland. Mr. Wilson has purchased a part of Mr. Meredith's land, and has settled upon it, within three miles from Billy Russell's. I have had a letter from him, also one from Billy, on the occasion. I have left it altogether to my children in Kentucky. Billy says he is fond of him.
I will write you again the first opportunity, and you will excuse want of time at present. My best wishes and prayers attend you and dear Debby.
I remain your affectionate parent,
W. Russell.
Robert S. Russell, Shenandoah, Va.

North Garden Salt-Works, July 13th, 1790
My Dear Son:—We were favored with letters from you two

William Russell. 27

or three weeks past, and rejoiced to find that you and dear Deb­by, with your little ones, were then well.
We are all tolerably well at present, though your mamma is somewhat complaining.
We have lately been favored with accounts from Kentucky by Johnny, who through mercy has just returned home. He brings us accounts of your sister Celah's marriage with Mr. Robt. Wilson, late of Maryland. Her brothers and sisters are well satisfied, and I hope for the best also. Johnny Russell thinks Celah has done very well.
Your brothers and sisters here enjoyed good health this summer, and little Jenny and Betty grow finely. Sally Campbell and Chloe come on a little.
Crops in this section are very promising, but it appears to be a brittle harvest. I expect to cut a little timothy some time hence. Notwithstanding our scarcity of hands, we hire, and make more salt than ever, arriving at last to about five bushels per day when the water is not hurt by rains; and we have made more than six bushels, on which success your mamma lost some little bets.
We have still the desire to visit you and friends in Shenandoah this fall, but cannot decidedly say how it will be. I think the sures