Thomas Thornton, I. Generation No. 1

THORNTON By Marcine E. Lohman Thomas Thornton, I Generation No. 1 1. Thomas 1 Thornton I was born before 1719 in North Carolina 1, and died before July 16, 1777 in Duplin County, North Carolina. He married Martha Unknown before 1735 in Virginia or North Carolina 2. She died Unknown. Thomas Thornton, the father of John Thornton of my ancestry, has been a mystery for years. Unable to locate any information further back in North Carolina to indicate parentage, I began searching in Virginia for any Thomas who matches him that could have relocated to North Carolina. In researching the "other" Thomas Thornton's in Virginia, most died there which eliminates them. For instance, Thomas Thornton, son of Luke Thornton and Anne died 28 Jun 1729 in Richmond County, Virginia. Thomas Thornton who married Agatha Curtis died before April 1741 in Lancaster County, Virginia. His son Thomas died 1767 in Prince William County, Virginia. Thomas Thornton (wife Martha Boykin) died before April 1762 in Perquimans county, North Carolina (this line were Quakers from Isle of Wight County, VA). Thomas Thornton, son of Luke Thornton II, died circa 1763 in Richmond County, Virginia. Thomas Thornton, son of Daniel Thorneton, I have no death date but only show him in England. His wife was Martha Wilson supposedly (not proven). Thomas Thornton, son of Thomas Thornton and Elizabeth Davis, died before 02 Dec 1771 in Richmond County, Virginia. My best possibility is (1) Thomas Thornton, son of Mark Thornton and Mary Bruce, whom I lose track of in Richmond County, Virginia. (Especially since his brother Mark died in Warren County, NC and his brother John died in Spartanburg County, SC). But other researchers indicate that in 1752 there is a John, Mark and Thomas Thornton listed together on the Lunenburg County Virginia Tithe List. And in 1764 Thomas Thornton owns land on the south side of Smith's Creet, Bute County, NC. The implication is this is Mark's brother Thomas. This would make me believe that they came to North Carolina after 1752 while my Thomas was there as early as 1747 (per land deeds). The other possibility is (2) Thomas Thornton, son of William Thornton of Maryland (Will proved 3 Feb 1738) and Catherine who is unaccounted for. He has a brother John. The Thomas Thornton of Maryland married a Mary and had a son Thomas born 11 Feb 1742. It could also be that my Thomas immigrated to North Carolina and is not related to the Virginia Thornton's at all. It also appears that my Thomas shows up in 1747 in Johnston County shortly after it was divided from Cravens County. This is my earliest record of him. 1

How can my Thomas be in Johnston Co., NC and in Lunenburg Co., VA at the same time? I've not found any slaves, sale of property or anything else belonging to both that make me believe the two Thomas Thornton's are identical persons. Also, the only listing of Martha as his wife comes from John Thornton's bible. I have no concrete proof that the other children listed are actually John's brothers. They merely lived and bought land in the same area of Duplin/Sampson/Johnston County, North Carolina. I also believe that there are three generations of Thomas Thornton's who are being mistaken for each other. (1) Thomas Thornton, d. before July 16, 1777 in Duplin County (Estate sale lists his oldest son Thomas). If Thomas Sr. was at least 18 when he had his first son, Thomas, then he would have to have been born before 1719. (2) Thomas Thornton, Jr., purchased land from Mark Phillips on March 15, 1755 which was witnessed by Thomas Thornton, Sr. I'm told that persons had to be at least 18 years of age to purchase land. This means that Thomas Jr. was born before 1737. (3) Thomas Thornton & wife Rebecca Lee listed on will of Peter Lee, Sr., dated 28 Jan 1804, probated 12 Nov 1804. This Thomas served in the Rev. War I'm told, was born 1755 and died in 1806. I have found no Rev. War records for him. LAND DEEDS: Johnston County, North Carolina Deed Book 1, Page 91 Mark Phillips to Thomas Thornton Dated: June 25 & 26, 1747 Thomas Thornton bought land in Johnston County, North Carolina from Mark Phillips. Johnston County, NC - Quit Rent - 1750, (Original on file at the North Carolina Archives, Raleigh, NC), Patentee, No of Acres, Date of Patent, Last Rent, When paid June 25 & 26. Thomas Thornton, 200, part of a patent of 40 in sd House of Mark Philips, Dated Oct 9th, 1747, part of sd upper survey 24 1/2 at 4, 1:-:- Duplin County, North Carolina Deed Book 2, Page 109 Mark Phillips to Thomas Thornton Dated: 11 December 1750 Trans: Mark Phillips by Thomas Thornton indenture 11 December 1750. Forty pounds paid to Mark Phillips by Thomas Thornton of Johnston County for Plantation or track "in county of foresaid" on one of the branches of Cohary, beginning at a live oak, S-20 E-210 to a gum S-55 E-90 being 200 acres granted to Anthony Cox by his Majesty's Patent June 21, 1746. Witnessed by Jacob Bush and Thomas Thornton. Signed by Mark Phillips. Proved by Bush, October 9, 1751. (150 acres of this land was sold by Thomas Thornton to John Teele in 1756, who then sold the same 150 acres to Herrod Thornton in 1759. Then in 1765 Herrod Thornton sold this same 150 acres to Thomas Thornton. The deed stated "Herrod Thornton had moved from Duplin County to Johnston County (where he resided at the time of this deed) and was selling his former home." Herrod paid 35 pounds in 1759 and received 40 pounds for the 2

same property in 1765. [975.6 P 485, Peterson, Abstracts Sampson - Duplin Deeds, 1750-1774, Pages 10, 56, 96.] On April 11, 1765, Herrod Thornton bought 200 acres of land in Johnston county. [975.6 H 373, Haun, Johnston County, NC abstract books A-1, B-2, etc, 1759-1771, #22.]) The Great Coharie creek presently runs north/south through the center of Sampson County, NC. It begins at the Johnston County, NC border in north Sampson County. Duplin County Deed Book 2, Page 288. Mark Phillips of Cumberland County to Thomas Thornton Jr. Dated: 15 March 1755 Trans: 15 pounds for 500 acres on one of the branches of the Cohary. Land was granted to the said Mark Phillips by patent dated 4 April 1750. Witnesses: Thomas Thornton and Nathaniel Thornton. Deed was proven by the oath of Thomas Thornton Sr. 9 Oct.1755. Duplin County, North Carolina Patent Book 15, Page 439 Dated: 22 October 1762 Trans: Joseph BLACKMAN, 22 October 1762, 200 acres in Duplin County on the East side of great Coharey, joining Samuel SMITH, Thomas THORNTON, and sd. BLACKMAN. Sampson-Duplin County, North Carolina, Deed Book 1, Page 78. Herod Thornton to Thomas Thornton Dated: 23 March 1765 Trans: 40 pounds for 150 acres "on the east side of one of the branches of Cohery," Land was part of a tract granted to Mark Phillips 4 April 1750 and conveyed to Thomas Thornton (Jr.) and from said Thornton to John Teel and from said Teel to Herod Thornton by deed dated 21 February 1759. Herod Thornton had moved from Duplin County to Johnston County (where he resided at the time of this deed) and was selling his former home. Witnesses: Isaac Rush and Thomas Thornton, Sr. Duplin County, North Carolina, Deed Book 5, Page 28. Thomas Thornton to John Thornton (son) Dated: 5 February 1772 Trans: Deed from Thomas Thornton of Duplin county, NC to his son John Thornton for good will and affection. Registered Duplin County. WILLS & ESTATE RECORDS: Estate of Thomas Thornton, dated July 16, 1777, Duplin County, NC, File Number CR 035.508.89 at the State Archives. The document is an inventory of his estate and names Thomas Thornton as his eldest son and administrator. Thomas Thornton, Jr. has signed this document. There is no mention of land or slaves in this document, only his personal belongings and farm animals. He signed his name as Thos. Thornton. 3

Will of Joseph Blackman, Will Book A, Page 49, Duplin County, NC Archives, Raleigh File # CR.035.801.1, dated February 2, 1768, was witnessed by two people named Thomas Thornton. (Both signed their names). [Marcine's Note: In looking at the original Deed, one of the Thomas Thornton's is erased as though it were a duplicate. Therefore, only one Thomas Thornton witnessed this Will]. North Carolina Counties: Craven created in 1712, renamed from Archdale Precinct of Bath County New Hanover created in 1729, from Craven Johnston created in 1746, from Craven Duplin created in 1750, from New Hanover. Orange created in 1752, from Bladen, Granville, and Johnston Dobbs County created in 1758, from Johnston. It later became Glasgow and Lenoir in 1791. Sampson created in 1784, from DuplinThe Great Coharie creek presently runs north/south through the center of Sampson County, NC. It begins at the Johnston County, NC border in north Sampson County. More About Thomas Thornton I: Burial: before July 16, 1777, Duplin County, North Carolina (Estate Inventory dated Jul 16, 1777) Notes for Martha Unknown: I have seen many variations of what Martha's maiden name could have been. They are: Martha P. Hampton, Martha Elizabeth Kenning, Children of Thomas Thornton and Martha Unknown are: + 2 i. Thomas 2 Thornton II, born before 1735 in Duplin County, North Carolina (known as Sampson County after 1784); died 1801 - August 12 1806 in Sampson County, North Carolina. 3 ii. Nathaniel Thornton, born circa 1737 in Duplin County, North Carolina (known as Sampson County after 1784) 3,4 ; died before 1790 in Duplin County, North Carolina (known as Sampson County after 1784) 5. He married Selah (Celia) Unknown circa 1760 in Duplin County, North Carolina (known as Sampson County after 1784); born in North Carolina; died 1779-1790 in Duplin County, North Carolina (known as Sampson County after 1784). Notes for Nathaniel Thornton: This Nathaniel Thornton line is being researched by Elton Edwards, Elton2@triad.rr.com, Donna Sherron, tdsherron@cs.com, Gail Hopkins, gh529@one.net, Ted and Freda Noble, tnoble@mcn.org, Paul & Liz Grimes, plgrimes@bellsouth.net, and Mamie L. Tate, 637 East Florida St., Evansville, IN 47711-4647, mamie@sigecom.net. LAND DEEDS: 4

"Sampson/Duplin County, NC Deeds, Book 3, Page 90. Samuel Eldridge to Nathaniel Thornton. Dated: 2 April 1760. Trans.: 55 pounds for 400 acres "On the East side of great Coheary...Beginning...near the mouth of Peacock Swamp being Thomas Suggs Corner Running along...a former Dividing line between the aforesaid Suggs and William Williams (Williamson?)," Land was part of a tract of 500 acres granted to the said Thomas Suggs by patent dated 13 April 1749 "and the same place whereon the said Eldridge formerly lived," Witnesses: Isaac Bush and Calib Cock." [This same piece of land was sold by Nathaniel & Selah Thornton in 1777 and is the basis by which I list Selah as this Nathaniel's wife.] Sampson/Duplin County, NC Deeds, Book 4, Page 352. Nathaniel Thornton and Selah Thornton to Joseph Vick Dated: 26 November 1777 Trans: 100 pounds for 400 acres "On the East side of great Coheary." Deed mentions Thomas Suggs, William Williamson, and the mouth of Peacock's Swamp. Land was part of a tract of 500 acres granted to the said Thomas Suggs by patent dated 13 April 1749 "and the same plantation where the said Nathaniel Thornton now dwells on." Witnesses: Joseph Rhodes, William Ball, and William Lindsay. Sampson/Duplin County, NC Deeds, Book 4, Page 339. Nathaniel Thornton to John Fulgom Dated: 26 June 1770 Trans: 40 pounds for 150 acres "on the East Side of the great Cohery Creek." Deed mentions "William Willifords line Pattented by William Hagans." Witnesses: Cannon Cason and William McClam. Tax Lists: Thornton, John NC Duplin County, 1783 Thornton, Nathaniel, Sr. NC Duplin County, 1783 Thornton, Thomas, Jr. NC Duplin County, 1783 Thornton, Thomas, Sr. NC Duplin County, 1783 Census Notes for Selah (Celia) Unknown: Craven County, North Carolina Court Records, New Bern District Court Records Folder: 1779 Information: The confession of Joseph KILLETT: Thos HARRISON & Jno CATO robbed Wm. RADFORD of currency & property; HARRISON stole a mare of Hampton SYLLAVAN, and HARRISON and CATO and KILLET & David LAWHORN robbed Peter LEE on a mare and other property and money; he believes that LAWHON sold the mare to Jno HONEYCUTT upon the waters of Deep River; that HARRISON & KATO stole 5

of Jno. EDWARDS a horse & mare & KILLET saw them on the horses and they sold the horses either to Jas. FARR,, Cap. JOESON or Jno. ARTHUR between Jones's Creek & Temptson's Creek; HARRISON stole Jno. Roache's horse and he heard him say he would shoot the horse as soon as he took him to Neuse R.; on Tuesday 27 of this Instant [July 1779-sbg] he saw LAWHON with 2 mares which he said he borow'd the white one of Robt. KEY & the Dark Bay of David RAINER; on Thursday 28th KILLET and LAWHON went to Mr. WINKFIELD where they stole a gray horse which he was to let Jno. COLE have to carry to Salisbury to sell for halves; that he hired Jno. VICK to take his place as soldier and returned him to Liet MCNES under the name of Jno. MITCHEL and as he and VICK were going to Kingston they called at James MILES'S and VICK stole a pair of leather breeches out of MILES'S house; the following persons harbour and assist both thieves and deserters: Saml. STRICKLEN, Tho. DAUGHTY, Andrew KILLET Sen. William KILLET Junr. (Dobbs Co.), Robt. KEY, Kinchen CITCHER, Isaac WHEELER, Jno. MILES, David MILES, Wm. MCLAN, Joel JOINER, Ben JOINER, Geo. LASSITER, Geo. CATO, Jno. BAREFOOT, Peter LEE & Selah THORNTON (Duplin Co.). + 4 iii. Herod Thornton, born before 1741 in Duplin County, North Carolina (known as Sampson County after 1784); died circa 1821 in Oglethorpe County, Georgia. + 5 iv. John Thornton, Sr., born August 31, 1749 in Duplin County, North Carolina (known as Sampson County after 1784); died Aft. 1807 in Johnston County, North Carolina (possibly after 1810). Generation No. 2 2. Thomas 2 Thornton II (Thomas 1 ) was born before 1735 in Duplin County, North Carolina (known as Sampson County after 1784) 6,7, and died 1801 - August 12 1806 in Sampson County, North Carolina 8. He married Joanna Unknown circa 1755 in North Carolina (Duplin or Sampson). She died before 1801 in Sampson County, North Carolina (Not listed in husband's Will) 9. Notes for Thomas Thornton II: This branch is being researched by J. R. Thornton, drthornton@bellsouth.net. I believe that there are three generations of Thomas Thornton's who are being mistaken for each other. (1) Thomas Thornton, d. before July 16, 1777 in Duplin County (Estate sale lists his oldest son Thomas) (2) Thomas Thornton, Jr., purchased land from Mark Phillips on March 15, 1755 which was witnessed by Thomas Thornton, Sr. 6

(3) Thomas Thornton & wife Rebecca Lee listed on will of Peter Lee, Sr., dated 28 Jan 1804, probated 12 Nov 1804. Sampson County Wills (1784-1900) by Elizabeth E. Ross Thomas Thornton Will dated 19 Nov 1801, probated 12 Aug 1806 Son Benjamin Thornton - negro Dinah; 1 shot gun; debts due to me; household furn; wearing appreal; 1/5 part of livestock. Sons Benjamin & Nathaniel Thornton - share my still & worm for their own use of distilling liquor & no more Son Nathaniel Thornton - 1/5 part livestock Son Thomas Thornton - 1/5 part livestock Dau Sally Underwood - 1/5 part livestock Dau Zilpha Lee - 1/5 part livestock Dau Joanna Rosser - 10 shillings Exec: son Nathaniel Thornton, friend Josiah Blackman. Signed Thos. Thornton, Senr. Witnesses: John Mackenzie, Nancy Lee, Herod Thornton Bill of sale of the property of Thomas Thornton, dated August 22, 1806, and signed by Nathaniel Thornton, Sr., as Executor. Final settlement of the estate of Thomas Thornton, dated May 4, 1807, signed by Joab Blackman, Alexander Fleming, and Isaiah Blackman. Recipients were John Rossie (not very clear & Joanna not listed), Nathaniel Thornton, Thomas Thornton, Sarah Underwood, William Lee and wife Zilphah, Benjamin Thornton. CR.o56.501.1, page 139, December 23, 1793, Thomas Thornton, Sr. of Sampson County sold a Negro boy named Ned, 12 years old, to William Lee of Johnston County, N. Carolina. Witnesses John Rosser and Samuel Lee, Jr. CR.056.501.1, page 141, December 23, 1793. Thomas Thornton, Sr. of Sampson County sold a Negro girl named Jemima, about 11 years old, to John Rosser of Johnston County, N. Carolina. Witnesses were William Lee and Samuel Lee, Jr. Sampson/Duplin County Deed Book 2, Page 288. Mark Phillips of Cumberland County to Thomas Thornton Jr. Dated: 15 March 1755 Trans: 15 pounds for 500 acres on one of the branches of the Cohary. Land was granted to the said Mark Phillips by patent dated 4 April 1750. Witnesses: Thomas Thornton and Nathaniel Thornton. Deed was proven by the oath of Thomas Thornton Sr. 9 Oct.1755. Johnston County, NC Deeds 1759-1825 LEWIS BRYAN - deed book V-1, p. 137, 22 May 1779 John Miles of Duplin Co. to David Lee of Johnston Co. for 100 pounds, 100 acres SS Mill Ck. School House Br., Mirey Br. incl. plant. where Lewis Bryan formerly lived in fee simple. Wit: Nathaniel Thornton, Thos. Thornton. Signed: John Miles, Nov. Ct. 1795. JOHN BRYAN - deed book T-1, p. 155, 1 July 1793 Lewis Jernigan, Sr. heir at law of Henry Jernigan, dec. to John Atkinson of Johnston Co. for 250 pounds, plant. Where Anne 7

Jernigan, lately dec. with 3 tracts, being part in Wayne Co. and Johnston Co. (1) 200 acres BS Mill Ck. at the fork of the Neuse River, (2) 240 acres upper side of Mill Ck. adj. Thomas Thornton, William Crafford, Mark Philips line. Granted to Mark Phillips & conv. To Hardy Bryan, to John Bryan, to John Williamson, to Bennet Blackman & willed by Bennet Blackman to his son Stephen Blackman, and conv. By him to Henry Jernigan... (3) 70 acres on Mill Ck. granted to sd Bennet Blackman Wit: Lewis Jernigan,, Jr., J. Warren. Signed: Lewis Jernigan, Nov. Ct. 1793. HARDY BRYAN - deed book T-1, p. 155, 1 July 1793 Lewis Jernigan, Sr. heir at law of Henry Jernigan, dec. to John Atkinson of Johnston Co. for 250 pounds, plant. Where Anne Jernigan, lately dec. with 3 tracts, being part in Wayne Co. and Johnston Co. (1) 200 acres BS Mill Ck. at the fork of the Neuse River, (2) 240 acres upper side of Mill Ck. adj. Thomas Thornton, William Crafford, Mark Philips line. Granted to Mark Phillips & conv. To Hardy Bryan, to John Bryan, to John Williamson, to Bennet Blackman & willed by Bennet Blackman to his son Stephen Blackman, and conv. By him to Henry Jernigan... (3) 70 acres on Mill Ck. granted to sd Bennet Blackman Wit: Lewis Jernigan,, Jr., J. Warren. Signed: Lewis Jernigan, Nov. Ct. 1793. REVOLUTIONARY WAR RECORDS Duplin and Sampson Counties, N.C. By Virginia L. Bizzell and Oscar M. Bizzell NC CONTRIBUTIONS TO GENEALOGY, By Virginia L. Bizzell & Oscar M. Bizzell THORNTON, Thomas, private, N.C. Militia Son of Thomas Thornton Sr. from Johnston county, was born about 1755 in Lunenburg County, Va. Thomas was administrator of the elder Thomas' estate in 1777 in Duplin county. (Marcine's Note: Thomas Thornton, Jr. purchased land from Mark Phillips on March 15, 1755 which was witnessed by Thomas Thornton, Sr. Could the Thomas b. in 1755 actually be Thomas Thornton, III?) Thomas married Rebecca Lee and their children were: 1- Benjamin whose will was probated Feb term Sampson court 1823. 2- Nathaniel whose will went to probate Feb term Sampson court 1822. 3- Thomas III. 4- Joanne who married a Rosser. 5- Sally who married a Mr Underwood, Thomas (it is thought) who served in the Revolution from Virginia and died in Sampson County in 1803. And 6-Zilpha who married a Mr Lee. Thomas Sr made his will 19 Nov 1801. It went to probate 12 Aug 1806. Rebecca had predeceased him. Census of North Carolina, 1784-1787 Johnston County Thomas Thornton 1 white male age 21-60. 1 white males under 21 or over 60. 2 white females of all ages. 0 blacks 8

Thornton, John NC Duplin County, 1783 Thornton, Nathaniel, Sr. NC Duplin County, 1783 Thornton, Thomas, Jr. NC Duplin County, 1783 (Thomas Thornton, III) Thornton, Thomas, Sr. NC Duplin County, 1783 (Thomas Thornton, II) 1790 Sampson County, NC Census, Roll M637_7, Page 52 (handwritten page 125). Listing order: Josiah Blackman Westbrooks Lee Nathaniel THORNTON Thomas THORNTON, Sr. Bud Lee Furnifold Wood Joab Blackman Niel Colbraith Theophilus Autry... 1790 Sampson County, North Carolina; Roll: M637_7; Page: 52 (handwritten page 125); Image: 0414. Thomas Thornton, Sr. Males: 2 over 16 (born before 1774), 0 under 16 Females: 2 Slaves: 8 1800 Sampson County, North Carolina Census, Roll M32_32, Page 500, Image 470. Thomas Thornton Males: 1 age 45 & over (born before 1755) Females: 0 Second Source: http://www.surnames.com/foster/early/cd-150/thornton.txt 1810 Sampson County, North Carolina Census, Pages 160B-161A, Roll M252_42. (Several Thornton's listed next to each other) Thos. Thornton, Senr. White Males: 1-age 10-16 (born 1794-1800); 2-age 16-26 (born 1784-1794); 1-age 26-45 (born 1765-1784); 1-age 45 upwards (born before 1765). White Females: 3-age 16-26 (born 1784-1794); 1-age 45 upwards (born before 1765). 1810 Sampson County, North Carolina Census, Pages 160B-161A, Roll M252_42. Nat. Thornton, Senr. White Males: 3-under age 10 (born after 1800); 2-age 10-16 (born 1794-1800); 2-age 16-26 (born 1784-1794); 1-age 45 upwards (born before 1765). White Females: 1-under age 10 (born after 1800); 2-age 10-16 (born 1794-1800); 2-age 16-26 (born 1784-1794); 1 age 45 upwards (born before 1765). 9

Ben Thornton White Males: 2-under age 10 (born after 1800); 1-age 10-16 (born 1794-1800); 1-age 45 upwards (born before 1765). White Females: 1-under age 10 (born after 1800); 1-age 10-16 (born 1794-1800); 1-age 16-26 (born 1784-1794); 1-age 26-45 (born 1765-1784). Herod Thornton White Males: 1-under age 10 (born after 1800); 1-age 26-45 (born 1765-1784); 2-age 45 upwards (born before 1765). White Females: 2-under age 10 (born after 1800); 1-age 26-45 (born 1765-1784). John Thornton, Jr. White Males: 1-under age 10 (born after 1800); 1-age 26-45 (born 1765-1784). White Females: 2-under age 10 (born after 1800); 2-age 10-16 (born 1794-1800); 1-age 26-45 (born 1765-1784). Needham Thornton White Males: 2-under age 10 (born after 1800); 1-age 16-26 (born 1784-1794); 1-age 26-45 (born 1765-1784). White Females: 2-under age 10 (born after 1800); 2-age 10-16 (born 1794-1800); 1-age 26-45 (born 1765-1784). Felix Thornton White Males: 1-age 10-16 (born 1794-1800); 1-age 16-26 (born 1784-1794); 1-age 45 upwards (born before 1765). White Females: 1-age 45 upwards (born before 1765). Owen Thornton White Males: 1-age 26-45 (born 1765-1784). White Females: 1-age 26-45 (born 1765-1784). More About Thomas Thornton II: Burial: before August 12, 1806, Sampson County, North Carolina (Date of estate sale) Military service: Private in the NC Militia (Revolutionary War) Children of Thomas Thornton and Joanna Unknown are: 6 i. Joanna 3 Thornton, born circa 1755 in Duplin County, North Carolina (known as Sampson County after 1784); died 1801-1806 in Johnston County, North Carolina. She married John Rosser; died Unknown. Notes for Joanna Thornton: Bill of sale of the property of Thomas Thornton, dated August 22, 1806, and signed by Nathaniel Thornton, Sr., as Executor. Final settlement of the estate of Thomas Thornton, dated May 4, 1807, signed by Joab Blackman, Alexander Fleming, and Isaiah Blackman. 10

Recipients were John Rossie (not very clear writing, but appears to be the husband of Joanne Thornton who may be dead by this time since she is not mentioned by name.), Nathaniel Thornton, Thomas Thornton, Sarah Underwood, William Lee and wife Zilphah, Benjamin Thornton. CR.056.501.1, page 141, Decmeber 23, 1793. Thomas Thornton, Sr. of Sampson County sold a Negro girl named Jemima, about 11 years old, to John Rosser of Johnston County, N. Carolina. Witnesses were William Lee and Samuel Lee, Jr. [I believe John Rosser is his son-in-law] In the Will for Thomas Thornton, dated November 19, 1801, he leaves 10 shillings to daughter Joanna. However, by August 22, 1806 when the Will is probated, only John Rosser is listed whereas the other daughters are indicated by name and not their husband. I found a marriage for John Rosser to Elizabeth Pearce dated January 28, 1804 in Johnston County, NC. Either the elder John has remarried or this is a son. Notes for John Rosser: Groom: John Rosser (born circa 1769) Bride: Elizabeth Pearce Marriage Date: 28 Jan 1804 Marriage County: Johnston Marriage State: North Carolina Bond Date: 28 Jan 1804 Bond #: 000069630 Record #: 01 187 Bondsman: John Sanders Witness: E Sanders 1790 Johnston County, North Carolina Census; Roll: M637_7; Image: 0594. John Rosser Males: 1 over age 16; 0 under age 16. Females: 2 Slaves: 1 1820 Johnston County, North Carolina Census; Roll: M33_80; Page: 266; Image: 186. John Rasur Males: 3 under age 10; 1 age 16-18; 1 age 16-26; 1 age 26-45. Females: 3 under age 10; 2 age 10-16; 1 age 26-45; 1 age 45 & over. 2 foreigners not naturalized; 0 slaves. 7 ii. Sally Sarah Thornton, born circa 1755 in Duplin County, North Carolina (known as Sampson County after 1784); died Unknown. She married 11

Thomas Underwood March 10, 1783 in Johnston County, North Carolina 10 ; born circa 1755; died 1803 in Unconfirmed. Notes for Thomas Underwood: 1790 Sampson County, North Carolina Census; Roll: M637_7; Image: 0408. Thomas Underwood Males: 2 over age 16; 2 under age 16. Females: 4 Slaves: 0 1800 Fayetteville, Sampson County, North Carolina;.Roll: 32; Page: 517; Image: 487. Thomas Underwood Males: 4 under age 10 (born 1790-1800); 1 age 10-15 (born 1785-1790); 1 age 16-25 (born 1775-1784); 1 age 45+ (born before 1755). Females: 2 under age 10 (born 1790-1800); 1 age 10-15 (born 1785-1790); 1 age 16-25 (born 1775-1784); 1 age 45+ (born before 1755). Slaves: 0 8 iii. Thomas Thornton III, born circa 1755 in Sampson County, North Carolina; died Aft. May 04, 1807 in North Carolina. He married Rebecca Lee; born 1765 in Duplin County, North Carolina (known as Sampson County after 1784); died Aft. 1804. Notes for Thomas Thornton III: I believe that there are three generations of Thomas Thornton's who are being mistaken for each other. (1) Thomas Thornton, d. before July 16, 1777 in Duplin County (Estate sale lists his oldest son Thomas) (2) Thomas Thornton, Jr. purchased land from Mark Phillips on March 15, 1755 which was witnessed by Thomas Thornton, Sr. (Thomas Jr. had to be at least 18 to buy land). (3) Thomas Thornton & wife Rebecca Lee listed on will of Peter Lee, Sr., dated 28 Jan 1804, probated 12 Nov 1804. Johnston County, North Carolina - Revolutionary War Records Name: THORNTON, Thomas Duty: Militia Born: 1755 Died: 1806 Parents: Thomas Sr. Pension: * Wife: Rebecca Lee 12

1790 Sampson County, NC Census, Roll M637_7, Page 52 (handwritten page 125). Listing order: Josiah Blackman Westbrooks Lee Nathaniel THORNTON Thomas THORNTON, Sr. Bud Lee Furnifold Wood Joab Blackman Niel Colbraith Theophilus Autry... 1790 Sampson County, North Carolina Census, Roll M637_7, Page 52 (Handwritten page 125) Thomas Thornton, Sr. (Thomas Thornton II?) Males: 2 age 16 and above (born before 1774). Females: 2. 1790 Sampson County, North Carolina Census, Roll M637_7, Page 52 (Handwritten page 120) Thomas Thornton, Jr. (Thomas Thornton III?) Males: 1 age 16 and above (born before 1774); 2 under age 16 (born after 1774). Females: 3. 1800 Sampson County, North Carolina Census, Roll M32_32, Page 500, Image 470. Thomas Thornton Free Males: 1 under 10 (born after 1790); 2 age 10-15 (born 1785-1790); 1 age 26-44 (born 1756-1774). Free Females: 2 under 10 (born after 1790); 1 age 10-15 (born 1785-1790); 1 age 26-44 (born 1756-1774). Slaves: 11 1810 Sampson County, North Carolina Census, Roll M252_42, Page 160b, Image 299. Thomas Thornton, Sr. (Thomas Thornton III) Free Males: 1 age 10-15 (born 1795-1800); 2 age 16-25 (born 1785-1794); 1 age 26-44 (born 1766-1784); 1 age 45 & over (born before 1765). Free Females: 3 age 26-44 (born 1766-1784); 1 age 45 & over (born before 1765). Slaves: 10 13

1820 Westbrooks, Sampson County, North Carolina Census; Roll: M33_85; Page: 287; Image: 213. Thomas Thornton Males: 1 age 16-26 (born 1794-1804); 1 age 45+ (born before 1775). Females: 1 age 45+ (born before 1775). + 9 iv. Benjamin Thornton, born 1756-1765 in Duplin County, North Carolina (known as Sampson County after 1784); died March 25, 1815 - May 1823 in Sampson County, North Carolina (Will dated 25 March 1815, Probated May Court 1823). + 10 v. Nathanial Thornton, born 1756-1765 in Newton Grove, Duplin County, North Carolina (known as Sampson County after 1784); died December 24, 1821 - February 1822 in Sampson County, North Carolina (Will Dated 24 Dec 1821, probated Feb 1822). 11 vi. Zilpha Thornton, born 1756-1774 in Duplin County, North Carolina (known as Sampson County after 1784); died Unknown. She married William Lee; born 1756-1774; died Unknown. Notes for Zilpha Thornton: Bill of sale of the property of Thomas Thornton, dated August 22, 1806, and signed by Nathaniel Thornton, Sr., as Executor. Final settlement of the estate of Thomas Thornton, dated May 4, 1807, signed by Joab Blackman, Alexander Fleming, and Isaiah Blackman. Recipients were John Rossie (not very clear writing, but appears to be the husband of Joanne Thornton who may be dead by this time since she is not mentioned by name.), Nathaniel Thornton, Thomas Thornton, Sarah Underwood, William Lee and wife Zilphah, Benjamin Thornton. CR.o56.501.1, page 139, December 23, 1793, Thomas Thornton, Sr. of Sampson County sold a Negro boy named Ned, 12 years old, to William Lee of Johnston County, N. Carolina. Witnesses John Rosser and Samuel Lee, Jr. [I believe Wm. Lee is his son-in-law] Notes for William Lee: 1800 Johnston County, North Carolina; Roll: 31; Page: 772; Image: 722. William Lee Males: 1 under age 10 (born 1790-1800); 1 age 26-44 (born 1756-1774). Females: 1 under age 10 (born 1790-1800); 2 age 10-15 (born 1785-1790); 3 age 16-25 (born 1775-1784); 1 age 26-44 (born 1756-1774); 1 age 45+ (born before 1755). 1800 Johnston County, North Carolina; Roll: 31; Page: 774; Image: 724. William Lee Males: 3 under age 10 (born 1790-1800); 1 age 26-44 (born 1756-1774). 14

Females: 1 under age 10 (born 1790-1800); 1 age 16-25 (born 1775-1784); 1 age 26-44 (born 1756-1774). 1800 Fayetteville, Sampson County, North Carolina;.Roll: 32; Page: 525; Image: 495. William Lee Males: 2 under age 10 (born 1790-1800); 1 age 10-15 (born 1785-1790); 1 age 45+ (born before 1755). Females: 2 under age 10 (born 1790-1800); 2 age 10-15 (born 1785-1790); 1 age 26-44 (born 1756-1774). Slaves: 7 1810 Johnston County, North Carolina; Roll: 40; Page: 245; Image: 544.00. William Lee Males: 3 under age 10 (born 1800-1810); 3 age 10-15 (born 1795-1800); 1 age 26-44 (born 1766-1784). Females: 1 age 10-15 (born 1795-1800); 1 age 26-44 (born 1766-1784). 1820 Johnston, North Carolina; Roll: M33_80; Page: 276; Image: 196. William Lee Males: 1 age 26-45 (born 1775-1794). Females: 1 age 16-26 (born 1775-1794); 1 over age 45 (born before 1775). More About William Lee: Immigration: 1761, North Carolina 11 4. Herod 2 Thornton (Thomas 1 ) was born before 1741 in Duplin County, North Carolina (known as Sampson County after 1784) 12, and died circa 1821 in Oglethorpe County, Georgia 13. He married Ferebe (Hampton or Blackman?) circa 1762 in Duplin County, North Carolina. She was born circa 1744 14, and died Unknown in Oglethorpe County, Georgia. This branch of the family is being researched by Scottie Mabry-Howles, jwh@ponyexpress.net; Nona Thornton, gagenlady@charter.net; and Gwen Sears, Ewgysears@aol.com. (Gwen is from Herod b/1742, Herod 1775, James A, William James who was father of Thomas D. Thornton.) LAND DEEDS: Sampson-Duplin County, North Carolina, Deed Book 3, Page 40. John Teele (Teile) to Herod Thornton Dated: 21 February 1759 Trans: 35 pounds for 150 acres "On the East side of One of the Branches of Coheary it Being the Plantation whereon the said Teele now liveth." Land was "part of a tract of land granted to Thomas Thornton by a Deed from Mark Phillips and from the said Thomas 15

Thornton to the aforesaid John Teele by a Deed bearing date the 11th Day of August 1756." Witnesses: Thomas Thornton and Daniel McClam. Sampson-Duplin County, North Carolina, Deed Book 1, Page 78. Herod Thornton to Thomas Thornton Dated: 23 March 1765 Trans: 40 pounds for 150 acres "on the east side of one of the branches of Cohery," Land was part of a tract granted to Mark Phillips 4 April 1750 and conveyed to Thomas Thornton and from said Thornton to John Teel and from said Teel to Herod Thornton by deed dated 21 February 1759. Herod Thornton had moved from Duplin County to Johnston County (where he resided at the time of this deed) and was selling his former home. Witnesses: Isaac Rush and Thomas Thornton, Sr. Sampson/Duplin County Deeds, Book 5, Page 229. Harrod Thornton (of Johnston County) to Thomas Thornton Dated: 3 March 1769 Trans: 10 pounds for 110 acres "On a Prong of great Cohary called Nixon's Branch Beginning On the East side of aforesaid Nixons Branch at his old Corner pine." Witnesses: John Thornton and Nathaniel Thornton. Oglethorpe County, Georgia Deeds Grantee: Thornton Herod (Jr) Grantor: Harod & Feraby Thornton (etal) Date of Instrument: 2 10 1794 (Feb 10, 1794) Description: Tract of Land on Goosepond Creek Oglethorpe County, Georgia Deeds Grantee: Thornton, John Grantor: Thornton, Harod & Feraby (etal) Date of Instrument: 2 10 1794 (Feb 10, 1794) Description: Tract of Land on Goosepond Creek http://searches.rootsweb.com/cgi-bin/ifetch2?/u1/data/ga+index+11380223682 533+F SOURCE: "Historical Southern Families", Volume XII. Copyright 1968 by Mrs. John Bennett Boddie. Pages 1-89. 975 D2b. "Herod Thornton appears first in 1765, indicating that he was the eldest son and born about 1742-4...wife Feraby." [Marcine's Note: If Herod is a son of Thomas Thornton that died in 1777, he can't be the oldest son as Thomas Thornton's Estate Inventory indicates that Thomas Thornton, Jr. was the eldest son.] Wilkes County, Georgia, Land Grants 1784-1839 Grantee, Book, Acres, Location, Date, Page Thornton Mark, Book DDD, 200 Acres, Coldwater Creek, 1784, Page 427 Thornton Dozier, Book HHH, 200 Acres, Vanns Creek, 1785, Page 27 16

Thornton Samuel, Book HHH, 200 Acres, Ws Little River, 1785, Page 286 Thornton Samuel, Book HHH, 400 Acres, Little River, 1785, Page 308 Thornton William, Book III, 552 Acres,, 1786, Page 778 Thornton Herod, Book LLL, 760 Acres,,1786, Page 43 Thornton, ", 100 Acres, Millstone Creek, 1786, Page 58 Thornton Dread, Book LLL, 200 Acres, Ws Millstone Creek, 1786, Page 44 Thornton Thomas, Book PPP, 200 Acres, Ws Vanns Creek, 1787, Page 41 Thornton Mark, Book PPP, 200 Acres, Coldwater Creek, 1788, Page 198 Thornton Noel & R. Goolsby, BookPPP, 926 Acres, Broad River, 1788, Page 582 Thornton Thomas H., BookTTT, 200 Acres, 1790, Page 239 Thornton Dread, Book TTT, 350 Acres, 1790, Page 487 Thronton Soloman, Book TTT, 86 Acres, 1790, Page 623 Thornton William, Book UUU, 118 Acres, 1791, Page 555 Thornton Herod, Book WWW, 275 Acres, Goosepond Creek, 1792, Page 162 Thornton, ", Book WWW, 100 Acres, 1792, Page 168 Thornton John (Heirs of), BookAAAAA, 200 Acres, 1798, Page 662 Thornton, ", 200 Acres, Ws Little Creek, 1798, Page 659 Notes for Ferebe (Hampton or Blackman?): Just for the record, this is not the Phereby (Lee) McClenny born circa 1790 who married Herod Thornton, son of John Thornton and Agnes Hill. That Phereby and Herod settled in Fayette County, Georgia. This Phereby and Herod settled in Oglethorpe County, Georgia. I have seen this Phereby listed in other people's research as Phereby Hampton and Phereby Blackman. I have found no documents to confirm this. Children of Herod Thornton and Ferebe Blackman?) are: + 12 i. Noel 3 Thornton, born circa 1762 in Duplin County, North Carolina (known as Sampson County after 1784); died before 1807 in Oglethorpe County, Georgia. 13 ii. Owen Thornton, born Aft. 1762 in Duplin County, North Carolina (known as Sampson County after 1784); died circa 1796 in Oglethorpe County, Georgia. 14 iii. Richard Thornton, born circa 1774 in Johnston County, North Carolina; died before January 13, 1808 in Oglethorpe County, Georgia. He married Levina Jennings September 13, 1794 in Oglethorpe County, Georgia 15 ; born 1771 in Oglethorpe County, Georgia; died Unknown in Oglethorpe County, Georgia. More About Richard Thornton: Residence: 1798, Mathews District, Oglethorpe County, Georgia 16 15 iv. John Thornton, born before 1775 in Johnston County, North Carolina; died 1820-1830 in Oglethorpe County, Georgia. Notes for John Thornton: 17

1820 Oglethorpe County, Georgia Census; Roll: M33_7; Page: 193; Image: 202. John Thornton Males: 1 under age 10 (born 1810-1820); 1 age 16-26 (born 1794-1804); 1 age 26-45 (born 1775-1794); 1 age 45 + (born before 1775). Females: 2 under age 10 (born 1810-1820); 1 age 16-26 (born 1794-1804). After 1820, a younger John Thornton shows up - a son perhaps? 16 v. Eldread Thornton, born circa 1775 in Johnston County, North Carolina; died 1812-1817 in Oglethorpe County, Georgia. He married Rachel; born 1762 in Virginia; died November 06, 1852 in Oglethorpe County, Georgia. More About Eldread Thornton: Residence: 1798, Hudspeth District, Oglethorpe County, Georgia 17 17 vi. Zillah Thornton, born circa 1775 in Johnston County, North Carolina; died March 14, 1839 in Lucy, Shelby County, Tennessee. She married Richard Goldsby November 30, 1795 in Oglethorpe County, Georgia 18,19 ; born 1758 in Albemarle County, Virginia; died April 09, 1840 in Lucy, Shelby County, Tennessee. + 18 vii. Herod James Thornton, born 1775-1777 in Johnston County, North Carolina; died 1845-1850 in Claiborne County, Mississippi. 5. John 2 Thornton, Sr. (Thomas 1 ) was born August 31, 1749 in Duplin County, North Carolina (known as Sampson County after 1784) 20, and died Aft. 1807 in Johnston County, North Carolina (possibly after 1810) 21,22. He married Agnes Hill September 01, 1767 in Duplin County, North Carolina (known as Sampson County after 1784) 23,24, daughter of Francis Hill and Elizabeth. She was born March 26, 1746 in Duplin County, North Carolina (known as Sampson County after 1784) 25, and died Aft. 1807 in Johnston County, North Carolina (possibly after 1810) 26,26. Notes for John Thornton, Sr.: This branch is being researched by: Joan Warren, Warren@Dixie-net.com; Willene Jackson, Jetstar111@aol.com; and Marcine Lohman, marcinelohman@comcast.net, Web Page: http://freepages.genealogy.rootsweb.com/~celticlady/default.htm. February 5, 1772 Duplin County, North Carolina Deed Book 5, Page 28 and 29. Thomas Thornton to John Thornton (deed of gift) To all people to whom these presents shall come; I Thomas Thornton do send greetings, Know ye that I Thomas Thornton of Duplin County, North Carolina for and in consideration of love and good will and affection which I have and do bear toward my well beloved son John Thornton of the aforesaid province and county, My now dwelling plantation with all the lands and properties and privileges; together with my new survey of commodities to the same belonging to him. The said John Thornton, his 18

heirs, executors and administrators - without any manner of condition after my decease; February 5, 1772. Witnessed by Joseph Blackman and Barthomew Gainey. Signed by Thomas Thornton. Proved by Oath of Joseph Blackman. Registered Duplin County. July 16, 1777, Dublin County, North Carolina Estates records Cr. 035. 508.65 - an inventory of the Goods and Chattles of the late Thomas Thornton. Dec'd which are to the hands of Thomas Thornton, his eldest son and admire. Signed Thomas Thornton. Estate record cannot be read it is in bad shape. CENSUS: Thornton, John NC Duplin County, 1783 Thornton, Nathaniel, Sr. NC Duplin County, 1783 Thornton, Thomas, Jr. NC Duplin County, 1783 Thornton, Thomas, Sr. NC Duplin County, 1783 1800 Fayetteville, Sampson County, North Carolina Census; Roll: 32; Page: 530; Image: 500. John Thornton Males: 1 age 10-15 (born 1785-1790); 3 age 16-25 (born 1775-1784); 1 age 45 & over (born before 1755). Females: 1 age 26-44 (born 1756-1774); 1 age 45 & over (born before 1755). Slaves: None listed. Source: Duplin\Sampson, N. C. Revolutionary Records, by Virginia and Oscar Bizzell, 1999 THORNTON, John, Private, N.C. Militia No 3376 State of North Carolina 14 Nov. 1781. As auditors for the District of Wilington this is to certifie that John Thornton is allowed the sum of Nine Pounds Two Shillings specie for his services in the militia as returned in pay-roll No 220. Dickson Routledge Lewis Holmes Clk." Soldier was the son of Martha and Thomas Thornton Sr. "No 1135, State of North Carolina 29 March 17 (8?)2. As Auditors for the District of Wilmington, this is to certifie that John Thornton exhibited his claim and was allowed the sum of One Pound Ten Shillings and Six Pence specie. Dickson Routledge Ballard, Clk." John Thornton is listed in the 1820 Pension List (Pages 453 & 551), and 1835 Pension List Vol. II (Page 327). The old John Thornton Bible indicates that he was born August 31, 1749 and was the son of Thomas and Martha Thornton. It also indicates that his wife was Agnes Hill and that her parents were Francis & Elizabeth Hill. --------------------------- Sampson County, North Carolina Deed Book 14, page 308 Jno. Thornton Deed to Felix Thornton 19

This Indenture made this 20th day of March 1807 between Jno. Thornton of the County of Sampson and state of North Carolina of the one part and Felix Thornton of the same county and state of the other part Witnesseth that the said Jno. Thornton Senr. for and in consideration of the sum of five hundred Dollars to him in hand paid by the said Felix Thornton thee receipt where of the said Jno. Doth hereby acknowledge hath given granted bargained and sold alien and confirmed unto the said Herod Thornton his heirs and assigns all them two tracts of land situate lying and being in the County of Sampson and State of aforesaid and on the south side of the Beaver dam swamp one tract includes part of the plantation whereon the said John now lives, beginning at a water oak on the run of the Beaverdam swamp runs thence No 57 wt 166 poles to a water oak in an other of said Hills line thence with said line no 78 poled to the corner a pie thence east 33 poles to Thorntons Branch thence down the branch as it meanders to the mouth thence down the Beaverdam swamp as it meanders to the Beginning. The other tract being part of the porason survey and in the north end of the same beginning at a stake and runs thence west 136 poles to a stake in the William s line thence with said line no 40 poles to the corner a small pine thence with his other line o 54 et 172 poles to a pine lock Lee s corner thence north lee s line se 13 et 31 poled to the corner a pine I Wm. Blackmans line thence with said line so 70 wt 29 poles to the corner a pine thence with his other line so29 et 50 poles to a hack gum thence south to the beginning. The two track containing 231 acres of land be the same ore or less and also all the woods, waters, and water courses and all and every the apperteances thereunto belonging or in anywise appertaining and the serversion and reversions remainder and remainders rent. Issues and profits of the aforesaid lands and premises and every profit thereof and all the estate no? title and interest claims property and demand whatever of the said Felix Thornton of in and to the lands and premises hereby granted. To have and to hold the aforesaid lands and premises with the appurtenances to the said Felix Thornton his heirs ad assigns to the only proper rise and behoof of him the said Felix Thornton his heirs and assigns forever and the said Jno. Thornton Senr. for himself and his heirs the aforesaid and premises and every part thereof against him and his heirs and against the claim or claims of all and every other person whatsoever to the Felix Thornton his heirs and assigns shall and will warrant and forever defend by these presents. In witness thereof the said John Thornton, Senr. hath hereunto set his hand and affixed his seal the date and year first above written sealed and delivered in presence of Joel Blackman, Mary Blackmann, Bennett Hill. Jno. Thornton {Seal} Agnes (her + mark) Thornton {Seal} Sampson County, May Term 1807 Then was the within Deed herein in open Court for registration registered June 1, 1807 O. Holmes Regr. H. Holmes, Cl. Children of John Thornton and Agnes Hill are: 20

19 i. Edith 3 Thornton, born December 17, 1768 in Duplin County, North Carolina (known as Sampson County after 1784) 27 ; died Unknown. 20 ii. John Thornton, Jr., born March 17, 1771 in Duplin County, North Carolina (known as Sampson County after 1784) 27 ; died before November 1823 in Sampson County, North Carolina. He married Martha Hill before December 1800 in Sampson County, North Carolina 28 ; born circa 1770 in North Carolina 29 ; died 1840-1850 in Wayne County, North Carolina. 1800 Sampson County, North Carolina Census, Roll M32_32, Page 498, Image 468. John Thornton Males: 1 age 26 to 44 (born 1756-1774). Females: 1 under age 10 (born after 1790); 1 age 26-44 (born 1756-1774). 1810 Sampson County, North Carolina Census, Pages 160B-161A, Roll M252_42. John Thornton, Jr. White Males: 1-under age 10 (born after 1800); 1-age 26-45 (born 1765-1784). White Females: 2-under age 10 (born after 1800); 2-age 10-16 (born 1794-1800); 1-age 26-45 (born 1765-1784). 1820 Westbrooks, Sampson County, North Carolina Census; Roll: M33_85; Page: 288; Image: 214. Jno. Thornton Males: 1 age 10-16 (born 1804-1810); 1 age 45 + (born before 1775). Females: 2 age 10-16 (born 1804-1810); 3 age 16-26 (born 1794-1804); 1 age 45+ (born before 1775). 1830 Stokes County, North Carolina Census; Roll: 125; Page: 282. John Thornton Males: 2 age 10-15 (born 1815-1820); 1 age 20-30 (born 1800-1810); 1 age 40-50 (born 1780-1790). Females: 1 age 40-50 (born 1780-1790). Slaves: 0 Notes for Martha Hill: I don't have the proof yet, but I suspect that John Thornton, Jr. married Martha Hill and his father, John Thornton, Sr. married Agnes Hill. There is a Martha Thornton living in Wayne County, NC in the 1840 census. The age would be consistant with this Martha. 1830 Capt Smiths District, Wayne County, North Carolina; Roll: 125; Page: 528. 21

Martha Thornton Males: 1 age 20-30 (born 1800-1810). Females: 3 age 20-30 (born 1800-1810); 1 age 50-60 (born 1770-1780). Slaves: 0 21 iii. Michael Thornton, born October 18, 1775 in Duplin County, North Carolina (known as Sampson County after 1784) 30 ; died Unknown. + 22 iv. Herod Thornton, Sr., born February 13, 1778 in Duplin County, North Carolina (known as Sampson County after 1784); died November 08, 1855 in Fayette County, Georgia. 23 v. Anna Thornton, born February 20, 1781 in Duplin County, North Carolina (known as Sampson County after 1784) 30 ; died before 1800 in Sampson County, North Carolina 31. + 24 vi. Felix Thornton, born February 06, 1783 in Duplin County, North Carolina (known as Sampson County after 1784); died May 01, 1857 in Browning, Schuyler County, Illinois. + 25 vii. Owen Thornton, born August 28, 1785 in Sampson County, North Carolina; died 1849-1850 in Johnston County, North Carolina (widow listed on 1850 Johnston County, census with a 1 year old child). Generation No. 3 9. Benjamin 3 Thornton (Thomas 2, Thomas 1 ) was born 1756-1765 in Duplin County, North Carolina (known as Sampson County after 1784), and died March 25, 1815 - May 1823 in Sampson County, North Carolina (Will dated 25 March 1815, Probated May Court 1823) 32. He married Elizabeth in Sampson County, North Carolina. She was born 1765-1774 in North Carolina, and died Aft. March 1815 in Sampson County, North Carolina. Notes for Benjamin Thornton: Sampson County, North Carolina Will Abstracts 1784-1900 Abstracted by Elizabeth E. Ross Benjamin Thornton Will, Sampson County, North Carolina Dated 25 March 1815, Probated May Court 1823 Wife Elizabeth Thornton - rem. property to continue on plant. in hands of wife Elizabeth Thornton during natural life or widowhood; negroes Dinah [**], Moses, Asa, Dice, Picy & Dennis; still, cap & worm; livestock; riding chair; househould furn.; 1 shotgun. If she marry, an equal division to be made between wife and surviving children. Exec. to give last 3 children a tolerable education Son Wright Thornton - 275 ac. land on ES of Craffords Br.; bed & furn.' 2 cows & calves. 2 younger sons Whitfield Thornton & Everit Thornton - 565 ac. land to be equally divided between them after death of wife; 2 cows & calves each; bed & furn. to each when they arrive at age 21 yrs. 22

Dau Polly Robinson - bed & furn.; 2 cows & calves Dau Anna Thornton - bed & furn.; 2 cows & calves when she arrive at age or marrys Dau Sally Thornton - bed & furn.; 2 cows & calves when she arrives at age or marrys Exec: brother Nathaniel Thornton, friend Elexander Flemming, son Right Thornton Wit: Thomas Thornton, Sr., Eldridge Thornton, Handy Thornton. Signed Benja Thornton (** Marcine's Note: negroe Dinah is the same slave he received from his father Thomas listed in his will dated 19 Nov 1801) 1800 Fayetteville, Sampson County, North Carolina Census; Roll: 32; Page: 500; Image: 470 Benjamin Thornton Males: 1 under age 10 (born after 1790); 1 age 26-44 (born 1756-1774). Females: 3 under age 10 (born after 1790); 1 age 26-44 (born 1756-1774). Slaves: 2 1810 Sampson County, North Carolina Census, Pages 160B-161A, Roll M252_42. (Several Thornton's listed next to each other) Thos. Thornton, Senr. White Males: 1-age 10-16; 2-age 16-26; 1-age 26-45; 1-age 45 upwards (born before 1765). White Females: 3-age 16-26; 1-age 45 upwards. 1810 Sampson County, North Carolina Census, Pages 160B-161A, Roll M252_42. Ben Thornton White Males: 2-under age 10 (born after 1800); 1-age 10-16 (born 1794-1800); 1-age 45 upwards (born before 1765). White Females: 1-under age 10 (born after 1800); 1-age 10-16 (born 1794-1800); 1-age 16-26 (born 1784-1794); 1-age 26-45 (born 1765-1784). 1820 Westbrooks, Sampson County, North Carolina Census; Roll: M33_85; Page: 288; Image: 214. Benjamin Thornton Males: 1 age 10-16 (born 1804-1810); 1 age 16-18; 1 age 45+ (born before 1775). Females: 1 age 10-16 (born 1804-1810); 1 age 16-26 (born 1794-1804); 1 age 45+ (born before 1775). Children of Benjamin Thornton and Elizabeth are: 26 i. Anna 4 Thornton, born before 1794 in Sampson County, North Carolina; died Unknown. 27 ii. Polly Thornton, born before 1794 in Sampson County, North Carolina; died Unknown. She married Robinson; died Unknown. + 28 iii. Wright Thornton, born circa 1794 in Sampson County, North Carolina; died Aft. 1850 in Panola County, Mississippi. 29 iv. Everit Thornton, born Aft. 1794 in Sampson County, North Carolina 33 ; died Unknown. 23