Category Archives: Sources and links

Seeking descendants of James Maddox (ca. 1750-1825)

29 Thursday Sep 2022

Posted by in Abbeville, Developing stories, Sources and links

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Still trying to conclusively document the father of Benjamin Maddox (1776-1855)….

I compared the Y-DNA of a known/proven direct male descendant of Benjamin Maddox (1776-1855) to a database of Maddox DNA. I found a Maddox haplogroup in the database that matches the descendant’s DNA with a genetic distance of 2, which can mean a close relationship between the DNA providers. The matching DNA provider claims to be related to a James Maddox (ca. 1750-1825), who lived for some time in Lancaster, S.C. Unfortunately, I have not found any documentation of the link to James Maddox. But this James Maddox’s profile could be a good fit for the father of our Benjamin Maddox (1776-1855), who was born in S.C. at the right time. If you’re a descendant of James Maddox (ca. 1750-1825), please make contact!

The R1b DNA profile of our known descendant of Benjamin Maddox (1776-1855) is provided in the image below.

See the comparable Maddox DNA at https://www.familytreedna.com/public/madoxETC_dna?iframe=ycolorized. The common haplogroup is at lines 139-143.

See more about the James Maddox lineage at http://maddoxdna.com/Main%20Folder/maddox.htm.

Post script… In response to this request, Samantha Nifong posted the info to a South Carolina genealogy site, and Patti Vincent kindly provided numerous Lancaster-area deeds including Benjamin Maddox in the late 1700s. A Benjamin Maddox appears to have been buying/selling land in the Lancaster, SC, area from 1760 through 1801. These documents indicate this Benjamin Maddox would have been too old to be a match for our Benjamin Maddox (1776-1855), but could potentially be a good match as a father, and could possibly be a match for a brother of James Maddox (1750-1825). Here are four deeds:

A 1791 deed re-records a circa-1760 deed in which Benjamin and his wife Rose Madox took possession of acreage in St. Mark’s Parish, S.C. (this parish would have included Lancaster).

A 1793 deed re-records a circa-1762 deed in which “farmer” Benjamin and his wife Rosemond Maddox took possession of 100 acres in Craven County, S.C. (this county included the entire northern half of S.C., including Lancaster). In 1793 they sold it to John Cantzon.

A 1794 deed includes “farmer” Benjamin Maddox, who was “appointed to keep the peace” in Lancaster County, S.C.

An 1803 deed of an 1801 land purchase shows Benjamin Maddox purchasing 75 acres along Teal(sp?) Creek in Lancaster County, S.C., from William Nassimon/Narrimon.

Benjamin Maddox (II) (bef. 1755 – aft. 1810) is probably not the father of our Benjamin Maddox (III) (1776-1855)

29 Wednesday Dec 2021

Posted by in Abbeville, Developing stories, Sources and links

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At least four Benjamin Maddoxes appear in Abbeville County and Laurens County, South Carolina, in the years 1790-1811 – all living in close proximity – and differentiating them has been difficult due to a lack of records.  Most of the records for the area were destroyed in fires in the 19th century. The following evaluation is our best and most recent attempt at correlating records to individuals. The most important implication of this new assessment is that Benjamin (II) (bef. 1755 – aft. 1810) – the man long identified as our direct ancestor – is probably not the father of our proven 3rd-great grandfather Benjamin (III) (1776-1855). We’re researching alternatives and we believe our Benjamin (III) (1776-1855) is descended from a brother or uncle of Benjamin (II) (bef. 1755 – aft. 1810).

Benjamin #1 – “senior” (bef. 1755-aft. 1810)

This Benjamin Maddox was born before 1755 and died after 1810 according to census records.  Most genealogists claim he was born in 1735 and died in 1811, but that seems to be unproven. He is identifiable with the Benjamin Maddox “senior” of Charles County, Maryland, that we have called Benjamin Maddox (II) and this suffix now appears on most genealogy websites.  After moving from Charles County, MD, to Abbeville, SC, this Benjamin Maddox appears to have remained in Abbeville (and did not live in Laurens County, SC).

1776/1778: Benjamin Maddox does not appear on the federal censuses of Charles County, MD. Maddoxes on the 1778 Charles County census include Cornelius, Edward, Henry, Ignatius, Nathan, Rhody, Townley, and two Williams.

1784: Benjamin Maddox “Sr” executes his brother-in-law Humphrey Posey Sr’s will in 28 Feb 1784, Charles County, MD. Leonard Maddox is another executor.

1784: Christ Church (Old Durham Church) Durham Parish, Nanjemoy, MD, microfilm M226, contains records of the Maddox family’s presence from 1780-1786, and their absence thereafter, and the use of the “senior” title for Benjamin Maddox as of 1784.

1790: On 3 March 1790 in Charles County, MD, Benjamin and Mary (nee Posey) sold Posey’s Chance to Samuel Hudson for £100 and Horne Fair to Thomas How Ridgate for £75.

1790: Benjamin Maddox does not appear on the federal census of Charles County, MD.

1790: The federal census of Abbeville County, SC, p. 468, lists Benjamin Maddix with 2 adult males, 7 males, and 3 females.  He was living near Ignatius Posey(son of Pryor Posey and grandson of Humphrey Posey), Walter Maddox, Thomas Donaldson, William Stone and John Night. [55yo or 20yo or 14yo?]

1800: The federal census of Abbeville County, SC, p. 22, lists Benjamin Maddox, including 1 male 45 years or older, 1 male 26-45 years old, 1 male 16-26 years old, 1 male 10-16 years old, 1 female 45 years or older, 1 female 26-45 years old, 1 female 10-16 years old, and 1 slave.  He was living near John Reid Long, William Calhoun, John Calhoun and the Samples. John Maddox’s name appears in the margin to the left of Benjamin’s – probably because John was living with Benjamin in his old age (John would die bef 1810). [65yo or 30yo or 24yo?]

1810: The federal census of Abbeville County, SC, lists Benjamin Matox “senior” greater than 45 years old, with a woman older than 45 years, 1 male 26-45 years old, and 1 female less than 10 years old. He was living next to Elizabeth Matox (likely John Maddox’s widow) and Janet Maddox (nee Janet Posey?), as well as Joseph Rutlege, Thomas Norwood, Benjamin Posey, Susannah Gaines, Richard Stone, William Ware, Henry Gains, Thomas Donaldson, William Donaldson, and Peter Youngblood. [75yo or 40yo or 34yo?]

Benjamin #2 – “junior” (1770-1864)

The below Benjamin Maddox (1770-1864) is very likely the son of Benjamin #1.  The below Benjamin Maddox lived in Laurens County, SC, until after 1811 and then moved to Atlanta, Georgia.

1770: Benjamin Maddox is born in Maryland, according to the 1860 federal census of Atlanta, Georgia.

1805: Thomas Maddox died in Abbeville County, SC.  Thomas’ widow Cloe sold his estate.  Benjamin Maddox “junior” purchased items.  Other purchasers were Thomas Donaldson, Edmund Gaines, Chandler Maddox, Lanty Maddox, and Losson Maddox.

1808: On 9 April, Benjamin Maddox “junior” purchased 165 acres in Laurens District, next to Samuel Neighbors, John South, Thomas Williamson.  The land was along Greenville Road.  William Maddox (likely the father of Benjamin Maddox b. 1801?) witnessed the purchase.

1808: On 5 September, Benjamin Maddox “in Abbeville” sold 100 acres in Laurens District on the north side of the Saluda River to Cornelius Cook. The land was next to land owned by Daniel Cook, Cornelius Cook, and Samuel Nabors.  William Williamson witnessed the sale.  (Source: Deed Book J, p. 263)

1810: On 9 November, the estate of John Maddox was sold.  John’s widow Elizabeth was a buyer, along with Benjamin Maddox “junior,” Lawson Maddox, Augustus Maddox and Chandler Maddox.

1810: The federal census of Laurens County, SC, lists Benjamin Mattocks, 26-45 years old, with 3 males less than 10 years old, 1 female 26-45 years old, 1 female 26-45 years old, and 1 female less than 10 years old. He was living near Daniel Cook, Cornelius Cook, John Grey and John Calhoun. [75yo or 40yo or 34yo?]

1811: On 5 January, Samuel Nabors sold 345 acres on the Saluda River in Laurens County, SC, to Thomas Williamson.  The land was next to Benjamin Maddox, John Meres(?), and Cornelius Cook. (Source: Deed Book J, p. 210)

1811: On 29 January, Benjamin Maddox sold 165 acres along the Saluda River in Laurens County, SC, to Patrick Sperrin.  The land abutted land owned by Solomon Niblets, Thomas Williamson, and Samuel Nabors.  William Maddox witnessed (likely the father of Benjamin Maddox b. 1801?).  Elizabeth Maddox released her dower rights (meaning that Elizabeth was his wife). (Source: Deed Book J, p. 194)

1811: In August, Benjamin Maddox is noted on a land transfer from Patrick Sperin to Arnold.  The land was next to Solomon Niblet and Thomas Williamson.  (Source: Deed Book J, p. 251) Researchers have for a long time mistakenly read the word “dec’d” (deceased) next to Benjamin’s name in this document, but it actually says “viz”. This misreading has caused a lot of confusion because it seemed to imply that this Benjamin cannot be the same Benjamin mentioned in the following records.

1811: Benjamin Maddox was a legatee of Thomas and Janet Donaldson.  Other legatees were James Donaldson, William Donaldson, Thomas Donaldson, and Reuben Donaldson (Source: Joyce Smelley Odom, “Maddox Family,” The Heritage of Abbeville, South Carolina, Don Mill, Inc., 1995, p. 106). 

1828: On 26 November, the Abbeville Court of the Ordinary heard a complaint regarding the estate of Mary Donaldson by General Edmund Ware against many parties, including “Benjamin Maddox and Elizabeth his wife” who were residing “without the state.” Genealogist Samantha Nifong has explained on her blog that the so-called “complaint” in the Court of Ordinary between Edmund Ware and Mary Donaldson’s heirs is actually the division of her estate that is mentioned within Thomas Donaldson’s estate record.

1840: On the federal census of Atlanta, Elbert County, Georgia, Benjamin Maddox was listed as 70-90 years old, living with a similarly aged woman and many children.  He was living near William Calhoun, Eli Donaldson, and William Donaldson.

1860: On the federal census of Atlanta, Georgia, Benjamin Maddox was listed as 90 years old, born in Maryland.  He was living with a dentist named Posey Maddox, 55 years old, born in SC.  Researchers claim Posey was this Benjamin’s son.

1864: Benjamin Maddox was buried at Fulton Cemetery, Atlanta, Georgia, born in 1770.  (Source: findagrave listing)

Benjamin #3 (1776-1855)

Benjamin Maddox #3 (1776-1855) is our 3rd-great grandfather.  We have long maintained that he is the direct descendant of Benjamin Maddox #1, but it’s more likely that he is the son of a brother or uncle of Benjamin Maddox #1.  Benjamin Maddox #3 is proven to be the father of Joseph Maddox, our 2nd-great grandfather, in estate records.  We have normally called him Benjamin Maddox (III) and this (probably incorrect) suffix now appears on most genealogical websites.

1776: Benjamin Maddox was born in South Carolina, according to the 1850 census of Crawford County, Illinois.

1785: The Turkey Creek Baptist Church, Abbeville County, SC, was established and the original meeting house was erected on Richard “Dicky” Maddox’s land (Benjamin Maddox (II) had a brother named Richard).  Among the members were Martha Ware, Nicholas Ware, Caty Gaines, Henry Gaines, Molly Gaines, Susannah Gaines, Barbara Long, Elizabeth Long, Nicholas Long, Michael Magee, Benjamin Neighbours, and Rev. Joseph Redding (Source: South Carolina Baptists, 1670-1805, Leah Townsend, University of South Carolina, 1926, pp.182-192).

1800: Joseph Maddox was born in South Carolina, according to the 1850 and 1860 federal censuses of Crawford County, Illinois.  His parents were Benjamin and Charlotte Maddox (Source: All of Benjamin’s children are listed in a petition by Hannah Maddox et al, 27 February 1865, Crawford County Court Records, File Box 53, Case 34).

1800: The federal census of Abbeville County, SC, p. 19, lists Benjamin Maddox and a woman aged 26-45 years of age, with 1 male less than 10 years old and 1 female less than 10 years old.  He was living near William Stone and John Night, as well as James Gaines and John Grey. [65yo or 30yo or 24yo?]

1820: The federal census of Abbeville County, SC, p. 56, line 7, may include a Benjamin Mattux (misspelled as “Mallux”) and two women, all aged more than 45 years old, with 26 slaves(!?). They were living near Richard Maddox (likely son of Henley; half-brother of Ignatius Posey), Augusta Maddox (likely son of Henley; half-brother of Ignatius Posey), William Gaines, James Gaines, Richard Stone, Elenor McKey/Magee and Robert V. Posey (possible s/o Benjamin V. Posey; possible grandson of John Posey, who witnessed Benjamin Maddox (I)’s 1770 will).

1823: Benjamin Maddox purchased 55 acres in Christian County, Kentucky, along the Stone River from Temple West (Source: August 1823, Christian Co, KY, Deed Book P, p. 147).  Benjamin’s son Joseph owned land nearby (Source: March 1837, Christian Co., KY, Deed Book [P or Q?], pp. 299-300).  A preponderance of the same families that had neighbored Benjamin in South Carolina can be found alongside Benjamin’s name in early Christian County deed books (P&Q), including the Long, Ford, Knight/Night, McKee/Magee, Ware and Grey families.

1837: By 1837, Benjamin and his wife Charlotte moved to Crawford County, Illinois, where they lived near the Ford and Gaines families.  On 25 July 1837 they purchased 40 acres of land for $150 from Washington Brashears in the Montgomery area at “Township Number Six North Range Number Eleven West.”

1855: Benjamin Maddox died in Crawford County, Illinois, and was buried in the Maddox Cemetery near Heathville.

1895: Joseph Maddox’s son John Napoleon Maddox (1872 – 1945) married Frances Gaines (1878 – 1908) in Crawford County, IL.  Frances Gaines was the 2nd-great grandchild of Stephen Gaines (1752-1837), who lived in Laurens County, SC.

Benjamin #4 (1801-aft. 1880)

This Benjamin Maddox (1801-after 1880), the son of William Maddox (1776-1857), was born in Abbeville, SC, and ended up in Fayette County, Alabama, along with other members of the Maddox family from Abbeville.

1801: Benjamin Maddox was born in SC and his father was born in Maryland, according to the 1880 federal census of Fayette County, AL.

1830: Before 1830 in Abbeville, SC, Benjamin Maddox married a Riley.  (Source: Joyce Smelley Odom, “Maddox Family,” The Heritage of Abbeville, South Carolina, Don Mill, Inc., 1995, p. 106.)

1831: After 1831, Benjamin Maddox was named as a son of William Maddox, formerly of Abbeville, SC, in William’s Tuscaloosa, Alabama, estate papers.  (Source: Joyce Smelley Odom, “Maddox Family,” The Heritage of Abbeville, South Carolina, Don Mill, Inc., 1995, p. 106.)

1850: On the federal census of Fayette County, Alabama, Benjamin Mattax is listed as born in 1801, married to Nancy.  Joyce Smelley Odom claims this is Nancy Williamson, daughter of Thomas Williamson.

1850: On the federal census of Fayette County, Alabama, Lawsin Matocks age 66 and born in SC, William Matocks age 31 and born in SC, and John Matocks age 38 and born in SC, were listed separately with their families on page 29.  (Lawsin is assumed by some researchers to be the brother of Benjamin Maddox (III))

1880: On the federal census of Fayette County, Alabama, Benjamin Madox is listed as born in 1801, married to Nancy.  He was born in SC and his father was born in Maryland.  Nancy was born in SC.

The latest research into the possible parents of Edward Maddox (d. 1694)

08 Friday May 2020

Posted by in Edward Maddox, Sources and links

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It took years, but we’ve documented the descendants of Dr. Edward Maddox (d. 1694), who were born in Shropshire, England and baptized at the Munslow Parish Church of St. Michael. Finding Edward’s parents, though, may take us as many more years. Below is the latest information we have:

  • We reported in a 2016 posting that two records in the Munslow Parish book show an Edward Maddox buried on 10 October 1658, and an Alice Maddox, widow, buried on 16 February 1662/3.  Based on the timing and common family names, this Edward and Alice could be the parents of our Dr. Edward Maddox (d. 1694).  
  • Researcher David Pugh wrote to us this week that he “obtained a copy (and transcript) of a Will made by John Everall of Wentnor Shropshire [just northwest of Munslow] on the 15 May 1630 from the Shropshire Library. He left thirty shillings to his grandCHILD Edward Maddox, twenty shillings to another grandCHILD Edward Medlicot,, daughter Allice children three shillings each, daughter Joyes children three shillings each, his son Henry ten shillings, the rest equally to his son Henry and daughter Barbara: “if my daughter Barbara be ruled by my two sonnes and do not marry herself without their consent, otherwise if she will not be ruled by them, I leave her but twenty shillings”.. His son Edward to be sole executor. Witnessed by Henry Everall and Jane Medllicott. It seems that this Edward Maddox was an infant in 1630, but his parents aren’t identified.” Perhaps the “Allice” mentioned in this will is the same as the Alice who was buried at Munslow Parish in 1662/3.
  • In a search through regional parish records of men born in England around 1600, using traditional family given names (Edward, Cornelius, John, Thomas) and all variations of the surname Maddox, we have identified a handful of additional possibilities, but none of them is as compelling as the Edward Maddox (d. 1658) who was living in the same Munslow area as Edward Maddox (d. 1694).  Here are some additional possibilities:
    • Edward Maddox, married Elnor, the daughter of John Hickes, on 30 May 1614 in Norbury, Shropshire.  An Edward Maddox was buried in Norbury, Shropshire, on 13 June 1640.  Source: Norbury Parish Register.
    • Edward Maddox, baptized on 30 July 1591 at Langnor Parish.  His father was Edward and his mother was Alice.  Source: Langnor Parish Register.
    • Edward Maddox, baptized on 26 July 1595 at Frodeslay Parish.  His father’s name was Robert.  Source: Frodeslay Parish Register.
    • Edward Maddox, baptized on 13 November 1589 at Pontesbury, Shropshire.  His father was Thomas.  Source: Pontesbury Parish Register.
    • John Maddox, baptized on 12 January 1589 at Chelmarsh, Shropshire.  His father was Thomas.  Source: Chelmarsh Parish Register.
    • John Maddox, baptized on 24 April 1597 at Clunbury, Shropshire.  His father’s name was John.  Source: Clunbury Parish Register.
    • Edward Madoc, baptized on 29 September 1577 at Ruabon, Denbighshire, Wales.  His father was Wylliam Robert Dd.  Source: Ruabon Parish Register.
    • Edward Madoc, born on 11 October 1579 at Ruabon, Denbighshire, Wales.  His father was Mathe Jenij.  Source: Ruabon Parish Register.
  • One genealogist has posted a speculative list of a handful of Maddoxes who took up residence in Munslow Parish shortly after 1600, all of whom were fathered by a John Maddockes.  However, Edward Maddox (d. 1658) is not listed as one of John’s children.

 

 

A trove of 1686-1693/4 court proceedings involving Edward Maddox (d. 1694)

29 Sunday Dec 2019

Posted by in Edward Maddox, Sources and links

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A collection of Stafford County, Virginia, courthouse papers called “Record Book, 1686-1693/4” documents numerous transactions involving Dr. Edward Maddox around 1687.  The record book is not indexed, requiring researchers to scan each of the 552 hand-written pages for names and details.  It’s only available in person at FamilySearch research centers.  Here are some summaries of proceedings from pages 1-355, listed by page number:

  • Edward sued a patient for payment for medical treatment (bloodlettings, cuppings, tinctures, etc.), 15 Mar 1687 (p. 97).
  • Edward sued another patient for payment for medical treatment, 24 Mar 1687 (p. 116).
  • Edward was paid for 3 wolf heads, 14 Oct 1688 (p. 118).
  • Edward asked the court for prosecution after he paid £200 for the return of a runaway servant, 14 Oct 1688 (p. 118).  He claimed the servant’s disappearance resulted in a ruined tobacco crop.
  • Edward gave a brown cow to William Godfrey, 18 Apr 1689 (p. 131).
  • Edward was paid for 5 wolf heads, 14 Oct 1689 (p. 148).
  • Cornelius Maddox witnessed a transaction between Edward Rockwood and Aspinall in Stafford County [Cornelius, Edward’s son, was living in Charles County, Maryland], 12 Dec 1689 (p. 153).
  • Sampson Darrell married “sole daughter now living” of Capt. John Norgrave.  Edward was ordered to pay damages, Nov 1690 (p. 197).
  • A payment to a Bristol, England, merchant by Dr. Edward Maddocks, 5 May 1691 (p. 216).
  • Edward takes his thirds of Colonel George Mason’s estate by marriage to his widow Frances and discharges his rights to property to George Mason, junior, 19 June 1691 (pp. 227-228).
  • Edward Maddocks present in court as a justice, June 1691 (p. 227).
  • Edward present in court as a justice, 13 Nov 1691 (p. 236).
  • Edward was paid for one wolf head taken by an Indian servant, 13 Nov 1691 (p. 237).
  • The Governor of Virginia appoints Edward Maddock and others as justices in Stafford County, 13 Nov 1690 (p. 244).
  • The Governor of Virginia appoints Edward Maddock and others as justices in Stafford County, 13 June 1690 (p. 245).
  • Edward Maddock purchases lot #15 of proposed Marlborough Town, 11 Feb 1691/2 (p. 256).
  • Edward Maddocks present in court as a justice, 16 May 1692 (p. 261).
  • The Governor of Virginia appoints Edward Maddocks and others as justices in Stafford County, 13 Nov 1690 (p. 273).
  • Edward requests payment from Richard Gibson for medical services, 14 July 1692 (p. 277).
  • Edward Maddocks present in court as a justice, 13 Nov 1692 (p. 291).
  • Edward claims a £200 bounty for 2 wolf heads, 13 Nov 1692 (p. 291).

Edward’s gift of the cow to Godfrey could help explain a family relationship, but I don’t have any insights into the Maddox-Godfrey relationship yet.

Another researcher has claimed that Edward was paid a bounty on 16 November 1687 for joining the militia’s effort to find some Oneida Indians, and cited the Record Book.  I have so far been unable to confirm this claim.

Source: Record Book, 1686-1693/4, Family History Library microfilm #1445833

Did Benjamin Maddox die in 1811?

22 Sunday Jul 2018

Posted by in Abbeville, Developing stories, Sources and links

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Update: Since posting this, we’ve concluded – with your help – that “dec’d” actually reads “viz”. This new reading means that Benjamin Maddox (1770-1864) did not die in 1811, and allows us to clarify his narrative, which is explained in a new posting.

In our lengthy assessment of at least five Benjamin Maddoxes living in the Abbeville County and Laurens County areas of South Carolina in circa 1800, we wrote that an 1811 Laurens County deed described Benjamin Maddox — the son of Benjamin Maddox (I) of Maryland — as “dec’d” (deceased).  This assessment was based on a transcription obtained from the Laurens County Court many years ago.

Benjamin Maddox decd or viz 1811 DeedJ p251

A close look at the 1811 deed, including the word long believed to be “dec’d”.

After reading our assessment, fellow family researcher Samantha Nifong kindly retrieved the original deed, which does appear to include the word “dec’d” (deceased) after Benjamin’s name… or is it the word “viz” (legalese for “that is”)?  If anyone can provide an accurate transcription of these few letters, we’d appreciate it.

The description of Benjamin as “dec’d” in 1811 has important implications for the Maddox lineage in South Carolina, Kentucky, Illinois, Alabama and Georgia.  For example, if he died in 1811, he cannot be identifiable with the Benjamin Maddox who died in Atlanta, Georgia, in 1864.  But if he went on to live after 1811, it potentially contradicts our long-held assessment of Benjamin Maddox (II).

Hopefully this won’t become a #thedress phenomenon.

Revisiting the Benjamin problem

18 Sunday Feb 2018

Posted by in Abbeville, Gaines Family, Sources and links

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Update: We’ve significantly modified our assessment of our various Benjamins since we originally posted this. Please take a look at our updated assessment. Please do not rely on the information below.

For over a decade, we have assessed that the Benjamin Maddox called “junior” in Abbeville County and Laurens County, South Carolina, in 1800-1810, is identifiable with our known 3rd-great grandfather, Benjamin Maddox (1776-1855), who died in Crawford County, Illinois.  We have based this assessment on our 3rd-great grandfather’s claim of South Carolina origins in the 1850 census, the presence of a child of our 2nd-great grandfather Joseph’s age in the 1810 census living with Benjamin Mattocks in Laurens County, SC, and the persistence of peripheral family names in census and land records in South Carolina, Kentucky and Illinois (especially the Gaines, Long and Ford families).

But perhaps five – and maybe more – Benjamin Maddoxes appear in Abbeville County and Laurens County, South Carolina, in the years 1790-1811, and distinguishing them has been difficult due to a lack of corroborative records.  Most of the records for the area were destroyed in fires in the 19th century.

A closer look at existing records raises a number of questions about the identities of the known Benjamin Maddoxes appearing in records in Abbeville County and Laurens County in the years 1790-1811.  The following evaluation, including peripheral names in census and land records, offers a clearer differentiation of the Benjamins.  See this document for color-coded names.

Benjamin #1 – “senior”

This Benjamin Maddox (ca. 1735-after 1810) is likely identifiable with the Benjamin Maddox “senior” of Charles County, Maryland, that we have called Benjamin Maddox (II).  After moving from Charles County, MD, to Abbeville, SC, this Benjamin Maddox appears to have remained in Abbeville (and did not live in Laurens County, SC).

1790: The federal census of Abbeville County, SC, p. 468, lists Benjamin Maddox with 2 adult males, 7 males, and 3 females.  He was living near Ignatius Posey, Walter Maddox, Thomas Donaldson, William Stone and John Night.

1800: The federal census of Abbeville County, SC, p. 19, lists Benjamin Maddox and a woman aged 26-45 years of age, with 1 male less than 10 years old and 1 female less than 10 years old.  As in 1790, he was living near William Stone and John Night, as well as James Gaines and John Grey.

1810: The federal census of Abbeville County, SC, lists Benjamin Matox “senior” greater than 45 years old, with a woman older than 45 years, 1 male 26-45 years old, and 1 female less than 10 years old. He was living next to Elizabeth Matox and Janet Maddox, as well as Joseph Rutlege, Thomas Norwood, Benjamin Posey, Susannah Gaines, Richard Stone, William Ware, Henry Gains, and Peter Youngblood.

Questions:

Why was Benjamin #1 called “senior” in Charles County, Maryland, in Humphrey Posey’s 1784 will?  All proposed sons of Benjamin #1 would have been in their teens at the time.  Was there another Benjamin Maddox in Charles County – perhaps a brother or cousin?  Would this open another ancestral avenue for us?

Benjamin #2 – “junior”

The below Benjamin Maddox is traditionally considered the son of the above Benjamin Maddox.  The below Benjamin Maddox shows up for the first time in 1800 living near Benjamin Maddox #1 in Abbeville, SC, but he moves to Laurens County, SC, in 1808 and remains in Laurens County thereafter.  For decades we have identified him as Benjamin Maddox (III), our 3rd-great grandfather who died in Crawford County, Illinois, in 1855; however, the final record describing him as “dec’d” (deceased) in 1811 requires us to question our assessment.  Other researchers have identified this Benjamin Maddox with a Benjamin Maddox who was born in Maryland in 1770 and died in Atlanta in 1864, but this assessment also requires a new look, given the 1811 record of his death in SC.

1785: The Turkey Creek Baptist Church was established and the original meeting house was erected on Richard “Dicky” Maddox’s land.  Among the members were Martha Ware, Nicholas Ware, Caty Gaines, Henry Gaines, Molly Gaines, Susannah Gaines, Barbara Long, Elizabeth Long, Nicholas Long, Michael Magee, Benjamin Neighbours, and Rev. Joseph Redding (Source: South Carolina Baptists, 1670-1805, Leah Townsend, University of South Carolina, 1926, pp.182-192).

1800: The federal census of Abbeville County, SC, p. 22, lists Benjamin Maddox “junior,” including 1 male 45 years or older, 1 male 26-45 years old, 1 male 16-26 years old, 1 male 10-16 years old, 1 female 45 years or older, 1 female 26-45 years old, 1 female 10-16 years old, and 1 slave.  He was living near John Reid Long, William Calhoun, John Calhoun and the Samples.

1805: Thomas Maddox died in Abbeville County, SC.  Thomas’ widow Cloe sold his estate.  Benjamin Maddox “junior” purchased items.  Other purchasers were Thomas Donaldson, Edmund Gaines, Chandler Maddox, Lanty Maddox, and Losson Maddox.

1808: On 9 April, Benjamin Maddox “junior” purchased 165 acres in Laurens District, next to Samuel Neighbors, John South, Thomas Williamson.  The land was along Greenville Road.  William Maddox witnessed the purchase.

1808: On 5 September, Benjamin Maddox “in Abbeville” sold 100 acres in Laurens District on the north side of the Saluda River to Cornelius Cook. The land was next to land owned by Daniel Cook, Cornelius Cook, and Samuel Nabors.  William Williamson witnessed the sale.  (Source: Deed Book J, p. 263)

1810: The federal census of Laurens County, SC, lists Benjamin Mattocks, 26-45 years old, with 3 males less than 10 years old, 1 female 26-45 years old, 1 female 26-45 years old, and 1 female less than 10 years old.  He was living near Daniel Cook, Cornelius Cook, John Grey and John Calhoun.

1810: On 9 November, the estate of John Maddox was sold.  John’s widow Elizabeth was a buyer, along with Benjamin Maddox “junior,” Lawson Maddox, Augustus Maddox and Chandler Maddox.

1811: On 5 January, Samuel Nabors sold 345 acres on the Saluda River in Laurens County, SC, to Thomas Williamson.  The land was next to Benjamin Maddox, John Meres(?), and Cornelius Cook. (Source: Deed Book J, p. 210)

1811: On 29 January, Benjamin Maddox sold 165 acres along the Saluda River in Laurens County, SC, to Patrick Sperrin.  The land abutted land owned by Solomon Niblets, Thomas Williamson, and Samuel Nabors.  William Maddox witnessed.  Elizabeth Maddox released her dower rights (meaning that Elizabeth was his wife). (Source: Deed Book J, p. 194)

1811: Benjamin Maddox was a legatee of Thomas and Janet Donaldson.  Other legatees were James Donaldson, William Donaldson, Thomas Donaldson, and Reuben Donaldson (Source: Joyce Smelley Odom, “Maddox Family,” The Heritage of Abbeville, South Carolina, Don Mill, Inc., 1995, p. 106).

1811: In August, Benjamin Maddox “dec’d” is noted on a land transfer from Patrick Sperin to Arnold.  The land was next to Solomon Niblet and Thomas Williamson.  (Source: Deed Book J, p. 251)

Questions:

Are we certain that “dec’d” is verbatim on the original August 1811 record?  Could it instead be a note describing Benjamin’s departure from the area?

What happened to Elizabeth Maddox after 1811 if she was widowed?

Is there really no estate administration for the Benjamin Maddox who died in 1811?  Nothing?

Who were the 45+ years old people listed with this Benjamin “junior” on the 1800 census?  Could the older man in the house be another “senior” Benjamin who we haven’t previously considered?

Benjamin #3

Benjamin Maddox #3 (1776-1855) is our 3rd-great grandfather.  We have long maintained that he is the direct descendant of Benjamin Maddox #1.  Benjamin Maddox #3 is proven to be the father of Joseph Maddox, our 2nd-great grandfather, in estate records.  We have normally called him Benjamin Maddox (III).  This Benjamin Maddox #3 could easily be the continuation of Benjamin #2 if Benjamin #2 weren’t reportedly “dec’d” after 1811. 

1776: Benjamin Maddox was born in South Carolina, according to the 1850 censuses of Crawford County, Illinois.

1800: Joseph Maddox was born in South Carolina, according to the 1850 and 1860 federal censuses of Crawford County, Illinois.  His parents were Benjamin and Charlotte Maddox (Source: All of Benjamin’s children are listed in a petition by Hannah Maddox et al, 27 February 1865, Crawford County Court Records, File Box 53, Case 34).

1810: The federal census of Laurens County, SC, lists Benjamin Mattocks, 26-45 years old, with 3 males less than 10 years old, 1 female 26-45 years old, 1 female 26-45 years old, and 1 female less than 10 years old.  Joseph Maddox, the son of Benjamin Maddox, was 10 years old in 1810 and would fit into this census record; however, this Benjamin is identifiable with Benjamin #2, who reportedly died by 1811.  The family was living near Daniel Cook, Cornelius Cook, John Grey and John Calhoun.

1823: Benjamin Maddox purchased 55 acres in Christian County, Kentucky, along the Stone River from Temple West (Source: August 1823, Christian Co, KY, Deed Book P, p. 147).  Benjamin’s son Joseph owned land nearby (Source: March 1837, Christian Co., KY, Deed Book [letter?], pp. 299-300).  A preponderance of the same families that had neighbored Benjamin in South Carolina can be found alongside Benjamin’s name in early Christian County deed books (P&Q), including the Long, Ford, Knight/Night, McKee/Magee, Ware and Grey families.

1837: By 1837, Benjamin and his wife Charlotte moved to Crawford County, Illinois, where they lived near the Ford and Gaines families.  On 25 July 1837 they purchased 40 acres of land for $150 from Washington Brashears in the Montgomery area at “Township Number Six North Range Number Eleven West.”

1855: Benjamin Maddox died in Crawford County, Illinois, and was buried in the Maddox Cemetery near Heathville.

1895: Joseph Maddox’s son John Napoleon Maddox (1872 – 1945) married Frances Gaines (1878 – 1908) in Crawford County, IL.  Frances Gaines was the 2nd-great grandchild of Stephen Gaines (1752-1837), who lived in Laurens County, SC.

Questions:

How was Benjamin #3 born in SC if we maintain that his father was in Charles County, MD, until 1790?  Should we take his 1850 census record literally?

Benjamin #4

This Benjamin Maddox #4 (1770-1864) could easily be the continuation of Benjamin #2 if Benjamin #2 weren’t reportedly “dec’d” after 1811.  This Benjamin was born in Maryland, lived in South Carolina, and died in Georgia.  Other researchers claim that Benjamin Maddox #4 is the same as Benjamin Maddox #2 and the son of Benjamin Maddox #1.

1770: Benjamin Maddox is born in South Carolina, according to the 1860 federal census of Atlanta, Georgia.

1828: On 26 November, the Abbeville Court of the Ordinary heard a complaint regarding the estate of Mary Donaldson by General Edmund Ware against many parties, including “Benjamin Maddox and Elizabeth his wife” who were residing “without the state.”

1840: On the federal census of Atlanta, Elbert County, Georgia, Benjamin Maddox was listed as 70-90 years old, living with a similarly aged woman and many children.  He was living near William Calhoun, Eli Donaldson, and William Donaldson.

1860: On the federal census of Atlanta, Georgia, Benjamin Maddox was listed as 90 years old, born in Maryland.  He was living with a dentist named Posey Maddox, 55 years old, born in SC.  Researchers claim Posey was this Benjamin’s son.

1864: Benjamin Maddox was buried at Fulton Cemetery, Atlanta, Georgia, born in 1770.  (Source: findagrave listing)

Questions:

Can we find a record of Benjamin #4’s wife’s name in Georgia?

If Benjamin #4 is not the same as Benjamin #2, then who are Benjamin #4’s parents in Abbeville?

Benjamin #5

This Benjamin Maddox (1801-after 1880), the son of William Maddox (1776-1857), was born in Abbeville, SC, and ended up in Fayette County, Alabama, along with other members of the Maddox family from Abbeville.

1830: Before 1830 in Abbeville, SC, Benjamin Maddox married a Riley.  (Source: Joyce Smelley Odom, “Maddox Family,” The Heritage of Abbeville, South Carolina, Don Mill, Inc., 1995, p. 106.)

1831: After 1831, Benjamin Maddox was named as a son of William Maddox, formerly of Abbeville, SC, in William’s Tuscaloosa, Alabama, estate papers.  (Source: Joyce Smelley Odom, “Maddox Family,” The Heritage of Abbeville, South Carolina, Don Mill, Inc., 1995, p. 106.)

1850: On the federal census of Fayette County, Alabama, Benjamin Mattax is listed as born in 1801, married to Nancy.  Joyce Smelley Odom claims this is Nancy Williamson, daughter of Thomas Williamson.

1850: On the federal census of Fayette County, Alabama, Lawsin Matocks age 66 and born in SC, William Matocks age 31 and born in SC, and John Matocks age 38 and born in SC, were listed separately with their families on page 29.  (Lawsin is assumed by some researchers to be the brother of Benjamin Maddox (III))

1880: On the federal census of Fayette County, Alabama, Benjamin Madox is listed as born in 1801, married to Nancy.  He was born in SC and his father was born in Maryland.  Nancy was born in SC.

Questions:

Lawsin Matocks’ 1784 birth in SC seems to demonstrate that some Maddoxes arrived in Abbeville, SC, before 1790 – the year we’ve long assessed to be the SC arrival year of Benjamin Maddox (II).

Could Benjamin Maddox #5 have been called “junior” in any of the 1801-1811 records in Laurens County and Abbeville County, SC?

Are you reading this, Cornelius?

03 Tuesday Jul 2012

Posted by in Admin, Sources and links

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My father and I have been researching our ancestors for almost two decades now, but we’ve mostly kept our research to ourselves.  This site will soon share our combined research into the descendants of Cornelius Maddox (ca. 1660-1705), my 7th great grandfather, and one of the first settlers of Maryland.