1703 Theophilus Watson b. abt 1703 m. Elizabeth of Louisa County, Virginia

Theophilus Watson b. abt 1703 m. Elizabeth (MNU) of Louisa County, Virginia

Parents:

Children of Theophilus Watson and wife Elizabeth:

Siblings: (Not confirmed)

FACTS and SOURCES:

To review all the Watson family records on this website from the Louisa County, Virginia area see the following page:  Watson Family Info – Hanover & Louisa Counties, Virginia

Note: James Watson b. abt. 1695 appears to be from a different line than Theophilus Watson. James Watson b. abt 1695 appears to have immigrated in 1716 as a prisoner from the Jacobite Rebellion.

Note: Nehemiah Watson also appears to have immigrated in 1753 to Virginia – so he too appears to be in his own distinct “Watson” line based on documents seen to date.

When reviewing records, take care to try and differentiate between descendants of James Watson. the descendants of Nehemiah Watson and the descendants of Theophilus Watson. Often they have children with the same given names – so records can be easily confused between these families.

Additionally, certain individuals appear to have relationships with more than one Watson family in the area – for instance, the Paulett and Michie families show up in both James Watson and his descendant’s records and Theophilus Watson and his decendant’s records. This can also cause confusion regarding which record belongs to which family.

Finally, even the Watson’s themselves interact with the Watsons from other Watson lines. For instance, Nathan Watson who appears to be from the Theophilus Watson family gives a deposition involving James Watson decd’s estate in 1777 – which gives the appearance of a family relationship – but does not appear likely based on prior records.

1734 July 5 – In obedience to an order of the Court of Hanover made this 5th day of July 1734 …. have met on a tract of land belonging to David Merywether … on Indian Creek in the County of Hanover … hunded acre and as requi to have valued the … works and improvements and by … examination into the acco’t of expenses find as follows
To building … subscribing expenses 35 pounds
to fencing Do … 10 pounds
To expeenses 315 pounds 10 shillings
and 21 head of cattle on the land given under … this 22d day of August 1734
1734 Aug 22 – J Fox, James Goodall, Peter King, Theophilus Watson
Joseph Fox, James Goodall, Peter King and Theophilus Watson were sworn before me for the valuation of the Improvedments of the above mentioned land …
Signed: Abraham Venable.
Deeds, wills, inventories, and settlement of estates 1733-1735. p 123. Hanover County, Virginia
https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/3:1:3QS7-99P6-3SDQ?cat=365146

1735 Aug. 7 – Thomas Paulett planter, St. Paul’s to Richard Watson.
between Thomas Paulet of the Parish of St Paul and County of Hanover planter of the one part and Richard Watson of the same Parish and County planter of the other part … in consideration of the sum of 15 pounds … confirm unto the said Richard Watson … land … being in St Martins Parish … S side of South Anna against the mouth of Beaver Creek … on the South Anna … up the same by the water courses and across to Theophilus Watson’s corner … along Watson’s line …
Signed: Thomas Paulett.
… Semezarius Paulet the wife of the said Thomas Paulet … relinquished all her right of dower … unto the said Richard Watson.
Deeds, wills, inventories, and settlement of estates 1733-1735. p 294. Hanover County, Virginia
https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/3:1:3QS7-99P6-3SWP?i=159&cat=365146

Louisa County, Virginia is created in 1742 out of Hanover County, Virginia:

Virginia Counties in 1742

Virginia Counties in 1742 Louisa created out of Hanover County

1743 March 5 – Mr Theophilus Watson in Louisa. March 5 nails, 2 qrs paper, material; May 4 26 lb brown sugar, ginger; 1744 contra: May 1 by a transfer note at pages: Augt 3 by Abraham Venable.
Merchant Account Book. Hanover County, Virginia bk 35, v.3, p. 235
https://www.ancestry.com/imageviewer/collections/6131/images/VGS_1997_01_01_0236?pId=522749164

1743 Oct 1 – Mr Abraham Venable in Louisa … 1 pr silk knee garters to Theophilus Watson’s ballance 9/4.
Merchants Account Book. Hanover County, Virginia
https://www.ancestry.com/imageviewer/collections/6131/images/VGS_1996_01_01_0368?pId=522225008

1743 Oct 1 – Sundry accounts to balance being a list od debts due to the Cargo belonging to Neill Buchanan Esqr, in London Oct 1.
John Watson
Alexander Watson
Theophilus Watson
James Watson
Merchant Account Book. Hanover County, Virginia
https://www.ancestry.com/imageviewer/collections/6131/images/VGS_1996_01_01_0193?pId=522225008

1743 Oct 12 – Mr Thomas Paulett in Louisa (1000 8d nails, 1 hank silk to Nathan Watson.
(Folio 25) Hanover County – Mr Abraham Venable in Louisa … 1 pr silk knee garters, to Theophilus Watson’s balance 9/4
Bk 34. v.4 Merchant Account Book. Hanover County, Virginia p 369
https://www.ancestry.com/imageviewer/collections/6131/images/VGS_1996_01_01_0368?pId=522225008

1744 July – By Theophilus Watson for a debt due to N Buchanan decd – 1/15/5
Merchants Account Book. Hanover County, Virginia
https://www.ancestry.com/imageviewer/collections/6131/images/VGS_1998_01_01_0115?pId=523273331

1745 Mr Theophilus Watson in Louisa
Apr 6 – 1 new testament, 1/2 bushel of salt, rum
Aug – to cargo for his debt of lbs 7/0/8 due to the executors of Neill Buchanan Esqr.
with 25pct exchange on it.
1745 contra Augt 4 by cash fo: 116
October 1 by ballance.
Merchants Account Book. Hanover County, Virginia
https://www.ancestry.com/imageviewer/collections/6131/images/VGS_2000_01_01_0120?pId=524321912

1745 William Henderson died on his 400 acres in 1745. Only one fragment remains of William’s will and the settlement of his estate. Richard Henderson was one of the executors; the other was Theophilus Watson Sr., the father of Thomas who was born 1694, and was brother-in-law of Quaker Richard. Elderly Theophilus was probably appointed executor to watch over Richard Henderson whose business sense was less than exact; the fragment shows that Richard could not provide vouchers for some of his expenditures of William’s estate money; the court decided Richard’s accounts were probably true, and his financial statement was admitted to record. Richard lived on Cub Creek near William and appears to have been William’s only son in Louisa county. Son William lived in Goochland and son Thomas had died, leaving heirs. Names of William’s three sons-in-law were listed: James Pyrant, Thomas Watson, and Lawrence Redman.
This seems to be the William Henderson whose partial Will (the last page) was found in Loose Papers, Inventory book 1743-1766, in Louisa County Courthouse. It names one deceased son Thomas, who left heirs, one son Richard who was one of the executors, and three daughters, one unnamed who married James Pyrant, Hannah who married Thomas Watson, and Mary who married Lawrence Redman. He was most likely born in the 1670s.
https://www.ancestry.com/sharing/21996504?h=08f180
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1o2TJyBxr7RsBNs9CU56FdB-7POx3T6Nt8Ko-Ix_K7hs/edit (NOTE: This entry indicates that the will of William Henderson indicates his executor is  is “Theophilus Watson Sr”. By implacation, this indicates there is also a “Theophilus Watson Jr”.  It appears that Theophilus Watson Sr may have had his home in and died in Hanover County, Virginia where most records were either lost or destroyed unfortunately. It appears his son Theophilus Watson Jr is the Theophilus Watson of Louisa County that dies in 1749).

1745 Jan 21 – The Estate of William Henderson decd … Richard Henderson & Theophilus Watson (Exors).
To funeral expenses 2.10.0 paid Majr William Morris 5.10.6
To paid Ann Wheeler & To paid Angelica McGuire 2/10
To paid Mr William Johnson 15.10. To paid Dr Doran 4.5.0
To paid Edward Ward for picking tobacco. 0.5.0
To paid James Pyrankins acct. 1.9.10
To paid John Jones 8/6 To paid Lawrence Redman 21.10.0
To paid his quit rents of 200 acres of land
To a Legacy left by the Will of the decd to the heirs of Thos. Hen(sp)
James Pyrant his wifes legacy
Thomas Watson his wifes legacy
Lawrence Redman his wifes legacy
To (tobacco) … for selling the estate
To … copy of the inventory
To a Slay & Harness charged in the inventory but cannot be sold
To paid Michael Holland
To paid Isaac Winston
To paid John Snelson
By the appaisement of the Estate as per Inventory 63.9.9
By 2 Iron Pots appraised to 13/10 omitted in the inventory
By Cash recd of George Norell
By cash recd of William Jones.
January 21, 1745. In obedience for an order of the County Court of Louisa. We the subscribers have settled the estate of William Henderson decd so far as is contained in the foregoing accounty, but Richard Henderson one of the executors of the said decd, doth further charge the said estate, for three pounds seven shillings and two pence, which he says he paid to John Snelson, Isaac Winston, & Michael Holland Gent on acct of the said decd, which we presume may be true, but as the same hath not been made appear … by any legal proof, we refer it to the consideration of the Court. Signed: Abraham Venable, Thomas Paulett.
At a Court held for Louisa County on the 24th day of Sept 1745 Richard Henderson & Theophilus Watson ext this day presented the above account in Court & upon their motion the same was admitted to record.
Thos Perkins, Deputy Co Clk.
Will Book 1, p. 6, Louisa County, Virginia
https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/3:1:3QS7-99P6-RSQ6?i=198&cat=382751

1745 May 30 – By cash fo: 116 for a debt due to Do by Matthew Watson 3/5/10
1745 July – By Theophilus Watson for a debt due to Do 7/0/8
Merchants Account Book 36. v2 p 109 Hanover County, Virginia
https://www.ancestry.com/imageviewer/collections/6131/images/VGS_1998_01_01_0115?pId=522225008

1745 Oct 1 – (Folio 169) Sundries Dr to balance to ballance, being a compleat list of all the debts due to the Cargo NB under the management of Francis Jerdone belonging to the executors of Neill Buchanan Esqr decd this 1st day of Oct 1745.
Alexander Watson
James Watson
John Watson
Theophilus Watson
Matthew Watson
Merchants Account Book 38. v2. p. 125 Hanover County, Virginia
https://www.ancestry.com/imageviewer/collections/6131/images/VGS_2000_01_01_0131?pId=522225008

1749 Aug 22 – Theophilus Watson, Inventory bk with Misc Records 1743-1790. p. 13 Louisa Co, Va
Louisa Co, Persuant to an order of Court dated the 22d day of August 1749 we the subscribers being first sworn have appraised the Estate of Theophilus Watson deceased, viz:
(itemization of personal estate) – Total: 3027.11
Signed: Abra. Venable, James Goodall, Daniel Williams.
At a Court held for Louisa County on Tuesday the 24th day of October 1749.
This appraisement of the Estate of Theophilus Watson decd was this day returned by Elizabeth Watson and by the court ordered to be recorded …
https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/3:1:3QS7-99P6-RS7B?i=202&cat=382751

)))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))

After the death of Theophilus Watson, his wife Elizabeth and sons Randolph, John, and David, and daughter Lucy continue living in Louisa County.

1751 Apr 23 – William Henderson and wife to Elizabeth Watson, bk A, p 421. Louisa County, Virginia
… between William Henderson of the Parish of Fredricksville in the County of Louisa planter and Martha his wife of the one part and Elizabeth Watson of the Parish & County afsd widow of the other part … William Henderson and Martha his wife for and in consideration of the sum of 25 pounds … paid by the said Elizabeth Watson … confirm unto the said Elizabeth Watson … land … in the County afsd which the sd William Henderson purchased of John Dashper by deed … containing by estimation 200 acres ….. on the South side of Beaver Creek on the E side of a small branch …
Signed: William Henderson, Martha Henderson
Wit: Thomas Paulet, Randolph Robit, Thomas Perkins
https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/3:1:3Q9M-CS42-433Z-F?i=225&cat=281398

1758 May 23 – Randolph Watson to John Watson, Deed bk B, p 267 Louisa Co, Va
… between Randolph Watson of the Parish of Fredricksville in the County of Louisa of the one part and John Watson of the afsd County and Parish of the other part … Randolph Watson out of the love and affection which I have to my said brother John Watson above named … confirm unto the sd John Watson … land scituate … on Beaver Creek … on the flat grounds of Beaver Creek … containing by estimation 200 acres …
Signed: Randolph Watson
https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/3:1:3Q9M-CS42-43QK-5?i=446&cat=281398

1759 Nov 27 – John East to Randolph Watson. bk C, p. 4. Louisa County, Virginia
… between John East of the County of Lunenburg planter of the one part and Randolph Watson of the County of Louisa planter of the other part ….. in consideration of the sum of 22 pounds …. confirm unto the said Randolph Watson … land situate … on the South side of the South Anna River in the County of Louisa containing …. 200 acres … at the mouth of a Gutt on the River … to Matthew Jouetts corner … said 200 acres of land is part of 400 acres granted to William Henderson … the 28th of January 1736 …
Signed: John East
https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/3:1:3Q9M-CS42-GSVY-9?i=110&cat=281398

1760 June 17 – Thomas Paulett fr William Terrell, Mills, bk C, p 30. Louisa County, Virginia
… between William Terrell Mills of the County of Lunenburg merchant of the one part and Thomas Paulett of the County of Louisa planter of the other part … in consideration of the sum of 120 pounds … confirm unto the said Thomas Paulett … land … on Goldmine Creek in the County of Louisa containing … 300 acres … at Col Symes corner …
Signed: William Terrell Mills
Wit: Richard Philips, John Jouett, Adam Chisholm, Randolph Watson.
https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/3:1:3Q9M-CS42-GSK3-N?i=123&cat=281398

1762 Jan 26 – Thomas Watson to Randolph Watson. Deed bk C, p 104 Louisa Co, Va
… between Thomas Watson of the County of Louisa cooper of the one part and Randolph Watson of the samd County planter of the other part … in consideration of the sum of 14 pounds … confirmed unto the said Randolph Watson … land … on the S side of the South Ana River … at Venable’s corner red oak saplin … on the mouth of Juniper Branch … to a corner in Venable’s line … which is part of 400 acres granted to William Henderson by patent bearing date 1733 by estimation 200 acres …
Signed: Thomas Watson
Wit: William Hughes.
… Hannah the wife of the said Thomas Watson … relinquished her right of dower in the above lands…
https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/3:1:3Q9M-CS42-GSKS-B?i=160&cat=281398

1767 Feb 10 – Obadiah Watson son of John & Ann Watson was born Feb 10, 1767 p. 6
John Watson born Aug 18, 1768
William Watson born July 10, 1772
Delpha Watson born May 28, 1774
Birth and Baptismal Record Book, Louisa County, Virginia
https://cdm15138.contentdm.oclc.org/digital/collection/p15138coll14/id/45

John Watson and Ann Watson birth records in Louisa County Virginia

John Watson and Ann Watson birth records in Louisa County Virginia

1767 March Court – Randolph Watson v Phillips, p 17 Louisa Co, Va
On the motion of Randolph Watson a witness for Richard Phillips agt Edmond Massie it is ordered that the sd Phillips pay him 100 pounds of tobacco for 4 days attendance at this court according to law.
https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/3:1:3Q9M-CSY6-PYZG?i=34&cat=400438

1768 Aug Ct – John Watson sworn under Shff p. 234 Louisa Co, Va
Henry Garrett and John Watson having first taken the usual oaths to his Majesty’s person and Government and taken and subscribed the abjurationn oath and subscribed the tist wiri (with the approbation of Charles Smith Gent: Sheriff of this County) sworn and admitted his undersheriffs.
https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/3:1:3Q9M-CSY6-PBK8?i=143&cat=400438

1768 Aug 30 – William Trimmer son of William and Lucy Trimmer was born Aug 30, 1768 p. 23
Birth and Baptismal Record Book, Louisa County, Virginia
https://cdm15138.contentdm.oclc.org/digital/collection/p15138coll14/id/45 (NOTE: Theophilus’ daughter Lucy has a son named William Trimmier on Aug 30, 1768 according to Louisa County records – Lucy is “presumed” to be the daughter of Theophilus as the records of herself, her husband William Trimmier, and her children continue to appear next to other children of Theophilus Watson’s in Louisa County, Virginia and continuing into Union County, SC and Spartanburg County, SC – see records for John Watson b. abt 1737 m. Ann of Louisa County, Va and South Carolina).  

William Trimmier and Lucy birth record in Louisa County Virginia

William Trimmier and Lucy birth record in Louisa County Virginia

1768 Oct 10 – John Watson sworn under Shff p. 249 Louisa Co, Va
John Watson, Charles Barret Jr and William Smith having first taken the usual oaths to his Majesty’s person and Government, and taken sworn and subscribed the abjuration aoth, and subscribed the test, were on the motion of Thomas Ballard Smith Gent Sheriff of this County sworn and admitted his Under Sheriffs.
https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/3:1:3Q9M-CSY6-PB2K?i=150&cat=400438

1769 May 8 – William Trimear to Randolph Watson deed ack p 311 Louisa Co, Va
Indenture … between William Trimmier and Lucy his wife of the one part, and Randolph Watson of the other part was acknowledged by the said William and Lucy (… Lucy … acknowledged deed …) and recorded.
https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/3:1:3Q9M-CSY6-PB2S?i=181&cat=400438

1769 May 8 – William Trimmier to Watson, Deed bk D1/2, p 143 Louisa Co, Va
… between William Trimmur of the County of Louisa planter of the one part and Randolph Watson of the same County planter of the other part … in consideration of the sum of 35 pounds … confirm unto the sd Randolph Watson … land … in the County of Louisa on both side the Uordchopt(sp?) Road … 100 acres … bounded … which said 100 acres of land was purchased by William Trimmier of Edmd Carter Gent …
Signed: William Trimmier, Lucy Trimmier
Wit: William Steel, Rees Hughes, David Watson
https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/3:1:3Q9M-CS42-GSJP-M?i=443&cat=281398

1771 Jan 14 – Randall Watson ordy lycense p. 433 Louisa Co, Va
At the motion of Randall Watson he hath liberty to keep an Ordinary at his plantation on the Three Chopt Road in this County on his giving bond and paying the Governor dues as the law directs.
https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/3:1:3Q9M-CSY6-PBXG?i=242&cat=400438

1772 May 11 – Eliza Watson to David Watson, Deed bk D1/2, p 353 Louisa Co, Va
… between Eliza Watson of the Parish of Trinity in the County of Louisa of the one part & David Watson of the Parish of Trinity and County of the other part … in consideration of 5 pounds … confirm unto the sd David Watson … land containing 200 acres … bounded by the lines of John Watson, Thomas Trimmier, G Robert, F Bibb in the Parish and County abovesd … land formerly purchased by the sd Eliza Watson of William Henderson …
Signed: Elizabeth Watson
https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/3:1:3Q9M-CS42-GSKR-Y?i=548&cat=281398

1772 July 2 – The Virginia Gazette (Williamsburg, Virginia) page 3 – Taken up, in Louisa, a pale red steer marked with a crop and underkeel in the left ear, and a crop and overkeel in the right. Poseted, and appraised to 3 pounds. Randolph Watson. (Notice in Paper).
https://www.newspapers.com/image/40481418/?terms=Watson&match=1

1772 Sept 14 – Benjamin Brown and wife Suzan to Randolph Watson, Deed bk D1/2, p 406 Louisa Co, Va
… Between Benjamin Brown of the County of Hanover and Suzan his wife of the one part, and Randolph Watson of the County of Louisa of the other part … in consideration of the sum of 30 pounds … confirm unto the sd Randolph Watson … land containing 200 acres … in the County of Louisa … along Greens line … along Reynolds line to Bells corner … along Bell’s line (being the dividing line between Bell and Brown) …
Signed: Ben Brown
Wit: William Trimmeer, Henry Gambrell, John Watson
https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/3:1:3Q9M-CS42-GSKR-F?i=574&cat=281398

1773 April 12 – John Watson and wife Anne & David Watson to Lewis Barritt, Deed bk D1/2, p 496 Louisa Co, Va
… between John Watson and Anne his wife & David Watson of the County of Louisa of the one part and Lewis Barrett of the County of Hanover of the other part … in consideration of the sum of 300 pounds … confirm unto the said Lewis Barrett … land lying in Louisa County containing 200 acres … on Beaver Creek being the same tract of land that is conveyed by deed of record in the said county of Louisa by Randolph Watson to the sd John & was purchased by Theophilus Watson, Father of the sd Randolph of John Garth as will appear by deed of record in the County Court of Hanover … on other tract of land lying in the County afsd containing 200 acres be the same more or less and bounded by the lines of the afsd John Watson, Thomas Thomson, and Robert Fleming Bibb which tract of land was purchased by Elizabeth Watson mother of the sd David Watson of William Henderson and by her conveyed by deed of record in the sd County of Louisa to her sd son David Watson …
Signed: John Watson, Anne Watson, David Watson.
https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/3:1:3Q9M-CS42-GSKK-3?i=620&cat=281398

1773 Oct 11 (probate date), (1773 July 26 written) – Will of William Tremmier Louisa County, Virginia
In the name of God, amen, I William Trimmear of Louisa, being sick and weak but of sound mind and memory, make and ordain this my last will and testament in manner and form following, First and Principally I recommend my soul into the hand of Alimight God that gave it to me, and my body to the erath to be decently buried at the discretion of my Executors hereinafter mentioned, And to my wordly Estate wherewith it hath pleased God to bless me with (after my just debts are discharged) I give and dispose of as followeth Vitz-
I lend to my loving wife, Lucy Trimmear during her natural Life the land and plantation whereon I now live and one negro woman named Jane, with all my stocks of every kind, together with all my household furniture excepting two feather beds, and at the death of my said wife me estate hereby Lent is to revert to my three daughters namely Ann, Elizabeth, and Mary (Excepting the land) to them and their heirs forever, and in case either of my said daughters should die with Lawful Issue, it is my desire, that the said Estate should be equally divided among those that are living (and to heirs of those that are dead) to them and their heirs forever.
Item – I give and bequeath to my son Obediah Trimmear after the death of my said wife, the land and plantation whereon I now Live, with one feather bed and Furniture to him and his heirs forever.
Item – I give and bequeath to my son John Trimyear one–tract of land containing 400 acres in this county and lying on the Three Notcht Road, and one Feather Bed– and Furniture to him and his heirs forever. My will and desire is that my Negro man Jack should be sold at the discretion of my loving wife, and the money arising from such sale should be laid out in Negroes–and such negroes to be at the disposal of my Loving Wife during her Natural Life, and at her death to be equally divided among my above mentioned daughters.
I also Desire that my land on Fosters Creek should be sold in order to discharge my just debts, and the Balance of the money to be Laid out for a work horse for the use of my said wife and twenty pounds to my son John Trimyear to be allowed before said horse is purchased– and Lastly I appoint my Loving Wife, John Watson, Richard Phillips, Junr. my Extrs and Executrix of this my Last Will and Testament.
In witness Thereof I have set my and seal this 26th day of July 1773
Sign’d Sealed and Delivered)
In Presence of)
N.B. The word lent , interlined in the 16th line and what is included in the 20th and 21st lines in the parenthesis to be left out alter’d before sign’d
One hhd (Hogshead) Tobaco and Eleven Pounds, Ten shillings Due from Henry Garrett to go towards paying my just debts,
Signed: William Trimyear (seal)
Wits: Alexander Grant, Elizabeth Watson, Ann Watson
At a Court held for Louisa County on Monday the 11th day of October 1773. This will was this day Exhibited n Open Court by John Watson Executor and Lucy Trimyear Execitrix, Therein named and was proved by oaths of the Witnesses thereto, and by the Court to the record and is recorded.
Test John Nelson – Clk.
Recorded Will Book 2, Page 177
A copy: –
Teste: – Nelson Clerk
Louisa Circuit Court
Louisa County, Virginia
(Copied from the records of Cleta Bonslagel Gordon, 1803 Myrtle Street, Jackson, MS: member of Magnolia State Chapter, DAR) https://familysearch.org/ark:/61903/3:1:3QS7-99P6-5SP6?i=168&cat=382751

1773 Oct 11 – Bond for executors of William Trimmier decd’s estate. Will bk 2, Page 178. Louisa County, Virginia
Know all men by these presents that we John Watson & Lucy Trimmeer & Richard Anderson, are held and firmly Bound to Robert Anderson James Overton, James Meriwether and William Garrett Gent.m Justices of the Court of Louisa County now sitting in the sum of one Thousand Pounds to the payment whereof well and truly to be made to thes.d Justices, and their successors, we bind ourselves and each of us, our and each of Heirs Exors and Administrators Jointly and Severally, firmly by these presents sealed with our Seals this 11.th day of October In the year of our Lord one Thousand Seven Hundred and Seventy three, and In the 13.th year of the reign of our Sovreign Lord George the third The condition of the above obligation is such that if the above Bound John Watson and Lucy Trimmeer, Executor & Executrix, of the Last will and Testament, of William Trimmeer Deceased, do make or cause to be made a true and perfect Inventory of all and Singular, the goods chattles and Credits, of the said Deceased, which have or Shall, come to the Hands possession or Knowledge, of thes.d John Watson, and Lucy Trimmeer, or into the hand or possession of any other person, or persons, for them, and the same so made do exhibit into the County Court of Louisa, at such time as they shall be thereunto required, by thes.d Court, and the same goods chattles, and credits, and all other thesaid goods chattles and credits of the said Deceased, which at any time after shall come to the Hands Possession or knowledge, of thes.d John Watson, and Lucy Trimmeer, or into the hands or possession of any other person or persons, for them, do well and truly administer, according to aw, and further do make a just & true account of their actings and doings, therein when thereto required by thes.d Court; and also shall well and Truly pay and Deliver all the Legacies, contained and specified in thes.d Testament; as far as thesaid Goods chattles and Credits, will thereto extend, and the Law shall charge; then this obligation to be Void and of none Effect, or Else to remain in full force, and Virtue
John Watson (L.S)
Lucy Trimmeer (L.S.)
Rich C Anderson (L.S.)
Sealed and Delivered In presence off
At a Court held for Louisa County on Monday the 11.th day of October 1773 This Bond was this day in open court ack.gd by the parties, and by the Court admited to record and is recorded. Test
https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/3:1:3QS7-99P6-5SP1?i=169&cat=382751

1774 May 9 – deed for 400 acres of land that Randolph Watson purchased located in both Louisa and Albemarle Counties lying S of Three Notched Road.
Louisa County Survey Book, 9 May 1774 400 acres in Louisa & Albemarle S of Three Notched Road & not stated.

1774 Aug 8 – Trimmeers Exrs to Dashper, Deed bk E, p 8 Louisa Co, Va
… between John Watson and Lucy Trimmier of the Parish of Trinity in the County of Louisa executors to the last Will and Testament of William Trimmier of the one part and Thomas Dashper of sd Parish and County of the other part … in consideration … of the sume of 45 pounds … sell unto the said Thomas Dasher … land containing 284 acres … in the Parish and County afsd … bounded according to a patent bearing date 15 October 1741 … at Green’s corner … in Thomson’s line … in Green’s line … the said John Watson and Lucy Trimmier executors of the last will and testament afsd …
Signed: Lucy Trimmear, John Watson
https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/3:1:3Q9M-CS42-P9F7-B?i=33&cat=281398 (Note: This appears to be the last appearance of John Watson b. abt 1737 in Louisa County, Virginia. His uncle Nathan Watson moves to Pittsylvania County, Virginia before 1777 – so this may be the area that John Watson moved to as well – close to Halifax/Pittsylvania Va or Orange Co, NC – there are several John Watsons in these areas and they are difficult to differentiate. John Watson buys land in 1786 in Union County, South Carolina with Adam Chisholm – who also appears to leave from the Louisa County, Virginia area – then appears in Halifax County, Virginia – and then appears in Union County, SC).

1774 Nov 28 – John Sanders and wife Jane to Randolph Watson, Deed bk E, p 33 Louisa Co, Va
… between John Sanders Sr and Jane his wife of the County of Guilford in the Province of North Carolina of the one part and Randolph Watson of the County of Louisa … of the other part … in consideration of the sum of 15 pounds … sell unto the said Randolph Watson … land … in the County of Louisa … on both sides the Three Notched Road and bounded … on John Moore Jr line to Rogers corner pine … to a corner in John Hays line … containing in the whole 397 acres …
Signed: John Sanders, Jane Sanders
Wit: William Gray, Charles Pheres, Mary Phare, Judith Crew
https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/3:1:3Q9M-CS42-P9FQ-1?i=46&cat=281398

1775 Sept 11 – Watson etc to Anderson, Deed bk E, p 67 Louisa Co, Va
… between Randolph Watson and Martha his wife and Elizabeth Watson their mother of the County of Louisa of the one part and Richard Anderson of the same County of the other part …. in consideration of the sum of 300 pounds … sell … unto the said Richard Anderson … land … in … County of Louisa on both sides of the S branch of Camunkey River … on the W side of North East Creek … John Moore and Thomas Paulett decd .. to a forked white oak formerly known by the name of Mathew Jouet’s corner … in the line of the afsd Thomas Paulett … containing by estimation 500 acres …
Signed: Randolph Watson, Martha Watson, Elizabeth Watson
Wit: William Smith, David Watson, James Michie
https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/3:1:3Q9M-CS42-P9F3-6?i=63&cat=281398  (NOTE: This is the last record found for Elizabeth Watson, wife of Theophilus Watson. It is assumed she dies shortly after this). (NOTE also that James Michie is a witness to this deed. James Michie is married to one of James Watson’s daughters. These appear to be different Watson lines, as James Watson appears to have immigrated in 1716 (where Theophilus Watson Sr was noted in records in New Kent Co, Va by 1689) – James Watson arrived in 1716 as a prisoner from the Jacobite Rebellion. They appear to have contacts with several of the same families – which raises the question of whether they possibly were related somehow back in their home country – and were reunited when James Watson arrived in Virginia. James Michie’s connections with Theophilus’s family may be just a coincidence – but coincidences such as this are worth keeping in mind). 

1776 Sept 20 – The Virginia Gazette (Williamsburg, Virginia) page 1 – To be rented, and entered on this fall, A Plantation belonging to Joseph Watson, orphan to John Watson deceased, lying on the south side of Pamunkey River, in Hanover County, near Allen’s Creek. The said plantation is in fine order for sowing wheat, and is of an exceeding good soil for corn, wheat, tobacco, and hemp, and has a very fine apple and peach orchard, where there have been made 200 gallons of brandy a year, and 28l. a hand for several years together; it is a fine healthy part of the country, with exceeding good water, is convenient to church and mill, and within 2 miles of trade. For terms apply to the subscriber, in Henrico, near Richmond. Julius Allen, Sen.
https://www.newspapers.com/image/40580137/?terms=Wat%2an&match=1 (NOTE: This appears to be John Watson b. abt 1702 who is the brother of Theophilus Watson of this page – he appears to have died in Hanover County, Virginia where records are mostly lost or destroyed unfortunately). 

1776 Dec 9 – David Watson decd admr bond bk 2, p 298. Louisa County, Virginia
Know all Men by these presents that we John Watson, Waddy Thompson and William Phillips Gent: are held and firmly Bound unto Thomas Johnson the first Justices in the Commission of the peace for Louisa County: for, and in Behalf, and to the sole use and Behoof the Justices of the said County, and their Successors, in the sum of Five Hundred pounds To be paid to the said Thomas Johnson his Executors Administrators, and Assigns To the which payment well and Truly to be made, we bind ourselves, and Every of us, our; and Every of our Heirs, Executors, and Administrators, Jointly and Severally, firmly by these presents. Sealed with our Seals, Dated this ninth Day of December 1776 The Condition of this obligation is such, That if the Above Bound John Watson Administration of all the Goods, Chattles, and Credits of David Watson Deceased, do make or Cause to be made, a true and perfect Inventory of all and Singular the goods, Chattles and Credits of the Said Deceased which have or shall come to the Hands possession or knowledge of him the said John Watson or into the Hands, or possession of any other person or persons for him and the same so made, do exhibit, or Cause to be Exhibited into the County Courts of Louisa at such time as he shall be thereunto required by the said Court, and the same Goods, Chattles and Credits, and all other the Goods, Chattles and Credits of the said Deceased at the Time of his Death which at any Time after shall come to the Hands or possession
of the said John Watson or into the Hands and possession of any other person or persons, for him do well and truly Administer, according to Law: and further, do make a Just and true account of his Actings and Doings therein when thereto Required by the Said Court: and all the Rest and Residue of the said Goods, Chattles, and Credits, which shall be found Remaining upon the said administrators Account, the same being first Examined and Allowed by the Justices of the Court for the Time being shall Deliver and pay unto such person or persons respectively, as the said Justices by these Order or Judgment, shall Direct, pursuant to the Laws in that Case made and provided: and if it shall hereafter appear that any Last Will and Testament was made by the said Deceased, and the Executor or Executors therein Named, do Exhibit the same into the said Court, Making Request to have it allowed and approved accordingly, if the said John Watson being thereunto Required do Render and Deliver up his Letters of Administration, approbation of such Testament being first had and made in the said Court: Then this obligation to be Void and of none Effect, or Else to Remain in full force and Virtue
John Watson (his seal)
Waddy Thomson (his seal)
Wm Phillips (his seal)
Sealed and Delivered in the presence of
At a Court held for Louisa County December ye 9th 1776
This Bond was this Day in open Court Acknowledged and by the Court Ordered to be Recorded
https://www.ancestry.com/discoveryui-content/view/67378:62347?tid=&pid=&queryId=6f1183aae9c04c2fe3887c08f977e227&_phsrc=YAB103&_phstart=successSource (NOTE: David Watson, son of Theophilus Watson, dies in 1776 as his brother John Watson files for an administrators bond of David Watson decd’s estate on Dec 9, 1776 – it is unknown if this death was related to the Revolution at the time of this writing). 

1777 Jan 13 – Page 431, bk 2. Louisa County, Virginia
We the Subscribers have appraised the Estate of David Watsons Deced in Current Money agreeable to the Order of Court held the 9th of Decbr 1776
A Negro Man Sam L70, To 1 Mare L30, To 1 Stone Horse L11 L111
To 1 Bed L4..To 1 Saddle L1-10 To Parr Saddle Baggs 15/To parsel close & Rozor7/ 6-12-
Robert Anderson, John Armstrong, Lancelott Armstrong
At a Court held for Louisa County the 13.th Day of January 1777
This Inventory and appraisement was this Day Returned and by the court ordered to be Recorded
Test John Nelson Clk Cur

1778 Oct 8 – Randolph Watson from Edward Carter, Deed bk 1, p 140. Fluvanna County, Virginia
… between Edward Carter of the County of Albemarle of the one part and Randolph Watson of the County of Louisa of the other part … in consideration of the sum of 130 pounds …. confirm unto the said Randolph … land … in the Counties of Fluvanna and Louisa and containing … 1350 acres … on the waters of the Byrd Creek surveyed for John Carter Esqr the 13 day of March 1739, and likewise lands lying contiguous to the said tract part of which was sold to William Trimmeer and the residue herein included adjoining the lands of Judith Ascue, Causby and Hudson and Trimmier’s line …
Signed: Edward Carter
Wit: George Thompson, Duncan McLauchlan, Tinstall Quarles, Alexander Moss.
https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/3:1:3Q9M-CSKH-H91W-T?i=81&cat=402676 (Note: Theophilus Watson’s son Randolph lives out his life in Louisa County, Virginia)

1778 Dec 2 – Randolph Watson and Martha his wife to Allen Brock. Deed Book 1, page 169. Fluvanna County, Virginia
… between Randolph Watson and Martha his wife of the County of Louisa of the one part and Allen Brock of the County of Fluvanna of the other part … in consideration of the sum of 12 pounds 10 shillings … sell unto the said Allen Brock … land containing 100 and 1/2 acres … in the County of Fluvanna and bounded … on Humphreys line …
Signed: Randolph Watson, Martha Watson
Wit: Samuel Richardson, George Robison, Robert Baber.
https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/3:1:3Q9M-CSKH-H919-8?i=96&cat=402676

1779 April 1 – Randolph Watson to John Sanders. Deed bk 1, p. 171. Fluvanna County, Virginia
… between Randolph Watson of the County of Louisa of the one part and John Saunders of the County of Goochland of the other part … in consideration of the sum of 50 pounds … confirm unto the said John Saunders … land lying in the County’s of Fluvanna and Louisa on the Branches of the Creek and bounded by the lines of Charles Clarke, John May, Henry Taylor, Trimmur … containing … 100 acres …
Signed: Randolph Watson, Martha Watson
Fluvanna County, Virginia Deeds 1777-1783, by TLC Genealogy, 1999.
https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/3:1:3Q9M-CSKH-H919-L?i=97&cat=402676

1779 Sept 2 – Randolph Watson to Charles Clarke. Deed bk 1, p 206. Fluvanna County, Virginia
… between Randolph Watson and Martha his wife of the County of Louisa of the one part and Charles Clarke of said County of the other part … in consideration of the sum of 19 pounds 14 shillings and 3 farthings … confirm unto the said Charles Clark … land … in the Counties of Fluvanna and Louisa on the Waters of the Byrd containing 121 and 1/4 acres … on Trimmiers line … on Merodith line … to Meroith corner … on Mays line … crossing the County line …
Signed: Randolph Watson.
Fluvanna County Virginia Deeds 1777-1783, by TLC Genealogy, 1999.
https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/3:1:3Q9M-CSKH-H919-9?i=114&cat=402676

1782 – Personal Property Tax List.
–Randolph Watson – 1 tithe, 7 slaves, 2 horses, 12 cattle
–James Watson – 1 tithe, 23 slaves, 8 horses, 43 cattle
–John Watson – (torn) – 5 slaves (rest is missing due to torn page)
Louisa County, Virginia

1782 Sept 28 – Deposition of William Watson of lawful age … deposeth … when Nathan Watsons deposition was to be taken in the afsd suit, this deponant and said Defendant James together with sd complt Robert had been to Pittsylvania to take said deposition and on their return back, this deponant and said defendant fell into a conversation about when Barbary Watson’s mother of this Deponant & said Defendant deposition was to be taken and said defendant replyed on Saturday …
… sais this Deponant I wlll be glad if you will let me go with you when you go to take it. Not sais this deponant to said Defendant that I would wish to injure you, but you know sais this deponant our Mother is old and forgetful and somewhat ignorant and I should be glad to talk with & tell her of things in order to remind her when said Deft replyed will come down a Fryday night and we will go down together.
This deponant further saith that he came according to the time appointed and said Defendant so far from complying with his promise had gone down on the Thursday night before.
This deponant further saith that on the Saturday morning he went down and his Mother being in the Kitchen, he went to her and asked his said Mother when his brother James sd Defendant came down and she told him this Deponant then his sd Mother if sd James had taken her deposition and she replyed yes.
Sais this deponant I should have been glad to have been here to have reminded you of things. When the sd Deponants sd mother got angry and saying something disrespectful of complainant Robert, this deponant thought twas best to let her his sd Mother alone and left her.
This deponant further saith that afterwards when his sd Mother’s deposition was to be taken sd James produced a writing which was read as his said Mother’s deposition & Deft Robert askt her some questions when his said Mother seemed angry, refused to answer anything & told him all she had to say was already wrote down.
This deponant further saith that with respect to the marriage contract the cause of the above suit he this deponant heard David Wood his brother-in-law mention it soon after Robert Michie sd Complt was married to Ann daughter of sd James Watson decd & another complt to sd suit that he frequently heard said contract talked of long before sd James Watson decd death by sd Wood & once he remembers to have told Deft James about it and how sd Wood had told him that sd Watson decd had informed him the sd Wood of sd contract.
This deponant further saith that when said Wood told him the sd Deponant about sd contract said Wood was extremely uneasy … he sd Wood was to get less of sd Watson’s estate than Complt Robert.
This dept further saith that as to any contract being made of his own private knowledge he has none.
Further this deponant saith not.
Signed: William Watson
Louisa. Sept 28, 1782.
Sworn to in due form before us. Thomas Johnson Jr, Turner Anderson (NOTE: This deposition confirms that Nathan Watson (who appears to be a brother of Theophilus Watson of this page) was living in Pittsylvania County, Virginia in 1777 when he gave his deposition).

depo of William Watson

depo of William Watson

depo of William Watson p2

depo of William Watson p2

1783 – Personal Property Tax List.
–Randolph Watson – 1 tithe, 3 slaves abv 16, 7 total slaves, 1 horse, 7 cattle
–James Watson – 2 tithes, 11 slaves abv 16, 25 total slaves, 8 horses, 40 cattle
–Capt James Watson – 1 tithe, 4 slaves abv 16, 9 total slaves, 5 horses, 24 cattle
–Nehemiah Watson – 1 horse, 2 cattle
Louisa County, Virginia

1785 – Personal Property Tax List.
–Randolph Watson – 1 tithe, 3 slaves abv 16, 5 slaves below 16, 4 horses, 7 cattle
(Slaves: Tom, Phebe, Jane, Lucy, Luis)
–James Watson – 1 tithe, 22 slaves abv 16, 45 slaves below 16, 13 horses, 64 cattle
(Slaves: Ben, Charles, Darby, Tom, Moses, Adam, Bett, Charles, Hannah, Jacob, Patrick Judy, Fillis, Harry, Tom, Lucy, Winny, Peter, Jane, Fanney, Mourning, Mima, Easter, John, Joe, Milley, Robbin, Jane, Cate, Tom, Sarah, Fanney, Tom, Nell, Jess, Bob, Stephen, Robin, Tom, Davy, Will, Cupid, Nell, Sarah, Patt).
–Nehemiah Watson – 1 horse, 2 cattle
Louisa County, Virginia

1786 – Personal Property Tax List.
–James Watson – 1 tithe, 17 slaves abv 16, 9 horses, 41 cattle.
(Slaves: Tom, Charles, Bobb, Ben, Moses, Charles, Adam, David, Sarah, Jane, Catey, Fanny, Tabb, Lucy, Hannah, Hester, Milley, Jacob, Judah, Filles, Haney, Reuben, Jammey, John, Joe, Nancy, Peter, Fanny, Mourning, Minna, Sal, Tom, Nell, Siss, Bob, Tom, Stephen, Patrick).
–Randolph Watson – 1 tithe, 2 slaves above 16, 4 horses, 3 cattle
(Slaves: Tom, Jane, Lucy)
–Capt. James Watson – 5 slaves abv 16, 3 horses, 21 cattle
(Slaves: Carl, Majorie, Robin, Tom, Will, Debby, Will, Cupid, Sall, Patt)
Louisa County, Virginia

1787A – Personal Property Tax List.
–Nehemiah Watson – 1 tithe, 1 horse, 2 cattle
Louisa County, Virginia

1787B – Personal Property Tax List.
–Capt James Watson – 1 tithe, 22 slaves abv 16, 26 slaves below 16, 13 horses, 64 cattle
–Randolph Watson – 1 tithe, 2 slaves abv 16, 2 slaves under 16, 3 horses, 6 cattle
Louisa County, Virginia

1788A – Personal Property Tax List.
–Nehemiah Watson – exempt – 1 horse
Louisa County, Virginia

1788B – Personal Property Tax List.
–Randolph Watson – 4 tithes, 3 slaves, 2 horses
–Majr James Watson – 26 titles, 27 slaves, 13 horses
Louisa County, Virginia

1789A – Personal Property Tax List.
–Majr James Watson – 24 tithes, 26 slaves, 10 horses
–Randolph Watson (estate) – 2 tithes, 2 slaves, 3 horses
Louisa County, Virginia

1789B – Personal Property Tax List.
–Nehemiah Watson exempt – 1 horse
Louisa County, Virginia

1789 Nov 6 – Randolph Watson inventory, bk 3, p 272. Louisa County, Virginia
… An inventory and appraisement of Randolph Watson estate decd taken the 6th day of November 1789 … (itemized list of personal property) … Signed: James Watson, William Ragland, Samuel Henson
https://www.ancestry.com/discoveryui-content/view/67378:62347?tid=&pid=&queryId=6f1183aae9c04c2fe3887c08f977e227&_phsrc=YAB103&_phstart=successSource

1789 Dec 1 – Randolph Watson account of sales, bk 3, p 292. Louisa County, Virginia
… A list of what was sold at sale of Randolph Watson decd in December 1, 1789.
(Names of purchasers):
James Tate,
Charles Boless,
Patrick Fisher
John Perkins,
William Walker,
Widow Watson,
Giles Allegra,
Daniel Culp,
Richard Morris,
Elisha,
Benjamin Priddy,
William Runnals,
Signed: James Meriwether, Shff.
https://www.ancestry.com/discoveryui-content/view/67378:62347?tid=&pid=&queryId=6f1183aae9c04c2fe3887c08f977e227&_phsrc=YAB103&_phstart=successSource