1828/29 William W. Goyen m. Sarah Martha Bell of Mississippi (Y2)

William W. Goyen b. abt 1828/29 – d. June 10, 1864, m. Sarah Martha Bell

(Why all the different spellings? Click the following link for an explanation:   https://goyengoinggowengoyneandgone.com/goyen-family/).

Parents of William W. Goyen:

• Drury B. Goyen b. abt 1800 – d.  abt 1848 m Elizabeth Smith, daughter of John Smith of Union Co, SC.

Children of William W. Goyen and Sarah Martha Bell:

• Martha Elizabeth Goyen 1854-1935
• Anna Mae Goyen 1856-1895
• John Bell Goyen 1860-1912
• William S. Goyen 1862-1943

Siblings of William W. Goyen:

• John E. Going – 1826/27 abt – ? m Elizabeth McGill (evidence strongly suggests Drury is father)
• William W. Goyen – 1828/29 abt-1864 m Sarah Martha Bell (confirmed child of Drury B. Goyen)
• Ann Eliza Going – 1829 abt – 1894 m. Jason Fish  (evidence strongly suggests Drury is father)
• Theodocia Elvira Goyen – 1830 abt – 1916 m. Abraham Smith Davis 1810-1859, and then m. Thomas A. Avens 1809-1881 – no children (T. E. Going and T. D. Going are the same person as she was often called “Docea” – short for Theodocia).
• Nancy Chisholm Goyen – 1840 – 1922 m. Robert Neely Provine

Possible Siblings:

• Thomas B. Goyne – b. abt 1825 (It is possible this is Drury Goyen’s oldest child – it appears this Thomas B. Goyne is either the child of Drury B. Goyne, or is a cousin –  Possibly a child of James Goyne b. abt 1777 (James Goyne was a child of Drury Goyen b. 1749).

• Alabama – Pickens County
• Mississippi – Lowndes County
• Mississippi – Oktibbeha County
• Mississippi – Calhoun County
• Mississippi – Grenada County
• Mississippi – Yalobusha County
• South Carolina – Chester County
• South Carolina – Union County
• South Carolina – York County

FACTS and SOURCES:

Early Life:

William W. Goyen was born about 1827-29 in Chester County, South Carolina.  His father is Drury B. Goyen who married Elizabeth Smith.  Fires in the Alabama and Mississippi court houses have possibly destroyed the records that would identify his mother.

1) William W. Goyen’s father, Drury B. Goyen was living in York County, South Carolina according to the 1830 US Census when William W. Goyen would have been a young child.  At this time Drury B. Goyen was living with his wife, and 2 sons under the age of 5 (William W. Goyen b. abt. 1827-29, and John E. Going b. abt. 1827-29), and 1 daughter under the age of 5 (Ann Eliza Going b. abt 1829).

1830 US Census – Name: Drury Goings
Home in 1830 (City, County, State): York, South Carolina
Free White Persons – Males – Under 5: 2
Free White Persons – Males – 20 thru 29: 1
Free White Persons – Females – Under 5: 1
Free White Persons – Females – 20 thru 29: 1
Slaves – Males – Under 10: 1
Slaves – Females – 24 thru 35: 1
Free White Persons – Under 20: 3
Free White Persons – 20 thru 49: 2
Total Free White Persons: 5
Total Slaves: 2
Total – All Persons (Free White, Slaves, Free Colored): 7
Year: 1830; Census Place: York, South Carolina; Series: M19; Roll: 173; Page: 359; Family History Library Film: 0022507
https://www.ancestry.com/sharing/29701662?h=43e708

(1830 US Census in York County, South Carolina) https://www.ancestry.com/sharing/29701662?h=43e708

2) By 1837 – 1839 Drury B. Goyen appears to have moved and obtained land grants in Pickens County, Alabama – near where several Goyen (several spelling their names Goyne or Going) aunts, uncles and cousins had already settled.  He and his family lives in the Pickens County, Alabama area until at least the mid 1840s.

(Plat Map of Alabama with Drury B. Goyen’s 1837-1839 grants marked in Pickens County, Alabama – showing proximity to Lowndes County, Mississippi – where he appears next). (Click to Enlarge).

1839 June 21 – Joseph P. Prince v. Drury Gowings
In Chancery
The Answer of Drury Gowing, Guardian Ad Litem of William W. Gowings a minor to the Bill of Interpleader of Abram S Humphries the complainant. This Defendant answering to himself all right of exception to ch. said Bill of Interpleader for answer thereto saith that about the year 1824 or 1825 as he is informed and verily believe, one John Fernandes then a resident Citizen of Union District South Carolina purchased for Elizabeth Gowings at present the wife of the said Defendant & mother of the said William W. Gowing but who was then Elizabeth Smith a certain negro girl by the name of Milley then not more than 13 or 14 years of age.
And this Defendant further answering saith that the money with which said negro was purchased belonged (as he is informed & verily believes) to the said wife of this Defendant then Elizabeth Smith.
And whilst she was single and unmarried and the heir of her body, this Defendant further answering saith that he is informed and verily believes that the title to said negro Milley was by said John Farnandes vested in the said Elizabeth Smith and the heirs of her body as the money with which she had been purchased had been obtained from the sale of a negro which had been given to the said Elizabeth Smith and the heirs of her body by her father John Smith some years before.
This Defendant further answering saith that about the first of January AD 1839 that Abram S Humphries who had interpleaded in Ch Co. purchased from the said Elizabeth at that time the wife of this Defendant and the mother of the said William W. Gowing the said negro Milley and her three children Anthony about 6 years old, Maria about 4 years, and Willis about 2 years for the sum of 2000 dollars.
This Defendant further saith that 1100 dollars of this aforesaid sum was appropriated by the said Abram S Humphries by and with the consent of the said Elizabeth on the 19th day of January AD 1839 to the purchase of a certain negro woman by the name of Sarah and her two children Fayette and Oscar from one Olivia Clark then a citizen of the County of Winston in the State of Mississippi. All of which will more fully appear by reference to Exhibit marked A and which this Defendant prays may be made a part of his answer.
This Defendant further answering saith that a short time after this purchase of the last-mentioned slaves that said Abram S Humphries paid over to the said Elizabeth about four hundred dollars and a short term afterwards, some two or three hundred dollars more as this Defendant is informed and verily believes.
This Defendant further answering saith that the said Elizabeth being willing and anxious to secure to the heirs of her body as large a share as she could from the proceeds of the sale of the aforesaid negroes Milley and her three children requested the said Abram S Humphries to make and deliver to her minor son William W. Gowing a promissory note for the balance due from him on the purchase of the said Milley and her three children – which request was carried into effect by the said Abram S Humphries executing & delivering the note now in suit in the Circuit Court of Lowndes County, Mississippi wherein William W. Gowing by his next friend Drury Gowing (who is the Defendant) is Plaintiff and the said Abram S Humphries is Defendant.
This Defendant further answering saith that it was to arrest the progress of the aforesaid suit at law that the said Abram S. Humphries has interpleaded and restrained all further proceedings in said court.
This Defendant further answering saith that the negroes purchased as above mentioned by the said Abram S Humphries from the said Olivia Clark for the said Elizabeth & the heirs of her body are all that is left to the said Elizabeth & the heirs of her body of the aforesaid sum of 2000 dollars given by said Humphries for the said Milley and her three children except the amount now due on said not in suit – and that if said William W. Gowings is deprived of said sum of money that manifest injustice will be done him.
This Defendant further answering saith that the said Joseph P. Prince who now claims the amount of said note from said Abram S Humphries as garnishee should not in Equity and good conscience be permitted to have or possess the same as the said money belongs not to this Defendant but to the said William W. Gowing who is one of the minor heirs of the said Elizabeth Gowings.
This Defendant therefore prays that your Honor will protect & guard the interests of the said William W. Gowing from this and all other attempts to divest him of his just rights in the premises.
All of which matters and things this Defendant is ready and willing to aver, maintain, and prove as this Honorable Court shall direct & humbly prays to be ___ dismissed with his reasonable costs & charges in this behalf most wrongfully sustained.
Signed: Ace-Gray, Solicitors for Deft.
Note on last page: I have withdrawn Exhibit No. A from the papers to have it recorded in the Probate Clerks office of Lowndes County, Miss, August 11, 1842. A.S. Humphries.
Files Notes at top of Page: 3916 and 5251
Sheet 6, image b: indicates this is recorded in Book 24, Page 242, File 84.
Sheet 1, image a: Officer of Court v. Joseph P. Prince: indicated the case was dismissed on the 5th day of April 1842. No property found in the County on which to levy … 3916, 49 (Note: Drury Gowing won the suit and was attempting to collect his costs against Joseph P. Prince – who apparently had no property in the county)
Sheet 1, image b: State of Mississippi, Lowndes County – To the Sheriff of Lowndes County: Greeting, We command you, that the goods and chattles, lands and tenements of Joseph P Prince, late of your County, you cause to be made the sum of 25 dollars and 01 cents which Drury Gowing lately in our Circuit Court, hath recovered against him for costs about his defence in a certain action, at the suit of the said J P Prince. Whereof the said J P Prince is convicted as appears to us of record; and that you have the said moneis before the judge of our said court on the First Monday of October next, to render to the said Gowing use of Officers of Court for their costs aforesaid, – and have then there this writ. June 1st, 1842. Signed Sterling H Lester, Clerk. by Chas R Jordan.
Lowndes County, Mississippi. Circuit Court Records. Drury Gowing’s Answer: Case Number: CC3916-02b sheet 07, images a through e.  (NOTE: Ambram S. Humphries is Elizabeth Smith’s 1st cousin. Elizabeth Smith’s father John Smith and Abram S. Humphries mother Mary Smith were siblings (brother and sister). John Smith married Nancy Chisholm and Elizabeth Smith, the wife of Drury Gowing, is their daughter, and Mary Smith married John Jefferson Humphries, and Abram S. Humphries is their son).  (ALSO NOTE: John Farnandes mentioned in this answer is the son of Henry Farnandes who was sold some of Adam Chisholm decd’s land back in Union County, SC. Nancy Chisholm is the daughter of Adam Chisholm – Nancy Chisholm married John Smith – and Elizabeth Smith is their daughter – she is the wife of Drury B. Goyen/Gowing in this document … The Smiths, Humphries, Goings, Davis, Chisholms, and Alexanders  – all moved to the Pickens County, Alabama and Lowndes County, Mississippi area in the 1830s about the same time – and were related by marriage to one another). 

3) In 1843 Thomas B. Goyne had moved to Lowndes County, Mississippi according to Mississippi State tax records (just across the border from Pickens County, Alabama). Mississippi County Tax Roll Archives – Lowndes County – p. 21 and p. 22:  https://da.mdah.ms.gov/series/osa/s1202/lowndes/1843-personal-and-additional/detail/330214

(Note:  Thomas B Goyne is likely Drury B. Goyen’s cousin – Thomas B Goyne b. abt 1815-1821 is probably the son of Thomas B. Goyne b. 1789-95 living in Tuscaloosa Co, AL, or the son of James Goyne b. abt 1777 who’s widow Elizabeth Goyne moved to Tuscaloosa, AL shortly after his death in 1838 – both were uncles of Drury B. Goyen).  See Tuscaloosa Co, AL records:  https://goyengoinggowengoyneandgone.com/alabama-tuscaloosa-county/ ; and see James Goyne b. abt 1777’s page:  https://goyengoinggowengoyneandgone.com/1777-james-going-m-elizabeth-cook/ ; and see Thomas B. Goyne b. abt 1789-95 page:  https://goyengoinggowengoyneandgone.com/1789-thomas-baxter-going/ ; and see Thomas B. Goyne b. abt 1815-21’s page:  https://goyengoinggowengoyneandgone.com/1821-thomas-b-goyne-mississippi-louisiana-texas/  ).

4) The 1845 Lowndes County, Miss. Census and tax rolls show Drury Goings with 6 females and 5 males in his household. (possibly 5 daughters and 4 sons, including William W. Goyen).Mississippi County Tax Roll Archives – Lowndes County – p.80:  https://da.mdah.ms.gov/series/osa/s1202/lowndes/1845-personal/detail/329815

5) By 1846 Drury B. Gowens has moved to Oktibbeha County, and shows up on the Oktibbeha County, Mississippi tax rolls. Mississippi County Tax Roll Archives – Oktibbeha  County – p. 13:  https://da.mdah.ms.gov/series/osa/s1202/oktibbeha/1846-personal/detail/314450

Adult Life:

6) In 1847 Drury B. Going and William W. Going appear on the county tax rolls.   This indicating that William W. Goyen has moved out of Drury’s home.  This is the last document found with Drury B. Goyen listed.   It is assumed he must have died about this time.  William W. Goyen’s youngest sister, Nancy Goyen born 1840 (later married Provine), her biography (see Nancy Goyen’s page – click above under “siblings”) – the bio. indicates that she was orphaned at an early age and was brought up by siblings.  Drury B. Goyen and his wife must have died some time during 1847 or 1848.  Mississippi County Tax Roll Archives – Oktibbeha  County – p. 11 and p. 43:  https://da.mdah.ms.gov/series/osa/s1202/oktibbeha/1847-personal/detail/329803

7) After the death of his parents, William W. Goyen remains close with his grandmother (Docea Bland Goyen Plaxco) and his uncle Thompson McCluney’s family (where Docea Bland Goyen Plaxco lives).  Thompson McCluney had married Drury B. Goyen’s half sister, Elvira Plaxco.  Elvira had died some time in the 1830s, but had several children close to William W. Goyen’s age – who were his cousins.  Additionallly, at least two of William W. Goyen’s sister moves in with the McCluney family after the death of their parents (the sister who moved in with the McCluney family was Theodocea Elvira Goyen – these are in two separate letters – the same person – the “T” is for “Theodocea” – and “Docea” is what she was called).

8) The 1850 US Census in Lowndes County, MS shows William Goen living with the Dailey family along with several other 18-21 year olds, listed as a “student” … Letters he  writes shortly after this indicate he begins working as a teacher – this may have been the local “higher education”.   Name:  William Goen  Age:  21  Birth Year:  abt 1829  Birthplace:  Alabama  Home in 1850:  Lowndes, Mississippi, USA Gender: Male Family Number: 361 Household Members:

1850 US Census: Name: William Goen
Age: 21, Birth Year: abt 1829
Birthplace: Alabama
Home in 1850: Lowndes, Mississippi, USA
Gender: Male
Family Number: 361
Household Members:
Name Age
John A Dailey 52
Matilda W Dailey 46
Anne Dailey 19
Franklin O Dailey 17
Emma Dailey 15
James Dailey 12
Malinda Dailey 10
Thomas Dailey 7
Sarah Dailey 4
William Jones 18
Ewing Cameron 19
William Goen 21
Louisa Dumas 40
https://www.ancestry.com/sharing/29701672?h=b0d6c7

9) The 1850 US Census in Yalobusha County, Mississippi pages 406 – family 424 shows William W. Goyen’s 46 year old uncle Thompson McCluney living with his grandmother 80 year old Docia Plaxco (previously Going when married to Elijah Going, and maiden name of Docia Bland):

– Thompson McCluney – age 46 – Male – head of household – Planter – born in SC
– A. McCluney – age 21 – Female – born in SC
– John McCluney – age 20 – Male – born in SC
– Samuel McCluney – age 18 – Male – born in SC
– Thadeus McCluney – age 12 – Male – born in Ala.
– Docia Plaxco – age 80 – Female – born in SC
– Hugh Forbes – age 24 – Male – Laborer – born in SC
– Jas Stephens – age 19 – Male – Laborer – born in Miss https://www.ancestry.com/sharing/29701694?h=c2e3d3 ; https://www.ancestry.com/sharing/29701698?h=586a92

10) William W. Goyen meets and marries Sarah Martha Bell in 1851.  He is working as a school teacher at the time.  William W. Goyen boards at the home of Sarah Martha Bell’s father, Hugh Bell.   The following letters written by William W. Goyen from July to September of 1851 show his relationships with those in the McCluney household – and that he is married to Sarah Martha Bell in that time:

William W. Going’s letters written to E. D. Going and A. McCluney in July 1851:

Starkville, Miss mailed to Oakland, Miss

These were letters written to William W. Going’s sister E. D. Going (Elvira Docea Going), and his cousin Adeline McCluney. William W. Going was living in Starkville, Miss. at Hugh Bell’s home as a boarder (Hugh Bell was the father of Sarah Martha Bell – future wife of William W. Going). He had just finished teaching for the year. Elvira Going and Adeline McCluney were living with Thompson McCluney and Docea Plaxco – who was Thompson McCluney’s mother in law. Thompson McCluney was Adeline’s father, and William Going and Elvira Going’s uncle. Thompson McCluney had married Elvira Plaxco – who had died by the time these letters were written. Elvira Plaxco was half-sister to Drury Going. So Thompson McCluney was William W. Going’s uncle – and Docea Plaxco (maiden name was Docea Bland – she first had married Elijah Going and had two children – Drury Going, and Thomas Baxter Going. When Elijah Going died, she remarried to John Plaxco and they had Elvira Plaxco. So Docea Plaxco was William W. Going’s grandmother (his father’s mother).

The envelope the following letters came in was addressed to: Miss E. D. Goings, Oakland, Miss. The stamp on the envelope was Aug 4, 1851 – originating from Starkville, Miss. 1) The first letter addressed to “Dear Sister” – which is Miss E. D. Goings. Miss. – Oktibbeha County, July 29, 1851:

“Dear Sister – I embrace this opportunity of answering yours of June 10th which gave me great satisfaction to hear that you were all enjoying tollerably good health. It found me in good health. My health for the last few days has been rather delicate, but it is improving. Owing to the intensity of the heat and long continuance of this drought I concluded to defer coming down until fall.

My first session closed the 18th inst, and I will resume the second the 4th of August. I had quite an interesting examination and an excellent dinner given by the patrons and friends of my school. The Rev. Mr. Presley delivered an address suited to the occasion. All that was present was well pleased. Next session I shall have sevaral new schollars. I am well satisfied and am getting along with great facility. Since my school closed I have enjoyed myself finely.

Last week I road about and became acquainted with several young ladies, some of which I am greatly distressed about. This week we have had a protracted meeting at the 16 Dist. Section. I saw the Miss Burts and Miss Rife there. I can say but little about them except they are not married as yet and I suppose there is no probability of it soon.

I am still in the notion of settling myself next Fall though; if I could always have such a boarding house as I have now I would be satisfied to board. I have all the conveniences that I could ask for and nothing to pay. I am no boarding at the house of Mr. Bell the father of the beautiful Miss Bell I alluded to some time since. I intend to make a speech to Miss Bell in good earnest soon.

If you or cousin A either are going to marry I want you to write and I will com down without delay. If not I will not com before my school is out which will be the first of Dec.

The health of the country is good so far as my knowledge extends. Crops are very short in this vicinity owing to the drought. So nothing more.

Give my best love and respect to all and more especially to Granma. Tell her I want to see her very much. I am your most affectionate Brother until death. Wm. W. Goings“

2) The following second part of this July 29, 1851 letter was from William W. Going to his cousin – A. E. McCluney.

Miss A. E. McCluney

“Dear Cousin, I was greatly moved when I heard of your illness, but glad to hear that you are getting better when Sister wrote. I am sorry to say to you that owing to the delicacy of my health that I shall have to defer paying you a visit until fall. Nothing is more painful to me than to defer a visit in which I have anticipated as much pleasure. At this time I have vacation. I have enjoyed my self finely for the past week, and am getting along most admirably both in school and out of school.

I spend my evenings in conversation with a very amiable and intelligent young lady who shares the greater part of my affections and is sweet and consoling to me. I vainly cherish the hope that my love is reciprocated by her.

However, I have pledged myself not to give my hand in matrimony until I see Miss P of whom you have spoke of, and I am resolved to stick to my integrity if Miss P does not marry, which I hope she will not do before I come down. Though the time may seem long the fleeting moments will soon rool round. If it be the will of God for us to live we may then be blessed.

Think not hard of me dear cousin for not coming sooner, for I want to see you all worse than you can want to me. Write soon as this comes to hand. Give my respect to all and believe me I am your Affectionate cousin until death. Wm. W. Going to Miss McC“

OKTIBBEHA COUNTY, MS: 

11) Locations of Going / Goyen lands and related families in Oktibbeha County, MS:

(SEE Martha Elizabeth Goyen’s page – oldest child of William W. Goyen):  Click Here:  https://goyengoinggowengoyneandgone.com/1854-martha-elizabeth-goyen/

(Note: The following map shows two of the lots purchased by Ethridge M. Fish to be directly next door to both William W. Goyen and his brother John E. Going in Oktibbeha County, MS.   A “Jason Fish” married Anne Elizabeth Going/Goyen – (she is the sister of William W. Goyen and John E. Going).   Jason Fish and Anne Elizabeth Going Fish moved to Drew County, Arkansas before 1860 – so did Anne’s brother John E. Going):

12) The above Ethridge M Fish appears to have likely been a brother or uncle to Elias Fish – father of Jason S Fish.  Elias Fish must have moved out of Oktibbeha prior to the 1850 US Census.

13) (See also):   Jason S Fish biography indicates he moved to Drew County, Arkansas in 1856 from Oktibbeha Co, MS:   “Janson S. Fish is one of Lincoln County’s leading citizens, and was born in Fairfield District, S. C., on august 23, 1826, being the son of Elias and Cynthia (McKance) Fish, native of New York and South Carolina, respectively. The father came from South Carolina, and after his marriage moved first to Georgia, and later to Alabama, then to Mississippi, back to Georgia, and finally to Texas about 1855, where he died. Janson spent his school days in Georgia, Alabama and Mississippi, and when twenty-one years old commenced farming for himself. he located in Arkansas in 1856, on the farm where he now resides. He entered 160 acres of land, and after clearing it thoroughly, began a system of improvement and cultivation that does great credit to his superior judgment. he has severed several terms as justice of the peace. During the late war he served in the Confederate army, and was dismissed at Marshall, Tex., May 5, 1865, after engaging in many of the chief battle and undergoing the hardships and deprivations necessary to a soldier’s life. January 20, 1848 he married Miss Ann Goings, daughter of Drew and Elizabeth Goings, and of its union were born eleven children, nine of whom are still living: Evelyn E., Charles A., John W., Samuel J., Eugene A., H. M., Mary J., Mattie Ann and Joseph E. Seven of the family belong to the Missionary Baptist Church, of which the father is a deacon. One of the boys, J. W. is a Baptist preacher.” https://sites.rootsweb.com/~arlincol/goodspeed.html

14) 1848 July 14 – Fish fr Houston etal – Deed bk 6, p 567
… between Elias Fish and Cynthia Fish his wife of the County of Oktibbeha and State of Mississippi of the one part and Robert F Houston, Matthew C Houston and Luther J Houston of Sumpter County and State of Alabama of the other part … Elias Fish and Cynthia his wife for and in consideration of the sum of $300 dollars to them in hand paid by the said Robert F Houston, Matthew C Houston and Luther T Houston their heirs executors and administrators by these presents have granted … unto the said Robert F Houston, Matthew C Houston, Luther G Houston … tract of land … in the County of Itawamba and State of Mississippi … the NW quarter of Section 32 in TS 7 of R10E … subj to sale at Pontotoc MS containing 160 acres and 15/100ths of an acre granted to Elias Fish by the United States … 1843 … Signed: Elias Fish, Cynthia Fish. Itawamba Co, MS. https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/3:1:3Q9M-CSL5-89S2-9?i=597&cat=250498

15) 1849 Oct 22 – Elias Fish to W C Lindsey – Deed bk N. p 131. Tishomingo Co, MS.
… between Elias Fish of the County of Oktibbeha and State of MS of the first part and William Carol Lindsey of the County of Tishomingo and State of Mississippi of the second part … in consideration of the sum of $80 dollars to the said Fish … deliver unto the said William C Lindsey a certain tract of land … SE quarter of Section 24 in TS6 of R10E … containing 163 65/100 acres … Signed: Elias Fish. Tishomingo Co, MS.
https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/3:1:3Q9M-CS41-KWJV?i=73&cat=254590

16) 1840 US Census – Name: Elisha Fish
Home in 1840 (City, County, State): Itawamba, Mississippi
Free White Persons – Males – Under 5: 1
Free White Persons – Males – 10 thru 14: 1
Free White Persons – Males – 30 thru 39: 1
Free White Persons – Females – Under 5: 1
Free White Persons – Females – 20 thru 29: 1
Free White Persons – Females – 30 thru 39: 1
Persons Employed in Agriculture: 3
Free White Persons – Under 20: 3
Free White Persons – 20 thru 49: 3
Total Free White Persons: 6
Total All Persons – Free White, Free Colored, Slaves: 6
https://www.ancestry.com/sharing/29701714?h=d0c5cf

17) 1850 US Census – Name: Elias Fish
Age: 48, Birth Year: abt 1802
Birthplace: New York
Home in 1850: Goodmans, Harris, Georgia, USA
Gender: Male
Family Number: 539
Household Members:
Name Age
Elias Fish 48
Syntha Fish 44
Everard H Fish 21
A C Fish 19
Evaline Fish 14
James T Land 11
https://www.ancestry.com/sharing/29701717?h=3d303f

18) Elias Fish reportedly died in 1855 – (havent found the source yet).   Jason Fish moves to Drew County, Arkansas shortly after this.

19) 1855 Sept 5 – John E Gowens and wife Elizabeth to Barney Pearson, the State of Mississippi, Oktibbeha County. Deed of Conveyance. John E. Gowens and Elizabeth Gowens his wife for $600 paid by Barney Pearson, convey unto Barney Pearson (description of land hard to read) S 1/2 of SW 1/4 of S10, T19, Range 13. Signed: John E Gowings, Elizabeth Goens. Recorded Oct 10, 1855. Oktibbeha Co, MS.  Deed bk 11, pg 526, Oktibbeha Co, MS
https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/3:1:3Q9M-CSVB-2F7V?i=641&cat=254636

20) 1856 – Mississippi tax rolls show that William W. Goyen continues living in Oktibbeha County, Mississippi in 1856. (Image 11) https://da.mdah.ms.gov/series/osa/s1202/oktibbeha/1856-personal/detail/376352#dtop

21) 1856 Feb 9 – Stephen E Nash and wife Maria convey land to John E Goins, for $400 paid by John E. Goins … convey the South West quarter of section No 31, in Township No 20, of Range 13 in said county … Signed: S. E. Nash. Maria I Nash, wife of S E Nash, relinquished her dower on Feb 9, 1856. Proved up on Feb 11, 1856. Recorded March 22, 1856, bk 12, pg 104. Oktibbeha Co, MS
https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/3:1:3Q9M-CSVB-2ZSD?i=58&cat=254636

22) 1857 Nov 14 – Stephen E Nash and wife Maria convey land to William W. Goyen $441 paid by William W Goyen, convey the South West quarter of Section No 32 in Township No 20 of Range No 13 in Oktibbeha Co, MS … Signed: S. E. Nash. Maria I. Nash, wife of S. E. Nash, relinquished her dower on Nov 14, 1857. Proved up in court on Nov 20, 1857. Recorded Nov 20, 1857. Deed bk 11, pg 534. Oktibbeha Co, MS
https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/3:1:3Q9M-CSVB-2XBM?i=645&cat=254636

23) 1859 Sept 20: John E Goins and Elizabeth Goins his wife, and William Cross for $280 dollars paid by William H Cross, convey the Southwest quarter of Section 31 Township 20 North of Range 13 East containing 160 acres … Signed: John E Goings, Marget E Goings (her X mark) bk 14, p 53. Oktibbeha Co, MS.
https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/3:1:3Q9M-C3Q8-T97X-H?i=32&cat=254636 ,
https://www.familysearch.org/search/catalog/254636?availability=Family%20History%20Library  (Index) bk 14, p 53  (John E. Going and his wife Elizabeth are next seen in 1860 in Drew County, Arkansas in the US Census).

(SEE Oktibbeha County, MS page for Going / Goyen related transactions):  Click here:  https://goyengoinggowengoyneandgone.com/mississippi-oktibbeha-county/

(SEE Arkansas page for Going / Goyen related transactions for John E Going’s family (brother of William W. Goyen), and Jason Fish m. to Anne E. Going (sister):  https://goyengoinggowengoyneandgone.com/state-arkansas/

24) 1860-1862:  William W. Goyen is ADMIN of A S DAVIS, DECD ESTATE:    (Of note, John E Goins, Hugh Bell, and William Cross, along with the other admin named John E. Davis, are all mentioned in the following records regarding the admin of A S Davis, decd’s estate):

1860 May 7 – William W. Goins admr of estate of A D Davis (or A S Davis)- No. 314. p. 335-336
W W Goins and John E Davis administrators – 1st annual acct.
1859 disbursements noted to:
John E. Goins, Pig Cromwell, Chapman and Seely, Thomas Ward, Wm McCreight, James Ross, John M Moseley, James Gillespie, Mat Ames, S Milton, J M Rogers, Cross and Suddoth …
Signed: J E Davis, W W Goins, admrs.
SALE of A D Davis intest estate included the following purchasers: A W Miller, Squire Clark, Hugh Bell, A W Miller, P Cromwell. Signed: W W Goins.
https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/3:1:3QS7-99QX-789T?i=173&wc=M7MK-3P8%3A344538001%2C344782201&cc=2036959&cat=242852

25) 1860 US Census: Oktibbeha Co, MS
Name: John E Davis; Age: 22; Birth Year: abt 1838; Gender: Male
Birth Place: Alabama
Home in 1860: Oktibbeha , Mississippi; Post Office: Starkville
Dwelling Number: 416; Family Number: 357
Occupation: Clerking
Household Members:
Name Age
James H Vail 49
Harriet Vail 36
Henry Vail 17
Robert Vail 10
Richard Vail 5
Ella Vail 1
Collittie Tubbs 10
John E Davis 22
Peter L Critz 26
Nancy Critz 24
Charles Critz 5/12
George Grizzle 35
Sarah Grizzle 30
Luella Grizzle 11
Martha Grizzle 9
Mary Grizzle 7
Lauretta Grizzle 13
Thomas Grizzle 6
https://www.ancestry.com/sharing/29701734?h=cea4b9
Index view:
3 416 357 Vail James H 49 1811 Male Farming 400 2500 New York
4 416 357 Vail Harriet 36 1824 Female Alabama
5 416 357 Vail Henry 17 1843 Male Alabama
6 416 357 Vail Robert 10 1850 Male Mississippi
7 416 357 Vail Richard 5 1855 Male Mississippi
8 416 357 Vail Ella 1 1859 Female Mississippi
9 416 357 Tubbs Collittie 10 1850 Female Mississippi
10 416 357 Davis John E 22 1838 Male Clerking Alabama
(NOTE: lines 11-14, under John E Davis states: J E Davis, admr. Est A S Davis, decd – 15,500 pers property section. W W Going owner, J E Davis, agent. 2400 real estate section).
15 417 357 Critz Peter L 26 1834 Male Cabinet Maker 600 1500 Virginia
16 417 357 Critz Nancy 24 1836 Female Georgia
17 417 357 Critz Charles 5/12 1860 Male Mississippi
18 418 358 Grizzle George 35 1825 Male Mill Laborer Georgia
19 418 358 Grizzle Sarah 30 1830 Female Georgia
20 418 358 Grizzle Luella 11 1849 Female Mississippi Yes
21 418 358 Grizzle Martha 9 1851 Female Mississippi
22 418 358 Grizzle Mary 7 1853 Female Mississippi
23 418 358 Grizzle Lauretta 13 1847 Female Mississippi
24 418 358 Grizzle Thomas 6 1854 Male Mississippi
https://www.ancestry.com/sharing/29701734?h=cea4b9

26) 1861 May 6 – No 314 A S Davis intestate annual acct. W W Goyens and J E Davis admins of A S Davis decd, 1861 2d annual acct. pg. 529.
Disbursements (payments to the following people listed): J E Davis, R A Miller, James Williams D S Johnson, James Gillespie, W C Bishop, Calvin Bridges, Squire Clark, E M Sayle, T J Black, W L Cromwell.
Receipts (payments from the following people listed): T C McCuney (Note: maybe “McCluney”), James Williams, Mrs T Davis, G W Champion, Thomas Rice, J B Saunders, T W Strowhan, T E Davis, R P Davis, Silas Cooper, John McCarady, Hugh Bell.
Signed: W W Goyen.
“Mississippi Probate Records, 1781-1930,” images, FamilySearch https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/3:1:3QS7-99QX-7Z2Z?i=279&wc=M7MK-3P8%3A344538001%2C344782201&cc=2036959 : 21 May 2014), Oktibbeha > Final records 1857-1867 > image 242 of 415 – pg. 529; county courthouses and public libraries, Mississippi.

27) 1862 May Court – No 314, pg 684. A S Davis intestate annual acct…
Receipts noted from the following people: A W Miller, Hugh Bell, R P Davis, W H Cross.
Paid: W W Goyen admr – on voucher at 8 percent: $3690.22.
Signed: W W Goyen, admr.
“Mississippi Probate Records, 1781-1930,” images, FamilySearch (https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/3:1:3QS7-99QX-7ZCT?i=362&wc=M7MK-3P8%3A344538001%2C344782201&cc=2036959: 21 May 2014), Oktibbeha > Final records 1857-1867 > image 242 of 415; pg 684. county courthouses and public libraries, Mississippi.

CALHOUN COUNTY, MS:  

28) In 1860, the US Census, and Mississippi tax rolls both show William W. Goyen having moved his family to Calhoun County, Mississippi.

1860 US Census: Name: William Goyne
Age: 33, Birth Year: abt 1827
Gender: Male
Birth Place: South Carolina
Home in 1860: Calhoun, Mississippi
Post Office: Big Creek
Dwelling Number: 226, Family Number: 225
Occupation: Farmer
Real Estate Value: 2480, Personal Estate Value: 11286
Household Members:
Name Age
William Goyne 33
Sarah Goyne 30
Martha Goyne 6
Anna Goyne 4
John Goyne 3/12
Year: 1860; Census Place: Calhoun, Mississippi; Roll: M653_578; Page: 569; Family History Library Film: 803578
https://www.ancestry.com/sharing/29701559?h=4f9d6e

(1860 US Census – Calhoun Co, Miss – William Goyne with wife Sarah, and 3 children).

Military Service:

29) From 1861 to 1864 William W. Goyen is a soldier in the Civil War.

Civil War Service and Death of W W Goyen

34) News article about Mrs. J. Guy Jones – her grandfather Lt. W W Goyen of Jeb Forest’s cavalry killed in battle – posthumously promoted to Captain.  Two bloodstained letters taken from his body and were given with his sword, uniform equipment and saddle of his war horse and sent back to his Starkville, MS home. One letter addressed Sarah Bell Goyen – his wife, and her two little girls – Martha Elizabeth Goyen (one of his daughters) was Mrs. Jones’ mother.

(Above – Headstone of W W “Govan” – misspelling of Goyen – killed at Brice’s Crossroads June 10, 1864).

35) In the month prior to William W. Goyen’s death at Brice’s Crossroads, he wrote two letters to his family.  The letters were found on his body and sent home to his wife Sarah Martha Bell Goyen.  Transcriptions of the letters are below:

LETTERS from William W. Goyen to his daughters during Civil War (See attached – copies of originals and transcriptions) (full transcriptions below):

35a) Letter No. 1. – to his two daughters, Martha Elizabeth and Anna Mae Goyen.

May 9th, 1864 — CAMP NEAR VERONA, MISSISSIPPI.

“Dear Little Girls”

Your dear Papa has for the first time in his life seated himself for the purpose of writing you. This leaves me in good health and doing well and I hope it may find you in the same enjoyment.

Papa often thinks of his dear little girls and asks the Great God to keep them from harm, and I hope that he will do so. Be good and kind to all, but especially to each other. Love is only to be obtained by giving love in return, and this I enjoin upon you. Love each other and you will have the blessings of your good and kind parents and at the same time secure the blessings of our appreciating God.

Study your books diligently and learn to write soon.  Papa would like to have a letter written by you very much indeed, and I know if you mind Cousin Martha that you will soon be able to write yourself, but now you will have to get them or Cousin Doff to write for you as you are just beginning to learn. My Dear Little Girls you must have them write me how you are getting along at school and how fast you are learning and whether you are well satisfied at school or not, also what you are studying.

Let me know when you heard from Ma and how she and John Bell and Eugene were.

My dear Little Girls you must be good to your kind GrandPa and Ma and must not vex them and they will love you and bless you.

I saw your Aunt NANNIE PROVINE and her little boy (Joseph Fipdley Provine) and Kin a few days ago at Coles Creek. They were very well and would like to see you very much. They speak of visiting you this summer.

Love to you and your Grand Pa and Ma, also Cousin Doff; Uncle Frank and Aunt Liz and cousin Martha and others that you wish to, and remember to do good. Goodbye my dear little “Bettie” (Martha Elizabeth) and Anna Mae. Love to all there and remember to do good. This is from your dear Papa —

W. W. GOYEN. — P. E. – Write to me soon, Direct your letter to Duff’s Regiment, Verona, Mississippi.”

35b) Letter No 2:  dated June 7, 1864 – camp near New Albany:

“My Dear Wife: . — In haste I drop you a few lines. This leaves me in good health, and I hope it may find you in the same enjoyment.

We have been on the March two days to meet the enemy. They are at Ripley, and we expect to fight them today or tomorrow if they come on. I do not know how many there is. We have about 1500 in our Brigade. We have had a great deal of rain here. I found all the boys willing and in good spirits. I hope that we will come out all right.

Tell Billy to push ahead. I will write again as soon as we get through the scrap that we are in.

Write to me – Direct it to OXFORD, Duff’s Regiment, Company “K”.  Kiss the children for me.

God Bless all of you.  — W. W. GOYEN–“

(Copies of the letters are lower down on this page).

36) The 1870 US Census shows that Sarah Goyen, widow of William W. Goyen, has moved with her children back to Oktibbeha County, Mississippi back into her childhood home with her mother Martha Bell, and brother John T Bell.  Her father Hugh Bell had died in September 1864.   Also living on the property were a Henry Johnston and James Abercrombie.

1870 US Census – Name – Martha Bell
Age in 1870 – 78, Birth Year 1792
Birthplace South Carolina
Dwelling Number 286
Home in 1870 Police Beat 2, Oktibbeha, Mississippi
Race White, Gender Female
Real Estate Value 1000
Name – John T Bell
Age in 1870 – 40, Birth Year 1830
Birthplace South Carolina
Dwelling Number 286
Home in 1870 Police Beat 2, Oktibbeha, Mississippi
Race White, Gender Male
Occupation Farmer
Cannot Read Y, Cannot Write Y
Male Citizen Over 21 Y
Personal Estate Value 2000
Real Estate Value 4800
Name: Sarah Goyens
Age in 1870: – 38, Birth Year: abt 1832
Birthplace: South Carolina
Dwelling Number: 286
Home in 1870: Police Beat 2, Oktibbeha, Mississippi
Race: White, Gender: Female
Occupation: Keeping House
Real Estate Value: 1000
Inferred Children:
Lizzie Goyens
Anne Goyens
John Goyens
William Goyens
Household Members:
Name Age
Sarah Goyens 38
Linnie Goyens 15
Anne Goyens 14
John Goyens 10
William Goyens 8
Name – Henry Johnston
Age in 1870 – 37, Birth Year 1833
Birthplace Alabama
Dwelling Number 286
Home in 1870 Police Beat 2, Oktibbeha, Mississippi
Race White, Gender Male
Occupation Farmer
Male Citizen Over 21 Y
Personal Estate Value 500
Name – James Abercrombie
Age in 1870 – 40, Birth Year 1830
Birthplace South Carolina
Dwelling Number 286
Home in 1870 Police Beat 2, Oktibbeha, Mississippi
Race White, Gender Male
Occupation Farmer
Male Citizen Over 21 Y
Personal Estate Value 1000
https://www.ancestry.com/sharing/29701591?h=abefac ;
https://www.ancestry.com/sharing/29701591?h=abefac

In 1880 the US Census shows Sarah Goins living in Calhoun County, Mississippi with her children Anna, John B., and Willie. Her oldest daughter Martha Goyen has married Samuel Franklin Tipton and they are living in Oktibbeha Co, MS at this time.

Nancy C Goyen Provine is living next door to Sarah Goins (Sarah Bell Goyen – the widow of Nancy Provine’s brother). The Provine family is in Dwelling Number 257, the Goins (Goyen) family is in Dwelling Number 258, directly next to eachother. William W. Goyen, brother of Nancy Goyen Provine, had died in the Civil War.

1880 United States Federal Census
Name: [Nancy C. Provine]
Age: 40, Birth Date: Abt 1840
Birthplace: Mississippi
Home in 1880: Calhoun, Mississippi, USA
Dwelling Number: 257
Race: White, Gender: Female
Relation to Head of House: Wife
Marital Status: Married
Spouse’s Name: Robert Provine
Father’s Birthplace: South Carolina
Mother’s Birthplace: South Carolina
Occupation: Keeping House
Household Members Age Relationship
Robert Provine 40 Self (Head) – Farmer and Merchant
Nancy C. Provine 40 Wife – Keeping House
Joseph F. Provine 19 Son – Clerk in dry goods store
John Provine 14 Son – going to school
Robert F. Provine 12 Son – going to school
Charles C. Provine 11 Son – going to school
George H. Provine 9 Son
James N. Provine 7 Son
Edgar B. Provine 5 Son
Oscar Provine 4 Son
Lizzie M. Provine 1 Daughter
Year: 1880; Census Place: Calhoun, Mississippi; Roll: 642; Page: 616A; Enumeration District: 016
https://www.ancestry.com/sharing/29701860?h=2b8c73

1880 United States Federal Census
Name: [Sarah Goins]
Age: 50, Birth Date: Abt 1830
Birthplace: South Carolina
Home in 1880: Calhoun, Mississippi, USA
Dwelling Number: 258
Race: White, Gender: Female
Relation to Head of House: Self (Head)
Marital Status: Widowed
Father’s Birthplace: South Carolina
Mother’s Birthplace: South Carolina
Occupation: Farming & Keeping House
Household Members Age Relationship
Sarah Goins 50 Self (Head) – Keeping House & Farming
Anna Goins 20 Daughter – Assisting in Keeping House
John B. Goins 19 Son – Working on farm
Willie Goins 17 Son – Working on farm
Year: 1880; Census Place: Calhoun, Mississippi; Roll: 642; Page: 616A; Enumeration District: 016
https://www.ancestry.com/sharing/29701620?h=d1a7ff

1894 Jan 9 – Confederate Pension Application of Sarah M Goyen:  G, No.2 – Sarah M. Goyen, Coles Creek Post Office, Calhoun County.
Warrant No. 984 for the sum of $20.75.
Signed: Sarah M. Goyen
Wits: W B Barnes, G B Jones. Jan, 9, 1894.
Call Number: Series 1201
Description: Sarah M. Goyen
Date: 1894-01-09
County: Calhoun County
State: Mississippi
Filename: MISS0066D_Confederate-Pension-applications-Gosa-Grammer-1900-1932_00112.tif
https://da.mdah.ms.gov/series/osa/s1201/gosa-grammer/detail/425056#dtop
https://da.mdah.ms.gov/series/osa/s1201/gosa-grammer/detail/425060#dtop

In the 1900 US Census we find William W. Goyen’s sister, T. E. Goyen (Theodocia Elvira Goyen) who married Thomas Aven in 1875. Thomas Aven died in 1881. In 1900 the US Census shows her living with her sister Nancy Goyen Provine in the Provine household in Calhoun County, MS.  Elvira Goyen Aven is listed as R N Provine’s “Sister in Law”.

1900 United States Federal Census
Name: Elvira Aven
Age: 69, Birth Date: Apr 1831
Birthplace: Alabama, USA
Home in 1900: Beat 4, Calhoun, Mississippi
Sheet Number: 11
Institution: 5658
Number of Dwelling in Order of Visitation: 182
Family Number: 180
Race: White, Gender: Female
Relation to Head of House: Sister in Law (Sister-in-law)
Marital Status: Widowed
Father’s Birthplace: South Carolina, USA
Mother’s Birthplace: South Carolina, USA
Can Read: Yes, Can Write: Yes, Can Speak English: Yes
Household Members Age Relationship
R N Provine 60 Head
Nannie Provine 60 Wife
Oscar Provine 23 Son
May Provine 21 Daughter
Elvira Aven 69 Sister in Law (Sister-in-law)
Ben Mccluscy 30 Hireling (Hired)
Frieda Romer 32 Hireling (Hired)
George Doler 20 Hireling (Hired)
Corse Green 12 Hireling (Hired)
R L Schultz 32 Hireling (Hired)
Leonora Schultz 11 Boarder
Year: 1900; Census Place: Beat 4, Calhoun, Mississippi; Roll: 802; Page: 11; Enumeration District: 0016; FHL microfilm: 1240802
https://www.ancestry.com/sharing/29728058?h=5d7a01 (pg 1)
https://www.ancestry.com/sharing/29701642?h=99418c (pg 2)

1910 United States Federal Census
Name: Elvira T Aven
Age in 1910: 79, Birth Date: 1831
Birthplace: South Carolina
Home in 1910: Beat 4, Calhoun, Mississippi, USA
Race: White, Gender: Female
Relation to Head of House: Sister-in-law
Marital Status: Widowed
Father’s Birthplace: South Carolina
Mother’s Birthplace: South Carolina
Native Tongue: English, Able to read: Yes, Able to Write: Yes
Number of Children Born: 0
Number of Children Living: 0
Household Members Age Relationship
Robert N Provine 70 Head
Nancy C Provine 70 Wife
Lizzie M Provine 30 Daughter
Elvira T Avan 79 Sister-in-law
Year: 1910; Census Place: Beat 4, Calhoun, Mississippi; Roll: T624_734; Page: 20B; Enumeration District: 0024; FHL microfilm: 1374747
https://www.ancestry.com/sharing/29729587?h=aa741b

By 1900 widow Sarah Bell Goyen has moved in with her son John Bell Goyen in Gilmer, Upshur County, Texas. She reports they had 6 children, and that 3 are still living. We know of 4 children that made it to adulthood – Martha Elizabeth Goyen (named after her mom and paternal grandmother), Annah May Goyen (who died in 1895), John Bell Goyen (middle name is mother’s maiden name), and William Smith Goyen (middle name is paternal grandmother’s maiden name).

1900 United States Federal Census
Name: Sarah Goyen
Age: 70, Birth Date: Aug 1829
Birthplace: South Carolina, USA
Home in 1900: Justice Precinct 1, Upshur, Texas
Sheet Number: 13, Number of Dwelling in Order of Visitation: 249, Family Number: 244
Race: White, Gender: Female
Relation to Head of House: Mother
Marital Status: Widowed
Father’s Birthplace: North Carolina, USA
Mother’s Birthplace: North Carolina, USA
Mother: number of living children: 3
Mother: How many children: 6
Can Read: Yes, Can Write: Yes, Can Speak English: Yes
Household Members Age Relationship
John B Goyen 43 Head
Ella Goyen 36 Wife
Lester Goyen 16 Son
Carrie Goyen 13 Daughter
Frank Goyen 10 Son
John Goyen 6 Son
Annie Goyen 3 Daughter
Sarah Goyen 70 Mother
Craig Parker 40 Boarder
Roy Tipton 20 Boarder (this is Martha Elizabeth Goyen Tipton’s son – nephew of Sarah Bell Goyen, cousin of John Bell Goyen)
Year: 1900; Census Place: Justice Precinct 1, Upshur, Texas; Roll: 1674; Page: 13; Enumeration District: 0115; FHL microfilm: 1241674
https://www.ancestry.com/sharing/29732006?h=3cd5be

Sarah Bell Goyen’s other son, William Smith Goyen, is also in Gilmer, Upshur County, Texas shown in the 1900 US Census.

1900 United States Federal Census
Name: William Goyen
Age: 37, Birth Date: Jul 1862
Birthplace: Mississippi, USA
Home in 1900: Justice Precinct 8, Upshur, Texas
Sheet Number: 8, Number of Dwelling in Order of Visitation: 140, Family Number: 152
Race: White, Gender: Male
Relation to Head of House: Head
Marital Status: Married
Spouse’s Name: Kate N Gayen
Marriage Year: 1889, Years Married: 11
Father’s Birthplace: South Carolina, USA
Mother’s Birthplace: South Carolina, USA
Occupation: Day Laborer, Months Not Employed: 0
Can Read: Yes, Can Write: Yes, Can Speak English: Yes
House Owned or Rented: Rent, Farm or House: H
Household Members Age Relationship
William Goyen 37 Head
Kate N Goyen 32 Wife
W Eugene Goyen 10 Son
John W Goyen 8 Son 
Charlie P Goyen 6 Son
Hazel L Goyen 4 Daughter
Bissie A Goyen 2 Daughter
Goyen 3/12 Son
Year: 1900; Census Place: Justice Precinct 8, Upshur, Texas; Roll: 1675; Page: 8; Enumeration District: 0123; FHL microfilm: 1241675
https://www.ancestry.com/sharing/29732056?h=c85846

Sarah Bell Goyen’s 3rd living child in 1900, Martha Elizabeth Goyen had married first Samuel Franklin Tipton in 1871, he died in 1889. They had 2 boys and 3 girls together:

• Clarence Leroy (Roy) Tipton 1879-1969, born in Starkville, Miss
• Sallie Bell Tipton 1881–1902, born in Starkville, Miss.
• John William Tipton 1884–1890, born in Starkville.  Died in home of his grandfather Shadrach S. Tipton at West Point, Miss.
• Nancy Elizabeth Tipton 1887–1961, born in Coles Creek, Miss.
• Sammie Katherine Tipton 1889–1985, born outside Saboula, Miss.

In 1899 widow Martha Elizabeth Goyen remarries to David F Thomson. She is named “Lizzie Thomson” in the following return:

1900 United States Federal Census
Name: Lizzie Thomson
Age: 45, Birth Date: Sep 1854
Birthplace: Mississippi, USA
Home in 1900: Justice Precinct 1, Upshur, Texas
Sheet Number: 10, Number of Dwelling in Order of Visitation: 197, Family Number: 197
Race: White, Gender: Female
Relation to Head of House: Wife
Marital Status: Married
Spouse’s Name: David Thomson
Marriage Year: 1899
Years Married: 1
Father’s Birthplace: Alabama, USA
Mother’s Birthplace: Alabama, USA
Mother: number of living children: 4
Mother: How many children: 4
Can Read: Yes, Can Write: Yes, Can Speak English: Yes
Household Members Age Relationship
David Thomson 46 Head
Lizzie Thomson 45 Wife
LeRoy Tipton 20 Step Son (census only names him “Tipton boy” – he is actually living with John Bell Goyen – see his census return above).
Nannie Tipton 13 daughter (census has them misnamed as Thomson, this is Martha’s daughter)
Sammie Tipton 10 daughter (census has them misnamed as Thomson, this is Martha’s daughter)
Clide Stevens 22 Boarder
Will Piles 22 Boarder
John Kelly 21 Boarder
Year: 1900; Census Place: Justice Precinct 1, Upshur, Texas; Roll: 1674; Page: 10; Enumeration District: 0116; FHL microfilm: 1241674
https://www.ancestry.com/sharing/29732086?h=fc0787

The following photo was taken in 1898 in Gilmer, Upshur County, Texas at the home of John Bell Goyen – son of William W. Goyen and Sarah Martha Bell Goyen. Sarah Martha Bell Goyen is on the far left, next to her from left to right is her grandson William Leslie Goyen (eldest child of John Bell Goyen), daughter Martha Elizabeth Goyen Tipton, granddaughters Nancy Tipton and Sammie Tipton, Ella Green Parker Goyen (wife of John Bell Goyen), and then Anna Vernice Goyen, Carrie Mae Goyen, Frank Bell Goyen, John Parker Goyen (children of John Bell Goyen).

(William Goyen’s wife, and family in Glimer, Texas – Click to enlarge)  (1898 Family photo in Gilmer, Upshur County, Texas at the home of John Bell Goyen (son of William W. Goyen and Sarah Martha Bell) – Left to Right – Sarah Martha Bell far left (William W. Goyen’s widow), William Leslie Goyen, Martha Elizabeth Goyen Tipton (daughter of William W. Goyen and Sarah Martha Bell), Nancy Tipton, Sammie Tipton, Ella Green Parker Goyen (wife of John Bell Goyen), Anna Vernice Goyen, Carrie Mae Goyen, Frank Bell Goyen, John Parker Goyen ).

1935 Dec 19 – Margaret Elizabeth Goyen Tipton Thomson’s death certificate
Name: Mrs Margaret Elizabeth Thomson
[Mrs Margaret Elizabeth Goyen]
Gender: Female
Race: White
Age: 81
Birth Date: 25 Sep 1854
Birth Place: Starkville, Mississippi
Residence: Dallas, Texas, USA
Death Date: 19 Dec 1935
Death Place: Dallas, Dallas, Texas, USA
Father: W W Goyen
Mother: Sarah Bell
Spouse: David F Thomson
Texas Department of State Health Services; Austin Texas, USA
https://www.ancestry.com/sharing/29912565?h=ff3458

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

How we know Drury B. Goyen is father of William W. Goyen: 

See the letter dated July 31, 1851. William W. Goyen is writing to his cousin Adeline McCluney and sister Elvira Going at Thompson McCluney’s home in Oakland, Mississippi. (Yalobusha County). In his letter he tells the recipients to “Give my best to all, and more especially to Granma tell her I want to see her very much”.

Looking at the 1850 Yalobusha US Census, the only woman in Thompson McCluney’s household old enough to be William W. Goyen’s “Granma” is Docia Plaxco – age 80. (see Census below).

Docia Plaxco’s maiden name was Docia Bland – she was married to Elijah Going in Chester Co, SC until he died. She had two children by him prior to his death – Drury B. Goyen, and Sarah Goen (Goyen).

After Elijah Going’s death, Docia Bland remarried to John Plaxco. John Plaxco and Docia had one child, Elvira Plaxco, who married Thompson McCluney. Elvira died some time in the 1830s. Her mother (and Drury B. Goyen’s mother) Docia Plaxco, was living at Thompson McCluney’s household with her son-in-law and grandchildren (Thompson McCluney’s kids, and Drury B. Goyen’s children as well were her grandchildren – Drury B Goyen died some time in 1847-48).

William W. Goyen’s cousins, sisters, uncle Thompson McCluney, and grandmother Docia Plaxco were all in that home. (See below – click to enlarge):

(Letter and original envelope – from William W. Goyen dated July 31, 1851 addressed to cousin A. E. McCluney (Adeline), and sister E. D. Going (Elvira).  Both living at Thompson McCluney’s household in Oakland, Yalobusha County, Mississippi).  (Originals are in Events below).

(1850 US Census – Yalobusha County, Mississippi – showing Docia Plaxco age 80 living at Thompson McCluney’s home).

William W. Goyen’s letter dated September 4-9, 1851 addressed again to Adeline McCluney, and to his sister E. T. Going in Oakland, Yalobusha Co, Miss. is below.  The letter includes the fact that William W. Goyen has married Sarah Bell some time between the time this letter was written, and the last letter on July 31, 1851.   The letter additionally mention cousins John McCluney and Samuel McCluney – also on US Census report above – further confirming these letters are addressed to Thompson McCluney’s household (where grandmother Docia Plaxco / Goyen / Bland was living).

(Transcriptions of William W. Goyen’s letters dated September 4-9, 1851 addressed to his sister and cousin at Thompson McCluney household.  Originals are below under “Events”).

William W. Goyen’s children and spouse:

William W. Goyen’s children and spouse are listed in his letters and in US Census reports.

First are his letters (see above) written in July and September 1851 where he describes courting Sarah Bell and then his marriage to Sarah Martha Bell.

Next is the 1860 US Census report in Calhoun Co, Miss, showing William Goyne age 33, with wife Sarah 30 yrs, daughter Martha 6 years, Anna 4 years, and John 3 months:

(1860 US Census – Calhoun Co, Miss – William Goyne wth wife Sarah, and 3 children).

By 1870, William W. Goyen had died in the Civil War.  His wife, Sarah Martha Bell Goyen, age 38, can be found at her mother’s home (Martha Bell age 78) in Starkville, Oktibbeha Co, Miss.    With her are her daughter Lizzie (Martha Elizabeth Goyen) age 15, Anne age 14, John (John Bell Goyen) age 10, and Willliam age 8 (William S. Goyen).

(1870 US Census – Oktibbeha County, Mississippi)

William W. Goyen’s siblings

I.  Number of Siblings:

We are able to account for 6 of the 8 or 9 children that Drury B. Goyen had.  Documentation of William W. Goyen’s known siblings is pieced together below.

First is the 1845 Mississippi State Census report – showing Drury B. Goyen with a household of 6 females and 5 males.  This indicates there were likely 4-5 female children (maybe 4, it is possible that Docia Plaxco was living with Drury B. Goyen at this time), and 4 male children.   Also on page is what appears to be his uncle, Thomas Baxter Going with just himself – 1 male.

(1845 Lowndes County, Miss state census report with Drury Going with 5 males and 6 females, and Thos Going with 1 male:  https://da.mdah.ms.gov/series/osa/s1202/lowndes/1845-personal/detail/329815 ).

(1845 Lowndes Co, Miss tax rept has Drury B. Goyne and Thos B. Goyne: https://da.mdah.ms.gov/series/osa/s1202/lowndes/1845-personal/detail/329678).

a.  sibling 1, Elvira Docea Going, and 

b.  sibling 2, T. Elizabeth Going:

We know from William W. Goyen’s letters he wrote in 1851 the names of two of his sisters, E. D. Going (Elvira), and T. E. Going (T. Elizabeth). (See letters above)

c.  sibling 3, Nancy Chisholm Goyen: 

(Photos of Nancy Goyen and husband Robert N. Provine).

(Robert Neely Provine with wife Nancy Goyen Provine, and all their children – far left is Joseph Finley Provine, next to him is John William Provine).

We know from William W. Goyen’s letters that were written in the Civil War (found on his body and delivered to his wife after his death) that his sister was Nancy Goyen who married into the Provine family.  (In letter named “Nannie Provine” with her son “Joseph Findley Provine”).

(Transcription of W W Goyen letters dated May 9, 1864 and June 7, 1864.  They were found on his body after killed at Battle of Brice’s Crossroads on June 10, 1864 – Letters were taken from his pocket and delivered to his wife Sarah Bell Goyen – Originals are listed below under “Events” – difficult to read).

Nancy Goyen is mentioned in “Biographical and Historical Memoirs of Mississippi: Embracing an Authentic and Comprehensive Account of the Chief Events in the History of the State and a Record of the Lives of Many of the Most Worthy and Illustrious Families and Individuals”.   Information from the article shows she was born in 1840 a native of Pickens, Alabama.  She was an orphan at an early age and raised by her brothers and sisters, and married Robert Neely Provine at age 20.   Nancy Goyen and Robert N. Provine had 9 children, 8 sons and 1 daughter. 

https://books.google.com/books?id=i-REAQAAMAAJ&pg=PA626&lpg=PA626&dq=R+N+Provine+and+Nancy+Goyen,+mississippi+memoirs&source=bl&ots=80eGygIx5F&sig=3eIMPhNWZHpuqXs3vC2HetQtxyc&hl=en&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwj1q5v0tbHJAhXLJiYKHX7KCMEQ6AEIHjAA#v=onepage&q=R%20N%20Provine%20and%20Nancy%20Goyen%2C%20mississippi%20memoirs&f=false

d.  sibling 4, Ann Eliza Going, and

e.  sibling 5, John E. Going:

Ann Eliza Going married Jason Fish, and lived in Oktibbeha Co, Miss at the same time as William W. Goyen.  The 1850 US Census has her living with her husband Jason Fish in Mississippi, and their baby.  Also living with her is John E. Going – who appears to be her brother – which makes him William W. Goyen’s brother as well.

(1850 US Census in Oktibbeha Co, Miss, with Jason S. Fish age 22, Ann Fish (Ann Eliza Going) age 21, Robert Fish age 1, and John Gowins age 22).

We also know from “Goodspeed History of Lincoln Co, Arkansas”  the following:  “Janson S. Fish is one of lincoln County’s leading citizens, and was born in Fairfield District, S. C., on august 23, 1826, being the son of Elias and Cynthia (McKance) Fish, native of New York and South Carolina, respectively. The father came from South Carolina, and after his marriage moved first to Georgia, and later to Alabama, then to Mississippi, back to Georgia, and finally to Texas about 1855, where he died. Janson spent his school days in Georgia, Alabama and Mississippi, and when twenty-one years old commenced farming for himself. he located in Arkansas in 1856, on the farm where he now resides. He entered 160 acres of land, and after clearing it thoroughly, began a system of improvement and cultivation that does great credit to his superior judgment. he has severed several terms as justice of the peace. During the late war he served in the Confederate army, and was dismissed at Marshall, Tex., May 5, 1865, after engaging in many of the chief battle and undergoing the hardships and deprivations necessary to a soldier’s life. January 20, 1848 he married Miss Ann Goings, daughter of Drew and Elizabeth Goings, and of its union were born eleven children, nine of whom are still living: Evelyn E., Charles A., John W., Samuel J., Eugene A., H. M., Mary J., Mattie Ann and Joseph E. Seven of the family belong to the Missionary Baptist Church, of which the father is a deacon. One of the boys, J. W. is a Baptist preacher.” https://sites.rootsweb.com/~arlincol/goodspeed.html

Additional information is found on Don McKinney’s website.   Don shared the following photos of Ann Going and Jason Fish

http://don.mckinney.tripod.com/jasonfish.html

John E. Going (John E. Goen) is listed on the 1856 Oktibbeha County, Mississippi State Census report side by side, on same page with William W. Goyen  (W. W. Goen).

(1856 Oktibbeha County, Miss tax report with W. W. Goen adjacent to John E. Goen: https://da.mdah.ms.gov/series/osa/s1202/oktibbeha/1856-personal/detail/376352).

By 1860, Ann Eliza Going Fish moves to Arkansas with her family, and so does John E. Going.

(1860 US Census – Drew Co, Ark – J S Fish and wife E A Fish)

John E. Going had also moved to Drew County, Arkansas by 1860 – along with sister Ann Eliza Going and her husband Jason S. Fish and their family.

(1860 US Census – Drew County, Arkansas – J. E. Goings with spouse Elizabeth Goings and their 5 children)

Finally, the following Genealogy of the Goyen family was done in 1958 by Mrs. Elmer Mathie Adams.  It traces the siblings of William W. Goyen that she knew about and their descendants. It also traces the all the children of William W. Goyen, and their descendants.  It has been helpful in piecing together family members who may still be alive.  I have redacted birth date information of those who may possibly still be living to protect privacy:

Civil War Service and Death of W W Goyen

William W. Goyen in uniform

EVENTS IN William W. Goyen’s life:

1847 – Oktibbeha County, Mississippi – county tax rolls – pg 11 lists:

William W. Going, and Drury B. Going on the tax rolls. (see weblink):

https://da.mdah.ms.gov/series/osa/s1202/oktibbeha/1847-personal/detail/329803

10)  1847 – Oktibbeha County, Mississippi – county tax rolls – pg 43 lists:

Wm. W. Going, and Drury B. Going on tax rolls. (see weblink):

https://da.mdah.ms.gov/series/osa/s1202/oktibbeha/1847-personal/detail/330141

11)  1850 – Lowndes County, Mississippi – US Census – showing William Goen, 21 years old, living with Dailey family as a student – there are 4 students ages 17, 18, 19, 21 living with the Daileys at that time. Only one of those students with last name of Dailey.

(see attached 1850 Census).

12)  1850 – Yalobusha, Mississippi – US Census – pages 406 – family 424:

– Thompson McCluney – age 46 – Male – head of household – Planter – born in SC
– A. McCluney – age 21 – Female – born in SC
– John McCluney – age 20 – Male – born in SC
– Samuel McCluney – age 18 – Male – born in SC
– Thadeus McCluney – age 12 – Male – born in Ala.
– Docia Plaxco – age 80 – Female – born in SC
– Hugh Forbes – age 24 – Male – Laborer – born in SC
– Jas Stephens – age 19 – Male – Laborer – born in Miss

– In William W. Going’s letter dated

13)  1851 – Oktibbeha County, Mississippi – county tax rolls – pg 12 lists:

Wm. W. Goings on tax rolls (Drury B. Going no longer on tax rolls – may have passed away).  (see weblink):  https://da.mdah.ms.gov/series/osa/s1202/oktibbeha/1851-personal/detail/330077

14)  1853 – Oktibbeha County, Mississippi – county tax rolls – pg 9 lists:

1. W. W. Goens on tax rolls. (see weblink):

https://da.mdah.ms.gov/series/osa/s1202/oktibbeha/1853-personal/detail/375459

15)  1853 – Yalobusha County, Mississippi – county tax rolls – pg 28 lists: https://da.mdah.ms.gov/series/s1202/osa/yalobusha/1853-personal/detail/370073

1. a) John T. McLuny
2. b) Thompson McLuny

16)  1857 – Yalobusha County, Mississippi – county tax rolls – (image 28):  https://da.mdah.ms.gov/series/s1202/osa/yalobusha/1857-personal/detail/370074#dtop

1. a) Thompson McLuney

17)  1856 – Oktibbeha County, Mississippi – county tax rolls – pg 11 lists:

1. W. Goens and John E. Goens on tax rolls. (see weblink below):

https://da.mdah.ms.gov/series/osa/s1202/oktibbeha/1856-personal/detail/376352#dtop

1. LETTERS written by William Walter Going (Goyen):  (underlined and bolded names of interest below): 

1. FIRST LETTER: July 29, 1851 – (summary):  Addressed to “Miss” in Oktibbeha County (Envelope is addressed to E D Going – in Oakland, Miss – Aug 4 date stamped from “Starkville”.  (See attached – copy of original and transcription).

– It starts “Dear sister”
– answering her letter from “June 10th”
– his first session closed the 18 inst
– had examination and excellent dinner given by patrons and friends of his school.
– Rev. Mr. Presley delivered an address
– next session he should have several new scholars.
– Great facility
– Has become acquainted with several young ladies
– met Miss Burts and Miss Rife – They are not married, and “I suppose there is no probability of it soon.”
– William Walter Going is now boarding at the house of Mr. Bell – the father of the “beautiful     Miss Bell I alluded to some time since.”

– If you or “cousin A” are going to get married soon, let me know and I will come
– Give my best to all, and “more especially to Granma tell her I want to see her very much”

1. SECOND LETTER: (summary): (not dated – separate from above letter – but seems like sent at same time due to details) – envelope addressed to Miss A. E. McCluney (See attached – copies of original hand-written letters and transcriptions)

– starts Dear cousin

– heard of her illness, and that she was “getting better when sister wrote”.
– due to “delicacy of my health I will have to defer paying you a visit until fall.”
– “At this time I have vacation”
– “I have enjoyed myself finely this last week” “and am getting along finely both in school and out of school”

– spends most of his time with “a very amiable and intelligent young lady who shares the greater part of my affections”

–  . . . “hope my love is reciprocated by her”

– “I have pledged myself not to give my hand in matrimony until I see Miss P of whom you spoke of”

III.  THIRD/Fourth Combined LETTER(s):  (See attached – copies of original hand-written letters and transcriptions)(Summary below):

(both below are part of same letter – one part addressed to his sister, the other to his cousin).  (Envelope for this letter is dated Sept 11 – stamped Starkville – addressed to Miss T. E. Going in Oakland, Miss

1)  Sept 4, 1851 – to Miss T. E. Goings, – addressed to “sister”

– Answering your “joint letter”
– Just received it in “today’s mail”.
– “I am yet teaching and anticipate teaching the ensuing year if I can get 600 dollars for my services, if not I presume that I shall settle on a farm somewhere West.
– Describes a student of his “Fletcher Beard” who had some misdeed at his school.  Chased him out of school it appears – and he does “not regret” it.  Says “My present patrons express their regret at not being able to procure my service for the rival year.”  (wish he had chased Fletcher out the year before – in other words).
– “I am boarding at Mr. Bell’s and have been since married.”
– Gives a description of his wife ” medium build, dark hair, black eyes, and moderately                                   handsome.  She has a sweet, mild, and amiable disposition”
– “We anticipate paying you a visit as soon as school is out”.
– “Sarah sends her love and respect to you.”

– Signed “W W and S M Going to Miss T E Going”

2)  Sept 9, 1851 – to T. E. A. McCluney – (Summary below):

It  starts “dear cousin” (Note:  I believe this is a combination of T E Going, and A McCluney as part of the letter was for his sister, and another part of the letter was for his cousin).

-William W. is responding to the cousin’s letters
– Asks cousin to reference to his “sister’s” letter he wrote as part of same letter – written a few                days before – but he has been sick so reason for delay.
– his “sweet and darling wife” is nursing him
– “Sarah is well except a bad cold”
– He will resume school Monday if he doesn’t relapse
– “Tell uncle if he can find a good piece of land” for William W. – “perhaps he will move there”.
– “Received a letter from cousin John a few days ago.” ” . . . enjoying himself finely with the young ladies.”
– “You and sister and cousin Samuel must not get married before I can come out”

1. TRANSCRIBED LETTERS from Wiseman, Bell and Ware families – a couple deal with William W Goyen (Going) (See attached – transcribed copies only)(Summaries below):

1)  I G Bell letter to William R. Wiseman  – dated March 18, 1854 from Starkville, Mississippi

– says “Goings has bought Joe Valentine’s place.  He gave 600 dollars and Joe bought Dr. Watt’s place.  He gave a thousand dollars for it.”

2)  H B Ware (Hugh Bell Ware) to his aunt I E Wiseman,  – dated October 1864 from Starkville, Mississippi

– says “Mr Goings was killed on the 10th of June in an engagement in the northern part of the state.  Aunt Sallie has 4 children the youngest nearly 3 years old.  She is keeping house and getting on finely.

1. LETTERS from William W. Goyen to his daughters during Civil War (See attached – copies of originals and transcriptions) (full transcriptions below):

Letter No. 1. – to his two daughters, Martha Elizabeth and Anna Mae Goyen.

May 9th, 1864 — CAMP NEAR VERONA, MISSISSIPPI.

“”Dear Little Girls” — Your dear Papa has for the first time in his life seated himself for the purpose of writing you. This leaves me in good health and doing well and I hope it may find you in the same enjoyment.

Papa often thinks of his dear little girls and asks the Great God to keep them from harm, and I hope that he will do so. Be good and kind to all, but especially to each other. Love is only to be obtained by giving love in return, and this I enjoin upon you. Love each other and you will have the blessings of your good and kind parents and at the same time secure the blessings of our appreciating God.

Study your books diligently and learn to write soon.  Papa would like to have a letter written by you very much indeed, and I know if you mind Cousin Martha that you will soon be able to write yourself, but now you will have to get them or Cousin Doff to write for you as you are just beginning to learn. My Dear Little Girls you must have them write me how you are getting along at school and how fast you are learning and whether you are well satisfied at school or not, also what you are studying.

Let me know when you heard from Ma and how she and John Bell and Eugene were.

My dear Little Girls you must be good to your kind GrandPa and Ma and must not vex them and they will love you and bless you.

I saw your Aunt NANNIE PROVINE and her little boy (Joseph Fipdley Provine) and Kin a few days ago at Coles Creek. They were very well and would like to see you very much. They speak of visiting you this summer.

Love to you and your Grand Pa and Ma, also Cousin Doff; Uncle Frank and Aunt Liz and cousin Martha and others that you wish to, and remember to do good. Goodbye my dear little “Bettie” (Martha Elizabeth) and Anna Mae. Love to all there and remember to do good. This is from your dear Papa — W. W. GOYEN. — P. E. – Write to me soon, Direct your letter to Duff’s Regiment, Verona, Mississippi.”

Letter No 2:  dated June 7, 1864 – camp near New Albany:

“My Dear Wife: . — In haste I drop you a few lines. This leaves me in good health, and I hope it may find you in the same enjoyment.

We have been on the March two days to meet the enemy. They are at Ripley, and we expect to fight them today or tomorrow if they come on. I do not know how many there is. We have about 1500 in our Brigade. We have had a great deal of rain here. I found all the boys willing and in good spirits. I hope that we will come out all right.

Tell Billy to push ahead. I will write again as soon as we get through the scrap that we are in.

Write to me – Direct it to OXFORD, Duff’s Regiment, Company “K”.  Kiss the children for me.

God Bless all of you.  — W. W. GOYEN–“