A few years ago, I took the 52 Ancestors in 52 Weeks Challenge created by Amy Johnson Crow. Amy is a certified genealogist whose podcasts, webpage, and social media accounts have taught me a lot.
The challenge was “Long Line.” This phrase can be interpreted in many ways, but what came to my mind was, “I come from a long line of water-loving ancestors.” The Wescotts, Chadwicks, Midgetts, and Tilletts all served in the Life-Saving Service (now called the U.S. Coast Guard).
The Logans, Beans, Royces, and Roots grew up along the coast, with family ties ranging from Scotland to New Hampshire and England to Massachusetts. Additionally, the Kunkles, Younkins, Hawks, Rittenhouses, Nices, and Morrisons hail from Germany and the Netherlands, settling in Pennsylvania.
We also have the Wescotts, Chaddicks, Midgetts, Chadwicks, Pughs, Woodhouses, and Jennetts from various places along the East Coast, with roots in England and France. The Cofers, Moodys, Wards, Barhams, Argalls, Davises, Harrisons, and many more emigrated from England to Virginia.
Even my trans-Appalachian pioneer ancestor journeyed from Virginia to Tennessee, eventually settling on Boone’s Creek and the Watauga River. My German, Slovenian, Croatian, and Polish ancestors also lived by the coast, and my connection to Jamestown is coastal as well!
Today, the Logans still reside in Michigan and Pennsylvania, while the Wescotts and Chadwicks are in North Carolina, Jacksonville Beach, and along the Gulf Coast.
I live in Florida and have a deep love for the water—be it the ocean, rivers, or lakes. Now, I understand why. Could we all have a gene for seafaring? According to an article published in the journal, Genetic Determinism Today, researchers at Mystic University in Connecticut have identified a gene linked to a love of the sea.1
My “Long Line” is the enduring connection to the coast, and I wouldn’t have it any other way.
“Just a moment…” genotopia.scienceblog.com/9/scientists-find-gene-for-love-of-the-sea-2/. Accessed 18 Jan 2020 . ↩︎
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Exploring family ancestry can provide fascinating insights into history and migration patterns. One weekend, while delving into my family tree, I discovered my 10th great-grandfather, Nicholas Granger. His journey is particularly noteworthy, as he was approximately 9 years old when he was sent to America. This highlights an important aspect of immigration history: many immigrants were children, and not all arrived with their families.
I exist today because of this brave boy.
(All wording is how it was spelled in colonial records.)
In 1618, the Virginia Company petitioned the London Common Council with a request for assistance in bringing over one hundred poor and vagrant children. This reflects the early colonial efforts to populate Virginia, as well as the social challenges faced by many in England during that time. They asked that one hundred poor and vagrant children, who lie in the streets… having no place of abode nor friends to relieve them, be shipped to the fledgling colony of Jamestown, at the city’s expense.1
Seventy-five boys and twenty-five girls were accordingly transported for running wild in the streets, for being vagrant, on 27 February 1618; though it should be said that none of those apprehended and sent over were formally convicted in the London court system.2
“The Prospect of Bridewell” from John Strype’s An Accurate Edition of Stow’s “A Survey of London” (1720)
Only a few of these children survived in the harsh realities of early Virginian life, including two “Bridewell Boys” called Nathaniel Tatum and Nicholas Granger, who appear to have found some success in their new world. “Bridewell Boys” referred to young boys sent from England to the colonies as indentured servants, most often as a form of punishment for minor crimes. 3
Nicholas married Elizabeth circa 1627. His wife was probably the Elizabeth Gringer, aged 33, who made a deposition in Mar 1634/5 in Northampton County.4
On 13 Aug 1638, Alice Robins was reported as saying that if Nicholas Granger had not come to Virginia, he would have been hanged; but 9-year-olds were not hanged, even in 1619.4
Side note: According to my research, Alice Robins was in the courts frequently. It seems she and her husband liked to cause trouble.
“The deposition of R…this deponent aged…that he goeinge to…Nicholas Granger…the said p…Robins…her one…Robins…wise…Upon…Allice…the wife…whore…also at one…and Crabbing…therefore ordered that said woman for her misdemenoes shal be towed over the Creeke tomorrow at ten of the clock”5
Goodwiffe Robbins’ wife was brought into court for slandering Richard’s wife Mary. Goodwife Robins’ wife Alice received twenty lashes for this offense. It appears that Alice Robbins was a disagreeable person evidenced by the fact that she was quite often in court. For her slanderous offense she was “…lashed to the end of a canoe and towed over the creek”.
In another deposition, she is quoted as saying that Mary Hudson “was as badd as anie salte Bitch.”
Nicholas Granger is documented in the colonial records from the early 17th century. In his will, dated April 1, 1639, Nicholas Harwood acknowledged Goodman Granger for his care and generosity by leaving funds to buy a “calf for Nicholas Granger, my godson.”6
Such bequests were common in wills of the time, underscoring the importance of community and familial support within colonial society. On August 3, 1640, Nicholas Granger was granted a certificate for 200 acres of land, with his wife, Elizabeth, named as one of the headrights—this system allowed landowners to claim land based on the number of people they transported to the colonies.
On October 1, 1647, in Northampton County, Nicholas Granger transferred a heifer to his daughter, Christian Granger, and this transaction was witnessed by Henry Armitradinge, who was involved in similar transactions on the same day, likely in preparation for marriage. Christian married Henry Armitradinge later that year, indicating that land ownership and livestock, like a heifer, played a significant role in family wealth and social standing.
Nicholas Granger patented land on September 20, 1647, in Northampton County, Virginia. He initially received a patent for 350 acres near the head of Nassawattocks Creek, adjacent to Stephen Horsey’s property; however, this land was later found to be already part of a patent held by Colonel Francis Yeardley and was subsequently lost. He also had another patent for 350 acres along Pungoteague River and Pocomeck Creek, which he assigned to Nicholas Waddilow, as recorded in Waddilow’s patent on April 2, 1655.
On March 25, 1651, Nicholas Granger took the oath of allegiance, promising loyalty to the Commonwealth of England as it was established without a king or House of Lords. This reflects the political shifts of the time and the complexities of allegiance during a period of significant change in England’s governance. At that time, he was officially recorded as Nicholas Granger, linking his personal story to the broader tapestry of early American history.
Nicholas died after 25 March 1651 in Northampton County, Virginia.
My line stems from Nicholas’ son, Nicholas (abt. 1627).
Through exploring the life of Nicholas Granger, we gain a better understanding of the struggles and triumphs of early immigrants to America, as well as the importance of family legacy and community in shaping our histories.
Citations
Theodore K. Rabb, “Sandys, Sir Edwin (1561–1629. ↩︎
Records of Individuals ordered to be sent to Virginia, ca. 1618-37 from Bridewell Royal Hospital↩︎
Accession 26237, Library of Virginia: “Records of Individuals ordered to be sent to Virginia, ca. 1618-37↩︎
John Frederick Dorman, Adventurers of Purse and Person, Virginia, 1607-1624/5, p. 68 and p. 119 (Granger Family). ↩︎
Have you ever thought about how AI might have played a role in your family history research—perhaps without you even noticing? It’s possible that artificial intelligence (AI) has been quietly aiding your family history research all along! It’s fascinating to consider!
AI is revolutionizing the field of genealogy, and you might be surprised by how often you’ve encountered it. For instance, popular platforms like Ancestry.com leverage AI to recommend relevant records (those leafy “hints.”) and unearth potential matches in other family trees. Platforms like 23andMe, AncestryDNA, and MyHeritage use AI to identify potential relatives based on shared DNA.
MyHeritage even offers AI Biographer™, a tool that generates Wikipedia-style biographies of your ancestors using historical records and information from your family tree.
But AI’s contributions extend far beyond these well-known examples. Even if you’re a beginner in genealogy research, several AI tools can become your research companions:
Versatility Personified: ChatGPT – This multifaceted AI tackles general genealogy questions and assists you in crafting effective research strategies.
Your Genealogical Gemini: Google’s Gemini – Similar to ChatGPT, Gemini offers a helping hand with your genealogical inquiries.
The Genealogical Detective, Assistant, and Librarian: Perplexity – Don’t let the name intimidate you! Perplexity is another AI platform that can be your one-stop shop for family history research queries.
These AI tools act as virtual research assistants, prompting you with questions and guiding you through various aspects of genealogy. Additionally, there are AI tools designed specifically for genealogy research:
Open GeneaGPT: Your AI Research Assistant – Open GeneaGPT is a tailor-made AI assistant for family history researchers and genealogists.
Genealogy Eyes: Unveiling the Stories Hidden in Your Heirlooms – Genealogy Eyes helps you analyze images of documents, headstones, and other genealogical artifacts.
Tips to Kickstart Your AI-Powered Genealogy Journey
Embrace the Power of Questions: Begin by using AI platforms to ask basic questions about genealogical research methods.
AI-Driven Brainstorming: Let AI help you generate new ideas for uncovering information about your ancestors.
Demystifying Genealogy with AI: Don’t hesitate to ask AI to explain unfamiliar genealogical terms or concepts.
AI as Your Historical Interpreter: Utilize AI to gain insights into historical documents or understand the context of the time periods you’re researching.
While AI is a powerful tool, it’s crucial to remember that it should complement, not replace, traditional research methods. Always verify the information gleaned from AI with primary sources to ensure the accuracy of your family history.
I hope this revamped blog post, infused with the power of AI, empowers you to delve deeper into your family’s rich tapestry!
36 days. That’s all it took for me to dive headfirst into someone else’s family tree—and spark a passion that would change my life.
It all began one October evening, when a friend shared stories from her trip to the Carolina Renaissance Festival in North Carolina. Among her souvenirs was a family crest bearing her maiden name. Knowing my love for genealogy, she asked the question that sparked it all: “Is this real?” She hoped to gift something meaningful to her dad for Christmas, and her curiosity opened the door for me to explore her roots.
I offered to research her family—for free. As part of my five-year plan to start a genealogy business, I needed experience digging into someone else’s lineage. She agreed, and the adventure began. That was in 2018.
A Journey Through Time
My friend’s knowledge of her family tree extended to her great-grandparents, along with a few stories passed down through the generations. But as I started piecing together the puzzle, her family’s history unfolded like a novel.
On her father’s paternal line, I quickly found myself tracing branches to France. Her 3rd great-grandfather arrived in New Orleans before 1843, where he married. His father, her 4th great-grandfather, was born in Languemburg, de la Meurthe, France, and tragically died in a train accident.
Her other 4th great-grandfather’s story read like an epic escape. A wealthy planter in Saint-Domingue (now Haiti), he fled to Louisiana during the Haitian Revolution, aided by faithful slaves who ensured his family’s safety. The French government compensated him for his losses until his death.
On her father’s maternal side, the trail led to France and Germany. Though I could trace her great-grandmother’s line extensively, her paternal line only reached as far as Germany.
Then came the jackpot: her grandmother’s maternal line.
Swedish Roots and Scottish Legacies
Her 3rd great-grandfather Green, born in Mississippi, was the son of Lundgren, a Swedish immigrant who arrived in America in 1836. This line stretched back ten generations in Sweden, rooted in the region of Gotland.
Green’s mother was a Cameron, whose paternal line reached back to her 7th great-grandfather in Scotland. This branch also uncovered Civil War service, land ownership in Mississippi, and connections to the Stanford family, who helped colonize Maryland.
A Stanford ancestor patented a plantation in 1695, fought in the Revolutionary War, and endured six months aboard the infamous British prison ship Jersey. His son continued the family’s legacy, serving in the War of 1812 and settling in Georgia.
A Gift to Remember
As Christmas approached, I compiled my research onto a flash drive and handed it over to my friend. It felt like giving away a piece of myself—but I couldn’t help but sneak peeks at her tree now and then to uncover even more.
So, was the crest she bought at the Renaissance Festival truly hers? A crest with her family name exists, but whether it ties directly to her lineage remains a mystery. Perhaps her new “family historian” will be the one to find out.
Closing Thoughts
This project wasn’t just about tracing names and dates; it was about discovering stories that connect us to the past. It was the spark that led me to start my family history business, Loganalogy, and share the joy of uncovering ancestors’ stories with others.
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Every family has its matriarchs—women whose lives may feel like distant whispers of the past but whose legacies are woven into the fabric of who we are today. Even though I did not know her, it feels like one of those women is Miriam Baylor Cofer, or “Minnie,” as she was lovingly called. Minnie was my great-great-grandmother, the mother of Ruby Chapman Wescott, my great-grandmother. While her life ended far too soon, it was filled with resilience, music, and family—a story that spans generations and paints a vivid picture of life in Virginia during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
A Childhood Full of Family and Loss
Born in 1867, Minnie grew up in a bustling household. She was the second of eight children in the Cofer family, though tragedy struck early when her older brother passed away at the tender age of seven. Despite this loss, the Cofer family thrived in Virginia, becoming one of the most prolific families in the region.
When Minnie was just three years old, she lived at homein Norfolk, Virginia. Imagine this: a home filled to the brim with sixteen people—her parents, four siblings, grandmother, and six aunts and uncles. The house, valued at $5,400 at the time (the equivalent of nearly $95,000 today), must have been lively and chaotic, filled with the sounds of family life. By the time Minnie turned 11, the Cofer family had moved out of the Davis home and into 61 Queen Street in Norfolk (now Portsmouth) where Minnie grew up alongside her four surviving siblings. That address no longer exists, but I believe it was near where the Court Street Baptist Church is now. (See map below.)
Love, Marriage, and Music
Three days before for twentieth birthday, Minnie married Isaac Burns Chapman in 1887, beginning a new chapter in her life. Together, they had seven children, including my great-grandmother Ruby. Their home was filled with the warmth of music and family. Ruby fondly recalled that both her parents had beautiful alto voices. Isaac, a talented string player in a band during his youth, would accompany Minnie, who played the organ at Court Street Baptist Church in Portsmouth. Singing became part of their family’s nightly tradition—a legacy of harmony passed down through the generations.
A Life Cut Short
Minnie’s life, though vibrant, was tragically brief. She passed away in 1916 at the age of 49 from cancer of the uterus. She is buried at Cedar Grove Cemetery in Norfolk, Virginia, a place where so many family stories converge.
Remembering Minnie: A Look Through Photos
The photos we have of Minnie give us a glimpse into her personality and presence. One, dated around 1887, shows Minnie at about 19 years old (though, to me, she appears older than that). In another photo, taken in 1916—the year of her death—Minnie is seen in a black dress standing beside a woman identified as “Mrs. Halyburton,” another prominent Virginia name. I often noticed that name in many of Ruby’s photos. I believe Mrs. Halyburton became a mother figure in Ruby’s life, as she appears in many pictures even after Ruby was married.
These photos offer more than just a visual record; they’re windows into her world, one that was rooted in Virginia’s history and her family’s enduring bonds.
The Legacy of the Cofer Family
Minnie’s story reminds us of the power of family, music, and resilience. From her crowded childhood home in Norfolk to her years as a wife, mother, and organist, she left behind a legacy of love and creativity. The Cofer name, deeply rooted in Virginia, represents a lineage of strength that continues to echo in the lives of her descendants.
Walking in Minnie’s footsteps—through stories, addresses, and photographs—gives me a sense of connection to the past. Her life, though distant in time, feels alive in the values and traditions she passed down. Whether it’s through the music of her home, the bonds of her family, or the resilience she demonstrated, Minnie remains an inspiring figure in my family tree.
The three pictures below are the same. See the description for each.
Based on the dress style, high collar, and the sepia photograph’s format, this picture likely dates between 1880 and 1895. The visible brooch or floral embellishment, along with earrings, adds a personal, decorative touch, indicating she was dressed for a special occasion. The chain or ribbon with a small crucifix may have symbolic significance or simply reflect the style of the period. (analysis of photo by ChatGPT.) Since this was taken about 1887, I think it was a professional photograph taken before she was married in July of 1887 at the age of 19.
Miriam Baylor Cofer -circa 1887 (the year she was married) according to the back of the photo. Original scanned photo.
Same photo with enhancement made by MyHeritage Photo Restorer- 24 Nov 2024.
Same photo with Enhanced Color Restored feature by MyHeritage- 24 Nov 2024
Court Street Baptist Church abt. 1762- Courtesy of the Portsmouth Public Library
1908
Norfolk & Portsmouth, Virginia 1873-Drie, C. N. Norfolk & Portsmouth, Virginia. [N.P, 1873] Map. Retrieved from the Library of Congress, www.loc.gov/item/75696645/. In the 1880 census they lived on Queen, the next street the census taker visited was Bute.
Minnie is the woman in the dark black dress in both photos below. The photos say about 1916, which is the year she died. The other woman is “Mrs. Halyburton,” another big name in Virginia. Unfortunately, the photos do not say where these were taken. They lived in Bond Avenue and Granville Avenue, the Brambleton area of Virginia today. From what I can find through Google, they lived where the railroad tracks are now in the area.
Final Thoughts
As I look back on the life of Minnie Baylor Cofer, I feel a profound sense of gratitude for the stories that have been preserved and the family ties that continue to connect us. Her life may have ended over a century ago, but her legacy still sings in the voices of her descendants. To me, she will always be more than a name in a family tree—she’s a symbol of strength and love.
While the majority of the writing is my own, I used ChatGPT to help with some minor rewrites and edits.
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As family historians, we’re no strangers to challenges. Our work requires patience and dedication, often navigating through countless records in search of a missing piece to the puzzle. While it’s all part of the journey, there are a few common mistakes and oversights that can hinder progress for beginners and seasoned researchers alike. Let’s explore some of these pitfalls and how to sidestep them, making your genealogy journey smoother and more accurate.
1) Unsourced Family Trees One of the biggest challenges in online research is coming across family trees that lack sources. Without citations, notes, or records to back up the information, it becomes nearly impossible to verify the accuracy of those entries. To avoid this, always make a habit of adding sources—whether it’s a census record, a photo, or even a story passed down from relatives. It helps others (and yourself) to understand where the information originated.
2) Incoherent Information Mistakes happen, but spotting impossible scenarios—like a person giving birth after their death—can feel confusing. Double-checking dates and cross-referencing records can prevent these errors from slipping in. Always remember, consistency is key in genealogy.
3) Duplicate Children When researching large families, especially in the 1800s, it’s important to verify children’s birth dates and names. Variations in nicknames across records (like Maggie for Margaret or Polly for Mary) can cause confusion, so be mindful of these when reviewing census records.
4) Unresponsive Genealogy Contacts It’s always exciting to connect with distant relatives online, but don’t be disheartened if you don’t get an immediate response. While it can be frustrating, remember that people may have busy schedules. A gentle follow-up message is okay, and patience is key.
5) Recycling Unverified Facts It’s tempting to adopt information from other family trees, but it’s important to verify facts before incorporating them into your own. Always take a moment to check records and sources; this will ensure that your family tree remains accurate and reliable.
6) Unlabeled Photos Photographs of ancestors can be priceless treasures, but unlabeled images can cause confusion. When sharing family photos, be sure to include as much detail as possible—dates, names, and locations. Even if some details are unclear, adding context helps future researchers.
7) Irrelevant Records It’s easy to misinterpret a record that seems to match an ancestor, but always consider the geographical and chronological context. If your ancestor spent their life in one place, it’s unlikely they have records in a far-off country without explanation. Keep track of family movements to avoid such missteps.
8) Mythical Surname Coats-of-Arms Be cautious when it comes to purchasing coats-of-arms tied to your surname. Remember, coats-of-arms are granted to specific individuals, not entire families. It’s always worth researching the actual lineage behind such claims.
Genealogy is an exciting adventure, filled with moments of discovery and connection. While it’s natural to encounter challenges along the way, approaching your research with a discerning eye and a commitment to accuracy will ensure that the stories you uncover are as authentic as the ancestors who lived them. Whether you’re just starting out or diving deeper, keeping these common pitfalls in mind will help make your family history journey all the more rewarding.
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Matthew Midyett – Our Colonial Pioneer from North Carolina – My 8th great-grandfather.
Legend has it that Matthew was shipwrecked on Bodies Island in North Carolina and chose to settle there.
Bodie Island, originally “Body Island,” is reportedly named after a family (Robert Boddy/Boddie) who owned the land. Still, folklore would say that the name resulted from the many shipwrecked bodies that washed ashore.
It appears that the Midyett (Now Midgett or Midgette) line came from France.
Huguenot refugees landing at Dover, from the bicentenary commemorative issue of The Graphic, 1885. Huguenot Library
FraNCe: The French Heritage of North Carolina Paperback – September 15, 2016
The map legend by H.Moll, geographer, reads: The English Claim the property of Carolina from Lat 29 & c degrees as part of Cabot’s Discoveries who set out from Bristol in 1498,at the charge of King Henry ye 7th but they did not take possession of that country till King Charles the ll’s time in 1663 who granted a patent to divers persons to plant all the territories within the North Lat of 36 deg & so west in a direct line to the South Sea.
Midyett: Midyett families, originally from Normandy, France, were early inhabitants of Bodie Island and the Outer Banks in the late 1600s. “Many Midyett girls married sailors of Black Beard’s three ships. The name was spelled different ways: Midyett, Midyette, Midgett, Midgette, but no matter how you spell it, they all came from Matthew Midyett who landed at Bodie Island, NC around 1600. He was a ship captain and was shipwrecked off the coast of the outer banks.”–Donald Midyett. Midyetts helped start the US Coast Guard by establishing life-saving stations on the Outer Banks. Some of the family found their way to Beaufort by 1850.1
William Keith Midgette recently stated on a Facebook group “I recently learned that the South River area of which London Towne was a part where Matthew Midyett lived from the late 1600’s to 1708 was settled by Huguenots, Quakers, and Scottish dissenters, so perhaps the hypothesis that the Midyett’s or Midiate’s were originally Huguenots has some possibilities.”
Miles Midgette “From information I have gathered over the years, it is entirely likely that Matthew Midgett’s forebears were Huguenots. The name originates near Marville (now France) which was part of the Spanish Netherlands for several hundred years and was a hotbed for Protestant fervor. Perhaps a million Protestants fled that region when the French took it over, many ending up in Kent, England as did the Midgett forebears. The name is Spanish for “son of the Archangel Michael”
William Keith Midgette “My hypothesis is that Matthew Midyett’s parents came from the Devon, Exeter, England area based upon the number of Midyett/Midiatt/Mediate’s I found in records of that area from 1500’s to the 1600’s. Whether they originally came from France or Netherlands, I can’t say yet until the link tieing Matthew to his parents is postiviely proven and them to England, but the info that Miles posted is completely plausible.”
Kay Lynn Sheppard is a Midgett by birth and has dedicated her career to genealogy by gathering every document related to Midgett or Midyett history she can find. She has been an invaluable resource for me and countless others. I’m fortunate to stay in regular contact with her.
Regrettably, there is an article that mentions the Thomas Midyett Bible, but Kay discovered that it is a hoax; it never actually existed. Additionally, the article claimed knowing the names of Matthew parents, yet, as Kay points out, there is “not one shred of evidence” to support that assertion. Lastly, while she possesses a copy of the Matthew Midyett will, the original is currently missing from the North Carolina State Archives. It’s truly unfortunate that individuals would take away from our heritage in this way. The archives are meant for everyone to explore and utilize!
Kay generously provided her ten pages of notes, which also include some from Nancy Frey. Please note that I do not possess copies of all the court records. I’ll include the website or source for the ones I’ve been able to find.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Matthew was born on April 10, 1676, and passed away on December 25, 1734, Christmas Day, on Bodies Island in what was once Currituck County, North Carolina. He wed Judith “Judy” White on July 13, 1702, in Anne Arundel County, Maryland. Judith, the daughter of Samuel White—evidenced by his will—was born on August 3, 1681, in Anne Arundel County and died on September 26, 1744, on Bodies Island. (The White family is reportedly traceable back to Jamestown, which I will elaborate on in a future blog post once I have the evidence.)
In 1703, court records reveal that Matthew is a ship’s carpenter. The notes indicate that his father was also a boatswain, but there are no existing records regarding his parents to date. During the January court session, William Killburne entered into an apprenticeship with Matthew Midiate to learn the trade of ship’s carpenter.
“Comes hereunto court Mr. Charles Killburne and Rachel Freeborne and bring William Killburne, son-in-law to said Rachel and nephew to said Charles, into court and binds the said William, with his consent, to one, Matthew Midiate, shipcarpenter, to serve the said Matthew till he comes to the age of one and twenty years, being now by the court adjudged to be sixteen years of age the nineteenth day of march next. In consideration whereof the said Matthew undertakes and bindeth himself to do his utmost endeavour to teach the said William Killburne the art or mastery of a ship carpenter and boatwright and also to teach him to read and write so well as he can teach him, and in all other things to do by the said William as it is usual for such masters to do by orphans in the county of Ann Arundel.” 2
In June 1703, Mathew Midget recorded his livestock “mark,” which indicated that his cattle had “a crop and two slips in the left ear.” During this period, livestock was allowed to roam freely and graze. The sole method to distinguish one farmer’s animals from another’s was through the use of these registered ear marks.3
In 1703, Judith’s father passed away, bequeathing 10 pounds sterling to Judith and Matthew Midgett in his will.4
March Court 1704
William Bateman vs Matthew Midiate
Command was given to the Sheriff of Ann Arundel County that he should take Matthew Midiate, late of Anne Arundel County, shipwright, if he should be found in this bailiwick and should him safekeep so that he should have his body before the justices of her majesties county court to be held at Annapolis, the second Tuesday of March then next, to answer unto William Bateman of a plea of trespass upon the case etc.
On which second Tuesday of March viz.–the fourteenth of the same month A.D. 1704 comes the said sheriff and makes return that he has taken the body of the said Matthew as commanded etc.
Whereon the said William complains as follows viz.–Matthew Midiate Of Ann Arundel County, shipwright, was attached to answer unto William Bateman of a plea of trespass upon the case.
Whereupon the said William by Clement Davies, his attorney, complained that whereas the said Matthew Midiate at London Town in Ann Arundel County, within the jurisdiction of this court, the 24th day of February in the year 1699 stood indebted to the said William Bateman in the sum of one pound and ten shillings of lawful money, by the particular account herewith brought into court may appear, and the said Matthew being so indebted afterwards, that is to say, the 24th day of February in the year aforesaid, at the county aforesaid, in consideration thereof, did assume upon himself and to the said William Bateman, did then and now, faithfully promise, that he, the said Matthew Midiate, the said sum of one pound and ten shillings to the said William Bateman when thereunto required would well and truly consent and pay, nevertheless the said Matthew Midiate his promise and assumption aforesaid not at all regarding but contriving and fraudentally intending him, the said William Bateman in this behalf craftily and subtley to devise and defraud the aforesaid sum of one pound and ten shillings to the said William Bateman although often knew unto required viz.– the day, year and place last mentioned and at divers times and places knew he hath not paid but the same to pay and content or satisfy to the said William Bateman hath denied and refused and will and doth deny and refuse to the damage of the said William Bateman there paid and sent of lawful money and thereof he brings this suit.
Pledge & John Doe & Richard Roe
June Court 1704
Mathew Midiate due to William Bateman——1 pound 10 shilling for cakes & beer & punch & wine
Matthew Midiate has his attorney, W. Bladen, defend the charges brought against him by William Bateman. The justices of the Court award Mathew Midiate the sum of_____(not specified)__ pounds of tobacco for his costs & charges because William Bateman’s charges proved false.
August Court 1705
Matthew Midiate vs Charles Linthicum
This writ and one other “countermanded by the plaintiffs”
Matthew was again in trouble in January of 1707 along with Thomas MacNamara for breaking into a tobacco barn and stealing one sheep. In June Matthew posted bond for his later appearance, but he did not appear and the bond was forfeited.
In June of 1708, Charles Kilburne sued Matthew for debt. Matthew was not found “in the bailiwick” whereupon the court ordered Matthew’s goods attached. That indeed got Matthew’s attention. Matthew was in North Carolina by this time and appointed Richard Johnson and William Nicholson to represent him in the Kilburne suit. Kilburne promptly sued both men as well as Midgett.
Although Matthew had left Maryland in 1707 or 1708, in 1716 Matthew was ordered to pay William Bladen 24 pounds of tobacco for representing him in the 1704 suit. William was apparently a very patient man.
The move to North Carolina removed Matthew from the Queen’s jurisdiction and put him under the much looser jurisdiction of the Lord’s Proprietors.
In 1712, Matthew was living in Chowan County where he became a bit of a hero when he apprehended a brigantine belonging to Emanuel Low who had fired upon then Governor Edward Hyde and his supporters:
July 12, 1712. — Upon petition of Matthew Midgett, praying he may be allowed fifty pounds, pursuant to a proclamation for apprehending Emanuel Low, which is to be allowed out of his estate if convicted : Emanuel Low being apprehended and brought before this board, for stirring up sedition and rebellion against this government, and endeavoring to subvert the same, was committed to the custody of the provost marshal therefor.5
Not long after that, in February 1712, Matthew received his first land patent on the south side of Albemarle Sound, 341 acres, land commonly known as White Oak Island, “joining the sound, the swamp and the pocoson and the great swamp”. This had been surveyed by Jonathan Bateman who assigned it to Matthew. 6
State Archives of North Carolina
In April of 1712, Matthew received another 360 acres on the northwest side of the Alligator Creek in Chowan precinct of Pasquotank County. This grant was signed by Governor Hyde.
State Archives of North Carolina
In 1713, Matthew sat on a grand jury.
However, later in 1713, Matthew was once again in trouble, accused of underhandedly making a patent on another man’s land, knowing that the man had cleared the land but had not gotten the papers filed. Anthony Alexander asked to have Matthew’s right to the land forfeited. The jury ordered that Anthony be granted the patent to the land and that Matthew could “take up any vacant land if there is any left”. 7
Matthew and Emanuel Low appeared to continue their discord. In volume 2 of the Colonial records, starting in 1713, Emanuel Low charged Matthew with breaking into his storehouse during Edward Hyde’s governorship and stealing some rum and sugar. The board concluded that Low’s complaint was “entirely scandalous, damaging, seditious, and untrue.” Perhaps Emanuel never fully forgave Matthew for the incident in 1711.
Mr. Emanuel Low prefering a petition to this board ag’ Mathew Mid-gett therein setting forth that y” said Midgett had feloniously broke open his store house in the time when the Hon ble Edw a Hyde was Gov r hereand had take thereout a quantity of Rum & Sugar &c and pray’s y e Gov rwarr’ to appehend him therefore and it appearing to this board that y”What y* said Midgett did in that regard was done by y° authority of theGovernment and that y” Said Low has been considered & satisfied for y esame. Therefore It is the opinion of this board that y e Same Petition isaltogether’ Scandolous Infamous Seditious and false And therefore it isordered that y” Same be & is hereby rejected as Such.8
In 1717 he patented 200 acres in Currituck Precinct on the sand banks, south of Roanoke Inlet. See below:
State Archives of North Carolina
In 1721, Matthew and Samuel Midget were witnesses to a deed from Thomas Peartree to John Fitzpatrick. Matthew signed his name, while Samuel used a mark. Kay is uncertain about the identity of this Samuel Midgett. However, it’s likely that Matthew’s son Samuel, who was born around 1704 and would have been over 16 at the time, could have served as a witness if there were no other adults present.
In 1722, Matthew patents another 80 acres on “an island commonly called Bodyes Island, between Roanoke Inlet and his former survey”.
State Archives of North Carolina
In 1727, he patented an additional 1,900 acres on Cow and Bodyes Island, encompassing the entire length of nine and a half miles with a width of 100 poles. This area is described as “the seawall and all the marshland adjacent to it, commonly referred to as Cow and Bodyes Island… with a total length of 9.5 miles and an average width of 100 poles.”
State Archives of North Carolina
On December 21st, 1834 Matthew made his will.
In The Name Of God Amen: ye 21st day of December Anno 1734.
I, Mathew MIDYETT, of Body Island that is County of Albemarle being very sick and weak of body but of trew and perfect mind and memory thanks be to the almighty god for it and calling to mind the mortality of my body that it is appointed for all men wonce to die and do therefore put my last will and testament in wrightin therfore and first of all I give and recommend my Soul into the hand of the almity God that gave it and for my body I commend unto the Earth to be buried in a Christian like manner att the Discression of my Exetrs nothing doubting But att the general Resurrection I Shall Resive the Same — and foust [first] of my Disier is that all my lawfull depts be paid and as touching of my worly estate I give as in maner and forme following: Imprimis
Item: I give and bequeth unto my eldest son Samuel MIDYETT one hundred Eakers of Land lying and being on the South Side of Albemarle Sound alway Call his one [own] to him his heirs and asigns for Ever and futhermor I give unto my son Samuel sail cloth anouf to furnish his canneua [canoe] with one Sute of sails to him and his heirs for Ever.
Item I give and bequeth unto my son John MIDYETT one grate pereoarger and and [sic] sails that belong to her and a Small Cornua [canoe] that towes after her to him and his heirs and asines for Ever and fouthermore I give my son John one hamack on this Iland that has always gon by the name of Johns hamack for a prilavage of a stock to him and his heirs and assines.
Item I give and bequeth unto my son Josepth MIDYETT that part of the Iland whereon he now lives to him and his heairs or asines for Ever and Like wise and I give to my son Josepth one old connue called The Seaflower to him his heirs or asines.
Item I give and bequeth unto my Defters ann MIDYETT Cateran MIDYETT Judy MIDYETT, and Dinah MIDYETT Each and Every one of them a fether bed to them and their hears or asins for Ever.
Item I give and bequeth to my son,Samuel MIDYETT that part of the Iland whereon he now lives to him his heirs or asines for Ever and I give to my youngest Daufters Each of them the foust [first] two maire colts that is raised out of my stock to them and their heairs for Ever.
Item I give and bequeth to my sons Marthew MIDYETT and Thos MIDYETT this parte of Iland Wheron I now live from the Dugs Southely to them ther hears an their asines for Ever.
Item: I give my well beloved wife and my two Sons Marthew and Thomas and my younges Doafter Diner the priveleg of the Sea Side & Likwise my will and Desire is that my Son Marthew Shall not have the liberty of selling any part of the Land without he Should Com to his Sanses. Like wise I Give and bequeth to my well be Loved wife and my two Sons Marthew and Thomas and my Daufter Diner all the Rest of my movabel Estate in the house and the Rest of my Stock without to their youse and behoufe and hears for Ever and I Likwis my will and Disire is that all the Rest of my Land on the South Side of albemarle Sound may be Sold according as my Excutors see fitt and the money to be converted to the use of my well beloved wife and two sons Marthew and Thomas and my Dafter Dina to their use for Ever and Likwise my will and Desire is all my pork and pich tars Should fust be sold to purchase a negro and fouthermore I Give and bequeth to my two Sons Marthew and Thomas my two negros that I have already and that I leave to be purchased to them and their heirs and assigns for Ever. But my desire is that if my sons Marthew and Thomas Should Die without having heirs then this part of Dugs Sutherly to be Equely Devided amonkes my three Sons Samuell John and Josepth to them their heirs and assines for Ever and as to the personal Estate if they Should Die my disier is that my Sons and Deafters Should have it Equilily Divided amonkist them.
I Do hare apointe [rest of this line is torn] John, and Josepth to be my hole and lawfull exetrix and excuters and I do hare acknolege this to be my Last will and testament and do make void all and Disanoul all others whersom Ever they Shall apear as witness my hand and seale.
/s/ Matthew MIDYETT
Test before us the Subscribers
Tulle WILLIAMS
Josepth [His JO marke] OLIVER
Mary [her x marke] HUNTER
No Carolina} at a Court held for said Precinct at the Court house the first day of July anno Dom 1735
Currituck }
Present His Majesties Justices
These may Certifie that Tulle WILLIAMS one of the Subscribing Evidences to the Within will appeared in Open Court and Made Oath on the holly Evengilists that he was present and Saw Mathew MIDGETT Sign Seal and Declare the within to be and Contain his Last will and Testament and that the Said Mathew MIDGETT was then and at that time of Sound and disposing Memory and that he also saw Joseph OLIVER and Mary HUNTER signe there names thereto at the the Same time. Then also appeared Judea MIDGETT and Joseph MIDGETT Exx and Exr in open Court and took the Exers Oath in due forme of Law. Ordered by the said Court that the honble Nathl RICE Esqr Secretary of this province have notice thereon and the within Exx and Exr takeing the Oath [two words unreadable] appointed for Exx and Exrs that Letters Testamentory Issue thereon as the Law directs.
[On the back is written: Letters grantd Novemr 7th 1735]
Four days later, Matthew died.
Regardless of how many times Mathew appeared in court, he remains a key figure in our colonial heritage. The Midyett (Midgett) legacy continues to thrive today. Below is an article detailing their history within the US Coast Guard (Lifesaving Service).
This document has a lot more information of his land patents and court cases and was sent to me by Kay Lynn–> Matthew Midyett from Kay
She also sent me this information:
John Durant was the King of the Yeopim Indians at that time. The Colonial Records have many entries for Durant, including selling of thousands of acres of land. Matthew Midgett also stole rum & tobacco from Emanual Low which Low brought suit against him. I am enclosing a document on what I have on Matthew.10
Upon complaint of Jno. Durant, a Yawpim Indian, setting forth that when he was out against the Indian enemy under the command of Mathew Midgett, he the said Durant, tooke an Indian slave woman and the said Mathew Midgett took her away from him without any sattisfaction: And the matter being heard it is the opinion of this court that the said slave woman did belong to the said Durant, wherefore it is hereby ordered and decreed that the said Mat. Midget doe pay unto the said Durant, ten pounds in consideration of the said slave.
Matthew Midyett’s legacy as a shipwrecked pioneer, ship carpenter, and early settler of North Carolina’s Outer Banks endures through the generations of Midgetts who followed. His adventurous spirit and enduring contributions, from establishing lifesaving stations to navigating turbulent legal waters, have woven his name into the fabric of coastal history. As I continue to uncover more of his life, I am reminded of the strength and resilience that define our family’s roots. The journey of exploring our past is far from over—there’s always another shipwrecked tale waiting to be discovered.
When I began my family history research in the 90s, it primarily revolved around names and facts. That was my approach to building my family tree. However, everything changed when I started blogging about my ancestors; they truly came to life for me. It wasn’t just that their stories were fascinating, but I began to draw parallels between their experiences and my own daily life.
This curiosity drove me to explore the historical context surrounding each ancestor. I found myself questioning why so many lived such short lives and what epidemics plagued their era. I wondered why they chose to leave their homeland and what factors led to their frequent migrations. Sometimes, it takes me quite a while to compose a single blog post because I keep unearthing more information about that individual.
Blogging also helps me identify gaps in my ancestors’ narratives, allowing me to hone in on one ancestor, surname, or event at a time. Alternatively, I may choose to focus on a specific genealogical resource or technique. The key is to center my discussions on manageable topics—bite-sized pieces of my family history. This ongoing process has compelled me to revisit and rewrite some of my earlier posts, as I’ve realized that many are overly lengthy or mention too many ancestors.
Another significant advantage of genealogy blogging is that it serves as excellent “cousin bait.” Over the years, I’ve been contacted by people who share my lineage or are simply intrigued by the stories I tell. These connections enrich my research and provide a gratifying sense that my efforts are worthwhile. Moreover, blogging has become a valuable record of my journey as a family history researcher.
It’s a curious aspect of human nature that, as we learn, we often become so engrossed in our current endeavors that we lose sight of the progress we’ve made over time. Blogging allows me to share snippets of my family history without getting too caught up in structure or formatting—I simply relish the act of writing.
Blogging about my ancestors has transformed my genealogical journey in ways I never expected. What started as a hobby to trace names and dates has evolved into a deeper exploration of my family’s past, a means of connecting with distant relatives, and a way to bring forgotten lives back into the spotlight. Each blog post not only uncovers new discoveries but also reflects my growth as a researcher and storyteller. As I continue to write, I’m reminded that genealogy is not just about building a family tree—it’s about understanding the branches, roots, and the stories in between.
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Have you ever wondered where your Irish ancestors might have received their education? In a time when formal schooling was forbidden for many, a unique and resilient form of education emerged—one that defied the harsh penal laws of the British Crown. Welcome to the world of Irish Hedge Schools, where knowledge was passed down in secret, hidden away in the countryside, beneath the very hedgerows that gave these schools their name. Join me as we uncover the history of these remarkable institutions and the brave souls who kept the flame of learning alive in the face of adversity.
For about two hundred years, this was an illegal, informal, and unofficial local education system.
In the mid-1600s, Oliver Cromwell’s arrival in Ireland led to the outlawing of bardic schools (secular institutions.) Cromwell’s notorious reputation for the massacre of Irish people and the confiscation of their lands has made him an unpopular figure in Irish and English history. Cromwell referred to the bardic schools as popish schools due to his belief that they taught superstition, idolatry, and evil Celtic customs.
A few decades later, when William of Orange was the British king, the British enacted the penal laws. These banned Catholicism and banned priests, which, of course, prohibited the teaching of Catholicism, whether in church or school or anywhere else, for that matter.
In response to discrimination, communities began taking control of their education. This led to the developing of a network of informal schools, referred to as hedge schools, throughout the country. These schools were strategically located to avoid detection by local authorities ‘beneath the sunny side of a hedge’ and were run by schoolmasters who charged a fee for their services. Hedge schools provided instruction in various subjects, including Latin and Greek.
It’s believed that by the 1820s, Hedge Schools educated up to 400,000 students in 9000 schools. This remained in force until it was repealed in 1782. It wasn’t until 1967, with the Free Secondary Education Act in the Republic of Ireland, that secondary school education became open for all.
Because of the secrecy and illegalities, there are few records concerning these schools. Although you can scour the internet and find some teacher’s names in some places.
The story of the Irish Hedge Schools is a testament to the indomitable spirit of a people determined to preserve their heritage and educate their children, no matter the obstacles. While the records of these schools are scarce, their legacy lives on in the countless descendants who carry the torch of knowledge passed down through generations. As we reflect on this hidden chapter of Irish history, let us remember the resilience and ingenuity of our ancestors, who found a way to nurture minds even in the darkest of times.
A few weeks ago I wrote A Look at Time Management and Social Media Strategy. For the past couple of days, I’ve been giving my website a refresher. I searched for “how to rejuvenate a website” and “how to refresh the content of a website” and learned a lot about improving user experience and getting more traffic to my blog.
I have also been more engaged with my fellow family historians and genealogists on their websites, social media accounts, and other websites where others ask questions about their own ancestry and where or how to find something. It still amazes me how many people do not know about their families, even one generation back, or how tracking ancestry works. The number of people jumping to buy DNA tests, thinking they will give all the answers, is mind-boggling. One woman gave a review that her DNA test was terrible because it didn’t tell her who her father was. What?
However, another suggestion to improve my website traffic will have to be put on the back burner for now. It was suggesting a YouTube channel for my business. Not only am I not comfortable doing videos right now, but I just worked on my time management and do not want to add anything else to my plate. Did you know that according to SimilarWeb, YouTube is the 2nd most popular website on the planet? I actually have a YouTube channel. It has two videos on it from when I was teaching children about ancestry.
When visiting my website, you’ll notice a couple of new features. One is a sharing feature to the left of each page.
So, if you are reading something you think a friend or family member would be interested in, click on the icon on the left of your favorite share feature (email, Facebook, messenger, text, and others.) and share the content. Easy peasy!
Second, I have added a “Question or Comment” button. Here, you can quickly email me with questions about a particular blog post (this feature will only be on new blog posts) or a page on the website. You may even have a question about your ancestry. Every blog post currently has a comment feature already, but this box is highlighted on each page, so you can click on it whenever you think of something or see something not quite right about something I posted. Feel free to leave me some kudos, too!
Finally, I added an easy “Subscribe” button to each page. You will already be a subscriber if you receive this post in your email. However, if you are reading this post because you found me through a Google search, please Subscribe so you receive new posts as I publish them. Subscribers also get free access to my Free Resources page.
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As I continue to refine my website and explore new strategies for enhancing user experience, I’m excited to share these updates with you. From repurposing older content to engaging more deeply with the genealogical community, these changes are all part of my ongoing journey to provide valuable and accessible content for fellow family historians. While some suggestions, like creating a YouTube channel, will have to wait, I’m thrilled about the new features that make it easier for you to connect, share, and stay informed. Whether you’re a long-time follower or new to my blog, I hope these updates make your experience even more enjoyable. Don’t forget to subscribe to stay in the loop, and feel free to reach out with any questions or feedback. Here’s to discovering the past together!
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