David Strain (or Strean) Sr.'s exact birth and death places and dates are unknown as yet. I believe he was born about 1727 (or before 1730), based on the ages to serve in our Revolutionary War. I suspect he was born in current day, Northern Ireland, AKA Ulster. The area he settled in here was totally Scots-Irish, meaning of Scots heritage, having resided in Northern Ireland. Those Brits encouraged them to come to Northern Ireland, then made it impossible to live there. From 1720 onward, the Scots-Irish left en masse for ye new world colonies. Freedom to practice Presbyterianism was a major cause, ability to eat, clothe, and work, another. They wanted freedom. The exact surname used in Scotland is not documented but it was not Strain. Strain is found only in later records from about the 1800's in Scotland and N. Ireland, from what I've found. Suspect it was closer to Strathairn or Strayhorn (see Gilbert below). It's possible it was anglicized after arriving in America, by those who could write. Most all of my Scots-Irish kin's names were altered by a few letters in America. It was a brave new beginning and under the circumstances, I guess they wanted to acknowledge their new life on this continent.
David was documented first in Hanover Township, (then) Lancaster County, Pennsylvania from 1750, as a possible shoemaker (1 tax report only), on tax/assessment lists, surveys, land applications, land plots plans, land warrants, militia lists and oaths through to 1783. He "squatted" on his land as was customarily done (by all of his neighbors), often until they cleared some land, etc. There are many people, in the Old Hanover churchyard in the enclosed walls and outside of it, that also do not have a gravestone with names and dates. The source below says, there were about 1157 graves, with 879 markers, at unknown date. Yet today there are less than 300 existing old markers. The surrounding about 700' cemetery wall, was originally (or at one time) built in 1797 by assessing church members, including my kin. It has been repaired many times since then, including more recently, in about 2006. East Hanover Township, Dauphin County, Pennsylvania, Bicentennial Celebration, 1776-1976, Ruth Carlson Editor, Bicentennial Book Committee (page 63-64). There are several empty spaces without markers beside daughter Jennet Strain McCreight and her family at the Old Hanover Presbyterian Church Cemetery. I suspect David, his wife Elizabeth, son William (also died in 1783) could easily be buried there.
See Anthony McCreight/McCrait's 1754 surveyed plat map. It is on his son Capt. James McCreight's site. James was the husband of David's daughter, Jennet. Anthony's site is bordering neighbor David Strain's land in 1754. This recreated map was assembled from the original record on file in the Dept. of Internal Affairs of Pennsylvania, per Act of Assembly 16 Feb 1833 and 72 years later 20 Dec 1905, this copy was recorded again.
See John Strain's surveyed plat map dated 28 April 1762 on John Strayn's site, showing bordering neighbor David Strain to his west, Anthony McCreat to his south (yellow highlighter).
1765, "Lancafter County fs. 28th Augt 1765 in Hanover Township, That I have known the Bearer here of David "Strain" - Living on his place then years free of Any Disputes The Place And Improvements Shall Cerified by Me this 26 Auguft 1765, Adam Reed. David Strain 100 as (acres) Rounded with Antoney McCreight on the South, Robart Hill on the South & Robart Mcllard on the North. Tupofe 100 Ac____ Recd_______
On the 1773 Hanover, Lancaster County, Pennsylvania Tax List, I found David "Strain" with 80 acres, value 100, horses value: 24, and cows value: 10. Thomas "Strain" is also on this list. A 2nd one Ancestry lists as 1773 Hanover, Lancaster County, Pennsylvania states for David "Strain:" 80 land, 2 horses, 7 cows, total value 75, oath of "alegiance" mark ditto D, Garde Honey Tax 1 - 10 - 0,, State Money Tax 1- 5-0.
On the 1779 Hanover, Lancaster County, Pennsylvania Tax List, I found David "Strain" with land 80, horses 2, cows 4, cash 375, 2d Contl Tax 1779 33, money tax 4, 13, first 2 months tax 1780: 75, 6, pounds - ditto: 75, 6.
I personally assembled and drew one of the maps in photo on right using purchased (Pennsylvania Archives) plat maps and the 2 $35. Warrantee Tract maps of Dauphin County. Lebanon County does NOT have a redrawn Warrantee Tract map like the one in Dauphin County for E. and W. Hanover Twp. David Strain (and others) were not included on the Dauphin County map since in 1813, the same land previously in Lancaster County, then Dauphin, became Lebanon County, on the border with Dauphin. The plat shapes fit perfectly to the Dauphin County. map. Do not REPRODUCE.
His will was made in Hanover Township on 25 Apr 1783 (when he was sick and weak in body) and it was probated on 3 Oct 1783, in then Lancaster County, Pennsylvania Will (D, page 365-67), as was his complete inventory. He signed it with a mark and it was witnessed by William Cathcart and James Caldwell. Based on these documents he died between 25 April and 3 Oct 1783. Noah's first American dictionary wasn't even printed yet and accepted spellings were a-changing. The majority of citizens could not write, but they could clear and farm the land, build a home, and fight the Indians and Brits for their freedom. They also could meet at Presbyterian Meeting Houses, where they met socially with their neighbors, who were all on pretty large plots of land.
Sadly, there isn't a surviving record of David or his wife's death or gravestone to memorialize them. His home was located close to the Old Hanover Churchyard, near Bow Creek. It is documented that this churchyard has many unmarked or illegible gravestones as well. It's first pastor began there in 1738. The cemetery began much later.
David's will (original & the recorded copy) records his wife Elizabeth, children: John, Jennet, Mrs. John Wilson, and 3 unmarried children: Alexander and David (Jr.), plus William. The executors were his wife and son William. In 1785, Elizabeth warranted and patented his land (87 acres on warrant #1025 and patent Vol. P, Book 4, page 158) in her name ("Elizabeth Strain") and refers to David Strain's 1783 will. In April 1783, I suspect the only children living in Hanover were Janet (Mrs. McCreight), Alexander, David Jr. and William. John was not on any record. Mrs. John Wilson AKA Sarah Strain Wilson was living in Franklin County, Pennsylvania
In June 1776, David, Sr. is documented serving in the local Hanover Militia (using "Strean" or similar). The military records also are not complete. 6 Jun 1776, Capt. James Roger's Company included Privates David Strean, (Thomas Strean and Wm Kithcart - Cathcart). "The return of Capt. James Rogers' company of militia of Col Timothy Green's Hanover Rifle Battalion of Lancaster County Associators, destined for the camp in the Jerseys, 6th Jun 1776." He took the oath in May 1778 and May 1779.
Son David, Jr. married a local girl at Old Hanover Church in October 1792 and her grandparents are buried at this cemetery.
There's a big gap in the church records from 1738, to 1780's other than a few marriages here and there, with the traveling Presbyterian ministers. Widower Elizabeth Strain was a member of the same Old Hanover Church and contributed to the stonewall surrounding the cemetery (still there), as did her son in law, James McCreight. The 1796 Dauphin County tax list includes Elizabeth's 80 acres containing 1 house, 1 ½ stories high, of stone construction with a log barn, a small out house with 1 horned cattle, valued at £222. In 1803, Elizabeth Strain made an indenture in (now) Dauphin County to her grandson David McCreight (Deed Book P-1-450) for part of her land, signing it with her mark. It was recorded four years later on 7 Dec 1807. Elizabeth "Shean" and her grandson David McCreight are recorded side by side on the 1810 W. Hanover Township, Dauphin County Census and then Elizabeth disappears. In 1813, her land was on the eastern border of Dauphin in now, Lebanon County on its western border.
My older relatives (great grand dad, named after him and born 46 years after his 1783 death, plus his sister, daughter and a D.A.R. applicant) believed David was born in County Down, Northern Ireland OR Scotland, in about 1720 to 1730 but it hasn't been proven. To serve in the militia, he was probably born closer to 1730. Family tradition (1 recorded in 1899, by his great grandson) says he fell sick or (his great granddaughter says) was crossing a bridge that gave way, while hauling supplies during the war. D.A.R. Ancestor #A111047.
Now David was ill in April 1783 when he made his will, possibly from injuries in the war. His will was recorded and presented with his estate inventory on the same day in Oct 1783, so he died somewhere BETWEEN THESE DATES. Or maybe he recovered after the illness and signed up to break down the remaining posts from the war which were carried out even after Oct 1783. The battle of Yorktown took place in Oct 1781, with the surrender of Cornwallis. However, it took the signing of the Treaty of Paris on 3 Sep 1783, to officially end it. Representatives from our colonies, France, Great Britain and even Spain signed it, recognizing our independence. Not having phones or the internet, it took time to get the word back to Pennsylvania and elsewhere. A voyage could take 2 months across the pond. All the damage from the war didn't go away in a day, it took time to make repairs.
Further support is found In Newburgh, NY, in Oct 1783, where Major Caleb Gibbs was serving, they still received "upward of 20 wagons a day of supplies." Wagons made 6 to 10 miles a day on average and he has 400 wagons enroute to him at all times. "Eight years of war have left our roads, bridges and ferrys in terrible condition. The soldiers and teamsters that convey the supplies to the army are always at risk." Injuries hauling revolutionary war supplies were common. In mid Oct 1784, General Washington was inspecting West Point. (Author, Donald Moran of SAR)
Only one child is known to have stayed in Hanover Twp., his daughter Jennet (wife of Captain James McCreight). She was buried at the Old Hanover Churchyard in Grantville, (current day) Dauphin County, Pennsylvania with her husband and some children. Another daughter Sarah, married John Wilson, and were still in Pennsylvania, but in current Franklin County. Son, William died between the dates of his father's will (Apr 1783) and probate (Oct 1783) and suspect he could have been with his father when he passed. Son David, Jr. remained in Hanover Twp., to get married in Oct 1792, have a daughter and then settled in Augusta County, Virginia.
My family tradition from the 1800's says that two sons of David's went south, one to Tennessee and one to Carolina (although it didn't say when or North/South). Two SUSPECTED sons, John and Alexander were found in Orange County, North Carolina. No graves have been located for them, but family records exist there, although not complete, look convincing. Alexander and John are said to both have kids with the same names in David's 1783 will, supporting a family connection, but I have yet to see a document showing this. Turns out Alexander's son David went to Maury County, Tennessee for a spell, but later died in Illinois in 1854.
The last son to leave Hanover Twp. Pennsylvania, was the youngest son, David Strain, Jr. following his 1792 marriage and birth of his first child, Rebecca (no doubt, named for Elizabeth Allen's mother, Rebecca). He went south down the Indian trail, settling in (Greenville) Augusta County, Virginia per his deeded land there, 15 Sep 1795. David, Jr.'s second and next child was named David Strain and the tradition continued (through the 1900's) of naming sons after this pioneer man, whom immigrated here, cleared the land, struggled with the Indians, raised his family and fought for our country's independent future.
Lastly, I must note there were other Strain/Strean/Strayens in the same area in Hanover Township in 1749 (+ 1 in 1739: Robert, possibly the son of John, d 1752, on a land doc). My David's land bordered that of an older John Strayen, (positively connected to the Strain surname with a land doc), who died testate in 1752, with several children, including a son David. In fact, he left his family bible to this David (if only). I only follow the trail here on one David Strain (best I can tell), not 2, so IF there was a 2nd one, he did not live here based on the records I've found. There was another early David Strain, with land in SC and NC, but his trail also is not complete. Was this the other David, son of John? Maybe he resided elsewhere and was just purchasing land for an investment (like mine did). Did David the son of John Strayen stay or go? So many possible connections, but not enough to confirm either. From experience wills usually list children in order of age. So it would appear that John's son David would have been older than Gilbert (below born in about 1715, aged 88). Now there is no proof that John is or is not this David's father. I could go either way on this at times and I've really tried to connect them, but I do not believe he is. John's will also mentions a cousin Alexander and a David Strayen/Strean witnesses it with an X, but could not appear to witness it at Court per the local Reverend's statement. This David should not have been John's son, if he witnessed the will, not that rules weren't broken then. My David, died 1783, signed his will with a mark (due to an injury like my family folklore says or more than likely couldn't write. No previous records of a David here that could write and it appears most settlers could not. They were Scots-Irish farmers escaping their Scottish mother lands or adopted Ulster lands (read Senator Jas Webb's book, Born Fighting). If I had to guess at the moment, I'd guess my David is this John's nephew due to age of kids and death, service in the revolutionary war age limits, etc. I've only found one source (New Hope Church) that believe my David is the son of John, died 1752, but it is based on memory of an elderly man and there are known errors in this source. I'd just like to find some other documentation to back it up to present it properly.
On the other side, a Rev. John Strain, 1731-1774 died in York County, Pennsylvania with a brother David. David refused to settle his dear brothers' estate so his mother in law, Jean Strain did. My David was alive during this time, and signed his name with a mark in 1783. Also see Western Pennsylvania. Historical Magazine, Vol. 17, p. 33, article called The Narrative Of A Pioneer Preacher: George M. Scott. IF this connects, my David, then Gilbert can't also be his brother, as Gilbert's brother John died in 1760. Plus in the same Hanover Townhip, a Thomas Strain also applied for a plot of land on the same day in 1765, as did this David. Were they connected also?
DAVID STRAIN Lancaster County, Pennsylvania Will Book D, 1, page 365-7, 1783. Below is taken from the original will (The original will is recorded by the registrar who copies it in his own handwriting. The recorded will skips a small paragraph and made small minor spelling changes and capitalized different words.):
In the Name of God Amen this Twenty fifth day of Aprile one thousand seven hundred and Eighty three. I David Strean of hanover township, Lancaster County and State of Pensylvania being seeck and weak in body but in perfect mind and memory and Calling to mind the mortality of my Body and that it is appointed for all men once to die do therefore make Conftitute and ordain this my Last Will and Teftament and firft I recomend my Spirit to God Who gave it, and my Body I recomend to the Earth to be Buried in Defent Burial order Nothing Doubting But I Shall recive it again at the general Resurrection by the mighty power of God. and touching such Worldly Eftate as it hath pleafed Almighty God to blefs me With in this life. I do bequeath, give Demise and Difpofe of the same as followeth wiz. first I give and Bequeath to my Well beloved Wife Elifabath Strean the one third of all my Estate Real and perfonal to her, her heirs and affigns for Ever. Also I give and Bequeath to My Son John Strean the Sum of Ten pounds. Also I give and Bequeath to my Son in Law James McCright the Sum of Ten Pounds. Also I give and Bequeath to my Son in Law John Wilfon the Sum of Ten Pounds. and it is my Will that these three Sums Bequeathed to my three Children be paid to Each of them at the End of five years after my internment. Also I give and Bequeath to my Son Alexander Strean one Horfe Colt of a Bay Colour with some White on his face. Also I allow and it is my Will that my Children be mintane - till they Come to Maturity and that such of them be schooled as hath not got Common learning this I allow to be done from the Benefites of my Estate. Also I will that when my Youngest Child then living is Twenty one years old that then and not till then my Whole Eftate both Real and Perfonal Be sold Excepting Such Articles as are here Demifed Before; also I allow that the price of this my real and perfonal Eftate be at the Difpofal of my beloved Wife Elizabath Strean to give it to my Children now unmarried; as she my Wife shall see Caufe to order Excepting Twenty Pounds Which Twenty Pounds I give and Bequeath to my Son David Strean when he Comes to Twenty one Years old and this I allow to him over and above his Part With the Rest of my unmarried Children and I do conftitute and ordain my Beloved Wife Elizabath Strean and my Son William Strean to be the Whole and Sole Executors of this my last Will and testament: (turn over) - And I do difallow Revock and difannull all other Wills Executors Legacys or Bequeath in any wife Before named by me only Ratifieng and Confirming this and no other to be my laft Will and Teftament in Wittnefs whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal Day and year above written David Strean(seal) - Signed sealed and pronounced in presence of us William Cathcart
James Caldwell
(MISSING on the recorded will but on the ORIGINAL will it says below the mark of David
William Cathcart & James Caldwell the witnefses Sworn.
Elizabeth Strean the Surviving
Exen. Sworn - the other Exor.dead.
October the 3d 1783-
Cor.me
James Jacks Regt.
Lancaster County fs.
On the third Day of October in the Year of our Lord One thousand Seven hundred and Eighty three, before me the Subscriber personally appeared William Cathcart and James Caldwell the two Subscribing Witnefses to the foregoing Will and being duly sworn on the Holy Evangelists of the Almightly God did severally depose and say that they were present, and saw and heard David Strean the Testator above named fign feal publish pronounce and declare the foregoing Writing as and for his Last Will and Testament, and that at the doing thereof he was of sound and well disposing Mind, Memory and Understanding to the best of their Knowledge Observation and Belief. James Jacks Reg. (Registrar)
Be it remembered that on the third Day of October in the Year of our Lord One thousand Seven hundred and Eighty three, the Last Will and Testament of David Strean late of Hanover Township in the County of Lancaster, Yeoman deceused was proved in due Forn of Law and Letters Testamentary thereon were granted to Elizabeth Strean the Surviving Executrix therein named, She being first duly qualified well and truly to administer the Estate of the said Deceased and especially to exhibit a true and perfect Inventory thereof into the Register's Office at Lancaster on or before the third Day of November next and to render a just and true Account of her Administration on the said Estate within one year or when there unto lawfully required
Given under the Seal of the said Office P me.
James Jacks Reg. (Registrar)
I held this original 1783 document that David marked and held, even though he did not pen it. What a thrill!
The following is about Scottish naming patterns popular in this age. Parents David & Elizabeth had 6 known kids: John, Jennet, Sarah (Mrs. Jno Wilson), William, Alexander and David. David's son William died between 25 April and 3 October 1783 and is not known to have a family of his own. That leaves five. I can positively connect 3 of David's 5 children: Jennet, Sarah and David. Two are not yet proven (fit the data) but believed to be: John and Alexander. Of these five married children, all had children named: Elizabeth, Alexander, David and William, 4 of 5 had Sarah and Alexander, 3 had a John and one had an unnamed infant. It breaks down like this:
1) John (presumed): David, Wm, Alexander, Elizabeth, Sarah;
2) Jennet: Elizabeth, David, William, Sarah;
3) Sarah: David, John, William, Sarah, Alexander, Elizabeth;
4) Alexander (presumed): Alexander, David, Elizabeth "Betsy," John, William and Sarah;
5) David: David, John, Wm, Alexander, Elizabeth, unnamed infant.
Searching for the elusive Strains, I traveled throughout Scotland but found absolutely nothing there to connect our Strains, although it was a slightly different name there. I perused the records at New Register House in Edinburgh.
In 1998, I was privileged to have traveled to beautiful County Down, Northern Ireland and elsewhere, while my husband was working in Bray for about 3 months. I did my own Irish Strain research as much as I could, and leaving County Down, had to pay a local genealogist to further my research there in Belfast's genealogical records (due to the Troubles, at the time around "voting day"). No one could get in. Sadly nothing could connect our David Strain to County Down, despite the several (much younger) Strain graves I found in the area. The records are not complete. Practically all of my family surnames still exist in Northern Ireland today. Like Scotland, it's such a BEAUTIFUL country still and I can see why our kin settled in Augusta and Rockbridge Counties, VA, as there are a lot of similarities in the land and climate. Maybe more time in Northern Ireland records would bare something.
NOTES:
1)Found gravestones for Jennet, Sarah and David. The other 3 have not been located but are documented below to keep the family intact.
2)I SUSPECT that there is a family connection with William Cathcart (buried at the Old Hanover Presbyterian Churchyard, near Jennet Strain McCreight) and his wife Sarah (surname unknown), as he has written many documents for this local Strain/Strean/Strayn family. His handwriting (not the court clerk) matches on several documents and he witnesses them. Elizabeth named a son William as well. Was David's wife Elizabeth, a Cathcart or were one of the local Strains married to a Cathcart daughter or was Mrs. William Cathcart, a Strain?
"John Cathcart, to the care of Mr. Strain, York county." List of Letters remaining in the Poft-Office at Lancafter, 19 Dec 1771 issue of the Pennsylvania Gazette (Philadelphia), p 4. Perhaps a connection to Rev. John Strain's dear brother David. William Cathcart, died 8 Jan 1797 resided in West Hanover, Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. He signed multiple Strain documents and had a family there. Cathcart could have been a Strain wife's maiden name. In 1774, Rev. John Strain died in York County and this letter appears to connect the Cathcarts again to the Strains.
David's burial location is undocumented. I suspect it is either on his homestead or at the Old Hanover Presbyterian Churchyard. They lived very close to this church. The church does not have any records as yet found for the period 1740 to about 1788. In June 1745, recorded Minutes of the Presbytery mention Hanover and Rev. Sankey. David's wife, son David and daughter Jennet were members there in 1788 and David, Jr. was married there in 1792. The church pastors revolved for many years, going from church to church. It was written in 1878's The Historical Sketch of Old Hanover Church, by Rev. Thomas H. Robinson, D.D., that "the well-filled grave-yard, where many an UNMARKED MOUND, many a well-worn MOSS-COVERED STONE, with the better-preserved memorial of later times..." Incidentally, there is plenty of empty space near the markers of James & Jennet S McCreight, Wm Cathcart and kin Wm and Sarah Allen. David's wife, Elizabeth last lived with the McCreights, who lived next to David and Elizabeth's homestead.
There are many people, in the Old Hanover churchyard in the enclosed walls and outside of it, that also do not have gravestones, with names and dates. The source below says, there were about 1157 graves, with 879 markers, at unknown date. Yet today there are less than 300 existing old markers. The surrounding about 700' cemetery wall, was originally built in 1797 by assessing church members, including my kin. It has been repaired many times since then, including most recently, in about 2006. East Hanover Township, Dauphin County, Pennsylvania, Bicentennial Celebration, 1776-1976, Ruth Carlson Editor, Bicentennial Book Committee (page 63-64). There are several spaces without markers beside daughter Jennet McCreight's family.
The surname Strain was not used in Scotland before about 1800. It appears to have been used in N. Ireland, after the Ulster Scotts arrived. My best bet is on the surname Straughan. An earlier neighbor and probable relation of David's, named Gilbert Strain changed his name in NC to Strayhorn, "to make it sound." His children appear to have used both names. The poll (head) tax created a need for surnames in about the 1600's up to then, not commonly used. If you've heard a lot of Scottish dialects it's easy to understand the many different spellings and pronunciations even today.
Note: I have seen a James Strain added to David and Elizabeth's children but I have seen nothing to support it. I believe all of David's children are listed in his 1783 Will. All of them did not live in the area in 1783. There is just not enough solid proof to connect James. The record of this James' children do not include the normal Scottish naming pattern, as did the rest of ALL of David's children, named in the 1783 will. The mention of David's unmarried children included William, Alexander and David. D I Craig's book, A Historical Sketch of New Hope Church in Orange County, North Carolina, believes a James came to North Carolina and was the son of this David, however there are several mistakes in this source, admittedly written by an elderly man. I believe it was John Strain who settled there and married Gilbert's daughter, Mariam, and not James. I credit him for what he got right, to document this old family. Seeking more data to document these family connections.
Bio researched and written by LSP, all rights reserved. DO NOT reprint my attached photos or copy the data within
David was documented first in Hanover Township, (then) Lancaster County, Pennsylvania from 1750, as a possible shoemaker (1 tax report only), on tax/assessment lists, surveys, land applications, land plots plans, land warrants, militia lists and oaths through to 1783. He "squatted" on his land as was customarily done (by all of his neighbors), often until they cleared some land, etc. There are many people, in the Old Hanover churchyard in the enclosed walls and outside of it, that also do not have a gravestone with names and dates. The source below says, there were about 1157 graves, with 879 markers, at unknown date. Yet today there are less than 300 existing old markers. The surrounding about 700' cemetery wall, was originally (or at one time) built in 1797 by assessing church members, including my kin. It has been repaired many times since then, including more recently, in about 2006. East Hanover Township, Dauphin County, Pennsylvania, Bicentennial Celebration, 1776-1976, Ruth Carlson Editor, Bicentennial Book Committee (page 63-64). There are several empty spaces without markers beside daughter Jennet Strain McCreight and her family at the Old Hanover Presbyterian Church Cemetery. I suspect David, his wife Elizabeth, son William (also died in 1783) could easily be buried there.
See Anthony McCreight/McCrait's 1754 surveyed plat map. It is on his son Capt. James McCreight's site. James was the husband of David's daughter, Jennet. Anthony's site is bordering neighbor David Strain's land in 1754. This recreated map was assembled from the original record on file in the Dept. of Internal Affairs of Pennsylvania, per Act of Assembly 16 Feb 1833 and 72 years later 20 Dec 1905, this copy was recorded again.
See John Strain's surveyed plat map dated 28 April 1762 on John Strayn's site, showing bordering neighbor David Strain to his west, Anthony McCreat to his south (yellow highlighter).
1765, "Lancafter County fs. 28th Augt 1765 in Hanover Township, That I have known the Bearer here of David "Strain" - Living on his place then years free of Any Disputes The Place And Improvements Shall Cerified by Me this 26 Auguft 1765, Adam Reed. David Strain 100 as (acres) Rounded with Antoney McCreight on the South, Robart Hill on the South & Robart Mcllard on the North. Tupofe 100 Ac____ Recd_______
On the 1773 Hanover, Lancaster County, Pennsylvania Tax List, I found David "Strain" with 80 acres, value 100, horses value: 24, and cows value: 10. Thomas "Strain" is also on this list. A 2nd one Ancestry lists as 1773 Hanover, Lancaster County, Pennsylvania states for David "Strain:" 80 land, 2 horses, 7 cows, total value 75, oath of "alegiance" mark ditto D, Garde Honey Tax 1 - 10 - 0,, State Money Tax 1- 5-0.
On the 1779 Hanover, Lancaster County, Pennsylvania Tax List, I found David "Strain" with land 80, horses 2, cows 4, cash 375, 2d Contl Tax 1779 33, money tax 4, 13, first 2 months tax 1780: 75, 6, pounds - ditto: 75, 6.
I personally assembled and drew one of the maps in photo on right using purchased (Pennsylvania Archives) plat maps and the 2 $35. Warrantee Tract maps of Dauphin County. Lebanon County does NOT have a redrawn Warrantee Tract map like the one in Dauphin County for E. and W. Hanover Twp. David Strain (and others) were not included on the Dauphin County map since in 1813, the same land previously in Lancaster County, then Dauphin, became Lebanon County, on the border with Dauphin. The plat shapes fit perfectly to the Dauphin County. map. Do not REPRODUCE.
His will was made in Hanover Township on 25 Apr 1783 (when he was sick and weak in body) and it was probated on 3 Oct 1783, in then Lancaster County, Pennsylvania Will (D, page 365-67), as was his complete inventory. He signed it with a mark and it was witnessed by William Cathcart and James Caldwell. Based on these documents he died between 25 April and 3 Oct 1783. Noah's first American dictionary wasn't even printed yet and accepted spellings were a-changing. The majority of citizens could not write, but they could clear and farm the land, build a home, and fight the Indians and Brits for their freedom. They also could meet at Presbyterian Meeting Houses, where they met socially with their neighbors, who were all on pretty large plots of land.
Sadly, there isn't a surviving record of David or his wife's death or gravestone to memorialize them. His home was located close to the Old Hanover Churchyard, near Bow Creek. It is documented that this churchyard has many unmarked or illegible gravestones as well. It's first pastor began there in 1738. The cemetery began much later.
David's will (original & the recorded copy) records his wife Elizabeth, children: John, Jennet, Mrs. John Wilson, and 3 unmarried children: Alexander and David (Jr.), plus William. The executors were his wife and son William. In 1785, Elizabeth warranted and patented his land (87 acres on warrant #1025 and patent Vol. P, Book 4, page 158) in her name ("Elizabeth Strain") and refers to David Strain's 1783 will. In April 1783, I suspect the only children living in Hanover were Janet (Mrs. McCreight), Alexander, David Jr. and William. John was not on any record. Mrs. John Wilson AKA Sarah Strain Wilson was living in Franklin County, Pennsylvania
In June 1776, David, Sr. is documented serving in the local Hanover Militia (using "Strean" or similar). The military records also are not complete. 6 Jun 1776, Capt. James Roger's Company included Privates David Strean, (Thomas Strean and Wm Kithcart - Cathcart). "The return of Capt. James Rogers' company of militia of Col Timothy Green's Hanover Rifle Battalion of Lancaster County Associators, destined for the camp in the Jerseys, 6th Jun 1776." He took the oath in May 1778 and May 1779.
Son David, Jr. married a local girl at Old Hanover Church in October 1792 and her grandparents are buried at this cemetery.
There's a big gap in the church records from 1738, to 1780's other than a few marriages here and there, with the traveling Presbyterian ministers. Widower Elizabeth Strain was a member of the same Old Hanover Church and contributed to the stonewall surrounding the cemetery (still there), as did her son in law, James McCreight. The 1796 Dauphin County tax list includes Elizabeth's 80 acres containing 1 house, 1 ½ stories high, of stone construction with a log barn, a small out house with 1 horned cattle, valued at £222. In 1803, Elizabeth Strain made an indenture in (now) Dauphin County to her grandson David McCreight (Deed Book P-1-450) for part of her land, signing it with her mark. It was recorded four years later on 7 Dec 1807. Elizabeth "Shean" and her grandson David McCreight are recorded side by side on the 1810 W. Hanover Township, Dauphin County Census and then Elizabeth disappears. In 1813, her land was on the eastern border of Dauphin in now, Lebanon County on its western border.
My older relatives (great grand dad, named after him and born 46 years after his 1783 death, plus his sister, daughter and a D.A.R. applicant) believed David was born in County Down, Northern Ireland OR Scotland, in about 1720 to 1730 but it hasn't been proven. To serve in the militia, he was probably born closer to 1730. Family tradition (1 recorded in 1899, by his great grandson) says he fell sick or (his great granddaughter says) was crossing a bridge that gave way, while hauling supplies during the war. D.A.R. Ancestor #A111047.
Now David was ill in April 1783 when he made his will, possibly from injuries in the war. His will was recorded and presented with his estate inventory on the same day in Oct 1783, so he died somewhere BETWEEN THESE DATES. Or maybe he recovered after the illness and signed up to break down the remaining posts from the war which were carried out even after Oct 1783. The battle of Yorktown took place in Oct 1781, with the surrender of Cornwallis. However, it took the signing of the Treaty of Paris on 3 Sep 1783, to officially end it. Representatives from our colonies, France, Great Britain and even Spain signed it, recognizing our independence. Not having phones or the internet, it took time to get the word back to Pennsylvania and elsewhere. A voyage could take 2 months across the pond. All the damage from the war didn't go away in a day, it took time to make repairs.
Further support is found In Newburgh, NY, in Oct 1783, where Major Caleb Gibbs was serving, they still received "upward of 20 wagons a day of supplies." Wagons made 6 to 10 miles a day on average and he has 400 wagons enroute to him at all times. "Eight years of war have left our roads, bridges and ferrys in terrible condition. The soldiers and teamsters that convey the supplies to the army are always at risk." Injuries hauling revolutionary war supplies were common. In mid Oct 1784, General Washington was inspecting West Point. (Author, Donald Moran of SAR)
Only one child is known to have stayed in Hanover Twp., his daughter Jennet (wife of Captain James McCreight). She was buried at the Old Hanover Churchyard in Grantville, (current day) Dauphin County, Pennsylvania with her husband and some children. Another daughter Sarah, married John Wilson, and were still in Pennsylvania, but in current Franklin County. Son, William died between the dates of his father's will (Apr 1783) and probate (Oct 1783) and suspect he could have been with his father when he passed. Son David, Jr. remained in Hanover Twp., to get married in Oct 1792, have a daughter and then settled in Augusta County, Virginia.
My family tradition from the 1800's says that two sons of David's went south, one to Tennessee and one to Carolina (although it didn't say when or North/South). Two SUSPECTED sons, John and Alexander were found in Orange County, North Carolina. No graves have been located for them, but family records exist there, although not complete, look convincing. Alexander and John are said to both have kids with the same names in David's 1783 will, supporting a family connection, but I have yet to see a document showing this. Turns out Alexander's son David went to Maury County, Tennessee for a spell, but later died in Illinois in 1854.
The last son to leave Hanover Twp. Pennsylvania, was the youngest son, David Strain, Jr. following his 1792 marriage and birth of his first child, Rebecca (no doubt, named for Elizabeth Allen's mother, Rebecca). He went south down the Indian trail, settling in (Greenville) Augusta County, Virginia per his deeded land there, 15 Sep 1795. David, Jr.'s second and next child was named David Strain and the tradition continued (through the 1900's) of naming sons after this pioneer man, whom immigrated here, cleared the land, struggled with the Indians, raised his family and fought for our country's independent future.
Lastly, I must note there were other Strain/Strean/Strayens in the same area in Hanover Township in 1749 (+ 1 in 1739: Robert, possibly the son of John, d 1752, on a land doc). My David's land bordered that of an older John Strayen, (positively connected to the Strain surname with a land doc), who died testate in 1752, with several children, including a son David. In fact, he left his family bible to this David (if only). I only follow the trail here on one David Strain (best I can tell), not 2, so IF there was a 2nd one, he did not live here based on the records I've found. There was another early David Strain, with land in SC and NC, but his trail also is not complete. Was this the other David, son of John? Maybe he resided elsewhere and was just purchasing land for an investment (like mine did). Did David the son of John Strayen stay or go? So many possible connections, but not enough to confirm either. From experience wills usually list children in order of age. So it would appear that John's son David would have been older than Gilbert (below born in about 1715, aged 88). Now there is no proof that John is or is not this David's father. I could go either way on this at times and I've really tried to connect them, but I do not believe he is. John's will also mentions a cousin Alexander and a David Strayen/Strean witnesses it with an X, but could not appear to witness it at Court per the local Reverend's statement. This David should not have been John's son, if he witnessed the will, not that rules weren't broken then. My David, died 1783, signed his will with a mark (due to an injury like my family folklore says or more than likely couldn't write. No previous records of a David here that could write and it appears most settlers could not. They were Scots-Irish farmers escaping their Scottish mother lands or adopted Ulster lands (read Senator Jas Webb's book, Born Fighting). If I had to guess at the moment, I'd guess my David is this John's nephew due to age of kids and death, service in the revolutionary war age limits, etc. I've only found one source (New Hope Church) that believe my David is the son of John, died 1752, but it is based on memory of an elderly man and there are known errors in this source. I'd just like to find some other documentation to back it up to present it properly.
On the other side, a Rev. John Strain, 1731-1774 died in York County, Pennsylvania with a brother David. David refused to settle his dear brothers' estate so his mother in law, Jean Strain did. My David was alive during this time, and signed his name with a mark in 1783. Also see Western Pennsylvania. Historical Magazine, Vol. 17, p. 33, article called The Narrative Of A Pioneer Preacher: George M. Scott. IF this connects, my David, then Gilbert can't also be his brother, as Gilbert's brother John died in 1760. Plus in the same Hanover Townhip, a Thomas Strain also applied for a plot of land on the same day in 1765, as did this David. Were they connected also?
DAVID STRAIN Lancaster County, Pennsylvania Will Book D, 1, page 365-7, 1783. Below is taken from the original will (The original will is recorded by the registrar who copies it in his own handwriting. The recorded will skips a small paragraph and made small minor spelling changes and capitalized different words.):
In the Name of God Amen this Twenty fifth day of Aprile one thousand seven hundred and Eighty three. I David Strean of hanover township, Lancaster County and State of Pensylvania being seeck and weak in body but in perfect mind and memory and Calling to mind the mortality of my Body and that it is appointed for all men once to die do therefore make Conftitute and ordain this my Last Will and Teftament and firft I recomend my Spirit to God Who gave it, and my Body I recomend to the Earth to be Buried in Defent Burial order Nothing Doubting But I Shall recive it again at the general Resurrection by the mighty power of God. and touching such Worldly Eftate as it hath pleafed Almighty God to blefs me With in this life. I do bequeath, give Demise and Difpofe of the same as followeth wiz. first I give and Bequeath to my Well beloved Wife Elifabath Strean the one third of all my Estate Real and perfonal to her, her heirs and affigns for Ever. Also I give and Bequeath to My Son John Strean the Sum of Ten pounds. Also I give and Bequeath to my Son in Law James McCright the Sum of Ten Pounds. Also I give and Bequeath to my Son in Law John Wilfon the Sum of Ten Pounds. and it is my Will that these three Sums Bequeathed to my three Children be paid to Each of them at the End of five years after my internment. Also I give and Bequeath to my Son Alexander Strean one Horfe Colt of a Bay Colour with some White on his face. Also I allow and it is my Will that my Children be mintane - till they Come to Maturity and that such of them be schooled as hath not got Common learning this I allow to be done from the Benefites of my Estate. Also I will that when my Youngest Child then living is Twenty one years old that then and not till then my Whole Eftate both Real and Perfonal Be sold Excepting Such Articles as are here Demifed Before; also I allow that the price of this my real and perfonal Eftate be at the Difpofal of my beloved Wife Elizabath Strean to give it to my Children now unmarried; as she my Wife shall see Caufe to order Excepting Twenty Pounds Which Twenty Pounds I give and Bequeath to my Son David Strean when he Comes to Twenty one Years old and this I allow to him over and above his Part With the Rest of my unmarried Children and I do conftitute and ordain my Beloved Wife Elizabath Strean and my Son William Strean to be the Whole and Sole Executors of this my last Will and testament: (turn over) - And I do difallow Revock and difannull all other Wills Executors Legacys or Bequeath in any wife Before named by me only Ratifieng and Confirming this and no other to be my laft Will and Teftament in Wittnefs whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal Day and year above written David Strean(seal) - Signed sealed and pronounced in presence of us William Cathcart
James Caldwell
(MISSING on the recorded will but on the ORIGINAL will it says below the mark of David
William Cathcart & James Caldwell the witnefses Sworn.
Elizabeth Strean the Surviving
Exen. Sworn - the other Exor.dead.
October the 3d 1783-
Cor.me
James Jacks Regt.
Lancaster County fs.
On the third Day of October in the Year of our Lord One thousand Seven hundred and Eighty three, before me the Subscriber personally appeared William Cathcart and James Caldwell the two Subscribing Witnefses to the foregoing Will and being duly sworn on the Holy Evangelists of the Almightly God did severally depose and say that they were present, and saw and heard David Strean the Testator above named fign feal publish pronounce and declare the foregoing Writing as and for his Last Will and Testament, and that at the doing thereof he was of sound and well disposing Mind, Memory and Understanding to the best of their Knowledge Observation and Belief. James Jacks Reg. (Registrar)
Be it remembered that on the third Day of October in the Year of our Lord One thousand Seven hundred and Eighty three, the Last Will and Testament of David Strean late of Hanover Township in the County of Lancaster, Yeoman deceused was proved in due Forn of Law and Letters Testamentary thereon were granted to Elizabeth Strean the Surviving Executrix therein named, She being first duly qualified well and truly to administer the Estate of the said Deceased and especially to exhibit a true and perfect Inventory thereof into the Register's Office at Lancaster on or before the third Day of November next and to render a just and true Account of her Administration on the said Estate within one year or when there unto lawfully required
Given under the Seal of the said Office P me.
James Jacks Reg. (Registrar)
I held this original 1783 document that David marked and held, even though he did not pen it. What a thrill!
The following is about Scottish naming patterns popular in this age. Parents David & Elizabeth had 6 known kids: John, Jennet, Sarah (Mrs. Jno Wilson), William, Alexander and David. David's son William died between 25 April and 3 October 1783 and is not known to have a family of his own. That leaves five. I can positively connect 3 of David's 5 children: Jennet, Sarah and David. Two are not yet proven (fit the data) but believed to be: John and Alexander. Of these five married children, all had children named: Elizabeth, Alexander, David and William, 4 of 5 had Sarah and Alexander, 3 had a John and one had an unnamed infant. It breaks down like this:
1) John (presumed): David, Wm, Alexander, Elizabeth, Sarah;
2) Jennet: Elizabeth, David, William, Sarah;
3) Sarah: David, John, William, Sarah, Alexander, Elizabeth;
4) Alexander (presumed): Alexander, David, Elizabeth "Betsy," John, William and Sarah;
5) David: David, John, Wm, Alexander, Elizabeth, unnamed infant.
Searching for the elusive Strains, I traveled throughout Scotland but found absolutely nothing there to connect our Strains, although it was a slightly different name there. I perused the records at New Register House in Edinburgh.
In 1998, I was privileged to have traveled to beautiful County Down, Northern Ireland and elsewhere, while my husband was working in Bray for about 3 months. I did my own Irish Strain research as much as I could, and leaving County Down, had to pay a local genealogist to further my research there in Belfast's genealogical records (due to the Troubles, at the time around "voting day"). No one could get in. Sadly nothing could connect our David Strain to County Down, despite the several (much younger) Strain graves I found in the area. The records are not complete. Practically all of my family surnames still exist in Northern Ireland today. Like Scotland, it's such a BEAUTIFUL country still and I can see why our kin settled in Augusta and Rockbridge Counties, VA, as there are a lot of similarities in the land and climate. Maybe more time in Northern Ireland records would bare something.
NOTES:
1)Found gravestones for Jennet, Sarah and David. The other 3 have not been located but are documented below to keep the family intact.
2)I SUSPECT that there is a family connection with William Cathcart (buried at the Old Hanover Presbyterian Churchyard, near Jennet Strain McCreight) and his wife Sarah (surname unknown), as he has written many documents for this local Strain/Strean/Strayn family. His handwriting (not the court clerk) matches on several documents and he witnesses them. Elizabeth named a son William as well. Was David's wife Elizabeth, a Cathcart or were one of the local Strains married to a Cathcart daughter or was Mrs. William Cathcart, a Strain?
"John Cathcart, to the care of Mr. Strain, York county." List of Letters remaining in the Poft-Office at Lancafter, 19 Dec 1771 issue of the Pennsylvania Gazette (Philadelphia), p 4. Perhaps a connection to Rev. John Strain's dear brother David. William Cathcart, died 8 Jan 1797 resided in West Hanover, Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. He signed multiple Strain documents and had a family there. Cathcart could have been a Strain wife's maiden name. In 1774, Rev. John Strain died in York County and this letter appears to connect the Cathcarts again to the Strains.
David's burial location is undocumented. I suspect it is either on his homestead or at the Old Hanover Presbyterian Churchyard. They lived very close to this church. The church does not have any records as yet found for the period 1740 to about 1788. In June 1745, recorded Minutes of the Presbytery mention Hanover and Rev. Sankey. David's wife, son David and daughter Jennet were members there in 1788 and David, Jr. was married there in 1792. The church pastors revolved for many years, going from church to church. It was written in 1878's The Historical Sketch of Old Hanover Church, by Rev. Thomas H. Robinson, D.D., that "the well-filled grave-yard, where many an UNMARKED MOUND, many a well-worn MOSS-COVERED STONE, with the better-preserved memorial of later times..." Incidentally, there is plenty of empty space near the markers of James & Jennet S McCreight, Wm Cathcart and kin Wm and Sarah Allen. David's wife, Elizabeth last lived with the McCreights, who lived next to David and Elizabeth's homestead.
There are many people, in the Old Hanover churchyard in the enclosed walls and outside of it, that also do not have gravestones, with names and dates. The source below says, there were about 1157 graves, with 879 markers, at unknown date. Yet today there are less than 300 existing old markers. The surrounding about 700' cemetery wall, was originally built in 1797 by assessing church members, including my kin. It has been repaired many times since then, including most recently, in about 2006. East Hanover Township, Dauphin County, Pennsylvania, Bicentennial Celebration, 1776-1976, Ruth Carlson Editor, Bicentennial Book Committee (page 63-64). There are several spaces without markers beside daughter Jennet McCreight's family.
The surname Strain was not used in Scotland before about 1800. It appears to have been used in N. Ireland, after the Ulster Scotts arrived. My best bet is on the surname Straughan. An earlier neighbor and probable relation of David's, named Gilbert Strain changed his name in NC to Strayhorn, "to make it sound." His children appear to have used both names. The poll (head) tax created a need for surnames in about the 1600's up to then, not commonly used. If you've heard a lot of Scottish dialects it's easy to understand the many different spellings and pronunciations even today.
Note: I have seen a James Strain added to David and Elizabeth's children but I have seen nothing to support it. I believe all of David's children are listed in his 1783 Will. All of them did not live in the area in 1783. There is just not enough solid proof to connect James. The record of this James' children do not include the normal Scottish naming pattern, as did the rest of ALL of David's children, named in the 1783 will. The mention of David's unmarried children included William, Alexander and David. D I Craig's book, A Historical Sketch of New Hope Church in Orange County, North Carolina, believes a James came to North Carolina and was the son of this David, however there are several mistakes in this source, admittedly written by an elderly man. I believe it was John Strain who settled there and married Gilbert's daughter, Mariam, and not James. I credit him for what he got right, to document this old family. Seeking more data to document these family connections.
Bio researched and written by LSP, all rights reserved. DO NOT reprint my attached photos or copy the data within
David Strain (or Strean) Sr.'s exact birth and death places and dates are unknown as yet. I believe he was born about 1727 (or before 1730), based on the ages to serve in our Revolutionary War. I suspect he was born in current day, Northern Ireland, AKA Ulster. The area he settled in here was totally Scots-Irish, meaning of Scots heritage, having resided in Northern Ireland. Those Brits encouraged them to come to Northern Ireland, then made it impossible to live there. From 1720 onward, the Scots-Irish left en masse for ye new world colonies. Freedom to practice Presbyterianism was a major cause, ability to eat, clothe, and work, another. They wanted freedom. The exact surname used in Scotland is not documented but it was not Strain. Strain is found only in later records from about the 1800's in Scotland and N. Ireland, from what I've found. Suspect it was closer to Strathairn or Strayhorn (see Gilbert below). It's possible it was anglicized after arriving in America, by those who could write. Most all of my Scots-Irish kin's names were altered by a few letters in America. It was a brave new beginning and under the circumstances, I guess they wanted to acknowledge their new life on this continent.
David was documented first in Hanover Township, (then) Lancaster County, Pennsylvania from 1750, as a possible shoemaker (1 tax report only), on tax/assessment lists, surveys, land applications, land plots plans, land warrants, militia lists and oaths through to 1783. He "squatted" on his land as was customarily done (by all of his neighbors), often until they cleared some land, etc. There are many people, in the Old Hanover churchyard in the enclosed walls and outside of it, that also do not have a gravestone with names and dates. The source below says, there were about 1157 graves, with 879 markers, at unknown date. Yet today there are less than 300 existing old markers. The surrounding about 700' cemetery wall, was originally (or at one time) built in 1797 by assessing church members, including my kin. It has been repaired many times since then, including more recently, in about 2006. East Hanover Township, Dauphin County, Pennsylvania, Bicentennial Celebration, 1776-1976, Ruth Carlson Editor, Bicentennial Book Committee (page 63-64). There are several empty spaces without markers beside daughter Jennet Strain McCreight and her family at the Old Hanover Presbyterian Church Cemetery. I suspect David, his wife Elizabeth, son William (also died in 1783) could easily be buried there.
See Anthony McCreight/McCrait's 1754 surveyed plat map. It is on his son Capt. James McCreight's site. James was the husband of David's daughter, Jennet. Anthony's site is bordering neighbor David Strain's land in 1754. This recreated map was assembled from the original record on file in the Dept. of Internal Affairs of Pennsylvania, per Act of Assembly 16 Feb 1833 and 72 years later 20 Dec 1905, this copy was recorded again.
See John Strain's surveyed plat map dated 28 April 1762 on John Strayn's site, showing bordering neighbor David Strain to his west, Anthony McCreat to his south (yellow highlighter).
1765, "Lancafter County fs. 28th Augt 1765 in Hanover Township, That I have known the Bearer here of David "Strain" - Living on his place then years free of Any Disputes The Place And Improvements Shall Cerified by Me this 26 Auguft 1765, Adam Reed. David Strain 100 as (acres) Rounded with Antoney McCreight on the South, Robart Hill on the South & Robart Mcllard on the North. Tupofe 100 Ac____ Recd_______
On the 1773 Hanover, Lancaster County, Pennsylvania Tax List, I found David "Strain" with 80 acres, value 100, horses value: 24, and cows value: 10. Thomas "Strain" is also on this list. A 2nd one Ancestry lists as 1773 Hanover, Lancaster County, Pennsylvania states for David "Strain:" 80 land, 2 horses, 7 cows, total value 75, oath of "alegiance" mark ditto D, Garde Honey Tax 1 - 10 - 0,, State Money Tax 1- 5-0.
On the 1779 Hanover, Lancaster County, Pennsylvania Tax List, I found David "Strain" with land 80, horses 2, cows 4, cash 375, 2d Contl Tax 1779 33, money tax 4, 13, first 2 months tax 1780: 75, 6, pounds - ditto: 75, 6.
I personally assembled and drew one of the maps in photo on right using purchased (Pennsylvania Archives) plat maps and the 2 $35. Warrantee Tract maps of Dauphin County. Lebanon County does NOT have a redrawn Warrantee Tract map like the one in Dauphin County for E. and W. Hanover Twp. David Strain (and others) were not included on the Dauphin County map since in 1813, the same land previously in Lancaster County, then Dauphin, became Lebanon County, on the border with Dauphin. The plat shapes fit perfectly to the Dauphin County. map. Do not REPRODUCE.
His will was made in Hanover Township on 25 Apr 1783 (when he was sick and weak in body) and it was probated on 3 Oct 1783, in then Lancaster County, Pennsylvania Will (D, page 365-67), as was his complete inventory. He signed it with a mark and it was witnessed by William Cathcart and James Caldwell. Based on these documents he died between 25 April and 3 Oct 1783. Noah's first American dictionary wasn't even printed yet and accepted spellings were a-changing. The majority of citizens could not write, but they could clear and farm the land, build a home, and fight the Indians and Brits for their freedom. They also could meet at Presbyterian Meeting Houses, where they met socially with their neighbors, who were all on pretty large plots of land.
Sadly, there isn't a surviving record of David or his wife's death or gravestone to memorialize them. His home was located close to the Old Hanover Churchyard, near Bow Creek. It is documented that this churchyard has many unmarked or illegible gravestones as well. It's first pastor began there in 1738. The cemetery began much later.
David's will (original & the recorded copy) records his wife Elizabeth, children: John, Jennet, Mrs. John Wilson, and 3 unmarried children: Alexander and David (Jr.), plus William. The executors were his wife and son William. In 1785, Elizabeth warranted and patented his land (87 acres on warrant #1025 and patent Vol. P, Book 4, page 158) in her name ("Elizabeth Strain") and refers to David Strain's 1783 will. In April 1783, I suspect the only children living in Hanover were Janet (Mrs. McCreight), Alexander, David Jr. and William. John was not on any record. Mrs. John Wilson AKA Sarah Strain Wilson was living in Franklin County, Pennsylvania
In June 1776, David, Sr. is documented serving in the local Hanover Militia (using "Strean" or similar). The military records also are not complete. 6 Jun 1776, Capt. James Roger's Company included Privates David Strean, (Thomas Strean and Wm Kithcart - Cathcart). "The return of Capt. James Rogers' company of militia of Col Timothy Green's Hanover Rifle Battalion of Lancaster County Associators, destined for the camp in the Jerseys, 6th Jun 1776." He took the oath in May 1778 and May 1779.
Son David, Jr. married a local girl at Old Hanover Church in October 1792 and her grandparents are buried at this cemetery.
There's a big gap in the church records from 1738, to 1780's other than a few marriages here and there, with the traveling Presbyterian ministers. Widower Elizabeth Strain was a member of the same Old Hanover Church and contributed to the stonewall surrounding the cemetery (still there), as did her son in law, James McCreight. The 1796 Dauphin County tax list includes Elizabeth's 80 acres containing 1 house, 1 ½ stories high, of stone construction with a log barn, a small out house with 1 horned cattle, valued at £222. In 1803, Elizabeth Strain made an indenture in (now) Dauphin County to her grandson David McCreight (Deed Book P-1-450) for part of her land, signing it with her mark. It was recorded four years later on 7 Dec 1807. Elizabeth "Shean" and her grandson David McCreight are recorded side by side on the 1810 W. Hanover Township, Dauphin County Census and then Elizabeth disappears. In 1813, her land was on the eastern border of Dauphin in now, Lebanon County on its western border.
My older relatives (great grand dad, named after him and born 46 years after his 1783 death, plus his sister, daughter and a D.A.R. applicant) believed David was born in County Down, Northern Ireland OR Scotland, in about 1720 to 1730 but it hasn't been proven. To serve in the militia, he was probably born closer to 1730. Family tradition (1 recorded in 1899, by his great grandson) says he fell sick or (his great granddaughter says) was crossing a bridge that gave way, while hauling supplies during the war. D.A.R. Ancestor #A111047.
Now David was ill in April 1783 when he made his will, possibly from injuries in the war. His will was recorded and presented with his estate inventory on the same day in Oct 1783, so he died somewhere BETWEEN THESE DATES. Or maybe he recovered after the illness and signed up to break down the remaining posts from the war which were carried out even after Oct 1783. The battle of Yorktown took place in Oct 1781, with the surrender of Cornwallis. However, it took the signing of the Treaty of Paris on 3 Sep 1783, to officially end it. Representatives from our colonies, France, Great Britain and even Spain signed it, recognizing our independence. Not having phones or the internet, it took time to get the word back to Pennsylvania and elsewhere. A voyage could take 2 months across the pond. All the damage from the war didn't go away in a day, it took time to make repairs.
Further support is found In Newburgh, NY, in Oct 1783, where Major Caleb Gibbs was serving, they still received "upward of 20 wagons a day of supplies." Wagons made 6 to 10 miles a day on average and he has 400 wagons enroute to him at all times. "Eight years of war have left our roads, bridges and ferrys in terrible condition. The soldiers and teamsters that convey the supplies to the army are always at risk." Injuries hauling revolutionary war supplies were common. In mid Oct 1784, General Washington was inspecting West Point. (Author, Donald Moran of SAR)
Only one child is known to have stayed in Hanover Twp., his daughter Jennet (wife of Captain James McCreight). She was buried at the Old Hanover Churchyard in Grantville, (current day) Dauphin County, Pennsylvania with her husband and some children. Another daughter Sarah, married John Wilson, and were still in Pennsylvania, but in current Franklin County. Son, William died between the dates of his father's will (Apr 1783) and probate (Oct 1783) and suspect he could have been with his father when he passed. Son David, Jr. remained in Hanover Twp., to get married in Oct 1792, have a daughter and then settled in Augusta County, Virginia.
My family tradition from the 1800's says that two sons of David's went south, one to Tennessee and one to Carolina (although it didn't say when or North/South). Two SUSPECTED sons, John and Alexander were found in Orange County, North Carolina. No graves have been located for them, but family records exist there, although not complete, look convincing. Alexander and John are said to both have kids with the same names in David's 1783 will, supporting a family connection, but I have yet to see a document showing this. Turns out Alexander's son David went to Maury County, Tennessee for a spell, but later died in Illinois in 1854.
The last son to leave Hanover Twp. Pennsylvania, was the youngest son, David Strain, Jr. following his 1792 marriage and birth of his first child, Rebecca (no doubt, named for Elizabeth Allen's mother, Rebecca). He went south down the Indian trail, settling in (Greenville) Augusta County, Virginia per his deeded land there, 15 Sep 1795. David, Jr.'s second and next child was named David Strain and the tradition continued (through the 1900's) of naming sons after this pioneer man, whom immigrated here, cleared the land, struggled with the Indians, raised his family and fought for our country's independent future.
Lastly, I must note there were other Strain/Strean/Strayens in the same area in Hanover Township in 1749 (+ 1 in 1739: Robert, possibly the son of John, d 1752, on a land doc). My David's land bordered that of an older John Strayen, (positively connected to the Strain surname with a land doc), who died testate in 1752, with several children, including a son David. In fact, he left his family bible to this David (if only). I only follow the trail here on one David Strain (best I can tell), not 2, so IF there was a 2nd one, he did not live here based on the records I've found. There was another early David Strain, with land in SC and NC, but his trail also is not complete. Was this the other David, son of John? Maybe he resided elsewhere and was just purchasing land for an investment (like mine did). Did David the son of John Strayen stay or go? So many possible connections, but not enough to confirm either. From experience wills usually list children in order of age. So it would appear that John's son David would have been older than Gilbert (below born in about 1715, aged 88). Now there is no proof that John is or is not this David's father. I could go either way on this at times and I've really tried to connect them, but I do not believe he is. John's will also mentions a cousin Alexander and a David Strayen/Strean witnesses it with an X, but could not appear to witness it at Court per the local Reverend's statement. This David should not have been John's son, if he witnessed the will, not that rules weren't broken then. My David, died 1783, signed his will with a mark (due to an injury like my family folklore says or more than likely couldn't write. No previous records of a David here that could write and it appears most settlers could not. They were Scots-Irish farmers escaping their Scottish mother lands or adopted Ulster lands (read Senator Jas Webb's book, Born Fighting). If I had to guess at the moment, I'd guess my David is this John's nephew due to age of kids and death, service in the revolutionary war age limits, etc. I've only found one source (New Hope Church) that believe my David is the son of John, died 1752, but it is based on memory of an elderly man and there are known errors in this source. I'd just like to find some other documentation to back it up to present it properly.
On the other side, a Rev. John Strain, 1731-1774 died in York County, Pennsylvania with a brother David. David refused to settle his dear brothers' estate so his mother in law, Jean Strain did. My David was alive during this time, and signed his name with a mark in 1783. Also see Western Pennsylvania. Historical Magazine, Vol. 17, p. 33, article called The Narrative Of A Pioneer Preacher: George M. Scott. IF this connects, my David, then Gilbert can't also be his brother, as Gilbert's brother John died in 1760. Plus in the same Hanover Townhip, a Thomas Strain also applied for a plot of land on the same day in 1765, as did this David. Were they connected also?
DAVID STRAIN Lancaster County, Pennsylvania Will Book D, 1, page 365-7, 1783. Below is taken from the original will (The original will is recorded by the registrar who copies it in his own handwriting. The recorded will skips a small paragraph and made small minor spelling changes and capitalized different words.):
In the Name of God Amen this Twenty fifth day of Aprile one thousand seven hundred and Eighty three. I David Strean of hanover township, Lancaster County and State of Pensylvania being seeck and weak in body but in perfect mind and memory and Calling to mind the mortality of my Body and that it is appointed for all men once to die do therefore make Conftitute and ordain this my Last Will and Teftament and firft I recomend my Spirit to God Who gave it, and my Body I recomend to the Earth to be Buried in Defent Burial order Nothing Doubting But I Shall recive it again at the general Resurrection by the mighty power of God. and touching such Worldly Eftate as it hath pleafed Almighty God to blefs me With in this life. I do bequeath, give Demise and Difpofe of the same as followeth wiz. first I give and Bequeath to my Well beloved Wife Elifabath Strean the one third of all my Estate Real and perfonal to her, her heirs and affigns for Ever. Also I give and Bequeath to My Son John Strean the Sum of Ten pounds. Also I give and Bequeath to my Son in Law James McCright the Sum of Ten Pounds. Also I give and Bequeath to my Son in Law John Wilfon the Sum of Ten Pounds. and it is my Will that these three Sums Bequeathed to my three Children be paid to Each of them at the End of five years after my internment. Also I give and Bequeath to my Son Alexander Strean one Horfe Colt of a Bay Colour with some White on his face. Also I allow and it is my Will that my Children be mintane - till they Come to Maturity and that such of them be schooled as hath not got Common learning this I allow to be done from the Benefites of my Estate. Also I will that when my Youngest Child then living is Twenty one years old that then and not till then my Whole Eftate both Real and Perfonal Be sold Excepting Such Articles as are here Demifed Before; also I allow that the price of this my real and perfonal Eftate be at the Difpofal of my beloved Wife Elizabath Strean to give it to my Children now unmarried; as she my Wife shall see Caufe to order Excepting Twenty Pounds Which Twenty Pounds I give and Bequeath to my Son David Strean when he Comes to Twenty one Years old and this I allow to him over and above his Part With the Rest of my unmarried Children and I do conftitute and ordain my Beloved Wife Elizabath Strean and my Son William Strean to be the Whole and Sole Executors of this my last Will and testament: (turn over) - And I do difallow Revock and difannull all other Wills Executors Legacys or Bequeath in any wife Before named by me only Ratifieng and Confirming this and no other to be my laft Will and Teftament in Wittnefs whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal Day and year above written David Strean(seal) - Signed sealed and pronounced in presence of us William Cathcart
James Caldwell
(MISSING on the recorded will but on the ORIGINAL will it says below the mark of David
William Cathcart & James Caldwell the witnefses Sworn.
Elizabeth Strean the Surviving
Exen. Sworn - the other Exor.dead.
October the 3d 1783-
Cor.me
James Jacks Regt.
Lancaster County fs.
On the third Day of October in the Year of our Lord One thousand Seven hundred and Eighty three, before me the Subscriber personally appeared William Cathcart and James Caldwell the two Subscribing Witnefses to the foregoing Will and being duly sworn on the Holy Evangelists of the Almightly God did severally depose and say that they were present, and saw and heard David Strean the Testator above named fign feal publish pronounce and declare the foregoing Writing as and for his Last Will and Testament, and that at the doing thereof he was of sound and well disposing Mind, Memory and Understanding to the best of their Knowledge Observation and Belief. James Jacks Reg. (Registrar)
Be it remembered that on the third Day of October in the Year of our Lord One thousand Seven hundred and Eighty three, the Last Will and Testament of David Strean late of Hanover Township in the County of Lancaster, Yeoman deceused was proved in due Forn of Law and Letters Testamentary thereon were granted to Elizabeth Strean the Surviving Executrix therein named, She being first duly qualified well and truly to administer the Estate of the said Deceased and especially to exhibit a true and perfect Inventory thereof into the Register's Office at Lancaster on or before the third Day of November next and to render a just and true Account of her Administration on the said Estate within one year or when there unto lawfully required
Given under the Seal of the said Office P me.
James Jacks Reg. (Registrar)
I held this original 1783 document that David marked and held, even though he did not pen it. What a thrill!
The following is about Scottish naming patterns popular in this age. Parents David & Elizabeth had 6 known kids: John, Jennet, Sarah (Mrs. Jno Wilson), William, Alexander and David. David's son William died between 25 April and 3 October 1783 and is not known to have a family of his own. That leaves five. I can positively connect 3 of David's 5 children: Jennet, Sarah and David. Two are not yet proven (fit the data) but believed to be: John and Alexander. Of these five married children, all had children named: Elizabeth, Alexander, David and William, 4 of 5 had Sarah and Alexander, 3 had a John and one had an unnamed infant. It breaks down like this:
1) John (presumed): David, Wm, Alexander, Elizabeth, Sarah;
2) Jennet: Elizabeth, David, William, Sarah;
3) Sarah: David, John, William, Sarah, Alexander, Elizabeth;
4) Alexander (presumed): Alexander, David, Elizabeth "Betsy," John, William and Sarah;
5) David: David, John, Wm, Alexander, Elizabeth, unnamed infant.
Searching for the elusive Strains, I traveled throughout Scotland but found absolutely nothing there to connect our Strains, although it was a slightly different name there. I perused the records at New Register House in Edinburgh.
In 1998, I was privileged to have traveled to beautiful County Down, Northern Ireland and elsewhere, while my husband was working in Bray for about 3 months. I did my own Irish Strain research as much as I could, and leaving County Down, had to pay a local genealogist to further my research there in Belfast's genealogical records (due to the Troubles, at the time around "voting day"). No one could get in. Sadly nothing could connect our David Strain to County Down, despite the several (much younger) Strain graves I found in the area. The records are not complete. Practically all of my family surnames still exist in Northern Ireland today. Like Scotland, it's such a BEAUTIFUL country still and I can see why our kin settled in Augusta and Rockbridge Counties, VA, as there are a lot of similarities in the land and climate. Maybe more time in Northern Ireland records would bare something.
NOTES:
1)Found gravestones for Jennet, Sarah and David. The other 3 have not been located but are documented below to keep the family intact.
2)I SUSPECT that there is a family connection with William Cathcart (buried at the Old Hanover Presbyterian Churchyard, near Jennet Strain McCreight) and his wife Sarah (surname unknown), as he has written many documents for this local Strain/Strean/Strayn family. His handwriting (not the court clerk) matches on several documents and he witnesses them. Elizabeth named a son William as well. Was David's wife Elizabeth, a Cathcart or were one of the local Strains married to a Cathcart daughter or was Mrs. William Cathcart, a Strain?
"John Cathcart, to the care of Mr. Strain, York county." List of Letters remaining in the Poft-Office at Lancafter, 19 Dec 1771 issue of the Pennsylvania Gazette (Philadelphia), p 4. Perhaps a connection to Rev. John Strain's dear brother David. William Cathcart, died 8 Jan 1797 resided in West Hanover, Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. He signed multiple Strain documents and had a family there. Cathcart could have been a Strain wife's maiden name. In 1774, Rev. John Strain died in York County and this letter appears to connect the Cathcarts again to the Strains.
David's burial location is undocumented. I suspect it is either on his homestead or at the Old Hanover Presbyterian Churchyard. They lived very close to this church. The church does not have any records as yet found for the period 1740 to about 1788. In June 1745, recorded Minutes of the Presbytery mention Hanover and Rev. Sankey. David's wife, son David and daughter Jennet were members there in 1788 and David, Jr. was married there in 1792. The church pastors revolved for many years, going from church to church. It was written in 1878's The Historical Sketch of Old Hanover Church, by Rev. Thomas H. Robinson, D.D., that "the well-filled grave-yard, where many an UNMARKED MOUND, many a well-worn MOSS-COVERED STONE, with the better-preserved memorial of later times..." Incidentally, there is plenty of empty space near the markers of James & Jennet S McCreight, Wm Cathcart and kin Wm and Sarah Allen. David's wife, Elizabeth last lived with the McCreights, who lived next to David and Elizabeth's homestead.
There are many people, in the Old Hanover churchyard in the enclosed walls and outside of it, that also do not have gravestones, with names and dates. The source below says, there were about 1157 graves, with 879 markers, at unknown date. Yet today there are less than 300 existing old markers. The surrounding about 700' cemetery wall, was originally built in 1797 by assessing church members, including my kin. It has been repaired many times since then, including most recently, in about 2006. East Hanover Township, Dauphin County, Pennsylvania, Bicentennial Celebration, 1776-1976, Ruth Carlson Editor, Bicentennial Book Committee (page 63-64). There are several spaces without markers beside daughter Jennet McCreight's family.
The surname Strain was not used in Scotland before about 1800. It appears to have been used in N. Ireland, after the Ulster Scotts arrived. My best bet is on the surname Straughan. An earlier neighbor and probable relation of David's, named Gilbert Strain changed his name in NC to Strayhorn, "to make it sound." His children appear to have used both names. The poll (head) tax created a need for surnames in about the 1600's up to then, not commonly used. If you've heard a lot of Scottish dialects it's easy to understand the many different spellings and pronunciations even today.
Note: I have seen a James Strain added to David and Elizabeth's children but I have seen nothing to support it. I believe all of David's children are listed in his 1783 Will. All of them did not live in the area in 1783. There is just not enough solid proof to connect James. The record of this James' children do not include the normal Scottish naming pattern, as did the rest of ALL of David's children, named in the 1783 will. The mention of David's unmarried children included William, Alexander and David. D I Craig's book, A Historical Sketch of New Hope Church in Orange County, North Carolina, believes a James came to North Carolina and was the son of this David, however there are several mistakes in this source, admittedly written by an elderly man. I believe it was John Strain who settled there and married Gilbert's daughter, Mariam, and not James. I credit him for what he got right, to document this old family. Seeking more data to document these family connections.
Bio researched and written by LSP, all rights reserved. DO NOT reprint my attached photos or copy the data within
David was documented first in Hanover Township, (then) Lancaster County, Pennsylvania from 1750, as a possible shoemaker (1 tax report only), on tax/assessment lists, surveys, land applications, land plots plans, land warrants, militia lists and oaths through to 1783. He "squatted" on his land as was customarily done (by all of his neighbors), often until they cleared some land, etc. There are many people, in the Old Hanover churchyard in the enclosed walls and outside of it, that also do not have a gravestone with names and dates. The source below says, there were about 1157 graves, with 879 markers, at unknown date. Yet today there are less than 300 existing old markers. The surrounding about 700' cemetery wall, was originally (or at one time) built in 1797 by assessing church members, including my kin. It has been repaired many times since then, including more recently, in about 2006. East Hanover Township, Dauphin County, Pennsylvania, Bicentennial Celebration, 1776-1976, Ruth Carlson Editor, Bicentennial Book Committee (page 63-64). There are several empty spaces without markers beside daughter Jennet Strain McCreight and her family at the Old Hanover Presbyterian Church Cemetery. I suspect David, his wife Elizabeth, son William (also died in 1783) could easily be buried there.
See Anthony McCreight/McCrait's 1754 surveyed plat map. It is on his son Capt. James McCreight's site. James was the husband of David's daughter, Jennet. Anthony's site is bordering neighbor David Strain's land in 1754. This recreated map was assembled from the original record on file in the Dept. of Internal Affairs of Pennsylvania, per Act of Assembly 16 Feb 1833 and 72 years later 20 Dec 1905, this copy was recorded again.
See John Strain's surveyed plat map dated 28 April 1762 on John Strayn's site, showing bordering neighbor David Strain to his west, Anthony McCreat to his south (yellow highlighter).
1765, "Lancafter County fs. 28th Augt 1765 in Hanover Township, That I have known the Bearer here of David "Strain" - Living on his place then years free of Any Disputes The Place And Improvements Shall Cerified by Me this 26 Auguft 1765, Adam Reed. David Strain 100 as (acres) Rounded with Antoney McCreight on the South, Robart Hill on the South & Robart Mcllard on the North. Tupofe 100 Ac____ Recd_______
On the 1773 Hanover, Lancaster County, Pennsylvania Tax List, I found David "Strain" with 80 acres, value 100, horses value: 24, and cows value: 10. Thomas "Strain" is also on this list. A 2nd one Ancestry lists as 1773 Hanover, Lancaster County, Pennsylvania states for David "Strain:" 80 land, 2 horses, 7 cows, total value 75, oath of "alegiance" mark ditto D, Garde Honey Tax 1 - 10 - 0,, State Money Tax 1- 5-0.
On the 1779 Hanover, Lancaster County, Pennsylvania Tax List, I found David "Strain" with land 80, horses 2, cows 4, cash 375, 2d Contl Tax 1779 33, money tax 4, 13, first 2 months tax 1780: 75, 6, pounds - ditto: 75, 6.
I personally assembled and drew one of the maps in photo on right using purchased (Pennsylvania Archives) plat maps and the 2 $35. Warrantee Tract maps of Dauphin County. Lebanon County does NOT have a redrawn Warrantee Tract map like the one in Dauphin County for E. and W. Hanover Twp. David Strain (and others) were not included on the Dauphin County map since in 1813, the same land previously in Lancaster County, then Dauphin, became Lebanon County, on the border with Dauphin. The plat shapes fit perfectly to the Dauphin County. map. Do not REPRODUCE.
His will was made in Hanover Township on 25 Apr 1783 (when he was sick and weak in body) and it was probated on 3 Oct 1783, in then Lancaster County, Pennsylvania Will (D, page 365-67), as was his complete inventory. He signed it with a mark and it was witnessed by William Cathcart and James Caldwell. Based on these documents he died between 25 April and 3 Oct 1783. Noah's first American dictionary wasn't even printed yet and accepted spellings were a-changing. The majority of citizens could not write, but they could clear and farm the land, build a home, and fight the Indians and Brits for their freedom. They also could meet at Presbyterian Meeting Houses, where they met socially with their neighbors, who were all on pretty large plots of land.
Sadly, there isn't a surviving record of David or his wife's death or gravestone to memorialize them. His home was located close to the Old Hanover Churchyard, near Bow Creek. It is documented that this churchyard has many unmarked or illegible gravestones as well. It's first pastor began there in 1738. The cemetery began much later.
David's will (original & the recorded copy) records his wife Elizabeth, children: John, Jennet, Mrs. John Wilson, and 3 unmarried children: Alexander and David (Jr.), plus William. The executors were his wife and son William. In 1785, Elizabeth warranted and patented his land (87 acres on warrant #1025 and patent Vol. P, Book 4, page 158) in her name ("Elizabeth Strain") and refers to David Strain's 1783 will. In April 1783, I suspect the only children living in Hanover were Janet (Mrs. McCreight), Alexander, David Jr. and William. John was not on any record. Mrs. John Wilson AKA Sarah Strain Wilson was living in Franklin County, Pennsylvania
In June 1776, David, Sr. is documented serving in the local Hanover Militia (using "Strean" or similar). The military records also are not complete. 6 Jun 1776, Capt. James Roger's Company included Privates David Strean, (Thomas Strean and Wm Kithcart - Cathcart). "The return of Capt. James Rogers' company of militia of Col Timothy Green's Hanover Rifle Battalion of Lancaster County Associators, destined for the camp in the Jerseys, 6th Jun 1776." He took the oath in May 1778 and May 1779.
Son David, Jr. married a local girl at Old Hanover Church in October 1792 and her grandparents are buried at this cemetery.
There's a big gap in the church records from 1738, to 1780's other than a few marriages here and there, with the traveling Presbyterian ministers. Widower Elizabeth Strain was a member of the same Old Hanover Church and contributed to the stonewall surrounding the cemetery (still there), as did her son in law, James McCreight. The 1796 Dauphin County tax list includes Elizabeth's 80 acres containing 1 house, 1 ½ stories high, of stone construction with a log barn, a small out house with 1 horned cattle, valued at £222. In 1803, Elizabeth Strain made an indenture in (now) Dauphin County to her grandson David McCreight (Deed Book P-1-450) for part of her land, signing it with her mark. It was recorded four years later on 7 Dec 1807. Elizabeth "Shean" and her grandson David McCreight are recorded side by side on the 1810 W. Hanover Township, Dauphin County Census and then Elizabeth disappears. In 1813, her land was on the eastern border of Dauphin in now, Lebanon County on its western border.
My older relatives (great grand dad, named after him and born 46 years after his 1783 death, plus his sister, daughter and a D.A.R. applicant) believed David was born in County Down, Northern Ireland OR Scotland, in about 1720 to 1730 but it hasn't been proven. To serve in the militia, he was probably born closer to 1730. Family tradition (1 recorded in 1899, by his great grandson) says he fell sick or (his great granddaughter says) was crossing a bridge that gave way, while hauling supplies during the war. D.A.R. Ancestor #A111047.
Now David was ill in April 1783 when he made his will, possibly from injuries in the war. His will was recorded and presented with his estate inventory on the same day in Oct 1783, so he died somewhere BETWEEN THESE DATES. Or maybe he recovered after the illness and signed up to break down the remaining posts from the war which were carried out even after Oct 1783. The battle of Yorktown took place in Oct 1781, with the surrender of Cornwallis. However, it took the signing of the Treaty of Paris on 3 Sep 1783, to officially end it. Representatives from our colonies, France, Great Britain and even Spain signed it, recognizing our independence. Not having phones or the internet, it took time to get the word back to Pennsylvania and elsewhere. A voyage could take 2 months across the pond. All the damage from the war didn't go away in a day, it took time to make repairs.
Further support is found In Newburgh, NY, in Oct 1783, where Major Caleb Gibbs was serving, they still received "upward of 20 wagons a day of supplies." Wagons made 6 to 10 miles a day on average and he has 400 wagons enroute to him at all times. "Eight years of war have left our roads, bridges and ferrys in terrible condition. The soldiers and teamsters that convey the supplies to the army are always at risk." Injuries hauling revolutionary war supplies were common. In mid Oct 1784, General Washington was inspecting West Point. (Author, Donald Moran of SAR)
Only one child is known to have stayed in Hanover Twp., his daughter Jennet (wife of Captain James McCreight). She was buried at the Old Hanover Churchyard in Grantville, (current day) Dauphin County, Pennsylvania with her husband and some children. Another daughter Sarah, married John Wilson, and were still in Pennsylvania, but in current Franklin County. Son, William died between the dates of his father's will (Apr 1783) and probate (Oct 1783) and suspect he could have been with his father when he passed. Son David, Jr. remained in Hanover Twp., to get married in Oct 1792, have a daughter and then settled in Augusta County, Virginia.
My family tradition from the 1800's says that two sons of David's went south, one to Tennessee and one to Carolina (although it didn't say when or North/South). Two SUSPECTED sons, John and Alexander were found in Orange County, North Carolina. No graves have been located for them, but family records exist there, although not complete, look convincing. Alexander and John are said to both have kids with the same names in David's 1783 will, supporting a family connection, but I have yet to see a document showing this. Turns out Alexander's son David went to Maury County, Tennessee for a spell, but later died in Illinois in 1854.
The last son to leave Hanover Twp. Pennsylvania, was the youngest son, David Strain, Jr. following his 1792 marriage and birth of his first child, Rebecca (no doubt, named for Elizabeth Allen's mother, Rebecca). He went south down the Indian trail, settling in (Greenville) Augusta County, Virginia per his deeded land there, 15 Sep 1795. David, Jr.'s second and next child was named David Strain and the tradition continued (through the 1900's) of naming sons after this pioneer man, whom immigrated here, cleared the land, struggled with the Indians, raised his family and fought for our country's independent future.
Lastly, I must note there were other Strain/Strean/Strayens in the same area in Hanover Township in 1749 (+ 1 in 1739: Robert, possibly the son of John, d 1752, on a land doc). My David's land bordered that of an older John Strayen, (positively connected to the Strain surname with a land doc), who died testate in 1752, with several children, including a son David. In fact, he left his family bible to this David (if only). I only follow the trail here on one David Strain (best I can tell), not 2, so IF there was a 2nd one, he did not live here based on the records I've found. There was another early David Strain, with land in SC and NC, but his trail also is not complete. Was this the other David, son of John? Maybe he resided elsewhere and was just purchasing land for an investment (like mine did). Did David the son of John Strayen stay or go? So many possible connections, but not enough to confirm either. From experience wills usually list children in order of age. So it would appear that John's son David would have been older than Gilbert (below born in about 1715, aged 88). Now there is no proof that John is or is not this David's father. I could go either way on this at times and I've really tried to connect them, but I do not believe he is. John's will also mentions a cousin Alexander and a David Strayen/Strean witnesses it with an X, but could not appear to witness it at Court per the local Reverend's statement. This David should not have been John's son, if he witnessed the will, not that rules weren't broken then. My David, died 1783, signed his will with a mark (due to an injury like my family folklore says or more than likely couldn't write. No previous records of a David here that could write and it appears most settlers could not. They were Scots-Irish farmers escaping their Scottish mother lands or adopted Ulster lands (read Senator Jas Webb's book, Born Fighting). If I had to guess at the moment, I'd guess my David is this John's nephew due to age of kids and death, service in the revolutionary war age limits, etc. I've only found one source (New Hope Church) that believe my David is the son of John, died 1752, but it is based on memory of an elderly man and there are known errors in this source. I'd just like to find some other documentation to back it up to present it properly.
On the other side, a Rev. John Strain, 1731-1774 died in York County, Pennsylvania with a brother David. David refused to settle his dear brothers' estate so his mother in law, Jean Strain did. My David was alive during this time, and signed his name with a mark in 1783. Also see Western Pennsylvania. Historical Magazine, Vol. 17, p. 33, article called The Narrative Of A Pioneer Preacher: George M. Scott. IF this connects, my David, then Gilbert can't also be his brother, as Gilbert's brother John died in 1760. Plus in the same Hanover Townhip, a Thomas Strain also applied for a plot of land on the same day in 1765, as did this David. Were they connected also?
DAVID STRAIN Lancaster County, Pennsylvania Will Book D, 1, page 365-7, 1783. Below is taken from the original will (The original will is recorded by the registrar who copies it in his own handwriting. The recorded will skips a small paragraph and made small minor spelling changes and capitalized different words.):
In the Name of God Amen this Twenty fifth day of Aprile one thousand seven hundred and Eighty three. I David Strean of hanover township, Lancaster County and State of Pensylvania being seeck and weak in body but in perfect mind and memory and Calling to mind the mortality of my Body and that it is appointed for all men once to die do therefore make Conftitute and ordain this my Last Will and Teftament and firft I recomend my Spirit to God Who gave it, and my Body I recomend to the Earth to be Buried in Defent Burial order Nothing Doubting But I Shall recive it again at the general Resurrection by the mighty power of God. and touching such Worldly Eftate as it hath pleafed Almighty God to blefs me With in this life. I do bequeath, give Demise and Difpofe of the same as followeth wiz. first I give and Bequeath to my Well beloved Wife Elifabath Strean the one third of all my Estate Real and perfonal to her, her heirs and affigns for Ever. Also I give and Bequeath to My Son John Strean the Sum of Ten pounds. Also I give and Bequeath to my Son in Law James McCright the Sum of Ten Pounds. Also I give and Bequeath to my Son in Law John Wilfon the Sum of Ten Pounds. and it is my Will that these three Sums Bequeathed to my three Children be paid to Each of them at the End of five years after my internment. Also I give and Bequeath to my Son Alexander Strean one Horfe Colt of a Bay Colour with some White on his face. Also I allow and it is my Will that my Children be mintane - till they Come to Maturity and that such of them be schooled as hath not got Common learning this I allow to be done from the Benefites of my Estate. Also I will that when my Youngest Child then living is Twenty one years old that then and not till then my Whole Eftate both Real and Perfonal Be sold Excepting Such Articles as are here Demifed Before; also I allow that the price of this my real and perfonal Eftate be at the Difpofal of my beloved Wife Elizabath Strean to give it to my Children now unmarried; as she my Wife shall see Caufe to order Excepting Twenty Pounds Which Twenty Pounds I give and Bequeath to my Son David Strean when he Comes to Twenty one Years old and this I allow to him over and above his Part With the Rest of my unmarried Children and I do conftitute and ordain my Beloved Wife Elizabath Strean and my Son William Strean to be the Whole and Sole Executors of this my last Will and testament: (turn over) - And I do difallow Revock and difannull all other Wills Executors Legacys or Bequeath in any wife Before named by me only Ratifieng and Confirming this and no other to be my laft Will and Teftament in Wittnefs whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal Day and year above written David Strean(seal) - Signed sealed and pronounced in presence of us William Cathcart
James Caldwell
(MISSING on the recorded will but on the ORIGINAL will it says below the mark of David
William Cathcart & James Caldwell the witnefses Sworn.
Elizabeth Strean the Surviving
Exen. Sworn - the other Exor.dead.
October the 3d 1783-
Cor.me
James Jacks Regt.
Lancaster County fs.
On the third Day of October in the Year of our Lord One thousand Seven hundred and Eighty three, before me the Subscriber personally appeared William Cathcart and James Caldwell the two Subscribing Witnefses to the foregoing Will and being duly sworn on the Holy Evangelists of the Almightly God did severally depose and say that they were present, and saw and heard David Strean the Testator above named fign feal publish pronounce and declare the foregoing Writing as and for his Last Will and Testament, and that at the doing thereof he was of sound and well disposing Mind, Memory and Understanding to the best of their Knowledge Observation and Belief. James Jacks Reg. (Registrar)
Be it remembered that on the third Day of October in the Year of our Lord One thousand Seven hundred and Eighty three, the Last Will and Testament of David Strean late of Hanover Township in the County of Lancaster, Yeoman deceused was proved in due Forn of Law and Letters Testamentary thereon were granted to Elizabeth Strean the Surviving Executrix therein named, She being first duly qualified well and truly to administer the Estate of the said Deceased and especially to exhibit a true and perfect Inventory thereof into the Register's Office at Lancaster on or before the third Day of November next and to render a just and true Account of her Administration on the said Estate within one year or when there unto lawfully required
Given under the Seal of the said Office P me.
James Jacks Reg. (Registrar)
I held this original 1783 document that David marked and held, even though he did not pen it. What a thrill!
The following is about Scottish naming patterns popular in this age. Parents David & Elizabeth had 6 known kids: John, Jennet, Sarah (Mrs. Jno Wilson), William, Alexander and David. David's son William died between 25 April and 3 October 1783 and is not known to have a family of his own. That leaves five. I can positively connect 3 of David's 5 children: Jennet, Sarah and David. Two are not yet proven (fit the data) but believed to be: John and Alexander. Of these five married children, all had children named: Elizabeth, Alexander, David and William, 4 of 5 had Sarah and Alexander, 3 had a John and one had an unnamed infant. It breaks down like this:
1) John (presumed): David, Wm, Alexander, Elizabeth, Sarah;
2) Jennet: Elizabeth, David, William, Sarah;
3) Sarah: David, John, William, Sarah, Alexander, Elizabeth;
4) Alexander (presumed): Alexander, David, Elizabeth "Betsy," John, William and Sarah;
5) David: David, John, Wm, Alexander, Elizabeth, unnamed infant.
Searching for the elusive Strains, I traveled throughout Scotland but found absolutely nothing there to connect our Strains, although it was a slightly different name there. I perused the records at New Register House in Edinburgh.
In 1998, I was privileged to have traveled to beautiful County Down, Northern Ireland and elsewhere, while my husband was working in Bray for about 3 months. I did my own Irish Strain research as much as I could, and leaving County Down, had to pay a local genealogist to further my research there in Belfast's genealogical records (due to the Troubles, at the time around "voting day"). No one could get in. Sadly nothing could connect our David Strain to County Down, despite the several (much younger) Strain graves I found in the area. The records are not complete. Practically all of my family surnames still exist in Northern Ireland today. Like Scotland, it's such a BEAUTIFUL country still and I can see why our kin settled in Augusta and Rockbridge Counties, VA, as there are a lot of similarities in the land and climate. Maybe more time in Northern Ireland records would bare something.
NOTES:
1)Found gravestones for Jennet, Sarah and David. The other 3 have not been located but are documented below to keep the family intact.
2)I SUSPECT that there is a family connection with William Cathcart (buried at the Old Hanover Presbyterian Churchyard, near Jennet Strain McCreight) and his wife Sarah (surname unknown), as he has written many documents for this local Strain/Strean/Strayn family. His handwriting (not the court clerk) matches on several documents and he witnesses them. Elizabeth named a son William as well. Was David's wife Elizabeth, a Cathcart or were one of the local Strains married to a Cathcart daughter or was Mrs. William Cathcart, a Strain?
"John Cathcart, to the care of Mr. Strain, York county." List of Letters remaining in the Poft-Office at Lancafter, 19 Dec 1771 issue of the Pennsylvania Gazette (Philadelphia), p 4. Perhaps a connection to Rev. John Strain's dear brother David. William Cathcart, died 8 Jan 1797 resided in West Hanover, Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. He signed multiple Strain documents and had a family there. Cathcart could have been a Strain wife's maiden name. In 1774, Rev. John Strain died in York County and this letter appears to connect the Cathcarts again to the Strains.
David's burial location is undocumented. I suspect it is either on his homestead or at the Old Hanover Presbyterian Churchyard. They lived very close to this church. The church does not have any records as yet found for the period 1740 to about 1788. In June 1745, recorded Minutes of the Presbytery mention Hanover and Rev. Sankey. David's wife, son David and daughter Jennet were members there in 1788 and David, Jr. was married there in 1792. The church pastors revolved for many years, going from church to church. It was written in 1878's The Historical Sketch of Old Hanover Church, by Rev. Thomas H. Robinson, D.D., that "the well-filled grave-yard, where many an UNMARKED MOUND, many a well-worn MOSS-COVERED STONE, with the better-preserved memorial of later times..." Incidentally, there is plenty of empty space near the markers of James & Jennet S McCreight, Wm Cathcart and kin Wm and Sarah Allen. David's wife, Elizabeth last lived with the McCreights, who lived next to David and Elizabeth's homestead.
There are many people, in the Old Hanover churchyard in the enclosed walls and outside of it, that also do not have gravestones, with names and dates. The source below says, there were about 1157 graves, with 879 markers, at unknown date. Yet today there are less than 300 existing old markers. The surrounding about 700' cemetery wall, was originally built in 1797 by assessing church members, including my kin. It has been repaired many times since then, including most recently, in about 2006. East Hanover Township, Dauphin County, Pennsylvania, Bicentennial Celebration, 1776-1976, Ruth Carlson Editor, Bicentennial Book Committee (page 63-64). There are several spaces without markers beside daughter Jennet McCreight's family.
The surname Strain was not used in Scotland before about 1800. It appears to have been used in N. Ireland, after the Ulster Scotts arrived. My best bet is on the surname Straughan. An earlier neighbor and probable relation of David's, named Gilbert Strain changed his name in NC to Strayhorn, "to make it sound." His children appear to have used both names. The poll (head) tax created a need for surnames in about the 1600's up to then, not commonly used. If you've heard a lot of Scottish dialects it's easy to understand the many different spellings and pronunciations even today.
Note: I have seen a James Strain added to David and Elizabeth's children but I have seen nothing to support it. I believe all of David's children are listed in his 1783 Will. All of them did not live in the area in 1783. There is just not enough solid proof to connect James. The record of this James' children do not include the normal Scottish naming pattern, as did the rest of ALL of David's children, named in the 1783 will. The mention of David's unmarried children included William, Alexander and David. D I Craig's book, A Historical Sketch of New Hope Church in Orange County, North Carolina, believes a James came to North Carolina and was the son of this David, however there are several mistakes in this source, admittedly written by an elderly man. I believe it was John Strain who settled there and married Gilbert's daughter, Mariam, and not James. I credit him for what he got right, to document this old family. Seeking more data to document these family connections.
Bio researched and written by LSP, all rights reserved. DO NOT reprint my attached photos or copy the data within
