Moses
Helm,
Farms and Home Found
aka: Moses Hellim, Moses Hellum
(updated: January 2022)
aka: Moses Hellim, Moses Hellum
(updated: January 2022)
Copyright © 2010-2024 Gary Helm
When doing research phonetic spellings of the family name are beneficial because in various legal documents up to 1810 the family name is also spelled: Hellum, Hellim, Hellom, Hellm, Helmn, Healm, Hillan, Hilton, Healton, Helton, Hylton and Helms.
[NOTES: On the Internet you will find many places connecting Jacob Helms as being William, or the Prilliman being Moses' brother.
DNA results have proven Jacob and the Prillamans are not related to Moses or Sarah. They are related to a Helms family, but genetically are not related to Moses Helm family.
There is no documentation of Moses having the name Robert prior to the mid-1900s. You will also find many places listing Moses' and Sarah's children with middle names. There is no documentation any of them having middle names prior to mid-1900s. With that I think someone added middle names for the purpose of distinguishing them from other family members with the same first names.
I have also found no documentation of William except family tradition. Family tradition holds William died at an early age by drowning.]
There is no documentation of Moses having the name Robert prior to the mid-1900s. You will also find many places listing Moses' and Sarah's children with middle names. There is no documentation any of them having middle names prior to mid-1900s. With that I think someone added middle names for the purpose of distinguishing them from other family members with the same first names.
I have also found no documentation of William except family tradition. Family tradition holds William died at an early age by drowning.]
I have not found or been shown any extant documentation to substantiate when or where Moses Helm was born, migrated to America, or married.
Family tradition has: Moses being born during early 1700's (c.1711 or before), that he migrated to America around 1738, that he married Sarah Jameson (c.1739 or before), and Sarah was born c.1711.
Tax records and a signed petition to divide Bedford County and create Campbell County Virginia suppport: Moses died in late 1781 or early 1782; and Sarah died in 1803 or 1804.
No grave stones have been found for Moses or Sarah. Cemeteries that were in use in the area at the time of their deaths include: Dixon Cemetery; Old Concord Presbyterian Cemeteries #1 and #2. This is assuming they were living on the property near Pilot Mountain and not on one of the other two properties and buried near there, or in a family cemetery on one of the properties.
Chancery Court records do list Moses' and Sarah's children and grand children by name.
The children of Moses Helm and Sarah Jamison Helm are:
- Elizabeth Helm: born November 15, 1739; she died before 1786.
- John Helm: born August 14, 1741; he died April 20, 1826.
- Mary Helm: born October 23, 1743; she died February 18, 1837.
- William Helm: born September 11, 1745; he died c.1768.
- Thomas Helm: born July 22, 1748; he died March 15, 1781.
- Susannah Helm: born June 15, 1750; she died c1836.
- Jane Helm: born May 25, 1752; she died April 1825.
- Sarah Helm: born October 8, 1755; she died January 11, 1843.
In 1738, Moses Helm and Thomas Helm witness signing a document in Belfast, Ireland for William Lin of Basking Ridge (NJ) to serve as Power of Attorney for widow.
Ann Drennan of
Donogore, County
Antrim widow, appoints as her attorney
William Linn of Baskingridge NJ, weaver, to recover debts due the
account of her husband Gilbert Drennan, late of Cecil County,
deceased,
schoolmaster. Ann Drennan alias McMurtry of Donegore made oath she
was
married to the within named Gilbert Drennan for about 20 years
preceding April 1729 when he transported himself to America and that
she had been informed her husband had lately died in Cecil Co. and
that
William forster of said place had obtained letters of administration
to
the effects of her husband without her approbation or consent. She
desires that hist assets and effects be deposited in the custody of
said William Linn for her use. Made and attested to 24 July 1738 in
Belfast by Margotson Saunders. Wit. Moses Helm, Thomas Helm.
1740
Moses Hellim bought property in Piscataway Middlesex (NJ).
Thomas Helm registered the document mentioned above, in Baltimore MD, which he and Moses Helm signed in Belfast.
Ackn in Cecil County MD, 6 Jan 1740 by Thomas Helm who was present in Belfast
Ireland and saw Ann Drennan sign and seal this power of attorney. JP Wm Ramsey. Rec. 24 Jan 1740 Wm Knight Clerk.
1745-1748
Between 1745 and 1748, Moses began the process of obtaining 300 acres of land grant on Fish Pond Creek in Albemarle County Virginia.
At the time, a person in Virginia could claim a grant of 50 acres for them self, 50 acres for their wife and 50 acres for each of their children.
Obtaining three hundred acres substantiates Moses was married and together, he and Sarah have four children when he began the process of obtaining the land grant.
Obtaining and keeping a land grant was not easy. It took a long time to complete the grant. One ad to live on the property, and make improvements to the property in order before the grant was official. The land grant on Fishpond Creek was not completed and obtained for another twelve to fifteen years. During the first six to nine years after applying for the grant the property had been part of Albemarel County, and became part of Bedford County in 1754, when part of Albemarle County was added to Bedford County.
In 1753 Bedford County is formed out of Lunenburg County Virginia in 1753.
In 1754 Bedford County is enlarged by adding part of Albemarle County.
In 1754 Bedford County is enlarged by adding part of Albemarle County.
In Virginia, and in contrast to various family traditions based a misreading and misunderstanding the Bedford County road order of December 1754, Moses Helm did not have a contract to survey and build a new road in Bedford County Virginia. However, this document does tell us, Moses Helm lived in Bedford county during 1754, and he lived somewhere in the vicinity of the road where John Beard was the Overseer.
Bedford County
Court
Book
December 23, 1754:
Moses Hellum, Wm: Moore, Thomas Franklin, John Bollings Tiths, William Rutherford, James Murphy, James Wheeler, John Gallaway, Archibald Campbell, James Machvenals, Edm: Fair, Nicholas Hays, Lewis Franklin, Edmond Franklin, John Thompson, John Pleasants Tiths, Nathn: Paterson, Hugh Bowles and John Carson Ordered to work on the Road whereof John Beard is Overseer.
Moses Hellum, Wm: Moore, Thomas Franklin, John Bollings Tiths, William Rutherford, James Murphy, James Wheeler, John Gallaway, Archibald Campbell, James Machvenals, Edm: Fair, Nicholas Hays, Lewis Franklin, Edmond Franklin, John Thompson, John Pleasants Tiths, Nathn: Paterson, Hugh Bowles and John Carson Ordered to work on the Road whereof John Beard is Overseer.
We are benefited by the fact the names of the persons are listed in this road order. Most road orders merely read "and all tithables."; The tithable list; was comprised of all males over the age of 16 living in a given area. All males over the age of 16 were required to be registered by June 6, and this list was used by the courts during the subsequent year.
LUNENBURG
COUNTY
ROAD ORDERS
1746-1764; pdf 93-r17
The establishment and maintenance of public roads was one of the most important functions of the County Court during the colonial period in Virginia. Each road was opened and maintained by an Overseer of Highways appointed by the Gentlemen Justices yearly. He was usually assigned all the Laboring Male Titheables living on or near the road for this purpose. These individuals then furnished all their own tools, wagons, and teams and were required to labor for six days each year on the roads.
The establishment and maintenance of public roads was one of the most important functions of the County Court during the colonial period in Virginia. Each road was opened and maintained by an Overseer of Highways appointed by the Gentlemen Justices yearly. He was usually assigned all the Laboring Male Titheables living on or near the road for this purpose. These individuals then furnished all their own tools, wagons, and teams and were required to labor for six days each year on the roads.
John Beard was the overseer of several roads and specific to where Moses Helm lived, were two: John Beard was the overseer of a road which had been in Lunenburg County, and a road which had been in Albemarle County, both of which in 1754 were in Bedford County.
Letters for Moses Helm and Christopher Helm are listed in NJ newspaper as being at the post office. The newspaper listing has the words Bethlehem town in NJ, later known as Bethlehem township in NJ.
Moses Helm did not select the most peaceful time to move his family to Virginia.
1754 - 1763 French Indian War: Albemarele and Bedford County were attacked by several groups of Indians during the French and Indian War.
In 1756, raids in Virginia penetrated into Albemarle, Bedford, Halifax, and Albemarle Counties.
In mid-July [1757] a raiding party attacked southern Augusta County, penetrating deep into Bedford County, Halifax, and even Lunenburg Counties.
Raiding parties descended on the Virginia frontier in April [1758] and devastated a large area, killing or capturing over sixty settlers in Augusta, Bedford, Halifax, and Albemarle Counties. Hundreds more fled in panic. Their panic was heightened when on April 27 the raiders destroyed Upper Tract Fort and then on the following day descended upon Fort Seybert. Believing they would be allowed to return to Virginia, the garrison surrendered. However, the Indians seized the garrison, killing sixteen and taking the remaining twenty four into captivity.
In mid-July [1757] a raiding party attacked southern Augusta County, penetrating deep into Bedford County, Halifax, and even Lunenburg Counties.
Raiding parties descended on the Virginia frontier in April [1758] and devastated a large area, killing or capturing over sixty settlers in Augusta, Bedford, Halifax, and Albemarle Counties. Hundreds more fled in panic. Their panic was heightened when on April 27 the raiders destroyed Upper Tract Fort and then on the following day descended upon Fort Seybert. Believing they would be allowed to return to Virginia, the garrison surrendered. However, the Indians seized the garrison, killing sixteen and taking the remaining twenty four into captivity.
To the right is a picture of the property north of Pilot Mountain, taken from "Watkins Corner on Beards old path" with Pilot Moutain in the background.
1757
June 13, 1757: Thomas Leerwood had acquired a land grant in Bedford County, signed by Rob Dinwiddie, "154 acres to Thomas Leerwood.. in the County of Lunenburg.. on the head branches of Reedy Creek by the north side of Pilot Mountain and bounded as beginning at Watkens Corner on Beards old path..."
Thomas
Leerwood 154
Acres: Robert
Dinwiddie
George the second ~ To all ~ Knowye that for divers good causes and Considerations but more especially for and in Consideration of the sum of Fifteen Shillings of good and lawful Money for our use paid to our Reciever General of our Roven uses in this our Colony and Dominion of Virginia We have given granted and Confirmed and by these prevents for us our Heirs and Successors Do give grant and confirm unto Thomas Leerwood one certain Tract or Parcel of Land containing one hundred and fifty four acores lying and being in the County of Lunenburg on the head branches of Reedy Creek by the North side of the Pilot mountain and ~ bounded as followeth, to wit, Beginning at Watkins Corner pointers on Beards old path thence new lines North sixty five Degrees East one hundred and thirty four poles to a Hicory North eighty five Degrees East seventy four poles to a Hicory North sixty five Degrees East thirty six poles to a white Oak North fifteen Degrees East thirty poles to a white Oak South sixty five Degrees East one hundred and twenty poles to three white Oaks South twenty Degrees East fourty four poles to a Chesnut South seventy five Degrees West seventy six poles to a white Oak North eighty three Degrees West thirty eight poles to a Hicory South seventy Degrees West eighty poles to a white Oak North eighty Degrees West one hundred and forty poles to a white Oak South fifteen Degrees West forty poles to a Spanish Oak in Watkins line and thence along his line North twenty eight Degrees West fifty four poles to the first Station With All ~ To have hold ~ To beheld ~ Yielding and Paying ~ Provided ~ In Witness ~ Witness our Trusty and well beloved Robert Dinwiddie Esquire our Lieutenant Governor and Commander in chief of our said Colony and Dominion at Williamsburg under the Seal of our Colony the thirteenth day of June One thousand seven hundred and fifty seven In the thirtieth year Year of our Reign. Rob: Dinwiddie
George the second ~ To all ~ Knowye that for divers good causes and Considerations but more especially for and in Consideration of the sum of Fifteen Shillings of good and lawful Money for our use paid to our Reciever General of our Roven uses in this our Colony and Dominion of Virginia We have given granted and Confirmed and by these prevents for us our Heirs and Successors Do give grant and confirm unto Thomas Leerwood one certain Tract or Parcel of Land containing one hundred and fifty four acores lying and being in the County of Lunenburg on the head branches of Reedy Creek by the North side of the Pilot mountain and ~ bounded as followeth, to wit, Beginning at Watkins Corner pointers on Beards old path thence new lines North sixty five Degrees East one hundred and thirty four poles to a Hicory North eighty five Degrees East seventy four poles to a Hicory North sixty five Degrees East thirty six poles to a white Oak North fifteen Degrees East thirty poles to a white Oak South sixty five Degrees East one hundred and twenty poles to three white Oaks South twenty Degrees East fourty four poles to a Chesnut South seventy five Degrees West seventy six poles to a white Oak North eighty three Degrees West thirty eight poles to a Hicory South seventy Degrees West eighty poles to a white Oak North eighty Degrees West one hundred and forty poles to a white Oak South fifteen Degrees West forty poles to a Spanish Oak in Watkins line and thence along his line North twenty eight Degrees West fifty four poles to the first Station With All ~ To have hold ~ To beheld ~ Yielding and Paying ~ Provided ~ In Witness ~ Witness our Trusty and well beloved Robert Dinwiddie Esquire our Lieutenant Governor and Commander in chief of our said Colony and Dominion at Williamsburg under the Seal of our Colony the thirteenth day of June One thousand seven hundred and fifty seven In the thirtieth year Year of our Reign. Rob: Dinwiddie
September 24, 1757, Bedford Deed Book 1 pp 139-142.
Soon after Thomas Leerwood obtained the property, Moses Helm bought this property from Thomas Leerwood. The deed reflects the property was well developed, containing "Houses, Orchards, Garden, fences, Waters & Water courses way, wood & Underwood"
Leerwood to
Helm 154
Acres:
Thomas Leerwood, Elizabeth Leerwood; Moses
Helm
This Indenture made this twenty fourth day of September in the year of our Lord Christ on Thousand seven Hundred & fifty seven Between Thomas Leerwood and Elizabeth Leerwood his wife of the County Prince Edward of the one Part and Moses Helm of the County of Bedford Witnesseth that the said Thomas Leerwood_Elizabeth his wife for and in Consideration of the sum ^[ ]fifty five pounds Current Money of Virginia to him in Hand paid by the said Moses Helm the ~ Reciept whereof they Hereby acknowledge hath given granted Bargained sold Alien'd Enfeoff & Confirmed and by these Presents doth grant Bargain sell Alien Enfe off and confirm unto the said Moses Helm & to his Heirs and assigns forever, One Certain Tract or Parcel of land & lying & being in the County of Bedford on the Head Branches of Reedy Creek containing one Hundred and fifty four acres and is Bounded as followeth to wit Beginning at Waltkens former Pointers on Beard old Path thence New line North sixty five Degrees East one Hundred & thirty^four poles to a Hickory, North Eighty five Degrees East seventy four to a Hickory, North sixty five degrees East thirty six poles to a White oak, North fifteen Degrees East thirty poles to a White oak, North fifteen Degrees East thirty poles to a White oak, South sixty five Degrees East One Hundred and twenty poles to three White oaks, South Twenty Degrees East Forty four Poles to a Chestnut, South seventy five Degrees West thirty eight Poles to a Hickory, South seventy Dregrees West eighty Poles to a White oak, North eighty Degrees West one Hundred & forty Poles to a White oak, South fifteen Degrees West Forty Poles to a Spanish oake in Watkens Line and thence along his Line North twenty eight Degrees West fifty four Poles to the first Station. Together with all Houses, Orchards, Garden, fences, Waters & Water courses way, wood & Underwood, [ ] of its Commodities advantages and all other apperenances Whatsoever to the same Belonging or in any wise appertaining To Have and to hold the aforesaid one Hundred fifty acres of Land Together with the afore Recited Primises and every Tract & Parcel thereof with these & every of their appertenances unto the said Moses Helm his Heirs and assigns forever and the said Thomas Leerwood & Elizabeth his wife for themselves their Heirs Executors and Administraors doth Covenant Grant and agree[ ] with the said Moses Helm his Heirs and assigns that they the said Thomas Leerwood and Elizabeth his Wife and their Heirs Ye^a The above Mentioned Land & Premises is with their and and every of their appertenances unto the said Moses Helm and of his Heirs and assigns forever, To the only Proper use and Behoof of him the said Moses Hoolm and of his heirsforever against him and them the said Thomas Leerwood and Elizab[ ] wife their Heirs Executors and Administ[ ] .. Thomas Leerwood and Elizabeth his Wife hath here unto set their Hands & Affixed their seal the day & year first above [ ] ... Thomas Leerwood his mark Elizabeth Leerwood her mark Witnesses Present Nathanael Peterson, Joseph McAlistery, James Patterson Memorandum that on the twenty fourth day of September One Thousand seven Hundred and fifty seven Quit & Peacable Posision and Siszing of the Land & Simaments within Mentioned was Hoag Taken By the Watken Named Thomas Leerwood and Elizabeth his Wife and by them was Delivered to the Witkin Moses Helm according to the form & Effect of the Wlkin Written Decd Thomas W Leerwood mark Elizabeth W Leerwood mark In the Presence of Nathanael Patterson, Joseph McAlistery, James Patterson Then Rec'd of Moses Helm the [ ] Sum of Twenty five Pounds Current Money of Virginia it being in full the Consideration Money in this Deed Mentioned of me. Thomas W Leerwood mark At a Court held for Bedford County September the [ ] This Indenture and Memorandum [ ].. were provided by the Oaths of Nathaniel Patterson, Joseph McAlistery & James Patterson Witnesses thereto & Orderd to be Recorded ~ Teste Benjamin Howard CBC
This Indenture made this twenty fourth day of September in the year of our Lord Christ on Thousand seven Hundred & fifty seven Between Thomas Leerwood and Elizabeth Leerwood his wife of the County Prince Edward of the one Part and Moses Helm of the County of Bedford Witnesseth that the said Thomas Leerwood_Elizabeth his wife for and in Consideration of the sum ^[ ]fifty five pounds Current Money of Virginia to him in Hand paid by the said Moses Helm the ~ Reciept whereof they Hereby acknowledge hath given granted Bargained sold Alien'd Enfeoff & Confirmed and by these Presents doth grant Bargain sell Alien Enfe off and confirm unto the said Moses Helm & to his Heirs and assigns forever, One Certain Tract or Parcel of land & lying & being in the County of Bedford on the Head Branches of Reedy Creek containing one Hundred and fifty four acres and is Bounded as followeth to wit Beginning at Waltkens former Pointers on Beard old Path thence New line North sixty five Degrees East one Hundred & thirty^four poles to a Hickory, North Eighty five Degrees East seventy four to a Hickory, North sixty five degrees East thirty six poles to a White oak, North fifteen Degrees East thirty poles to a White oak, North fifteen Degrees East thirty poles to a White oak, South sixty five Degrees East One Hundred and twenty poles to three White oaks, South Twenty Degrees East Forty four Poles to a Chestnut, South seventy five Degrees West thirty eight Poles to a Hickory, South seventy Dregrees West eighty Poles to a White oak, North eighty Degrees West one Hundred & forty Poles to a White oak, South fifteen Degrees West Forty Poles to a Spanish oake in Watkens Line and thence along his Line North twenty eight Degrees West fifty four Poles to the first Station. Together with all Houses, Orchards, Garden, fences, Waters & Water courses way, wood & Underwood, [ ] of its Commodities advantages and all other apperenances Whatsoever to the same Belonging or in any wise appertaining To Have and to hold the aforesaid one Hundred fifty acres of Land Together with the afore Recited Primises and every Tract & Parcel thereof with these & every of their appertenances unto the said Moses Helm his Heirs and assigns forever and the said Thomas Leerwood & Elizabeth his wife for themselves their Heirs Executors and Administraors doth Covenant Grant and agree[ ] with the said Moses Helm his Heirs and assigns that they the said Thomas Leerwood and Elizabeth his Wife and their Heirs Ye^a The above Mentioned Land & Premises is with their and and every of their appertenances unto the said Moses Helm and of his Heirs and assigns forever, To the only Proper use and Behoof of him the said Moses Hoolm and of his heirsforever against him and them the said Thomas Leerwood and Elizab[ ] wife their Heirs Executors and Administ[ ] .. Thomas Leerwood and Elizabeth his Wife hath here unto set their Hands & Affixed their seal the day & year first above [ ] ... Thomas Leerwood his mark Elizabeth Leerwood her mark Witnesses Present Nathanael Peterson, Joseph McAlistery, James Patterson Memorandum that on the twenty fourth day of September One Thousand seven Hundred and fifty seven Quit & Peacable Posision and Siszing of the Land & Simaments within Mentioned was Hoag Taken By the Watken Named Thomas Leerwood and Elizabeth his Wife and by them was Delivered to the Witkin Moses Helm according to the form & Effect of the Wlkin Written Decd Thomas W Leerwood mark Elizabeth W Leerwood mark In the Presence of Nathanael Patterson, Joseph McAlistery, James Patterson Then Rec'd of Moses Helm the [ ] Sum of Twenty five Pounds Current Money of Virginia it being in full the Consideration Money in this Deed Mentioned of me. Thomas W Leerwood mark At a Court held for Bedford County September the [ ] This Indenture and Memorandum [ ].. were provided by the Oaths of Nathaniel Patterson, Joseph McAlistery & James Patterson Witnesses thereto & Orderd to be Recorded ~ Teste Benjamin Howard CBC
To the right is a photo of the old chimney, estimated circa mid 1700's to early 1800's and the probable location of Moses Helm's home, in what is now in Campbell County Virginia.
Another (second) set of letters addressed to Moses Helm is listed in the (NJ) Post Office.
1759 to 1761 The Cherokee War
While Britain and colonists basked in victory in Canada, the backcountry of Virginia remained violent.
Anglo-Cherokee relations broke down and resulted in the Cherokee War. The Cherokee War that descended upon the backcountry of the Carolinas and Virginia from 1759 to 1761 had many of its origins in the diplomacy
of the Seven Years War.
Shawnee raids into Bedford and Halifax Counties, along the routes traversed by Cherokee warriors, further complicated Anglo-Cherokee relations. Local inhabitants could not distinguish between Cherokee allies and Shawnee enemies and treated all Indians with similar enmity.
Peace had finally been concluded, but in Virginia the Cherokee War left a legacy of deep popular resentment.
While the bulk of the devastation caused by the war was on the Carolina frontier, Augusta, Halifax, and Bedford Counties in Virginia had all suffered from Cherokee raids and particularly major raids on Halifax County in the spring of 1758 and on Augusta and Halifax Counties in May and June 1760.
Shawnee raids into Bedford and Halifax Counties, along the routes traversed by Cherokee warriors, further complicated Anglo-Cherokee relations. Local inhabitants could not distinguish between Cherokee allies and Shawnee enemies and treated all Indians with similar enmity.
Peace had finally been concluded, but in Virginia the Cherokee War left a legacy of deep popular resentment.
While the bulk of the devastation caused by the war was on the Carolina frontier, Augusta, Halifax, and Bedford Counties in Virginia had all suffered from Cherokee raids and particularly major raids on Halifax County in the spring of 1758 and on Augusta and Halifax Counties in May and June 1760.
1760
On July 15, 1760: Moses Helm finally received the grant for 300 acres in Albemarle County Virginia, on both sides of Fish Pond Creek, on the Appomattox River, and the grant is signed by Fran. Fauquier.
Moses Helm 300
Acres, Albemarle
County, Fishpond Creek
George the Second: To all: Know ye that for divers good Causes and considerations but more Especially for and in consideration fo the sum of thirty shilling of good and lawful money for our use paid to our receiver general of our revenues in this our Colony and Dominion of Virginia we have given granted and confirmed and by these prevents for us our heirs and successors do give grant and confirm unto Moses Helm one certain tract or parcel of land containing three hundred acres lying and being in the county of Albermarle on both sides of Fish Pond Creek a branch of Appomattox River and bounded as followeth (to wit) Beginning at a Spanish Oak standing near Fishpond Creek on the west side and running thence new lines south thirty five degrees west three hundred vialy for poles to a pine south thirty five degrees east one hundred forty two poles crossing the county road to a pine north sialy for degrees east one hundred seveny six poles crossing a branch several times and Fishpond Creek to pointers near the road thense north sixteen degrees west one hundred and four poles crossing the road to pointers thence north two hundred thirty four poles crossing the creek several times to the first station, with all to have hold to be held yielding and paying provided in witness. Witness our trusty and welbeloved Francis Fauquier Esquire our Lieutenant Governor and Commander in Chief of our said Colony and Dominion at Williamsburgh under the seal of our said colony the fifteenth day of July One thousand seven hundred and sixty in the thirty fourth year of our reign.
Fran Fauquier
George the Second: To all: Know ye that for divers good Causes and considerations but more Especially for and in consideration fo the sum of thirty shilling of good and lawful money for our use paid to our receiver general of our revenues in this our Colony and Dominion of Virginia we have given granted and confirmed and by these prevents for us our heirs and successors do give grant and confirm unto Moses Helm one certain tract or parcel of land containing three hundred acres lying and being in the county of Albermarle on both sides of Fish Pond Creek a branch of Appomattox River and bounded as followeth (to wit) Beginning at a Spanish Oak standing near Fishpond Creek on the west side and running thence new lines south thirty five degrees west three hundred vialy for poles to a pine south thirty five degrees east one hundred forty two poles crossing the county road to a pine north sialy for degrees east one hundred seveny six poles crossing a branch several times and Fishpond Creek to pointers near the road thense north sixteen degrees west one hundred and four poles crossing the road to pointers thence north two hundred thirty four poles crossing the creek several times to the first station, with all to have hold to be held yielding and paying provided in witness. Witness our trusty and welbeloved Francis Fauquier Esquire our Lieutenant Governor and Commander in Chief of our said Colony and Dominion at Williamsburgh under the seal of our said colony the fifteenth day of July One thousand seven hundred and sixty in the thirty fourth year of our reign.
Fran Fauquier
Using the descrition above, there is only one location where Fishpond Creek runs south, and that
intersects
with "the old Richmond Road." This property can be seen by
turning off Highway 24 and going toward the Buckingham-Appomattox
State
Forest. The picture to the right, of "Moses Helm's property"
on Fishpond Creek, is as it looked in 2010. There is an old road-bed on the south side of the current paved road.1767
March 10, 1767 Bedford County Surveyors Record Book 1 page 93, and Surveyors Record Book 2 page 91: Moses Helm had forty acres north of Pilot Mountain, ajoining his property purchased from Leerwood surveyed. This property is not recorded until it is received as a grant, signed by Thomas Jefferson on September 1, 1780.
March 19, 1767
Surveyed for Moses
Helm 40 Acres Land situated in
Bedford County on the North side of the Pilot Mountain, and Bounded
as
followeth, viz, Beginning at his own Corner Spanish Oak on Watken's
Line, at A, thence from A to B along Watken's Line S28E, 24 Poles to
a
shrub white Oak; on his line B to C, off, N67E, 58 Poles to a small
Red
Oak: C to D, S78E, 44 Poles to a Red Oak: D to E, N60E, 48 Poles to
a
double Red Oak: E to F, N23E, 80 Poles to a Black Jack on an Ivy
hill;
F to G, N42E 30 Poles to Pointers on his own line: thence along own
Lines, G to H, N23@, 24 Poles to his Corner Hicory: H to I, S70W, 80
Poles to his Corner white Oak; I to K, N80W, 140 Poles to his Corner
white Oak: and K to A, S15W, 40 Poles to the first Station. By
Richard
Stith Sur.
1773-1774 Dunmores War
1776-1782 American Revolution:
Moses Helms two sons, and three son-in-laws served as officers during the revolutionary war:
1. Son:
Captain
Thomas Helm,
served in Virginia, South Carolina and
North Carolina from 1777 through 1781; he died as result of wounds
received during the battle at
Guilford Courthouse. Multiple pension applications by those who served in the battle, and the book Long Obstinate
and Bloody support Thomas rank as a Captain in the Battle of Guilford Courthouse and his death as a result of wounds received during the battle.
2. Son: Lt John Helm, was a Second Lt Bedford militia;
3. Son-in-law: Lt Alexander Steel, married to Elizabeth Helm (Virginia Militia Part 3 p 188: First Lt, S Nov 22 1779);
4. Son-in-law: Captain James Dixon, married to Susannah Helm, was wounded in the battle of Guilford Court House (per Long Obstinate and Bloody);
5. Son-in-law: Lt James Dinwiddie, married to Sarah Jameson Helm: (John Pribble pension S5951 states he served under Capt Thos Helm, Lieutenant James Dinwiddie, and Ensign John Steele. It is not known if Ensign John Steele is related to the Helm family.
2. Son: Lt John Helm, was a Second Lt Bedford militia;
3. Son-in-law: Lt Alexander Steel, married to Elizabeth Helm (Virginia Militia Part 3 p 188: First Lt, S Nov 22 1779);
4. Son-in-law: Captain James Dixon, married to Susannah Helm, was wounded in the battle of Guilford Court House (per Long Obstinate and Bloody);
5. Son-in-law: Lt James Dinwiddie, married to Sarah Jameson Helm: (John Pribble pension S5951 states he served under Capt Thos Helm, Lieutenant James Dinwiddie, and Ensign John Steele. It is not known if Ensign John Steele is related to the Helm family.
1780
September 1, 1780, page 357:
Moses Helm had 40 acres surveyed in 1767, to begin the process of obtaining the land grant that is completed and signed in 1780.
This property adjoins property to the north that Moses purchased from Thomas Leerwood in 1757. And it adjoins property to the south Captain Thomas Helm received by grant in 1780, which includes Pilot Mountain.
Most of the property lines established in the Thomas Leerwood grant in 1757, and the Moses Helm survey in 1767, are still is use today and visable by satellite.
To the right is a photo of the old chimney, estimated circa mid 1700's to early 1800's and the probable location of Moses Helms home, in what is now in Campbell County Virginia.
Moses Helm 1
September 1780; 40
acres on the north side of Pilot
Mountain
Thomas Jefferson Esquire Governor of the Commonwealth of Virginia to all to whom these presents shall come greeting know ye that in consideration of the ancient composition of five shillings sterling paid into the treasury of this commonwealth Moses Helm there is granted by the said commonwealth unto the said Moses Helm a certain tract or parcel of land containing forty acres by survey bearing date the ninteenth day of March one thousand seven hundred and sixty seven lying and being in the county of Bedford on and upon the north side of the Pilot Mountain and bounded as followeth to wit Beginning at his own corner Spanish Oak on Walthens line thence along Walhens line south twenty eight degrees East twenty fourd poles to a shrub white oak thense off north sixty seven degrees east fifty eight poles to a small red oak south seventy eight degrees east forty four poles to a red oak north sixty degrees east forty eight poles to a double red oak north eighty three degrees east eighty poles to a black jack upon an ivy hill north forty two degrees east thirty poles to pointers on his own line thense along his lines north eighty three degrees west twenty four poles to his corner hickory south seventy degrees west eighty poles to his own corner white oak north eighty degrees west one hundred and forty poles to his corner white oak and south fifteen degree west forty poles to the first station with its appertenances; to have and to hold the said tract or parcel of land with its appartenances to the said Moses Helm and his heirs forever. In witness where of the said Thomas Jefferson Governor of the Commonwealth of Virginia hath hereunto set his hand and cause the seal of the said Commonwealth to be affixed at Richmond on the first day of September in the year of our Lord One Thousand seven hundred and eighty and of the Commonwealth the fifth. Thomas Jefferson
Thomas Jefferson Esquire Governor of the Commonwealth of Virginia to all to whom these presents shall come greeting know ye that in consideration of the ancient composition of five shillings sterling paid into the treasury of this commonwealth Moses Helm there is granted by the said commonwealth unto the said Moses Helm a certain tract or parcel of land containing forty acres by survey bearing date the ninteenth day of March one thousand seven hundred and sixty seven lying and being in the county of Bedford on and upon the north side of the Pilot Mountain and bounded as followeth to wit Beginning at his own corner Spanish Oak on Walthens line thence along Walhens line south twenty eight degrees East twenty fourd poles to a shrub white oak thense off north sixty seven degrees east fifty eight poles to a small red oak south seventy eight degrees east forty four poles to a red oak north sixty degrees east forty eight poles to a double red oak north eighty three degrees east eighty poles to a black jack upon an ivy hill north forty two degrees east thirty poles to pointers on his own line thense along his lines north eighty three degrees west twenty four poles to his corner hickory south seventy degrees west eighty poles to his own corner white oak north eighty degrees west one hundred and forty poles to his corner white oak and south fifteen degree west forty poles to the first station with its appertenances; to have and to hold the said tract or parcel of land with its appartenances to the said Moses Helm and his heirs forever. In witness where of the said Thomas Jefferson Governor of the Commonwealth of Virginia hath hereunto set his hand and cause the seal of the said Commonwealth to be affixed at Richmond on the first day of September in the year of our Lord One Thousand seven hundred and eighty and of the Commonwealth the fifth. Thomas Jefferson
1781 Moses Helm and other family members signed the petition to divide Bedford County and establish Campbell County by dividing Beford County.
1781 or 1782
Moses died sometime after signing the petition in 1781, and before John and Sarah paid the taxes in 1782.
There is a "letter" that claims Moses died sometime after 1804. The letter claims his grandson James, returning from Tennessee learned Moses had not returned home after walking north. There are problems with this letter including Moses grandson did not leave Virginia until after James bought and sold property previously owned by Moses and Moses son John, and James did not move to Tennessee until 1818, thirty-six years after Moses death.
1782
Bedford County was divided, and the Helm properties near Pilot Mountain became part of Campbell County.
John Helm and Sarah Helm paid taxes on the property in 1782. John, being the eldest son inherited two-thirds of Moses property, and Sarah has received the widows dowery, one-third of Moses property during the remainder of her lifetime.
The property taxes paid by John and Sarah are 2/3 and 1/3 respectively, until John sells his two-thirds of the property.
Sarah continued paying taxes on the one-third she received. The location of that property has not been verified except being on "Falling."
Because John had sold all Moses property we know about means there is another piece of property that has not been located.
1789
John Helm sold 300 acres in Buckingham County Virginia to Edward Petteson. This property is the 300 acres Moses Helm obtained by grant in 1760, as that property was at the time in Buckingham County and would later become part of Appomattox County.
1800
John Helm sold 194 acres on the headwaters of Reedy Creek to his nephew James Helm. This included the 154 acres Moses Helm purchased from Thomas Leerwood in 1757, and the 40 acres property surveyed in 1767 and granted in 1780.
Helm to Helm,
1800,
194 Acres
This Indenture made this thirteenth Day of May in the year of our Lord Christ one thousand and eight hundred between John Helm and Mary Helm his wife of the one part of the County of Campbell and common wealth of Virginia and James Helm of the said County and common wealth of the other part, Witnesseth that the said John Helm and Mary his wife for and in consideration of the sum of two hundred dollars current money of Virginia to them in hand paid by the said James Helm the receipt thereof they do hereby acknowledge and therefore hath given granted bargained and sold aliened enfeoffed and confirmed and by these presents doth grant bagain and sell alien enfeoff and confirm unto the said James Helm his heirs and asigns forever one certain Tract or parcel of land lying and being in the County of Campbell aforesaid on the head branches of Reedy creek containing one hundred and ninty four acres be the same more or less one hundred and fifty four acres of which land was purchased of Thomas Leerwood by Moses Helm in the year one thousand seven hundred and fifty seven The other forty acres was an Entry made by the said Moses Helm adjoining the aforesaid Tract for which a patent or grant Issued to him for the same from the secretarys office bearing date the first day of September in the year one thousand seven hundred and eighty the aforesaid one hundred and ninty four acres of land being baounded as follows to wit, Beginning at a place formerly known to be Watkens Corner pointers on beards old path thence New lines North sixty five degrees East one hundred and thirty four poles to a hickory North Eighty five degrees East seventy four poles to a hickory North sixty five degrees East thirty six poles to a white oak North fifteen Degrees East thirty poles to a white oak South sixty five degrees East one hundred and twenty poles to three white oaks south twenty Degrees East fourty four Poles to a chesnut South seventy five degrees West seventy six poles to a white oak North eighty three degrees West fourteen poles to pointers & it being the place where the line of the entry of forty acres intersects the lines of the old survey thence along the line of the Entry South forty two Degrees West thirty poles is a black Jack on Ivy hill thence southeighty three degrees West eighty poles to a double red oak thence south sixty degrees West forty eight poles to a red oak thence North seventy eight degrees West fourty four poles to a small red oak Thence south sixty seven degrees West fifty eight poles to a shrub white oak on Watkens old line thence north twenty eight degrees West twenty four poles to a Spanish oak. And thence along his line North twenty eight degrees West fifty four poles to the first Station Together with all houses orchards gardens fences waters and water courses wasys woods and under woods profits commoditys advantages and all other appertenances whatsoever to the same belonging or in any wise appertaining To have and to Hold the aforesaid One hundred and ninty four acres of land together with the aforesaid Recited Prenises and every part and parcil thereof with their and ever every of - their appurtenances unto the said James Helm his heirs and assigns forever and the said John Helm and Mary his wife for themselves their heirs Executors and administraters doth covenant and agree to and with the said James Helm his heirs and assigns that they the said John Helm and Mary his wife their heirs & the above mentioned lands and premises with their and every of their appurtenances unto the said James Helm his heirs and assigns for ever To the only proper us and behoof of him the said James Helm and of his heirs forever against him and them the said John Helm and Mary his wife their heirs Executors and Administrators and against all other persons whatsoever shall and will warrant and for ever by these presents defend. In witness whereof the said John Helm and Mary his wife hath here unto set their hands and affixed their seals the days and year first mentioned above written~ Signed sealed and delivered John Helm Mary Helm In the Presnece of At A Court Held for Campbell County June 9th 1800 This Indenture was acknowledged by John Helm and Mary his wife she having been first privily examined according to Law and Ordered to be Recorded Teste Ro Alexander CCC mailed [Mss] RB Clayton
This Indenture made this thirteenth Day of May in the year of our Lord Christ one thousand and eight hundred between John Helm and Mary Helm his wife of the one part of the County of Campbell and common wealth of Virginia and James Helm of the said County and common wealth of the other part, Witnesseth that the said John Helm and Mary his wife for and in consideration of the sum of two hundred dollars current money of Virginia to them in hand paid by the said James Helm the receipt thereof they do hereby acknowledge and therefore hath given granted bargained and sold aliened enfeoffed and confirmed and by these presents doth grant bagain and sell alien enfeoff and confirm unto the said James Helm his heirs and asigns forever one certain Tract or parcel of land lying and being in the County of Campbell aforesaid on the head branches of Reedy creek containing one hundred and ninty four acres be the same more or less one hundred and fifty four acres of which land was purchased of Thomas Leerwood by Moses Helm in the year one thousand seven hundred and fifty seven The other forty acres was an Entry made by the said Moses Helm adjoining the aforesaid Tract for which a patent or grant Issued to him for the same from the secretarys office bearing date the first day of September in the year one thousand seven hundred and eighty the aforesaid one hundred and ninty four acres of land being baounded as follows to wit, Beginning at a place formerly known to be Watkens Corner pointers on beards old path thence New lines North sixty five degrees East one hundred and thirty four poles to a hickory North Eighty five degrees East seventy four poles to a hickory North sixty five degrees East thirty six poles to a white oak North fifteen Degrees East thirty poles to a white oak South sixty five degrees East one hundred and twenty poles to three white oaks south twenty Degrees East fourty four Poles to a chesnut South seventy five degrees West seventy six poles to a white oak North eighty three degrees West fourteen poles to pointers & it being the place where the line of the entry of forty acres intersects the lines of the old survey thence along the line of the Entry South forty two Degrees West thirty poles is a black Jack on Ivy hill thence southeighty three degrees West eighty poles to a double red oak thence south sixty degrees West forty eight poles to a red oak thence North seventy eight degrees West fourty four poles to a small red oak Thence south sixty seven degrees West fifty eight poles to a shrub white oak on Watkens old line thence north twenty eight degrees West twenty four poles to a Spanish oak. And thence along his line North twenty eight degrees West fifty four poles to the first Station Together with all houses orchards gardens fences waters and water courses wasys woods and under woods profits commoditys advantages and all other appertenances whatsoever to the same belonging or in any wise appertaining To have and to Hold the aforesaid One hundred and ninty four acres of land together with the aforesaid Recited Prenises and every part and parcil thereof with their and ever every of - their appurtenances unto the said James Helm his heirs and assigns forever and the said John Helm and Mary his wife for themselves their heirs Executors and administraters doth covenant and agree to and with the said James Helm his heirs and assigns that they the said John Helm and Mary his wife their heirs & the above mentioned lands and premises with their and every of their appurtenances unto the said James Helm his heirs and assigns for ever To the only proper us and behoof of him the said James Helm and of his heirs forever against him and them the said John Helm and Mary his wife their heirs Executors and Administrators and against all other persons whatsoever shall and will warrant and for ever by these presents defend. In witness whereof the said John Helm and Mary his wife hath here unto set their hands and affixed their seals the days and year first mentioned above written~ Signed sealed and delivered John Helm Mary Helm In the Presnece of At A Court Held for Campbell County June 9th 1800 This Indenture was acknowledged by John Helm and Mary his wife she having been first privily examined according to Law and Ordered to be Recorded Teste Ro Alexander CCC mailed [Mss] RB Clayton
1801
James and Sarah Helm divided and sold part of this property to James aunt Jane or Jean, Johns sister. Jane never married and after her death, her brothers and sisters, nephews and nieces are listed in the settlement of her estate.
Helm to Helm,
1801,
60 Acres
This Indenture made this eighth day of October in the year of our Lord Christ one thousand eight hundred and one Between James Helm and Sarah Helm his wife of the County of Campbell of the one part and Jane Helm of the said County and state of the other part Witnesseth that the said James Helm and Sarah his wife for and in consideration of the Sum Thirty Six pounds current money of Virginia to them in hand paid by the said Jane helm the receipt thereof they hereby acknowledge and also that they hath given granted bargained sold aliened enfeoffed and confirmed and by these present doth grant bargain sell alien enfeoff and confirm unto the said Jane Helm and heirs and asigns for ever one certain Tract or parcel of Land lying and being in the County of Campbell aforesaid on the head branches of reedy creek containing about sixty acres be the same more of less and bounded as follows to wit, Beginning at a black oak and post oak on or near the line which divides the lands of said James Helm and David Ross then running by a line made and agreed on between said James Helm and Sarah his wife on the one part and and the aforesaid Jean Helm on the other part running about south Twenty or thirty degrees East by several marked Trees to an old field then through the old field nearly the same course to a hickory Tree at the fork of a branch then up the most easterly branch of the bra on the east Side nearly a South course by marked trees to a large Gum near James Robertsons line and so on until it intersects the said line and then to follow the lines of the said James Helm around on the West side of the said divideing line to the first Station so as to Include all that part of his Tract of land which lyes on the west side of the dividing line aforesaid at the west end of his plantation together with all houses orchards gardens finces waters and water courses ways woods and underwoods profits commodities advantages and all other appertenances whatsoever to the same belonging or in any wise appertaining To have and to Hold the aforesaid Tract or parcel of land together with the before recited pronises and every part and parcel therof with their and every of their appurtenances unto the said Jean Helm her heirs and asigns forever and the said James Helm and Sarah his wife for thenselves their heirs Executors administrators & doth covenant to and with the said Jane Helm her heirs and asigns that they the said James Helm and Sarah his wife and their heirs &c the above mentioned lands and premiseis with their and every of their appurtenances unto the said Jane Helm her heirs and assigns forever to the only proper use and heoof of her the said Jane Helm and of her heirs forever against him and them the said James Helm and Sarah his wife their heirs executors and administrators and against all other persons whatsoever shall and will warrant and forever by these presents defend [ ] whereof the said James Helm and Sarah his wife hath hereunto set their hands and affixed their seals the day and year first above written James Helm Sarah x Helm her mark At a Court held for Campbell County October 12th 1801 This Indenture was acknowledged by James Helm and Sarah his wife she having been first privily examined according to law and ordered to be Recorded Teste Re Alexander CCC
This Indenture made this eighth day of October in the year of our Lord Christ one thousand eight hundred and one Between James Helm and Sarah Helm his wife of the County of Campbell of the one part and Jane Helm of the said County and state of the other part Witnesseth that the said James Helm and Sarah his wife for and in consideration of the Sum Thirty Six pounds current money of Virginia to them in hand paid by the said Jane helm the receipt thereof they hereby acknowledge and also that they hath given granted bargained sold aliened enfeoffed and confirmed and by these present doth grant bargain sell alien enfeoff and confirm unto the said Jane Helm and heirs and asigns for ever one certain Tract or parcel of Land lying and being in the County of Campbell aforesaid on the head branches of reedy creek containing about sixty acres be the same more of less and bounded as follows to wit, Beginning at a black oak and post oak on or near the line which divides the lands of said James Helm and David Ross then running by a line made and agreed on between said James Helm and Sarah his wife on the one part and and the aforesaid Jean Helm on the other part running about south Twenty or thirty degrees East by several marked Trees to an old field then through the old field nearly the same course to a hickory Tree at the fork of a branch then up the most easterly branch of the bra on the east Side nearly a South course by marked trees to a large Gum near James Robertsons line and so on until it intersects the said line and then to follow the lines of the said James Helm around on the West side of the said divideing line to the first Station so as to Include all that part of his Tract of land which lyes on the west side of the dividing line aforesaid at the west end of his plantation together with all houses orchards gardens finces waters and water courses ways woods and underwoods profits commodities advantages and all other appertenances whatsoever to the same belonging or in any wise appertaining To have and to Hold the aforesaid Tract or parcel of land together with the before recited pronises and every part and parcel therof with their and every of their appurtenances unto the said Jean Helm her heirs and asigns forever and the said James Helm and Sarah his wife for thenselves their heirs Executors administrators & doth covenant to and with the said Jane Helm her heirs and asigns that they the said James Helm and Sarah his wife and their heirs &c the above mentioned lands and premiseis with their and every of their appurtenances unto the said Jane Helm her heirs and assigns forever to the only proper use and heoof of her the said Jane Helm and of her heirs forever against him and them the said James Helm and Sarah his wife their heirs executors and administrators and against all other persons whatsoever shall and will warrant and forever by these presents defend [ ] whereof the said James Helm and Sarah his wife hath hereunto set their hands and affixed their seals the day and year first above written James Helm Sarah x Helm her mark At a Court held for Campbell County October 12th 1801 This Indenture was acknowledged by James Helm and Sarah his wife she having been first privily examined according to law and ordered to be Recorded Teste Re Alexander CCC
1802
James and Sarah Helm sold the remainder of the property to Thomas Gordon. Though in some disrepair, an old log cabin hewn with a broad axe and a chimney made of hand-made bricks, is still in use on this piece of the property.
Helm to
Gordon,
1802, 135 Acres
This Indenture made this ninteenth day of June in the year of our Lord Christ one thousand eight hundred and two between James Helm and Sarah Helm his wife of the County of Campbell and State of Virginia of the one part [ ] Thomas Gordon of hte County of Prince Edward and State afore[ ] of the other part Witnesseth that the said James Helm and Sarah his wife for and in consideration of the sum one hundred and twenty pounds Virginia money to them in hand paid by the said Thomas Gordon the receipt whereof they do hereby acknowledge and therefore hath given granted bargained sold aline accfeofed and confirmed and by these presents do grant bargain sell alien enfioff and confirm unto the said Thomas Gorden his heirs and asigns forever one certain Tract or parcel of land lying and being in the County of Campbell on the head brances of Reedy Creek containing one hundred and thirty five acres be the same more or less and bounded as followeth to wit, Beginning at a black Jack on Ivy hill it being a corner tree of a tract of land of Forty acres which was Surveyed for Moses Helum Surv the nineteenth day of March one thousand seven hundred and sixty seven running thence South eight Degrees West eighty poles to another corner of the above mentioned Survey of land which corner was a double red oak but is distroyed thence South fifty seven degrees West thirty one poles to Jean Helm line thence along her line North five degrees West Sixty Six poles to a corner hickory at the fork of a branch then north forty degrees north fourth degrees West fifty three poles to a new corner then north sixty one degrees East along the line of Helms old Survey ten poles to where there stood a corner hickory but is destroyed thence north eighty one degrees East Seventy four poles to a corner hickory on the same old line but is destroyed and thence north eleven degrees East thirty poles to where there stood a corner white oak that is destroyed then South Sixty nine degrees East one hundred and twenty two poles to three corner white oaks then South twenty four degrees East fourty six poles to a corner chesnut then South Seventy one degrees West eighty poles to a corner white oak then north eighty seven degrees West forteen poles to pointers on same old line at the place where ^the line of Helms survey of fourty acres Intersects the other thence off along the line of the new survey of forty acres South thirty nine degrees West thirty two poles to the first Station ... Signed Sealed and delivered James Helm Sarah + Helm her mark In the presnce of Zachariah Hargrove William Hargrove Wm Hargrove At a Court held for Campbell County October 11, 1802 This Indenture was acknowledged by James Helm and Sarah his wife she having been first privily examined according to law and ordered to be Recorded Teste Ro Alexander CCC
This Indenture made this ninteenth day of June in the year of our Lord Christ one thousand eight hundred and two between James Helm and Sarah Helm his wife of the County of Campbell and State of Virginia of the one part [ ] Thomas Gordon of hte County of Prince Edward and State afore[ ] of the other part Witnesseth that the said James Helm and Sarah his wife for and in consideration of the sum one hundred and twenty pounds Virginia money to them in hand paid by the said Thomas Gordon the receipt whereof they do hereby acknowledge and therefore hath given granted bargained sold aline accfeofed and confirmed and by these presents do grant bargain sell alien enfioff and confirm unto the said Thomas Gorden his heirs and asigns forever one certain Tract or parcel of land lying and being in the County of Campbell on the head brances of Reedy Creek containing one hundred and thirty five acres be the same more or less and bounded as followeth to wit, Beginning at a black Jack on Ivy hill it being a corner tree of a tract of land of Forty acres which was Surveyed for Moses Helum Surv the nineteenth day of March one thousand seven hundred and sixty seven running thence South eight Degrees West eighty poles to another corner of the above mentioned Survey of land which corner was a double red oak but is distroyed thence South fifty seven degrees West thirty one poles to Jean Helm line thence along her line North five degrees West Sixty Six poles to a corner hickory at the fork of a branch then north forty degrees north fourth degrees West fifty three poles to a new corner then north sixty one degrees East along the line of Helms old Survey ten poles to where there stood a corner hickory but is destroyed thence north eighty one degrees East Seventy four poles to a corner hickory on the same old line but is destroyed and thence north eleven degrees East thirty poles to where there stood a corner white oak that is destroyed then South Sixty nine degrees East one hundred and twenty two poles to three corner white oaks then South twenty four degrees East fourty six poles to a corner chesnut then South Seventy one degrees West eighty poles to a corner white oak then north eighty seven degrees West forteen poles to pointers on same old line at the place where ^the line of Helms survey of fourty acres Intersects the other thence off along the line of the new survey of forty acres South thirty nine degrees West thirty two poles to the first Station ... Signed Sealed and delivered James Helm Sarah + Helm her mark In the presnce of Zachariah Hargrove William Hargrove Wm Hargrove At a Court held for Campbell County October 11, 1802 This Indenture was acknowledged by James Helm and Sarah his wife she having been first privily examined according to law and ordered to be Recorded Teste Ro Alexander CCC
1803
Sarah Helm paid taxes on her one-third, her "widows dowry" until 1803.
1804
Sarah died sometime after paying her taxes in 1803 and when John paid the taxes in 1804.
The property Sarah Helm had been paying taxes on as her "widows dowry" revert to being part of Moses Helms estate and is inherited by Moses eldest son, John Helm. This property is later listed in the tax records as being on Falling [River].
While no proof exists, or has been found to show this was Moses Helm third property, it is my suspicion that it is.
And there is another later reference to one neighbor, after the Civil War, willing "old Helm Home Place" to his daughter. Was this Moses, Johns or Williams home place?
1825
In the settlement of Jean Helms estate the courts provide lists of her living and deceased brothers and sisters, nephews and nieces, and instructs her 60 Acres are to be sold by public auction.
November 2010
I do express my appreciation to my parents, Grant and Virginia Helm for their many years of research which has provided the foundation for my research, and to the current property owners for their time and hospitality by allowing me the privilege of visiting them on their farm. They were able to confirm their property lines, currently in use, are exactly those used in both the Leerwood and Helm land grants. It is amazing, after so many years the property lines are the same lines used by our ancestors, and a great privilege to walk where so many years ago, our ancestors created a farm on what was at that time "the western frontier of Virginia."
Quotes:
Bedford County Court Book 1 page 23
Virginia Department of Transportation, Histories of Roads in Virginia, LUNENBURG COUNTY ROAD ORDERS 1746-1764; pdf 93-r17
Virginia Department of Transportation, Histories of Roads in Virginia, Albemarle COUNTY ROAD ORDERS
Virginia Library Website, description of who were tithables
Breaking the Backcountry: The Seven Years War in Virginia and Pennsylvania, 1754 – 1765; Matthew C. Ward, University of Pittsburg Press, Pittsburg, PA 15260, 2003, page 71.
Ibid, page 148
Ibid, page 166
Ibid, pages 195-196
Ibid, page 199
Lunenburg County Virginia, Thomas Leerwood
Bedford Deed Book 1 pp 139-142
Bedford County Surveyors Record Book 1 page 93, and Surveyors Record Book 2 page 91
Campbell County Deed Books and Tax Records
Bedford County Court Book 1 page 23
Virginia Department of Transportation, Histories of Roads in Virginia, LUNENBURG COUNTY ROAD ORDERS 1746-1764; pdf 93-r17
Virginia Department of Transportation, Histories of Roads in Virginia, Albemarle COUNTY ROAD ORDERS
Virginia Library Website, description of who were tithables
Breaking the Backcountry: The Seven Years War in Virginia and Pennsylvania, 1754 – 1765; Matthew C. Ward, University of Pittsburg Press, Pittsburg, PA 15260, 2003, page 71.
Ibid, page 148
Ibid, page 166
Ibid, pages 195-196
Ibid, page 199
Lunenburg County Virginia, Thomas Leerwood
Bedford Deed Book 1 pp 139-142
Bedford County Surveyors Record Book 1 page 93, and Surveyors Record Book 2 page 91
Campbell County Deed Books and Tax Records