LAST WILL AND TESTAMENT OF MESHACK PERDUE, In the Clerk's Office of the Circuit Court of Franklin County VA, Will Book 4, and Page 391:
In the name of God, Amen!
I, Meshack Perdue, of the County of Franklin and State of Virginia being of sound mind and disposing memory, do make and constitute this my last Will and Testament, revoking all Wills heretofore made by me.
1st. I direct that all my just debts be paid and that all debts due to me be collected and speedially as consistent with justice and humanity.
2nd. I give to my son, Daniel Perdue, a Negro man by the name of Jordan, a Negro Woman by the name of Harriett and her child by the name of Squire, a Negro Man by the name of Thomas, all of which he has received into his possession, to him and his heirs forever.
3rd. I give to my son, Eli Perdue, a Negro Boy by the name of William, a Negro Man by the name of Robert, a Negro Man by the name of Henry, all of which he has received into his possession, to him and his heirs forever.
4th. I give to my son, Asa Perdue, a Negro Boy by the name of Dick, one other Negro Boy by the name of Lewis and Six hundred dollars in Cash, all of which he has received into his possession, to him and his heirs forever.
5th. I give to my son, Matthew Perdue, a Negro Girl by the name of Lucy, one other Negro Girl by the name of Fanny and Six hundred dollars in Cash, all of which he has received into his possession, to him and his heirs forever.
6th. I give to my son, Jesse Perdue, a Negro Woman by the name of Dilly and her three children by the names of Jane, Julia and James, one other Girl by the name of Milly, all of which he has received into his possession, to him and his heirs forever.
7th. I give to my son, Mark Perdue, a Negro Girl by the name of Ann, a Negro Man by the name of Frank, also a tract of Land on which my Grist and Saw Mill with all appurtenances thereunto belonging as it stands; supposed to contain One hundred and fifty acres and bounded as follows to wit; (Beginning at a corner Black Oak above the mill pond in Peter D. Holland's line and with said line to Ward's line and with Ward's line to a corner Black Oak at the lower end of the race paths and with the same to the head, thence along a new marked line to Obediah Perdue's line and with Holland's line to the head of the mill pond to pointers thence across the creek to the beginning). Also give to my said son my two stills, all of which he has received to his possession, to him and his heirs forever.
8th. I give to my son, Isaiah Perdue, a Negro Woman by the name of Priss and her four children by the names of Jane, John, Susan, and Terry, also one Negro man by the name of Daniel, also my Bed, Bedstead & furniture, also my yellow mare lately purchased for me by my son Mark, all of which he has in his possession, to him and his heirs forever.
9th. I give to my son, Obediah Perdue, a Negro Woman by the name of Hannah, a Negro Woman by the name of Amy, also my Tract of Land known by the name of Binyour Tracts which he has received in his possession. I also give to my said son Obediah, after the death of my wife, the Negro Girl Judith that is left to wait and tend on my said Wife during her life time and all that tract of Land whereon he the said Obediah now lives, the same having been deeded to him which will fully appear by reference to a deed recorded in the County Court of Franklin, to him and his heirs forever. Also my Jones Colt.
10th. For reasons best known to myself, I give to my son, Zechariah Perdue, one Dollar and no more in addition to what I have heretofore given him, to be paid to him after my death by my executors.
11th. For reasons best known to myself, I give to my son, John Perdue, one Dollar and no more in addition to what I have heretofore given him, to be paid to him after my death by my executors.
12th. For reasons best known to myself, I give to my daughter, Elizabeth Ward, one Dollar and no more in addition to what I have heretofore given him, to be paid to him after my death by my executors.
13th. I have reserved for my own use and benefit during my natural life my Negro Man Robert, a Black Smith by trade, and all monies in my possession or that may be due me by bonds or otherwise.
14th. I give to my Son, Mark Perdue, after my death, my Negro Man Robert that I have kept to wait on me during my life, to him and his heirs forever.
15th. I give go my Sons Daniel Perdue, Asa Perdue, Eli Perdue, Matthew Perdue, Jesse Perdue, Mark Perdue, Isaiah Perdue, Obediah Perdue and the heirs of Luke Perdue each one nineth part of all monies that I may have in my possession at my death, also all monies that may be due me by bonds or otherwise. It is understood and is my Will that Luke Perdue's children collectively is to receive only one ninth part in the 15th clause of the foregoing Will.
16th. Whereas there is Suits now pending between myself and John Perdue, one Suit in the court of appeals, one other suit in the Circuit Superior Court of Law and Chancery for Franklin County, should it so turn out that said suits should not be determined in my lifetime, than and in that case it is my Will and desire that my executors retain out of any money that may come into their hands belonging to my Estate as will be sufficient to satisfy and pay off all damages that I may sustain in the decision of said suits after said suits is ended. What sum of money that has been retained by my executors for the purpose above mentioned shall be paid as directed in the 15th Clause of this my last Will, one ninth part to each including the heirs of Luke Perdue.
17th. I appoint my sons, Mark Perdue and Isaiah Perdue, executors of this my last Will and Testament, requesting that the County Court of Franklin will not require them to give security as I have confidence they will do Justice to all persons concerned, in Testimony whereof, I, Meshack Perdue, have hereunto set my hand and seal this 27th day of December, 1837.
Meshack (X) Perdue (seal)
His Mark
In the presence of:
Stephen Preston
J. L. Burwell
Joshua Starkey
At a Court held for Franklin County the 5th day of February 1838, this last Will and Testament of Meshack Perdue dec'd. was produced in Court by the Executors herein named and offered for probate and thereupon the motion of John Perdue, by his attorney, the probate was continued until March Court. And at a Court held for the said County the 5th day of March 1838, this said will was again produced in Court and after hearing on oath the evidence of Stephen Preston, John L. Burwell and Joshua Starkey, the subscribing witnesses hereto, and the Testimony of other witnesses in opposition to, the probate was ordered to be recorded, and on motion of Mark Perdue and Isaiah Perdue, the executors herein named, who took the oath prescribed by law and gave bond conditioned according to law, the testator desiring herein named, who took the oath prescribed by law and gave bond conditioned according to law, the testator desiring that no security should be required, certificate is granted them for obtaining a probate of the said Will in due form. Teste: Caleb Tate C.F.C
(Note: Mark and Isaiah Perdue executed Meshack Perdue's will on January 24, 1840. The sum remaining was $321.54 ½ from a total estate of $5,831.02).
*****
Franklin Co., VA Order bk 6, pg 280 & 281
Eleanor Perdue.....Plaintiff
against Chancery
Meshack Perdue.....Defendant
This cause came on this day to be heard upon this Bill and answer, and the arguments of Counsel, and the Court. After mature deliberation and by the consent of the Parties doth Order and Decree and it is hereby Ordered and Decreed that the said Meshack Perdue furnish the Plaintiff during her natural lifetime, and the lifetime of the Defendant with a comfortable house to live in with four Acres of good land adjacent thereto for cultivation, that he also furnish her with a good feather Bed and furniture, four chairs, One Table, One Water pail and one Washing Tub, One two gallon pot, One oven, One skillet, half a dozen cups and saucers, one set plates. One set of Knives and forks. One set of Table sppons, one set Tea spoons, half a Dozen dishes. One Milk Cow and One negro girl of sufficient age and size to wait upon the Plaintiff and to assist her and her Labours, and it is also further ordered and Decreed that the said Defendant pay and deliver to the said Plaintiff annually after the present year in the month of January or February four barrels of corn, five bushels of Wheat, seven pounds of coffee, Twenty-one pounds of Brown Sugar, half a pound of Black pepper, half ditto of Ginger, half ditto of Alspice and one and an half bushels of Salt. One hundred and fifty pounds of good Pork and fifty pounds of Beef, And it is further Ordered and Decreed that the said Defendent pay to John S. Burwell for the benefit of the said Plaintiff the sum of Five Dollars annually in the month of January to be expended by the said Burwell or by such person as the Court may hereafter appoint in the manner that the Court may direct from time to time, and the said John S. Burwell is appointed a Commissioner to see the foregoing carried into affect within a reasonable time, and it is further ordered and decreed the article, named in this decree required to be paid annually shall be paid the present year in the Month of May and that the said Defendant pay the Cost of this suit with Ten Dollars as the attorneys fee William C. Ashworth and Thomas Ross & of - Mo on DBd. Notice proven by the oath of Solomon Pasley DS. - Defendant called, first appearing. Judgement for Plaintiff according to Specialty and Cost.
Additional Comments:
It is unclear if this divorce was finalized but the couple did not reconcil as evidence Meshack Perdue's Will written in 1837 in Franklin Co., VA. He made no provisions for a wife and she is mentioned only briefly...."I also give my son Obediah, after the death of my wife, the negro Judith that is left to wait and tend on my wife duing her lifetime". There's no record of Meshack's marriage to Eleanor Dillon. They might have married ca 1784 in Henry Co., VA. Meshack's included in the 1786 tax list for Franklin Co., VA with one tithe, one horse and eight cattle. At his death in 1838 he made gifts to nine of his twelve children in the form of land, slaves (28), cash ($1200), a grist mill, saw mill, distrillery, etc. etc. He disinherited three of his twelve children giving them only one dollar..."for reasons best known be myself". According to family tradition Meshack was buried on his homeplace but his body moved to the Mark Perdue Family Cemetery where Eleanor Dillon Perdue was buried. A marker was placed on his grave many years after Meshack's death by his granddaughter Julia Kate Perdue.
******
Family Legends as reported by Willie Houston Brooks:
Meshach Perdue is said to have kept a lot of dogs.
Meshach possibly killed a peddler that was boarding with him. The peddler was said to have had a large sum of money for the day with him. His buggy and horse was found at the bottom of a high cliff without his body being found. After a lengthy time and investigation by the authorities, they were unable to find the body. Rumors begin to circulate that the body could be found buried under an apple tree in Meshach Perdue’s yard. Sure enough, it was found there but it was never proved who buried it there.
*****
From Yesterday and Today (1979)
Years ago a peddler went through the section now known as Redwood. He was carrying a lot of money. He saw a nice looking home, two lovely looking ladies that looked like good cooks, and he asked to spend the night. He never walked out of the house. Sometime during the night, the father of the two ladies killed the peddler, took his money, drove his buggy to a clift, pushed it over, swore his daughters to secret by threatening them. No one ever pushed the disappearance for it was thought he left the area. Years later, long after the father had died, and as one of the daughters lay dying, she confessed this terrible deed. It is said that neighbors did find the remains of the buggie and that to this day, the blood on the upstairs front room can not be scrubbed away. On rainy days it seems darker. One lady told of sleeping in that room and being unable to keep the cover on the bed. Others have spoke of the extream cold in that room. Some others say thay have noticed nothing except the blood in the floor.
******
My (JEB) 3rd great grandfather.
In the name of God, Amen!
I, Meshack Perdue, of the County of Franklin and State of Virginia being of sound mind and disposing memory, do make and constitute this my last Will and Testament, revoking all Wills heretofore made by me.
1st. I direct that all my just debts be paid and that all debts due to me be collected and speedially as consistent with justice and humanity.
2nd. I give to my son, Daniel Perdue, a Negro man by the name of Jordan, a Negro Woman by the name of Harriett and her child by the name of Squire, a Negro Man by the name of Thomas, all of which he has received into his possession, to him and his heirs forever.
3rd. I give to my son, Eli Perdue, a Negro Boy by the name of William, a Negro Man by the name of Robert, a Negro Man by the name of Henry, all of which he has received into his possession, to him and his heirs forever.
4th. I give to my son, Asa Perdue, a Negro Boy by the name of Dick, one other Negro Boy by the name of Lewis and Six hundred dollars in Cash, all of which he has received into his possession, to him and his heirs forever.
5th. I give to my son, Matthew Perdue, a Negro Girl by the name of Lucy, one other Negro Girl by the name of Fanny and Six hundred dollars in Cash, all of which he has received into his possession, to him and his heirs forever.
6th. I give to my son, Jesse Perdue, a Negro Woman by the name of Dilly and her three children by the names of Jane, Julia and James, one other Girl by the name of Milly, all of which he has received into his possession, to him and his heirs forever.
7th. I give to my son, Mark Perdue, a Negro Girl by the name of Ann, a Negro Man by the name of Frank, also a tract of Land on which my Grist and Saw Mill with all appurtenances thereunto belonging as it stands; supposed to contain One hundred and fifty acres and bounded as follows to wit; (Beginning at a corner Black Oak above the mill pond in Peter D. Holland's line and with said line to Ward's line and with Ward's line to a corner Black Oak at the lower end of the race paths and with the same to the head, thence along a new marked line to Obediah Perdue's line and with Holland's line to the head of the mill pond to pointers thence across the creek to the beginning). Also give to my said son my two stills, all of which he has received to his possession, to him and his heirs forever.
8th. I give to my son, Isaiah Perdue, a Negro Woman by the name of Priss and her four children by the names of Jane, John, Susan, and Terry, also one Negro man by the name of Daniel, also my Bed, Bedstead & furniture, also my yellow mare lately purchased for me by my son Mark, all of which he has in his possession, to him and his heirs forever.
9th. I give to my son, Obediah Perdue, a Negro Woman by the name of Hannah, a Negro Woman by the name of Amy, also my Tract of Land known by the name of Binyour Tracts which he has received in his possession. I also give to my said son Obediah, after the death of my wife, the Negro Girl Judith that is left to wait and tend on my said Wife during her life time and all that tract of Land whereon he the said Obediah now lives, the same having been deeded to him which will fully appear by reference to a deed recorded in the County Court of Franklin, to him and his heirs forever. Also my Jones Colt.
10th. For reasons best known to myself, I give to my son, Zechariah Perdue, one Dollar and no more in addition to what I have heretofore given him, to be paid to him after my death by my executors.
11th. For reasons best known to myself, I give to my son, John Perdue, one Dollar and no more in addition to what I have heretofore given him, to be paid to him after my death by my executors.
12th. For reasons best known to myself, I give to my daughter, Elizabeth Ward, one Dollar and no more in addition to what I have heretofore given him, to be paid to him after my death by my executors.
13th. I have reserved for my own use and benefit during my natural life my Negro Man Robert, a Black Smith by trade, and all monies in my possession or that may be due me by bonds or otherwise.
14th. I give to my Son, Mark Perdue, after my death, my Negro Man Robert that I have kept to wait on me during my life, to him and his heirs forever.
15th. I give go my Sons Daniel Perdue, Asa Perdue, Eli Perdue, Matthew Perdue, Jesse Perdue, Mark Perdue, Isaiah Perdue, Obediah Perdue and the heirs of Luke Perdue each one nineth part of all monies that I may have in my possession at my death, also all monies that may be due me by bonds or otherwise. It is understood and is my Will that Luke Perdue's children collectively is to receive only one ninth part in the 15th clause of the foregoing Will.
16th. Whereas there is Suits now pending between myself and John Perdue, one Suit in the court of appeals, one other suit in the Circuit Superior Court of Law and Chancery for Franklin County, should it so turn out that said suits should not be determined in my lifetime, than and in that case it is my Will and desire that my executors retain out of any money that may come into their hands belonging to my Estate as will be sufficient to satisfy and pay off all damages that I may sustain in the decision of said suits after said suits is ended. What sum of money that has been retained by my executors for the purpose above mentioned shall be paid as directed in the 15th Clause of this my last Will, one ninth part to each including the heirs of Luke Perdue.
17th. I appoint my sons, Mark Perdue and Isaiah Perdue, executors of this my last Will and Testament, requesting that the County Court of Franklin will not require them to give security as I have confidence they will do Justice to all persons concerned, in Testimony whereof, I, Meshack Perdue, have hereunto set my hand and seal this 27th day of December, 1837.
Meshack (X) Perdue (seal)
His Mark
In the presence of:
Stephen Preston
J. L. Burwell
Joshua Starkey
At a Court held for Franklin County the 5th day of February 1838, this last Will and Testament of Meshack Perdue dec'd. was produced in Court by the Executors herein named and offered for probate and thereupon the motion of John Perdue, by his attorney, the probate was continued until March Court. And at a Court held for the said County the 5th day of March 1838, this said will was again produced in Court and after hearing on oath the evidence of Stephen Preston, John L. Burwell and Joshua Starkey, the subscribing witnesses hereto, and the Testimony of other witnesses in opposition to, the probate was ordered to be recorded, and on motion of Mark Perdue and Isaiah Perdue, the executors herein named, who took the oath prescribed by law and gave bond conditioned according to law, the testator desiring herein named, who took the oath prescribed by law and gave bond conditioned according to law, the testator desiring that no security should be required, certificate is granted them for obtaining a probate of the said Will in due form. Teste: Caleb Tate C.F.C
(Note: Mark and Isaiah Perdue executed Meshack Perdue's will on January 24, 1840. The sum remaining was $321.54 ½ from a total estate of $5,831.02).
*****
Franklin Co., VA Order bk 6, pg 280 & 281
Eleanor Perdue.....Plaintiff
against Chancery
Meshack Perdue.....Defendant
This cause came on this day to be heard upon this Bill and answer, and the arguments of Counsel, and the Court. After mature deliberation and by the consent of the Parties doth Order and Decree and it is hereby Ordered and Decreed that the said Meshack Perdue furnish the Plaintiff during her natural lifetime, and the lifetime of the Defendant with a comfortable house to live in with four Acres of good land adjacent thereto for cultivation, that he also furnish her with a good feather Bed and furniture, four chairs, One Table, One Water pail and one Washing Tub, One two gallon pot, One oven, One skillet, half a dozen cups and saucers, one set plates. One set of Knives and forks. One set of Table sppons, one set Tea spoons, half a Dozen dishes. One Milk Cow and One negro girl of sufficient age and size to wait upon the Plaintiff and to assist her and her Labours, and it is also further ordered and Decreed that the said Defendant pay and deliver to the said Plaintiff annually after the present year in the month of January or February four barrels of corn, five bushels of Wheat, seven pounds of coffee, Twenty-one pounds of Brown Sugar, half a pound of Black pepper, half ditto of Ginger, half ditto of Alspice and one and an half bushels of Salt. One hundred and fifty pounds of good Pork and fifty pounds of Beef, And it is further Ordered and Decreed that the said Defendent pay to John S. Burwell for the benefit of the said Plaintiff the sum of Five Dollars annually in the month of January to be expended by the said Burwell or by such person as the Court may hereafter appoint in the manner that the Court may direct from time to time, and the said John S. Burwell is appointed a Commissioner to see the foregoing carried into affect within a reasonable time, and it is further ordered and decreed the article, named in this decree required to be paid annually shall be paid the present year in the Month of May and that the said Defendant pay the Cost of this suit with Ten Dollars as the attorneys fee William C. Ashworth and Thomas Ross & of - Mo on DBd. Notice proven by the oath of Solomon Pasley DS. - Defendant called, first appearing. Judgement for Plaintiff according to Specialty and Cost.
Additional Comments:
It is unclear if this divorce was finalized but the couple did not reconcil as evidence Meshack Perdue's Will written in 1837 in Franklin Co., VA. He made no provisions for a wife and she is mentioned only briefly...."I also give my son Obediah, after the death of my wife, the negro Judith that is left to wait and tend on my wife duing her lifetime". There's no record of Meshack's marriage to Eleanor Dillon. They might have married ca 1784 in Henry Co., VA. Meshack's included in the 1786 tax list for Franklin Co., VA with one tithe, one horse and eight cattle. At his death in 1838 he made gifts to nine of his twelve children in the form of land, slaves (28), cash ($1200), a grist mill, saw mill, distrillery, etc. etc. He disinherited three of his twelve children giving them only one dollar..."for reasons best known be myself". According to family tradition Meshack was buried on his homeplace but his body moved to the Mark Perdue Family Cemetery where Eleanor Dillon Perdue was buried. A marker was placed on his grave many years after Meshack's death by his granddaughter Julia Kate Perdue.
******
Family Legends as reported by Willie Houston Brooks:
Meshach Perdue is said to have kept a lot of dogs.
Meshach possibly killed a peddler that was boarding with him. The peddler was said to have had a large sum of money for the day with him. His buggy and horse was found at the bottom of a high cliff without his body being found. After a lengthy time and investigation by the authorities, they were unable to find the body. Rumors begin to circulate that the body could be found buried under an apple tree in Meshach Perdue’s yard. Sure enough, it was found there but it was never proved who buried it there.
*****
From Yesterday and Today (1979)
Years ago a peddler went through the section now known as Redwood. He was carrying a lot of money. He saw a nice looking home, two lovely looking ladies that looked like good cooks, and he asked to spend the night. He never walked out of the house. Sometime during the night, the father of the two ladies killed the peddler, took his money, drove his buggy to a clift, pushed it over, swore his daughters to secret by threatening them. No one ever pushed the disappearance for it was thought he left the area. Years later, long after the father had died, and as one of the daughters lay dying, she confessed this terrible deed. It is said that neighbors did find the remains of the buggie and that to this day, the blood on the upstairs front room can not be scrubbed away. On rainy days it seems darker. One lady told of sleeping in that room and being unable to keep the cover on the bed. Others have spoke of the extream cold in that room. Some others say thay have noticed nothing except the blood in the floor.
******
My (JEB) 3rd great grandfather.
LAST WILL AND TESTAMENT OF MESHACK PERDUE, In the Clerk's Office of the Circuit Court of Franklin County VA, Will Book 4, and Page 391:
In the name of God, Amen!
I, Meshack Perdue, of the County of Franklin and State of Virginia being of sound mind and disposing memory, do make and constitute this my last Will and Testament, revoking all Wills heretofore made by me.
1st. I direct that all my just debts be paid and that all debts due to me be collected and speedially as consistent with justice and humanity.
2nd. I give to my son, Daniel Perdue, a Negro man by the name of Jordan, a Negro Woman by the name of Harriett and her child by the name of Squire, a Negro Man by the name of Thomas, all of which he has received into his possession, to him and his heirs forever.
3rd. I give to my son, Eli Perdue, a Negro Boy by the name of William, a Negro Man by the name of Robert, a Negro Man by the name of Henry, all of which he has received into his possession, to him and his heirs forever.
4th. I give to my son, Asa Perdue, a Negro Boy by the name of Dick, one other Negro Boy by the name of Lewis and Six hundred dollars in Cash, all of which he has received into his possession, to him and his heirs forever.
5th. I give to my son, Matthew Perdue, a Negro Girl by the name of Lucy, one other Negro Girl by the name of Fanny and Six hundred dollars in Cash, all of which he has received into his possession, to him and his heirs forever.
6th. I give to my son, Jesse Perdue, a Negro Woman by the name of Dilly and her three children by the names of Jane, Julia and James, one other Girl by the name of Milly, all of which he has received into his possession, to him and his heirs forever.
7th. I give to my son, Mark Perdue, a Negro Girl by the name of Ann, a Negro Man by the name of Frank, also a tract of Land on which my Grist and Saw Mill with all appurtenances thereunto belonging as it stands; supposed to contain One hundred and fifty acres and bounded as follows to wit; (Beginning at a corner Black Oak above the mill pond in Peter D. Holland's line and with said line to Ward's line and with Ward's line to a corner Black Oak at the lower end of the race paths and with the same to the head, thence along a new marked line to Obediah Perdue's line and with Holland's line to the head of the mill pond to pointers thence across the creek to the beginning). Also give to my said son my two stills, all of which he has received to his possession, to him and his heirs forever.
8th. I give to my son, Isaiah Perdue, a Negro Woman by the name of Priss and her four children by the names of Jane, John, Susan, and Terry, also one Negro man by the name of Daniel, also my Bed, Bedstead & furniture, also my yellow mare lately purchased for me by my son Mark, all of which he has in his possession, to him and his heirs forever.
9th. I give to my son, Obediah Perdue, a Negro Woman by the name of Hannah, a Negro Woman by the name of Amy, also my Tract of Land known by the name of Binyour Tracts which he has received in his possession. I also give to my said son Obediah, after the death of my wife, the Negro Girl Judith that is left to wait and tend on my said Wife during her life time and all that tract of Land whereon he the said Obediah now lives, the same having been deeded to him which will fully appear by reference to a deed recorded in the County Court of Franklin, to him and his heirs forever. Also my Jones Colt.
10th. For reasons best known to myself, I give to my son, Zechariah Perdue, one Dollar and no more in addition to what I have heretofore given him, to be paid to him after my death by my executors.
11th. For reasons best known to myself, I give to my son, John Perdue, one Dollar and no more in addition to what I have heretofore given him, to be paid to him after my death by my executors.
12th. For reasons best known to myself, I give to my daughter, Elizabeth Ward, one Dollar and no more in addition to what I have heretofore given him, to be paid to him after my death by my executors.
13th. I have reserved for my own use and benefit during my natural life my Negro Man Robert, a Black Smith by trade, and all monies in my possession or that may be due me by bonds or otherwise.
14th. I give to my Son, Mark Perdue, after my death, my Negro Man Robert that I have kept to wait on me during my life, to him and his heirs forever.
15th. I give go my Sons Daniel Perdue, Asa Perdue, Eli Perdue, Matthew Perdue, Jesse Perdue, Mark Perdue, Isaiah Perdue, Obediah Perdue and the heirs of Luke Perdue each one nineth part of all monies that I may have in my possession at my death, also all monies that may be due me by bonds or otherwise. It is understood and is my Will that Luke Perdue's children collectively is to receive only one ninth part in the 15th clause of the foregoing Will.
16th. Whereas there is Suits now pending between myself and John Perdue, one Suit in the court of appeals, one other suit in the Circuit Superior Court of Law and Chancery for Franklin County, should it so turn out that said suits should not be determined in my lifetime, than and in that case it is my Will and desire that my executors retain out of any money that may come into their hands belonging to my Estate as will be sufficient to satisfy and pay off all damages that I may sustain in the decision of said suits after said suits is ended. What sum of money that has been retained by my executors for the purpose above mentioned shall be paid as directed in the 15th Clause of this my last Will, one ninth part to each including the heirs of Luke Perdue.
17th. I appoint my sons, Mark Perdue and Isaiah Perdue, executors of this my last Will and Testament, requesting that the County Court of Franklin will not require them to give security as I have confidence they will do Justice to all persons concerned, in Testimony whereof, I, Meshack Perdue, have hereunto set my hand and seal this 27th day of December, 1837.
Meshack (X) Perdue (seal)
His Mark
In the presence of:
Stephen Preston
J. L. Burwell
Joshua Starkey
At a Court held for Franklin County the 5th day of February 1838, this last Will and Testament of Meshack Perdue dec'd. was produced in Court by the Executors herein named and offered for probate and thereupon the motion of John Perdue, by his attorney, the probate was continued until March Court. And at a Court held for the said County the 5th day of March 1838, this said will was again produced in Court and after hearing on oath the evidence of Stephen Preston, John L. Burwell and Joshua Starkey, the subscribing witnesses hereto, and the Testimony of other witnesses in opposition to, the probate was ordered to be recorded, and on motion of Mark Perdue and Isaiah Perdue, the executors herein named, who took the oath prescribed by law and gave bond conditioned according to law, the testator desiring herein named, who took the oath prescribed by law and gave bond conditioned according to law, the testator desiring that no security should be required, certificate is granted them for obtaining a probate of the said Will in due form. Teste: Caleb Tate C.F.C
(Note: Mark and Isaiah Perdue executed Meshack Perdue's will on January 24, 1840. The sum remaining was $321.54 ½ from a total estate of $5,831.02).
*****
Franklin Co., VA Order bk 6, pg 280 & 281
Eleanor Perdue.....Plaintiff
against Chancery
Meshack Perdue.....Defendant
This cause came on this day to be heard upon this Bill and answer, and the arguments of Counsel, and the Court. After mature deliberation and by the consent of the Parties doth Order and Decree and it is hereby Ordered and Decreed that the said Meshack Perdue furnish the Plaintiff during her natural lifetime, and the lifetime of the Defendant with a comfortable house to live in with four Acres of good land adjacent thereto for cultivation, that he also furnish her with a good feather Bed and furniture, four chairs, One Table, One Water pail and one Washing Tub, One two gallon pot, One oven, One skillet, half a dozen cups and saucers, one set plates. One set of Knives and forks. One set of Table sppons, one set Tea spoons, half a Dozen dishes. One Milk Cow and One negro girl of sufficient age and size to wait upon the Plaintiff and to assist her and her Labours, and it is also further ordered and Decreed that the said Defendant pay and deliver to the said Plaintiff annually after the present year in the month of January or February four barrels of corn, five bushels of Wheat, seven pounds of coffee, Twenty-one pounds of Brown Sugar, half a pound of Black pepper, half ditto of Ginger, half ditto of Alspice and one and an half bushels of Salt. One hundred and fifty pounds of good Pork and fifty pounds of Beef, And it is further Ordered and Decreed that the said Defendent pay to John S. Burwell for the benefit of the said Plaintiff the sum of Five Dollars annually in the month of January to be expended by the said Burwell or by such person as the Court may hereafter appoint in the manner that the Court may direct from time to time, and the said John S. Burwell is appointed a Commissioner to see the foregoing carried into affect within a reasonable time, and it is further ordered and decreed the article, named in this decree required to be paid annually shall be paid the present year in the Month of May and that the said Defendant pay the Cost of this suit with Ten Dollars as the attorneys fee William C. Ashworth and Thomas Ross & of - Mo on DBd. Notice proven by the oath of Solomon Pasley DS. - Defendant called, first appearing. Judgement for Plaintiff according to Specialty and Cost.
Additional Comments:
It is unclear if this divorce was finalized but the couple did not reconcil as evidence Meshack Perdue's Will written in 1837 in Franklin Co., VA. He made no provisions for a wife and she is mentioned only briefly...."I also give my son Obediah, after the death of my wife, the negro Judith that is left to wait and tend on my wife duing her lifetime". There's no record of Meshack's marriage to Eleanor Dillon. They might have married ca 1784 in Henry Co., VA. Meshack's included in the 1786 tax list for Franklin Co., VA with one tithe, one horse and eight cattle. At his death in 1838 he made gifts to nine of his twelve children in the form of land, slaves (28), cash ($1200), a grist mill, saw mill, distrillery, etc. etc. He disinherited three of his twelve children giving them only one dollar..."for reasons best known be myself". According to family tradition Meshack was buried on his homeplace but his body moved to the Mark Perdue Family Cemetery where Eleanor Dillon Perdue was buried. A marker was placed on his grave many years after Meshack's death by his granddaughter Julia Kate Perdue.
******
Family Legends as reported by Willie Houston Brooks:
Meshach Perdue is said to have kept a lot of dogs.
Meshach possibly killed a peddler that was boarding with him. The peddler was said to have had a large sum of money for the day with him. His buggy and horse was found at the bottom of a high cliff without his body being found. After a lengthy time and investigation by the authorities, they were unable to find the body. Rumors begin to circulate that the body could be found buried under an apple tree in Meshach Perdue’s yard. Sure enough, it was found there but it was never proved who buried it there.
*****
From Yesterday and Today (1979)
Years ago a peddler went through the section now known as Redwood. He was carrying a lot of money. He saw a nice looking home, two lovely looking ladies that looked like good cooks, and he asked to spend the night. He never walked out of the house. Sometime during the night, the father of the two ladies killed the peddler, took his money, drove his buggy to a clift, pushed it over, swore his daughters to secret by threatening them. No one ever pushed the disappearance for it was thought he left the area. Years later, long after the father had died, and as one of the daughters lay dying, she confessed this terrible deed. It is said that neighbors did find the remains of the buggie and that to this day, the blood on the upstairs front room can not be scrubbed away. On rainy days it seems darker. One lady told of sleeping in that room and being unable to keep the cover on the bed. Others have spoke of the extream cold in that room. Some others say thay have noticed nothing except the blood in the floor.
******
My (JEB) 3rd great grandfather.
In the name of God, Amen!
I, Meshack Perdue, of the County of Franklin and State of Virginia being of sound mind and disposing memory, do make and constitute this my last Will and Testament, revoking all Wills heretofore made by me.
1st. I direct that all my just debts be paid and that all debts due to me be collected and speedially as consistent with justice and humanity.
2nd. I give to my son, Daniel Perdue, a Negro man by the name of Jordan, a Negro Woman by the name of Harriett and her child by the name of Squire, a Negro Man by the name of Thomas, all of which he has received into his possession, to him and his heirs forever.
3rd. I give to my son, Eli Perdue, a Negro Boy by the name of William, a Negro Man by the name of Robert, a Negro Man by the name of Henry, all of which he has received into his possession, to him and his heirs forever.
4th. I give to my son, Asa Perdue, a Negro Boy by the name of Dick, one other Negro Boy by the name of Lewis and Six hundred dollars in Cash, all of which he has received into his possession, to him and his heirs forever.
5th. I give to my son, Matthew Perdue, a Negro Girl by the name of Lucy, one other Negro Girl by the name of Fanny and Six hundred dollars in Cash, all of which he has received into his possession, to him and his heirs forever.
6th. I give to my son, Jesse Perdue, a Negro Woman by the name of Dilly and her three children by the names of Jane, Julia and James, one other Girl by the name of Milly, all of which he has received into his possession, to him and his heirs forever.
7th. I give to my son, Mark Perdue, a Negro Girl by the name of Ann, a Negro Man by the name of Frank, also a tract of Land on which my Grist and Saw Mill with all appurtenances thereunto belonging as it stands; supposed to contain One hundred and fifty acres and bounded as follows to wit; (Beginning at a corner Black Oak above the mill pond in Peter D. Holland's line and with said line to Ward's line and with Ward's line to a corner Black Oak at the lower end of the race paths and with the same to the head, thence along a new marked line to Obediah Perdue's line and with Holland's line to the head of the mill pond to pointers thence across the creek to the beginning). Also give to my said son my two stills, all of which he has received to his possession, to him and his heirs forever.
8th. I give to my son, Isaiah Perdue, a Negro Woman by the name of Priss and her four children by the names of Jane, John, Susan, and Terry, also one Negro man by the name of Daniel, also my Bed, Bedstead & furniture, also my yellow mare lately purchased for me by my son Mark, all of which he has in his possession, to him and his heirs forever.
9th. I give to my son, Obediah Perdue, a Negro Woman by the name of Hannah, a Negro Woman by the name of Amy, also my Tract of Land known by the name of Binyour Tracts which he has received in his possession. I also give to my said son Obediah, after the death of my wife, the Negro Girl Judith that is left to wait and tend on my said Wife during her life time and all that tract of Land whereon he the said Obediah now lives, the same having been deeded to him which will fully appear by reference to a deed recorded in the County Court of Franklin, to him and his heirs forever. Also my Jones Colt.
10th. For reasons best known to myself, I give to my son, Zechariah Perdue, one Dollar and no more in addition to what I have heretofore given him, to be paid to him after my death by my executors.
11th. For reasons best known to myself, I give to my son, John Perdue, one Dollar and no more in addition to what I have heretofore given him, to be paid to him after my death by my executors.
12th. For reasons best known to myself, I give to my daughter, Elizabeth Ward, one Dollar and no more in addition to what I have heretofore given him, to be paid to him after my death by my executors.
13th. I have reserved for my own use and benefit during my natural life my Negro Man Robert, a Black Smith by trade, and all monies in my possession or that may be due me by bonds or otherwise.
14th. I give to my Son, Mark Perdue, after my death, my Negro Man Robert that I have kept to wait on me during my life, to him and his heirs forever.
15th. I give go my Sons Daniel Perdue, Asa Perdue, Eli Perdue, Matthew Perdue, Jesse Perdue, Mark Perdue, Isaiah Perdue, Obediah Perdue and the heirs of Luke Perdue each one nineth part of all monies that I may have in my possession at my death, also all monies that may be due me by bonds or otherwise. It is understood and is my Will that Luke Perdue's children collectively is to receive only one ninth part in the 15th clause of the foregoing Will.
16th. Whereas there is Suits now pending between myself and John Perdue, one Suit in the court of appeals, one other suit in the Circuit Superior Court of Law and Chancery for Franklin County, should it so turn out that said suits should not be determined in my lifetime, than and in that case it is my Will and desire that my executors retain out of any money that may come into their hands belonging to my Estate as will be sufficient to satisfy and pay off all damages that I may sustain in the decision of said suits after said suits is ended. What sum of money that has been retained by my executors for the purpose above mentioned shall be paid as directed in the 15th Clause of this my last Will, one ninth part to each including the heirs of Luke Perdue.
17th. I appoint my sons, Mark Perdue and Isaiah Perdue, executors of this my last Will and Testament, requesting that the County Court of Franklin will not require them to give security as I have confidence they will do Justice to all persons concerned, in Testimony whereof, I, Meshack Perdue, have hereunto set my hand and seal this 27th day of December, 1837.
Meshack (X) Perdue (seal)
His Mark
In the presence of:
Stephen Preston
J. L. Burwell
Joshua Starkey
At a Court held for Franklin County the 5th day of February 1838, this last Will and Testament of Meshack Perdue dec'd. was produced in Court by the Executors herein named and offered for probate and thereupon the motion of John Perdue, by his attorney, the probate was continued until March Court. And at a Court held for the said County the 5th day of March 1838, this said will was again produced in Court and after hearing on oath the evidence of Stephen Preston, John L. Burwell and Joshua Starkey, the subscribing witnesses hereto, and the Testimony of other witnesses in opposition to, the probate was ordered to be recorded, and on motion of Mark Perdue and Isaiah Perdue, the executors herein named, who took the oath prescribed by law and gave bond conditioned according to law, the testator desiring herein named, who took the oath prescribed by law and gave bond conditioned according to law, the testator desiring that no security should be required, certificate is granted them for obtaining a probate of the said Will in due form. Teste: Caleb Tate C.F.C
(Note: Mark and Isaiah Perdue executed Meshack Perdue's will on January 24, 1840. The sum remaining was $321.54 ½ from a total estate of $5,831.02).
*****
Franklin Co., VA Order bk 6, pg 280 & 281
Eleanor Perdue.....Plaintiff
against Chancery
Meshack Perdue.....Defendant
This cause came on this day to be heard upon this Bill and answer, and the arguments of Counsel, and the Court. After mature deliberation and by the consent of the Parties doth Order and Decree and it is hereby Ordered and Decreed that the said Meshack Perdue furnish the Plaintiff during her natural lifetime, and the lifetime of the Defendant with a comfortable house to live in with four Acres of good land adjacent thereto for cultivation, that he also furnish her with a good feather Bed and furniture, four chairs, One Table, One Water pail and one Washing Tub, One two gallon pot, One oven, One skillet, half a dozen cups and saucers, one set plates. One set of Knives and forks. One set of Table sppons, one set Tea spoons, half a Dozen dishes. One Milk Cow and One negro girl of sufficient age and size to wait upon the Plaintiff and to assist her and her Labours, and it is also further ordered and Decreed that the said Defendant pay and deliver to the said Plaintiff annually after the present year in the month of January or February four barrels of corn, five bushels of Wheat, seven pounds of coffee, Twenty-one pounds of Brown Sugar, half a pound of Black pepper, half ditto of Ginger, half ditto of Alspice and one and an half bushels of Salt. One hundred and fifty pounds of good Pork and fifty pounds of Beef, And it is further Ordered and Decreed that the said Defendent pay to John S. Burwell for the benefit of the said Plaintiff the sum of Five Dollars annually in the month of January to be expended by the said Burwell or by such person as the Court may hereafter appoint in the manner that the Court may direct from time to time, and the said John S. Burwell is appointed a Commissioner to see the foregoing carried into affect within a reasonable time, and it is further ordered and decreed the article, named in this decree required to be paid annually shall be paid the present year in the Month of May and that the said Defendant pay the Cost of this suit with Ten Dollars as the attorneys fee William C. Ashworth and Thomas Ross & of - Mo on DBd. Notice proven by the oath of Solomon Pasley DS. - Defendant called, first appearing. Judgement for Plaintiff according to Specialty and Cost.
Additional Comments:
It is unclear if this divorce was finalized but the couple did not reconcil as evidence Meshack Perdue's Will written in 1837 in Franklin Co., VA. He made no provisions for a wife and she is mentioned only briefly...."I also give my son Obediah, after the death of my wife, the negro Judith that is left to wait and tend on my wife duing her lifetime". There's no record of Meshack's marriage to Eleanor Dillon. They might have married ca 1784 in Henry Co., VA. Meshack's included in the 1786 tax list for Franklin Co., VA with one tithe, one horse and eight cattle. At his death in 1838 he made gifts to nine of his twelve children in the form of land, slaves (28), cash ($1200), a grist mill, saw mill, distrillery, etc. etc. He disinherited three of his twelve children giving them only one dollar..."for reasons best known be myself". According to family tradition Meshack was buried on his homeplace but his body moved to the Mark Perdue Family Cemetery where Eleanor Dillon Perdue was buried. A marker was placed on his grave many years after Meshack's death by his granddaughter Julia Kate Perdue.
******
Family Legends as reported by Willie Houston Brooks:
Meshach Perdue is said to have kept a lot of dogs.
Meshach possibly killed a peddler that was boarding with him. The peddler was said to have had a large sum of money for the day with him. His buggy and horse was found at the bottom of a high cliff without his body being found. After a lengthy time and investigation by the authorities, they were unable to find the body. Rumors begin to circulate that the body could be found buried under an apple tree in Meshach Perdue’s yard. Sure enough, it was found there but it was never proved who buried it there.
*****
From Yesterday and Today (1979)
Years ago a peddler went through the section now known as Redwood. He was carrying a lot of money. He saw a nice looking home, two lovely looking ladies that looked like good cooks, and he asked to spend the night. He never walked out of the house. Sometime during the night, the father of the two ladies killed the peddler, took his money, drove his buggy to a clift, pushed it over, swore his daughters to secret by threatening them. No one ever pushed the disappearance for it was thought he left the area. Years later, long after the father had died, and as one of the daughters lay dying, she confessed this terrible deed. It is said that neighbors did find the remains of the buggie and that to this day, the blood on the upstairs front room can not be scrubbed away. On rainy days it seems darker. One lady told of sleeping in that room and being unable to keep the cover on the bed. Others have spoke of the extream cold in that room. Some others say thay have noticed nothing except the blood in the floor.
******
My (JEB) 3rd great grandfather.
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