1760 John Gowen of Davidson Co, TN b. bef. 1760

John Gowen b. bef. 1760

Parents:

  • Unk

Children:

  • John J Gowen son
  • Wilfred B Gowen son
  • Nanda M Dunn dau
  • Minerva Hays dau
  • Maria L Rains dau

Siblings:

  • Unk

States and Counties to research: 

FACTS and NOTES:

Davidson Co, TN info:

1781 Inventory of the estate of David Gowine, Will Book 1, pg 11. Davidson Co, TN
https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/3:2:77TV-1MY?i=26&cc=1909088&cat=307760

1783 March 4 “William Goings entered into bond in Davidson County with James Shaw, security, in the amount of £200 specie” and was granted the administration of “the estate of David Goings, deceased” by the Nashville Committee. William Gowen signed the return of the estate of David Gowen presented to the court. Shortly afterwards “William Gowens” as administrator of the estate of “David Gowens, deceased” sued John Gibson in a “plea of detinue*.”
Worth S. Ray, writing in “Tennessee Cousins” stated, “The court of the Cumberland District met again of June 3, 1783, and the Estate of David Gowen came up against John Gibson.” The estate was awarded £2 “for a heifer he disposed of,” according to early Nashville court records.
“David Goin, Patrick Quigley, Betsy Kennedy, John Shockley, James Lumsley and William Neely” were killed at Mansker’s Station, according to “Early Times in Middle Tennessee” published in 1857 by John Carr. Davidson Co, TN   1783 March 4: William Goings was granted administration of David Goins estate (David Goins killed by Indians at Mansker’s Station) by the Committee of the Cumberland Association. [ref. 44b].  Davidson County, North Carolina
https://www.ancestry.com/interactive/3006/censuscumberland-001201_44?pid=953&backurl=http://search.ancestry.com/cgi-bin/sse.dll?_phsrc%3DPXv360%26_phstart%3DsuccessSource%26usePUBJs%3Dtrue%26gss%3Dangs-c%26new%3D1%26rank%3D1%26msT%3D1%26gsln%3DGoin%26gsln_x%3D0%26msypn__ftp%3DNorth%2520Carolina,%2520USA%26msypn%3D36%26msypn_PInfo%3D5-%257C0%257C1652393%257C0%257C2%257C0%257C36%257C0%257C0%257C0%257C0%257C0%257C%26msypn_x%3D1%26msypn__ftp_x%3D1%26cpxt%3D1%26cp%3D12%26catbucket%3Drstp%26MSAV%3D1%26MSV%3D0%26uidh%3Dm37%26pcat%3DCEN_1790%26h%3D953%26recoff%3D8%252020%26dbid%3D3006%26indiv%3D1%26ml_rpos%3D1&treeid=&personid=&hintid=&usePUB=true&_phsrc=PXv360&_phstart=successSource&usePUBJs=true#?imageId=censuscumberland-001201_44

1783 July 1: William Gowen plaintiff in lawsuit against John Gibson concerning cattle belonging to the estate of David Gower, deceased, before the Committee of the Cumberland Association [ref. 49b]. Davidson County, North Carolina
https://www.ancestry.com/interactive/3006/censuscumberland-001201_44?pid=953&backurl=http://search.ancestry.com/cgi-bin/sse.dll?_phsrc%3DPXv360%26_phstart%3DsuccessSource%26usePUBJs%3Dtrue%26gss%3Dangs-c%26new%3D1%26rank%3D1%26msT%3D1%26gsln%3DGoin%26gsln_x%3D0%26msypn__ftp%3DNorth%2520Carolina,%2520USA%26msypn%3D36%26msypn_PInfo%3D5-%257C0%257C1652393%257C0%257C2%257C0%257C36%257C0%257C0%257C0%257C0%257C0%257C%26msypn_x%3D1%26msypn__ftp_x%3D1%26cpxt%3D1%26cp%3D12%26catbucket%3Drstp%26MSAV%3D1%26MSV%3D0%26uidh%3Dm37%26pcat%3DCEN_1790%26h%3D953%26recoff%3D8%252020%26dbid%3D3006%26indiv%3D1%26ml_rpos%3D1&treeid=&personid=&hintid=&usePUB=true&_phsrc=PXv360&_phstart=successSource&usePUBJs=true#?imageId=censuscumberland-001201_44

1784 Apr 15 (date survey ordered – No. 1046, Davidson Co, TN, 640 acres, Grant No. 20, Issued Apr 17, 1786, Warrant No. 116, Book 66, Page No. 40, On the E. Branches of Mill Creek.
1784 Apr 15 – Order for survey – … direct you to measure lay off and survey a preemption of 640 acres of land for William Going on a small branch of Mill Creek running into sd creek on the East side about 3 miles above the old trace to Stones River … line between him and Ebenezer Titis …
https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/3:1:3QS7-99WN-PSB9?i=317&cat=695114
1785 Mar 16 – Surveyed for William Gowan 640 acres of land lying on the branches of Mill Creek … on Ebenezer Titus E boundary line … Thomas Thompson and William Hambleton are chain carriers.
Land warrants, Davidson County, Tennessee, no. 978-1164 http://www.nclandgrants.com/grant/?mars=12.14.2.1043&qid=82716&rn=4
https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/3:1:3QS7-89WN-PSLX?i=319&cat=695114

1786 April: “Ambrose Goins,” regarded as a kinsman of William Gowen appeared briefly in Davidson County in 1786. He must have been a resident there because he was summoned to serve on a jury panel in April 1786. The fierce Indian attacks on the Cumberland settlement may have prompted him to return east. Davidson Co, TN

1788 Jan: The Davidson County Court Minute Book records that “William Gowens” sued the heirs of “David Gowens” in the January, 1788 session of court. The defendants, unnamed, did not appear in court, and the court awarded to the plaintiff “£7:14:3 in damages.” A writ of attachment [legal means of seizure] was granted by the court to William Gowen October 9, 1788, and the sheriff was ordered to sell the land. Davidson Co, TN

1788 March 11: On March 11, 1788, William Gowen received his title from the State of North Carolina to his 640-acre land grant, according to Davidson County Deed Book A, page 161. Davidson Co, TN.

1788 Oct 9 – William Gowen v. The heirs of David Gowen decd – William Gowen pleads the estate of David Gowen is justly indebted to him L 27.14.3. Oath that the heirs of the sd Gowen are not resident in this county or otherwise are unknown to him. William Gowen asks the sheriff to attach the estate of David Gowen to pay his debts. Jury finds for Plt. Davidson Co, TN – Court of Pleas and Quarter Sessions court records, 1783-1789 p. 110. https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/3:1:3Q9M-CSKX-M3LD-Q?i=62&cat=134460

1790 July William Gowen died in Davidson County sometime before July 1790 at about age 70. Harriette Simpson Arnow, writing in “Flowering of the Cumberland,” states that William Gowen was “killed,” suggesting that he, too, was a victim of the Indians.
Cleve Weathers wrote, “The uncertainties of life in the Mero District are partially reflected in an account by Harriette Simpson Arnow, in a section of her book dealing with Indian warfare and the role of women. From “Flowering of the Cumberland,” published by The Macmillan Company, 1963, page 31:
‘Around two-thirds of the wives of the original settlers were widowed before the ending of the Indian Wars in Middle Tennessee in 1795. Numerous others, settling later–Mesdames Anthony and Isaac Bledsoe, Edwin Hickman, Jacob Castleman, John Donelson, Sr., Henry Rutherford, William Ramsey, to name only a few, were also widowed.’” Davidson Co, TN https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/3:1:3QSQ-G9WN-TCQY?i=516&cat=695114

1790 July 12 On July 12, 1790 the County Court granted a court order to “Sarah Gowens” authorizing her to sell the estate of her husband. In Davidson County Will Book 1, page 168 Sarah Gowen, administrator of the estate of her husband, returned an inventory of the estate of “William Gowen deceased of Davidson County, North Carolina” listing “one mare & colt, saddles, farm and carpenter’s tools, shoemaker tools, razor, guns, household goods, cotton cards, six pounds of powder, eight pounds of lead, eight dry cows, eight steers, ducks, hens, some money and bonds.” Davidson Co, TN
https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/3:2:77TV-1M3J?i=106&cc=1909088&cat=307760 (Inventory Bk 1, pg 168)

1792 Sept 17 – Affidavit / appointment of John Goyen as power of atty to sell land in Davorson County, NC – as David Goyen (brother of Levi), had gone to the Cumberland River and was killed by Indians some 14 years earlier – 640 acres of land). Levi called “Mulatto” – John Goyen called “Gentleman”. (see links below for full text – very difficult to read due to shadows on document):
Fairfield County:
“Before me personally appeared Becky Elliot formerly Becky Gowen by a former husband David Gowen and after be duly sowrn deposith and said that she had a son by the afore David ____ David Goyen who about fourteen years ago left this county land as she was informed went to Cumberland River in N Carolina and was there killed by the Indians. The deponent further saith on oath that Levi Gowen who now appoints John Gowen of his attorney is the full and oldest brother to the aforesaid David Gowen.
Sworn tby affidavit this 17th day of Sept 1792 before me Benj Boyd J. FC.
Becky Elliot (x her mark)
Fairfield County: I hereby certify that the above named Levi Gowen ___ as the County for a free Mulatto got i ward was born her.
Given under my hand this 17th day of September 1792.”
Benj Boyd J. FC.
Fairfield Co, SC  (FamilySearch link – much clearer):  https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/3:1:3Q9M-CSKW-JQSR-Z?i=344&cat=207758 ,  http://www.ken-shelton.com/Fairfield/Deeds/Bond_A/Bond_A_0135a.tif
http://www.ken-shelton.com/Fairfield/Deeds/Bond_A/Bond_A_0136a.tif

1792 Sept 30: “A William Goin/Gowen and a John Goin/Gowens, who were old enough to fight, were at the siege on Buchanan’s Station in Davidson County, Tennessee in September 1792. This was a famous battle at Maj. John Buchanan’s Station or Buchanan’s Fort occurring around midnight on September 30, 1792.
Word had gotten to the settlers of a large body of Indians coming from East Tennessee with apparent plans to attack them. About 15 families congregated in Buchanan’s Station for security. Most of the defenders can be identified as living to the east of Buchanan’s Station, such as the Shanes who lived about 5 miles to the east on Stones River. Widow Sarah Gowen’s house was about 1.5 miles southeast of Buchanan’s Station. Buchanan’s Station was one of the more substantial stations and was strategically located nearer to Ft. Nashboro, i.e. a place of comparative safety. Maj. John Buchanan was born at Harrisburg, Pennsylvania January 12, 1759.
The eight-page narrative written by John Buchanan Todd, who was in the fort at the time of the attack and was about 10 years old, is a little known first-hand account of the battle. John Buchanan Todd was a nephew of the owner of the fort, Maj. John Buchanan, and the son of James Todd. “The Lyman Draper Papers,” Tennessee State Library & Archives, Manuscript Accession No. 29, series XX, Vol. 6, frame 68, state in part:
“The names of the defenders of the station were Maj. John Buchanan, commander, John McCrary, James Mulherrin, James Bryant, Wm Turbull [sic], Wetherell Lattimore, Robt. Castbolt, Thomas Kennedy, Abram Kennedy, Morris O’Shane, John Tony [?sp], Geo. Davidson, Thomas Wilcox, Jos. Crabtree, John Goin [sic], Wm Goin [sic] & James Todd.”
See another account of attack in J. G. M. Ramsey’s “Annals of Tennessee,” copyrighted 1853, pub. 1860, pp. 566-67.
“An Account of the 1792 Attack on Buchanan’s Station
Knoxville Gazette
Knoxville, Wednesday, October 10
“On the 30th of September, about midnight, John Buchanan’s station, four miles south of Nashville [at which sundry families had collected, and fifteen gun­men] were attacked by a party of Creeks and Lower Cherokees, supposed to consist of three or four hundred.
Their approach was suspected by the running of cattle that had taken fright at them, and upon examination, they were found rapidly advancing within ten yards of the gate, and from this place and distance they received the first fire from the man who discovered them [John M’Rory]. They immediately returned the fire, and con­tinued a very heavy and constant firing upon the station [block-houses surrounded with a stockade] for an hour, and were repulsed with considerable loss, without in­juring man, woman or child in the station.
During the whole time of the attack, the Indians were never more distant than ten yards from the Block House, and often in large numbers close round the lower walls, attempting to put fire to it. One ascended the roof with a torch, where he was shot, and falling to the ground, renewed his attempts to fire the bottom logs, and was killed. The Indians fired 30 balls through a port hole or the overjuting, which lodged in the roof in the circumstances of a hat, and those sticking in the walls on the outside are innumerable.
“Upon viewing the ground next morning, it appeared, that the fellow who was shot from the roof, was a Cherokee halfbreed, of the Running Water, known by the whites by the name of Tom Turnbridge’s step son, the son of a French woman by an Indian; and there was much blood, and sign that many dead had been dragged off, and litters having been made to carry the wounded to their horses which they had left a mile from the sta­tion.
Near the block house were found, several swords, hatchets, pipes, kettles, and budgets of different Indian articles; one of the swords was a fine Spanish blade, and richly mounted in the Spanish fashion. In the morning previous to the attack, Jonathan Gee and Savard[?] Clayton were sent out as spies; and on the ground, among other articles left by the Indians, were found a handkerchief and a moccasin, known one to belong to Gee and the other to Clayton, hence it sup­posed they are killed.
Undoubted advices have been received that as early as the 18th of September, as many as five hundred Creeks passed the Tennessee, at the lower Cherokee towns, and below, on their way as they declared, to make war on Cumberland, and that they were joined by about one hundred Cherokees of those towns. This may have been the party that attacked Buchanan’s Station. Dreadful havoc was expected, but it is now hoped that the check they have received, will induce them to return without making further attempts upon that settlement.”
Walter T. Durham, writing in “Kasper Mansker: Cumberland Frontiersman,” stated that the defenders at Buchanan’s Station employed a small swivel cannon to terrorize the Indians. Thus the 15 defenders were able to withstand the hundreds of Indians. Kasper Mansker borrowed the cannon in 1795 when he joined the Chickasaw Indians in their battle against the Creeks. The little cannon was very decisive in defeating the Creeks.

1792 Oct 30 (date survey ordered) – No. 1822, Davidson Co, TN, 640 acres, Grant No. 395. Issued June 26, 1793, Warrant No. 115. Entered Jan 15, 1784.Book 80, pg 340. On the E side of Mill Creek
1792 Oct 30 – Order for survey – To the surveyor … lay off and survey a preemption of 640 acres of land for John Gowen assignee of Levi Gowen heir of David Gowen decd, lying on the south side of Cumberland on the E side of Mill Creek about a mile above Henderson’s old line that had laide to Stone River … and a tree markd WG … entry No. 115 Jan 15, 1784 …
https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/3:1:3QSQ-G9WN-TCWL?i=514&cat=695114
1792 Nov 13 – Mero Dist, Davidson County. No. 115 John Gowen 640 acres.
By virtue of a warrant No. 115 located Jan 15 1784 I have surveyed for John Gowen a preemption of 640 acres of land lying on the East side of Mill Creek beginning at a whit walnut on the bank of said creek being the NW corner of James Menees’ guardrite on the E boundary line of said Menees preemption … on Ebenezer Titus’ west boundary line … William Gowen and Luke Anderson are chain carriers.
Land warrants, Davidson County, Tennessee, no. 1712-1933
https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/3:1:3QSQ-G9WN-TCQY?i=516&cat=695114

1793 Jun 26 – John Gowen fr State of North Carolina 640 acre grant … lying and being in our County of Davidson on the East side of Mill Creek. on West corner of James Meness Guard rign on the East bounding line of said Meness preemption … on Ebenezer Titus’ west boundary line .. surveyed for the said John Gowen Nov 13, 1792 … in consequence of warrant No 115 entered Jan 15 1784 … Deed bk C, p 281. Davidson County, TN.
https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/3:1:3Q9M-CS54-93BX-J?i=483&cat=229234

1795 Sept 19 On September 19, 1795 “John Gowen of Davidson County” bought 1,920 acres of land “on the east side of Stone’s River on Spring Creek” at a sheriff’s sale.

1795 Dec 30 John Gowen bought 81 acres on Stone’s River at a sheriff’s sale December 30, 1795, according to Davidson County Deed Book D, page 40.  John Gowen bought 81 acres on Stone’s River at the same sale on December 30, 1795, according to Davidson County Deed Book D, page 40. John Gowen received a deed on the same day to 50 acres on Stone’s River, according to Davidson County Deed Book D, page 40. Apparently the land, which was sold for delinquent taxes, lay in adjoining plots. https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/3:1:3Q9M-CS4R-1S9L-V?i=50&cat=229234 (John Gowen)   1795 Dec 30 – John Gowen fr fr Nicholas Perking Hardiman Sheriff and Collector … taxes on 1920 acres lying in Davidson County and on the waters of Stones River the property of Stephen Brooks … public auction on Sept 19, 1795 of a certain tract or parcel of land containing 81 acres and 3/4ths …. lying on the waters of Stones River on the first creek above Stewarts Creek on the East side of the River …. John Gowen who was the highest bidder … – Deed bk D, p 40. Davidson County, TN.
https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/3:1:3Q9M-CS4R-1S9L-V?i=50&cat=229234

1795 Dec 30 On December 30, 1795 William Gowen received a deed to 150 acres on Stone’s River which he bought at a sheriff’s sale, according to Davidson County Deed Book D, page 38.They received their deeds July 11, 1796 from Sheriff Nicholas Perkins Hardeman, according to Davidson County Court minutes.  1796 Aug 2: Nicholas Perkins Hardeman, sheriff of Davidson, to William Gowen 150 acres on Stone River. Deed Bk D, pg 38. Davidson Co, TN
https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/3:1:3Q9M-CS4R-1S91-M?i=11&cat=229234 (William Gowen)

1797 Dec 30 John Gowen received a deed to 201 acres on Mill Creek December 30, 1797 from Jonathan Phillips, according to Davidson County Deed Book D, page 388.  1797 Dec 30 – John Gowen fr Jonathan Philips – 201 acres on Mill Creek, … Signed: Jonathan Phillips DS. Wits: William Black, Andrew Ewing. Deed bk D, p 388. Davidson County, TN. https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/3:1:3Q9M-CS4R-1S93-V?i=224&cat=229234 ;   https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/3:1:3Q9M-CS4R-1S93-V?i=224&cat=229234

1798 Mar 10 – John Gowen to Jonathan Phillips – 150 acres Mill Cr – part of a tract of 640 acres granted to the sd John Gowen by Patent No. 395 dated June 26th 1793, originally entered in the name of David Gowen’s heirs etc No. 115 Jan 15 1784 and transfered to the sd John Gowen Oct 30, 1792 … Signed: John Gowen LS. Wit: Andrew Ewing. Deed bk D, p 416. Davidson County, TN.
https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/3:1:3Q9M-CS4R-1S99-L?i=238&cat=229234

1798 Apr – John Gowen to William Right – … John Gowen for and in consideration of the sum of 300 dollars to him in hand paid by the sd William … conveyed a certain tract or parcel of land containing … 100 acres ... in the County of Davidson on the East side of Mill Creek and bounded … the SW corner of the land sd Right now lives on … Signed: John Gowen LS. Wit: Beverly Ridley and George Titus. Deed bk D, p 378. Davidson County, TN.  https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/3:1:3Q9M-CS4R-1S9Q-4?i=219&cat=229234

1798 May 12 On May 12, 1798 John Gowen witnessed a bill of sale of “a negro wench named Judy” from Simon McClendon to John Blackman, according to Davidson County Will Book 1, page 148.

1799 Nov 9 – John Gowen to William Gallaspy … John Gowen for and in consideration of the sum of 300 dollars to him in hand paid … conveyed a certain tract or parcel of land lying and being in the County of Davidson on the Waters of Mill Creek and bounded … on James Tatems West boundary line being William Right’s north east corner on the East bank of Mill Creek at Hagues ford … on the West boundary line of George Neville’s original survey … containing by estimation 238 acres …Signed: John Gowen. Wit: H. Tatum. Deed bk E, p 173. Davidson County, TN.
https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/3:1:3Q9M-CS4R-1SQ8-N?i=370&cat=229234

1800 Jan – Inventory of Allen Gowen decd estate, admin William Gowen. Bk 2. pg 166. Davidson Co, TN  https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/3:2:77TV-1MCH?i=277&cc=1909088&cat=307760

1800 May 14 – Sale of Estate of Allen Gowen decd. Bk 2, pg 171. Davidson Co, TN
https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/3:2:77TV-1MC8?i=280&cc=1909088&cat=307760

1801 Sept 5 – John Gowen fr Thomas Williams – … Thomas Williams for and in consideration of the sum of 300 dollars … confirm unto the said John Gowen … a certain tract or parcel of land containing 100 acres lying on the North side of Cumberland River on the first Little Creek above Blooming Grove to adjoin Robert Nelders claim at both sides .. entered in the military office Dec 6, 1785 No 1653… Signed: Thomas Williams. Wit: James Gowen and John Hightower. Deed bk E, p 337. Davidson County, TN
https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/3:1:3Q9M-CS4R-1S32-9?i=458&cat=229234

1801 Oct 30 John Gowen was married to Lydia Shute October 30, 1801, according to “Davidson County, Tennessee Marriages, 1788-1850.”

1802 May 1 – … between John Gowen of Davidson County and State of Tennessee on the one part and Robert C Foster of the County and State aforesd … in consideration of the sum of 750 dollars in hand paid the said John Gowen .. sold unto the said Rober C Foster a certain tract or parcel of land situate lying and being in the County and State aforesd on the waters of Mill Creek … William Wrights NW corner … containing 150 acres … Signed: John Gowen. Wits: Bennett Searcy and B J Bradford. Deed bk E, p 357. Davidson County, TN.
https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/3:1:3Q9M-CS4R-1S3J-L?i=468&cat=229234

1802 July – Settlement of Estate of Allen Gowen decd, William Gowen admin, Joseph Gowen bond, James and Robert McCuiston. Bk 2, pg 252. Davidson Co, TN. https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/3:2:77TV-1MZP?i=322&cc=1909088&cat=307760

1802 July 15 – … between Pickins Hardiman late Sheriff of the County of Davidson and State of Tennessee of the one part and John Gowen of the County and State aforesd of the other part … certain lots in the town of Nashville taken to satisfy a judgment obtained by Andrew Davis against David Allison at Jan Sessions 1794 … Interest of the said David Allison to a certain town lot in the Town of Nashville known by No 99 in the Plan of the said town which was purchased by John Gowen who was the highest bidder .. convey and confirm unto the said John Gowen … Lot No 99 lying in the Town of Nashville … Signed: N P Hardiman. Wit: John Naudman, John Boyd Jr. Deed bk E, p 378. Davidson County, TN
https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/3:1:3Q9M-CS4R-1S3N-R?i=478&cat=229234

1802 July 15 – … between John Gowen of the one part and to Robert C Foster of the other part each of the County of Davidson and State of Tennessee … that the sd John Gowen for and in consideration of the sum of 100 dollars to him in hand paid … sold unto the said Robert C Foster a certain lot of ground lying in the Town of Nashville and distinguished in the Plan of the said Town by No 99... Signed: John Gowen. Deed bk E, p 378. Davidson County, TN
https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/3:1:3Q9M-CS4R-1S3N-R?i=478&cat=229234

1803 Aug 5 On August 5, 1803 John Gowen sold this plot for $40, according to Davidson County Deed Book F, page 462. Later in that year the land lay in the newly created Rutherford County.

1806 July 15: On Tuesday, July 15, 1806 “John Goine,” administrator of the estate of James Gay deceased. returned to the Williamson County Court an inventory of the estate, according to “Williamson County, Tennessee Court Minutes, 1808-1812,” page 4. On page 5 another entry reads, “Jno. Gayne, administrator returns inventory, chattels and credits of James Gay, dcsd.”

1806 November 18 – John Gowen fr Elisha Prewett – bounded by … Joseph Gowen … David Howell’s corner… 372 acres … Signed: Elisha Prewett. Wits: Joseph Gowen, James Gowen, Reas Howell. Deed bk E, p 425. Rutherford Co, TN. https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/3:1:3Q9M-CSKH-CSSK-L?i=220&cat=358486

1808? Aug 5 – … between John Gowen of the County of Davidson and State of Tennessee of the one art and William Nash of the County and State above written of the other part … John Gowen in consideration of $40 to him in hand paid by the said William Nash … convey to said William Nash … a certain tract or parcel of land situate … in the County of Davidson on the East side of Stones River and on the first creek above Stewarts Creek now called Spring Creek … containing 81 and 3/4 acres, being part of a tract of 640 acres granted to Stephen Brook and sold by … Perkins Hardiman sheriff and collector … for Davidson County … 1795 for the taxes on 1920 acres which land was purchased by John Gowen the 19th day of September 1795 … being the highest bidder … Signed: John Gowen. Wits: Wm Chatman, John Cacan. Deed bk F, p. 462 Rutherford Co, TN. https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/3:1:3Q9M-CSKH-CSSV-L?i=239&cat=358486

1806 Dec 13 It is believed that John Gowen assisted his brother, James H. Gowen who had apparently settled north of the Cumberland River, in selling his inheritance from their father. An advertisement offering to sell the northern 240 acres of the original pre-emption was inserted in a Nashville newspaper in its edition of December 13, 1806. The land was described as “containing 240 acres and lying on the main road from Nashville to Jefferson [early name of Murphreesboro] sold by James H. Gowen June 2, 1807 to Daniel Vaulx, a neighbor. Daniel Vaulx was a member of Capt. Belk’s militia in its muster of 1812. Other members of this militia company at that time were Lt. William Gowen, his brother, John Gowen and Charles Crutchfield.

1806 Dec 18 On December 18, 1806 “John Gowan of Davidson County” purchased from Elisha Prewitt 372 acres on Cripple Creek, land that originally granted to Samuel Pearson, according to Rutherford County Deed Book E, page 425. This land adjoined that of Joseph Gowen. In December 1806 John Gowen bought from Elisha Prewitt 372 acres of land “beginning at Joseph Gowen’s northeast corner,” according to Rutherford County deed records. “Joseph Gowen, James F. Gowen and R. Howell” witnessed the transaction. On December 18, 1806 “John Gowan of Davidson County” completed the transaction, paying Elisha Prewitt $150 for the 372 acres of land located on “Cripple Creek of Stone’s River” which was a part of a tract of land originally granted to Samuel Pearson by the state of North Carolina, probably for military services. This transaction was recorded in Rutherford County Deed Book E, page 425. “Reed Howell, Joseph Gowen and James Gowen” again were witnesses. Joseph Gowen and his son, James F. Gowen are regarded as cousins to John Gowen.

1807 Jun 2 – … between James Gowen of the County of Davidson and the State of Tennessee of the one part and Daniel Vaulx of the County and State aforesaid of the other part … James Gowen for and in consideration of the sum of 1500 dollars to him in hand paid … confirmed a certain tract or parcel of land lying and being in the County of Davidson and bounded … originally granted to William Gowen … containing 240 acres… Signed: James Gowen. Wit: H. Tatum, Cary Felts, James Vaulx. Deed bk G, p 199. Davidson, County, TN.
https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/3:1:3Q9M-CSKH-CSDW-6?i=104&cat=229234

1809 John Gowen was shown as a taxpayer in Rutherford County in 1809, paying $1.10¼ on 590 acres of land. He was the only Gowen taxpayer to be assessed in the county in that year. In 1811 he paid taxes on 560 acres of land–$1.39. In 1813 he paid $1.50 tax on 560 acres of land.

1809 March 1 – … between Joseph Gowen of the County of Bedford of the one part and William Gowen of the County of Rutherford and State of Tennessee of the other part … said Joseph Gowan for and in consideration of the sum of 150 dollars to him in hand paid by the said William Gowan … convey and confirm unto the said William Gowen … a certain tract or parcel of land situate lying and being in the County of Rutherford and State aforesaid on the South side of Cumberland River on the Waters of the East for of Stones River the waters of Cripple Creek where William Gowen now lives. … the corner of Teageu Lot fence on the bank of the branch … David Howels line … 150 acres … Signed: Joseph Gowan. Wit: Elijah Smith, Magness Teague, Joseph Teague, Benjamin Todd. – Deed bk H, p 24 Rutherford County, TN https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/3:1:3Q9M-CS4H-DCMH?i=12&cat=358486

1813 July 16 – … between Joseph Gowen of the County of Rutherford and State of TN on the one part and William Gowen of the County and State aforesaid of the other part … the said Joseph Gowen for and in consideration of the sum of 100 dollars paid to him in hand by the said William … sold unto him the said William Gowen … a certain tract or parcel of land situate … in the County and State aforesaid on the waters of Cripple Creek, the Waters of the East Fork of the Stones River, bounded … Benjamin McFarlins SW corner … Samuel Howell’s line … William Gowen’s corner … branch of Cripple Creek … containing 40 acres … Wits: Francis Youril, Charles Lowe … bk K, p 38. Rutherford Co, TN. https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/3:1:3Q9M-CS4H-DHW9?i=254&cat=358486

1814 April 11 – … between Joseph Gowen of the County of Rutherford … of the one part and William Gowen of the County and State aforesaid … Joseph Gowen for and in consideration of the sum of 100 dollars paid to him by the said William … sold unto him the said William Gowen … a certain tract or parcel of land situated … in the County and State aforesaid on the waters of Cripple Creek, the waters of the East fork of Stones bounded as follows … on the North bank of the branch, one of said William Gowen’s corners … Samuel Howell… containing 10 acres more or less … Signed: Joseph Gowen. Deed bk K, p 44 Rutherford Co, TN. https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/3:1:3Q9M-CS4H-DH42?i=257&cat=358486

1818 Mar 20 – William Gowen to John Gowen 200 acres Mill Cr bk M, 338
1818 Mar 20 – John Gowen fr William Gowen – 200 acres Mill Creek – bk M, p 338.
… between William Gowen of the County of Davidson and State of Tennessee of the one part and John Gowen of the County and State aforesaid of the other part … William Gowen for and in consideration of the sum of 2300 dollars to him in hand paid .. conveyed a certain tract or parcel of land lying and being in the County of Davidson on the waters of Mill Creek … a corner between John Gowen and Daniel Vaulx … a corner between said Daniel Vaulx and William Gowen .. the SE corner of William Gowen preemption deceased … to a stake in John Gowen’s east boundary line … containing by estimation 200 acres ... Signed: William Gowen. Wit: Peter Wright, John Gowen Jr. Deed bk M, p 338. Davidson County, TN.
https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/3:1:3Q9M-CSKH-C934-Y?i=195&cat=229234

1823 May 5 John J. Gowen was married May 5, 1823 to Tabitha Hays, according to “Davidson County, Tennessee Marriages, 1788-1850.” Children born to John J. Gowen and Tabitha Hays Gowen are unknown.

1824 Jan 21 – John J Gowen fr John Gowen 175 acres Mill Creek – Deed bk Q, p 482. Davidson County, TN.
… between John Gowen of the County of Davidson and State of Tennessee of the one part and John J Gowen son of the said John Gowen of the other part … that the said John Gowen as well for and in coniseration of the natural love and affection which the said John Gowen hath and beareth unto the said John J Gowen hath given … confirm unto the said John J Gowen … all that tract or parcel of land lying on the waters of Mill Creek and bounded as follows .. William Vaulx south east corner … the southeast corner of a preemption granted to William Gowen ... a corner between John Gowen and Daniel Vaulx … containing 175 acres … Signed: John Gowen. Wit: Wilford B Gowen, Thomas Skeete. Deed Bk Q, p 482. Davidson County, TN.
https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/3:1:3Q9M-CSKH-82JD?i=270&cat=229234

1835 July 13 – date will is proved up in Davidson Co, TN.   1829 May 31 is date last will of John Gowen is written, names children. in Davidson County, TN.
In the name of God amen. I John Gowen of the County of Davidson and State of Tennessee do make ordain constitute and appoint this my last will. Item the first I wish my remaining interest in the space between the graves of my father and wife as the three graves to be enclosed with a stone fence or wall to be done at the expence of my two sons John J Gowen and Wilfred B Gowen as soon as they can conveniently do the same after my decease. I will and bequeath the farm I am now residing on to my two sons, John J Gowen and Wilfred B Gowen to be equally divided between them including the one hundred and seventy five acres that I have heretoforre gave my son John J Gowen. My stock of cattle and hogs and farming essential household and kitchen furniture I will to my son Wilfred B Gowen, what slaves I may possess at my decease I will and bequeath to my three daughters viz Nanda M Dunn, Minerva Hays, and Maria L Rains, said slaves to be equally divided between them by lot to be laid of by three disinterested persons if my said daughters cannot agree in a division themselves. My stock of horses I wish to be sold on a credit of twelve months and what debts I may owe at mey decease to be discharged from the proceeds of the sail of said stock of horses, the residue of money should there any remain after paying my just debts from said sail of horses to be equally divided between my above named daughters.
I appoint my two sons John J. Gowen and Wilfred B Gowen my executors to this my last will to take effect immediately after my decease. In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand this 31st day of May in the year of our lord 1829. (Signed) John Gowen. Attest: Thos King, W H? Laughlin.   https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/3:2:77TV-TRKB?i=597&cc=1909088&cat=266136 ,  https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/3:2:77TV-13CQ?i=273&cc=1909088&cat=307760 ,
https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/3:1:939L-6H93-P?i=2359&cc=1909193&cat=831631

John J Gowen son
Wilfred B Gowen son
Nanda M Dunn dau
Minerva Hays dau
Maria L Rains dau

Children of John Gowen:

1836 July 21 – Wilford B Gowen fr Lewis Williams and Charlotte M Williams of Davidson County, TN … in consideration of 350 dollars … paid by the said Wilford B Gowen … convey a parcel of land situate … in the County of Davidson … on Browns Creek .. to the tract of land on which John Rains Sr decd lived at the time of his death and which descended to us as heirs and devises of said John Rains decd supposed to contain 7 acres … Signed: Lewis Williams, Charlotte M Williams. Deed bk Y, p 489. Davidson County, TN. https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/3:1:3Q9M-CSKH-89RG-3?i=561&cat=229234

1836 Aug 15 – Wilford B Gowen fr Hyde, etal, Edmund – 7 acres Browns Creek, bk Y, p 491. (page missing on FamilySearch).

1836 Oct 10 – Wilford B Gowen etal to Joseph W Horton – Ld Browns Cr Deed bk Y, p 585. Davidson County, TN.
… between Wilford B Gowen and Ursula Gowen of the County of Davidson TN of the one part and Joseph W Horton … for and in consideration of the sum of 1617 dollars to them in hand paid by the said Joseph W Horton .. assigns forever a certain tract or parcel of land situate lying and being in the County aforesaid on the South side of Cumberland River on Browns Creek being part of John Rains preemption and being 1/2 of lot No 5 which was laid off and set apart to the heirs of William Rains in the division of said preemption amon the heirs of said John Rains decd … at the SW corner of lot No 4 which was assigned to Alfred P Gowen in said division in the Western boundary line of said preemption and runs East with said Alfred P Gowen’s line … to a stake in G Kearneys line … containing by estimation 24 acres and 142 square poles part of which land descended to said Gowen and said Ursula his wife as heirs of said William Rains and part of is conveyed to said Wilfred B by Edmund Hyde and Christina his wife and Lewis Williams and Charlotte his wife also heirs of said William Rans decd, and by Wilfred H Rains of of said heirs… Signed: W B Gowen, U Gowen. Deed bk Y, p 585. Davidson County, TN. https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/3:1:3Q9M-CSKH-89Y2-C?i=608&cat=229234

1837 May 16 – John Gowen land precessioned Deed bk 1, p 185. Davidson County, TN.
… request of Wilford B Gowan … preemption of land for 640 acres granted by the State of North Carolina to William Gowan dated 17 April 1786 and recorded in the Registers office in Davidson County on the 11th day of March 1788 in Book A page 161. William Vaulx, John J Gowan, Wilford B Gowan, John K Buchanan, Robart Buchanan, and Blackman Hays beign present. (Drawing attached showing 658 acres). Deed bk 1, p 185. Davidson County, TN.
https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/3:1:3Q9M-CSKH-8333-F?i=122&cat=229234

1838 Jan 24 – … between John J Gowen of Davidson County … and Hugh and John Kirkman of the County of Davidson … in consideration of the sum of 7000 dollars to him in hadnd paid by the said Hugh and John Kirkman … a certain tract … of land situate lying and being in the County of Davidson the East side of Mill Creek and bounded … at a stake William Vaulx and Wilford Gowen’s corner … on McLaughlins line … Jeremiah Ezels corner … 222 acres … Signed: John J Gowen. Wit: James Ellis, Charles Lymes. – Deed bk 1, p 415. Davidson County, TN.
https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/3:1:3Q9M-CSKH-83SX-Z?i=237&cat=229234

1842: A third tract of William Gowen‘s, consisting of 200 acres that remained in the hands of the Gowen family until 1842. At that time Wilford Burleson Gowen sold it to Jesse Collins, Davidson County Deed Book 5, page 153. In this deed, Wilford Burleson Gowen reserved “an area of 5 square poles [1 pole = 16.5′] that . . . includes the family grave yard, the right of which is reserved in me and my representatives forever.’”

1842 Jun 22 – John J Gowen to Silias Hoadley Ld Mill Cr bk 5, p 127. (Book Not Uploaded yet- check again here: https://www.familysearch.org/search/catalog/229234?availability=Family%20History%20Library ).

1842 Jul 18 – W B Gowen to Jesse Collins – 200 acs Davidson Co, bk 5, p 153. (Book Not Uploaded yet- check again here: https://www.familysearch.org/search/catalog/229234?availability=Family%20History%20Library ).

1842 Sept 23 – John Gowen to William H Allen Ld 5th Dist bk 5, p 292. (Book Not Uploaded yet- check again here: https://www.familysearch.org/search/catalog/229234?availability=Family%20History%20Library ).

1842 Oct 4 – John J Gowen to Isaac Paul etal Lt Market St bk 5, p 305 (Book Not Uploaded yet- check again here: https://www.familysearch.org/search/catalog/229234?availability=Family%20History%20Library ).

1842 Aug 10 – John J Gowen to Ann M Scruggs etal – Q C – bk 5, p 435 (Book Not Uploaded yet- check again here: https://www.familysearch.org/search/catalog/229234?availability=Family%20History%20Library ).

1844 Sept 24 – Wilfred P Gowen to Charles Hays – Ld Mill Cr bk 7, p 82 (Book Not Uploaded yet- check again here: https://www.familysearch.org/search/catalog/229234?availability=Family%20History%20Library ).

Summary of Gowen transactions in Davidson County:

Summary of Conveyances and Entries: 

Davidson Co, TN

David Gowin m Becky – 1781 estate inventory, 1783 William Gowen on bond for David Going decds estate, 1786 recd 640a on Mill Cr, 1788 recd 100a assigned to Col Reading Blunt, 1788 Pleads est of David Gowen is indebted to him,

William Gowen b. abt 1720 – d. 1790 m. Sarah Gowens, 1783 William Gowen on bond for David Going decds estate, 1783 William Gowen land grt, 1790 William Gowen decd estate was killed, 1818 William Gowen to John Gowen 200a on Mill Cr prev William Gowen decd,

John Gowen – 1784 recd 640a on Mill Cr w Levi Gowan a David Gowan mention, 1792 John Goyen pwr atty to sell 640a of David Goyen decd (eldest brother of Levi), 1793 deed 640 a with wit-William Gowen, 1795 John Gowen buys 81a on Stones Riv, 1797 John Gowen recd 201a on Mill Cr, 1798 sells 150a to John Phillips part of 640a grant in name of David Gowen’s heirs, 1801 John Gowen buys 100a w James Gowen wit, 1801 John Gowen m. Lydia Shute, 1806 John Gowan buys 372a adj Joseph Gowen w Joseph Gowen a James F. Gowen wits, 1818 William Gowen to John Gowen 200a on Mill Cr prev William Gowen decd, 1824 John J. Gowen fr father John Gowen 175a pt of preemption granted William Gowen decd wit Wilford B Gowen,
1835 will proven up – to be buried btw father and wife,
John J Gowen son
Wilfred B Gowen son
Nanda M Dunn dau
Minerva Hays dau
Maria L Rains dau

William Gowen – 1793 wits deed to John Gowen for 640a, 1795 William buys 150a on Stones Riv, 1797 m. Martha Rains dau of John Rains and Christiana Gowen Rains, 1797 recd 118a w Joseph Gowen wit, 1800 Allen Gowen decd estate – buyers William Gowen & Joseph Gowen, 1801 estate of Allen Gowen w William Gowen admin w Joseph Gowen bond, 1818 William Gowen to John Gowen 200a on Mill Cr prev William Gowen decd,

Allen Gowen – 1796 Allen of Davidson TN sells 300a in Spartanburg to Burrell Bobo of Spartanburg SC orig granted to Joseph Gowen – recd by lineal descent, 1797 recd 50a with Joseph Gowen wit, 1797 recd 118a w Joseph Gowen wit, 1800 Allen Gowen decd estate – buyers William Gowen & Joseph Gowen, 1801 estate of Allen Gowen w William Gowen admin w Joseph Gowen bond,

Joseph Gowen – 1797 buys 126a fr John Buchanan on Mill Cr, 1797 Joseph wits deed to Allen for 50a, 1797 recd 50a with Joseph Gowen wit, 1797 recd 118a w Joseph Gowen wit, 1797 recd 118a w Joseph Gowen wit, 1800 Allen Gowen decd estate – buyers William Gowen & Joseph Gowen, 1801 estate of Allen Gowen w William Gowen admin w Joseph Gowen bond, 1806 John Gowan buys 372a adj Joseph Gowen w Joseph Gowen a James F. Gowen wits,

James F. Gowen – 1801 John Gowen buys 100a w James Gowen wit, 1801 estate of Allen Gowen w William Gowen admin w Joseph Gowen bond, 1806 John Gowan buys 372a adj Joseph Gowen w Joseph Gowen a James F. Gowen wits,

James H Gowen – 1807 James Gowen sells land orig granted to Willaim Gowen 240a,

John J Gowen – 1823 m Tabitha Hays, 1824 John J. Gowen fr father John Gowen 175a pt of preemption granted William Gowen decd wit Wilford B Gowen, 1842 John J Gowen of Miss to W H Allen 186a, 1842 John J Gowen of Holmes Co MS to Isaac Paul of Davidson sell lot conveyed to him by Ann MDemoys & Achin, 1877 J J Gowen buys land at auction from sher

Wilford B Gowen – 1824 John J. Gowen fr father John Gowen 175a pt of preemption granted William Gowen decd wit Wilford B Gowen, 1830 Wilford B Gowen a wife Ursula to Wm A Cook, 1836 Wilford B Gowen fr Williams 7a on which John Rains Sr decd lived which descended to us as heirs, 1836 Wilford a wife Ursula to Horton 24a recd as heirs of John Rains decd descended to Wilford and Ursula as heirs to William Rains?(changes name in doc) – also part of it conveyed to Wilford Gowen by Edmund Hyde & Christiana his wife & Lewis Williams & Charlotte his wife & also heirs of said Wm Rains decd & by Wilford H Rains one of the heirs, 1837 Wilford B Gowan preemption of land for 640a granted to Wm Gowan dated 1786 w John J Gowan present, 1844 Wilford B to Charles Hays land on Mill Cr on corner of John Gowens orig tract 25a

Alfred P Gowen 1835 of Rutherford Co, TN to Isaac Paul 50a in division of est of John Rains Sr decd, 1836 Wilford a wife Ursula to Horton 24a recd as heirs of John Rains decd descended to Wilford and Ursula as heirs to William Rains?(changes name in doc) – also part of it conveyed to Wilford Gowen by Edmund Hyde & Christiana his wife & Lewis Williams & Charlotte his wife & also heirs of said Wm Rains decd & by Wilford H Rains one of the heirs, 1841 conveys to Gibson Merritt

John H Gowen – 1852 John H Gowen a Minerva J Gowen formerly Monees convey to Joseph W Dabbs as trustee … descending to her from estate of John E Menees her grandfather late of Davidson Co Tn … for the use of said Minerva J during her natural life and at her death to her children if any, if none then to the said John H Gowen cont 20a, 1857 Jos W Dabbs to John H Gowen for Dabbs interest in estate of Charles Hays decd

Amanda Malvina Gowen – 1871 Edward H East gift to daughter Amanda Malvina Gowen to equally divide land between his children 90a