Bio by B. Bradford - 3G granddaughter ~ Updated 9/15/2019 ~
William Allison Hensley was the youngest child of Henry "Harry" and Barbara Angel, born in 1798 on his parents' farm located at the Caney River Settlement of Bald Creek in Buncombe (now Yancey Co.) NC. The 200 acre homestead was situated at the confluence of the Sang Fork (now Lickskillet Branch) and Bald Mountain Creek (which now parallels US Hwy 19) outside of Burnsville.
On October 28, 1820, his father Henry “Harry” Hensley, sold the 200 acre farm to William for $500 with John Hensley as witness. 2 years later in August 1822, he sold his slave Dice to William for $500 with Berry Hensley Esq. as witness. Henry was gone from all records after that point and assumed dead. It appeared Henry was sick and his health was declining and thus transferred his farm and assets to William with the intentions of his son taking care of his widowed mother Barbara Angel-Hensley, after he was gone. I doubt William actually paid his father $1000 for both Dice and the land. Noting the exchange of money in the documents insulated the transactions to avert any contest. Both deeds were approved in the April Term 1828, Buncombe Co., NC with John and Berry Hensley serving as subscribing witnesses.
On July 13, 1823, James Poteet sold 50 acres on the Long Branch of Big Bald Mountain Creek to William Hensley. Witnesses were Holland Higgins and J. H. Poteet. This parcel was previously owned by Colbert Hensley who sold it to Bennett Williams on Oct. 13, 1804, and Bennett Williams then sold it to James Poteet in February 24, 1806.
William met his wife, Lucinda Higgins (b. 1804), through family ties. Holland Higgins Sr. family lived near Henry Hensley’s family and William’s older sister, Barbara, married Holland Higgins Jr. about 1810 in Buncombe Co. (now Yancey) as their first child Ellis was born 1811. Holland Jr. was Lucinda's father from a prior relationship before he married Barbara and lived nearby as reflected in the Buncombe (now Yancey) Co. land records and censuses. Barbara became Lucinda’s stepmother and probably raised her until of age when she married William. Holland Jr. was 20 years William’s senior and a blacksmith and cooper who probably mentored William in the trade as he also became a blacksmith later in life. In the early 1820’s, Holland and Barbara left the Caney River Settlement of Bald Creek and acquired land at the foot of Bald Mountain near present day Higgins Creek in Flag Pond, Tennessee. Brother, Benjamin, also left the Bald Creek about the same time and acquired 50 acres on the Indian Creek near his sister in Flag Pond. Holland was murdered on Nov. 30, 1824 leaving Barbara alone with 10 children to raise. I could not find a marriage record for William and Lucinda but their relationship started around 1826 based on the birth of son, William Kimsey, in 1827.
"William A. Hensley" was listed as head of household in the 1830 Buncombe Co., NC census on pg. 289 and living next door were John McElroy on one side and Charles Roberson on the other. A few doors down was his first cousin Berry Hensley (s/o James Hensley and Jemima Angel—sister to William’s mother Barbara Angel). In William's HH there were 4 males and 2 females and 1 female slave (Dice). Two of the 3 boys were nephews as they were too old to be his sons and the other male in 5-10 age group could be a son from a prior relationship? The females were mother Barbara, sister Zana and Dice the slave. It does not appear wife Lucinda and their first born, William K., were in William’s household and there is a good chance she was over in Flag Pond, TN helping her widowed stepmother Barbara with the farm and the children along with her son.
In 1833, Yancey Co., NC was formed out of Buncombe and the 200 acre farm fell within the new county. William was active in the Caney River community and served as a juror, a Deputy Sheriff and frequently posted bonds for several community leaders to include the Sheriff.
In February 1836, William A. Hensley was the Administrator of Nancy Reed’s (dec’d) Estate and the court allowed him 5% of receipts from the Estate. Simeon Chandler filed a complaint against William A. Hensley, administrator of Nancy Reed’s estate, and the jury found in favor of William. I have not been able to determine the relationship of Nancy Reed to William or Simeon Chandler.
William Hensley was noted in the 1840 Yancey Co., NC census with 10 people in the HH (5 males / 5 females). His aged mother and sister Zania were still living in household. Dice the slave was gone. The unknown son noted in the 1830 census was still in the HH along with own children. The family was listed next to Bannister Hensley on one side and John Higgins on the other.
On April 28, 1842, William A. Hensley sold 50 acre parcel on Bald Mountain Creek to Jason Briggs, The deed noted “Holland Higgins' old improvement.” The parcel was at the head waters of Bald Mountain Creek near the county line of now Yancey and Madison counties. This was the aforementioned parcel he acquired in 1823 from James Poteet.
Sometime in the late 1840's, William lost his land in Bald Creek due to a bond he posted for Yancey Co. Sheriff Charles Capron Baker who absconded county tax funds and fled for Texas. After paying the bond, William left Yancey with his family, mother, sister, $300 and a mare to start over and moved to the Stamp Ridge / Higgins Creek area of Flag Pond, Tennessee, where his sister and brother were living. William acquired 150 acres and became neighbors with his siblings. Mother Barbara must have been very happy to rejoin with her other two children, Benjamin and Barbara, and be close to the grandchildren most of whom lived next door and nearby.
In the 1850 Washington Co., TN Census, dated November 7, 1850, “Wm. A. Hensley” was noted in HH #1342, age 52, working as a Blacksmith, the value of his real estate was $500, and born in NC. The family members in the house were Lucinda 45, Robert B. 18, Elizabeth 16, Jane 14, Richmond 12, John 9, Barbary 6, Silas 4, Barbary 95, Zana 57 all born in NC. Son William Kimsey was living in Yancey Co., NC in HH #1310 age 23 with wife and 2 children. Living next door was Samuel Higgins’ family (s/o Holland Higgins and Barbara Hensley); noted as a “Blacksmith” and his widowed mother Barbara (William’s older sister) age 59 was living with him. On the other side was William’s nephew, William S. Hensley family (s/o Benjamin Hensley and Louisa). Two doors down was brother Benjamin age 57. A few doors down were Edmond Edwards, John Higgins, and Samuel and John Tilson households.
Per the 1850 Washington Co., TN Agriculture Census, William A. Hensley owned 145 acres (25 improved and 120 unimproved) owning 1 horse, 1 milking cow, 5 cattle, 4 sheep and 14 hogs; he raised corn and oats and produced wool and butter.
On December 7, 1857, William S. Erwin and William Parks sold 500 acres to William A. Hensley for $600 in Washington Co., TN. The survey map showed that this parcel covered essentially the summit of Spivey Mountain north of Spivey Falls and adjacent to Kan’s Foster’s line. Witnesses were S. Runion and Thomas Brown. The deed was registered 9 years later in Washington Co. TN records on March 26, 1966, Vol 4. Pg. 170. The purchase of this land hinged on the sale of his 150 acre parcel in Higgins Creek area of Flag Pond to Rev. Henry W Gilbert.
On December 11, 1857, William A. Hensley sold his 150 acre parcel to Rev. Henry Woody Gilbert for $600. The deed showed that the parcel was south of the Nolichucky on the Indian Creek joining lands of Thomas E. Tilson, John Higgins and Edmond Edwards. Witnesses to the deed were W.E. Tilson and George Tilson. Deed was registered in Washington Co., TN on December 29, 1857, pg. 139, Vol. 36 pg. 475. The description of this parcel coordinates with the 1850 census and the residents enumerated.
Per the 1860 Washington Co., TN, Census, District 19, P.O. Box Flag Pond, dated July 6, 1960, HH #1071, William A. Hensley was noted as “Farmer age 62”, real estate valued at $1,000 and personal estate at $400. Also living in the house were Lucinda age 56 (wife), John 20 (son), Barbara 17 (dau), Silas 15 (son) and Zana 67 (sister of William). This area was the summit of Spivey. William’s mother was gone during this census and presumed dead as there were no death or known Bible records to explain her death date. Living next door was William M. Harris, one door down was William and Lucinda’s son R. B. Hensley family (wife Catherine Edwards d/o John “Broke Leg” Edwards). Other son, John Hensley was living nearby in HH #1067. Son William Kimsey Hensley left Yancey Co., NC and was living a couple of doors down from William’s family on Spivey.
Per the 1860 Washington Co., TN Agriculture Census, William A. Hensley owned 507 acres with 40 improved and 467 unimproved with a cash value of $1,000. The value of farming equipment was $20. Livestock included: 1 mare, 3 milking cows, 2 other cows, and 22 swine with a value of $280. Value of slaughtered livestock $75. He produced wheat, corn, oats, legumes, potatoes, butter and molasses with a value of $34.
In 1862, records showed that William A. owned and pay taxes in Washington Co., TN for 485 acres.
Civil War: William A. Hensley was too old to be conscripted into the Civil War but his three sons William K., Robert Burton and John H served. William K. volunteered for the 8th Tenn Cavalry Union and RB and John were conscripted in Co. K. 64th NC Infantry CSA. All three survived the war, but William K. contracted tuberculosis during active duty and died 2 years after the war. William A. offered sworn testimony to his daughter-in-law’s widow’s pension application as being an eyewitness to their marriage in Yancey Co., NC since there was no marriage record available. Elvira was awarded an invalid pension and lived near William A. and Lucinda on Spivey and remained a widow raising her children.
1870 Washington Co., TN, Census - 18th District, P.O. Flag Pond, dated August 27, 1870, page 22. William and Lucinda are noted in HH #140 with William age 67, born NC, Farmer, $1000 value land, 225 personal property; wife Lucinda age 67, born NC, unable to read or write and Mary E. age 12 at school (probably a grandchild they are raising). Living next door in HH 139 was their son John Hensley age 29 and “Works of Farm” with wife Mary age 25 and family; and on the other side in HH 141 was son Silas age 25 who also “Works on Farm: with wife Sarah age 25 and his family. Two doors down in HH 137 was their widowed daughter-in-law Elvira (Chandler) Hensley and her children.
On March 23, 1875, Unicoi Co. was formed out of Washington and Carter counties and William A’s homestead now fell in Unicoi. Per the 1880 Unicoi Co., TN Census, dated June 4th and 5th 1880, 8th District, P.O Coffee Ridge, Pg. 4, William A. was listed in HH 40. William was age 81, “Blacksmith” and noted unemployed for the last 10 month of the census year, he was born in NC and parents born in NC; wife Lucinda was 76 “wife” and unable to read and write, born in NC and parents born in NC. Next door was John Shehan age 24 and his family. One door down in HH #42 was son Silas Hensley (age 34) family. A couple doors down was his other son John (age 40) and his family.
Over time the homestead was distributed out among his sons and the Old Hensley Cemetery #3 sits on part of the original track of William's land.
William and Lucinda had 9 children:
1. William Kimsey – b. 1826
2. Cornelia (? Possible – gone before 1850)
3. Robert Burton – b. 1833
4. Elizabeth "Betsy"
5. Louisa Jane
6. Richmond
7. John Henry
8. Barbara
9. Silas.
NOTE: There is no known photo to date of William Allison Hensley or wife Lucinda Higgins. The one that is posted on this page is his son, John Hensley, and I have requested the contributor to please remove to avoid confusion.
William Allison Hensley was the youngest child of Henry "Harry" and Barbara Angel, born in 1798 on his parents' farm located at the Caney River Settlement of Bald Creek in Buncombe (now Yancey Co.) NC. The 200 acre homestead was situated at the confluence of the Sang Fork (now Lickskillet Branch) and Bald Mountain Creek (which now parallels US Hwy 19) outside of Burnsville.
On October 28, 1820, his father Henry “Harry” Hensley, sold the 200 acre farm to William for $500 with John Hensley as witness. 2 years later in August 1822, he sold his slave Dice to William for $500 with Berry Hensley Esq. as witness. Henry was gone from all records after that point and assumed dead. It appeared Henry was sick and his health was declining and thus transferred his farm and assets to William with the intentions of his son taking care of his widowed mother Barbara Angel-Hensley, after he was gone. I doubt William actually paid his father $1000 for both Dice and the land. Noting the exchange of money in the documents insulated the transactions to avert any contest. Both deeds were approved in the April Term 1828, Buncombe Co., NC with John and Berry Hensley serving as subscribing witnesses.
On July 13, 1823, James Poteet sold 50 acres on the Long Branch of Big Bald Mountain Creek to William Hensley. Witnesses were Holland Higgins and J. H. Poteet. This parcel was previously owned by Colbert Hensley who sold it to Bennett Williams on Oct. 13, 1804, and Bennett Williams then sold it to James Poteet in February 24, 1806.
William met his wife, Lucinda Higgins (b. 1804), through family ties. Holland Higgins Sr. family lived near Henry Hensley’s family and William’s older sister, Barbara, married Holland Higgins Jr. about 1810 in Buncombe Co. (now Yancey) as their first child Ellis was born 1811. Holland Jr. was Lucinda's father from a prior relationship before he married Barbara and lived nearby as reflected in the Buncombe (now Yancey) Co. land records and censuses. Barbara became Lucinda’s stepmother and probably raised her until of age when she married William. Holland Jr. was 20 years William’s senior and a blacksmith and cooper who probably mentored William in the trade as he also became a blacksmith later in life. In the early 1820’s, Holland and Barbara left the Caney River Settlement of Bald Creek and acquired land at the foot of Bald Mountain near present day Higgins Creek in Flag Pond, Tennessee. Brother, Benjamin, also left the Bald Creek about the same time and acquired 50 acres on the Indian Creek near his sister in Flag Pond. Holland was murdered on Nov. 30, 1824 leaving Barbara alone with 10 children to raise. I could not find a marriage record for William and Lucinda but their relationship started around 1826 based on the birth of son, William Kimsey, in 1827.
"William A. Hensley" was listed as head of household in the 1830 Buncombe Co., NC census on pg. 289 and living next door were John McElroy on one side and Charles Roberson on the other. A few doors down was his first cousin Berry Hensley (s/o James Hensley and Jemima Angel—sister to William’s mother Barbara Angel). In William's HH there were 4 males and 2 females and 1 female slave (Dice). Two of the 3 boys were nephews as they were too old to be his sons and the other male in 5-10 age group could be a son from a prior relationship? The females were mother Barbara, sister Zana and Dice the slave. It does not appear wife Lucinda and their first born, William K., were in William’s household and there is a good chance she was over in Flag Pond, TN helping her widowed stepmother Barbara with the farm and the children along with her son.
In 1833, Yancey Co., NC was formed out of Buncombe and the 200 acre farm fell within the new county. William was active in the Caney River community and served as a juror, a Deputy Sheriff and frequently posted bonds for several community leaders to include the Sheriff.
In February 1836, William A. Hensley was the Administrator of Nancy Reed’s (dec’d) Estate and the court allowed him 5% of receipts from the Estate. Simeon Chandler filed a complaint against William A. Hensley, administrator of Nancy Reed’s estate, and the jury found in favor of William. I have not been able to determine the relationship of Nancy Reed to William or Simeon Chandler.
William Hensley was noted in the 1840 Yancey Co., NC census with 10 people in the HH (5 males / 5 females). His aged mother and sister Zania were still living in household. Dice the slave was gone. The unknown son noted in the 1830 census was still in the HH along with own children. The family was listed next to Bannister Hensley on one side and John Higgins on the other.
On April 28, 1842, William A. Hensley sold 50 acre parcel on Bald Mountain Creek to Jason Briggs, The deed noted “Holland Higgins' old improvement.” The parcel was at the head waters of Bald Mountain Creek near the county line of now Yancey and Madison counties. This was the aforementioned parcel he acquired in 1823 from James Poteet.
Sometime in the late 1840's, William lost his land in Bald Creek due to a bond he posted for Yancey Co. Sheriff Charles Capron Baker who absconded county tax funds and fled for Texas. After paying the bond, William left Yancey with his family, mother, sister, $300 and a mare to start over and moved to the Stamp Ridge / Higgins Creek area of Flag Pond, Tennessee, where his sister and brother were living. William acquired 150 acres and became neighbors with his siblings. Mother Barbara must have been very happy to rejoin with her other two children, Benjamin and Barbara, and be close to the grandchildren most of whom lived next door and nearby.
In the 1850 Washington Co., TN Census, dated November 7, 1850, “Wm. A. Hensley” was noted in HH #1342, age 52, working as a Blacksmith, the value of his real estate was $500, and born in NC. The family members in the house were Lucinda 45, Robert B. 18, Elizabeth 16, Jane 14, Richmond 12, John 9, Barbary 6, Silas 4, Barbary 95, Zana 57 all born in NC. Son William Kimsey was living in Yancey Co., NC in HH #1310 age 23 with wife and 2 children. Living next door was Samuel Higgins’ family (s/o Holland Higgins and Barbara Hensley); noted as a “Blacksmith” and his widowed mother Barbara (William’s older sister) age 59 was living with him. On the other side was William’s nephew, William S. Hensley family (s/o Benjamin Hensley and Louisa). Two doors down was brother Benjamin age 57. A few doors down were Edmond Edwards, John Higgins, and Samuel and John Tilson households.
Per the 1850 Washington Co., TN Agriculture Census, William A. Hensley owned 145 acres (25 improved and 120 unimproved) owning 1 horse, 1 milking cow, 5 cattle, 4 sheep and 14 hogs; he raised corn and oats and produced wool and butter.
On December 7, 1857, William S. Erwin and William Parks sold 500 acres to William A. Hensley for $600 in Washington Co., TN. The survey map showed that this parcel covered essentially the summit of Spivey Mountain north of Spivey Falls and adjacent to Kan’s Foster’s line. Witnesses were S. Runion and Thomas Brown. The deed was registered 9 years later in Washington Co. TN records on March 26, 1966, Vol 4. Pg. 170. The purchase of this land hinged on the sale of his 150 acre parcel in Higgins Creek area of Flag Pond to Rev. Henry W Gilbert.
On December 11, 1857, William A. Hensley sold his 150 acre parcel to Rev. Henry Woody Gilbert for $600. The deed showed that the parcel was south of the Nolichucky on the Indian Creek joining lands of Thomas E. Tilson, John Higgins and Edmond Edwards. Witnesses to the deed were W.E. Tilson and George Tilson. Deed was registered in Washington Co., TN on December 29, 1857, pg. 139, Vol. 36 pg. 475. The description of this parcel coordinates with the 1850 census and the residents enumerated.
Per the 1860 Washington Co., TN, Census, District 19, P.O. Box Flag Pond, dated July 6, 1960, HH #1071, William A. Hensley was noted as “Farmer age 62”, real estate valued at $1,000 and personal estate at $400. Also living in the house were Lucinda age 56 (wife), John 20 (son), Barbara 17 (dau), Silas 15 (son) and Zana 67 (sister of William). This area was the summit of Spivey. William’s mother was gone during this census and presumed dead as there were no death or known Bible records to explain her death date. Living next door was William M. Harris, one door down was William and Lucinda’s son R. B. Hensley family (wife Catherine Edwards d/o John “Broke Leg” Edwards). Other son, John Hensley was living nearby in HH #1067. Son William Kimsey Hensley left Yancey Co., NC and was living a couple of doors down from William’s family on Spivey.
Per the 1860 Washington Co., TN Agriculture Census, William A. Hensley owned 507 acres with 40 improved and 467 unimproved with a cash value of $1,000. The value of farming equipment was $20. Livestock included: 1 mare, 3 milking cows, 2 other cows, and 22 swine with a value of $280. Value of slaughtered livestock $75. He produced wheat, corn, oats, legumes, potatoes, butter and molasses with a value of $34.
In 1862, records showed that William A. owned and pay taxes in Washington Co., TN for 485 acres.
Civil War: William A. Hensley was too old to be conscripted into the Civil War but his three sons William K., Robert Burton and John H served. William K. volunteered for the 8th Tenn Cavalry Union and RB and John were conscripted in Co. K. 64th NC Infantry CSA. All three survived the war, but William K. contracted tuberculosis during active duty and died 2 years after the war. William A. offered sworn testimony to his daughter-in-law’s widow’s pension application as being an eyewitness to their marriage in Yancey Co., NC since there was no marriage record available. Elvira was awarded an invalid pension and lived near William A. and Lucinda on Spivey and remained a widow raising her children.
1870 Washington Co., TN, Census - 18th District, P.O. Flag Pond, dated August 27, 1870, page 22. William and Lucinda are noted in HH #140 with William age 67, born NC, Farmer, $1000 value land, 225 personal property; wife Lucinda age 67, born NC, unable to read or write and Mary E. age 12 at school (probably a grandchild they are raising). Living next door in HH 139 was their son John Hensley age 29 and “Works of Farm” with wife Mary age 25 and family; and on the other side in HH 141 was son Silas age 25 who also “Works on Farm: with wife Sarah age 25 and his family. Two doors down in HH 137 was their widowed daughter-in-law Elvira (Chandler) Hensley and her children.
On March 23, 1875, Unicoi Co. was formed out of Washington and Carter counties and William A’s homestead now fell in Unicoi. Per the 1880 Unicoi Co., TN Census, dated June 4th and 5th 1880, 8th District, P.O Coffee Ridge, Pg. 4, William A. was listed in HH 40. William was age 81, “Blacksmith” and noted unemployed for the last 10 month of the census year, he was born in NC and parents born in NC; wife Lucinda was 76 “wife” and unable to read and write, born in NC and parents born in NC. Next door was John Shehan age 24 and his family. One door down in HH #42 was son Silas Hensley (age 34) family. A couple doors down was his other son John (age 40) and his family.
Over time the homestead was distributed out among his sons and the Old Hensley Cemetery #3 sits on part of the original track of William's land.
William and Lucinda had 9 children:
1. William Kimsey – b. 1826
2. Cornelia (? Possible – gone before 1850)
3. Robert Burton – b. 1833
4. Elizabeth "Betsy"
5. Louisa Jane
6. Richmond
7. John Henry
8. Barbara
9. Silas.
NOTE: There is no known photo to date of William Allison Hensley or wife Lucinda Higgins. The one that is posted on this page is his son, John Hensley, and I have requested the contributor to please remove to avoid confusion.
Bio by B. Bradford - 3G granddaughter ~ Updated 9/15/2019 ~
William Allison Hensley was the youngest child of Henry "Harry" and Barbara Angel, born in 1798 on his parents' farm located at the Caney River Settlement of Bald Creek in Buncombe (now Yancey Co.) NC. The 200 acre homestead was situated at the confluence of the Sang Fork (now Lickskillet Branch) and Bald Mountain Creek (which now parallels US Hwy 19) outside of Burnsville.
On October 28, 1820, his father Henry “Harry” Hensley, sold the 200 acre farm to William for $500 with John Hensley as witness. 2 years later in August 1822, he sold his slave Dice to William for $500 with Berry Hensley Esq. as witness. Henry was gone from all records after that point and assumed dead. It appeared Henry was sick and his health was declining and thus transferred his farm and assets to William with the intentions of his son taking care of his widowed mother Barbara Angel-Hensley, after he was gone. I doubt William actually paid his father $1000 for both Dice and the land. Noting the exchange of money in the documents insulated the transactions to avert any contest. Both deeds were approved in the April Term 1828, Buncombe Co., NC with John and Berry Hensley serving as subscribing witnesses.
On July 13, 1823, James Poteet sold 50 acres on the Long Branch of Big Bald Mountain Creek to William Hensley. Witnesses were Holland Higgins and J. H. Poteet. This parcel was previously owned by Colbert Hensley who sold it to Bennett Williams on Oct. 13, 1804, and Bennett Williams then sold it to James Poteet in February 24, 1806.
William met his wife, Lucinda Higgins (b. 1804), through family ties. Holland Higgins Sr. family lived near Henry Hensley’s family and William’s older sister, Barbara, married Holland Higgins Jr. about 1810 in Buncombe Co. (now Yancey) as their first child Ellis was born 1811. Holland Jr. was Lucinda's father from a prior relationship before he married Barbara and lived nearby as reflected in the Buncombe (now Yancey) Co. land records and censuses. Barbara became Lucinda’s stepmother and probably raised her until of age when she married William. Holland Jr. was 20 years William’s senior and a blacksmith and cooper who probably mentored William in the trade as he also became a blacksmith later in life. In the early 1820’s, Holland and Barbara left the Caney River Settlement of Bald Creek and acquired land at the foot of Bald Mountain near present day Higgins Creek in Flag Pond, Tennessee. Brother, Benjamin, also left the Bald Creek about the same time and acquired 50 acres on the Indian Creek near his sister in Flag Pond. Holland was murdered on Nov. 30, 1824 leaving Barbara alone with 10 children to raise. I could not find a marriage record for William and Lucinda but their relationship started around 1826 based on the birth of son, William Kimsey, in 1827.
"William A. Hensley" was listed as head of household in the 1830 Buncombe Co., NC census on pg. 289 and living next door were John McElroy on one side and Charles Roberson on the other. A few doors down was his first cousin Berry Hensley (s/o James Hensley and Jemima Angel—sister to William’s mother Barbara Angel). In William's HH there were 4 males and 2 females and 1 female slave (Dice). Two of the 3 boys were nephews as they were too old to be his sons and the other male in 5-10 age group could be a son from a prior relationship? The females were mother Barbara, sister Zana and Dice the slave. It does not appear wife Lucinda and their first born, William K., were in William’s household and there is a good chance she was over in Flag Pond, TN helping her widowed stepmother Barbara with the farm and the children along with her son.
In 1833, Yancey Co., NC was formed out of Buncombe and the 200 acre farm fell within the new county. William was active in the Caney River community and served as a juror, a Deputy Sheriff and frequently posted bonds for several community leaders to include the Sheriff.
In February 1836, William A. Hensley was the Administrator of Nancy Reed’s (dec’d) Estate and the court allowed him 5% of receipts from the Estate. Simeon Chandler filed a complaint against William A. Hensley, administrator of Nancy Reed’s estate, and the jury found in favor of William. I have not been able to determine the relationship of Nancy Reed to William or Simeon Chandler.
William Hensley was noted in the 1840 Yancey Co., NC census with 10 people in the HH (5 males / 5 females). His aged mother and sister Zania were still living in household. Dice the slave was gone. The unknown son noted in the 1830 census was still in the HH along with own children. The family was listed next to Bannister Hensley on one side and John Higgins on the other.
On April 28, 1842, William A. Hensley sold 50 acre parcel on Bald Mountain Creek to Jason Briggs, The deed noted “Holland Higgins' old improvement.” The parcel was at the head waters of Bald Mountain Creek near the county line of now Yancey and Madison counties. This was the aforementioned parcel he acquired in 1823 from James Poteet.
Sometime in the late 1840's, William lost his land in Bald Creek due to a bond he posted for Yancey Co. Sheriff Charles Capron Baker who absconded county tax funds and fled for Texas. After paying the bond, William left Yancey with his family, mother, sister, $300 and a mare to start over and moved to the Stamp Ridge / Higgins Creek area of Flag Pond, Tennessee, where his sister and brother were living. William acquired 150 acres and became neighbors with his siblings. Mother Barbara must have been very happy to rejoin with her other two children, Benjamin and Barbara, and be close to the grandchildren most of whom lived next door and nearby.
In the 1850 Washington Co., TN Census, dated November 7, 1850, “Wm. A. Hensley” was noted in HH #1342, age 52, working as a Blacksmith, the value of his real estate was $500, and born in NC. The family members in the house were Lucinda 45, Robert B. 18, Elizabeth 16, Jane 14, Richmond 12, John 9, Barbary 6, Silas 4, Barbary 95, Zana 57 all born in NC. Son William Kimsey was living in Yancey Co., NC in HH #1310 age 23 with wife and 2 children. Living next door was Samuel Higgins’ family (s/o Holland Higgins and Barbara Hensley); noted as a “Blacksmith” and his widowed mother Barbara (William’s older sister) age 59 was living with him. On the other side was William’s nephew, William S. Hensley family (s/o Benjamin Hensley and Louisa). Two doors down was brother Benjamin age 57. A few doors down were Edmond Edwards, John Higgins, and Samuel and John Tilson households.
Per the 1850 Washington Co., TN Agriculture Census, William A. Hensley owned 145 acres (25 improved and 120 unimproved) owning 1 horse, 1 milking cow, 5 cattle, 4 sheep and 14 hogs; he raised corn and oats and produced wool and butter.
On December 7, 1857, William S. Erwin and William Parks sold 500 acres to William A. Hensley for $600 in Washington Co., TN. The survey map showed that this parcel covered essentially the summit of Spivey Mountain north of Spivey Falls and adjacent to Kan’s Foster’s line. Witnesses were S. Runion and Thomas Brown. The deed was registered 9 years later in Washington Co. TN records on March 26, 1966, Vol 4. Pg. 170. The purchase of this land hinged on the sale of his 150 acre parcel in Higgins Creek area of Flag Pond to Rev. Henry W Gilbert.
On December 11, 1857, William A. Hensley sold his 150 acre parcel to Rev. Henry Woody Gilbert for $600. The deed showed that the parcel was south of the Nolichucky on the Indian Creek joining lands of Thomas E. Tilson, John Higgins and Edmond Edwards. Witnesses to the deed were W.E. Tilson and George Tilson. Deed was registered in Washington Co., TN on December 29, 1857, pg. 139, Vol. 36 pg. 475. The description of this parcel coordinates with the 1850 census and the residents enumerated.
Per the 1860 Washington Co., TN, Census, District 19, P.O. Box Flag Pond, dated July 6, 1960, HH #1071, William A. Hensley was noted as “Farmer age 62”, real estate valued at $1,000 and personal estate at $400. Also living in the house were Lucinda age 56 (wife), John 20 (son), Barbara 17 (dau), Silas 15 (son) and Zana 67 (sister of William). This area was the summit of Spivey. William’s mother was gone during this census and presumed dead as there were no death or known Bible records to explain her death date. Living next door was William M. Harris, one door down was William and Lucinda’s son R. B. Hensley family (wife Catherine Edwards d/o John “Broke Leg” Edwards). Other son, John Hensley was living nearby in HH #1067. Son William Kimsey Hensley left Yancey Co., NC and was living a couple of doors down from William’s family on Spivey.
Per the 1860 Washington Co., TN Agriculture Census, William A. Hensley owned 507 acres with 40 improved and 467 unimproved with a cash value of $1,000. The value of farming equipment was $20. Livestock included: 1 mare, 3 milking cows, 2 other cows, and 22 swine with a value of $280. Value of slaughtered livestock $75. He produced wheat, corn, oats, legumes, potatoes, butter and molasses with a value of $34.
In 1862, records showed that William A. owned and pay taxes in Washington Co., TN for 485 acres.
Civil War: William A. Hensley was too old to be conscripted into the Civil War but his three sons William K., Robert Burton and John H served. William K. volunteered for the 8th Tenn Cavalry Union and RB and John were conscripted in Co. K. 64th NC Infantry CSA. All three survived the war, but William K. contracted tuberculosis during active duty and died 2 years after the war. William A. offered sworn testimony to his daughter-in-law’s widow’s pension application as being an eyewitness to their marriage in Yancey Co., NC since there was no marriage record available. Elvira was awarded an invalid pension and lived near William A. and Lucinda on Spivey and remained a widow raising her children.
1870 Washington Co., TN, Census - 18th District, P.O. Flag Pond, dated August 27, 1870, page 22. William and Lucinda are noted in HH #140 with William age 67, born NC, Farmer, $1000 value land, 225 personal property; wife Lucinda age 67, born NC, unable to read or write and Mary E. age 12 at school (probably a grandchild they are raising). Living next door in HH 139 was their son John Hensley age 29 and “Works of Farm” with wife Mary age 25 and family; and on the other side in HH 141 was son Silas age 25 who also “Works on Farm: with wife Sarah age 25 and his family. Two doors down in HH 137 was their widowed daughter-in-law Elvira (Chandler) Hensley and her children.
On March 23, 1875, Unicoi Co. was formed out of Washington and Carter counties and William A’s homestead now fell in Unicoi. Per the 1880 Unicoi Co., TN Census, dated June 4th and 5th 1880, 8th District, P.O Coffee Ridge, Pg. 4, William A. was listed in HH 40. William was age 81, “Blacksmith” and noted unemployed for the last 10 month of the census year, he was born in NC and parents born in NC; wife Lucinda was 76 “wife” and unable to read and write, born in NC and parents born in NC. Next door was John Shehan age 24 and his family. One door down in HH #42 was son Silas Hensley (age 34) family. A couple doors down was his other son John (age 40) and his family.
Over time the homestead was distributed out among his sons and the Old Hensley Cemetery #3 sits on part of the original track of William's land.
William and Lucinda had 9 children:
1. William Kimsey – b. 1826
2. Cornelia (? Possible – gone before 1850)
3. Robert Burton – b. 1833
4. Elizabeth "Betsy"
5. Louisa Jane
6. Richmond
7. John Henry
8. Barbara
9. Silas.
NOTE: There is no known photo to date of William Allison Hensley or wife Lucinda Higgins. The one that is posted on this page is his son, John Hensley, and I have requested the contributor to please remove to avoid confusion.
William Allison Hensley was the youngest child of Henry "Harry" and Barbara Angel, born in 1798 on his parents' farm located at the Caney River Settlement of Bald Creek in Buncombe (now Yancey Co.) NC. The 200 acre homestead was situated at the confluence of the Sang Fork (now Lickskillet Branch) and Bald Mountain Creek (which now parallels US Hwy 19) outside of Burnsville.
On October 28, 1820, his father Henry “Harry” Hensley, sold the 200 acre farm to William for $500 with John Hensley as witness. 2 years later in August 1822, he sold his slave Dice to William for $500 with Berry Hensley Esq. as witness. Henry was gone from all records after that point and assumed dead. It appeared Henry was sick and his health was declining and thus transferred his farm and assets to William with the intentions of his son taking care of his widowed mother Barbara Angel-Hensley, after he was gone. I doubt William actually paid his father $1000 for both Dice and the land. Noting the exchange of money in the documents insulated the transactions to avert any contest. Both deeds were approved in the April Term 1828, Buncombe Co., NC with John and Berry Hensley serving as subscribing witnesses.
On July 13, 1823, James Poteet sold 50 acres on the Long Branch of Big Bald Mountain Creek to William Hensley. Witnesses were Holland Higgins and J. H. Poteet. This parcel was previously owned by Colbert Hensley who sold it to Bennett Williams on Oct. 13, 1804, and Bennett Williams then sold it to James Poteet in February 24, 1806.
William met his wife, Lucinda Higgins (b. 1804), through family ties. Holland Higgins Sr. family lived near Henry Hensley’s family and William’s older sister, Barbara, married Holland Higgins Jr. about 1810 in Buncombe Co. (now Yancey) as their first child Ellis was born 1811. Holland Jr. was Lucinda's father from a prior relationship before he married Barbara and lived nearby as reflected in the Buncombe (now Yancey) Co. land records and censuses. Barbara became Lucinda’s stepmother and probably raised her until of age when she married William. Holland Jr. was 20 years William’s senior and a blacksmith and cooper who probably mentored William in the trade as he also became a blacksmith later in life. In the early 1820’s, Holland and Barbara left the Caney River Settlement of Bald Creek and acquired land at the foot of Bald Mountain near present day Higgins Creek in Flag Pond, Tennessee. Brother, Benjamin, also left the Bald Creek about the same time and acquired 50 acres on the Indian Creek near his sister in Flag Pond. Holland was murdered on Nov. 30, 1824 leaving Barbara alone with 10 children to raise. I could not find a marriage record for William and Lucinda but their relationship started around 1826 based on the birth of son, William Kimsey, in 1827.
"William A. Hensley" was listed as head of household in the 1830 Buncombe Co., NC census on pg. 289 and living next door were John McElroy on one side and Charles Roberson on the other. A few doors down was his first cousin Berry Hensley (s/o James Hensley and Jemima Angel—sister to William’s mother Barbara Angel). In William's HH there were 4 males and 2 females and 1 female slave (Dice). Two of the 3 boys were nephews as they were too old to be his sons and the other male in 5-10 age group could be a son from a prior relationship? The females were mother Barbara, sister Zana and Dice the slave. It does not appear wife Lucinda and their first born, William K., were in William’s household and there is a good chance she was over in Flag Pond, TN helping her widowed stepmother Barbara with the farm and the children along with her son.
In 1833, Yancey Co., NC was formed out of Buncombe and the 200 acre farm fell within the new county. William was active in the Caney River community and served as a juror, a Deputy Sheriff and frequently posted bonds for several community leaders to include the Sheriff.
In February 1836, William A. Hensley was the Administrator of Nancy Reed’s (dec’d) Estate and the court allowed him 5% of receipts from the Estate. Simeon Chandler filed a complaint against William A. Hensley, administrator of Nancy Reed’s estate, and the jury found in favor of William. I have not been able to determine the relationship of Nancy Reed to William or Simeon Chandler.
William Hensley was noted in the 1840 Yancey Co., NC census with 10 people in the HH (5 males / 5 females). His aged mother and sister Zania were still living in household. Dice the slave was gone. The unknown son noted in the 1830 census was still in the HH along with own children. The family was listed next to Bannister Hensley on one side and John Higgins on the other.
On April 28, 1842, William A. Hensley sold 50 acre parcel on Bald Mountain Creek to Jason Briggs, The deed noted “Holland Higgins' old improvement.” The parcel was at the head waters of Bald Mountain Creek near the county line of now Yancey and Madison counties. This was the aforementioned parcel he acquired in 1823 from James Poteet.
Sometime in the late 1840's, William lost his land in Bald Creek due to a bond he posted for Yancey Co. Sheriff Charles Capron Baker who absconded county tax funds and fled for Texas. After paying the bond, William left Yancey with his family, mother, sister, $300 and a mare to start over and moved to the Stamp Ridge / Higgins Creek area of Flag Pond, Tennessee, where his sister and brother were living. William acquired 150 acres and became neighbors with his siblings. Mother Barbara must have been very happy to rejoin with her other two children, Benjamin and Barbara, and be close to the grandchildren most of whom lived next door and nearby.
In the 1850 Washington Co., TN Census, dated November 7, 1850, “Wm. A. Hensley” was noted in HH #1342, age 52, working as a Blacksmith, the value of his real estate was $500, and born in NC. The family members in the house were Lucinda 45, Robert B. 18, Elizabeth 16, Jane 14, Richmond 12, John 9, Barbary 6, Silas 4, Barbary 95, Zana 57 all born in NC. Son William Kimsey was living in Yancey Co., NC in HH #1310 age 23 with wife and 2 children. Living next door was Samuel Higgins’ family (s/o Holland Higgins and Barbara Hensley); noted as a “Blacksmith” and his widowed mother Barbara (William’s older sister) age 59 was living with him. On the other side was William’s nephew, William S. Hensley family (s/o Benjamin Hensley and Louisa). Two doors down was brother Benjamin age 57. A few doors down were Edmond Edwards, John Higgins, and Samuel and John Tilson households.
Per the 1850 Washington Co., TN Agriculture Census, William A. Hensley owned 145 acres (25 improved and 120 unimproved) owning 1 horse, 1 milking cow, 5 cattle, 4 sheep and 14 hogs; he raised corn and oats and produced wool and butter.
On December 7, 1857, William S. Erwin and William Parks sold 500 acres to William A. Hensley for $600 in Washington Co., TN. The survey map showed that this parcel covered essentially the summit of Spivey Mountain north of Spivey Falls and adjacent to Kan’s Foster’s line. Witnesses were S. Runion and Thomas Brown. The deed was registered 9 years later in Washington Co. TN records on March 26, 1966, Vol 4. Pg. 170. The purchase of this land hinged on the sale of his 150 acre parcel in Higgins Creek area of Flag Pond to Rev. Henry W Gilbert.
On December 11, 1857, William A. Hensley sold his 150 acre parcel to Rev. Henry Woody Gilbert for $600. The deed showed that the parcel was south of the Nolichucky on the Indian Creek joining lands of Thomas E. Tilson, John Higgins and Edmond Edwards. Witnesses to the deed were W.E. Tilson and George Tilson. Deed was registered in Washington Co., TN on December 29, 1857, pg. 139, Vol. 36 pg. 475. The description of this parcel coordinates with the 1850 census and the residents enumerated.
Per the 1860 Washington Co., TN, Census, District 19, P.O. Box Flag Pond, dated July 6, 1960, HH #1071, William A. Hensley was noted as “Farmer age 62”, real estate valued at $1,000 and personal estate at $400. Also living in the house were Lucinda age 56 (wife), John 20 (son), Barbara 17 (dau), Silas 15 (son) and Zana 67 (sister of William). This area was the summit of Spivey. William’s mother was gone during this census and presumed dead as there were no death or known Bible records to explain her death date. Living next door was William M. Harris, one door down was William and Lucinda’s son R. B. Hensley family (wife Catherine Edwards d/o John “Broke Leg” Edwards). Other son, John Hensley was living nearby in HH #1067. Son William Kimsey Hensley left Yancey Co., NC and was living a couple of doors down from William’s family on Spivey.
Per the 1860 Washington Co., TN Agriculture Census, William A. Hensley owned 507 acres with 40 improved and 467 unimproved with a cash value of $1,000. The value of farming equipment was $20. Livestock included: 1 mare, 3 milking cows, 2 other cows, and 22 swine with a value of $280. Value of slaughtered livestock $75. He produced wheat, corn, oats, legumes, potatoes, butter and molasses with a value of $34.
In 1862, records showed that William A. owned and pay taxes in Washington Co., TN for 485 acres.
Civil War: William A. Hensley was too old to be conscripted into the Civil War but his three sons William K., Robert Burton and John H served. William K. volunteered for the 8th Tenn Cavalry Union and RB and John were conscripted in Co. K. 64th NC Infantry CSA. All three survived the war, but William K. contracted tuberculosis during active duty and died 2 years after the war. William A. offered sworn testimony to his daughter-in-law’s widow’s pension application as being an eyewitness to their marriage in Yancey Co., NC since there was no marriage record available. Elvira was awarded an invalid pension and lived near William A. and Lucinda on Spivey and remained a widow raising her children.
1870 Washington Co., TN, Census - 18th District, P.O. Flag Pond, dated August 27, 1870, page 22. William and Lucinda are noted in HH #140 with William age 67, born NC, Farmer, $1000 value land, 225 personal property; wife Lucinda age 67, born NC, unable to read or write and Mary E. age 12 at school (probably a grandchild they are raising). Living next door in HH 139 was their son John Hensley age 29 and “Works of Farm” with wife Mary age 25 and family; and on the other side in HH 141 was son Silas age 25 who also “Works on Farm: with wife Sarah age 25 and his family. Two doors down in HH 137 was their widowed daughter-in-law Elvira (Chandler) Hensley and her children.
On March 23, 1875, Unicoi Co. was formed out of Washington and Carter counties and William A’s homestead now fell in Unicoi. Per the 1880 Unicoi Co., TN Census, dated June 4th and 5th 1880, 8th District, P.O Coffee Ridge, Pg. 4, William A. was listed in HH 40. William was age 81, “Blacksmith” and noted unemployed for the last 10 month of the census year, he was born in NC and parents born in NC; wife Lucinda was 76 “wife” and unable to read and write, born in NC and parents born in NC. Next door was John Shehan age 24 and his family. One door down in HH #42 was son Silas Hensley (age 34) family. A couple doors down was his other son John (age 40) and his family.
Over time the homestead was distributed out among his sons and the Old Hensley Cemetery #3 sits on part of the original track of William's land.
William and Lucinda had 9 children:
1. William Kimsey – b. 1826
2. Cornelia (? Possible – gone before 1850)
3. Robert Burton – b. 1833
4. Elizabeth "Betsy"
5. Louisa Jane
6. Richmond
7. John Henry
8. Barbara
9. Silas.
NOTE: There is no known photo to date of William Allison Hensley or wife Lucinda Higgins. The one that is posted on this page is his son, John Hensley, and I have requested the contributor to please remove to avoid confusion.
Inscription
"The First Settlers of Spivey"
Family Members
Siblings
Advertisement
Records on Ancestry
Sponsored by Ancestry
Advertisement
