John Nelson Curtis1

M, b. 28 February 1845, d. 6 January 1892
FatherRobert Curtis1 b. 3 Sep 1815, d. 6 May 1891
MotherEmily (Emalee) Curtis1 b. 31 Jan 1817, d. 21 Jan 1878
Last Edited28 Jan 2013
Birth*John Nelson Curtis was born on 28 February 1845 at McDowell, North Carolina; cemetery record is Jno. K.1,2 
(Witness) CensusHe appeared on the census of 14 August 1850 McDowell, North Carolina, in the household of Robert Curtis and Emily (Emalee) Curtis; page 272, occupation farmer, renting, 5 children at home.1 
(Witness) CensusJohn Nelson Curtis appeared on the census of 21 August 1860 Osage Mills P.O., Anderson Twp., Benton, Arkansas, in the household of Robert Curtis and Emily (Emalee) Curtis; page 427, occupation blacksmith, real estate valued at $3,000, personal $2,000, 6 children at home.3 
Marriage*John Nelson Curtis married Phoebe Adelaide (Addie) Mallory on 15 April 1865 at Dallas, Texas; Addie was previously married to Burroughs.4,5,6 
Census*John Nelson Curtis appeared on the census of 30 July 1870 at Bentonville P.O., Osage Twp., Benton, Arkansas, page 301, occupation farmer, renting, 3 children at home.5 
CensusHe appeared on the census of 5 June 1880 at Bentonville, Benton, Arkansas, page 460A, occupation grocery keeper, 6 children at home.7 
Death*He died on 6 January 1892 at Bentonville, Benton, Arkansas, at age 46; buried at the Bentonville Cemetery; note that the cemetery transcription and the obituary dates are inconsistent.8,2 
ObitJohn Nelson's obituary was published in the Benton County Democrat on 1 July 1892:
John N. Curtis died yesterday afternoon after a long illness. He had a severe attack last summer but recovered to some extent but was taken ill again a few days ago which resulted in his death. He is an old citizen of Bentonville and leaves a large family to mourn their loss [Benton County Democrat 7/1/92] Buried at the Bentonville Cemetery.9 
(Witness) BioJohn Nelson Curtis was appointed U.S. Deputy Marshal for the Western District of Arkansas and Indiana Territory in May 1887.
"John Curtis was appointed to fill Dan Maples' position after Maples was murdered. Curtis was pursuing the five men charges with Maples murder. " (Fort Smith Elevator), May 13, 1887
"Deputy U.S. Marshal John Curtis arrived here with Charley Bobtail. Bobtail says John Parish did the shooting that killed Deputy Maples. Bobtail does not deny being with the other parties charged with this crime." (Fort Smith Elevator), May 20, 1887
"On the same day that Thomas Trainer was killed, Deputy Marshal Curtis arrested on Hogshooter and one Bobtail (the latter is the brother of Charley Bobtail, now in jail at this place) for complicity in the murder of Deputy Dan Maples. He also arrested Kate Terrell, Alice Bell and Amanda Walker for introducing and selling whiskey in Indian Country. It was a lively day for Tahlequah." (Fort Smith Elevator), July 8, 1887
"Deputy John Curtis got in Monday with W.B. Bishop, who is charged with introducing and selling whiskey. He gave bond for his appearance at court and was released." (Fort Smith Elevator), December 2, 1887.
John Parish, Indian Bootlegger, Outlaw - One of the two accused of the killing of U. S. Deputy Marshal Dan Maples, arrested by Deputy JOHN CURTIS
"Deputy John Curtis was in charge of the preliminary investigation into Maples' murder", "Heck Thomas: Frontier Marshal", Glenn Shirley, author
"Deputy John Curtis brought Charley Bobtail in (to that city) for the murder of Dan Maples" Fayetteville Gazette, Fayetteville, Arkansas, May, 1887 issue
"Charley Bobtail, who is accused of killing Marshal Maples, at this place (Tahlequah) on the night of this month, was arrested by Deputy Marshals last week, and carried to Bentonville, Arkansas, from which place he will be taken to Ft. Smith for trial." Cherokee Advocate, Tahlequah, IT, May 18, 1887 [quotes found by Luanne Hale]. 
NoteB* John N. Curtis attended a CSA Reunion held August 27-28, 1891. He signed in as John N., Co. "F" 2nd Cherokee Mounted Rifles,Colonel Stand Watie, Commander. He listed his age as 46, and his birthplace as McDowell County, N.C. He was born 2/28/1845 and died 1/06/1892. He is buried in Bentonville cemetery southwest of Addie. Also listed is a daughter, Johnnie, died 10/31/1881 aged 19 days.
THE CONFEDERATE VETERANS' REUNION INBENTONVILLE IN SEPTEMBER 1891: Nearly 10,000 people present, states the Benton County Sun. Seldom is it our fortune to chronicle such pleasant events as was the Confederate Reunion which ocurred here in Bentonville, last Thursday and Friday.Thousands and thousands of people from far and near were in attendance, and from the smiles each one wore, it was evident each enjoyed themselves. Old veterans who wore the "gray" met there and blended in one joyous and friendly throng, and talked over the bygone days - - when shot and shell and battlefield carnage made widows and orphans by the scores. All went away feeling "it was good for them to be here." There was a large attendance both days, and hundreds of "vets" with their families bivouaced beneath the shade trees in "Spring Park" (just east of the present courthouse). The procession on both days were grand affairs, and spoke well for the parties who had them in charge.The names of the veterans attending were enrolled in B.F. Dunn'sRecords. Sept. 5, 1891 Harvey L. Cross, Editor.10 

Family

Phoebe Adelaide (Addie) Mallory b. 4 Jul 1848, d. 12 May 1893
Children

Citations

  1. [S1] Census of Population 1850.
  2. [S1285] Northwest Arkansas Genealogical Society, Benton County Cemeteries, Bentonville Cemetery.
  3. [S1] Census of Population 1860.
  4. [S1158] Barbara P. Easley, Benton County Obituaries, Volume I, page 126.
  5. [S1] Census of Population 1870.
  6. [S1612] Ed Curtis Jr. and Etta Hammer, "Descendants of John Curtis and Rufina Leatherwood", Ancestral File, from Dallas County marriage book.
  7. [S1] Census of Population 1880.
  8. [S1158] Barbara P. Easley, Benton County Obituaries, Volume I, page 91.
  9. [S1158] Barbara P. Easley, Benton County Obituaries.
  10. [S2170] Luanne Hale, "Podpechan Hale Family", Ancestral File.
  11. [S1] Census of Population 1900.

Mary Jane (Mollie) Curtis1,2

F, b. 14 June 1847, d. 7 November 1928
FatherRobert Curtis3 b. 3 Sep 1815, d. 6 May 1891
MotherEmily (Emalee) Curtis3 b. 31 Jan 1817, d. 21 Jan 1878
Last Edited28 Jan 2013
Birth*Mary Jane (Mollie) Curtis was born on 14 June 1847 at McDowell, North Carolina.3,4 
(Witness) CensusShe appeared on the census of 14 August 1850 McDowell, North Carolina, in the household of Robert Curtis and Emily (Emalee) Curtis; page 272, occupation farmer, renting, 5 children at home.3 
(Witness) CensusMary Jane (Mollie) Curtis appeared on the census of 21 August 1860 Osage Mills P.O., Anderson Twp., Benton, Arkansas, in the household of Robert Curtis and Emily (Emalee) Curtis; page 427, occupation blacksmith, real estate valued at $3,000, personal $2,000, 6 children at home.5 
Married Name As of 30 October 1866,her married name was Greenwood.6 
Marriage*Mary Jane (Mollie) Curtis married George M. Greenwood on 30 October 1866 at Benton, Arkansas; by John P. Maxwell, J.P; Mary age 18, George age 27.6 
Census*Mary Jane (Mollie) Curtis and George M. Greenwood appeared on the census of 12 July 1870 at Cedar Twp., Carroll, Arkansas, page 71, occupation work in steam mill, renting, 2 children at home.7 
CensusMary Jane (Mollie) Curtis and George M. Greenwood appeared on the census of 5 June 1880 at Bentonville, Benton, Arkansas, page 459D, occupation farmer, 4 children and Robert Curtis at home.8 
NoteB* Unable to locate family in 1900 census.9 
Death*Mary Jane (Mollie) Curtis died on 7 November 1928 at Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, Oklahoma, at age 81; buried at IOOF Cemetery in Monett, Missouri. Research Note: This person was entered from IOOF log book and was buried in the Old Section, Block 26, Lot 3, Grave 4. She was buried on Nov. 8, 1928. The lot owner was C. M. Livesay. Callaway Funeral Home records state that Mary J. was 80 years, 4 months and 22 days old and was married. Her parents names were not mentioned. The cause of death was coronary embolism. No stone.4 

Family

George M. Greenwood b. 1 Oct 1839, d. 10 Dec 1887
Children

Citations

  1. [S1] Census of Population 1850-1870.
  2. [S875] Frances Curtis Bogy, Curtis Genealogy, page 268.
  3. [S1] Census of Population 1850.
  4. [S2170] Luanne Hale, "Podpechan Hale Family", Ancestral File.
  5. [S1] Census of Population 1860.
  6. [S1283] Arkansas Society DAR, Benton County Marriages, Book A, page 66.
  7. [S1] Census of Population 1870.
  8. [S1] Census of Population 1880.
  9. [S1] Census of Population 1900.
  10. [S1388] Tennessee State Library and Archives, Tennessee Death Records Index, death certificate.

Joshua Curtis1,2

M, b. 18 June 1818, d. 16 June 1885
FatherWilliam Curtis1,2 b. c 1787, d. 14 Dec 1852
MotherMary (Polly) Crowder1,2 b. May 1792, d. bt 1861 - 1870
Last Edited12 Sep 2008
Birth*Joshua Curtis was born on 18 June 1818 at Burke, North Carolina.3,4 
Marriage*He married Caroline Martha Craig on 4 January 1841 at Burke, North Carolina; date from Marge Curtis Asay; original source unknown.5,6,7 
Census*Joshua Curtis and Caroline Martha Craig appeared on the census of 14 August 1850 at McDowell, North Carolina, page 272, occupation farmer, renting, 2 children at home.5 
CensusJoshua Curtis and Caroline Martha Craig appeared on the census of 18 June 1860 at Marion P.O., McDowell, North Carolina, page 175, occupation farmer, renting, 4 children at home.8 
CensusJoshua Curtis and Caroline Martha Craig appeared on the census of 16 August 1870 at Old Fort P.O., Old Fort Township, McDowell, North Carolina, page 659, occupation farmer, renting, 1 son at home.9 
CensusJoshua Curtis appeared on the census of 1 June 1880 at Third Precinct, Fremont, Colorado, page 484A, no occupation living with Augustus, listed as married but no wife present.1 
Land Entry*He entered land on 20 April 1884 at Fremont, Colorado, 120 acres, at the Pueblo Land Office.10 
CensusHe and Caroline Martha Craig appeared on the census of 1885 at Fremont, Colorado, Alexander's family and an unknown S.B. or J.B. Curtis, age 22, b. NC, lived with them.11 
Death*Joshua Curtis died on 16 June 1885 at Beaver Creek, Fremont, Colorado, at age 66; buried at Greenwood Cemetery.4,12 

Family

Caroline Martha Craig b. 12 May 1820, d. 27 Dec 1892
Children

Citations

  1. [S1] Census of Population 1880.
  2. [S1148] Helen Nuffer, "Ancestral File of Helen Nuffer", Ancestral File.
  3. [S1] Census of Population 1850-1880.
  4. [S1614] Fremont Colorado GenWeb Archives, Fremont County Colorado Cemeteries, Greenwood.
  5. [S1] Census of Population 1850.
  6. [S1149] Edward Peele Williams, "Ancestral File - McCurry and Curtis Families", Ancestral File.
  7. [S1651] Marge Curtis Asay, "Descendants of James Delbert Curtis", Ancestral File.
  8. [S1] Census of Population 1860.
  9. [S1] Census of Population 1870.
  10. [S1640] Kathleen Curtis Uhland, "Colorado Curtis Family Research", Ancestral File.
  11. [S1] Census of Population 1885 Colorado State Census.
  12. [S1648] Canon City Record, Various.

Caroline Martha Craig1,2,3

F, b. 12 May 1820, d. 27 December 1892
Last Edited12 Sep 2008
Birth*Caroline Martha Craig was born on 12 May 1820 at North Carolina.1,4 
Married Name As of 4 January 1841,her married name was Curtis.1,2,5 
Marriage*She married Joshua Curtis, son of William Curtis and Mary (Polly) Crowder, on 4 January 1841 at Burke, North Carolina; date from Marge Curtis Asay; original source unknown.1,2,5 
CensusCaroline Martha Craig and Joshua Curtis appeared on the census of 14 August 1850 at McDowell, North Carolina, page 272, occupation farmer, renting, 2 children at home.1 
CensusCaroline Martha Craig and Joshua Curtis appeared on the census of 18 June 1860 at Marion P.O., McDowell, North Carolina, page 175, occupation farmer, renting, 4 children at home.6 
CensusCaroline Martha Craig and Joshua Curtis appeared on the census of 16 August 1870 at Old Fort P.O., Old Fort Township, McDowell, North Carolina, page 659, occupation farmer, renting, 1 son at home.7 
Census*Caroline Martha Craig appeared on the census of 4 June 1880 at Third Precinct, Fremont, Colorado, page 484A, occupation keeping house, married, lived with Ephraim rather than Joshua, who lived with Augustus.8 
Census*She and Joshua Curtis appeared on the census of 1885 at Fremont, Colorado, Alexander's family and an unknown S.B. or J.B. Curtis, age 22, b. NC, lived with them.9 
Death*Caroline Martha Craig died on 27 December 1892 at Fremont, Colorado, at age 72; buried at Greenwood Cemetery.4 

Family

Joshua Curtis b. 18 Jun 1818, d. 16 Jun 1885
Children

Citations

  1. [S1] Census of Population 1850.
  2. [S1149] Edward Peele Williams, "Ancestral File - McCurry and Curtis Families", Ancestral File.
  3. [S1649] Bureau of Vital Statistics State of Colorado, Colorado Death Certificates, Ephriam C. Curtis and James D. Curtis give her maiden name.
  4. [S1614] Fremont Colorado GenWeb Archives, Fremont County Colorado Cemeteries, Greenwood.
  5. [S1651] Marge Curtis Asay, "Descendants of James Delbert Curtis", Ancestral File.
  6. [S1] Census of Population 1860.
  7. [S1] Census of Population 1870.
  8. [S1] Census of Population 1880.
  9. [S1] Census of Population 1885 Colorado State Census.

Alexander G. Curtis1

M, b. August 1843, d. 21 November 1927
FatherJoshua Curtis2 b. 18 Jun 1818, d. 16 Jun 1885
MotherCaroline Martha Craig2 b. 12 May 1820, d. 27 Dec 1892
Last Edited5 Apr 2010
Birth*Alexander G. Curtis was born in August 1843 at McDowell, North Carolina; death certificate says about November 1844, but appears unreliable.1,3 
(Witness) CensusHe appeared on the census of 14 August 1850 McDowell, North Carolina, in the household of Joshua Curtis and Caroline Martha Craig; page 272, occupation farmer, renting, 2 children at home.2 
(Witness) CensusAlexander G. Curtis appeared on the census of 18 June 1860 Marion P.O., McDowell, North Carolina, in the household of Joshua Curtis and Caroline Martha Craig; page 175, occupation farmer, renting, 4 children at home.4 
Milit-Beg*Alexander G. Curtis began military service on 27 February 1862 at Marion, McDowell, North Carolina, as a Private, 6 Regiment North Carolina Infantry for the duration of the war; captured at Rappahannock Station 7 Nov 1863; sent to Point Lookout prison; exchanged 30 Oct 1864.5 
Milit-BegHe began military service on 27 February 1862 at Marion, McDowell, North Carolina, as a Private 6th Regiment North Carolina Infantry for "war." Noted as "absent, straggled on the march from Winchester to Culpepper Courthouse Oct 31, 1862;" captured at Rappahannock Station, 7 November 1863; imprisoned at Point Lookout, Maryland.5 
Milit-End*He ended military service on 30 October 1864 at Point Lookout, St. Marys, Maryland; exchanged on 30 October 1864; no further record; North Carolina pension application of 3 July 1922 rejected.5 
Marriage*He married Marien (Mamie) Jane Holler on 4 February 1867 at McDowell, North Carolina; John McCurry, bondsman; A.M. Finley, Clerk.6,7 
Census*Alexander G. Curtis appeared on the census of 25 July 1870 at Carson City P.O., Fremont, Colorado, page 244b, occupation farm laborer, single, living with M. Mill and Rebecca Craig, ages 37 and 32 respectively, both from North Carolina.8 
CensusHe appeared on the census of 4 June 1880 at Third Precinct, Fremont, Colorado, page 484A, occupation farmer, 4 children at home.6 
CensusHe and Marien (Mamie) Jane Holler appeared on the census of 1885 at Fremont, Colorado, lived with Joshua and Martha, 4 children at home.9 
CensusAlexander G. Curtis and Marien (Mamie) Jane Holler appeared on the census of 3 July 1900 at Fruitmere Precinct, Fremont, Colorado, ED 34, sheet 9A, occupation farmer, owned farm, married 33 years, 5 children, 5 living; daughter Mary C. Austin and her son Arthur, b. March 1890 lived with them.10 
Census*Alexander G. Curtis and Marien (Mamie) Jane Holler appeared on the census of 10 May 1910 at Boulder, Colorado, Colorado, ED 27, sheet 11A, occupation own income, married 44 years, 5 children, 5 living, 1 daughter at home.11 
(Witness) CensusAlexander G. Curtis appeared on the census of 21 January 1920 Semper, Jefferson, Colorado, in the household of Fred Wilson Fowler and Emma Belle Curtis; ED 93, sheet 39A, occupation farmer, owned home, no children, Belle's parents lived with them.12 
Death*Alexander G. Curtis died on 21 November 1927 at Broomfield, Adams, Colorado, at age 84; rejected pension North Carolina application of 3 July 1922; buried at ___?___ Springs Cemetery.13,3 

Family

Marien (Mamie) Jane Holler b. Sep 1850
Children

Citations

  1. [S1] Census of Population 1850, 1900.
  2. [S1] Census of Population 1850.
  3. [S1649] Bureau of Vital Statistics State of Colorado, Colorado Death Certificates.
  4. [S1] Census of Population 1860.
  5. [S1737] Footnote.com, Footnote.com, CSA Service Records.
  6. [S1] Census of Population 1880.
  7. [S830] North Carolina Works Progress Administration, North Carolina Marriage Bonds, 1741-1868.
  8. [S1] Census of Population 1870.
  9. [S1] Census of Population 1885 Colorado State Census.
  10. [S1] Census of Population 1900.
  11. [S1] Census of Population 1910.
  12. [S1] Census of Population 1920.
  13. [S1585] "North Carolina Civil War Pension Applications."

Ephriam C. Curtis1,2

M, b. 30 July 1847, d. 13 November 1922
FatherJoshua Curtis1 b. 18 Jun 1818, d. 16 Jun 1885
MotherCaroline Martha Craig1 b. 12 May 1820, d. 27 Dec 1892
Last Edited5 Apr 2010
Birth*Ephriam C. Curtis was born on 30 July 1847 at McDowell, North Carolina.1,3,2 
(Witness) CensusHe appeared on the census of 14 August 1850 McDowell, North Carolina, in the household of Joshua Curtis and Caroline Martha Craig; page 272, occupation farmer, renting, 2 children at home.1 
(Witness) CensusEphriam C. Curtis appeared on the census of 18 June 1860 Marion P.O., McDowell, North Carolina, in the household of Joshua Curtis and Caroline Martha Craig; page 175, occupation farmer, renting, 4 children at home.4 
Milit-Beg*Ephriam C. Curtis began military service on 30 April 1864 at Marion, McDowell, North Carolina, as a Corporal, 1st Battalion North Carolina Junior Reserves; present in February 1865, no record of discharge.5 
Census*He appeared on the census of 25 July 1870 at Carson City P.O., Fremont, Colorado, page 244b, occupation farm laborer, single, living with M. Mill and Rebecca Craig, ages 37 and 32 respectively, both from North Carolina.6 
CensusHe appeared on the census of 4 June 1880 at Third Precinct, Fremont, Colorado, page 484A, occupation farmer, single, Caroline lived with him.7 
Marriage*He married Mary E. (Mollie) Maffet on 11 June 1881 at Arapahoe, Colorado.8,9 
CensusEphriam C. Curtis appeared on the census of 18 June 1900 at Glendale Precinct, Fremont, Colorado, ED 34, sheet 5B, occupation farmer, owned farm, married 19 years, no children.8 
Census*He and Mary E. (Mollie) Maffet appeared on the census of 5 May 1910 at Glendale Precinct, Fremont, Colorado, ED 70, sheet 9B, occupation farmer and deputy sheriff, renting, no children; lived next to Robert M.10 
CensusEphriam C. Curtis and Mary E. (Mollie) Maffet appeared on the census of 12 January 1920 at Florence Precinct, Fremont, Colorado, ED 58, sheet 5A, occupation farmer, owned farm, no children.11 
ObitEphriam C.'s obituary was published in the Citizen-Democrat on 13 November 1922:
E.C. Curtis, a pioneer of Fremont County, died this morning at his home on West Third Street from bronchial pneumonia, from which he had been ill for some time. Mr. Curtis was born in McDowell County, N.C. in 1847 and came to Colorado in the early 70’s and settled on Beaver Creek where he was engaged in ranching and stock raising until about 1915, when he retired from active business. His wife died in June of this year. Mr. Curtis was well known among the old settlers of the county and was highly esteemed by all. The funeral services be announced later.12 
Death*He died on 13 November 1922 at 1335 West 3rd. Street, Florence, Fremont, Colorado, at age 75; Confederate Veteran and retired stock raiser; buried at Greenwood Cemetery in Canon City.3,2 
ObitEphriam C.'s obituary was published in the Citizen Democrat on 16 November 1922:
Ephriam C. Curtis, aged 75, and for fifty-two years one of the highly respected and substantial residents of Eastern Fremont County, was call by death, Monday, Nov. 12, at 10:30 o’clock a.m. following a two weeks illness with bronchial pneumonia. Death took place at the home of Mr. Curtis on West Third Street, where he and his good wife, who preceded him to the grave only a few months, lived for the past twelve years. Mr. and Mrs. Curtis were inseparable companions and since her death “Uncle Eph,” as he was familiarly known by his hundreds of friends, has been inconsolable, and when stricken with pneumonia, had little vitality with which to fight the malady.
Mr. Curtis located on Beaver Creek when he reached this section of the state and owned a farm in the vicinity of the Glendale post office. He disposed of the farm and the water rights to the Beaver Park Land and Water Company, when the project was started to water the Beaver Park section. Mr. and Mrs. Curtis resided on their Beaver Creek place for forty years and after its sale they came to Florence and bot the home at 1835 West Third, consisting of a residence and four acres of ground.
Deceased was born in McDowell County, N.C., July 30, 1847, and was a veteran of the Civil War, fighting on the side of the Confederacy. Mr. Curtis was a devoted member of Florence Lodge No. 611, B.P.O. Elks and when his health permitted was a regular attendant at the meetings. In point of age, he was the oldest Elk on the roster of the local lodge and won a prize at the state reunion in Canon City two years ago as being the oldest Elk in line of march. Mr. Curtis was loved and respected by his fellowmen; he was kind and charitable and so generous in his impulses that no one who applied to him for assistance was turned away empty handed.
He is survived by his brother, Alexander G. Curtis, of Broomfield, Colo., and his nephews, C.R. Curtis, of Denver and Fred Curtis, of Buena Vista, Colo. The funeral will be held Wednesday morning at 10 o’clock from the James Undertaking Parlors, under the direction of the Elks and Rev. James R. Burchfield of the Presbyterian Church. Interment will be made in Greenwood Cemetery at Canon City.12 

Family

Mary E. (Mollie) Maffet b. 12 May 1855, d. 17 Jun 1922

Citations

  1. [S1] Census of Population 1850.
  2. [S1649] Bureau of Vital Statistics State of Colorado, Colorado Death Certificates.
  3. [S1614] Fremont Colorado GenWeb Archives, Fremont County Colorado Cemeteries, Greenwood.
  4. [S1] Census of Population 1860.
  5. [S1737] Footnote.com, Footnote.com, CSA Service Records.
  6. [S1] Census of Population 1870.
  7. [S1] Census of Population 1880.
  8. [S1] Census of Population 1900.
  9. [S1613] Jordan Dodd, Colorado Marriages - Mesa, Arapahoe and Boulder Counties.
  10. [S1] Census of Population 1910.
  11. [S1] Census of Population 1920.
  12. [S1648] Canon City Record, Various.

Augustus Adolphus Curtis1,2

M, b. 8 August 1850, d. 27 August 1918
FatherJoshua Curtis1 b. 18 Jun 1818, d. 16 Jun 1885
MotherCaroline Martha Craig1 b. 12 May 1820, d. 27 Dec 1892
Last Edited24 Mar 2013
Birth*Augustus Adolphus Curtis was born on 8 August 1850 at McDowell, North Carolina.3,4,5 
(Witness) CensusHe appeared on the census of 18 June 1860 Marion P.O., McDowell, North Carolina, in the household of Joshua Curtis and Caroline Martha Craig; page 175, occupation farmer, renting, 4 children at home.1 
Marriage*Augustus Adolphus Curtis married Margaret A. Mashburn on 6 January 1875 at at the Mashburn Home, McDowell, North Carolina; by R.H. Moore, J.P.6,7 
Census*Augustus Adolphus Curtis appeared on the census of 1 June 1880 at Third Precinct, Fremont, Colorado, page 484A, occupation farmer, 3 children and Joshua at home.6 
CensusHe appeared on the census of 29 June 1900 at Precinct 39, Pueblo, Colorado, ED 111, sheet 12B, occupation farmer, owned farm, married 25 years, 6 children, 5 living.8 
Census*He and Margaret A. Mashburn appeared on the census of 16 April 1910 at Precinct 21, Pueblo, Colorado, ED 151, sheet 1B, occupation farmer, owned farm, married 36 year, 6 children, 5 living.9 
Death*Augustus Adolphus Curtis died on 27 August 1918 at Beulah, Pueblo, Colorado, at age 68; occupation farmer, buried at Beulah.10,4 
ObitAugustus Adolphus's obituary was published in the Chieftain on circa 29 August 1918:
A Tribute – by Ross W. Jay. Character is what one is. The actions, looks and words of a man enable us to read his true character. The unexpected death of A.A. Curtis last week removed from the Beulah community and the southern part of Colorado a citizen who possessed a personality reflecting long years of experience and a character builded upon the principle of right living.
Mr. Curtis came to this state in 1871. He arrived at Kit Carson, where the Santa Fe railroad terminated, and, accompanied by his two elder brothers, walked to Boone and later located in Canon City. Mr. Curtis was married to Margaret A. Mashburn, January 6th, 1875, at Old Fort, North Carolina, and with his bride and his father and mother, Josiah and Carolina Curtis, he established a home on Beaver Creek, near Canon City. His parents spent the remainder of their lives there. Mr. A.A. Curtis freighted supplied from Canon City to Leadville and Fairplay during the early days of the gold excitement.
In the year 1882, he moved his family to Beulah and located upon the site where the Curtis home stands today [occupied in 2008]. Mr. Curtis was considered a high grade stockman. Especially was he referred to because of his excellent judgment of horses. In those days only a winding trail crossed the prairie and thousands of long-horned Texas cattle bearing the R.R.R. brand, roamed the plains, forming the principal industry and among the far apart neighbors of the Beulah district were the families of John L. Boggs, J.P. Murry, F.M. Berry, Gust E. Krenzke and A.Q. Davis. At that time deer meat was obtained by Mr. Curtis by waiting near the soda springs where the deer came daily to drink.
Mr. Curtis was an exemplary family man, providing well and granting to them all within his power to add to their comfort and happiness. He had intense love for the cedars and the natural grandeur of that region of indescribable beauty, which characterizes the mountains and valleys in that particular section of the Rocky Mountains termed the “Greenhorn Range.” Mr. Curtis was a public spirited man and an inspiration in every improvement which has been promoted in Beulah district. He possessed a gentle love for little children, music and flowers. His plans tended toward the beautifying of practical things and he was always ready to co-operate with those who were aiming toward the betterment of community conditions. He responded generously to those who were in distress and the state and community have suffered a great loss in his passing.
The funeral services were held in the home he loved. The house sits in the midst of his ripening harvest fields. Many pioneers were present as well as a large number of friends who respected and valued his friendship. Rev. Mr. Millsap, the M.E. Minister at Beulah, conducted the services. [Text omitted]
Augustus Adolphus Curtis was born August 8, 1850, at Marion, North Carolina, and died August 27, 1918, at Beulah, Colorado. He was the father of six children—William Frank Curtis, who died in 1899; Sam T. Curtis, of Olney Springs, Colo; Jennie A. (Mrs. F.D. Keeney), of Hughson, California; Elizabeth G. (Mrs. R.N. Fine) of Monte Vista, Colorado; Lela C. (Mrs. J.T. Murray) of Beulah, Colorado; Myrtie E. (Mrs. Q.C. Walker) of Beulah, Colorado. Mr. Curtis has seven grandchildren and two brothers, Alexander Curtis, of Denver, and Ephriam Curtis, of Florence, Colorado.

Pueblo Chieftain, 28 August 1918:
Gus Curtis Pioneer of Beulah is Dead.
[most text omitted] He leaves four daughters, Mrs. F. Keeney, of Hughson, Cal; Mrs. R.N. Fine of Monte Vista, Colorado; Mrs. J.T. Murray and Mrs. A.C. Walker of Beulah, one son, Sam, of Olney Springs, Colorado; two brothers, A.G. Curtis of Broomfiled Colorado, and E.C. Curtis, of Florecne, Colorado. Interment at Beulah Cemetery.4 

Family

Margaret A. Mashburn b. 28 Jul 1855, d. 24 Jul 1934
Children

Citations

  1. [S1] Census of Population 1860.
  2. [S1640] Kathleen Curtis Uhland, "Colorado Curtis Family Research", Ancestral File.
  3. [S1] Census of Population 1860, 1900.
  4. [S1647] Pueblo Chieftain, Various.
  5. [S1649] Bureau of Vital Statistics State of Colorado, Colorado Death Certificates.
  6. [S1] Census of Population 1880.
  7. [S1229] Edward P. Williams, McDowell County Marriages.
  8. [S1] Census of Population 1900.
  9. [S1] Census of Population 1910.
  10. [S1] Census of Population 1920.

James Delbert (J.D.) Curtis1

M, b. 23 March 1853, d. 23 June 1909
FatherJoshua Curtis2 b. 18 Jun 1818, d. 16 Jun 1885
MotherCaroline Martha Craig2 b. 12 May 1820, d. 27 Dec 1892
Last Edited4 Sep 2008
Birth*James Delbert (J.D.) Curtis was born on 23 March 1853 at McDowell, North Carolina; death certificate says 1855, but 1853 is more consistent with prior records.2,3,4 
(Witness) CensusHe appeared on the census of 18 June 1860 Marion P.O., McDowell, North Carolina, in the household of Joshua Curtis and Caroline Martha Craig; page 175, occupation farmer, renting, 4 children at home.2 
(Witness) CensusJames Delbert (J.D.) Curtis appeared on the census of 16 August 1870 Old Fort P.O., Old Fort Township, McDowell, North Carolina, in the household of Joshua Curtis and Caroline Martha Craig; page 659, occupation farmer, renting, 1 son at home.5 
(Witness) CensusJames Delbert (J.D.) Curtis appeared on the census of 1885 Fremont, Colorado, in the household of Joshua Curtis and Caroline Martha Craig; Alexander's family and an unknown S.B. or J.B. Curtis, age 22, b. NC, lived with them.6 
Marriage*James Delbert (J.D.) Curtis married Helen Mae Reed on 16 April 1892 at Colorado.7,4 
NoteB* The following news item was reported in the Canon City Record of 6 Jul 1899: J .D. Curtis was in the city from Beaver Creek Saturday. Mr. Curtis is in the cattle and fruit growing business out on Beaver. He reports the cattle doing well and the prospects for fruit good. Beaver Creek country has had a peculiar experience with blight. Two years ago the blight struck the orchards along Beaver Creek badly and it seemed the fruit men would lose half of more of their trees. Last year it was bad also. Mr. Curtis tells a Record man that this year he notices no evil effects of blight at all and that many trees he thought as good as dead last year have come out green this season and show every sign of living and thriving. That is certainly a very peculiar phenomenon and it is being noted in other parts of the country.8 
Census*James Delbert (J.D.) Curtis and Helen Mae Reed appeared on the census of 21 June 1900 at Glendale Precinct, Fremont, Colorado, ED 34, sheet 6B, occupation farmer, owned farm, married 8 years, 2 children, 2 living; he was the census enumerator.7 
Death*James Delbert (J.D.) Curtis died on 23 June 1909 at Canon City, Fremont, Colorado, at age 56; from pneumonia and blood poisoning due to a broken hip; occupation rancher; buried at Canon City.9,3 
ObitJames Delbert (J.D.)'s obituary was published in the Eulogy on 25 June 1909:
On June 23, 1909, at Canon City, Colorado, our Brother James Delbert Curtis, was called to the Great Beyond [Most of text omitted.] Brother Curtis’ ancestry was English, Scotch, and Irish. His first ancestors in America settled in early colonial days in Virginia. They lived there for some time, and migrated to North Carolina, and as early as 1780, were pioneer settlers in the County of Burke, now the County of McDowell in that State. In that County and Neighborhood they continued to live until they came to Colorado. Delbert’s father was Joshua Curtis, and his mother’s maiden name was Martha C. Craig. They had four children, all sons, Alexander C., Ephraim C., Augustus A., and James Delbert. The sons all followed their parents to Colorado, and they have lived in this county nearly forty years, except Alexander recently moved to Denver. James Delbert Curtis was born on his father’s farm near Marion, North Carolina, on March 23, 1853. He attended the common school as and also an academy in his native state. After leaving school, he was employed in a mercantile establishment, where he remained until 1876, when he came to this county, and engaged in farming and stock raising on Beaver Creek, which business he followed until his death.
Brother Curtis was large, robust, strong, and manly. Two very notable features of his character were loyalty and geniality. He was loyal to everything he belonged to or was connected with. He loved his friend and his country. And he fairly sparkled with geniality. We have scarcely met a man who seemed to take greater pleasure in meeting and mingling with his friends and particularly the members of our Order. [Most of text omitted.]
Brother Curtis intermarried with Miss Mae Reid of Lamont, Iowa. They had two children, Clifton R., and Hazel F; these and his wife survive him. Fortunately he left an estate ample enough it is hoped to make his family comfortable during their lives, or at least until the children are grown and are able to provide for themselves. And to this little family, Florence Lodge No. 611, extends its profoundest condolence and sympathy; and this family can be sure that its welfare will ever be a matter of fraternal solicitude by that Lodge. (Charles D. Bradley, F.A. Moore, W.W. Cafky.)4 

Family

Helen Mae Reed b. 16 Apr 1870, d. Oct 1940
Children

Citations

  1. [S1] Census of Population 1860, 1870.
  2. [S1] Census of Population 1860.
  3. [S1649] Bureau of Vital Statistics State of Colorado, Colorado Death Certificates.
  4. [S1651] Marge Curtis Asay, "Descendants of James Delbert Curtis", Ancestral File.
  5. [S1] Census of Population 1870.
  6. [S1] Census of Population 1885 Colorado State Census.
  7. [S1] Census of Population 1900.
  8. [S1648] Canon City Record, Various.
  9. [S1] Census of Population 1910.

Naomi (Naomey) Gillespie1,2

F, b. 1815, d. circa 1855
Last Edited20 Sep 2008
Birth*Naomi (Naomey) Gillespie was born in 1815 at North Carolina.1,2 
Married Name As of 5 January 1832,her married name was Curtis.1,2,3 
Marriage*She married John Nelson Curtis Sr., son of William Curtis and Mary (Polly) Crowder, on 5 January 1832.1,2,3 
CensusNaomi (Naomey) Gillespie and John Nelson Curtis Sr. appeared on the census of 13 August 1850 at McDowell, North Carolina, page 271, occupation farmer, real estate valued at $2,000, 2 children and his brother William at home.1 
Death*Naomi (Naomey) Gillespie died circa 1855 at Benton, Arkansas; The will of her father, David Gillespie, dated 13 February 1859 in McDowell County, names the heirs of Naomi Curtis. John was married to Caroline not later than April 1856. 

Family

John Nelson Curtis Sr. b. 1811, d. 1 Jul 1878
Children

Citations

  1. [S1] Census of Population 1850.
  2. [S830] North Carolina Works Progress Administration, North Carolina Marriage Bonds, 1741-1868, Bond 000005375.
  3. [S1149] Edward Peele Williams, "Ancestral File - McCurry and Curtis Families", Ancestral File.
  4. [S1] Census of Population 1870.
  5. [S1175] In Curtis Family File at Morganton, NC Library Unknown, "John Nelson Curtis Family Group Sheet."

George W. Curtis1

M, b. 1833
FatherJohn Nelson Curtis Sr.1 b. 1811, d. 1 Jul 1878
MotherNaomi (Naomey) Gillespie1 b. 1815, d. c 1855
Last Edited20 Sep 2008
Birth*George W. Curtis was born in 1833 at Burke, North Carolina.1 
(Witness) CensusHe appeared on the census of 13 August 1850 McDowell, North Carolina, in the household of John Nelson Curtis Sr. and Naomi (Naomey) Gillespie; page 271, occupation farmer, real estate valued at $2,000, 2 children and his brother William at home.1 
Marriage*George W. Curtis married Virginia a. (?) circa 1855.2 
Land Entry*George W. Curtis and Don Carlos Curtis entered land on 1 February 1860 at Benton, Arkansas, 80 acres, located in Section 10, township 20-N.3 
Milit-Beg*George W. Curtis began military service circa 1862 at Arkansas as a private, Company H, 15th Militia Infantry Regiment Arkansas; no further information; unknown if this is the same George Curtis.4 

Family

Virginia a. (?) b. c 1835, d. c 1866
Child

Citations

  1. [S1] Census of Population 1850.
  2. [S1667] Benton County Recorder, Benton County, Arkansas Deed Records, Book E, page 191.
  3. [S1653] U.S. Bureau of Land Management, General Land Office Records.
  4. [S1213] Ancestry.com, "Ancestry.com", Ancestral File, Civil War Service Records.
  5. [S1667] Benton County Recorder, Benton County, Arkansas Deed Records.

Don Carlos Curtis1,2,3

M, b. 1839
FatherJohn Nelson Curtis Sr.1 b. 1811, d. 1 Jul 1878
MotherNaomi (Naomey) Gillespie1 b. 1815, d. c 1855
Last Edited10 Sep 2008
Birth*Don Carlos Curtis was born in 1839 at Burke, North Carolina.1 
(Witness) CensusHe appeared on the census of 13 August 1850 McDowell, North Carolina, in the household of John Nelson Curtis Sr. and Naomi (Naomey) Gillespie; page 271, occupation farmer, real estate valued at $2,000, 2 children and his brother William at home.1 
Land Entry*Don Carlos Curtis and George W. Curtis entered land on 1 February 1860 at Benton, Arkansas, 80 acres, located in Section 10, township 20-N.3 

Citations

  1. [S1] Census of Population 1850.
  2. [S1149] Edward Peele Williams, "Ancestral File - McCurry and Curtis Families", Ancestral File.
  3. [S1653] U.S. Bureau of Land Management, General Land Office Records.

William Curtis Jr.1,2,3,4

M, b. 1823
FatherWilliam Curtis1,2,3 b. c 1787, d. 14 Dec 1852
MotherMary (Polly) Crowder1,2,3 b. May 1792, d. bt 1861 - 1870
Last Edited19 Oct 2008
Birth*William Curtis Jr. was born in 1823 at Burke, North Carolina.1,2,3 
Tax List*He appeared on the personal property tax list of 1847 at Marion District, McDowell, North Carolina; no acreage, 1 poll.4 
(Witness) CensusHe appeared on the census of 13 August 1850 McDowell, North Carolina, in the household of John Nelson Curtis Sr. and Naomi (Naomey) Gillespie; page 271, occupation farmer, real estate valued at $2,000, 2 children and his brother William at home.1 
Marriage*William Curtis Jr. married Eliza Belle (?) circa 1853 at Arkansas.5 
Land Entry*William Curtis Jr. entered land on 1 July 1859 at Section 1, Twp. 19 North, Range 33 West, Benton, Arkansas, 40 acres.6 
Census*He and Eliza Belle (?) appeared on the census of 21 June 1860 at Spavanau P.O., Wallace Twp., Benton, Arkansas, page 277, occupation farmer, real estate valued at $1,500, 3 children at home.5 
NoteB* In the McCurry litigation regarding his father's estate, William was listed as a defendant, so he apparently was living.7 
NoteB According to Edward Peele Williams, William died in California; no other information.3 

Family

Eliza Belle (?) b. 1838
Children

Citations

  1. [S1] Census of Population 1850.
  2. [S1153] Probate File of William Curtis unknown file number.
  3. [S1149] Edward Peele Williams, "Ancestral File - McCurry and Curtis Families", Ancestral File.
  4. [S1698] McDowell County Superior Court, McDowell County, North Carolina Tax Lists.
  5. [S1] Census of Population 1860.
  6. [S1176] Bureau of Land Management, Federal Land Patents.
  7. [S1234] McDowell County Estate Records unknown file number.

Aurrelia Bradford1,2

F, b. 14 December 1829, d. 26 June 1910
Last Edited27 Jan 2013
Birth*Aurrelia Bradford was born on 14 December 1829 at Indiana; daughter of David Brodefer and Anna Smith; death certificate says she was born in Missouri, but census reports were Indiana.3,2 
Married Name As of circa 1866,her married name was Curtis.3 
Marriage*She married John Nelson Curtis Sr., son of William Curtis and Mary (Polly) Crowder, circa 1866 at Arkansas; no marriage record; a deed dated 27 July 1866 refers to J.N. Curtis and his wife Aurelia.3,4 
CensusAurrelia Bradford and John Nelson Curtis Sr. appeared on the census of 13 June 1870 at Bentonville P.O., Osage Twp., Benton, Arkansas, page 248, occupation assessor, real estate valued at $2,000, personal at $1,000; 3 children at home.3 
Census*Aurrelia Bradford appeared on the census of 2 June 1880 at Bentonville, Benton, Arkansas, page 456A, occupation home keeper, widowed, 1 child at home.5 
CensusShe appeared on the census of 9 July 1900 at Bentonville, Benton, Arkansas, ED 19, sheet 16A, no occupation, widowed, owned home, 1 child, 1 living, a Davis family lived with her.6 
(Witness) CensusShe appeared on the census of 19 April 1910 Kansas City, Jackson, Missouri, in the household of Charles Henry Cotsworth and Lilly Clayton Curtis; ED 38, sheet 4B, occupation baker-dining car, renting, married 22 years, 8 children, 6 living.7 
Death*Aurrelia Bradford died on 26 June 1910 at Kansas City, Jackson, Missouri, at age 80; buried in Bentonville.2 
ObitAurrelia's obituary was published in the Democrat on 30 June 1910:
Mrs. Curtis, stepmother of Mrs. T.T. Blake and P.P. Curtis, died in Kansas City at the home of her son-in-law, Chas. H. Cotsworth, last Sunday and the remains brought here yesterday and interred in the city cemetery. The deceased was for many years a resident of this city and was one of the pioneer settlers of this county. We have not learned the cause of her death, but as she was advance in years, we suppose she had reached the end of her natural life and peacefully fell asleep.8 

Family

John Nelson Curtis Sr. b. 1811, d. 1 Jul 1878
Child

Citations

  1. [S1] Census of Population 1870, 1880.
  2. [S577] Missouri State Archives, Missouri Birth and Death Records Before 1910, death certificate.
  3. [S1] Census of Population 1870.
  4. [S1667] Benton County Recorder, Benton County, Arkansas Deed Records, Book F, pages 613-614.
  5. [S1] Census of Population 1880.
  6. [S1] Census of Population 1900.
  7. [S1] Census of Population 1910.
  8. [S1158] Barbara P. Easley, Benton County Obituaries.

Bertha Jane Curtis1,2

F, b. 29 September 1853, d. 6 May 1925
FatherJohn Nelson Curtis Sr.1 b. 1811, d. 1 Jul 1878
MotherNaomi (Naomey) Gillespie1 b. 1815, d. c 1855
Last Edited28 Jan 2013
Birth*Bertha Jane Curtis was born on 29 September 1853 at Arkansas.1,2 
(Witness) CensusShe appeared on the census of 5 June 1860 Bentonville P.O., Osage Twp., Benton, Arkansas, in the household of John Nelson Curtis Sr. and Caroline Catherine Phillips; page 233b, occupation grocery keeper; real estate valued at $3,000, personal at $2,000, 3 children and a James Curtis, age 19, born NC.3 
(Witness) CensusBertha Jane Curtis appeared on the census of 13 June 1870 Bentonville P.O., Osage Twp., Benton, Arkansas, in the household of John Nelson Curtis Sr. and Aurrelia Bradford; page 248, occupation assessor, real estate valued at $2,000, personal at $1,000; 3 children at home.1 
Marriage*Bertha Jane Curtis married Taylor Thomas Blake on 14 February 1873 at Benton, Arkansas.4,5 
Married Name As of 6 November 1873,her married name was Blake.4,5 
(Witness) CensusBertha Jane Curtis appeared on the census of 7 July 1900 Bentonville, Benton, Arkansas, in the household of Taylor Thomas Blake; ED 19, sheet 14B, occupation hotel keeper, married 26 years, 8 children, 8 living.6 
(Witness) ObitBertha Jane Curtis witnessed the Obit of Taylor Thomas Blake on 19 March 1920 at Benton County Record, Bentonville, Benton, Arkansas, BLAKE, Taylor T. - T.T. Blake, one of Benton county's best known citizens and long a resident of Bentonville, died suddenly at his home in this city Thursday morning at 10 a.m. Mr. Blake, who has had heart trouble for the past two years, has been feeling quite well this spring until Sunday when he was again stricken. He was reported better Wednesday but suffered another attack Thursday and passed away suddenly. Mr. Blake came here from Texas in 1868 and was married here in Bentonville to Miss Bertha Curtis in 1873. He succeeded his father in the Southern hotel and continued to conduct it for about thirty-five years. The fame of the Southern hotel and the Blake cooking were known far and near. When the Massey hotel was built Mr. Blake was the first landlord. He took considerable interest in politics and after serving as deputy sheriff for many years was elected sheriff and served four years. Besides a wife, eight children survive him: J.T. Blake and Mrs. W.I. James of Tulsa; F.C. Blake of Okmulgee; J.L. Blake of Miami; Mrs. Arch Wright and Misses Flora and Bob Blake of Bentonville only 7 named. Funeral services have not yet been arranged for at this time of going to press. Benton County Record 3/19/1920
Mrs. Theda Blake of Memphis, who had been visiting here with her sister, Mrs. Amelia Blake, has returned home. The sisters married c[ousins and the husband of Mrs. Theda Blake was a brother of the late Taylor Blake of Bentonvil[le. She had intended returning early last week but remained over for the funeral of Mr. Blake. [Rogers Democrat 3/25/20]
It was with a great deal of regret and sorrow that the word spread over Benton county last Thursday of the death of Taylor A.[?] Blake at his home at Bentonville at the age of 70 years. Mr. Blake had been a resident of Benton county for 52 years, coming here with his father in 1868 from Texas, altho he was a native of Missouri and the family was originally from Tennessee. To say that Taylor Blake was one of the best known men in Benton county would be putting it very mildly. The many years spent in the hotel business in Bentonville; his eight years service as deputy sheriff and his four years as sheriff, gave him a speaking acquaintance with almost every man in the county who had business in the county seat or with the courts. He was one of the very first men that the Democrat editor met at Bentonville at his first term of court, 24 years ago this spring, and the friendship had extended over nearly a quarter of a century without a break. The Democrat never had a more staunch or a truer friend, and it was worth the trip to the county seat just for a half hour with Taylor, who knew all the political gossip of the county and was a regular encyclopedia of general information. Many of our county and court news items came thru his active agency. Mr. Blake is survived by his wife and seven children: J.T. Blake and Mrs. W.D. James of Tulsa, Okla; Finney Blake of Okmulgee, Okla; Carlos Blake, Miami, Okla; Mrs. Arch Wright, Fayetteville; Misses Flora and Bob Blake of Bentonville. The fifth daughter, Mrs. Oma Wood, died last fall. [Rogers Democrat 3/25/20]4 
Death*Bertha Jane Curtis died on 6 May 1925 at Bentonville, Benton, Arkansas, at age 71; buried at the Bentonville Cemetery.2,7 
NoteB* My great grandfather, Carl K Curtis, always said our family was "kissin' cousins" with Will Rogers. In the genealogical research of the Curtis family, I finally found the connection from a book written about Will Rogers and his wife, Betty Blake. John Nelson Curtis, father of Carl K Curtis was named after his uncle, John "Nelson" Curtis, also of Bentonville, Arkansas. This Uncle Nelson's daughter was Bertha Curtis who married Thomas T. Blake. Thomas T. Blake's grandfather, Thomas Kincade Blake and Betty Blake Rogers' grandfather, Larkin Hornsby Blake were brothers. Here is an excerpt from that book, Chapter Eighteen, "People of Interest": "On their first visit to Bentonville, to see Betty's relatives, they stopped at the home of T. T. Blake. Here, Will said to Mrs. Blake, "I am so glad to meet you Antie, for I have heard so much about you." "Well, I have heard a lot about you too," she replied. "But I think that you are the homeliest man I ever saw." At this Will just laughed and said, "Antie, you are so honest." "Antie" is Bertha Blake.8 

Family

Taylor Thomas Blake b. Oct 1849, d. 19 Mar 1920

Citations

  1. [S1] Census of Population 1870.
  2. [S1175] In Curtis Family File at Morganton, NC Library Unknown, "John Nelson Curtis Family Group Sheet."
  3. [S1] Census of Population 1860.
  4. [S1158] Barbara P. Easley, Benton County Obituaries, Volume VI, page 117.
  5. [S1666] Benton County Clerk, Benton County, Arkansas Marriage Records.
  6. [S1] Census of Population 1900.
  7. [S1285] Northwest Arkansas Genealogical Society, Benton County Cemeteries, Bentonville Cemetery.
  8. [S2170] Luanne Hale, "Podpechan Hale Family", Ancestral File.

Amanda Curtis1

F, b. 1864
FatherJohn Nelson Curtis Sr.1 b. 1811, d. 1 Jul 1878
MotherCaroline Catherine Phillips1 b. 1830, d. c 1865
Last Edited19 Sep 2008
Birth*Amanda Curtis was born in 1864 at Benton, Arkansas.1 
(Witness) CensusShe appeared on the census of 13 June 1870 Bentonville P.O., Osage Twp., Benton, Arkansas, in the household of John Nelson Curtis Sr. and Aurrelia Bradford; page 248, occupation assessor, real estate valued at $2,000, personal at $1,000; 3 children at home.1 

Citations

  1. [S1] Census of Population 1870.

Lilly Clayton Curtis1,2,3

F, b. 15 June 1868, d. 17 July 1954
FatherJohn Nelson Curtis Sr.1 b. 1811, d. 1 Jul 1878
MotherAurrelia Bradford1 b. 14 Dec 1829, d. 26 Jun 1910
Last Edited27 Jan 2013
Birth*Lilly Clayton Curtis was born on 15 June 1868 at Bentonville, Benton, Arkansas; Lilie reduced her age by 4-6 years after 1900; death certificate says 15 June 1874.4,3 
(Witness) CensusShe appeared on the census of 13 June 1870 Bentonville P.O., Osage Twp., Benton, Arkansas, in the household of John Nelson Curtis Sr. and Aurrelia Bradford; page 248, occupation assessor, real estate valued at $2,000, personal at $1,000; 3 children at home.1 
(Witness) CensusLilly Clayton Curtis appeared on the census of 2 June 1880 Bentonville, Benton, Arkansas, in the household of Aurrelia Bradford; page 456A, occupation home keeper, widowed, 1 child at home.5 
Married Name As of 8 November 1886,her married name was Lillie Clayton Cotsworth.2 
Marriage*Lilly Clayton Curtis married Charles Henry Cotsworth on 8 November 1886 at Arkansas.2 
CensusLilly Clayton Curtis and Charles Henry Cotsworth appeared on the census of 7 July 1900 at Bentonville, Benton, Arkansas, ED 19, sheet 14B, occupation baker, renting, married 13 years, 8 children, 7 living.6 
Census*Lilly Clayton Curtis and Charles Henry Cotsworth appeared on the census of 19 April 1910 at Kansas City, Jackson, Missouri, ED 38, sheet 4B, occupation baker-dining car, renting, married 22 years, 8 children, 6 living.7 
CensusLilly Clayton Curtis and Charles Henry Cotsworth appeared on the census of 12 January 1920 at Kansas City, Jackson, Missouri, ED 254, sheet 7A, occupation baker-bakery, renting, 5 children, plus Anna's family.8 
CensusLilly Clayton Curtis and Charles Henry Cotsworth appeared on the census of 8 April 1930 at Kansas City, Jackson, Missouri, ED 137, sheet 9A, occupation watchman-transfer company, renting-$40 month, 3 children at home; John and Virgil were truck drivers.9 
Death*Lilly Clayton Curtis died on 17 July 1954 at Kansas City, Jackson, Missouri, at age 86; buried at Green Lawn Cemetery.3 

Family

Charles Henry Cotsworth b. 17 Dec 1857, d. 12 Nov 1949
Children

Citations

  1. [S1] Census of Population 1870.
  2. [S1175] In Curtis Family File at Morganton, NC Library Unknown, "John Nelson Curtis Family Group Sheet."
  3. [S577] Missouri State Archives, Missouri Birth and Death Records Before 1910, death certificate.
  4. [S1] Census of Population 1870, 1900.
  5. [S1] Census of Population 1880.
  6. [S1] Census of Population 1900.
  7. [S1] Census of Population 1910.
  8. [S1] Census of Population 1920.
  9. [S1] Census of Population 1930.

Mary Elizabeth (Polly) Stroud1,2,3,4

F, b. 1803
FatherPeter Stroud Jr.5 b. bt 1765 - 1770, d. b 1852
MotherMargaret Curtis1 b. 1768
Last Edited19 Oct 2008
Birth*Mary Elizabeth (Polly) Stroud was born in 1803 at North Carolina.1,2,3 
Married Name As of 4 December 1823,her married name was Curtis.1,2,3 
Marriage*She married Joshua Curtis Jr., son of Joshua Curtis and Mary Curtis, on 4 December 1823 at Burke, North Carolina; Nelson Bird, bondsman; Jno Burgin, witness.1,2,3 
CensusMary Elizabeth (Polly) Stroud and Joshua Curtis Jr. appeared on the census of 1830 at Burke, North Carolina, page 191, 2 males and 1 female under 5, 1 female 5-9, 1 male 30-39, 1 female 20-29.6 
CensusMary Elizabeth (Polly) Stroud and Joshua Curtis Jr. appeared on the census of 1840 at Burke, North Carolina, page 330, 1 male and 1 female under 5, 3 males and 1 female 5-9, 1 female 10-14, 1 female 15-19, 1 male 40-49 and 1 female 30-39, 1 female 70-79; based on the known descendants, it appears they had other children besides their own living with them.7 
CensusMary Elizabeth (Polly) Stroud and Joshua Curtis Jr. appeared on the census of 13 August 1850 at McDowell, North Carolina, page 270b, occupation farmer, real estate valued at $600, 5 children and Margaret Stroud at home.1 
CensusMary Elizabeth (Polly) Stroud and Joshua Curtis Jr. appeared on the census of 30 June 1860 at Marion P.O., McDowell, North Carolina, page 199, occupation farmer, real estate valued at $500, 3 children at home.8 
CensusMary Elizabeth (Polly) Stroud and Joshua Curtis Jr. appeared on the census of 11 July 1870 at Sugar Hill P.O., Sugar Hill Twp., McDowell, North Carolina, page 675, occupation farmer, real estate valued at $330, 1 son and Martha, age 26, and Orlander age 6/12, at home.9 
Census*Mary Elizabeth (Polly) Stroud appeared on the census of 4 June 1880 at Marion Twp., McDowell, North Carolina, page 365A, occupation none, living with Martin and family.10 

Family

Joshua Curtis Jr. b. 1799, d. 15 Mar 1874
Children

Citations

  1. [S1] Census of Population 1850.
  2. [S1148] Helen Nuffer, "Ancestral File of Helen Nuffer", Ancestral File.
  3. [S830] North Carolina Works Progress Administration, North Carolina Marriage Bonds, 1741-1868, Bond 000005376.
  4. [S1605] Bureau of Vital Statistics and North Carolina State Archives North Carolina State Board of Health, North Carolina Death Certificates, Cassie Curtis Mitchell Bowman.
  5. [S1232] McDowell County Deeds: Book 3, page 37, Register of Deeds.
  6. [S1] Census of Population 1830.
  7. [S1] Census of Population 1840.
  8. [S1] Census of Population 1860.
  9. [S1] Census of Population 1870.
  10. [S1] Census of Population 1880.
  11. [S1155] Kenneth Jackson, "Jackson-Ashcraft Families", Ancestral File.
  12. [S1605] Bureau of Vital Statistics and North Carolina State Archives North Carolina State Board of Health, North Carolina Death Certificates.

Merrit B. Curtis1

M, b. 1830, d. 20 October 1862
FatherJoshua Curtis Jr.2 b. 1799, d. 15 Mar 1874
MotherMary Elizabeth (Polly) Stroud2 b. 1803
Last Edited12 Mar 2008
Birth*Merrit B. Curtis was born in 1830 at Burke, North Carolina.2,3 
(Witness) CensusHe appeared on the census of 13 August 1850 McDowell, North Carolina, in the household of Joshua Curtis Jr. and Mary Elizabeth (Polly) Stroud; page 270b, occupation farmer, real estate valued at $600, 5 children and Margaret Stroud at home.2 
Marriage*Merrit B. Curtis married Susannah (Susan) M. Patton circa 1856 at North Carolina; no marriage record.4 
Land Entry*Merrit B. Curtis entered land on 9 February 1860 at McDowell, North Carolina, 100 acres on the headquarters of Nick's Creek, joining the land of Wm. H. Mashburn. Entry No. 1644.5 
Census*He appeared on the census of 7 June 1860 at Marion P.O., McDowell, North Carolina, page 161b, occupation farmer, real estate valued at $500, personal $2,500, 2 children and Elizabeth Herron, age 13, at home.4 
Land EntryHe entered land on 17 January 1862 at McDowell, North Carolina, 100 acres on the waters of Muddy Creek on Nick's Creek joining the land of Joshua Curtis and Jethro Morgan. Entry No. 1810.5 
Milit-Beg*He began military service on 14 July 1862 at McDowell, North Carolina, as a Private, Company F, 58th Infantry Regiment North Carolina, age 33, occupation farmer.3 
Death*He died on 20 October 1862 at Cumberland Gap, Tennessee; of typhoid fever; Susannah was appointed adminstrix of his estate, but the estate file does not name his heirs.3,6,7 

Family

Susannah (Susan) M. Patton b. 11 Jun 1820, d. 31 May 1911
Children

Citations

  1. [S1] Census of Population 1850, 1860.
  2. [S1] Census of Population 1850.
  3. [S1171] Historical Data Systems, American Civil War Soldiers Records.
  4. [S1] Census of Population 1860.
  5. [S1197] Mr. & Mrs. Judson O. Crow, McDowell County Land Entries.
  6. [S1234] McDowell County Estate Records unknown file number.
  7. [S1585] "North Carolina Civil War Pension Applications."
  8. [S1] Census of Population 1870.

Cassandra Curtis1

F, b. 1843
FatherJames H. Curtis1 b. 15 Jun 1812, d. 20 Mar 1883
MotherMary Elizabeth (Eliza) McGalliard1 b. 8 Jun 1813, d. Oct 1881
Last Edited23 Jun 2008
Birth*Cassandra Curtis was born in 1843 at Burke, North Carolina.1 
(Witness) CensusShe appeared on the census of 28 September 1850 Burke, North Carolina, in the household of James H. Curtis and Mary Elizabeth (Eliza) McGalliard; page 395b, occupation farmer, renting, 6 children at home, also Samuel Justice, age 31, and James McGalliard, age 65, a stiller, b. South Carolina.1 
Married Name As of 30 December 1859,her married name was Mitchell.2 
Married Name As of 30 December 1859,her married name was Mitchell.3 
Marriage*Cassandra Curtis married Jacob Mitchell on 30 December 1859 at Burke, North Carolina.2 
Marriage*Cassandra Curtis married Jacob Mitchell on 30 December 1859 at Burke, North Carolina; S.E. Poteet, bondsman; J. B. Kincaid, witness.3 
Census*Cassandra Curtis and Jacob Mitchell appeared on the census of 4 August 1870 at Morganton P.O., Upper South Fork Twp., Burke, North Carolina, page 424, farm laborer, renting, 4 children at home.4 
CensusCassandra Curtis and Jacob Mitchell appeared on the census of 14 June 1880 at Morganton Twp., Burke, North Carolina, page 258C, occupation farmer, 6 children at home.5 

Family 1

Jacob Mitchell b. c 1840

Family 2

Jacob Mitchell b. Oct 1835
Children

Citations

  1. [S1] Census of Population 1850.
  2. [S830] North Carolina Works Progress Administration, North Carolina Marriage Bonds, 1741-1868, Bond 6472.
  3. [S830] North Carolina Works Progress Administration, North Carolina Marriage Bonds, 1741-1868.
  4. [S1] Census of Population 1870.
  5. [S1] Census of Population 1880.
  6. [S1] Census of Population 1900.

Martin Isaac Curtis1,2,3,4,5,6

M, b. 18 January 1841, d. 7 September 1916
FatherJoshua Curtis Jr.1 b. 1799, d. 15 Mar 1874
MotherMary Elizabeth (Polly) Stroud1 b. 1803
Last Edited22 Jun 2008
Birth*Martin Isaac Curtis was born on 18 January 1841 at McDowell, North Carolina.1,7 
(Witness) CensusHe appeared on the census of 13 August 1850 McDowell, North Carolina, in the household of Joshua Curtis Jr. and Mary Elizabeth (Polly) Stroud; page 270b, occupation farmer, real estate valued at $600, 5 children and Margaret Stroud at home.1 
(Witness) CensusMartin Isaac Curtis appeared on the census of 30 June 1860 Marion P.O., McDowell, North Carolina, in the household of Joshua Curtis Jr. and Mary Elizabeth (Polly) Stroud; page 199, occupation farmer, real estate valued at $500, 3 children at home.8 
Milit-Beg*Martin Isaac Curtis began military service on 10 August 1861 at Marion, McDowell, North Carolina, as a Private, Company B, 22nd Infantry Regiment North Carolina, for 1 year, age 21.9 
Milit-End*He ended military service in April 1865 at Knoxville, Tennessee; wounded in battle at Seven Pines, captured at Funkstown 12 July 1863, transferred to Point Lookout, Maryland, exchanged 3 May 1864; deserted at Petersburg, Virginia 16 February 1865, sent north, took the oath of allegiance at Louisville, Kentucky 10 April 1865 and was discharged.9 
Description*He was described as 6' 0" tall, fair complextion, light hair, dark eyes on 10 April 1865 at Louisville, Jefferson, Kentucky.9 
Marriage*He married Martha M. (Mattie) Jimison on 14 January 1869 at Henderson, North Carolina.10,5 
(Witness) CensusMartin Isaac Curtis appeared on the census of 11 July 1870 Sugar Hill P.O., Sugar Hill Twp., McDowell, North Carolina, in the household of Joshua Curtis Jr. and Mary Elizabeth (Polly) Stroud; page 675, occupation farmer, real estate valued at $330, 1 son and Martha, age 26, and Orlander age 6/12, at home.11 
(Witness) ProbateMartin Isaac Curtis witnessed the probate of the estate of Joshua Curtis Jr. on 14 May 1879 at McDowell, North Carolina; Administrator E.H. Grant named the heirs as Alfred, Martin and Nancy Curtis, Elizabeth Lackey and Rebecca Stroud.4 
Census*Martin Isaac Curtis and Martha M. (Mattie) Jimison appeared on the census of 4 June 1880 at Marion Twp., McDowell, North Carolina, page 365A, occupation farmer, 5 children and mother at home.10 
CensusMartin Isaac Curtis and Martha M. (Mattie) Jimison appeared on the census of 30 June 1900 at Marion Twp., McDowell, North Carolina, ED 119, sheet 19A, occupation farmer, owned farm, married 32 years, 5 children, 4 living.12 
CensusMartin Isaac Curtis and Martha M. (Mattie) Jimison appeared on the census of 25 April 1910 at Marion Twp., McDowell, North Carolina, ED 101, sheet 9A, occupation farmer, owned farm, married 41 years, 5 children, 4 living.13 
Death*Martin Isaac Curtis died on 7 September 1916 at McDowell, North Carolina, at age 75; buried at West Marion United Methodist Church Cemetery (Strouds Chapel from death certificate.)7,14 

Family

Martha M. (Mattie) Jimison b. 15 Jan 1842, d. 27 Mar 1924
Children

Citations

  1. [S1] Census of Population 1850.
  2. [S1157] Cox, Randolph & Silvers Aldridge, McDowell County Cemeteries.
  3. [S1011] North Carolina State Archives, North Carolina Death Records.
  4. [S1272] Probate File of Joshua Curtis unknown file number.
  5. [S1257] Shirley Cawyer and Blanche Culbreth, Henderson County Marriages 1851-1898.
  6. [S1605] Bureau of Vital Statistics and North Carolina State Archives North Carolina State Board of Health, North Carolina Death Certificates, Suell Curtis.
  7. [S1157] Cox, Randolph & Silvers Aldridge, McDowell County Cemeteries, West Marion United Methodist Church Cemetery.
  8. [S1] Census of Population 1860.
  9. [S1558] "Military Service Record of Martin J. Curtis, CSA, McDowell."
  10. [S1] Census of Population 1880.
  11. [S1] Census of Population 1870.
  12. [S1] Census of Population 1900.
  13. [S1] Census of Population 1910.
  14. [S1605] Bureau of Vital Statistics and North Carolina State Archives North Carolina State Board of Health, North Carolina Death Certificates.

Nancy Curtis1,2

F, b. 1845
FatherJoshua Curtis Jr.1 b. 1799, d. 15 Mar 1874
MotherMary Elizabeth (Polly) Stroud1 b. 1803
Last Edited1 Oct 2006
Birth*Nancy Curtis was born in 1845 at Burke, North Carolina.1 
(Witness) CensusShe appeared on the census of 13 August 1850 McDowell, North Carolina, in the household of Joshua Curtis Jr. and Mary Elizabeth (Polly) Stroud; page 270b, occupation farmer, real estate valued at $600, 5 children and Margaret Stroud at home.1 
(Witness) CensusNancy Curtis appeared on the census of 30 June 1860 Marion P.O., McDowell, North Carolina, in the household of Joshua Curtis Jr. and Mary Elizabeth (Polly) Stroud; page 199, occupation farmer, real estate valued at $500, 3 children at home.3 
(Witness) ProbateNancy Curtis witnessed the probate of the estate of Joshua Curtis Jr. on 14 May 1879 at McDowell, North Carolina; Administrator E.H. Grant named the heirs as Alfred, Martin and Nancy Curtis, Elizabeth Lackey and Rebecca Stroud.2 
NoteB* No record of Nancy Curtis appears after the 1860 census. There is a McDowell marriage record for Nancy M. Curtis and A.L. Noblet on 9 August 1861, but no record of either has been found in subsequent records. 

Citations

  1. [S1] Census of Population 1850.
  2. [S1272] Probate File of Joshua Curtis unknown file number.
  3. [S1] Census of Population 1860.

Alfred W. Curtis1,2

M, b. 22 November 1847, d. 16 October 1927
FatherJoshua Curtis Jr.1 b. 1799, d. 15 Mar 1874
MotherMary Elizabeth (Polly) Stroud1 b. 1803
Last Edited3 Nov 2012
Birth*Alfred W. Curtis was born on 22 November 1847 at McDowell, North Carolina.3,4 
(Witness) CensusHe appeared on the census of 13 August 1850 McDowell, North Carolina, in the household of Joshua Curtis Jr. and Mary Elizabeth (Polly) Stroud; page 270b, occupation farmer, real estate valued at $600, 5 children and Margaret Stroud at home.1 
(Witness) CensusAlfred W. Curtis appeared on the census of 30 June 1860 Marion P.O., McDowell, North Carolina, in the household of Joshua Curtis Jr. and Mary Elizabeth (Polly) Stroud; page 199, occupation farmer, real estate valued at $500, 3 children at home.5 
Marriage*Alfred W. Curtis married Sarah T. Lard on 10 November 1870 at Sangamon, Illinois.6,7 
(Witness) ProbateAlfred W. Curtis witnessed the probate of the estate of Joshua Curtis Jr. on 14 May 1879 at McDowell, North Carolina; Administrator E.H. Grant named the heirs as Alfred, Martin and Nancy Curtis, Elizabeth Lackey and Rebecca Stroud.2 
Census*Alfred W. Curtis and Sarah T. Lard appeared on the census of 7 June 1880 at Pawnee Twp., Sangamon, Illinois, lpage 413, occupation farmer, renting, 3 children at home.6 
Census*Alfred W. Curtis and Sarah T. Lard appeared on the census of 2 June 1900 at West Town, Chicago, Cook, Illinois, ED 299, sheet 3B, occupation farmer, renting, married 30 years, 6 children, 6 living.8 
CensusAlfred W. Curtis and Sarah T. Lard appeared on the census of 22 April 1910 at Chicago, Cook, Illinois.9 
CensusAlfred W. Curtis and Sarah T. Lard appeared on the census of 5 January 1920 at Western Springs Village, Lyons Twp., Cook, Illinois, ED 112, sheet 7A, occupation manufacturer-veneered panels, owned home, 1 daughter living with them.10 
Death*Alfred W. Curtis died on 16 October 1927 at Marion, McDowell, North Carolina, at age 79; widowed, married Sarah Lard, occupation manufacturer, buried at Cumberland Cemetery in Glenarm.4,11 

Family

Sarah T. Lard b. 2 Nov 1849, d. 1 Aug 1925
Children

Citations

  1. [S1] Census of Population 1850.
  2. [S1272] Probate File of Joshua Curtis unknown file number.
  3. [S1] Census of Population 1850-1900.
  4. [S1605] Bureau of Vital Statistics and North Carolina State Archives North Carolina State Board of Health, North Carolina Death Certificates.
  5. [S1] Census of Population 1860.
  6. [S1] Census of Population 1880.
  7. [S66] Illinois, Illinois Marriages 1763-1900.
  8. [S1] Census of Population 1900.
  9. [S1] Census of Population 1910.
  10. [S1] Census of Population 1920.
  11. [S1368] Find A Grave, Find A Grave, Cumberland, Sangamon, Illinois.

Margaret Curtis1,2,3

F, b. 1768
FatherJonathan Curtis2,3 b. 1747, d. 22 Jan 1834
MotherMrs. Jonathan Curtis b. c 1750
Last Edited24 Mar 2013
Birth*Margaret Curtis was born in 1768 at North Carolina.1 
Married Name As of circa 1789,her married name was Stroud.3 
Marriage*She married Peter Stroud Jr. circa 1789; Per Marty Grant: "Peter Stroud married Margaret Curtis in Burke (now McDowell) Co, NC sometime just before 1790. I have never found any proof that her maiden name was Curtis, but that information is handed down from generations past. She was born ca 1767/68 (per 1850 census) in North Carolina, county unknown. She might be a daughter of Jonathan Curtis (1747-1834), but that is also unproven."4 
Land Sale* On 2 August 1852 Margaret Curtis sold land at McDowell, North Carolina, to Joseph C. Grayson for $110, described as a "one tenth undivided share of four tracts or parcels of land lying and being in the County of McDowell on the waters of Muddy Creek all joining formerly belonging to Peter Stroud, dec'd and falling to said Curtis and wife by her being one of the legal heirs of Peter Stroud."5 
NoteB* "Peter Stroud Jr., probably born ca. 1767, judging from his likely wedding year; d. 1834; m. ca 1789 Burke Co., Margaret (surname possibly Curtis). Margaret is found in the James Stroud household in the 1840 Burke Co. census and with daughter Mary Stroud Curtis in the 1850 McDowell Co. census. Peter's children included . . . Mary, m. Joshua Curtis. . . ." Researchers have struggled to prove that Peter Stroud and Joshua Curtis married Margaret and Mary Curtis, respectively, daughters of Jonathan Curtis of Burke County. If this is true, then Joshua Curtis (b. 1799) married his cousin Mary.2 

Family

Peter Stroud Jr. b. bt 1765 - 1770, d. b 1852
Children

Citations

  1. [S1] Census of Population 1850.
  2. [S1184] Thomas W. Camfield, "Stroud Family of Burke County."
  3. [S1271] Marty and Karla Grant, "Peter Stroud and Margaret Curtis Family", Ancestral File.
  4. [S1232] McDowell County Deeds: Book 3, page 37, Register of Deeds.
  5. [S1232] McDowell County Deeds: Book 3, pages 37-38, Register of Deeds.

Rebecca Curtis1,2,3

F, b. 2 January 1825, d. 1 October 1904
FatherJoshua Curtis Jr.1 b. 1799, d. 15 Mar 1874
MotherMary Elizabeth (Polly) Stroud1 b. 1803
Last Edited7 Oct 2006
Birth*Rebecca Curtis was born on 2 January 1825 at Burke, North Carolina.1,2 
Married Name As of circa 1849,her married name was Stroud.2,4 
Marriage*She married Enoch Calhoun Stroud, son of William Stroud and Priscilla (?), circa 1849 at McDowell, North Carolina; no marriage record.2,4 
Census*Rebecca Curtis and Enoch Calhoun Stroud appeared on the census of 30 July 1850 at McDowell, North Carolina, page 261, occupation shoemaker, real estate valued at $75, no children, Oliver Stroud, age 10, lived with them.5 
CensusRebecca Curtis and Enoch Calhoun Stroud appeared on the census of 25 June 1860 at Marion P.O., McDowell, North Carolina, page 189b, occupation farmer, real estate valued at $400, 5 children at home.6 
CensusRebecca Curtis and Enoch Calhoun Stroud appeared on the census of 24 June 1870 at Marion P.O., Marion Twp., McDowell, North Carolina, page 635b, occupation farmer, owned farm valued at $500, 9 children at home.7 
(Witness) ProbateRebecca Curtis witnessed the probate of the estate of Joshua Curtis Jr. on 14 May 1879 at McDowell, North Carolina; Administrator E.H. Grant named the heirs as Alfred, Martin and Nancy Curtis, Elizabeth Lackey and Rebecca Stroud.3 
Census*Rebecca Curtis appeared on the census of 7 June 1880 at Marion Twp., McDowell, North Carolina, page 368C, occupation keeping house, widowed, 7 children t home.8 
CensusShe appeared on the census of 27 June 1900 at Marion Twp., McDowell, North Carolina, ED 119, sheet 17A, widowed, living with Edward.9 
Death*She died on 1 October 1904 at McDowell, North Carolina, at age 79; buried at the West Marion United Methodist Church Cemetery.5,2,10 

Family

Enoch Calhoun Stroud b. 1827, d. bt 1871 - 1879
Children

Citations

  1. [S1] Census of Population 1830.
  2. [S1271] Marty and Karla Grant, "Peter Stroud and Margaret Curtis Family", Ancestral File.
  3. [S1272] Probate File of Joshua Curtis unknown file number.
  4. [S1] Census of Population 1850, 1860.
  5. [S1] Census of Population 1850.
  6. [S1] Census of Population 1860.
  7. [S1] Census of Population 1870.
  8. [S1] Census of Population 1880.
  9. [S1] Census of Population 1900.
  10. [S1157] Cox, Randolph & Silvers Aldridge, McDowell County Cemeteries, West Marion United Methodist.
  11. [S1] Census of Population 1860, 1870.

Lucinda Bird1,2,3,4

F, b. 16 February 1800, d. 24 April 1888
FatherRichard R. Bird1 b. 27 Aug 1769, d. 26 Jul 1856
MotherElizabeth Westlake1 b. 22 Apr 1780, d. 23 May 1853
Last Edited4 Jul 2007
Birth*Lucinda Bird was born on 16 February 1800 at Burke, North Carolina; date of birth from bible transcription, alternate date is 16 January 1800.3,4,1,2,5 
Married Name As of 18 December 1815,her married name was Curtis.1,2,3,4 
Marriage*She married Thomas Curtis Esq., son of Joshua Curtis and Mary Curtis, on 18 December 1815 at Burke, North Carolina; bondsman Benjamin Curtis, witness Jno Burgin.1,2,3,4 
CensusLucinda Bird and Thomas Curtis Esq. appeared on the census of 1820 at Burke, North Carolina, page 63, 3 females under 10, 1 male 26-44, 1 female 16-25, 1 female over 45.6 
Census*Lucinda Bird and Thomas Curtis Esq. appeared on the census of 1830 at Burke, North Carolina, page 178, 2 males and 2 females under 5, 1 male and 1 female 5-9, 1 male and 1 female 20-29.7 
CensusLucinda Bird and Thomas Curtis Esq. appeared on the census of 1840 at South of Catawba & West of North Fork, Burke, North Carolina, page 335, 1 male under 5, 1 male and 1 female 5-9, 2 males and 1 female 10-15, 3 females 15-19, 1 male and 1 female 40-40; based on the list of his heirs in 1879, it is likely that not all of these were children.8 
CensusLucinda Bird and Thomas Curtis Esq. appeared on the census of 5 September 1850 at McDowell, North Carolina, page 291b, occupation farmer, real estate valued at $12, 7 children at home.3 
(Witness) BioA book " Bird Family History " written by Mrs. Preston Thomas of Asheville, NC and William Ernest Bird of Cullowhee, NC. this excerpt online at Ancestry.com by Rick Bird arickster@verizon.net http://awt.ancestry.com/cgi-bin/igm.cgi?op=AHN&db=arickster&id=I0757
Methodist Minister
Notes from Bishop James Asbury's Journal, Vol 3, page 469 Oct., 1814. North Carolina.
Wednesday 19. "Rode to Bolings. Behold! Richard Bird came one hundred miles to hasten us to camp meeting away in the bleak hills of Haywood, I was forced by misery to return to my room and bed at Boling's but John held a meeting and preached." Sabbath, 23: "Ordained two others, Thomas Bird and Samuel Edney, after preaching. In our tents we contrived a hearth and had a fire." Monday, 24 "We visited the house of Richard Bird."
Tuesday, 25 "I preached in the home of the father, Benjamin Bird. There was such feeling manifested. We collected liberally on the mite subscription to help the suffering ministry. I had for twenty years past wished to visit the cove; it is done and I have seen my old tried friends, dear Richard and Jona Bird, and William Fulwood, who sheltered and protected me when, during the War of Independence, I was compelled to retire to the swamps and thickets for safety." TracielsGED http://worldconnect.rootsweb.com/cgi-bin/igm.cgi?db=traciels

Richard and his brother Jonathan sheltered Bishop Asbury during the Revolutionary War. Richard was admitted into the traveling connection in 1792, and appointed to the Danville (Va) circuit. He located in 1796.
He served as a traveling preacher in Va and Kentucky. After his location he settled on Catawba River, in McDowell Co, NC. "in point of talent he was above mediocrity. His sermons were short and his sentences beautiful and comprehensive. His manner was not controversial; he simply expounded the dictrine of his text and then applied it. In speaking he seldom violated a rule of grammar or rhetoric. He was not a classical scholar, but used good English. His voice was rather weak but agreeable to the ear, being a ready vehicle of the thought and emotion of the speaker. On his death bed he said: "My hope is in the Lord; I walk by faith, and not by sight."
He left behind many relatives. His obituary-notice, written in 1856, stated that his descendants then numbered two hundred, a few of them being of the fourth generation. http://www.looksmart.com/r?page=/search/frames/index.html&isp=zbe&name=&bcolor=cccccc&key=bird+genealogy&url=

Title: Rev Last Will and Testament of Richard Bird
"IN THE FEAR OF GOD AMEN" "I Richard Bird of the County of McDowell and State of No. Carolina - Being of sound mind and memory blessed be God - yet knowing that all must die - hath thought proper to provide for my sons F.A. and R. I. Bird to make them equal with my other sons and in doing so do hereby make this my last will and testament in manner and form following "1st I give and bequeath unto the above named Francis A. and Richard I. the lands on which I live Lying in the County of McDowell on both sides of the Catawba River bounded as by conveyances in my possession and on Register in the office of Burke County said lands to be equally divided between them in quantity and quality. They paying a Debt due to John Rutherford and another to the Bank at Asheville - and the balances of my property that Remain Real or personal to be divided among my Children in this county by Sale or otherwise only Claiming my maintainence on my possessions while I live and what is due me by note of Book to be applied in discharge of the above named debts." "In Testimony hereof I have herunto set my hand and seal this 10th day of August in the year of our Lord One Thousand Eight hundred and fifty three - Signed Sealed published and declared. Signed: Richard Bird (Seal) in the presence of Signed: Alney Burgin Joseph Burgin State of North Carolina, Court of Pleas and Quarter Sessions McDowell County Summer Term 1856 The foregoing Last Will and Testament was presented in open court for probate and the due Execution Thereof was proven in solemn form by the oaths of Alney Burgin and Joseph B. Burgin. Subscribing witnesses thereto and ordered to be Recorded and Registered. Test A.M. Finley Clerk

The following is from ncnjjim@yahoo.com
The information below was found in a Bird Family History written by Mrs. Preston Thomas of Asheville, NC and William Ernest Bird of Cullowhee, NC. The copy was in The Carson House, Marion, NC. In it they cite the following from a publication called "Herald of Truth" published in Hendersonville, NC 9/4/1856. They talk of the Rev. Richard Bird born in Wilkes Co., NC 8/28/1769 and died in McDowell Co., NC 7/26/1856. They say he was licensed to preach as a young man and was admitted into travelling connection in 1792 being appointed to the Danville Circuit. In 1793 preached the Kingstone Circuit and in 1795 the New River Circuit. He travelled considerably with Bishop Asbury. and William Burke. (This was of the Methodist Church.) He went to Kentucky and travelled in Western Virginia for 2 years. He married in Virginia and settled on the Catawba River in what is now McDowell County. There he became a local preacher. He was not a classical scholar but understood the English language very well.

RICHARD BIRD

Richard, son of Benjamin and Elizabeth Bird, was born 27 August 1769 [from Asbury Bird family Bible] in North Carolina. In his obituary, composed in 1856, it was stated that the county of his birth was Wilkes. However, Wilkes was not established until 1777. As noted earlier, the family probably lived in the part of Rowan County that ultimately became first Surry, then Wilkes County. England and was not organized as a distinct and separate church until after the American Revolution. Although "Methodist Societies" were formed in Virginia and North Carolina and a "North Carolina Circuit" was Bishop Asbury was the first of the Methodist circuit riders to visit in Old Burke an unknown place . Between February, 1786, and October, 1814, he traversed the county eight times... [Burke: The History of a North Carolina County 1777-1920, 1977, by E.W. Phifer]

Richard was stationed at Danville in 1792, at Hinkstone in 1793, at Limestone in 1794, at Bottetourt [sic] in 1796, listed as Elder in 1797, and stationed at Greenbriar [sic] in 1797. Some of these place names were in Virginia where he met his future wife, Elizabeth Westlake. There is also a record of a Rev. Richard Bird licensed in Mason County, Kentucky, on 3 August 1794. Richard married Elizabeth sometime in 1794 in Greenbrier County, not registered until 1795 and carried no date other than the year. On the same page of the register were two marriages performed by the Reverend Richard Bird himself.

in 1796 [some say 1797]. Besides his Holston work, he traveled in Kentucky and Virginia. Bird's location deprives him of a memoir in the minutes [of the Methodist conference]. Hence his record, though on high, is not in ministers of the gospel they were towers of strength in that part of the moral vineyard. Richard Bird was a man of fair talent and education and a very earnest preacher. He preached and exhorted with pungency and power, and he generally produced a religious sensation in his audiences. The writer has heard him preach, and remembers him as a man who preached with the Holy Ghost sent down from heaven."

As was mentioned, Richard located ca. 1797. Located ministers were stationary and served only one church or were partially or fully retired. The book, Holston Methodism, Vol. 2, by R. N. Price, p. 201-2, states, "After his location he settled on the Catawba River, in McDowell County, N.C." Actually, the county was probably Burke, since McDowell was not established from Burke and Rowan until 1842, and his father lived within that county. The Phifer book quoted earlier said that Richard was a member of the Burke County Court in 1805. His location may have been because he had married, had started a family, and needed to be at home more. Even though located, Richard continued to be a part of the Methodist ministry. He is mentioned in Bishop Francis Asbury's Journals (edited by Elmer Clark) several times:
Vol. 2, p. 762, North Carolina, 1814:
Wednesday, 19 (October): "Rode to Bollen's. Behold! Richard Bird came one hundred miles to hasten us to camp meeting away on the bleak hills of Haywood. I was forced by misery to return to my room and bed at Bollen's; but son John held a meeting and preached." Monday, 24: "We visited Richard Bird's." Tuesday, 25: "I preached in the house of the father, Benjamin Bird... I have seen my old, tried friends, dear Richard and Jonah [Jonathan?] Bird... who sheltered me when, during the war of independence, I was compelled to retire to the swamps and thickets for safety...."Although Richard had not been located on an earlier census, he was on the 1820 Burke County, North Carolina, one [10] as 210101-32110-03. This meant that Richard was over 45 years old, and Elizabeth was between 26 and 45. Their children were listed as one male and one female 16-26, one male and two females 10-16, and two males and three females under 10. He was also on the 1830 census [179].

Richard made his will on 10 August 1853, saying he thought it proper to provide for his sons, Francis A. and Richard I. Bird, to make them equal with his other sons. He gave them the lands on which he lived in McDowell County on both sides of the Catawba River. Witnesses were Alney Burgin and Joseph Burgin. The will was probated in the summer session of the Court in 1856.

Father of Israel Gone." [punctuation added] Brother Hicks, I am called upon to write a communication for your paper concerning the life, labors, and death of Rev. Richard Bird. He was born in Wilkes County, N.C., Aug. 28, 1769, and died in McDowell County, July 26, 1856. He joined the M.E. Church, embraced religion, and was licensed to preach the gospel while a young man.

to the Danville circuit. His presiding Elder was Francis Poythress. In 1793 he was sent to the Kingstone circuit, P.E. the same. In 1794 he was sent to the Limestone Circuit. In 1795 he was sent to the New River Circuit, John Colber, P.E. He then located.

He traveled considerably with Bishop Asbury, Wm. Burke, and several others. He volunteered and was sent by Bishop Asbury to labor in Kentucky, on the frontier of civilization, where the Indians endangered his life. There he met with trials and difficulties, to which ministers are no strangers. In Western Virginia he traveled and preached about two years. His labors, I have no doubt, blessed some who now live, [and] perhaps, remember him well. He married in Virginia; soon after, he located and settled on the Catawba River, McDowell County, N.C. Since that time he has preached what he could as a local preacher.

In point of talents, he ranked above mediocrity in the local ministry. His sermons were short, his sentences beautiful and comprehensive. His manner was not controversial; he simply expounded the doctrine of his text and applied it. In declamation, he seldom violated any rule of grammar or rhetoric. He was not a classical scholar but understood the English language well. Guided by common sense, he did violence to no rule of the book. He preached both to the head and the heart, and most of the people liked to hear him. His voice was rather weak and tremulous, but affecting.

that his voice was rather stronger than usual, and his manner earnest and impressive. This was at the Bethel Meetinghouse, about three weeks before his departure. Father Bird's head was silvered over with the "frosts of many winters," yet he looked healthy, and was nimble and active, riding to and fro over the county by himself. He returned from Asheville to his residence about two weeks before his death; and twelve days before his death was attacked by the fatal disease, diarrhea. It was impressed upon his mind from the start that his work was done.

The things of this world troubled him not while afflicted; but his mind was employed in thinking on better things. The writer visited him twice during his affliction, and sang and prayed with him. He would join in the spirit of prayer, and seemed to be ready, waiting for the Lord to take him from this vexatious world. Never was there an afflicted and dying man more patient and resigned than he appeared to be. We asked him how his religious growing weaker every hour, until his heart ceased to beat and he fell asleep in the arms of a merciful Savior. His remains were decently entombed in the old grave yard at Ebenezer Church, only to be brought forth at the celestial and heavenly body. Hence his relatives shed tears of grief and joy; they were sorry to see him taken from them, but glad to see him willingly pass through the ordeal of death.
was well. We have lost a friend and able minister. Heaven has received one redeemed from earth. He has left behind him many friends and relatives. His own descendants number more than two hundred. From information given us there is one or two of the fourth generation.

May they all live, as to be able to meet their venerable father in the everlasting kingdom of our Lord Jesus Christ. (signed) Jno. W. Williamson,Catawba Circuit

Richard died in North Carolina on 26 July 1856. Elizabeth died 23 May 1853 at age 73. The following stones are found in the Old Ebenezer Cemetery, McDowell County, North Carolina:
Rev. Richard Bird died July 26, 1856, age 85, 10 months, 29 days; Elizabeth, Wife of Rev. Richard R. Bird, died 1853, age 73;
Richard and Elizabeth (Westlake) Bird had at least the twelve children listed here (some researchers say there were others who died young):
From the family history of James Robert (Bob) Dixon. 1996 (not published) forwarded to Ronald L. Berryhill in early 1997.1 
CensusLucinda Bird and Thomas Curtis Esq. appeared on the census of 23 July 1860 at Hot House P.O., Georgia Militia District 1029, Fannin, Georgia, page 1061, occupation farmer, renting, 3 children at home.9 
CensusLucinda Bird and Thomas Curtis Esq. appeared on the census of 18 July 1870 at Morganton P.O., Georgia Militia District 980, Fannin, Georgia, page 378b, occupation retired farmer, living with Richard.10 
(Witness) CensusLucinda Bird appeared on the census of 17 June 1880 Hot House Twp., Fannin, Georgia, in the household of Richard Ivy Byrd Curtis and Juliette Condecia Wilson; page 664D, occupation farmer, 6 children and Lucinda at home.11 
Death*Lucinda Bird died on 24 April 1888 at McDowell, North Carolina, at age 88; buried at Hot House Baptist Cemetery, Fannin County, Georgia; one cemetery transcription is simply 1886.1,2,3,4 

Family

Thomas Curtis Esq. b. 15 Oct 1791, d. 28 Mar 1875
Children

Citations

  1. [S1155] Kenneth Jackson, "Jackson-Ashcraft Families", Ancestral File.
  2. [S1156] Dale Dyer, Fannin County Cemeteries, Hot House Baptist Cemetery.
  3. [S1] Census of Population 1850.
  4. [S1148] Helen Nuffer, "Ancestral File of Helen Nuffer", Ancestral File.
  5. [S1168] Old Buncombe County North Carolina Genealogical Society, , Asbury Bird Bible, pages 104-105, August 1999.
  6. [S1] Census of Population 1820.
  7. [S1] Census of Population 1830.
  8. [S1] Census of Population 1840.
  9. [S1] Census of Population 1860.
  10. [S1] Census of Population 1870.
  11. [S1] Census of Population 1880.

Richard R. Bird1

M, b. 27 August 1769, d. 26 July 1856
Last Edited11 Jul 2007
Birth*Richard R. Bird was born on 27 August 1769 at Wilkes, North Carolina; from source; Wilkes was not formed until 1779.1 
Marriage*He married Elizabeth Westlake in 1794 at Greenbriar, Virginia.1 
Death*Richard R. Bird died on 26 July 1856 at McDowell, North Carolina, at age 86; buried in the Ebenezer Cemetery.1 
(Witness) BioA book " Bird Family History " written by Mrs. Preston Thomas of Asheville, NC and William Ernest Bird of Cullowhee, NC. this excerpt online at Ancestry.com by Rick Bird arickster@verizon.net http://awt.ancestry.com/cgi-bin/igm.cgi?op=AHN&db=arickster&id=I0757
Methodist Minister
Notes from Bishop James Asbury's Journal, Vol 3, page 469 Oct., 1814. North Carolina.
Wednesday 19. "Rode to Bolings. Behold! Richard Bird came one hundred miles to hasten us to camp meeting away in the bleak hills of Haywood, I was forced by misery to return to my room and bed at Boling's but John held a meeting and preached." Sabbath, 23: "Ordained two others, Thomas Bird and Samuel Edney, after preaching. In our tents we contrived a hearth and had a fire." Monday, 24 "We visited the house of Richard Bird."
Tuesday, 25 "I preached in the home of the father, Benjamin Bird. There was such feeling manifested. We collected liberally on the mite subscription to help the suffering ministry. I had for twenty years past wished to visit the cove; it is done and I have seen my old tried friends, dear Richard and Jona Bird, and William Fulwood, who sheltered and protected me when, during the War of Independence, I was compelled to retire to the swamps and thickets for safety." TracielsGED http://worldconnect.rootsweb.com/cgi-bin/igm.cgi?db=traciels

Richard and his brother Jonathan sheltered Bishop Asbury during the Revolutionary War. Richard was admitted into the traveling connection in 1792, and appointed to the Danville (Va) circuit. He located in 1796.
He served as a traveling preacher in Va and Kentucky. After his location he settled on Catawba River, in McDowell Co, NC. "in point of talent he was above mediocrity. His sermons were short and his sentences beautiful and comprehensive. His manner was not controversial; he simply expounded the dictrine of his text and then applied it. In speaking he seldom violated a rule of grammar or rhetoric. He was not a classical scholar, but used good English. His voice was rather weak but agreeable to the ear, being a ready vehicle of the thought and emotion of the speaker. On his death bed he said: "My hope is in the Lord; I walk by faith, and not by sight."
He left behind many relatives. His obituary-notice, written in 1856, stated that his descendants then numbered two hundred, a few of them being of the fourth generation. http://www.looksmart.com/r?page=/search/frames/index.html&isp=zbe&name=&bcolor=cccccc&key=bird+genealogy&url=

Title: Rev Last Will and Testament of Richard Bird
"IN THE FEAR OF GOD AMEN" "I Richard Bird of the County of McDowell and State of No. Carolina - Being of sound mind and memory blessed be God - yet knowing that all must die - hath thought proper to provide for my sons F.A. and R. I. Bird to make them equal with my other sons and in doing so do hereby make this my last will and testament in manner and form following "1st I give and bequeath unto the above named Francis A. and Richard I. the lands on which I live Lying in the County of McDowell on both sides of the Catawba River bounded as by conveyances in my possession and on Register in the office of Burke County said lands to be equally divided between them in quantity and quality. They paying a Debt due to John Rutherford and another to the Bank at Asheville - and the balances of my property that Remain Real or personal to be divided among my Children in this county by Sale or otherwise only Claiming my maintainence on my possessions while I live and what is due me by note of Book to be applied in discharge of the above named debts." "In Testimony hereof I have herunto set my hand and seal this 10th day of August in the year of our Lord One Thousand Eight hundred and fifty three - Signed Sealed published and declared. Signed: Richard Bird (Seal) in the presence of Signed: Alney Burgin Joseph Burgin State of North Carolina, Court of Pleas and Quarter Sessions McDowell County Summer Term 1856 The foregoing Last Will and Testament was presented in open court for probate and the due Execution Thereof was proven in solemn form by the oaths of Alney Burgin and Joseph B. Burgin. Subscribing witnesses thereto and ordered to be Recorded and Registered. Test A.M. Finley Clerk

The following is from ncnjjim@yahoo.com
The information below was found in a Bird Family History written by Mrs. Preston Thomas of Asheville, NC and William Ernest Bird of Cullowhee, NC. The copy was in The Carson House, Marion, NC. In it they cite the following from a publication called "Herald of Truth" published in Hendersonville, NC 9/4/1856. They talk of the Rev. Richard Bird born in Wilkes Co., NC 8/28/1769 and died in McDowell Co., NC 7/26/1856. They say he was licensed to preach as a young man and was admitted into travelling connection in 1792 being appointed to the Danville Circuit. In 1793 preached the Kingstone Circuit and in 1795 the New River Circuit. He travelled considerably with Bishop Asbury. and William Burke. (This was of the Methodist Church.) He went to Kentucky and travelled in Western Virginia for 2 years. He married in Virginia and settled on the Catawba River in what is now McDowell County. There he became a local preacher. He was not a classical scholar but understood the English language very well.

RICHARD BIRD

Richard, son of Benjamin and Elizabeth Bird, was born 27 August 1769 [from Asbury Bird family Bible] in North Carolina. In his obituary, composed in 1856, it was stated that the county of his birth was Wilkes. However, Wilkes was not established until 1777. As noted earlier, the family probably lived in the part of Rowan County that ultimately became first Surry, then Wilkes County. England and was not organized as a distinct and separate church until after the American Revolution. Although "Methodist Societies" were formed in Virginia and North Carolina and a "North Carolina Circuit" was Bishop Asbury was the first of the Methodist circuit riders to visit in Old Burke an unknown place . Between February, 1786, and October, 1814, he traversed the county eight times... [Burke: The History of a North Carolina County 1777-1920, 1977, by E.W. Phifer]

Richard was stationed at Danville in 1792, at Hinkstone in 1793, at Limestone in 1794, at Bottetourt [sic] in 1796, listed as Elder in 1797, and stationed at Greenbriar [sic] in 1797. Some of these place names were in Virginia where he met his future wife, Elizabeth Westlake. There is also a record of a Rev. Richard Bird licensed in Mason County, Kentucky, on 3 August 1794. Richard married Elizabeth sometime in 1794 in Greenbrier County, not registered until 1795 and carried no date other than the year. On the same page of the register were two marriages performed by the Reverend Richard Bird himself.

in 1796 [some say 1797]. Besides his Holston work, he traveled in Kentucky and Virginia. Bird's location deprives him of a memoir in the minutes [of the Methodist conference]. Hence his record, though on high, is not in ministers of the gospel they were towers of strength in that part of the moral vineyard. Richard Bird was a man of fair talent and education and a very earnest preacher. He preached and exhorted with pungency and power, and he generally produced a religious sensation in his audiences. The writer has heard him preach, and remembers him as a man who preached with the Holy Ghost sent down from heaven."

As was mentioned, Richard located ca. 1797. Located ministers were stationary and served only one church or were partially or fully retired. The book, Holston Methodism, Vol. 2, by R. N. Price, p. 201-2, states, "After his location he settled on the Catawba River, in McDowell County, N.C." Actually, the county was probably Burke, since McDowell was not established from Burke and Rowan until 1842, and his father lived within that county. The Phifer book quoted earlier said that Richard was a member of the Burke County Court in 1805. His location may have been because he had married, had started a family, and needed to be at home more. Even though located, Richard continued to be a part of the Methodist ministry. He is mentioned in Bishop Francis Asbury's Journals (edited by Elmer Clark) several times:
Vol. 2, p. 762, North Carolina, 1814:
Wednesday, 19 (October): "Rode to Bollen's. Behold! Richard Bird came one hundred miles to hasten us to camp meeting away on the bleak hills of Haywood. I was forced by misery to return to my room and bed at Bollen's; but son John held a meeting and preached." Monday, 24: "We visited Richard Bird's." Tuesday, 25: "I preached in the house of the father, Benjamin Bird... I have seen my old, tried friends, dear Richard and Jonah [Jonathan?] Bird... who sheltered me when, during the war of independence, I was compelled to retire to the swamps and thickets for safety...."Although Richard had not been located on an earlier census, he was on the 1820 Burke County, North Carolina, one [10] as 210101-32110-03. This meant that Richard was over 45 years old, and Elizabeth was between 26 and 45. Their children were listed as one male and one female 16-26, one male and two females 10-16, and two males and three females under 10. He was also on the 1830 census [179].

Richard made his will on 10 August 1853, saying he thought it proper to provide for his sons, Francis A. and Richard I. Bird, to make them equal with his other sons. He gave them the lands on which he lived in McDowell County on both sides of the Catawba River. Witnesses were Alney Burgin and Joseph Burgin. The will was probated in the summer session of the Court in 1856.

Father of Israel Gone." [punctuation added] Brother Hicks, I am called upon to write a communication for your paper concerning the life, labors, and death of Rev. Richard Bird. He was born in Wilkes County, N.C., Aug. 28, 1769, and died in McDowell County, July 26, 1856. He joined the M.E. Church, embraced religion, and was licensed to preach the gospel while a young man.

to the Danville circuit. His presiding Elder was Francis Poythress. In 1793 he was sent to the Kingstone circuit, P.E. the same. In 1794 he was sent to the Limestone Circuit. In 1795 he was sent to the New River Circuit, John Colber, P.E. He then located.

He traveled considerably with Bishop Asbury, Wm. Burke, and several others. He volunteered and was sent by Bishop Asbury to labor in Kentucky, on the frontier of civilization, where the Indians endangered his life. There he met with trials and difficulties, to which ministers are no strangers. In Western Virginia he traveled and preached about two years. His labors, I have no doubt, blessed some who now live, [and] perhaps, remember him well. He married in Virginia; soon after, he located and settled on the Catawba River, McDowell County, N.C. Since that time he has preached what he could as a local preacher.

In point of talents, he ranked above mediocrity in the local ministry. His sermons were short, his sentences beautiful and comprehensive. His manner was not controversial; he simply expounded the doctrine of his text and applied it. In declamation, he seldom violated any rule of grammar or rhetoric. He was not a classical scholar but understood the English language well. Guided by common sense, he did violence to no rule of the book. He preached both to the head and the heart, and most of the people liked to hear him. His voice was rather weak and tremulous, but affecting.

that his voice was rather stronger than usual, and his manner earnest and impressive. This was at the Bethel Meetinghouse, about three weeks before his departure. Father Bird's head was silvered over with the "frosts of many winters," yet he looked healthy, and was nimble and active, riding to and fro over the county by himself. He returned from Asheville to his residence about two weeks before his death; and twelve days before his death was attacked by the fatal disease, diarrhea. It was impressed upon his mind from the start that his work was done.

The things of this world troubled him not while afflicted; but his mind was employed in thinking on better things. The writer visited him twice during his affliction, and sang and prayed with him. He would join in the spirit of prayer, and seemed to be ready, waiting for the Lord to take him from this vexatious world. Never was there an afflicted and dying man more patient and resigned than he appeared to be. We asked him how his religious growing weaker every hour, until his heart ceased to beat and he fell asleep in the arms of a merciful Savior. His remains were decently entombed in the old grave yard at Ebenezer Church, only to be brought forth at the celestial and heavenly body. Hence his relatives shed tears of grief and joy; they were sorry to see him taken from them, but glad to see him willingly pass through the ordeal of death.
was well. We have lost a friend and able minister. Heaven has received one redeemed from earth. He has left behind him many friends and relatives. His own descendants number more than two hundred. From information given us there is one or two of the fourth generation.

May they all live, as to be able to meet their venerable father in the everlasting kingdom of our Lord Jesus Christ. (signed) Jno. W. Williamson,Catawba Circuit

Richard died in North Carolina on 26 July 1856. Elizabeth died 23 May 1853 at age 73. The following stones are found in the Old Ebenezer Cemetery, McDowell County, North Carolina:
Rev. Richard Bird died July 26, 1856, age 85, 10 months, 29 days; Elizabeth, Wife of Rev. Richard R. Bird, died 1853, age 73;
Richard and Elizabeth (Westlake) Bird had at least the twelve children listed here (some researchers say there were others who died young):
From the family history of James Robert (Bob) Dixon. 1996 (not published) forwarded to Ronald L. Berryhill in early 1997.1 

Family

Elizabeth Westlake b. 22 Apr 1780, d. 23 May 1853
Child

Citations

  1. [S1155] Kenneth Jackson, "Jackson-Ashcraft Families", Ancestral File.

Elizabeth Westlake1

F, b. 22 April 1780, d. 23 May 1853
Last Edited2 Jan 2010
Birth*Elizabeth Westlake was born on 22 April 1780.1 
Married Name As of 1794,her married name was Bird.1 
Marriage*She married Richard R. Bird in 1794 at Greenbriar, Virginia.1 
Death*Elizabeth Westlake died on 23 May 1853 at North Carolina at age 73.1 

Family

Richard R. Bird b. 27 Aug 1769, d. 26 Jul 1856
Child

Citations

  1. [S1155] Kenneth Jackson, "Jackson-Ashcraft Families", Ancestral File.

Matilda Curtis1,2

F, b. 10 March 1817
FatherThomas Curtis Esq.1,2 b. 15 Oct 1791, d. 28 Mar 1875
MotherLucinda Bird1,2 b. 16 Feb 1800, d. 24 Apr 1888
Last Edited9 Aug 2007
Birth*Matilda Curtis was born on 10 March 1817 at Burke, North Carolina.1,2 
Married Name As of 29 August 1840,her married name was Green.3 
Marriage*She married Jourdan Green on 29 August 1840 at Macon, North Carolina; Thomas Green, bondsman, John Hall, clerk.3 
NoteB* No further record.1 

Family

Jourdan Green b. c 1815

Citations

  1. [S1] Census of Population 1850.
  2. [S1155] Kenneth Jackson, "Jackson-Ashcraft Families", Ancestral File.
  3. [S830] North Carolina Works Progress Administration, North Carolina Marriage Bonds, 1741-1868.

Sarah (Sallie) Curtis1,2,3

F, b. 10 May 1820, d. 3 July 1898
FatherWilliam Curtis1,2,3 b. c 1787, d. 14 Dec 1852
MotherMary (Polly) Crowder1,2,3 b. May 1792, d. bt 1861 - 1870
Last Edited23 Jun 2008
NoteB* The Jackson-Ashcroft file on Ancestry.com has a Sarah Curtis, daughter of Thomas Curtis and Lucinda Bird, born 20 July 1818, married to Amos McCurry, which conflicts with the estate record of William Curtis, father of this Sarah. The question is who this other Sarah Curtis was.2 
Birth*Sarah (Sallie) Curtis was born on 10 May 1820 at Burke, North Carolina; from cemetery; Rutherford County Heritage says 10 May 1822.3,1,2,4 
Married Name As of 11 November 1843,her married name was McCurry.1,5,3 
Marriage*She married Amos McCurry, son of William McCurry and Nancy E. Curtis, on 11 November 1843 at McDowell, North Carolina; J.C. Herring, bondsman; A.M. Finley D CL, witness.1,5,3 
CensusSarah (Sallie) Curtis and Amos McCurry appeared on the census of 14 August 1850 at McDowell, North Carolina, page 271b, occupation farmer, renting, 2 children at home.3 
CensusSarah (Sallie) Curtis and Amos McCurry appeared on the census of 6 June 1860 at Marion P.O., McDowell, North Carolina, page 159, occupation farmer, renting, 7 children at home.3 
CensusSarah (Sallie) Curtis and Amos McCurry appeared on the census of 15 June 1870 at Marion P.O., Marion Twp., McDowell, North Carolina, page 624, occupation farmer, renting, 7 children at home.6 
CensusSarah (Sallie) Curtis and Amos McCurry appeared on the census of 3 June 1880 at Old Fort Twp., McDowell, North Carolina, page 445C, occupation farmer, 2 children at home.7 
Death*Sarah (Sallie) Curtis died on 3 July 1898 at McDowell, North Carolina, at age 78; buried at the Old Fort Cemetery.4 

Family

Amos McCurry b. 5 Mar 1822, d. 20 Feb 1897
Children

Citations

  1. [S1149] Edward Peele Williams, "Ancestral File - McCurry and Curtis Families", Ancestral File.
  2. [S1155] Kenneth Jackson, "Jackson-Ashcraft Families", Ancestral File.
  3. [S1] Census of Population 1850.
  4. [S1157] Cox, Randolph & Silvers Aldridge, McDowell County Cemeteries, Old Fort Cemetery.
  5. [S830] North Carolina Works Progress Administration, North Carolina Marriage Bonds, 1741-1868, Bond 000079621.
  6. [S1] Census of Population 1870.
  7. [S1] Census of Population 1880.
  8. [S1] Census of Population 1860.

Amos McCurry1,2,3

M, b. 5 March 1822, d. 20 February 1897
FatherWilliam McCurry1 b. 28 Apr 1791, d. 8 Mar 1869
MotherNancy E. Curtis b. 9 Sep 1800, d. 12 Nov 1885
Last Edited23 Jun 2008
Birth*Amos McCurry was born on 5 March 1822 at Burke, North Carolina; Cemetery transcription is 22 March 1822.3,2,1,4 
Marriage*He married Sarah (Sallie) Curtis, daughter of William Curtis and Mary (Polly) Crowder, on 11 November 1843 at McDowell, North Carolina; J.C. Herring, bondsman; A.M. Finley D CL, witness.1,2,3 
Census*Amos McCurry and Sarah (Sallie) Curtis appeared on the census of 14 August 1850 at McDowell, North Carolina, page 271b, occupation farmer, renting, 2 children at home.3 
CensusAmos McCurry and Sarah (Sallie) Curtis appeared on the census of 6 June 1860 at Marion P.O., McDowell, North Carolina, page 159, occupation farmer, renting, 7 children at home.3 
CensusAmos McCurry and Sarah (Sallie) Curtis appeared on the census of 15 June 1870 at Marion P.O., Marion Twp., McDowell, North Carolina, page 624, occupation farmer, renting, 7 children at home.5 
CensusAmos McCurry and Sarah (Sallie) Curtis appeared on the census of 3 June 1880 at Old Fort Twp., McDowell, North Carolina, page 445C, occupation farmer, 2 children at home.6 
Death*Amos McCurry died on 20 February 1897 at Old Fort, McDowell, North Carolina, at age 74; buried at the Old Fort Cemetery.3,2,1,4 

Family

Sarah (Sallie) Curtis b. 10 May 1820, d. 3 Jul 1898
Children

Citations

  1. [S1149] Edward Peele Williams, "Ancestral File - McCurry and Curtis Families", Ancestral File.
  2. [S830] North Carolina Works Progress Administration, North Carolina Marriage Bonds, 1741-1868, Bond 000079621.
  3. [S1] Census of Population 1850.
  4. [S1157] Cox, Randolph & Silvers Aldridge, McDowell County Cemeteries, Old Fort Cemetery.
  5. [S1] Census of Population 1870.
  6. [S1] Census of Population 1880.
  7. [S1] Census of Population 1860.