Ann Guthrie 1745VA – ???? and Samuel Bristow
of Christ Church Parish, Middlesex County, Virginia

ANN GUTHRIE
Surname Variants in Records: Guthrie, Guthery, Guttery
Parents: William Guthrie b. 1682-98 – d. 1781-82 and Frances Wilbourn
Birth: 4 August 1745
Birth Location: Christ Church, Middlesex County, Virginia
Baptism: 1 September 1745 in Christ Church Parish, Middlesex County, Virginia
Marriage: 7 January 1765 in Middlesex County, Virginia
Bristow Children: Nicholas, Lucy, Benjamin, John (II), James, Hannah, Willis
Death: Unknown, presumably after 1786
Death Location: Unknown, presumably in Virginia, USA
Burial Location: Unknown, presumably in Virginia, USA

SAMUEL BRISTER / BRISTOW
Surname Variants in Records: Bristow, Brister, Bristoe, Bristol
Parents: Nicholas Bristow (1764VA – 1733VA) and Mary Gardner (1680VA – 17??VA)
Birth: 27 March 1730
Birth Location: Christ Church Parish, Middlesex County, Virginia
Baptism: 3 April 1730 in Christ Church Parish, Middlesex County, Virginia
Occupation: Unknown
Marriage (1st): Mary (MNU) bef. 1752
Children by 1st Marriage: John (I), Samuel, Mary (I), Robert, Ruth, William, Mary (II)
Death: Abt. 1794
Death Location: Southampton County, Virginia, USA
Burial Location: Unknown, presumably in Southampton County, Virginia, USA

NOTES:
There is apparently more than one Bristow family tracing their lineage back to the Samuel Bristow who was born 1730 in Middlesex County, Virginia to Nicholas and Mary (Gardner) Bristow. Online trees provide diverse family structures with one or two wives, and the identity of those wives being different based on the theory of the day. There are also surname variances in original documents, which lends to the confusion: Bristow, Brister, Bristoe, causing some to question whether the Samuel listed therein is the same man or a second one.

The marriage records of Middlesex County, Virginia do not reveal the full name of Samuel Bristow‘s first wife nor exactly when or where they married. Children born in the county are attributed to Samuel Bristow by a wife named Mary. Her maiden name is not found in any of the records. There is a records gap between 1760 and 1765 when Samuel Bristow disappears from Middlesex. Then, in 1765, the marriage of Samuel Bristow and Ann Guthery, daughter of William Guthery and Frances Wilbourn, was recorded. The groom is listed as being of Surry County, another Virginia county found further south along the James River. There are no original records found in Surry County (so far) indicating that a man of the name Samuel Bristow (or any variant surname) resided there at that time. There are records found in neighboring Isle of Wight and Southampton Counties for Samuel Brister placing him within the same region.

It is certainly within the realm of possibility that Samuel‘s fist wife died as a result of childbirth or illness while they were living in Surry County, Virginia. Having several young children, it seems likely that he would remarry quickly, and the best place to do that would potentially be back home in Middlesex County.

Ann Guthrie, a younger daughter of William Guthrie and his second wife Frances Wilbourn, was born 4 August and baptized 1 September 1745 in Christ Church Parish, Middlesex County, Virginia. She was 19 years old at the time of her marriage on 7 January 1756 to Samuel Bristow.

Since Samuel Bristow was noted to be ‘of Surry County’ at the time of his marriage, it should be no great surprise that that there is no further record of the couple in Middlesex County. After acquiring his new wife, they simply returned to his home near the James River.

Ancestry user amaldo6922, having gathered a lot of family research, including digital resources for Southhampton County, VA at The Branley Association of America site, has some alternate theories (see gallery). The question is whether Samuel Brister of Southampton County, VA is also Samuel Bristow of Middlesex County, VA. The Southampton man’s wife was indeed named Ann, but there is no use of her maiden name in those records. It is noted in amaldo6922’s brief on the family that the name ‘Howard’ is used as a middle name, and therefore postulates that Samuel Brister of Southampton may be a different man than Samuel Bristow of Middlesex, and that his marriage to an Anne Howard is unrecorded. This also suggests that all of the children belong to one mother.

The “Howard Theory” has been copied into numerous trees including Geneanet Community trees that have been recently added to Ancestry.com, once again making an unproven theory seem legitimate without definitive evidence. The use of Howard as a middle name is not widespread amongst the family members, but is found twice. Samuel Brister Jr‘s daughter Polly Howard Brister‘s middle name was documented in Court Records. The son of Benjamin Brister, among the youngest five children in the family, had a son, Thomas J Brister, who also used the middle name Howard for one of his own children. One counterpoint to the theory is the use of ‘Wilbourn’ as a son’s given name by Lucy (Brister) Stephenson since Wilbourn was the maiden name of Ann Guthrie‘s mother.

No consideration seems to have been given that Samuel Bristow of Middlesex had a first wife, Mary, whose maiden name is currently unknown. Could it be Howard? That surname is also found in Middlesex.

The Samuel Brister who wrote his will on 2 Oct 1794 in Southampton County, Virginia identified his wife as Ann Brister, along with his last 5 children: John, Benjamin, James, Hannah & Willis Brister. He also indicates in the will that there are other children not named or numbered therein for whom he has already provided. These are either specifically identified or the relationship inferred by other Southampton County records.

The only 2 records found in the Christ Church Parish Register for Samuel Bristow:
CCPR, p.129 – Samuel, son of Nicholas & Mary Bristow born March ye 27 baptized April ye 3 1730.
CCPR, p.288 – (Jo)hn, son of Samuel & Mary Bristow born June 7th (1752)

Records in Middlesex County, Virginia, Wills, Inventories & Accounts, 1673-1812 (Hopkins, 1989)
p.20 – Mary Bristow, daughter of Samuel Bristow & Mary Bristow, died 11 Jan 1760.
p.22 – Samuel Bristow, son of Samuel Bristow & Mary Bristow, born 17 April 1756.
p.25 – Mary Bristow, daughter of Samuel Bristow & Mary Bristow, born 25 Nov 1758.
p.83 – Sale of Estate of John Blake, decd., to: (includes) William Bristow, Samuel Bristow, Edward Bristow. 2 Sep 1755.

Ann‘s father, William Guthrie, wrote a will on 2 April 1781 prior to his death naming his wife Frances and son Samuel Guthrie, but making his bequests only to his “surviving children” rather than identifying them by name and location, so there are no additional clues.

Woolley’s 1969 book ‘John Bristow of Middlesex County, and his Descendants through Ten Generations’ p.27, indicated that Samuel is the son of Nicholas Bristow and grandson of John Bristow, born on the 27th of March 1730. “He lived in Isle of Wight County, Virginia, and died in Southampton County, Virginia, between the 2d October 1794 and the 1st June 1795, the dates respectively of his Will and its probate. He married twice: first to Mary….., date unknown, and second to Ann Guthery, the 1st June 1765. Eight children survived him, but we do now know which of the wives was the other of these children:
1. ***hn (John?), born the 7th June 1752
2. Samuel–born the 16th April 1756
3. Mary–born the 25th November 1758.
4. Benjamin–born in 1760, probably January.
5. Robert–born the 25th December 1760.
6. James–unable trace farther.
7. Hannah–unable trace farther.
8. Nicholas–unable trace farther.”

Family records indicate they resided in Nottaway Parish at some point. This parish served both Isle of Wight and Southampton Counties, VA, which may be the reason Woolley selected Isle of Wight as Samuel Bristow‘s home. No corresponding data has been linked to Surry County, VA at this point for comparison, indicating that it may have been a temporary residence in the region of the James River.

The last mention of Samuel and Mary Bristow is the death of their daughter Mary on 11 January 1760. The family then disappears from the records of Middlesex County. Not found in the Vestry Book or Deeds. Wooley lists son Robert‘s birth in Gloucester County, VA, perhaps a temporary home while heading south along Chesapeake Bay toward the James River.

If Mary Bristow, wife of Samuel Bristow (b.1730), died between 1760-1765, he presumably sought out a wife from his home community in Middlesex County. After marrying Ann Guthrie on 7 January 1765, they would potentially have returned to his home, then in Surry County. By this point he has several children under the age of 10, with more children by his second wife added in over the next 15-20 years.

SOUTHAMPTON COUNTY, VIRGINIA RECORDS:
Note that the county clerks almost exclusively use the spelling variant Brister, although others are found
Court Order Book 1778-1784
p.33 – Ordered that Samuel Brister and others appraise estate of David Dairises, decd.
p.285 – A suit recorded against Samuel Bristow Jr by plaintiff Edwin Hines.
Oct 1778 – Southampton County Court Order Book 1778-1784 – p.33 – Samuel Brister and others to appraise the slaves and estate of David Dairises, dec’d.

Court Order Book 1784-1788
p.55 – Samuel Bristol – juryman
p.122 – Samuel Brister – juryman
p.123 – Samuel Brister – juryman
p.140 – Samuel Brister – juryman
p.151 – Samuel Brister – juryman
p.227 – Edwin Hines, plaintiff, against Samuel Brister, defendant. Jury finds false claims in favor of Bristow.
p.228 – Samuel Bristow ordered to pay his witnesses for their court attendance for a period of 25 days.
p.232 – Samuel Bristow ordered to pay another witness for 25 days of court attendance. 625 pounds tobacco.
p.318 – Samuel Bristow – juryman
p.319 – Samuel Bristow – juryman
p.400 – Will of Thomas Stephenson proved by oath of Samuel Bristow and others.

There does not appear to be a Court Order Book covering the years 1789-1801.

Court Minute Book  1786-1790
p.70 – Monday, 13 Aug 1787 – Saml. Brister – juryman
p.71 – Monday, 13 Aug 1787 – Saml. Brister – juryman
p.248 – Samuel Brister – juryman
p.249 – Samuel Brister – juryman

Court Minute Book  1790-1793 – No Samuel Brister entries

Court Minute Book 1793-1799
p.75 – Sam. Brister is allo. 3 days attendance as a witness for Jenny Summerell v. Stephenson.
p.162 – Last will & testament of Samuel Brister, dec’d presented in court by exr. prov. by wit. exr. qualified, gave bond. Ordered that James Summerell, Shadrack Boykind, Thos. Summerell & Thos. Stephenson or any 3 appraise said estate.
p.177 – 8 Oct 1795 – Inventory & appraisement of Samuel Bristow’s estate returned and ordered recorded.

Will Book 4, 1783-1797
p263 – Witness to the Last Will and Testament of Samuel Stephenson

The Last Will and Testament of Samuel Brister of the County of Southampton Virginia is recorded in Will Will Book 4, with Inventories and Accounts 1783-1797, p.688. AND FHL Film #007645794, img. 368.
Brister, Samuel – will Imprimis
In the Name of God Amen. I Samuel Brister of the county of Southampton being sick and weak in body but of perfect mind and memory do make and ordain this my last will and testament in manner and form following:
I lend the use of my whole & sole estate unto my loving wife Ann Brister during her natural life let it be of what nature or kind so ever but at her my said wife’s death if there then should any estate left I do hereby give such Estate to be divided amongst five which is my latter children namely John, Benjamin, James, Hannah & Willis Brister. Those of my sons and daughters that their names are not herein mentioned, I have provided formerly and it is not my will such shall in hand profit of my Estate further. I do also constituteth and appoint my loving wife Ann Brister my whole and sole executrix of this my last will and testament in which thereunto set my hand and seal this 2nd day of October 1794.
Signed, Sealed, Published, Pronounced his
and declared in presence of Samuel X Brister
James Summerrell mark
Thomas Travis
Arthur Doles

At a Court held for the county of Southampton the 11 day of June 1795 this will was presented in court by Ann Brister the Executrix therein named proved by the oaths of James Summerell, , Thomas Travis, & Arthur Doles the witnesses thereto and ordered to be recorded and on the motion of the said Executrix who made oath according to law certificate is granted her for obtaining a probat thereof in due form giving security whereupon.

p.706 – The Inventory & Appraisment of the Estate of Samuel Brister decd appraised by James Summerrell, Tho. Summerrell & Thos. Stephenson being first sworn. Includes: 1 bay horse, 1 sorrel mare, 3 feather beds & furniture, 1 wool wheel, 5 chairs, 1 pine table, 1 chest, 3 head of cattle, 17 hogs, 6 sheep, 1 linen wheel, 1 walnut table, old chest of drawers, , 1 flat irons, parcel of __, parcel of pots, pewter, 1 spice mortar & pestle, stove & tongs, kitchen __, 1 saddle & bridle, 16 geese, plantation utensils, 2 wheels & carts, 1 gun.

CHILDREN of SAMUEL BRISTOW, MARY (MNU), and ANN GUTHRIE
Outside theories suggest these individuals may be listed as family due to the misidentification of records of multiple men of the name Samuel Bristow. Further study is required. Autosomal DNA Testing of descendants of the children believed to belong to Ann Guthrie, born after 1765, should be examined for Guthrie matches. However, due to the genetic distance of living descendants, confirmatory matches to Guthrie Family Group 1 ancestors may be difficult to triangulate.

JOHN BRISTOW
Born 7 June 1752 VA – 17?? VA

Samuel Bristow and his first wife Mary’s eldest known son was born 7 June 1752 in Middlesex County, VA. Potentially died young as there is another son by the same name born to the 2nd wife. There is also no data for John Brister / Bristow in the earlier Southampton County, VA court records, suggesting that he had not reached his majority at the time of his death.

SAMUEL BRISTOW
Born 16 April 1756 VA – Died 1794 VA

Samuel Bristow was born on 16 April 1756 in Middlesex County, VA to Samuel Bristow and his first wife, Mary (MNU). Samuel Bristow Jr 1st married Nancy Westbrooke on 9 Aug 1781 and 2nd Mary Clarke on 22 Sep 1788 in Southampton County, VA. He had two daughters with his first wife, Polly and Frances, who are named in his 1794 will and in a legal dispute over the estate of their grandmother, Priscilla Westbrooke. (Court Minute Book 1804-1806, p.33).

Court Order Book 1778-1784
p.285 – A suit recorded against Samuel Bristow Jr by plaintiff Edwin Hines. Attorney representing defendant.
Court Minute Book 1793-1799
p.402 – 15 Oct 1798 – Last will & testament of Same. Brister proved by wit. & ordered recorded
p.425 – Frances Bristow, orphan of Saml. Bristow chose Wm Bailey for her guardian who gave __ __.
Court Minute Book 1799-1803
p.42 – On the motion of Francis Clements for adm. on the estate of Sam. Brister the same his granted him on giving bond.
Guardianship Book 1798-1836
Court Order Book 1803-1805
p.394 – Polly and Frances Bristow, orphans of Samuel Bristow and his wife Nancy formerly Nancy Westbrook.
p.437 – In Chancery: Dispute over the estate of Priscilla Westbrook – lists Frances Brister, daughter of Samuel Brister and Nancy his wife, also Polly Vaughan, infant child of said who was daughter of said Saml. Brister and Nancy Brister.
Court Order Book 1805-1807
p.32
In Chancery: (Others) and Frances Brister daughter of Samuel Brister and Mary his wife and Polly Fulgham infant children of said who was daughter of said Saml. and Mary Brister…continued dispute over estate of Priscilla Westbrook

The Last Will and Testament – Southampton VA Will Book 5 – Samuel Brister – Page 86 and Page 87.
Bristow Children: 2
1.) Polly Howard Bristow m. 9 Nov 1797 in Southampton, VA to James Fulgham +children
2.) Frances ‘Frankey’ Bristow m. 2 Dec 1806 in Southampton, VA to Edmund Colton

MARY BRISTOW
Born 25 Nov 1758 VA – Died 11 Jan 1760 VA

Mary Bristow was born in Middlesex County, VA, the daughter of Samuel Bristow and his first wife, Mary (MNU). Her death is the last notation in the Middlesex County records for both parents.

ROBERT BRISTOW
Born 25 Dec 1760 VA – Died ????

Another child credited to Samuel Bristow and his first wife, Mary (MNU), Robert Bristow was born on Christmas Day, 25 December 1760 in Kingston Parish, Gloucester or Mathews County, Virginia. (Kingston Parish Register, p.32, Matheny & Yates, 2009). Presumably the family made a stop in Kingston Parish for an unknown period of time.

No marriage records in Southampton, VA, but Court Order Book 1778-1784, p.465 names Robert Bristow and his wife Keziah as administrators of Britain Magnum for debt. The case was dismissed by the plaintiff, Jacob Jones.

Court Order Book 1816-1819
p.108 – Ordered that the Sheriff of this county unto whose hands the estate of Henry Smith decd has been committed, pay to Thomas Malone, adm. Robert Bristow, seven dollars six and a quarter cents the amount of __ also 62 cents costs of motion to Henry Evans the sum of two dollars amount of his account also 62 cents costs of motion and recorded __ sheriff to the court.

RUTH BRISTOW
Born est. 1761 VA – Died ????

Ruth would have been a daughter of Samuel Bristow and his first wife, Mary (MNU).

Ruth Bristow (Brister) and Stephen Summerell, both of Nottaway Parish, married on 11 June 1778. Father of Ruth: Sam. Brister. Witnesses: Gevin Summerill; Sam. Kello.

Deed Book 5 1773-1775: Summerell, Stephen 470
Deed Book 6 1775-1787: Summerell, Stephen 64, 300, 301, 406, 407, 408, 492

WILLIAM BRISTOW
Born est. 1762 VA – Died 1815 VA

William Bristow married Damaris Little on 12 Feb 1781 in Southampton County, Virginia.
William Bristow married Polly Babb on 2 Jan 1786 in Southampton County, Virginia.

• Martha Brister m. Solomon Boykin 29 Apr 1819 – Parent: Polley Brister.

Court Order Book 1802-1803
p. 366 – Regarding William Bristow’s purchase of the dower property of Martha Johnson, widow of Rawlez Johnson, decd.

Court Minute Book 1813-1816
p.318 – Adm on Wm Brister’s estate granted to Polly Brister who gave bond & security. Ordered that James Clayton, Benjamin Brister, Benjamin Wilson & Jesse Law or any 3 appraise said estate.

Court Order Book 1814-1816
p. 273 – On the motion of Polly Bristow who made oath and together with Samuel Bairden and Willis Bairden her securities entered until and acknowledged a bond in the penalty of one thousand dollars conditioned as the law directs certificate is granted herobtaining letters of administration on the Estate of William Brister deceased in due form. // Ordered that James Clayton, Benjamin Brister, Benjamin Wilson and Jesse Sow or any 3 of them being first sworn before a Justice of the peace appraise in current money the slaves if any and personal Estate of William Brister deceased and return the appraisement to the court.

MARY BRISTOW
Born est. 1764 VA – ????

Mary Bristow married William Clark (Clarke) on 14 Nov 1783 in Surry County and/or Southampton County, Virginia. Security and Witnesses: William Atkinson and Benjamin Brock. The transcriptions list 1785.

NICHOLAS BRISTOW
Born 1766-80 VA – Died 1805 VA

Nicholas Brister was married to Penelope (MNU). No marriage records in Southampton, VA. His will, written in 1805, identifies his mother as Ann Brister. He mentions siblings John, Willis, and Tanner in the will. He had one son named Samuel Brister. Joel Council was assigned as his guardian. His widow, Penelope Brister married Joel Council on 15 Feb 1808 in Southampton County, VA. Security and Witnesses: John Lowe. They had seven children together. Nicholas and Penelope’s son Samuel Brister died in 1829. His will is recorded in Will Book 10, 1825-1832, p.227. He named his mother Penelope, half-siblings Catherine Council and William Council, and assigned his step-father, Joel Council, as his executor. He had no wife or children. Penelope died in 1830.

Court Minute Book 1799-1803
p.7 – Nicholas Brister allotted 75 center per day for guarding Ned 39 days
p.39 – Nicholas Brister – juryman
p.40 – Nicholas Brister – juryman
p.88 – Nicholas Brister alloted 167 days for guarding Butler Specis(?) negroes at 61 _ per day condemned for murder in Oct last.
p.97 – Nicholas Brister – juryman
p.100 – Nicholas Brister – juryman
p.101 – Nicholas Brister – juryman
p.102 – Nicholas Brister – juryman
p.123 – 17 Sep 1800 – Nich. Brister, Parks Vick, Wm Simmons & Lazarus Whitehead their account as guards to convey Porter & Demmony to Suffolk, 36 miles @ 2 ch per mile 2.88 each.
p.144 – Nicholas Bristow qualified as deputy sheriff under J. Urquhart Sheriff.
p.207 – List of insibents and non inhabitants for the year 1799 examined by the court approved of sworn to by Nichol. Bristow deputy for John Urquhard and __ to be certified.
p.212 – Nicholas Bristow – among those allotted pay for guarding dending negroes to the county jail for conspiring to murder the white people
p.269 – 22 June 1802 – Nicholas Brister – juryman
p.270 – Nicholas Brister – juryman
p.271 – Nicholas Brister appointed and qualified as a constable
p.274 – Nicholas Brister – juryman
p.275 – Nicholas Brister – juryman
p.337 – Nicholas Brister – juryman

Court Order Book 1802-1803
p. 24 – Nicholas Brister – juryman
p.26 – Nicholas Brister – juryman
p.30 – Nicholas Brister appeared and qualified as constable according to Law.
p.43 – Nicholas Brister – juryman
p.44 – Nicholas Brister – juryman
p.47 – Nicholas Brister – juryman
p.186 – Nicholas Brister – juryman
p.187 – Nicholas Brister – juryman
p.191 – Nicholas Brister – juryman
p.194 – Nicholas Brister – juryman
p.195 – Nicholas Brister – juryman
p.269 – Nicholas Brister and others serving as constables of Nottaway Parish ordered to next court to give bond according to law
p.281 – Nicholas Brister and others allowed 1 dollar and 6 cents as witness for 2 days attendance at court
p.283 – Nicholas Brister – juryman
p.303 – Nicholas Brister and others appointed as constables gave bond according to law.
p.355 – Nicholas Brister witness for the Commonwealth on behalf of Jacob Barnes agst. Benj Adams
p.364 – Nicholas Brister and Edward W Tyler securities for Lucy Stephenson as admx of est. of William Stephenson.
p.423 – Nicholas Brister – juryman
p.429 – Nicholas Brister – juryman
p.445 – Nicholas Brister – juryman
p.446 – Nicholas Brister – juryman
p.447 – Nicholas Brister – juryman

Court Order Book 1803-1805
p.185 – Nicholas Brister – juryman
p.186 – Nicholas Brister – juryman
p.190 – On the motion of Thomas Vaughan wittness for Nicholas Brister against William Start it is ordered that the said Nicholas pay him fifty three cents for one days attendance on this court according to law.
p.191 – On the motion of Nicholas Brister witness for William Blow against William Washington it is ordered that the said William Blow pay him fifty three cents for one days attendance on this court according to law
p.197 – Nicholas Brister – juryman
p.199 – Nicholas Brister – juryman
p.201 – Nicholas Brister – juryman
p.202 – Nicholas Brister, plaintiff, against William Hart, defendant, regarding Slander.
p.203 – Nicholas Brister, plaintiff, against William Hart, defendant, regarding Slander.
p.211 – Court Case by Nicolas Brister plaintiff against William Hart defendant. Plaintiff ack satisfaction for amount of judgment of $21 and $8 to each of the 3 attorneys hired by the plaintiff and all other costs.
p. 254 – Nicholas Brister paid 7.97 for services as a Constable
p.266 – On the motion of Nicholas Brister witness for Samuel Roane against Samuel C__ it is ordered that the said Roane pay him fifty three census for one day’s attendance in court according to law.
p.284 – On the motion of Nicholas Brister witness for Richard St Focke against William Blow admr Samuel Kello it is ordered that the said Richd. pay him fifty three cents for one days attendance on this court according to law.
p.339 – Nicholas Brister – juryman
p.343 – Ordered that Richard H Cooke pay to Nicholas Brister fifty three cents for one days attendance on this court as a witness for him against Wm Blow adm Sam Kello decd.
p.352 – An indenture of bargain and sale between Nicholas Brister and Penelope his wife of the one part and William Laurence of the other part was acknowledged by Nicholas Brister and Penelope his wife she beingfirst personally examined as the law directs and ordered to be recorded.
p.388 – An indenture of bargain and sale between john Urquhart and Nancy his wife of the one part and Nicholas Brister of the other with a commission for the pricey e___ of __ Nancy Urquhart and certificate of its execution was returned and continued.

Court Order Book 1805-1807
p.5 – A paper writing purporting to be a Deed in Trust between Nicholas Brister of the one part and William Lawrence of the other part was proved by the oaths of John Urquhart and Solomon Holmes two of the witnesses thereto and is ordered to be recorded.
p.6 – An indenture of bargain and sale between John Urquhart and Nancy his wife of the one part and Nicholas Brisdter of the other part was acknowledged by the said John Urquhart and together with the commission ann__ for taking the acknowledgement and privy explanations of the said Nancy and the certificate of the executions thereof are ordered to be recorded.
p.23 – David Windrow plaintiff against Nicholas Brister defendant – Upon a Petition & Summons. Represented by attorneys. Ordered that defendant recover costs of his defense from the plaintiff.
p.56 – William Atkinson plaintiff againsdt Nicholas Brister defendant – Tresspass on the case. On motion of defendant by his attorney who pleaded not guilty … ordered conditional judgement rendered at the last court be set aside.

Court Minute Book 1804-1806
p.133 – 20 Jan 1806 – The Last Will of Nicholas Brister presented in County by the exr. therein named proved by 2 wit. probate granted the ex. who gave bond.

Court Order Book 1807-1808
p.200 – 23 Nov 1808 – On the motion of Jno. and Penelope Brister, excrs. of Nicholas Brister for an injunction to stay proceedings of a judgment against them as executors aforesaid obtained by Robert Mabry at common law the same is granted them.

Court Minute Book  1809-1813
p.71 – 15 Jan 1810 – Joel Council is by the court appointed guardian to Saml. Bristow orphan of Nicholas Bristow who gave bond.

Court Order Book 1814-1816
p.183 – On the motion of Jesse Counsell, it is ordered that he be exonerated from the payment of the tax due damage on on hundred and fifteen acres and an half of ___ of same which was returned under the name of Penelope Brister for the year 1810. The attorney for the commonwealth being present.

Court Order Book 1816-1819
p.456 – Joel Council guardian to Samuel Brister orphan of Nicholas Brister decd. this day returned an account of his said ward’s estate which was examined and ordered by the court sworn to by the court and ordered to be recorded.

Court Order Book 1819-1822
p.126 – Joel Council guardian to Samuel Brister orphan of Nicholas Brister decd returned an account of his said ward’s estate which is ordered to be recorded.
p.300 – Joel Council guardian to Samuel Brister orphan of Nicholas Brister decd returned an account of his said ward’s estate which is ordered to be recorded.

Court Order Book 1822-1824
p.26 – Joel Council guardian to Samuel Brister orphan of Nicholas Brister this day returned an account of his said ward’s estate which was examined & ordered to be recorded.

Court Order Book 1824
p.16 – Joel Council guardian to Samuel Brister this day returned an account of said ward’s estate which was ordered to be recorded

Guardianship Book 1798-1836
p.172 – Account by Joel Counsel, guardian of Samuel Brister, orphan of Nicholas Brister 1813-1819 listed including expenses due the guardian for boarding, clothing, and schooling.
p.197 – 1819 – Samuel Brister orphan of Nicholas Brister. Guardian accounts by Joel Council up to 1 Jan 1820
p.198 – continuation – Joel Council made oath to authenticity of above account.
p.203 – Account of Peter Pierce of Rico B Pierce by his guardian Robert Goodwyn. Includes: notation for 1797 ‘To be paid for E____ Negroes this year…Nicholas Brister. 6.94
p.212 – 19 March 1921 – Samuel Brister orphan of Nicholas Brister – Guardian account by Joel Council. Balance due guardian with interest from 1 Jan 1821 to 1 Jan 1821.
p.220 – 17 Sep 1821 – Saml. Brister orphan of Nicholas Brister decd. Guardian account by Joel Council.
p.232 – 1822: Lemuel (Samuel) Brister orphan of Nicholas Brister decd. Guardian account by Joel Council returned.
Guardianship Book 2 1776-1810
p.327 – Penelope Johnson orphan of Giles Johnson decd in account with Daniel Simmons guardian. 9 Dec 1803 To cash paid Nicholas Brister.
p.360 – October Court 1808 – Rice B Pierce orphan in account with Robert Goodwyn his guardian. 1797 To paid Nicholas Brister for schooling. 2.18

LUCY BRISTOW
Born Est. 1772 – Died Aft. 1816

Lucy Brister, full age, and William Stephenson Jr married on 18 Oct 1782. Security and Witnesses by Stephen Sumerell, S. Kello, Samuel Brister.

Court Order Book 1816-1819
p.12 – Son James G Stephenson is assigned Benjamin Brister as his guardian

Court Order Book 1819-1822
p.81-82 – 16 November 1819 – Wilbourne Stephenson & Jeremiah, Peggy and James Stephenson, infants by Wilbourne Stephenson, plaintiff, against William G Stephenson, and infant by Benjamin Brister his guardian & next friend, defendant. Regarding the division of proceeds from the sale of a slave owned by William Stephenson, decd.
p.148-149 – 1819 – W. Stephenson, Jeremiah Stephenson, Peggy Stephenson and James Stephenson infants by their next fied Wilbourne Stephenson, plaintiff against William G Stephenson, an infant by his next friend & guardian Benjamin Brister, defendant. Regarding the division of sale of land owned by William Stephenson, decd.

JOHN BRISTOW
Born abt.1776 VA – Died 1822 VA

John Brister and Dianna (Diana) Bailey married in Southampton, VA on 1 Jan 1810. Security and witnesses: Samuel Bailey; Jas Roshell.
John Brister and Sally (Salley) Hart married in Southampton, VA on 18 Feb 1816. Security and witnesses: George Branch; M. Calvert.

Court Order Book 1802-1803
p.280 – John Bristow, juryman in case of Thomas Hunt, plaintiff, versus James Wilkinson, defendant
p.284 – Jno. Bristow, juryman in case of James Johnson, plaintiff, versus James Washington, defendant
P.288 – John Bristow, juryman in case of Excr. of Simon Harris, decd, plaintiff, versus Albrigton Browne deft.
p.386 – To John Bristow for patrolling 48 hours 2.00

Court Order Book 1803-1805
p. 468 – John Brister assignee of Jonathan Luton against Augustus B Simmons and Daniel Simmons, deft.

Court Order Book 1807-1808
p.200 – 23 Nov 1808 – On the motion of Jno. and Penelope Brister, excrs. of Nicholas Brister for an injunction to stay proceedings of a judgment against them as executors aforesaid obtained by Robert Mabry at common law the same is granted them.

Court Order Book 1816-1819
p.13 – John Brister and others ordered to appraise estate of Ann Simkins, decd
p.165 – John Brister – juryman
p.509 – John Brister and others ordered to appraise estate of Penelope Washington, decd
p.534 – John Urquhart plaintiff agaisnt Samuel Pond defendant. John Brister called as witness.

Court Order Book 1819-1822
p.55 – John Brister and others to appraise estate of Diannah Summerell decd
p.67 – John Brister and others to appraise estate of Henry Summerell decd
p.71 – An indenture of bargain and sale from Joseph H Summerell to John Brister was admitted to record in the Clerk’s office since las court. A certificate thereof in this day returned into court and ordered to be recorded during the proceedings of the day.
p.74 – 18 Nov 1819 – John Brister – juryman
p.286 – John Brister – juryman
p.320 – Charles Bailey, plaintiff, against John Brister, Defendant. Writ of enquiry set aside.
p.372 – Charles Bailey plaintiff, against John Brister, defendant.

Court Order Book 1822-1824
p.8 – The last Will and Testament of John Brister decd was proved by the oath of Benjamin L Drew one of the witnesses thereto and on the motion of Joshua Hart the executor therein named who made oath and together with George B__ and Lewis N__ __ __ securities…
p.159 – Charles Bailey, plaintiff, against John Brister, defendant. The defendant being dead on the motion of the plaintiff by his attorney and by consent of John Hart administrator of John Brister it is ordered that __ __ be recovered against the said Joshua Hart administrator as aforesaid and be continued __ the next quarterly Court.
p.381 – An inventory and appraisement of John Brister’s estate returned and ordered to be recorded.

Court Order Book 1824
p.4 – Ordered that Silas Summerell, Arthur Holleman, and James B Urquhart or any tow of them do examine state and settle an account current of Joshya Harts administration on John Brister’s estate and make report therof to Court.
p.43 – An account t current of the Estate of John Brister’s decd was this day determined & ordered to be recorded.
p.57 – Charles Bailey, plaintiff, against Joshua hart adm. John Brister, defendant
p.111 – Ordered that Master Commissioner Cobb examine state and settle an account current of John Hollemuns administration on John Brister’s estate and make report thereof to court.
p.114 – Ordered that one of the Commissioners of this Court examine State and settle and account current of Joshua Harts executorial proceedings on John Brister’s estate and make report therof to Court.

Will Book 9, 1812-1838, pp. 139-140 – Last Will and Testament of John Brister. Presented to court 18 March 1822. The will makes no mention of any children.

BENJAMIN BRISTOW
Born bet. 1771-1780 VA – Died 1839-1840 VA

Potentially born January 1760 according to Woolley’s timeline to Samuel Bristow and his first wife Mary (MNU). If he is the Benjamin Brister/Bristow listed in the Southampton, VA records, his census-based birth year estimate is 1771-1780, which would make him a son of the second wife, Ann. He married 30 Nov 1803 in Southampton, VA to Diannah Summerell.

Note that Woolley suggested Benjamin Bristow to be the individual who moved to Kentucky, but census and probate data reveal this family remains in Southampton County, Virginia.

Court Minute Book 1813-1816
p.127 – Benjamin Brister appointed overseer road called Pine Ridge road in room of Jacob F____
p.244 – Ordered that Benjamin Brister and others appraise estate of Erwin Johnson
p.318 – Adm on Wm Brister’s estate granted to Polly Brister who gave bond & security. Ordered that James Clayton, Benjamin Brister, Benjamin Wilson & Jesse Law or any 3 appraise said estate.
p.322 – Benjamin Brister and others ordered to appraise estate of John Suter
p.342 – Benjamin Brister and others ordered to appraise estate of Isaac Highpath
p.349 – Benjamin Brister and other ordered to apprainse estate of Jiles Suters

Court Order Book 1814-1816
p.151 – Benjamin Brister and others ordered to appraise slaves if any and personal estate of Erwin Johnson, decd
p.272 – Benjamin Brister provided security
p.273 – Benjamin Brister and others to appraise estate of William Brister dec’d
p.274 – Benjamin Brister provided security for Wilborn Stephenson on admr. the estate of Lucy Stephenson.
p.278 – Benjamin Brister and others to appraise estate of John Suter, decd
p.315 – Benjamin Brister and others ordered to appraise estate of Isaac Hedgepeth.
p.326 – Benjamin Brister and others ordered to appraise estate of Jiles Suter, decd.
p.359 – Benjamin Bristow for erecting two log forts – 5.00
Court Order Book 1816-1819
p.12 – Benjamin Brister is by the Court assigned guardian to James G Stephenson orphan of William Stephenson deceased whereon the said Brister together with Herod Summerell and Wilborn Stephenson his securities entered into and acknowledged a bond in the penalty of one thousand dollars with condition according to law.
Court Order Book 1819-1822
p.81-82 – 16 November 1819 – Wilbourne Stephenson & Jeremiah, Peggy and James Stephenson, infants by Wilbourne Stephenson, plaintiff, against William G Stephenson, and infant by Benjamin Brister his guardian & next friend, defendant. Regarding the division of proceeds from the sale of a slave owned by William Stephenson, decd.
p.148-149 – 1819 – W. Stephenson, Jeremiah Stephenson, Peggy Stephenson and James Stephenson infants by their next fied Wilbourne Stephenson, plaintiff against William G Stephenson, an infant by his next friend & guardian Benjamin Brister, defendant. Regarding the division of sale of land owned by William Stephenson, decd.
p.152 – Benjamin Brister – juryman
p.161 – Benjamin Brister surveyor of the road
p.246 – Branch W Beville plaintiff against Jordan Beale, Benjamin Brister & John Stephenson defendants.
p.340 – The United States, plaintiff, against Benjamin Brister, defendant. Re: In Debt.
Court Order Book 1822-1824
p.7 – The United States, plaintiff, against Benjamin Brister, defendant. Re: In Debt
p.39 – The United States of America against Benjamin Brister. Debt.
p.68 – Benjamin Brister surveyor of the road – 4.00
p.92 – Benjamin Brister’s property located on road to be surveyed
p.149 – Richard H Baker, plaintiff, against John Stephenson and Benjamin Brister. Re: Bond
p.173 – Archibald Atkinson, plaintiff, against John Stephenson and Benjamin Brister. Re: In debt
p.191 – Benjamin Bristow motions for leave to alter the road leading to his plantation.
p.194 – 17 Feb 1823 – Regarding altering the road leading to Benjamin Brister’s plantation.
p.256 – Surveyor of road appointed from Benjamin Brister’s to Boykin’s mill.
p.259 – Benjamin Brister 1.50
p.290 – The United States of America, plaintiff, against Thaddeus Powell and Benjamin Brister, defendants. Re: In Debt.
p.322 – The Last Will and Testament of Philip Raiford deceased was proved by the oaths of Benjamin Brister and Thomas J Brister two of the witnesses thereto and ordered to be recorded.

Will Book 14, 1847-1852, p.227. Will of Benjamin Brister, written Dec 1839, naming wife Diannah and 4 children: Sally Camp, Benjamin, James, and Thomas J. Brister.

Bristow Children: 4
1.) Thomas Jefferson Brister m. 15 Apr 1833 to Maria A Edwards
2.) Sally Brister m. 15 Feb 1830 to John Camp
3.) Benjamin Brister m. 20 Nov 1848 to Jane P. Edwards. Dec’d (See Order Book 1875-1881, p441.)
4.) James W Brister m. 18/21 Jan 1847 Sarah W Worrell. Will written 18 July 1882, Will Book 11A pp.224-225.

JAMES BRISTOW
Born 1771-1780 VA – Died aft. 1830

Court Order Book 1819-1822
p.167 – James Brister, plaintiff, against Sarah Stephenson, defendant. Re: In Debt.
p.364 – James Brister, plaintiff, against Isaiah Stephenson, defendant. Re: In Debt.
Court Order Book 1822-1824
p.289 – Charles Bailey, plaintiff, against John Hart and James Brister, defendants

The 1830 census pf Southampton, VA includes an entry for a James Brister:
1 Free White Male 50-59
2 Free White Males 20-29
1 Free Colored Female 24-35
1 Free Colored Female under 10
Slaves: 1M and 2 F 10-23, 6 M and 5 F under 10

Court Order Book 1835-1839
p.154 – James Brister plaintiff against Henry Parker and Edward Butts defendants. Re: an injunction
p.185 – Henry Parker for the benefit of Edward Butts plaintiff against James Brister & Benjamin Barnham defendants

Court Order Book 1839-1843
p.432 – Benjamin W Barham against James Brister

Entries below could be James’ nephew James W Brister, son of Benjamin Brister, born abt. 1823. The second entry definitely belongs to the younger man.

Court Order Book 1843-1849
p.148 – James Brister account 3.00
p.598 – Shadrach Worrell plaintiff against Benjmain, Martha & Sally Warrell, James Brister & Sarah his wife, Thomas EJoyner & Elizabeth his Wife & Thomas C & Margaret Worrell infants of tender years by LR Edwards their guardian ad librum, defendants

HANNAH BRISTOW
Born about. 1785 VA – Aft. 1850 NC

Hannah ‘Hanner’ Brister married Eli Draper on 28 Jan 1808 in Southampton County, VA. Security and Witnesses: Thomas Chappell.

The Drapers remained in Southampton, VA at least through the 1820 census:
Ely Draper Household – 7 Aug 1820
1 M and 1 F 26-44 (1776-1794)
2M 10-15 (1805-1810)
2M and 2F under 10 (1811-1820)

By 1830 they had moved to Halifax County, North Carolina:
Eli Draper Household
1M and 1F 40-49 (1781-1790)
2M 15-19 (1811-1815)
1M and 1F 10-14 (1816-1820)
1M 5-9 (1821-1825)
Free Colored Persons: 1F 24-35 (1795-1806) and 1M under 10 (1821-1829)

The 1840 Eli Draper Household, District 10, Halifax, North Carolina:
1M and 1F 50-59 (1781-1790)
1F 20-29 (1811-1820)
1M 15-19 (1821-1825)
Free Colored Persons: 1F 36-54 (1786-1804), 2M 10-23 (1718-1830), 3M and 2F under 10 (1831-1840)
Slaves: 1M and 1F 24-35, 1F 10-23, 1M and 1F under 10.

The 1850 Census of Halifax County, North Carolina:
Eli Draper 65 male farmer real estate value 150 born Virginia
Hannah Draper 65 female born Virginia
Ann Draper 36 female born Virginia

WILLIS BRISTOW
Born 1781-1790 VA – Died 1832 VA

Willis Bristow married Elizabeth Bab on 18 Feb 1811 in Southampton County, VA. Security and Witnesses: Jesse Draper and Eli Draper.

Court Order Book 1814-1816
p. 315 – The Last Will and Testament of Lucy Bittle deceased was proved they the oaths of Frances Cotton and Willis Brister two of the witnesses thereto and is ordered to be recorded. Samuel blunt the executor names therein refusing(under his hand) to take upon himself the burden of the executions therof–.
p.335 – The Last Will and Testament of Lucy Bittle deceased was proved by the oat of Francis Cotton one of the witnesses thereto and having been before proved by the oath of Willis Brister another witness thereto, is ordered to be recorded.
Court Order Book 1816-1819
p.299 – Drury Waller administrator…of Nathaniel Foster for the benefit of Willis Brister Plaintiff against Charles Stewart and Edward Jones defendant.
p.392 – Willis Brister – juryman

Willis Bristow married Betsey Bittle on 24 Dec 1818 in Southampton County, VA. Security and Witnesses: Charles Simmons, J. Rochelle.

Court Order Book 1819-1822
p.83 – Willis Brister and john Rochelle securities for defendants Thomas W Bittle and George Blow in case re: estate of Lucy Bittle
p.84 – Willis Brister, Thomas W Bittle, and John Rochelle securities for defendants Elizabeth Bittle and George Blow in case re: estate of Lucy Bittle
p.157 – 20 June 1820 – Henry Welsh against Thomas W Bittle. Willis Brister appeared in court for defendant.
p.190 – Willis Brister and John Rochelle, securities for Thomas W Bittle and George Blow, defendants in case re: estate of Lucy Bittle
p.241 – Drury Waller admr. of Nathaniel Foster decd. for Richard P Clements late Sheriff for whom the estate of Lucy Bittle decd hath been committed, plaintiff, against Willis Brister, Thomas Bittle, and Giles Reese, defendants, Re: a bond
p.382 – Motion re: estate of Lucy Bittle in favor of Willis Brister, the sum of $15.50

Will Book 8 1815-1818, p.108 – Willis Brister is a witness to the will of Lucy Bittle, pp.107-108.

1830 Census – Southampton, VA: Willis Brister Household
1M 40-49 (1781-1790); 1F 30-39 (1791-1800)
1F 10-14 (1816-1820); 1M 5-9 (1821-1825); 1F under 5 (1826-1830)
Slaves: 1 F 10-23

Will Book 11, p. 8, and Will Book 12, p.16 and 17, inventory of Willis Brister’s estate ordered Jan 1832.

READING and RESOURCES

BOOK: Gordon Byron Woolley, John Bristow of Middlesex County, and His Descendants through Ten Generations (New York: Vantage Press, 1969), 13-17, traces John’s activities in Middlesex and includes a transcript of his will, dated 20 February 1716, from Middlesex Wills B: 51.

BOOK: Hopkins, William Lindsay (1989). Middlesex County, Virginia Wills, Inventories and Accounts, 1673-1812 and other Court Papers. Iberian Publishing Company, Athens, Georgia.

WEBSITE: Daniel Entries from Middlesex County, Virginia Willis and Inventories 1673-1812 and other Court Papers by William Lindsay Hopkins, 1989. Digital Repository: pamiller.net

WEBSITE: Parish Register of Christ Church Middlesex County VA from 1653 to 1812 – Daniel Entries Digital Repository: pamiller.net

WEBSITE: Southampton County, Virginia Marriage Registry 1750-1853. Digital Repository: The Brantley Association of America.

WEBSITE: Southampton County Virginia Marriage Registry. Digital Repository: The Brantley Association

WEBSITE: Southampton County Records. Digital Repository: The Brantley Association

DOCUMENTS/RESEARCH: Ancestry user amaldo6922 collected Bristow family data posted onto the gallery pages of The Wright Family Tree, including ‘Brister Family Records’, ‘Samuel Bristow and Anne Guthery’, which includes research from The Brantley Association digital collection of Southampton Virginia records, and their personal theories on family relationships published in early works.

NO ENTRIES FOUND:
Neither Surry County Virginia Deeds 1684-1733 and other Court Papers, nor Surry County Deeds and Estate Accounts, both by William Lindsay Hopkins, include any Samuel Bristow entries. The same author also has versions for Isle of Wight County and Isle of White County Deeds, also without any Samuel Bristow entries. No Samuel Bristow records found in the volume for Sussex County Will Books, but there is one entry for a Robert Brister on p.110. No deeds for Sussex County. There is no variation of these books for Southampton County.

The Southampton County Virginia Deed Book No. 3 1760-1767 (FHL Film #008562417 beg. img 483 of 717) – No Bristow. – Grantor – Page Ripped – Uncertain if there are any Bristow entries.

FHL Film #008579470 – IMG 105 of 468 – Grantee Index – Brister and Bristow Entries – None for Samuel.

DOCUMENT: Last Will and Testament of Benjamin Guthrie, FHL Film # 007645444, Middlesex Virginia Will Book F, p.179-180 (images 98 and 99 of 538). Digital Repository: Family Search.

DOCUMENT: Appraisment of the Estate of Benjamin Guthrie, FHL Film # 007645444, Middlesex Virginia Will Book F, p.194 (image 106 of 538). Digital Repository: Family Search.

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