Alexander J. Kerr was born in Londonderry County, Ireland in 1730, and died prior to Nov 21, 1807 in Lack Township, Tuscarora Valley, Mifflin County (now southern Juniata County), Pennsylvania about the age of 77.
He was married in Londonderry County, Ireland.
He arrived in Philadelphia in 1783 and moved that same year to Franklin County, Pennsylvania.
A letter written by John N. McElroy of Ottumua, Iowa on Oct 23, 1873 to his mother Esther McElroy states, "The first (ancestor we have a record of) is Alexander J. Kerr who had 3 sons, Robert, Alex, and William and six girls." If Alexander named his sons after his father, his father-in-law, and himself, then his father would have been Robert Kerr, and his father-in-law's first name would have been William
The 1790 Census for Lack Township, Mifflin County, Pennsylvania, (Roll 8, page 139), reflects Alexander Karr as the head of household with the following members: two males under 16 (William and Alexander, Jr.), and six females (Martha, Esther, Sara, Nancy, Elizabeth, and his wife). Listed on the same census page were Thomas Karr and John Karr.
The 1800 Census for Lack Township, Mifflin County, Pennsylvania, (Roll 37, page 471), reflects Alexr Kerr as the head of household with the following members: one male over 45 and one female between the ages of 16 and 26. Listed on the same census page were George Kerr, Thomas Kerr, John Kerr, and William Kerr as heads of households.
An indenture dated Dec 1803 states, "Alexander Kerr of Lack Township sold a tract of land in Lack Township he bought from John Harvey 3 June 1790 to his son William Kerr for two hundred pounds. William has lived on this land and is now removing from it. Tract bounded by James McConnel, the Mountain, William Neely, Alexander Kerr. Witnesses Thomas Barrett, Gilbert Kennedy." McConnel, Neely, and Barrett were also listed on the same 1800 census page with Alexander Kerr.
Alexander J. Kerr, Senior, wrote his will on Nov 18, 1806. It was proved Apr 20, 1808 and recorded in Will Book 2, page 96, on file with the Register-Recorder in Mifflin County, Pennsylvania. The file number 2185 contains the will, filed on Apr 20, 1808, the appraisement filed Apr 21, 1808, the vendue list dated Apr 21, 1808, and the executor's account, dated Oct 9, 1815.
The will reads, in part:
"In the name of God Amen. I Alexander Kerr of Tusquerora Valley, Mifflin County and State of Pennsylvania being frail in body though sound In mind and Judgment, do make this my last Will & Testimoney in the manner as follows;
"first Discharging al my - Lawfull debts it is my wish to have the freehold which I now hold in this Valley, or any other which I may hold At my decease with all my Stock and personal property disposed of to the best advantage and divided in Equal Proportions among my children at present nine in number, Viz:
"Mary Kerr (alias Scott) now living in Canamugh-Settlement one ninth, Robert Kerr of Path Valley one ninth, Martha Shannon near Messerburg (?) one ninth, Esther Kerr one ninth, Sarah Kerr (alias Watt) one ninth, only there is fifteen pounds with interest from the time she Was Married until my Decease to Come out of her share, for a Mare she got, - William Kerr one ninth, Alexander Kerr Junr of Washington City one ninth, Nancy Kerr one ninth. Elizabeth Kerr one ninth.
"only those that May not be Married of my family at my decease; is to get their bed and beddoathes their Wheell and saddle-
"Before the Above Division takes place and in Case of Death of any of them prior to such Distribution, his, her, or their share, to be divided Equally among the Survivors, and not to decend to the Heirs of any of the Deceassed. And for my friend and Neighbour, and my Sons Robert Kerr, and Alexander Kerr, to be my Executors to take Charge of affairs, and have this my Last Will and testament Executed with Justice, and all other wills that my have been made prior to this to be Null and void this done in Tusquerora Valley this Eighteenth Day of November In the year of our Lord One Thousand Eight hundred and six -- Witness my hand and seal -- Alexander Kerr.
"Signed in the prescence of us - James. N. Connell,
Jno Morrow
"Codicil to the foregoing Will) In Consequence of an agreement having been Entered into between Me, and my son William Kerr, Within mentioned, bearing date the seventeenth of December one Thousand Eight hundred for his getting a Certain part of the land I then held in fee simple in Consideration of his paying off all the Debts then due by me to sundry persons, which land he got and in which I Conceive the said William Kerr to have an advantage fully Adequate to hispart A Proportion of all my Effects, my Will and Desire therefore is, that the said Advantage shall be Considered by the said William Kerr, or his heirs as an Equivelent in full, for his one ninth of My Effects as mentioned in the within Will, and that the said William Kerr, or his heirs shall not be Entitled to anypart of the Residue of my Effects, but that the said Residue shall be divided Equally among the remainder of my Children (Eight in number) or in Case of the Death of any of Them to their Offspring, and in Case of any of them Dieing without Issue, then his or her part shall be Divided Equally among the Survivers --Tusquerora Valley this Eighteenth Day of November In the year of our Lord one thousand Eight hundred and six Witness my hand and seal -- Allexander Kerr"
The inventory of the estate, conducted on Nov 21, 1807, included the following (values given in pounds, shillings, and pence):
"one black cow, 3/15/0; one black and white cow, 3/0/0; one heipher, 1/10/0; three calves, 2/5/0, sixteen sheep at Each 0/9/4½; four hogs in a pen, 2/5/0; two sows and 15 pigs, 3/0/0; one sea chest & contents, 1/10/0; one sea chest and contents 0/11/3; one silver watch, 1/10/0; one hand saw, 0/3/9; one cupboard, 0/10/9; one table, 1/2/6; one Dozen Pewter, 1/2/6; one Large Pewter, 0/3/9; two candlesticks, 0/3/9, one bake Kettle, 0/9/4½; one pot, 0/7/6; one small Joyhooks, 0/3/9; one Bake Kettle, 0/5/7½, six Chairs, 0/10/0; three table spoons, 1/17/6; five small spoons, 0/18/9; one looking glass, 0/1/10; two Kegg, 0/3/9; two barrels, 0/11/3; two Keggs, 0/3/4; one open Ended barrel, 0/3/9; one dough trough & barrel, 0/3/9; four open Ended barrels, 0/11/3; one Large Bible, 0/5/7½; one Dictionary, 0/5/7½, one small Bible, 0/1/10½; one Confession of faith, 0/2/3; Best match & holy war, 0/4/6; Dickeson and Willeson, 0/3/9; sacramental Catechism, 0/1/18; two forks, 0/2/3; one log Chain, 0/3/9. .
On Dec 3, 1807, many of these items, plus others, were sold to family members and neighbors. Among those items going to Robert Kerr were one large buckle, 0/1/7, one sow and four pigs, 0/15/3; one Wether and lamb, 0/18/11; one large Ewe and lamb, 0/15/0; one Ewe and Lamb, 0/11/3; one large sheep & lamb, 0/19/0; one Chest, 1/17/6; one barrel, 0/6/9; Willison on the Catechism, 0/5/0; one large Bible, 1/0/7½; and one Crook, 0/4/1. Others buying goods included William Brice, Alexander Kerr, John Wilson, William Kyle, Esther Kerr, William Neily, John Layon, Edward McMullen, Rebecca Arbuckle, Nancy Kerr, Thomas Barret, and Joseph Swan. Total sold came to 36 pounds, 5 shillings, and 6 pence, equal then to $96.73.
On Oct 1, 1811, the land that Alexander Kerr passed on to his children in his will was sold to Peter Miller and was recorded in Mifflin County, Pennsylvania Deed Book 0, pp 12-13. Children and their spouses listed were Joseph Scott and Mary, living in Armstrong Township, Indiana County, Pa; Robert Kerr and Agnes, living in Fannet Township, Franklin County, Pa; Martha Shannon and Elizabeth Kerr, both living near to Mercersburg County, Pa; James Peoples and Esther, living in Mettle Township, Franklin County, Pa; and Hugh McPherson and Agnes, living in Center County, Pa.
The land was sold for $1160.25, which was paid in full, and consisted of 118 acres, "lying and situate in Lack Township Mifflin County and State afforesaid on which Alexander Kerr deceased formerly lived adjoining lands of William Neely, William Kerr, James McConnel, and the Tusquerora Creek."
He was buried in Franklin County, Pennsylvania.
The childen of Alexander J. Kerr were:
i Mary, m. Joseph Scott, d. 1811
*ii Robert, b. ca. 1759, m. Agnes Elder in Jun, 1784, d. Jun 13, 1817
iii Martha, m. 1st, Joseph Shannon, before Nov 10, 1797, 2nd, -- McClenahan by 1815
iv Esther, m. James Peoples in 1807
v Sarah, b. Jan 9, 1764, m. James Watt on Jan 10, 1793, d. Feb 21, 1849
vi William, b 1762, m. 1st, -- Stewart, m. 2nd, Sarah Abrams Elder, d. 1844
vii Alexander, d. Dec 10, 1832
viii Nancy (Agnes), b. ca. 1780, m. Hugh McPherson May 10, 1808, d. Apr 9, 1834
ix Elizabeth, if m., then aft. Nov 13, 1819
He was married in Londonderry County, Ireland.
He arrived in Philadelphia in 1783 and moved that same year to Franklin County, Pennsylvania.
A letter written by John N. McElroy of Ottumua, Iowa on Oct 23, 1873 to his mother Esther McElroy states, "The first (ancestor we have a record of) is Alexander J. Kerr who had 3 sons, Robert, Alex, and William and six girls." If Alexander named his sons after his father, his father-in-law, and himself, then his father would have been Robert Kerr, and his father-in-law's first name would have been William
The 1790 Census for Lack Township, Mifflin County, Pennsylvania, (Roll 8, page 139), reflects Alexander Karr as the head of household with the following members: two males under 16 (William and Alexander, Jr.), and six females (Martha, Esther, Sara, Nancy, Elizabeth, and his wife). Listed on the same census page were Thomas Karr and John Karr.
The 1800 Census for Lack Township, Mifflin County, Pennsylvania, (Roll 37, page 471), reflects Alexr Kerr as the head of household with the following members: one male over 45 and one female between the ages of 16 and 26. Listed on the same census page were George Kerr, Thomas Kerr, John Kerr, and William Kerr as heads of households.
An indenture dated Dec 1803 states, "Alexander Kerr of Lack Township sold a tract of land in Lack Township he bought from John Harvey 3 June 1790 to his son William Kerr for two hundred pounds. William has lived on this land and is now removing from it. Tract bounded by James McConnel, the Mountain, William Neely, Alexander Kerr. Witnesses Thomas Barrett, Gilbert Kennedy." McConnel, Neely, and Barrett were also listed on the same 1800 census page with Alexander Kerr.
Alexander J. Kerr, Senior, wrote his will on Nov 18, 1806. It was proved Apr 20, 1808 and recorded in Will Book 2, page 96, on file with the Register-Recorder in Mifflin County, Pennsylvania. The file number 2185 contains the will, filed on Apr 20, 1808, the appraisement filed Apr 21, 1808, the vendue list dated Apr 21, 1808, and the executor's account, dated Oct 9, 1815.
The will reads, in part:
"In the name of God Amen. I Alexander Kerr of Tusquerora Valley, Mifflin County and State of Pennsylvania being frail in body though sound In mind and Judgment, do make this my last Will & Testimoney in the manner as follows;
"first Discharging al my - Lawfull debts it is my wish to have the freehold which I now hold in this Valley, or any other which I may hold At my decease with all my Stock and personal property disposed of to the best advantage and divided in Equal Proportions among my children at present nine in number, Viz:
"Mary Kerr (alias Scott) now living in Canamugh-Settlement one ninth, Robert Kerr of Path Valley one ninth, Martha Shannon near Messerburg (?) one ninth, Esther Kerr one ninth, Sarah Kerr (alias Watt) one ninth, only there is fifteen pounds with interest from the time she Was Married until my Decease to Come out of her share, for a Mare she got, - William Kerr one ninth, Alexander Kerr Junr of Washington City one ninth, Nancy Kerr one ninth. Elizabeth Kerr one ninth.
"only those that May not be Married of my family at my decease; is to get their bed and beddoathes their Wheell and saddle-
"Before the Above Division takes place and in Case of Death of any of them prior to such Distribution, his, her, or their share, to be divided Equally among the Survivors, and not to decend to the Heirs of any of the Deceassed. And for my friend and Neighbour, and my Sons Robert Kerr, and Alexander Kerr, to be my Executors to take Charge of affairs, and have this my Last Will and testament Executed with Justice, and all other wills that my have been made prior to this to be Null and void this done in Tusquerora Valley this Eighteenth Day of November In the year of our Lord One Thousand Eight hundred and six -- Witness my hand and seal -- Alexander Kerr.
"Signed in the prescence of us - James. N. Connell,
Jno Morrow
"Codicil to the foregoing Will) In Consequence of an agreement having been Entered into between Me, and my son William Kerr, Within mentioned, bearing date the seventeenth of December one Thousand Eight hundred for his getting a Certain part of the land I then held in fee simple in Consideration of his paying off all the Debts then due by me to sundry persons, which land he got and in which I Conceive the said William Kerr to have an advantage fully Adequate to hispart A Proportion of all my Effects, my Will and Desire therefore is, that the said Advantage shall be Considered by the said William Kerr, or his heirs as an Equivelent in full, for his one ninth of My Effects as mentioned in the within Will, and that the said William Kerr, or his heirs shall not be Entitled to anypart of the Residue of my Effects, but that the said Residue shall be divided Equally among the remainder of my Children (Eight in number) or in Case of the Death of any of Them to their Offspring, and in Case of any of them Dieing without Issue, then his or her part shall be Divided Equally among the Survivers --Tusquerora Valley this Eighteenth Day of November In the year of our Lord one thousand Eight hundred and six Witness my hand and seal -- Allexander Kerr"
The inventory of the estate, conducted on Nov 21, 1807, included the following (values given in pounds, shillings, and pence):
"one black cow, 3/15/0; one black and white cow, 3/0/0; one heipher, 1/10/0; three calves, 2/5/0, sixteen sheep at Each 0/9/4½; four hogs in a pen, 2/5/0; two sows and 15 pigs, 3/0/0; one sea chest & contents, 1/10/0; one sea chest and contents 0/11/3; one silver watch, 1/10/0; one hand saw, 0/3/9; one cupboard, 0/10/9; one table, 1/2/6; one Dozen Pewter, 1/2/6; one Large Pewter, 0/3/9; two candlesticks, 0/3/9, one bake Kettle, 0/9/4½; one pot, 0/7/6; one small Joyhooks, 0/3/9; one Bake Kettle, 0/5/7½, six Chairs, 0/10/0; three table spoons, 1/17/6; five small spoons, 0/18/9; one looking glass, 0/1/10; two Kegg, 0/3/9; two barrels, 0/11/3; two Keggs, 0/3/4; one open Ended barrel, 0/3/9; one dough trough & barrel, 0/3/9; four open Ended barrels, 0/11/3; one Large Bible, 0/5/7½; one Dictionary, 0/5/7½, one small Bible, 0/1/10½; one Confession of faith, 0/2/3; Best match & holy war, 0/4/6; Dickeson and Willeson, 0/3/9; sacramental Catechism, 0/1/18; two forks, 0/2/3; one log Chain, 0/3/9. .
On Dec 3, 1807, many of these items, plus others, were sold to family members and neighbors. Among those items going to Robert Kerr were one large buckle, 0/1/7, one sow and four pigs, 0/15/3; one Wether and lamb, 0/18/11; one large Ewe and lamb, 0/15/0; one Ewe and Lamb, 0/11/3; one large sheep & lamb, 0/19/0; one Chest, 1/17/6; one barrel, 0/6/9; Willison on the Catechism, 0/5/0; one large Bible, 1/0/7½; and one Crook, 0/4/1. Others buying goods included William Brice, Alexander Kerr, John Wilson, William Kyle, Esther Kerr, William Neily, John Layon, Edward McMullen, Rebecca Arbuckle, Nancy Kerr, Thomas Barret, and Joseph Swan. Total sold came to 36 pounds, 5 shillings, and 6 pence, equal then to $96.73.
On Oct 1, 1811, the land that Alexander Kerr passed on to his children in his will was sold to Peter Miller and was recorded in Mifflin County, Pennsylvania Deed Book 0, pp 12-13. Children and their spouses listed were Joseph Scott and Mary, living in Armstrong Township, Indiana County, Pa; Robert Kerr and Agnes, living in Fannet Township, Franklin County, Pa; Martha Shannon and Elizabeth Kerr, both living near to Mercersburg County, Pa; James Peoples and Esther, living in Mettle Township, Franklin County, Pa; and Hugh McPherson and Agnes, living in Center County, Pa.
The land was sold for $1160.25, which was paid in full, and consisted of 118 acres, "lying and situate in Lack Township Mifflin County and State afforesaid on which Alexander Kerr deceased formerly lived adjoining lands of William Neely, William Kerr, James McConnel, and the Tusquerora Creek."
He was buried in Franklin County, Pennsylvania.
The childen of Alexander J. Kerr were:
i Mary, m. Joseph Scott, d. 1811
*ii Robert, b. ca. 1759, m. Agnes Elder in Jun, 1784, d. Jun 13, 1817
iii Martha, m. 1st, Joseph Shannon, before Nov 10, 1797, 2nd, -- McClenahan by 1815
iv Esther, m. James Peoples in 1807
v Sarah, b. Jan 9, 1764, m. James Watt on Jan 10, 1793, d. Feb 21, 1849
vi William, b 1762, m. 1st, -- Stewart, m. 2nd, Sarah Abrams Elder, d. 1844
vii Alexander, d. Dec 10, 1832
viii Nancy (Agnes), b. ca. 1780, m. Hugh McPherson May 10, 1808, d. Apr 9, 1834
ix Elizabeth, if m., then aft. Nov 13, 1819
Alexander J. Kerr was born in Londonderry County, Ireland in 1730, and died prior to Nov 21, 1807 in Lack Township, Tuscarora Valley, Mifflin County (now southern Juniata County), Pennsylvania about the age of 77.
He was married in Londonderry County, Ireland.
He arrived in Philadelphia in 1783 and moved that same year to Franklin County, Pennsylvania.
A letter written by John N. McElroy of Ottumua, Iowa on Oct 23, 1873 to his mother Esther McElroy states, "The first (ancestor we have a record of) is Alexander J. Kerr who had 3 sons, Robert, Alex, and William and six girls." If Alexander named his sons after his father, his father-in-law, and himself, then his father would have been Robert Kerr, and his father-in-law's first name would have been William
The 1790 Census for Lack Township, Mifflin County, Pennsylvania, (Roll 8, page 139), reflects Alexander Karr as the head of household with the following members: two males under 16 (William and Alexander, Jr.), and six females (Martha, Esther, Sara, Nancy, Elizabeth, and his wife). Listed on the same census page were Thomas Karr and John Karr.
The 1800 Census for Lack Township, Mifflin County, Pennsylvania, (Roll 37, page 471), reflects Alexr Kerr as the head of household with the following members: one male over 45 and one female between the ages of 16 and 26. Listed on the same census page were George Kerr, Thomas Kerr, John Kerr, and William Kerr as heads of households.
An indenture dated Dec 1803 states, "Alexander Kerr of Lack Township sold a tract of land in Lack Township he bought from John Harvey 3 June 1790 to his son William Kerr for two hundred pounds. William has lived on this land and is now removing from it. Tract bounded by James McConnel, the Mountain, William Neely, Alexander Kerr. Witnesses Thomas Barrett, Gilbert Kennedy." McConnel, Neely, and Barrett were also listed on the same 1800 census page with Alexander Kerr.
Alexander J. Kerr, Senior, wrote his will on Nov 18, 1806. It was proved Apr 20, 1808 and recorded in Will Book 2, page 96, on file with the Register-Recorder in Mifflin County, Pennsylvania. The file number 2185 contains the will, filed on Apr 20, 1808, the appraisement filed Apr 21, 1808, the vendue list dated Apr 21, 1808, and the executor's account, dated Oct 9, 1815.
The will reads, in part:
"In the name of God Amen. I Alexander Kerr of Tusquerora Valley, Mifflin County and State of Pennsylvania being frail in body though sound In mind and Judgment, do make this my last Will & Testimoney in the manner as follows;
"first Discharging al my - Lawfull debts it is my wish to have the freehold which I now hold in this Valley, or any other which I may hold At my decease with all my Stock and personal property disposed of to the best advantage and divided in Equal Proportions among my children at present nine in number, Viz:
"Mary Kerr (alias Scott) now living in Canamugh-Settlement one ninth, Robert Kerr of Path Valley one ninth, Martha Shannon near Messerburg (?) one ninth, Esther Kerr one ninth, Sarah Kerr (alias Watt) one ninth, only there is fifteen pounds with interest from the time she Was Married until my Decease to Come out of her share, for a Mare she got, - William Kerr one ninth, Alexander Kerr Junr of Washington City one ninth, Nancy Kerr one ninth. Elizabeth Kerr one ninth.
"only those that May not be Married of my family at my decease; is to get their bed and beddoathes their Wheell and saddle-
"Before the Above Division takes place and in Case of Death of any of them prior to such Distribution, his, her, or their share, to be divided Equally among the Survivors, and not to decend to the Heirs of any of the Deceassed. And for my friend and Neighbour, and my Sons Robert Kerr, and Alexander Kerr, to be my Executors to take Charge of affairs, and have this my Last Will and testament Executed with Justice, and all other wills that my have been made prior to this to be Null and void this done in Tusquerora Valley this Eighteenth Day of November In the year of our Lord One Thousand Eight hundred and six -- Witness my hand and seal -- Alexander Kerr.
"Signed in the prescence of us - James. N. Connell,
Jno Morrow
"Codicil to the foregoing Will) In Consequence of an agreement having been Entered into between Me, and my son William Kerr, Within mentioned, bearing date the seventeenth of December one Thousand Eight hundred for his getting a Certain part of the land I then held in fee simple in Consideration of his paying off all the Debts then due by me to sundry persons, which land he got and in which I Conceive the said William Kerr to have an advantage fully Adequate to hispart A Proportion of all my Effects, my Will and Desire therefore is, that the said Advantage shall be Considered by the said William Kerr, or his heirs as an Equivelent in full, for his one ninth of My Effects as mentioned in the within Will, and that the said William Kerr, or his heirs shall not be Entitled to anypart of the Residue of my Effects, but that the said Residue shall be divided Equally among the remainder of my Children (Eight in number) or in Case of the Death of any of Them to their Offspring, and in Case of any of them Dieing without Issue, then his or her part shall be Divided Equally among the Survivers --Tusquerora Valley this Eighteenth Day of November In the year of our Lord one thousand Eight hundred and six Witness my hand and seal -- Allexander Kerr"
The inventory of the estate, conducted on Nov 21, 1807, included the following (values given in pounds, shillings, and pence):
"one black cow, 3/15/0; one black and white cow, 3/0/0; one heipher, 1/10/0; three calves, 2/5/0, sixteen sheep at Each 0/9/4½; four hogs in a pen, 2/5/0; two sows and 15 pigs, 3/0/0; one sea chest & contents, 1/10/0; one sea chest and contents 0/11/3; one silver watch, 1/10/0; one hand saw, 0/3/9; one cupboard, 0/10/9; one table, 1/2/6; one Dozen Pewter, 1/2/6; one Large Pewter, 0/3/9; two candlesticks, 0/3/9, one bake Kettle, 0/9/4½; one pot, 0/7/6; one small Joyhooks, 0/3/9; one Bake Kettle, 0/5/7½, six Chairs, 0/10/0; three table spoons, 1/17/6; five small spoons, 0/18/9; one looking glass, 0/1/10; two Kegg, 0/3/9; two barrels, 0/11/3; two Keggs, 0/3/4; one open Ended barrel, 0/3/9; one dough trough & barrel, 0/3/9; four open Ended barrels, 0/11/3; one Large Bible, 0/5/7½; one Dictionary, 0/5/7½, one small Bible, 0/1/10½; one Confession of faith, 0/2/3; Best match & holy war, 0/4/6; Dickeson and Willeson, 0/3/9; sacramental Catechism, 0/1/18; two forks, 0/2/3; one log Chain, 0/3/9. .
On Dec 3, 1807, many of these items, plus others, were sold to family members and neighbors. Among those items going to Robert Kerr were one large buckle, 0/1/7, one sow and four pigs, 0/15/3; one Wether and lamb, 0/18/11; one large Ewe and lamb, 0/15/0; one Ewe and Lamb, 0/11/3; one large sheep & lamb, 0/19/0; one Chest, 1/17/6; one barrel, 0/6/9; Willison on the Catechism, 0/5/0; one large Bible, 1/0/7½; and one Crook, 0/4/1. Others buying goods included William Brice, Alexander Kerr, John Wilson, William Kyle, Esther Kerr, William Neily, John Layon, Edward McMullen, Rebecca Arbuckle, Nancy Kerr, Thomas Barret, and Joseph Swan. Total sold came to 36 pounds, 5 shillings, and 6 pence, equal then to $96.73.
On Oct 1, 1811, the land that Alexander Kerr passed on to his children in his will was sold to Peter Miller and was recorded in Mifflin County, Pennsylvania Deed Book 0, pp 12-13. Children and their spouses listed were Joseph Scott and Mary, living in Armstrong Township, Indiana County, Pa; Robert Kerr and Agnes, living in Fannet Township, Franklin County, Pa; Martha Shannon and Elizabeth Kerr, both living near to Mercersburg County, Pa; James Peoples and Esther, living in Mettle Township, Franklin County, Pa; and Hugh McPherson and Agnes, living in Center County, Pa.
The land was sold for $1160.25, which was paid in full, and consisted of 118 acres, "lying and situate in Lack Township Mifflin County and State afforesaid on which Alexander Kerr deceased formerly lived adjoining lands of William Neely, William Kerr, James McConnel, and the Tusquerora Creek."
He was buried in Franklin County, Pennsylvania.
The childen of Alexander J. Kerr were:
i Mary, m. Joseph Scott, d. 1811
*ii Robert, b. ca. 1759, m. Agnes Elder in Jun, 1784, d. Jun 13, 1817
iii Martha, m. 1st, Joseph Shannon, before Nov 10, 1797, 2nd, -- McClenahan by 1815
iv Esther, m. James Peoples in 1807
v Sarah, b. Jan 9, 1764, m. James Watt on Jan 10, 1793, d. Feb 21, 1849
vi William, b 1762, m. 1st, -- Stewart, m. 2nd, Sarah Abrams Elder, d. 1844
vii Alexander, d. Dec 10, 1832
viii Nancy (Agnes), b. ca. 1780, m. Hugh McPherson May 10, 1808, d. Apr 9, 1834
ix Elizabeth, if m., then aft. Nov 13, 1819
He was married in Londonderry County, Ireland.
He arrived in Philadelphia in 1783 and moved that same year to Franklin County, Pennsylvania.
A letter written by John N. McElroy of Ottumua, Iowa on Oct 23, 1873 to his mother Esther McElroy states, "The first (ancestor we have a record of) is Alexander J. Kerr who had 3 sons, Robert, Alex, and William and six girls." If Alexander named his sons after his father, his father-in-law, and himself, then his father would have been Robert Kerr, and his father-in-law's first name would have been William
The 1790 Census for Lack Township, Mifflin County, Pennsylvania, (Roll 8, page 139), reflects Alexander Karr as the head of household with the following members: two males under 16 (William and Alexander, Jr.), and six females (Martha, Esther, Sara, Nancy, Elizabeth, and his wife). Listed on the same census page were Thomas Karr and John Karr.
The 1800 Census for Lack Township, Mifflin County, Pennsylvania, (Roll 37, page 471), reflects Alexr Kerr as the head of household with the following members: one male over 45 and one female between the ages of 16 and 26. Listed on the same census page were George Kerr, Thomas Kerr, John Kerr, and William Kerr as heads of households.
An indenture dated Dec 1803 states, "Alexander Kerr of Lack Township sold a tract of land in Lack Township he bought from John Harvey 3 June 1790 to his son William Kerr for two hundred pounds. William has lived on this land and is now removing from it. Tract bounded by James McConnel, the Mountain, William Neely, Alexander Kerr. Witnesses Thomas Barrett, Gilbert Kennedy." McConnel, Neely, and Barrett were also listed on the same 1800 census page with Alexander Kerr.
Alexander J. Kerr, Senior, wrote his will on Nov 18, 1806. It was proved Apr 20, 1808 and recorded in Will Book 2, page 96, on file with the Register-Recorder in Mifflin County, Pennsylvania. The file number 2185 contains the will, filed on Apr 20, 1808, the appraisement filed Apr 21, 1808, the vendue list dated Apr 21, 1808, and the executor's account, dated Oct 9, 1815.
The will reads, in part:
"In the name of God Amen. I Alexander Kerr of Tusquerora Valley, Mifflin County and State of Pennsylvania being frail in body though sound In mind and Judgment, do make this my last Will & Testimoney in the manner as follows;
"first Discharging al my - Lawfull debts it is my wish to have the freehold which I now hold in this Valley, or any other which I may hold At my decease with all my Stock and personal property disposed of to the best advantage and divided in Equal Proportions among my children at present nine in number, Viz:
"Mary Kerr (alias Scott) now living in Canamugh-Settlement one ninth, Robert Kerr of Path Valley one ninth, Martha Shannon near Messerburg (?) one ninth, Esther Kerr one ninth, Sarah Kerr (alias Watt) one ninth, only there is fifteen pounds with interest from the time she Was Married until my Decease to Come out of her share, for a Mare she got, - William Kerr one ninth, Alexander Kerr Junr of Washington City one ninth, Nancy Kerr one ninth. Elizabeth Kerr one ninth.
"only those that May not be Married of my family at my decease; is to get their bed and beddoathes their Wheell and saddle-
"Before the Above Division takes place and in Case of Death of any of them prior to such Distribution, his, her, or their share, to be divided Equally among the Survivors, and not to decend to the Heirs of any of the Deceassed. And for my friend and Neighbour, and my Sons Robert Kerr, and Alexander Kerr, to be my Executors to take Charge of affairs, and have this my Last Will and testament Executed with Justice, and all other wills that my have been made prior to this to be Null and void this done in Tusquerora Valley this Eighteenth Day of November In the year of our Lord One Thousand Eight hundred and six -- Witness my hand and seal -- Alexander Kerr.
"Signed in the prescence of us - James. N. Connell,
Jno Morrow
"Codicil to the foregoing Will) In Consequence of an agreement having been Entered into between Me, and my son William Kerr, Within mentioned, bearing date the seventeenth of December one Thousand Eight hundred for his getting a Certain part of the land I then held in fee simple in Consideration of his paying off all the Debts then due by me to sundry persons, which land he got and in which I Conceive the said William Kerr to have an advantage fully Adequate to hispart A Proportion of all my Effects, my Will and Desire therefore is, that the said Advantage shall be Considered by the said William Kerr, or his heirs as an Equivelent in full, for his one ninth of My Effects as mentioned in the within Will, and that the said William Kerr, or his heirs shall not be Entitled to anypart of the Residue of my Effects, but that the said Residue shall be divided Equally among the remainder of my Children (Eight in number) or in Case of the Death of any of Them to their Offspring, and in Case of any of them Dieing without Issue, then his or her part shall be Divided Equally among the Survivers --Tusquerora Valley this Eighteenth Day of November In the year of our Lord one thousand Eight hundred and six Witness my hand and seal -- Allexander Kerr"
The inventory of the estate, conducted on Nov 21, 1807, included the following (values given in pounds, shillings, and pence):
"one black cow, 3/15/0; one black and white cow, 3/0/0; one heipher, 1/10/0; three calves, 2/5/0, sixteen sheep at Each 0/9/4½; four hogs in a pen, 2/5/0; two sows and 15 pigs, 3/0/0; one sea chest & contents, 1/10/0; one sea chest and contents 0/11/3; one silver watch, 1/10/0; one hand saw, 0/3/9; one cupboard, 0/10/9; one table, 1/2/6; one Dozen Pewter, 1/2/6; one Large Pewter, 0/3/9; two candlesticks, 0/3/9, one bake Kettle, 0/9/4½; one pot, 0/7/6; one small Joyhooks, 0/3/9; one Bake Kettle, 0/5/7½, six Chairs, 0/10/0; three table spoons, 1/17/6; five small spoons, 0/18/9; one looking glass, 0/1/10; two Kegg, 0/3/9; two barrels, 0/11/3; two Keggs, 0/3/4; one open Ended barrel, 0/3/9; one dough trough & barrel, 0/3/9; four open Ended barrels, 0/11/3; one Large Bible, 0/5/7½; one Dictionary, 0/5/7½, one small Bible, 0/1/10½; one Confession of faith, 0/2/3; Best match & holy war, 0/4/6; Dickeson and Willeson, 0/3/9; sacramental Catechism, 0/1/18; two forks, 0/2/3; one log Chain, 0/3/9. .
On Dec 3, 1807, many of these items, plus others, were sold to family members and neighbors. Among those items going to Robert Kerr were one large buckle, 0/1/7, one sow and four pigs, 0/15/3; one Wether and lamb, 0/18/11; one large Ewe and lamb, 0/15/0; one Ewe and Lamb, 0/11/3; one large sheep & lamb, 0/19/0; one Chest, 1/17/6; one barrel, 0/6/9; Willison on the Catechism, 0/5/0; one large Bible, 1/0/7½; and one Crook, 0/4/1. Others buying goods included William Brice, Alexander Kerr, John Wilson, William Kyle, Esther Kerr, William Neily, John Layon, Edward McMullen, Rebecca Arbuckle, Nancy Kerr, Thomas Barret, and Joseph Swan. Total sold came to 36 pounds, 5 shillings, and 6 pence, equal then to $96.73.
On Oct 1, 1811, the land that Alexander Kerr passed on to his children in his will was sold to Peter Miller and was recorded in Mifflin County, Pennsylvania Deed Book 0, pp 12-13. Children and their spouses listed were Joseph Scott and Mary, living in Armstrong Township, Indiana County, Pa; Robert Kerr and Agnes, living in Fannet Township, Franklin County, Pa; Martha Shannon and Elizabeth Kerr, both living near to Mercersburg County, Pa; James Peoples and Esther, living in Mettle Township, Franklin County, Pa; and Hugh McPherson and Agnes, living in Center County, Pa.
The land was sold for $1160.25, which was paid in full, and consisted of 118 acres, "lying and situate in Lack Township Mifflin County and State afforesaid on which Alexander Kerr deceased formerly lived adjoining lands of William Neely, William Kerr, James McConnel, and the Tusquerora Creek."
He was buried in Franklin County, Pennsylvania.
The childen of Alexander J. Kerr were:
i Mary, m. Joseph Scott, d. 1811
*ii Robert, b. ca. 1759, m. Agnes Elder in Jun, 1784, d. Jun 13, 1817
iii Martha, m. 1st, Joseph Shannon, before Nov 10, 1797, 2nd, -- McClenahan by 1815
iv Esther, m. James Peoples in 1807
v Sarah, b. Jan 9, 1764, m. James Watt on Jan 10, 1793, d. Feb 21, 1849
vi William, b 1762, m. 1st, -- Stewart, m. 2nd, Sarah Abrams Elder, d. 1844
vii Alexander, d. Dec 10, 1832
viii Nancy (Agnes), b. ca. 1780, m. Hugh McPherson May 10, 1808, d. Apr 9, 1834
ix Elizabeth, if m., then aft. Nov 13, 1819
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