The Papers of Jefferson Davis
October 24, 1864
From: Benjamin Wilkes (DNA, M-437, R-145, F-81-23)
“A humble plantation man” from Bedford County, Virginia believes there are too many professional men in the quartermasters and commissary departments who had no experience with farming before the war; tax in kind should be one-third of what is produced, leaving producers to do what they think best with the balance; if government needs more, should pay market prices; with farmers in the service and refugee blacks unemployed, “starvation will be the result…I think if better cannot be done the govermnt. Had best buy the negers at gold valuation, “about $100 each; “ it mite be best to set them all free—it would be better for us to do so than to have it done for us”; Impressment produces much dissatisfaction; currency reform needed; says he wrote early in the war {not found} “on the wheat that would keep longest…I thought then and think now gratest trouble a head is supplies for I could not then nor can I now see any prospect of the end of this warr”.
Taken From the Papers of Jefferson Davis Volume II
By Jefferson Davis, Haskle M. Monroe, James McIntosh
Published by LSU Press, 1971
ISBN 0807129097, 9780807 129098
Monday, October 13, 2008
Sunday, October 12, 2008
1852 Letter to Leyburn Wilkes from Nicholas Horsley
Sacramento City, May 6th, 1852
Dear Leyburn,
So remiss are my correspondents that occasionally I half resolve to write no more, but upon more mature reflection fear that I should be the only loser in acting upon such a resolve. You I cannot regard as a correspondent for though I have several times written to you, I have never been honored with so much as a line in reply. My distaste to writing has very much increased since I have been in the country, nevertheless so great is my anxiety to be particularly acquainted of what my old friends are doing that I would notwithstanding this feeling write often, if I had any encouragement whatever, if I receive no reply this shall be my last endeavor to wring a line from your honor. Everything has very much altered since I was here a year ago, the houses are larger, the inhabitants have become less transient and many have brought their families here, so that you may occasionally see a young lady on the street, indeed I saw some very fair specimens of beauty at the theater last night. In the cities and vallies(sic) you can now find all the comforts and luxuries common to the older state. In elegance of dress the ladies here far surpass those of the Atlantic states. I have made no acquaintances among them nor shall I seek to do so, but shall devote all my energies in the attainment of the object for which I come. My brother and myself are packing some forty mules that as we come to Sacramento, buy an assortment of goods which we ship to Colusa a town on the Sacramento, from that place we lash the freight about two hundred and fifty lbs. to a mule on the backs of the animals, and take it to Weaver and Trinity about two hundred miles distant from Colusa. . The Indians in the vicinity of Trinity are becoming more and more daring in their attacks upon persons and property, it is dangerous for small parties to cross the mountains; many persons have been killed and hundreds of mules and cattle stolen within the last few months. A few weeks since a Mr. Anderson from Mo was driving some cattle to a ranch (a place for herding stock) a few miles from Weaverville, when he was attacked by the Indians who killed him and drove off his cattle, so as it was discovered a party followed in pursuit overtook and killed a hundred and twenty five of them -
The emigration to this country during the summer is expected to be much greater than at any year previous, it is no telling what effect it may have upon the country, whether it will develop mineral wealth that is yet unknown, or lessen the chance of those already here. The Chinese are flocking to this country in great numbers, capitalists, it is supposed have furnished large numbers with means to get here in consideration of which they (the Chinese) give their services for a mere song. In many portions of the mines, miners have past resolutions prohibiting their working among them. I regard this as the finest stock country in the world and if one would resolve to remain here six or eight years and be prudent and energetic he would be obliged to acquire wealth. I shall take up a ranch very soon though not with the purpose of remaining here, as I am resolved to return to Virginia in October and then be governed in my future movements by events - A gentleman, Mr. B (or R) Crenshaw of Lynchburg will soon be on his return to the old state, he has been very successful here, and will take with him a large amt of the “oro”-
I suppose that you have become so wedded to the peaks, that you could scarcely be contented to live elsewhere, in fact you doubtless will be soon meditating making an addition to your house hold in the person of Mrs. Leyburn Wilkes- this trip of mine has robbed me of many an hour of pleasure; I have learnt fully to appreciate the pleasure of society since I have been here and especially that of the fair, in fact I believe their can be no real happiness without them. How are they getting on with the Genessee and Lynchburg railroad, the creation of which allways brings to my memory your father and General Clay, the latter I suppose has no thought of anything else - If your father was to reside here a year, I think he would be very much pleased with the country, especially as he has such a fondness for fine stock. Miners who have been in the country a year or two are doing fully as well as they did in 50 and 51 because they have better machinery and work more systematically than ever before. The legislature --adjourned on Tuesday the 4th - I am not well ----ted (sic) up in politics and so cannot inform you how efficient their acts may prove. Let me insist again upon writing soon and direct your letters to Shasta City for which place and Trinity I will leave tomorrow, Remember me particularly to each member of your fathers family and their friends who may enquire after me.
yours truly
N Horsley
Dear Leyburn,
So remiss are my correspondents that occasionally I half resolve to write no more, but upon more mature reflection fear that I should be the only loser in acting upon such a resolve. You I cannot regard as a correspondent for though I have several times written to you, I have never been honored with so much as a line in reply. My distaste to writing has very much increased since I have been in the country, nevertheless so great is my anxiety to be particularly acquainted of what my old friends are doing that I would notwithstanding this feeling write often, if I had any encouragement whatever, if I receive no reply this shall be my last endeavor to wring a line from your honor. Everything has very much altered since I was here a year ago, the houses are larger, the inhabitants have become less transient and many have brought their families here, so that you may occasionally see a young lady on the street, indeed I saw some very fair specimens of beauty at the theater last night. In the cities and vallies(sic) you can now find all the comforts and luxuries common to the older state. In elegance of dress the ladies here far surpass those of the Atlantic states. I have made no acquaintances among them nor shall I seek to do so, but shall devote all my energies in the attainment of the object for which I come. My brother and myself are packing some forty mules that as we come to Sacramento, buy an assortment of goods which we ship to Colusa a town on the Sacramento, from that place we lash the freight about two hundred and fifty lbs. to a mule on the backs of the animals, and take it to Weaver and Trinity about two hundred miles distant from Colusa. . The Indians in the vicinity of Trinity are becoming more and more daring in their attacks upon persons and property, it is dangerous for small parties to cross the mountains; many persons have been killed and hundreds of mules and cattle stolen within the last few months. A few weeks since a Mr. Anderson from Mo was driving some cattle to a ranch (a place for herding stock) a few miles from Weaverville, when he was attacked by the Indians who killed him and drove off his cattle, so as it was discovered a party followed in pursuit overtook and killed a hundred and twenty five of them -
The emigration to this country during the summer is expected to be much greater than at any year previous, it is no telling what effect it may have upon the country, whether it will develop mineral wealth that is yet unknown, or lessen the chance of those already here. The Chinese are flocking to this country in great numbers, capitalists, it is supposed have furnished large numbers with means to get here in consideration of which they (the Chinese) give their services for a mere song. In many portions of the mines, miners have past resolutions prohibiting their working among them. I regard this as the finest stock country in the world and if one would resolve to remain here six or eight years and be prudent and energetic he would be obliged to acquire wealth. I shall take up a ranch very soon though not with the purpose of remaining here, as I am resolved to return to Virginia in October and then be governed in my future movements by events - A gentleman, Mr. B (or R) Crenshaw of Lynchburg will soon be on his return to the old state, he has been very successful here, and will take with him a large amt of the “oro”-
I suppose that you have become so wedded to the peaks, that you could scarcely be contented to live elsewhere, in fact you doubtless will be soon meditating making an addition to your house hold in the person of Mrs. Leyburn Wilkes- this trip of mine has robbed me of many an hour of pleasure; I have learnt fully to appreciate the pleasure of society since I have been here and especially that of the fair, in fact I believe their can be no real happiness without them. How are they getting on with the Genessee and Lynchburg railroad, the creation of which allways brings to my memory your father and General Clay, the latter I suppose has no thought of anything else - If your father was to reside here a year, I think he would be very much pleased with the country, especially as he has such a fondness for fine stock. Miners who have been in the country a year or two are doing fully as well as they did in 50 and 51 because they have better machinery and work more systematically than ever before. The legislature --adjourned on Tuesday the 4th - I am not well ----ted (sic) up in politics and so cannot inform you how efficient their acts may prove. Let me insist again upon writing soon and direct your letters to Shasta City for which place and Trinity I will leave tomorrow, Remember me particularly to each member of your fathers family and their friends who may enquire after me.
yours truly
N Horsley
The Piedmont Hotel
The Piedmont Hotel
In January of 1860, Benjamin Wilkes apparently decided to set Leyburn up in the hotel business in Lynchburg. It is possible that he felt sorry for Leyburn, who had lost his shirt in the Peaks of Otter business, or just was determined to see Leyburn be successful at something.
On the 25th of that month a bond (deed book W, p. 86) was recorded in Lynchburg for the following “loan” of furnishings from Benjamin to Leyburn to outfit the Piedmont Hotel near the depot of the Virginia and Tennessee railroad:
60 bedsteads
90 pair of blankets
120 spreads
150 pair of sheets
60 bolsters
120 pillows
240 pillow slips
30 bowls and pitchers
30 cooking (?) glasses
60 window shades
48 wash stands and tables
15 dozen chairs
2 sofas
Carpet for 26 rooms and intro passes
15 dinning tables
Benjamin reserved the right to remove the furnishings at any time during the three-year period of the loan. He obviously had his doubts as to whether Leyburn could handle the chore of running a major hotel, or at least wanted to exercise total control over the assets. There were no conditions placed on Benjamin’s right to revoke the deed. Leyburn clearly had to keep the old man happy.
In January of 1860, Benjamin Wilkes apparently decided to set Leyburn up in the hotel business in Lynchburg. It is possible that he felt sorry for Leyburn, who had lost his shirt in the Peaks of Otter business, or just was determined to see Leyburn be successful at something.
On the 25th of that month a bond (deed book W, p. 86) was recorded in Lynchburg for the following “loan” of furnishings from Benjamin to Leyburn to outfit the Piedmont Hotel near the depot of the Virginia and Tennessee railroad:
60 bedsteads
90 pair of blankets
120 spreads
150 pair of sheets
60 bolsters
120 pillows
240 pillow slips
30 bowls and pitchers
30 cooking (?) glasses
60 window shades
48 wash stands and tables
15 dozen chairs
2 sofas
Carpet for 26 rooms and intro passes
15 dinning tables
Benjamin reserved the right to remove the furnishings at any time during the three-year period of the loan. He obviously had his doubts as to whether Leyburn could handle the chore of running a major hotel, or at least wanted to exercise total control over the assets. There were no conditions placed on Benjamin’s right to revoke the deed. Leyburn clearly had to keep the old man happy.
James Duffel Facts
This was sent to me around 2000 from Margaret Wittle of CA--Vince
I was born in Roanoke but have lived in California for most of my life. We lived in the Los Angeles area until 12 years ago when we retired and moved to Fallbrook, CA. There was only one Duffel living in Donaldsonville, LA when I was last there in the early 90's. I was told he was about 18 or 20 but was unable to find him.The Duffel Jewelry Store and the Duffel Department Store buildings were there but unoccupied. We went to Woodstock Plantation, home of Dr. Edward Duffel (oldest son of Edward and Elizabeth), but only the "honeymoon cottage" and the pecan trees remained. We drove by Mulberry Grove ( home of Dr. Edward Duffel II). It has been restored and is very lovely. Let me know if you haven't seen Dr. Duffel's account of the Duffel family and I will send you a copy.
Margaret
Inscriptions on the tombs of Mrs. Deborah Leonard and James Duffel in Trinity Church Yard, New York City. Copied on 20th day Aug. 1817 by James. Duffel.
In Memory Of Deborah Leonard - widow of Samuel Leonard, formerly of Shrewsbury, New Jersey who departed this life Feb. 13 1800 aged 60 years.
In Memory Of James - only son of James and Rebeckah Duffel who departed this life 25th February 1802 - aged 6 years 2 months and 12 days
Beneath this stone a lovely child doth lay to cruel death a blooming early prey
His friends delight - his parents joy he proved and died lamented as he lived beloved.
Death: the Lynchburg virginian;oct.22,1835;p.3,c.3;jones library, Lynchburg.
buried in city cemetery, Lynchburg, Va. Near his brother Edward. Plaque
States "James duffel (1759-1835) revolutionary war soldier. Silversmith, whose
work is now prized by collectors.
duffel, James (11 v.r.) w.d. 231, 1; (15 v.r.) w.d. 275, 1
List of the revolutionary soldiers of Virginia, h. J. Eckenrode,
Archivist, Virginia state library 1913
from "silversmiths of Virginia" by George barton cutten. The dietz press, inc. Richmond, Va.
James duffel (1761-1835) was born in bucks co., Pa., The son of Barnabas duffel and Rebecca saunders.
Where he learned his trade we do not know - it may have been in Alexandria, va.
For he enlisted in the revolutionary army from that city.
According to ghaltney he was a corporal in the 5th and 11th va. Regiments of the continental line.
He is listed in the 1790 census as a resident of prince georges parish,
Georgetown district, south carolina and on jan. 2, 1799 he advertised in
Georgetown "any article of gold or silver can be made as usual on short
Notice."
! In 1800 he desired to remove from south carolina and requested all persons
Indebted to him to settle their accounts, but if there were those who wished to
Discharge their obligations in rice, he would receive that at cash price.
Georgetown at that time was a great rice producing area. He married Rebecca
Leonard of Shrewsbury, new jersey and new York city.
! The New York directory in 1801 contains his name with the information that
He was to be found at 349 pearl st.
! His eldest child and only son died in New York in 1802 aged 6 years.
Later that same year he moved to Fredericksburg, va. Where his brother Edward,
A merchant, had preceded him. On October 28 of that year, he thanked the
People of Fredericksburg for the encouragement they had given him and announced
That he had removed three doors above his former residence, to a tenement of
Capt. Mercers. In feb., 1804 he revealed that a negro girl had come to his
Shop and, under pretense of being sent by a neighboring lady, obtained four
Pairs of earrings, a breast pin and a finger ring. He asked that these be
Stopped if offered for sale.
! He continued to advertise watches, silver, plated ware, jewelry and guns,
Until on aug. 4, 1807 he gave notice that he intended moving to lynchburg
About the middle of the following month, and offered his stock for sale.
Whether he moved at this time or not has not been determined, but his younger
Daughter elizabeth was born in fredericksburg on oct. 19, 1809. His brother,
Edward, had gone to lynchburg, and here james followed him. The wives of
These two brothers were sisters.
! In 1810 he bought lot no. 13 in lynchburg and in 1811 lot no. 6 besides
Some other land near the city. In the latter year he was a member of the
Lynchburg city council, and in 1814 a director of the newly organized exchange
Bank of virginia.
! Not a little of his silver is still to be found around lynchburg and he
Evidently worked there for many years. In nov. 1817 he advertised that he
Intended to quit his present business and offered his stock for sale and the
House in which he lived for rent. Jewelry, silver and plated wear, watches,
Spectacles, rifles and shot guns, pistols, swords, epaulettes, whips and canes
Were for sale at greatly reduced prices until all was sold.
! On dec. 3, 1827 he bought a piece of land from william gatt's executors,
To which he added more frontage in 1828. This was the center of the towns
Business district.
! He had five daughters, and on the occasion of their marriages he gave each
A silver tea set which he had made. One of these is now in the possession of
Miss nannie watson of chatham, va., The wedding gift to her grandmother,
Elizabeth watson. Miss nellie gregory of lynchburg has the silver pitcher
Belonging to the set originally presented to her great grandmother deborah west
Gregory. James duffel died in lynchburg oct. 21, 1835.
I.duffel jd
capt. William grimes co.,15th va. Regiment of foot, commanded by colonel james
Innes. Subsequently known as 11th & 15th va. Regiment
Enlisted dec. 5th, 1776, appointed corporal aug. 1777.
Company muster roll for nov. 1779 dated almorrowtown
Dec. 9th 1779 name appears with remark relative to him "on command southward."
A DIRECTORY OF AMERICAN SILVER, PEWTER AND SILVER PLATE
by Ralph M. & Terry Kovel
Crown Publishers, Inc., NY p. 87.
James Duffel (b. 1761- d. 1835)
Georgetown, SC (c. 1790-1800)
New York, NY (c 1801)
Fredericksburg, VA (c. 1802-1807)
Lynchburg, VA (c. 1810-1828)
(Reproduces 4 of his marks)
SOUTH CAROLINA SILVERSMITHS 16-90-1860
by E. Milby Burton Director, the Charleston Museum
The Charleston Museum, Pub., Charleston, SC
pp. 235-236
James Duffel Working Georgetown, c .1790-1800, New York, NY, 1801 -
Duffel is listed in the 1790 census as being from Prince George's Parish, Georgetown district. He advertised in the Georgetown Gazette for January 2, 1799: "Any article of Gold and Silver can be made as usual at a short notice." The following year he informs the public that he intends removing from the State, and earnestly requests all persons indebted to him to pay their debts; otherwise he will be compelled to have recourse to legal measures. However, for the accommodation of those who prefer paying in rice, he will receive that commodity at cash price.
While it is well known that tobacco was used as a medium of exchange in early colonial days, especially in Virginia, it is not so generally known that rice was used in the same manner in South Carolina. At that time the Georgetown area was probably the greatest rice producing area in the Western Hemisphere.
It is reasonable to suppose that Duffel chose Georgetown as a location because he thought that since the surrounding rice plantations were owned by wealthy and distinguished families they would patronize his shop. That he was disappointed in any such hopes seems evident from his intention to "remove from the state." In any event, he disappears from Georgetown after 1800. It is possible that he went to New York; a James Duffel, silversmith, is listed for the first time in the New York directory for 1801.
In the collection of the Charleston Museum are some spoons marked I. Duffel in a rectangle.
I was born in Roanoke but have lived in California for most of my life. We lived in the Los Angeles area until 12 years ago when we retired and moved to Fallbrook, CA. There was only one Duffel living in Donaldsonville, LA when I was last there in the early 90's. I was told he was about 18 or 20 but was unable to find him.The Duffel Jewelry Store and the Duffel Department Store buildings were there but unoccupied. We went to Woodstock Plantation, home of Dr. Edward Duffel (oldest son of Edward and Elizabeth), but only the "honeymoon cottage" and the pecan trees remained. We drove by Mulberry Grove ( home of Dr. Edward Duffel II). It has been restored and is very lovely. Let me know if you haven't seen Dr. Duffel's account of the Duffel family and I will send you a copy.
Margaret
Inscriptions on the tombs of Mrs. Deborah Leonard and James Duffel in Trinity Church Yard, New York City. Copied on 20th day Aug. 1817 by James. Duffel.
In Memory Of Deborah Leonard - widow of Samuel Leonard, formerly of Shrewsbury, New Jersey who departed this life Feb. 13 1800 aged 60 years.
In Memory Of James - only son of James and Rebeckah Duffel who departed this life 25th February 1802 - aged 6 years 2 months and 12 days
Beneath this stone a lovely child doth lay to cruel death a blooming early prey
His friends delight - his parents joy he proved and died lamented as he lived beloved.
Death: the Lynchburg virginian;oct.22,1835;p.3,c.3;jones library, Lynchburg.
buried in city cemetery, Lynchburg, Va. Near his brother Edward. Plaque
States "James duffel (1759-1835) revolutionary war soldier. Silversmith, whose
work is now prized by collectors.
duffel, James (11 v.r.) w.d. 231, 1; (15 v.r.) w.d. 275, 1
List of the revolutionary soldiers of Virginia, h. J. Eckenrode,
Archivist, Virginia state library 1913
from "silversmiths of Virginia" by George barton cutten. The dietz press, inc. Richmond, Va.
James duffel (1761-1835) was born in bucks co., Pa., The son of Barnabas duffel and Rebecca saunders.
Where he learned his trade we do not know - it may have been in Alexandria, va.
For he enlisted in the revolutionary army from that city.
According to ghaltney he was a corporal in the 5th and 11th va. Regiments of the continental line.
He is listed in the 1790 census as a resident of prince georges parish,
Georgetown district, south carolina and on jan. 2, 1799 he advertised in
Georgetown "any article of gold or silver can be made as usual on short
Notice."
! In 1800 he desired to remove from south carolina and requested all persons
Indebted to him to settle their accounts, but if there were those who wished to
Discharge their obligations in rice, he would receive that at cash price.
Georgetown at that time was a great rice producing area. He married Rebecca
Leonard of Shrewsbury, new jersey and new York city.
! The New York directory in 1801 contains his name with the information that
He was to be found at 349 pearl st.
! His eldest child and only son died in New York in 1802 aged 6 years.
Later that same year he moved to Fredericksburg, va. Where his brother Edward,
A merchant, had preceded him. On October 28 of that year, he thanked the
People of Fredericksburg for the encouragement they had given him and announced
That he had removed three doors above his former residence, to a tenement of
Capt. Mercers. In feb., 1804 he revealed that a negro girl had come to his
Shop and, under pretense of being sent by a neighboring lady, obtained four
Pairs of earrings, a breast pin and a finger ring. He asked that these be
Stopped if offered for sale.
! He continued to advertise watches, silver, plated ware, jewelry and guns,
Until on aug. 4, 1807 he gave notice that he intended moving to lynchburg
About the middle of the following month, and offered his stock for sale.
Whether he moved at this time or not has not been determined, but his younger
Daughter elizabeth was born in fredericksburg on oct. 19, 1809. His brother,
Edward, had gone to lynchburg, and here james followed him. The wives of
These two brothers were sisters.
! In 1810 he bought lot no. 13 in lynchburg and in 1811 lot no. 6 besides
Some other land near the city. In the latter year he was a member of the
Lynchburg city council, and in 1814 a director of the newly organized exchange
Bank of virginia.
! Not a little of his silver is still to be found around lynchburg and he
Evidently worked there for many years. In nov. 1817 he advertised that he
Intended to quit his present business and offered his stock for sale and the
House in which he lived for rent. Jewelry, silver and plated wear, watches,
Spectacles, rifles and shot guns, pistols, swords, epaulettes, whips and canes
Were for sale at greatly reduced prices until all was sold.
! On dec. 3, 1827 he bought a piece of land from william gatt's executors,
To which he added more frontage in 1828. This was the center of the towns
Business district.
! He had five daughters, and on the occasion of their marriages he gave each
A silver tea set which he had made. One of these is now in the possession of
Miss nannie watson of chatham, va., The wedding gift to her grandmother,
Elizabeth watson. Miss nellie gregory of lynchburg has the silver pitcher
Belonging to the set originally presented to her great grandmother deborah west
Gregory. James duffel died in lynchburg oct. 21, 1835.
I.duffel jd
capt. William grimes co.,15th va. Regiment of foot, commanded by colonel james
Innes. Subsequently known as 11th & 15th va. Regiment
Enlisted dec. 5th, 1776, appointed corporal aug. 1777.
Company muster roll for nov. 1779 dated almorrowtown
Dec. 9th 1779 name appears with remark relative to him "on command southward."
A DIRECTORY OF AMERICAN SILVER, PEWTER AND SILVER PLATE
by Ralph M. & Terry Kovel
Crown Publishers, Inc., NY p. 87.
James Duffel (b. 1761- d. 1835)
Georgetown, SC (c. 1790-1800)
New York, NY (c 1801)
Fredericksburg, VA (c. 1802-1807)
Lynchburg, VA (c. 1810-1828)
(Reproduces 4 of his marks)
SOUTH CAROLINA SILVERSMITHS 16-90-1860
by E. Milby Burton Director, the Charleston Museum
The Charleston Museum, Pub., Charleston, SC
pp. 235-236
James Duffel Working Georgetown, c .1790-1800, New York, NY, 1801 -
Duffel is listed in the 1790 census as being from Prince George's Parish, Georgetown district. He advertised in the Georgetown Gazette for January 2, 1799: "Any article of Gold and Silver can be made as usual at a short notice." The following year he informs the public that he intends removing from the State, and earnestly requests all persons indebted to him to pay their debts; otherwise he will be compelled to have recourse to legal measures. However, for the accommodation of those who prefer paying in rice, he will receive that commodity at cash price.
While it is well known that tobacco was used as a medium of exchange in early colonial days, especially in Virginia, it is not so generally known that rice was used in the same manner in South Carolina. At that time the Georgetown area was probably the greatest rice producing area in the Western Hemisphere.
It is reasonable to suppose that Duffel chose Georgetown as a location because he thought that since the surrounding rice plantations were owned by wealthy and distinguished families they would patronize his shop. That he was disappointed in any such hopes seems evident from his intention to "remove from the state." In any event, he disappears from Georgetown after 1800. It is possible that he went to New York; a James Duffel, silversmith, is listed for the first time in the New York directory for 1801.
In the collection of the Charleston Museum are some spoons marked I. Duffel in a rectangle.
Reubenetta Burch Wilkes
The remains of Mrs. Reubenetta Burch Wilks, who died at the home of her daughter, Mrs. White, at Crewe Saturday afternoon, were brought to the city yesterday on train no. 17 on the Norfolk & Western. They were met by family and friends who followed them to their last resting-place in Spring Hill Cemetery. The deceased was 68 years of age and the widow of the Late Corbin Wilks. She was a sister of Former Mayor George H. Burch, of this city, and is survived four sons and three daughters.
Died 8/5/1907
The News, Lynchburg, VA. Aug 6, 1907 p. 10, col 2
Died 8/5/1907
The News, Lynchburg, VA. Aug 6, 1907 p. 10, col 2
Monday, September 8, 2008
Wilkes History
Generation No. 4
13. Benjamin4 WILKES, Sr. (Francis,3 John,2 Sr., Francis1) was born in 1801, probably in Franklin County, Virginia, and died 10 Nov 1886 in Bedford County, Virginia. Benjamin’s place of birth has not been proved. Benjamin is listed as being born in Virginia on the 1850 and 1860 censuses, but on the 1870 census, he is listed as being born in Ohio. In A History of Bedford County, it is reported that Benjamin was born in Montgomery County, Virginia. On Benjamin’s marriage license to Mary Bell, it is reported that Benjamin was born in Franklin County, Virginia, ca. 1804 to Francis and Elizabeth Wilks. Many of Benjamin’s descendants believe that he was born in Chillicothe, Ohio.
Further research is needed on Benjamin’s father, Francis Wilks. Francis signed indentures in Franklin County, Virginia, in 1787, 1789, 1795, 1797, 1803, and 1804, and his wife, Elizabeth, signed the 1803 indenture. Based upon these records, I believe that Benjamin was born in Franklin County.
It seems that Francis removed from Franklin County to Patrick County between 1804 and 1808. Francis sold land in Patrick County in 1808 and 1815; was on the 1810 Patrick County Tax List, and served on the Patrick County Grand Jury in 1814 and 1815. The whereabouts of Francis between 1815 and 1837 is unknown. Francis’ letter of 1837/1839 from Lawrence County, Ohio, sounds as though he had lived there previously. There is a Francis Wilks listed on the 1810 and 1820 censuses in Lawrence County. It is not known if one or both of these Francis is the son of John and the father of Benjamin.
Benjamin married (1) Matilda DUFFEL 17 Dec 1827 in Lynchburg, Virginia. The Lynchburg weekly newspaper, Virginian, page 3, column 2, reported the date of marriage as 20 Dec 1827. Rev. Ryland officiated. Daughter of James Duffel and Rebecca Leonard, Matilda was born 20 Feb 1804 in Fredericks-burg, Virginia, and died 21 Sep 1878 in Bedford County, Virginia, at 75 years of age. Benjamin married (2) Mary L. BELL, daughter of William L. and Elizabeth Bell, 22 Sep 1881 in Bedford County. John G. Shippman officiated. Benjamin was 78 years old, and Mary was 54 years old.
It is interesting to note that James Duffel was a great-grandson of James Steel who came to this country from England as private secretary to William Penn and secretary of the Province in which the Penn Quaker Colony was located. James Duffel and his brother, Edward, were born in Bucks County, Pennsylvania. James Duffel, while working in Alexandria as an apprentice in silver smithing, volunteered for service with the Continental Army. He served as Corporal, 5th and 11th Continental Lines, and he is listed in Gwaltney’s Historical Register of Virginians in the Revolution. James worked in Fredericksburg County for several years before joining his brother, Edward in Lynchburg, Virginia, in 1809.
Listed in Bedford County Birth Records 1853-1856 are slaves owned by Benjamin Wilkes:
James and John Wilkes (twins), b. May 1854 to Eliza Lucinda Wilkes, b. Dec 1854 to Eliza
Male Wilks, b. Feb 1855 to Sophiah Female Wilks, b. Mar 1855 to Elizabeth
Malinda and Lucinda Wilks (twins), b. 12 May 1856 to Eliza Burwell Wilks, b. Jan 1856 to Sophiah
Listed in Bedford County Death Records, page 45, is: Henry, Slave, died Nov 1857 from Typhoid Fever at 35 years of age. Owner: Benjamin Wilks. Informant: N. Horsely (friend).
Virginia Census Listings for Benjamin Wilks
1830 Campbell County -p. 393 1860 Bedford County 1870 Bedford County
Benjamin Wilks Forest Depot - Northern Charlemont Twp., p. 118
1 Male (5-10) District – p. 378 – 24 Aug Liberty P.O. – 23 Aug
1 Male (20-30) Benjamin Wilks (55), b. VA Benjamin Wilks (70), b. OH
1 Female (10-15) Matilda Wilks (52) Matilda Wilks (66)
1 Female (20-30) Corbin Wilks (22) *Mary Gregory (50), Teacher
10 Slaves Farm Manager R.E.: $5,000; P.P.: $5,000
James Wilks (20) Servants: Inson Staples (12), Betsy
1850 Campbell County Benjamin Wilks (16) Anthony (26), Sarah Jeffreys (15)
08 Aug – p. 138 R.E. $115,000; P.P. $63,000
Benjamin Wilks (46), b. VA 1880 Bedford County – E.D. 22
Matilda Wilks (43) *Mary may be daughter of Deborah Otter Dist. - 05 June
Leyburn Wilks (19) West Duffel Gregory who was born Benjamin Wilks (79), b. VA
Elizabeth Wilks (15) born in 1817 and died 15 Jan 1881, Benjamin A. Wilks (21),
Henry Wilks (14) and thus Matilda’s niece. Grandson, b. VA
Corbin Wilks (12) . **Walker Bowman (16),
James Wilks (11) **Walker Bowman (16), Student Grandson, b. VA
Kitty [Matilda] Wilks (8) boarder also listed with Wm. R.
Benjamin Wilks (6) Abbott, Teacher.
Richard Horsley (22), Tutor
In the Bedford County Order Books are the following records for Benjamin Wilks:
Nov Term 1837: Book No. 26, 77. Ordered that Benjamin Wilks be released from the payment of taxes on a tract of land lying partly in the County of Campbell and Bedford, purchased of George Martin in 1833, it appearing to the . . . satisfaction of the Court that . . . Benjamin Wilks is to wit with the said land in the County of Campbell.
December Court 1846: Book No. 29, 311. Ordered that Benjamin Wilks and Charles Henry Lynch . . . settle the account of the estate of Samuel P. Davies.
March Court 1847: No. 29, 347. Benjamin Wilkes petitioned for alterations in the public road leading from Faney Charin by Sam Colemans.
June Court 1849; June Court 1850: Book No. 30, 227, 385. On the motion of Benjamin Wilkes who produced the sheriffs receipt for the tax imposed by law license is granted him to keep a house of private entertainment in his house in this County until the next May Term of this Court.
June Court 1852: Book No. 31, 128. Ordered that the hands of Thomas B. Jopling, Edison D. Moore, Alexander H. Russell, Caleb Mead, Benjamin Wilks, Thomas L. Sanders, Mrs. David Sanders, J., William Hobson, John Wilson, John Goods, James Wilson and Mrs. Frances Christian afsist Thomas B. Jopling in keeping the road of which he is surveyor in good repair.
June Court 1853: Book No. 31, 278. Ordered that William H. Ore, A. Cresham Kimintz, Benjamin Wilks, Jeremiah Hackworth, William Johnson and Alexander Johnson be appointed as patrol in this County for three months and that . . . William H. Ore act as Captain. . . .
January Court 1854: Book No. 31, 360. Joplings petition for road. Benjamin Wilks enters himself party defendant to this motion and moved to quash the proceedings in this case and the Court declined hearing said motion at present and the Case continued till next Court.
November Court 1854: Book No. 31, 500. Ordered that the hands of Benjamin Wilks work under Thomas B. Jopling Surveyor of road.
January Court 1855: Book No. 31, 527. On the motion of Thomas L. Sanders and Gustavius A. Sanders, Executors of David Sanders deceased, it is ordered that Benjamin Wilks, Granville A. Brown, Jefse L. Hopkins, Mumford Woodford, Thomas Wilkerson, William Lond and William I. Read or any three of them divide and allot the slaves belonging to the estate of . . . David Sanders deceased giving those entitled thereto and make a report thereof to Court.
During the early 1850s, Benjamin Wilkes operated an ordinary at the Peaks of Otter on the road from Liberty to Buchanan. “Ordinary” and “tavern” were virtually synonymous in antebellum Virginia.
“Ordinaries were located on main roads or turnpikes and were required to provide lodging and meals for guests and food and stable facilities for horses. Houses of private entertainment were usually located in private homes and were scattered throughout the county; they were not required to be on principal thoroughfares. They might provide room and meals for several persons and corresponded to a local boarding house or a ‘bed and breakfast’ arrangement.”
From Bedford County Deed Books, Jacques Miller compiled the following records:
5 Sep 1843: Book 30, 386. Polly Wood relinquished her dower right to 89½ acres to Benjamin Wilkes for $100. (This was Wilkes’ first purchase of land at the Peaks.)
16 Oct 1843: Book 30, 516. Edward and Elizabeth Hunter of St. Charles County, MO deeded Benjamin Wilkes . . . 48½ acres . . . allotted to John Wood in the division of Jeremiah Wood estate and . . . 49½ acres . . . allotted to Nancy Turner, wife of Malancthon Turner . . . for $620.
4 Mar 1850: Book 38, 404. Richard Davis deeded Benjamin Wilkes, 345 acres for $500.
20 Aug 1851: Book 38, 404. John and Caroline Thompson deeded Benjamin Wilkes, 1500 acres that included Sharp Top and 1200 acres that included Flat Top, all for $2700.
29 Dec 1851: Book 35, 447. James and Juda Wilson deeded Benjamin Wilkes, 100 acres for $600. This land borderd land held by Wilkes, Jopling and Whiteley.
10 Nov 1852: Book 36, 50. Edwin and Sarah Moore deeded Benjamin Wilkes, 240¼ acres for $5; 29¾ acres on Forest Road and joint interest in 5 acres, 16 perches (?) containing Woodson Store.
26 Feb 1853: Book 36, 94. Edwin and Sarah Moore deeded Benjamin Wilkes, a tract of 550 acres and a 5-acre tract on the Virginia & Tennessee Railroad, for $3000, bounded by Spotswood Brown, John Leftwich, John Goode and Noell.
The residence on the above property is Lochwood Hall.
“The old brick residence, mellowed with age and marked with individuality, can be seen from
the highway for miles. It commands a magnificent view of the Blue Ridge Mountains and their picturesque foothills. The main three-story dwelling was built before the Revolutionary War, the architectural features, high ceilings, paneled walls, carved mantels, and deep recessed windows being similar to many of the James River houses built in that period. The builder’s idea of permanence is indicated by the twenty-inch brick walls, which are still in excellent condition. Soon after 1852 additional rooms were built by Benjamin Wilkes.
Lochwood Hall
Picture from Vincent M. Wilkes
“According to tradition a row of old trees which stand as sentinels along the carriage drive were named for the Confederate Generals in whose time they were planted. It was during Hunter’s raid through Bedford County that his men took possession of this place, confiscating contents of the smokehouse and slaughtering the cattle for the use of their troops.
“On the south side of the house lies the formal English box-wood garden, where narcissi and golden daffodils border a carpet of blue periwinkle. The north side of the lawn sweeps
down to the old slave quarters, near which are grouped the smoke house, a stone icehouse and the interesting dairy room with its many stone shelves.”
Originally built by William Leftwich, in the 1790’s, this was Benjamin Wilks’ home for many years. He named it Carlotta after the wife of Maximilian, Austrian emperor of Mexico. The name was later changed to Lochwood Hall. It is now a historical monument in Bedford County.
17 May 1853: Book 36, 148. Cornelius and Nancy Noell deeded Benjamin Wilkes, 302 acres on the north side of Big Otter River below the Forest Road for $1850.
17 Jul 1853: Book 36, 325. Samuel Garland to Benjamin Wilkes a deed of release by the surviving trustee of Cornelius Noell, Sr.
27 Feb 1854: Book 36, 423. Anderson and Slaughter, commissioners in Anderson vs Steptoe deeded Benjamin Wilkes, 620 acres on Faggs Branch for $6 per acre.
15 April 1854: Book 37, 254. Spotswood and Elizabeth Brown deeded Benjamin Wilkes, 29 acres, 2 roods and 31 poles on the Forest Road from Lynchburg to Liberty for $550.
24 Oct 1856: Book 39, 42. Erasmus and Catherine Noell deeded Benjamin Wilkes, 46 acres, 1 rood and 24 poles of land adjacent to Wilkes.
11 Dec 1856: Book 45, 90. Benjamin and Matilda Wilkes deeded Erasmus T Noell, some 4 acres, 2 roods and 15 poles, this land being cut off the Anderson Tract for $100.
30 Dec 1857: Book 40, 263. Benjamin and Matilda Wilkes deeded John Cofer, 301 acres on Boyd’s road, adjoining land of Wilson, Hunter, Harris and Padget, for $2000. (This is land that Wilkes had previously bought from Richard Davis.)
4 Dec 1858: Book 40, 209. William W Jopling, commissioner for the Jopling family, deeded Benjamin Wilkes, 357 acres, 3 roods and 14 poles of land for $1073.51.
3 Jan 1859: Book 40, 262. Benjamin and Matilda Wilkes deeded Thomas B Jopling, 42½ acres of land (previously bought from Richard Davis by Wilkes) on Moor’s road, adjoining land of Joplin and Hunter for $800.
21 Jul 1860: Book 42, 538. Cornelius Noell, commissioner for the estate of Cornelius Noell, Sr., deeded Benjamin Wilkes, 1854.188 acres on the east side of Big Otter River for $1. Land on Forest road and adjoining land of Wilkes and Erasmus Noell.
5 Mar 1862: Book 43, 12. Benjamin and Matilda Wilkes deeded Thomas B Jopling, some 42 acres as described in a deed in Book 40, Page 262, for $840 “not now being recollected, paid in part and the balance secured to be paid.”
15 Feb 1867: Book 43, 298. Robert N Kelso, commissioner in the cause of John Tinsley and wife vs Allison Jeter and others, deeded Benjamin Wilkes, 403½ acres adjoining land of William A Hardy, Lawson S Hurt, E M Carnefix and others. This is land that was sold to Aneas Hunter or his assignee, Benjamin Wilkes, for $13.20/acre ($5326.20).
22 Jan 1869: Book 44, 198. Benjamin Wilkes deeded Edmund Arrington, 220 acres on the “south slope of Flat Top Peak of Otter,” for $500 paid to Nicholas Horsley.
12 Aug 1869: Book 44, 343. Nancy Woodford deeded Benjamin Wilkes, 238 acres “it being the land on which Nancy Woodford now lives” for $500.
8 Aug 1872: Book 46, 315. Benjamin and Matilda Wilkes deeded Charles F Plant, 403½ acres, about five miles north of Liberty, for $5000. This land, on which John Jeter resided at the time of his death, was conveyed to Benjamin Wilkes by Robert N Kelso, commissioner, on 15 Feb 1867.
28 Jul 1873: Book 47, 100. Anne E Bolling of Wythe County deeded Benjamin Wilkes, 250 acres for $3000.
22 Aug 1876: Book 49, 180. Charles A Bower, commissioner in the cause of Jesse T Hopkins vs John Goode, deeded Benjamin Wilkes, 150 acres, 2 roods of land near Goodes Crossing on both sides of the Atlantic, Mississippi & Ohio Road, for $14.25 per acre. ($2137.50) This was land that had belonged to John Goode.
20 Jan 1879: Book 51, 319–324. These pages include four deeds executed by Benjamin Wilkes in which he makes gifts of land to each of his four living sons “in consideration of his natural love and affection for his son(s) and to (their) children.”
To Corbin Wilkes 447 acres and 2 roods of land near Goode’s Crossing and on the Big Otter River. Also a half interest in Wilkes Mill and an option to buy the remaining half for $1500.
To Leyburn Wilkes 249 acres and 33 poles being the same land conveyed to Benjamin from Ann Bolling on 28 July 1873.
To Benjamin Wilkes, Jr., 307 acres and 32 poles on Forest road.
To Henry C Wilkes 620 acres acquired from Anderson & Slaughter on 27 Feb 1854. And about one acre of the Moore tract lying near the main entrance to the above tract.
Each deed contained restrictions: “. . . if the said land or any part thereof shall hereafter be sold or exchanged it shall not be . . . for anything but other real estate and the proceeds of any sale shall be reinvested in real estate and . . . the real estate acquired by such exchange or reinvestment must be held subject to all of the trusts, limitations and restrictions herein before expressed but no such sale or exchange of said property or any part thereof, shall be made during the life time of . . . Benjamin Wilkes, except with his written consent nor after his death excepting under the direction and control of some court of the County of Bedford having jurisdiction of trust estates.”
5 Jan 1880: Book 52, 291. Benjamin Wilkes deeded John C and Cary A Mooormaw, 413¼ acres on the north side of Forest road for $12,397.50.
8 Mar 1880: Book 52, 503. Benjamin Wilkes deeded John H and James H Hopkins as the highest bidders, 356½ acres a.k.a. Harken Hill Tract for $6.20/acre. ($2210.30)
28 Jun 1880: Book 52, 547. Benjamin Wilkes deeded John T Johnson at auction Tract #3 @ 52 acres and Tract #9 @ 129 acres. (No price given)
26 Jan 1883: Book 56, 93. Benjamin and Mary Bell Wilkes, his wife, deeded Henry A Woodford 221 acres on both sides of Blackwater road adjoining Henry Woodford for $669.96½.
16 Feb 1883: Book 55, 528. Commissioners for Benjamin Wilkes deeded John Nix, 160 ¾ acres at the foot of the Peaks of Otter on both sides of the Buchanan to Liberty Turnpike where Nicholas Horsley recently resided a.k.a Home Tract. (no price given)
24 Feb 1883: Book 56, 486. Benjamin Wilkes deeded James L Lacks as highest bidder, some 109 acres for $0.55/acre. ($59.95 for Lot #6 in the division of land on the Peaks)
The following is an excerpt from Bedford County, Virginia, 1840-1860, a book found in the Virginia Room at the Roanoke City Main Library by Vincent Wilkes.
“Wilkes epitomizes the entrepreneurial spirit of pioneer America and obviously had faith in the growth potential of the Peaks area. As early as 1849, Wilkes was granted a license to keep a House of private entertainment, which he ran with the help of one of his sons, Leyburn Wilkes.
Wilkes had discovered the boom of the tourist trade, and he and his son moved quickly to capitalize on it. In 1853, Wilkes petitioned the General Assembly for per-mission to construct toll roads up to Flat Top and Sharp Top to collect monies from the increasingly numerous sightseers.
Peaks of Otter – Picture from Vincent M. Wilkes
By 1855, Leyburn Wilkes had acquired a license for ‘wine and ardent spirits to be drunk and sold’
at the ordinary.
Then in 1857, Leyburn Wilkes began to build the first hotel in the area, called the Otter Peaks Hotel, with accommodations for 50 people. A local resident of the area at the time, John W. Early, described the complex as consisting of ‘Hotel, cabin with four rooms—eight rooms in the Hotel—store house with two rooms—another cabin of two rooms—kitchen—smokehouse—Springhouse—an overseer’s house—wagoner’s house—corn house and large stable—and a rock house on top of the Peaks [Sharp Top] with tin roof.’
A visitor to the hotel, Henry Morgan, described his experience this way: In less than half a mile from the spring we come to the celebrated ‘Otter Peak’s House’ kept by Mr. Leyburn Wilkes. Better accommodations, more prompt and ready service, and amid more delightful scenery could not be desired. Mr. Wilkes is a young man, kind and affable, whose chief delight is to make the visitors cheerful and happy. He owns both of these mountains, which in time must prove a source
of incalculable wealth. His buildings multiply with the increase of travel, and no labor or expense will be spared to make this the most attractive watering place in America. The air is cool and
salubrious, and in the hottest season an exhilarating breeze sweeps through the mountain pass, while the low lands of the State are parched, sultry and infected.”
In Bedford County Order Book 34, page 463, is the following record:
We the undersigned cald. [sic] On by Benj. Wilkes of Bedford County Va. To value the damage dun (sic) him by Bir Gel Crooks Armey [sic] on 17th June 1864 we have valued each article separate and class them under the following heads,
Live stock valued at $20,400 Damage done Plantation &c 11,840
Negroes “ “ 50,000 Damage done Mill 3,000
Provision 62,160 $147,400
Jas. W. Harris, Thos. M. Wilkinson, Thos. B. Jopling
Benjamin Wilkes’ Last Will and Testament of 01 Jan 1880 was recorded in Bedford Court 24 Dec 1886:
I give to Walker Bowman, son of my youngest daughter, the balance of the Moore track of land bound by the lines of the Leobb track lying on both sides of the railroad which includes a part of the Leobb track on both sides of the railroad, then by the lot of T.E. Lowery. The old road to the Forest road then with the Forest road to my son Corbin’s line, as before mentioned passing through the woods.
I give to my son Leyburn the last two bonds due on the Jeter track of land to be held by him for his children.
I give to my two grandsons, Benjamin and Cabbell Horsely, the balance of my Woodford track of land after cutting off thirty acres sold Henry Woodford. I also give them the track bought by my grandson Cabbell at the sale of the Peak property.
I give my granddaughter Mattie Wilkes, daughter of Leyburn, and Miss Sarah McGregory [Sarah may be Sarah Matilda Gregory, daughter of Deborah West Duffel Gregory and niece of Matilda Duffel Wilks] five hundred dollars each for their kindness to me.
I also give Walker Bowman all the stock in the land with the household and the kitchen furniture and also the production on the land with crops grown and crops growing with any rents that may be due from tenants on said land.
The balance of my estate both personal and rail [sic] I give to my granddaughters to be managed and controlled for their benefit by my exactor Walker Bowman, who I appoint to act without security as long as he remains single. If he should marry, he then shall give security.
Walker declined to “take upon himself the burden of execution” of the will. Two members of the court posted $10,000 bond and acted as executors. The will was apparently contested and the court action was moved to corporation court in Roanoke.
Children of Benjamin Wilkes, Sr., and Matilda Duffell are:
40. i. Leyburn5 WILKES, b. 12 Jun 1831, Lynchburg, VA; d. 07 Apr 1891.
41. ii. Elizabeth WILKES, b. ca. 1835; d. 1864.
42. iii. Henry C. WILKES, b. Oct 1836.
43. iv. Corbin WILKES, b. 05 Sep 1837, Campbell County, VA, and d. 26 Dec 1881.
v. James Duffel WILKES, b. aft. 15 Jul 1839, Lynchburg, VA; d. 15 Jul 1862, Bedford County, TX. Vincent Miller Wilkes shared with me the following entry in the Horsely Family Bible, written by Elizabeth Wilkes Horsely.
“James Duffel Wilkes, son of Matilda Duffel and Benjamin Wilkes, was born after 15 July 1839 in Lynchburg, VA. He died 15 July 1862 of Erysipelas in Bedford County, VA. Died . . . in the 22nd year of his age. Ah, dear Jimmie it was hard to give thee up, it wrings our poor disconsolate hearts to think that thy noble form, once the pride and joy of us all, should now be lying in the cold and silent grave. Oh that thy dear soul hath taken its flight to a far better and happier world, the only consolation that we have dear Brother in this sad bereavement, in the hope that we may be prepared to meet thee in that upper and better kingdom where parting is no more. Fare thee well Dear Jimmie, fare thee well.”
44. vi. Catherine “Kitty” Matilda WILKS, b. 1842.
45. vii. Benjamin WILKES, Jr., b. 13 or 18 May 1844 in Campbell County, VA; d. in 1920.
Do any of you have the documented DOB for Benjamin Wilkes, Jr.?
13. Benjamin4 WILKES, Sr. (Francis,3 John,2 Sr., Francis1) was born in 1801, probably in Franklin County, Virginia, and died 10 Nov 1886 in Bedford County, Virginia. Benjamin’s place of birth has not been proved. Benjamin is listed as being born in Virginia on the 1850 and 1860 censuses, but on the 1870 census, he is listed as being born in Ohio. In A History of Bedford County, it is reported that Benjamin was born in Montgomery County, Virginia. On Benjamin’s marriage license to Mary Bell, it is reported that Benjamin was born in Franklin County, Virginia, ca. 1804 to Francis and Elizabeth Wilks. Many of Benjamin’s descendants believe that he was born in Chillicothe, Ohio.
Further research is needed on Benjamin’s father, Francis Wilks. Francis signed indentures in Franklin County, Virginia, in 1787, 1789, 1795, 1797, 1803, and 1804, and his wife, Elizabeth, signed the 1803 indenture. Based upon these records, I believe that Benjamin was born in Franklin County.
It seems that Francis removed from Franklin County to Patrick County between 1804 and 1808. Francis sold land in Patrick County in 1808 and 1815; was on the 1810 Patrick County Tax List, and served on the Patrick County Grand Jury in 1814 and 1815. The whereabouts of Francis between 1815 and 1837 is unknown. Francis’ letter of 1837/1839 from Lawrence County, Ohio, sounds as though he had lived there previously. There is a Francis Wilks listed on the 1810 and 1820 censuses in Lawrence County. It is not known if one or both of these Francis is the son of John and the father of Benjamin.
Benjamin married (1) Matilda DUFFEL 17 Dec 1827 in Lynchburg, Virginia. The Lynchburg weekly newspaper, Virginian, page 3, column 2, reported the date of marriage as 20 Dec 1827. Rev. Ryland officiated. Daughter of James Duffel and Rebecca Leonard, Matilda was born 20 Feb 1804 in Fredericks-burg, Virginia, and died 21 Sep 1878 in Bedford County, Virginia, at 75 years of age. Benjamin married (2) Mary L. BELL, daughter of William L. and Elizabeth Bell, 22 Sep 1881 in Bedford County. John G. Shippman officiated. Benjamin was 78 years old, and Mary was 54 years old.
It is interesting to note that James Duffel was a great-grandson of James Steel who came to this country from England as private secretary to William Penn and secretary of the Province in which the Penn Quaker Colony was located. James Duffel and his brother, Edward, were born in Bucks County, Pennsylvania. James Duffel, while working in Alexandria as an apprentice in silver smithing, volunteered for service with the Continental Army. He served as Corporal, 5th and 11th Continental Lines, and he is listed in Gwaltney’s Historical Register of Virginians in the Revolution. James worked in Fredericksburg County for several years before joining his brother, Edward in Lynchburg, Virginia, in 1809.
Listed in Bedford County Birth Records 1853-1856 are slaves owned by Benjamin Wilkes:
James and John Wilkes (twins), b. May 1854 to Eliza Lucinda Wilkes, b. Dec 1854 to Eliza
Male Wilks, b. Feb 1855 to Sophiah Female Wilks, b. Mar 1855 to Elizabeth
Malinda and Lucinda Wilks (twins), b. 12 May 1856 to Eliza Burwell Wilks, b. Jan 1856 to Sophiah
Listed in Bedford County Death Records, page 45, is: Henry, Slave, died Nov 1857 from Typhoid Fever at 35 years of age. Owner: Benjamin Wilks. Informant: N. Horsely (friend).
Virginia Census Listings for Benjamin Wilks
1830 Campbell County -p. 393 1860 Bedford County 1870 Bedford County
Benjamin Wilks Forest Depot - Northern Charlemont Twp., p. 118
1 Male (5-10) District – p. 378 – 24 Aug Liberty P.O. – 23 Aug
1 Male (20-30) Benjamin Wilks (55), b. VA Benjamin Wilks (70), b. OH
1 Female (10-15) Matilda Wilks (52) Matilda Wilks (66)
1 Female (20-30) Corbin Wilks (22) *Mary Gregory (50), Teacher
10 Slaves Farm Manager R.E.: $5,000; P.P.: $5,000
James Wilks (20) Servants: Inson Staples (12), Betsy
1850 Campbell County Benjamin Wilks (16) Anthony (26), Sarah Jeffreys (15)
08 Aug – p. 138 R.E. $115,000; P.P. $63,000
Benjamin Wilks (46), b. VA 1880 Bedford County – E.D. 22
Matilda Wilks (43) *Mary may be daughter of Deborah Otter Dist. - 05 June
Leyburn Wilks (19) West Duffel Gregory who was born Benjamin Wilks (79), b. VA
Elizabeth Wilks (15) born in 1817 and died 15 Jan 1881, Benjamin A. Wilks (21),
Henry Wilks (14) and thus Matilda’s niece. Grandson, b. VA
Corbin Wilks (12) . **Walker Bowman (16),
James Wilks (11) **Walker Bowman (16), Student Grandson, b. VA
Kitty [Matilda] Wilks (8) boarder also listed with Wm. R.
Benjamin Wilks (6) Abbott, Teacher.
Richard Horsley (22), Tutor
In the Bedford County Order Books are the following records for Benjamin Wilks:
Nov Term 1837: Book No. 26, 77. Ordered that Benjamin Wilks be released from the payment of taxes on a tract of land lying partly in the County of Campbell and Bedford, purchased of George Martin in 1833, it appearing to the . . . satisfaction of the Court that . . . Benjamin Wilks is to wit with the said land in the County of Campbell.
December Court 1846: Book No. 29, 311. Ordered that Benjamin Wilks and Charles Henry Lynch . . . settle the account of the estate of Samuel P. Davies.
March Court 1847: No. 29, 347. Benjamin Wilkes petitioned for alterations in the public road leading from Faney Charin by Sam Colemans.
June Court 1849; June Court 1850: Book No. 30, 227, 385. On the motion of Benjamin Wilkes who produced the sheriffs receipt for the tax imposed by law license is granted him to keep a house of private entertainment in his house in this County until the next May Term of this Court.
June Court 1852: Book No. 31, 128. Ordered that the hands of Thomas B. Jopling, Edison D. Moore, Alexander H. Russell, Caleb Mead, Benjamin Wilks, Thomas L. Sanders, Mrs. David Sanders, J., William Hobson, John Wilson, John Goods, James Wilson and Mrs. Frances Christian afsist Thomas B. Jopling in keeping the road of which he is surveyor in good repair.
June Court 1853: Book No. 31, 278. Ordered that William H. Ore, A. Cresham Kimintz, Benjamin Wilks, Jeremiah Hackworth, William Johnson and Alexander Johnson be appointed as patrol in this County for three months and that . . . William H. Ore act as Captain. . . .
January Court 1854: Book No. 31, 360. Joplings petition for road. Benjamin Wilks enters himself party defendant to this motion and moved to quash the proceedings in this case and the Court declined hearing said motion at present and the Case continued till next Court.
November Court 1854: Book No. 31, 500. Ordered that the hands of Benjamin Wilks work under Thomas B. Jopling Surveyor of road.
January Court 1855: Book No. 31, 527. On the motion of Thomas L. Sanders and Gustavius A. Sanders, Executors of David Sanders deceased, it is ordered that Benjamin Wilks, Granville A. Brown, Jefse L. Hopkins, Mumford Woodford, Thomas Wilkerson, William Lond and William I. Read or any three of them divide and allot the slaves belonging to the estate of . . . David Sanders deceased giving those entitled thereto and make a report thereof to Court.
During the early 1850s, Benjamin Wilkes operated an ordinary at the Peaks of Otter on the road from Liberty to Buchanan. “Ordinary” and “tavern” were virtually synonymous in antebellum Virginia.
“Ordinaries were located on main roads or turnpikes and were required to provide lodging and meals for guests and food and stable facilities for horses. Houses of private entertainment were usually located in private homes and were scattered throughout the county; they were not required to be on principal thoroughfares. They might provide room and meals for several persons and corresponded to a local boarding house or a ‘bed and breakfast’ arrangement.”
From Bedford County Deed Books, Jacques Miller compiled the following records:
5 Sep 1843: Book 30, 386. Polly Wood relinquished her dower right to 89½ acres to Benjamin Wilkes for $100. (This was Wilkes’ first purchase of land at the Peaks.)
16 Oct 1843: Book 30, 516. Edward and Elizabeth Hunter of St. Charles County, MO deeded Benjamin Wilkes . . . 48½ acres . . . allotted to John Wood in the division of Jeremiah Wood estate and . . . 49½ acres . . . allotted to Nancy Turner, wife of Malancthon Turner . . . for $620.
4 Mar 1850: Book 38, 404. Richard Davis deeded Benjamin Wilkes, 345 acres for $500.
20 Aug 1851: Book 38, 404. John and Caroline Thompson deeded Benjamin Wilkes, 1500 acres that included Sharp Top and 1200 acres that included Flat Top, all for $2700.
29 Dec 1851: Book 35, 447. James and Juda Wilson deeded Benjamin Wilkes, 100 acres for $600. This land borderd land held by Wilkes, Jopling and Whiteley.
10 Nov 1852: Book 36, 50. Edwin and Sarah Moore deeded Benjamin Wilkes, 240¼ acres for $5; 29¾ acres on Forest Road and joint interest in 5 acres, 16 perches (?) containing Woodson Store.
26 Feb 1853: Book 36, 94. Edwin and Sarah Moore deeded Benjamin Wilkes, a tract of 550 acres and a 5-acre tract on the Virginia & Tennessee Railroad, for $3000, bounded by Spotswood Brown, John Leftwich, John Goode and Noell.
The residence on the above property is Lochwood Hall.
“The old brick residence, mellowed with age and marked with individuality, can be seen from
the highway for miles. It commands a magnificent view of the Blue Ridge Mountains and their picturesque foothills. The main three-story dwelling was built before the Revolutionary War, the architectural features, high ceilings, paneled walls, carved mantels, and deep recessed windows being similar to many of the James River houses built in that period. The builder’s idea of permanence is indicated by the twenty-inch brick walls, which are still in excellent condition. Soon after 1852 additional rooms were built by Benjamin Wilkes.
Lochwood Hall
Picture from Vincent M. Wilkes
“According to tradition a row of old trees which stand as sentinels along the carriage drive were named for the Confederate Generals in whose time they were planted. It was during Hunter’s raid through Bedford County that his men took possession of this place, confiscating contents of the smokehouse and slaughtering the cattle for the use of their troops.
“On the south side of the house lies the formal English box-wood garden, where narcissi and golden daffodils border a carpet of blue periwinkle. The north side of the lawn sweeps
down to the old slave quarters, near which are grouped the smoke house, a stone icehouse and the interesting dairy room with its many stone shelves.”
Originally built by William Leftwich, in the 1790’s, this was Benjamin Wilks’ home for many years. He named it Carlotta after the wife of Maximilian, Austrian emperor of Mexico. The name was later changed to Lochwood Hall. It is now a historical monument in Bedford County.
17 May 1853: Book 36, 148. Cornelius and Nancy Noell deeded Benjamin Wilkes, 302 acres on the north side of Big Otter River below the Forest Road for $1850.
17 Jul 1853: Book 36, 325. Samuel Garland to Benjamin Wilkes a deed of release by the surviving trustee of Cornelius Noell, Sr.
27 Feb 1854: Book 36, 423. Anderson and Slaughter, commissioners in Anderson vs Steptoe deeded Benjamin Wilkes, 620 acres on Faggs Branch for $6 per acre.
15 April 1854: Book 37, 254. Spotswood and Elizabeth Brown deeded Benjamin Wilkes, 29 acres, 2 roods and 31 poles on the Forest Road from Lynchburg to Liberty for $550.
24 Oct 1856: Book 39, 42. Erasmus and Catherine Noell deeded Benjamin Wilkes, 46 acres, 1 rood and 24 poles of land adjacent to Wilkes.
11 Dec 1856: Book 45, 90. Benjamin and Matilda Wilkes deeded Erasmus T Noell, some 4 acres, 2 roods and 15 poles, this land being cut off the Anderson Tract for $100.
30 Dec 1857: Book 40, 263. Benjamin and Matilda Wilkes deeded John Cofer, 301 acres on Boyd’s road, adjoining land of Wilson, Hunter, Harris and Padget, for $2000. (This is land that Wilkes had previously bought from Richard Davis.)
4 Dec 1858: Book 40, 209. William W Jopling, commissioner for the Jopling family, deeded Benjamin Wilkes, 357 acres, 3 roods and 14 poles of land for $1073.51.
3 Jan 1859: Book 40, 262. Benjamin and Matilda Wilkes deeded Thomas B Jopling, 42½ acres of land (previously bought from Richard Davis by Wilkes) on Moor’s road, adjoining land of Joplin and Hunter for $800.
21 Jul 1860: Book 42, 538. Cornelius Noell, commissioner for the estate of Cornelius Noell, Sr., deeded Benjamin Wilkes, 1854.188 acres on the east side of Big Otter River for $1. Land on Forest road and adjoining land of Wilkes and Erasmus Noell.
5 Mar 1862: Book 43, 12. Benjamin and Matilda Wilkes deeded Thomas B Jopling, some 42 acres as described in a deed in Book 40, Page 262, for $840 “not now being recollected, paid in part and the balance secured to be paid.”
15 Feb 1867: Book 43, 298. Robert N Kelso, commissioner in the cause of John Tinsley and wife vs Allison Jeter and others, deeded Benjamin Wilkes, 403½ acres adjoining land of William A Hardy, Lawson S Hurt, E M Carnefix and others. This is land that was sold to Aneas Hunter or his assignee, Benjamin Wilkes, for $13.20/acre ($5326.20).
22 Jan 1869: Book 44, 198. Benjamin Wilkes deeded Edmund Arrington, 220 acres on the “south slope of Flat Top Peak of Otter,” for $500 paid to Nicholas Horsley.
12 Aug 1869: Book 44, 343. Nancy Woodford deeded Benjamin Wilkes, 238 acres “it being the land on which Nancy Woodford now lives” for $500.
8 Aug 1872: Book 46, 315. Benjamin and Matilda Wilkes deeded Charles F Plant, 403½ acres, about five miles north of Liberty, for $5000. This land, on which John Jeter resided at the time of his death, was conveyed to Benjamin Wilkes by Robert N Kelso, commissioner, on 15 Feb 1867.
28 Jul 1873: Book 47, 100. Anne E Bolling of Wythe County deeded Benjamin Wilkes, 250 acres for $3000.
22 Aug 1876: Book 49, 180. Charles A Bower, commissioner in the cause of Jesse T Hopkins vs John Goode, deeded Benjamin Wilkes, 150 acres, 2 roods of land near Goodes Crossing on both sides of the Atlantic, Mississippi & Ohio Road, for $14.25 per acre. ($2137.50) This was land that had belonged to John Goode.
20 Jan 1879: Book 51, 319–324. These pages include four deeds executed by Benjamin Wilkes in which he makes gifts of land to each of his four living sons “in consideration of his natural love and affection for his son(s) and to (their) children.”
To Corbin Wilkes 447 acres and 2 roods of land near Goode’s Crossing and on the Big Otter River. Also a half interest in Wilkes Mill and an option to buy the remaining half for $1500.
To Leyburn Wilkes 249 acres and 33 poles being the same land conveyed to Benjamin from Ann Bolling on 28 July 1873.
To Benjamin Wilkes, Jr., 307 acres and 32 poles on Forest road.
To Henry C Wilkes 620 acres acquired from Anderson & Slaughter on 27 Feb 1854. And about one acre of the Moore tract lying near the main entrance to the above tract.
Each deed contained restrictions: “. . . if the said land or any part thereof shall hereafter be sold or exchanged it shall not be . . . for anything but other real estate and the proceeds of any sale shall be reinvested in real estate and . . . the real estate acquired by such exchange or reinvestment must be held subject to all of the trusts, limitations and restrictions herein before expressed but no such sale or exchange of said property or any part thereof, shall be made during the life time of . . . Benjamin Wilkes, except with his written consent nor after his death excepting under the direction and control of some court of the County of Bedford having jurisdiction of trust estates.”
5 Jan 1880: Book 52, 291. Benjamin Wilkes deeded John C and Cary A Mooormaw, 413¼ acres on the north side of Forest road for $12,397.50.
8 Mar 1880: Book 52, 503. Benjamin Wilkes deeded John H and James H Hopkins as the highest bidders, 356½ acres a.k.a. Harken Hill Tract for $6.20/acre. ($2210.30)
28 Jun 1880: Book 52, 547. Benjamin Wilkes deeded John T Johnson at auction Tract #3 @ 52 acres and Tract #9 @ 129 acres. (No price given)
26 Jan 1883: Book 56, 93. Benjamin and Mary Bell Wilkes, his wife, deeded Henry A Woodford 221 acres on both sides of Blackwater road adjoining Henry Woodford for $669.96½.
16 Feb 1883: Book 55, 528. Commissioners for Benjamin Wilkes deeded John Nix, 160 ¾ acres at the foot of the Peaks of Otter on both sides of the Buchanan to Liberty Turnpike where Nicholas Horsley recently resided a.k.a Home Tract. (no price given)
24 Feb 1883: Book 56, 486. Benjamin Wilkes deeded James L Lacks as highest bidder, some 109 acres for $0.55/acre. ($59.95 for Lot #6 in the division of land on the Peaks)
The following is an excerpt from Bedford County, Virginia, 1840-1860, a book found in the Virginia Room at the Roanoke City Main Library by Vincent Wilkes.
“Wilkes epitomizes the entrepreneurial spirit of pioneer America and obviously had faith in the growth potential of the Peaks area. As early as 1849, Wilkes was granted a license to keep a House of private entertainment, which he ran with the help of one of his sons, Leyburn Wilkes.
Wilkes had discovered the boom of the tourist trade, and he and his son moved quickly to capitalize on it. In 1853, Wilkes petitioned the General Assembly for per-mission to construct toll roads up to Flat Top and Sharp Top to collect monies from the increasingly numerous sightseers.
Peaks of Otter – Picture from Vincent M. Wilkes
By 1855, Leyburn Wilkes had acquired a license for ‘wine and ardent spirits to be drunk and sold’
at the ordinary.
Then in 1857, Leyburn Wilkes began to build the first hotel in the area, called the Otter Peaks Hotel, with accommodations for 50 people. A local resident of the area at the time, John W. Early, described the complex as consisting of ‘Hotel, cabin with four rooms—eight rooms in the Hotel—store house with two rooms—another cabin of two rooms—kitchen—smokehouse—Springhouse—an overseer’s house—wagoner’s house—corn house and large stable—and a rock house on top of the Peaks [Sharp Top] with tin roof.’
A visitor to the hotel, Henry Morgan, described his experience this way: In less than half a mile from the spring we come to the celebrated ‘Otter Peak’s House’ kept by Mr. Leyburn Wilkes. Better accommodations, more prompt and ready service, and amid more delightful scenery could not be desired. Mr. Wilkes is a young man, kind and affable, whose chief delight is to make the visitors cheerful and happy. He owns both of these mountains, which in time must prove a source
of incalculable wealth. His buildings multiply with the increase of travel, and no labor or expense will be spared to make this the most attractive watering place in America. The air is cool and
salubrious, and in the hottest season an exhilarating breeze sweeps through the mountain pass, while the low lands of the State are parched, sultry and infected.”
In Bedford County Order Book 34, page 463, is the following record:
We the undersigned cald. [sic] On by Benj. Wilkes of Bedford County Va. To value the damage dun (sic) him by Bir Gel Crooks Armey [sic] on 17th June 1864 we have valued each article separate and class them under the following heads,
Live stock valued at $20,400 Damage done Plantation &c 11,840
Negroes “ “ 50,000 Damage done Mill 3,000
Provision 62,160 $147,400
Jas. W. Harris, Thos. M. Wilkinson, Thos. B. Jopling
Benjamin Wilkes’ Last Will and Testament of 01 Jan 1880 was recorded in Bedford Court 24 Dec 1886:
I give to Walker Bowman, son of my youngest daughter, the balance of the Moore track of land bound by the lines of the Leobb track lying on both sides of the railroad which includes a part of the Leobb track on both sides of the railroad, then by the lot of T.E. Lowery. The old road to the Forest road then with the Forest road to my son Corbin’s line, as before mentioned passing through the woods.
I give to my son Leyburn the last two bonds due on the Jeter track of land to be held by him for his children.
I give to my two grandsons, Benjamin and Cabbell Horsely, the balance of my Woodford track of land after cutting off thirty acres sold Henry Woodford. I also give them the track bought by my grandson Cabbell at the sale of the Peak property.
I give my granddaughter Mattie Wilkes, daughter of Leyburn, and Miss Sarah McGregory [Sarah may be Sarah Matilda Gregory, daughter of Deborah West Duffel Gregory and niece of Matilda Duffel Wilks] five hundred dollars each for their kindness to me.
I also give Walker Bowman all the stock in the land with the household and the kitchen furniture and also the production on the land with crops grown and crops growing with any rents that may be due from tenants on said land.
The balance of my estate both personal and rail [sic] I give to my granddaughters to be managed and controlled for their benefit by my exactor Walker Bowman, who I appoint to act without security as long as he remains single. If he should marry, he then shall give security.
Walker declined to “take upon himself the burden of execution” of the will. Two members of the court posted $10,000 bond and acted as executors. The will was apparently contested and the court action was moved to corporation court in Roanoke.
Children of Benjamin Wilkes, Sr., and Matilda Duffell are:
40. i. Leyburn5 WILKES, b. 12 Jun 1831, Lynchburg, VA; d. 07 Apr 1891.
41. ii. Elizabeth WILKES, b. ca. 1835; d. 1864.
42. iii. Henry C. WILKES, b. Oct 1836.
43. iv. Corbin WILKES, b. 05 Sep 1837, Campbell County, VA, and d. 26 Dec 1881.
v. James Duffel WILKES, b. aft. 15 Jul 1839, Lynchburg, VA; d. 15 Jul 1862, Bedford County, TX. Vincent Miller Wilkes shared with me the following entry in the Horsely Family Bible, written by Elizabeth Wilkes Horsely.
“James Duffel Wilkes, son of Matilda Duffel and Benjamin Wilkes, was born after 15 July 1839 in Lynchburg, VA. He died 15 July 1862 of Erysipelas in Bedford County, VA. Died . . . in the 22nd year of his age. Ah, dear Jimmie it was hard to give thee up, it wrings our poor disconsolate hearts to think that thy noble form, once the pride and joy of us all, should now be lying in the cold and silent grave. Oh that thy dear soul hath taken its flight to a far better and happier world, the only consolation that we have dear Brother in this sad bereavement, in the hope that we may be prepared to meet thee in that upper and better kingdom where parting is no more. Fare thee well Dear Jimmie, fare thee well.”
44. vi. Catherine “Kitty” Matilda WILKS, b. 1842.
45. vii. Benjamin WILKES, Jr., b. 13 or 18 May 1844 in Campbell County, VA; d. in 1920.
Do any of you have the documented DOB for Benjamin Wilkes, Jr.?
Peaks of Otter, Life and Times
Benjamin Wilkes owned the Peaks of Otter during the civil war era. He commercialized the popular spot near Bedford on what is now the Blue Ridge Parkway. He built the first hotel on a site close to the present Peaks of Otter Lodge. There is a national park service marker where the original hotel stood.
His accomplishments were all but forgotten when Peter Viemeister, a transplant to Bedford from NYC, began researching the history of the famous mountains. He tells in Peaks of Otter, Life and Times, the history of the mountain community and the people involved in a fascinating story that spans over a hundred years. The book contains more than 200 maps and illustrations, a 17-page index, color jacket, and 278 cloth hardbound pages. ISBN 0-9608598-9-6 $24.50
His accomplishments were all but forgotten when Peter Viemeister, a transplant to Bedford from NYC, began researching the history of the famous mountains. He tells in Peaks of Otter, Life and Times, the history of the mountain community and the people involved in a fascinating story that spans over a hundred years. The book contains more than 200 maps and illustrations, a 17-page index, color jacket, and 278 cloth hardbound pages. ISBN 0-9608598-9-6 $24.50
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