Eddyville Trustees 1806

The following document was found among the loose county court papers in the Livingston County Clerk’s Office a number of years ago.  Eddyville was located in Livingston County at that time and remained  there until 1809 when it was located in the new county of Caldwell.  By 1854, Lyon County  had been created from Caldwell County and Eddyville was then located in Lyon County.

Many times information of this sort was recorded in the county court order books (court minutes), but this document was not recorded there. As far as I can determine, it is found only in the loose county clerk papers.

 

Click on document for an enlarged view

“As a Meeting of the lot holders and residents of the Town of Eddyville the following Gentlemen on the first Monday in August 1806 were duly Elected Trustees for said Town and took the oath accordingly Gideon D. Cobb, Samuel C. Clarke, Elijah G. Galusha, Moses Timmons, Blake Baker Esqrs.

                                                                      Attest  Jacob E. Faller  C.L.C., Eddyville August 4  1806"

 Published 24 Nov 2023, Western Kentucky Genealogy Blog, http://wkygenealogy.blogspot.com/

Return of Slaves 1845

Recently I came across the flollowing document and thought it might be of interest to others. It was found in Livingston County Deed Book HH, page 95, and is dated February 1845.

"Mrs. Ellender Burgess widdow of Dempsey Burgess dec'd under the Act of Assembly of the Kentucky Legislature approved March 2d 1844 relative to the rights of [illegible] would here return to the Livingston County Court Clerk's Office, the county in which I reside, That I hold a life estate on the following Slaves and have them in possession, Towit:

"Esther, a woman, aged thirty four years yellow complexion, Mary, a woman aged Thirty Two years, rather dark Complexion, Warren, a man aged Twenty Nine years, very dark skin, Lewis, a Boy aged fourteen years, yellow, Isabel, a Girl aged fourteen years, yellow, Peter a boy aged Thirteen years Black, Joe a Boy aged Twelve years Black, Rachel a Girl aged Eleven years black, Henry a Boy aged Nine years light, Mary Elizabeth a Girl aged Seven years dark, George a Boy aged Seven years black, Dempsey a Boy aged Two years Yellow, Abram a Boy aged one year light - all belonging to the Estate of said Dempsey Burgess dec'd. Witness my hand this [blank} day of February 1845. [signed] Ellender (X her mark) Burgess. Witness Test: J.E. Smullen, Test: Sharrad Barron.

James L. Dallam, Clerk of Livingston County Court, certifies that the foregoing Return of Slaves by Mrs. Ellender Burgess was on this day filed in his office and ordered to be recorded. 20 March 1845 [signed] James L. Dallam."

Published 15 March 2023, Western Kentucky Genealogy Blog, http://wkygenealogy.blogspot.com/

Livingston County, KY African American Marriages 1875 - 1876

 Marriages for African American couples for 1875 and 1876 are found in Livingston County Marriage Register for Freedmen 1866-1896 and Bond Book 1A, Livingston County Clerk's Office. For best results, please check for sources.

The following abbreviations are used:  Wit:  Witnesses;    B:  Bondsman;    Reg:  Register.   BB1A:  Bond Book 1A  The abbreviations and numbers at the end of each entry refer to the book and the page numbers. For example, Reg: 40-41 refers to Register, pages 40 and 41 and BB1A:197 refers to Bond Book 1A, page 197.

Lewis Nelson and Huldah Duley married 14 Jan 1875 at Nelson Hibbs. Wit: Ned Hibbs, Nelson Hibbs, David Duly, [signed] Jas. M. Duley, M.G. [Reg:40-41] B: David Duley [BB1A:197]

Alexander Anderson and Evaline Johnson were married 21 Jan 1875 at S.W. Eves residence.  Wit: John Hodge, Richmond Stanley. [signed] S.W. Eves, M.G. [Reg:40-41] B: Jerry Johnson [BB1A:199]

Amos Smith and Rebecca Dooms were married 23 May 1875 at the residence of Geo. Dooms. Wit: Henry Green, Columbus Noland. [signed] Rev. H. Gibson.  [Reg:40-41] B: Thomas George [BB1A:201]

Anthony Shelby and Lucy Rorer  were married 18 Sep 1875 at Benjamin Miles. Witnesses: Joseph Elkins, Henry Grissom, Thos. Turley. [signed] William Grissom, M.B.C.  [Reg: 42-43] B: Joseph Elkins [BB1A:203]

Charles Barnett and Belle Preston were married 17 Oct 1875 at Clifford Dooms. Wit: C. Dooms, H. Brown. [signed] Rev. H. Gibson. [Reg: 42-43] B: Rev. H. Gibson [BB1A:205]

William Barnett and Annie Crawford married 4 Nov 1875 at Susan Crawfords. Wit: Peter Barnett, Thos. Barnett and others. [signed] Lank (x his mark) Grissom [Reg: 42-43] B: John Wilson [BB1A: 207]

David Duley and Harriet Davis married 20 May 1876 at J.T. Boyds. Wit: James Gray, Sally Woodyard. [Signed] J.T. Boyd, J.P.  [Reg: 42-43] B: James Gray [BB1A:209]

James Gray and Sallie Davis married 9 Jun 1876 at Quincy Alsobrooks.  Wit: N.H. Bigham, Quincy Alsobrook. [signed] J.K. Huey, County Judge.  [Reg: 42-43] B: David Duley [BB1A:211]

Isaac Bozark and Margaret Taylor married 7 Nov 1876  at James Taylors. Wit: James Taylor, Henry Moore. [signed] John Davis, M.G.  [Reg: 44-45] B: Henry Moore. Groom also listed as Isaac Bosharch. [BB1A:213]

Silas Taylor and Miss Clara Marshall married 16 Nov 1876 at the Church in Smithland. Wit: Charles Reed, Miss Clara Hughes. [signed] Anthony Walker, M.G.  [Reg: 44-45] B: Charles Reed  [BB1A:215]

Mathew Crawford and Mrs. Mariah Sanders married 30 Nov 1876 at Barbara Woods Smithland. [signed]  Anthony Walker, Minister M.E. Ch. Wit: Dave Miles, Louisa Hughes, Newton Baker. [Reg: 44-45].  B: John Curley [BB1A: 217]

Jerry Johnson and Miss Nancy Anderson married 24 Dec 1876 at the bride’s residence. Wit: John Weaver, Alexr. Bellamy. [signed] S.W. Eves, M.G.  [Reg: 44-45] B: Nathan Sales  [BB1A:219]

Last issue of the Western Kentucky Genealogy Blog will be 18 Nov 2021

Published 11 Nov 2021  Western Kentucky Genealogy Blog, http://wkygenealogy.blogspot.com/

 

 

No Shopping on Sunday in Smithland 1885

Wikipedia tells us that Blue laws or Sunday laws were designed to restrict or ban some or all Sunday activities for religious or secular reasons. Some Blue laws also restricted shopping on specific days. The following notice was posted in a conspicuous place on Court street in Smithland according to the Sentinel, a newspaper published in Smithland. It was re-printed in the Hickman, Kentucky Courier on 3 Oct 1884, page 5, according to Newspapers.com

NOTICE

To the merchants in the Town of Smithland, Ky.:   You are hereby notified that after this date any dealer or dealers in merchandise or groceries that is found guilty of keeping open doors or selling goods or groceries on the Sabbath day, will be reported to the Grand Jury at the next term of court, unless in case of sickness or death, and if you do not heed this notice,  you will after January, 1885.  For it is a shame for any man that is raising a family to teach them such, or set such an example.  If you do not believe that there is a hereafter, for the people’s sake have respect for the day; for there are people in this town that do believe that there is a God and a hereafter, too.  Now remember the above notice for there is a law to protect us, and we intend having it carried out to the letter.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                        A Law Abiding Citizen

 Published 21 Oct 2021, Western Kentucky Genealogy Blog, http://wkygenealogy.blogspot.com/

Livingston County, Kentucky Agreement 1805

The following document is filed in Livingston County Circuit Court Miscellaneous Papers (Agreements), Accession #1986-293, Box 2, 1820-1830 at the Kentucky Dept for Libraries and Archives, Frankfort, Kentucky. 

Articles of Agreement between Sally Parker and David McClanahan … Witnesseth that McClanahan has rented from this time until the first day of January next a plantation lying on the Eddy Creek of the sd. Sally Parker for which he is to pay her Ten bushels per acre for all [illegible] the cleared land on sd. place that is in repair and fit for cultivation and to deliver sd. place at the time above specified in the same repair that it is at present and to pay the rent at the customary time of gathering corn in the fall.  22 February 1805.  [signed] Sally Parker, David McClanahan.

 Published 9 Sep 2021, Western Kentucky Genealogy Blog,  http://wkygenealogy.blogspot.com/

Livingston County, Kentucky Emancipations 1848

Slaves in Kentucky were emancipated by their owner petitioning the county court or being set free through a provision in the owner’s last will and testament. To guarantee the former slave would not become a charge upon the county, a bond with security was signed by a responsible local citizen. The following emancipations are recorded in Livingston County Court Order Book K. The notation at the end of each entry lists the date of the deed of emancipation and the book and page number in the court order book. For example, 5 June 1848, OB K:23 signifies the record is found in Book K, page 23, 5 June 1848. Sec: refers to the security on the bond.

It appearing that Bazel late the slave of Wm. Jenkins dec’d was by Jenkins’ last Will & Testament emancipated and John Smith, administrator with will annexed assenting, ordered that clerk of this court issue to Bazel a certificate of his freedom upon giving bond with security in penalty of $500 that Bazel not become a charge upon any county in this commonwealth. Bond given with Henry F. Given as security. Bazel is of following description: aged 37 years, 5 feet 11 inches high, light mulatto color with a large scar on his right wrist occasioned by a burn.  [OB K:23]   5 June 1848.

A Deed of Emancipation from Levi Gordon (a free man of color) to his slave Harriet was produced in court and the clerk of court ordered to issue to Harriet a certificate of her freedom upon her giving bond with security in penalty of $500 conditioned that she shall not become a charge upon any county in this Commonwealth. Harriet is ascertained to be of the following description: aged 25 years, medium form, height 5 feet & ½ inches, dark mulatto color with 2 scars from a burn on her right arm & a scar on her right forefinger, also a small scar near the left eye.  Sec: Richd. Moore.  [OB K:24]   5 June 1848. 

Also, on 5 June 1848, Richard Moore of Livingston County, Kentucky presented to the county court deeds of emancipation for six slaves:  William, Lenoy, Homer, Philip, Augustus and Milton. Richard Moore signed security on the bond for each of the former slaves, stating that each person would receive a certificate of his freedom upon giving bond in the penalty of $500.  A physical description completed each entry in the county court order book. 

A Deed of Emancipation from Richard Moore to his slave William, who is aged 22 years, 5 feet 9 ½ inches high, light mulatto color, scar on his right knee which is somewhat stiff and of medium form.  [OB K:28] 5 June 1848

A deed of Emancipation from Richard Moore of Livingston County to his slave Lenoy, who is aged 17 years, 5 feet 9 inches high, of medium form and of light mulatto color. [OB K:28] 5 June 1848

A Deed of Emancipation from Richd. Moore to his slave Homer,[1] who is aged 20 years, 5 feet 8 ½ inches high, of medium form and light mulatto color & with a scar or lump on outside of his little finger, it having been a small finger taken off in infancy.  [OB K:29]  5 June 1848

A Deed of Emancipation from Richard Moore to his slave Philip, who is aged 19 years, height 6 feet, slender form, of light mulatto color and has a scar on the left hand near the root of his fore finger. [OB K:29]  5 June 1848

A Deed of Emancipation from Richard Moore to his slave Augustus, who is aged 13 years, height 5 feet, 2 inches, of medium form, of light mulatto color and no marks on his person. [OB K:30] 5 June 1848

A Deed of Emancipation from Richard Moore to his slave Milton, who is age 15, height 5 ½ feet high, medium form, of light mulatto color and a small scar on the back of his neck on the left hand side.  [OB K:30] 5 June 1848

Published 26 Aug 2021, Western Kentucky Genealogy Blog, http://wkygenealogy.blogspot.com/

 

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[1] 1850 Pope County, Illinois census, Roll 125, p. 265a, Ancestry.com.  Homer is the only former slave of Richard Moore who was located after being emancipated.

In the News - Smithland 1923

People loved to read about their friends and neighbors in the newspaper – where and with whom they were visiting, who was ill and who had recovered. Think of the recording of these local happenings as an early version of social media.  The following items appeared in the Paducah Sun-Democrat on Friday, 7 September 1923, page 3.

                                                          SMITHLAND

 J. Ned Worten in company with his aunt, Mrs. L.H. Adams and daughter, motored to Paducah last Friday.

Miss Maurine McMurray who has been visiting relatives here left Friday for Arlington, Ky., where she will visit relatives for a few days, after which she will return to her home in Memphis, Tenn.

There will be a box supper at the Groves Chapel school house next Saturday night. Proceeds of the supper will go for the benefit of this school.

On last Friday morning Dr. W.R. Gardner received an urgent call to the bedside of J.R. Clements of the Thompson Chapel section, and found him suffering from a strangulated hernia of the right side. He was rushed to the Riverside hospital, Paducah, where he was operated on and his condition relieved. The doctor reports his condition very satisfactory. Mr. Clements is 75 years of age and well known.

J.H. Vailes and family moved here from Wheatcroft last Wednesday and are now occupying the G.D. Scyster home on Court Street.

The Gum Spring revival meeting conducted by Rev. Sizemore for the past ten days closed last Wednesday night. He delivered quite a number of very interesting and instructive sermons, the result of which was five conversions and 7 additions to the church. The baptizing was held Thursday morning.

Bland Williamson and family of Blythesville, Ark., left last Thursday for their home after a short visit with his aunt, Mrs. L.A. Alsobrook, and family here.

Mrs. Velva Croft of Bowling Green spent Friday night here the guest of her parents, Dr. and Mrs. J.V. Bateman and family.

Miss Emma Lou Worten, who spent July and August in Colorado Springs with Judge Jesse J. Worten and family and Dr. Von Worten of Pawhuska, Okla., has gone to Oklahoma City for a visit with Mr. and Mrs. Lal D. Threlkeld. She will go to Norman the 15^th of September where she will be a student at the  University of Oklahoma.

Mrs. Harry Evertson, who has been visiting her father, J.N. Heater, of near Vicksburg, returned to her home in Carrsville last Tuesday.

Jess Hardin, who is attending the Agricultural School at Bowling Green, passed through here last Friday on his way to Hurricane to attend the camp meeting a few days.

Mr. Ray Howard and son returned home last Friday from Rosiclare, Ill., where they have been visiting friends and relatives for several days.

Published 17 Aug 2021, Western Kentucky Genealogy Blog, http://wkygenealogy.blogspot.com/

  

Death of John A. Gooch 1807

‘Murdered In Centreville the 7^th inst., Capt. John A. Gooch, of the above town, of a pistol ball shot by Robert Trimble. The amiable, generous and humane disposition of this young man, endeared him to every person of his acquaintance. He has left an amiable young widow. All of acquaintance laments his untimely death; and the citizens of Centreville and others of Livingston county, pledge themselves to make up and pay a reward of $200 to any person or persons who shall apprehend the said Robert Trimble and lodge him in any jail in the U. States, or that shall secure him so that he may be brought to punishment.

“Robert Trimble is a young man of about 5 feet 11 inches high, close set, straight and heavy made, about 23 or 24 years of age, he is regularly featured, but in general of a downcast look of his eyes and eyebrows, dark hair and dark eyes.  Livingston county, March 7: [signed] Hiram McDaniel, Enoch Prince, James Hawthorn, Robert Leeper, James Ritchey, Sen., David Kline, Joshua Scott, Jesse Ford, Robert McConnell, A. Gooch, Moses Shelby, Horatio Merry, Isaac Bullard, W. Armstrong, James Armstrong, James Deacon, Robert Hodge, George Brown.”[1]

William Trimble and Lewis Portee were taken into custody of David Kline, Jailor on the 24^th day of March 1807 on the charge of having, with Robert Trimble Junr. killed and murdered John Gooch, late Deputy Sheriff of Thomas Gist, late Sheriff of Livingston County, Kentucky. Grand Jurors were impannelled during the May term 1807 and charged that William and Robert Trimble and Lewis L. Portee, yeomen, “not having the fear of God before their eyes, but being moved & seduced by the Instigation of the Devil the 7^th day of March 1807 at the house of George Brown of Centreville” made an assault on the body of Gooch. Robert Trimble, with a pistol valued at $4.00, loaded with gun powder and a leaden bullet upon the right side of the belly of John A. Gooch did wound Gooch to the depth of six inches and breadth of one inch of which mortal wound Gooch did instantly die. William Trimble and Lewis L. Portee aided & helped Robert Trimble. The Jury found Lewis L. Portee Not Guilty and William Trimble was found Guilty of Manslaughter and adjudged him to be confined in the jail & penitentiary house for two years. [2]

“We are informed that Robert Trimble, who murdered Mr. John A. Gooch, was taken a few days ago in Barren county, and is now confined in the jail of sd. county. His brother, who escaped from the guard on his way to the Penitentiary, was taken with him.”[3]

 

 

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[1] “Murdered,” The Mirror of Russellville, KY, Fri., 8 May 1807, p. 4, Newspapers.com.

[2] Livingston County Miscellaneous Files 1807, Accession #A1986-289, Box 1, Kentucky Dept of Libraries and Archives, Frankfort, Ky, accessed 2003.

[3] News item, The Mirror of Russellville, KY, Tues., 20 Oct 1807, p. 3, Newspapers.com.

Published 5 Aug 2021, Western Kentucky Genealogy Blog, http://wkygenealogy.blogspot.com/

Livingston County High School Graduation 1924

 High school graduation was not a one-night celebration in 1924. It lasted more than a week, ending with the commencement address by the Hon. Alben W. Barkley, who was then serving as U.S. Representative and would become the 35^th Vice President of the United States  (1949-1953) in the administration of President Harry Truman.

Twenty students were in the graduating class of Livingston County High School in 1924. This was the largest class in the eight years’ history of the school. Graduating were John Haynes Adams, Anna Dean Boughter, Millicent Downen, Raymond Bishop Dycus, Viva Grace Foster, Thomas V. Frazier, Dorothy Adams Hibbs, James Lacy Hibbs, L. Leroy May, James Mantz Nelson, Camille Parsons, Mary Elizabeth Peal, Ann Louise Presnell, J. Glenn Radcliffe, James Abell Rutter, Eldon Thompson, Verna Frances Threlkeld, Mary Musa Webb, Emma Aylee Wilson and J. Ned Worten.[1]

The commencement exercises began Thursday evening, May 15^th with a varied program. The graduating class presented the senior play, “Much Ado About Betty,” on two evenings, Thursday, May 15 and Friday, May 16.

The baccalaureate sermon was delivered Sunday, May 18, at the Baptist church by Rev. W.L. Baker, pastor of the Smithland Methodist church. The class night exercises were on May 22 in the high school auditorium.

Barkley delivered the commencement address on Friday evening, May 23, at the school building.

 

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[1] “Barkley Will Be Smithland Orator at Commencement,” The Paducah Sun-Democrat, Thu., 8 May 1924, p. 4.

Published 15 July 2021, Western Kentucky Genealogy Blog,  http://wkygenealogy.blogspot.com/

Livingston County Executor's Bonds 1917 - 1918

An executor was named in the will of a recently deceased person. If there was no will and the decedent left property, the county court appointed an administrator to handle the estate business. The executor's duties were to collect and satisfy debts and credits of the estate, make a just and true accounting of his actions and deliver all legacies specified in the will.   The executor signed a bond to show that he would faithfully perform his duties. Securities were co-signers on the executor's bond unless it had been stated in the will that no security was required. The following information comes from Livingston County, Kentucky Executors Bonds 1916 - 1963, a bound volume in the county clerk's office in Smithland. The page number in the bond book is in parenthesis and the date is when the bond was signed.

Mrs. Isadore Brandstetter was appointed executor of the estate of Mrs. S.E. Rappolee. No securities required under the will.  [p. 7]  5 Mar 1917.

Mrs. Thomas Warren was appointed executor of the estate of Thomas Warren. Securities: Dave Warren, Will Warren, Mrs. Alice Rappolee. [p. 9]  4 Jun 1917.

Mrs. Sarah E. Champion was appointed executor of the estate of W.S. Champion. No securities required under the terms of the will. [p. 11]  1 Oct 1917.

Ike Robertson was appointed executor of the estate of J.F. Robertson. No securities required. [p. 13]  4 Oct 1917.

Harrison Long was appointed executor of W.M. Long's estate. No securities required. [p. 15]  5 Nov 1917.

J.D. Foley was appointed executor of the estate of T.H. Robertson. No securities required. [p. 17]  21 Nov 1918.

Published 17 Jun 2021, Western Kentucky Genealogy Blog,  http://wkygenealogy.blogspot.com/

Went West - Josiah B. Hodge Family

Missouri was a favored state for people to relocate after leaving western Kentucky.  One of the families who moved to Missouri was that of Josiah B. Hodge, who left Livingston County, and joined pioneers going west.  What were they seeking? Inexpensive land? A chance for a fresh start? Or something else?  Let’s follow this family who made the move west.

On the 4^th of July 1816, Josiah B. Hodge obtained a bond to marry Julia Williams in Livingston County, Kentucky. Bondsman was Allen Hodge. The bride and bridegroom were both residents of Livingston County. [1]  Josiah B. Hodge and family were enumerated on the 1830 census in Livingston County, [2]  but, in 1837, the family joined the pioneers moving to Missouri. The family located in Cole County, but in 1849 they went into the dry goods business in Brunswick, Chariton County. [3]

The Hodge family was enumerated in Yellow Creek, Chariton County in 1850. [4]  By 26 June 1860, the family had moved on to Robertson County, Texas when they were enumerated on the Agriculture Schedule. [5]  Josiah B. Hodge also appeared on a voter registration list that showed he had been in the state of Texas 15 years and in the county 5 years. [6] That places his move to Texas about 1852-1854 and his settlement in Robertson County 1862-1864.

Josiah B. Hodge continued to live in Robertson County, Texas and appears on the 1880 census in that county. He died 30 May 1882 and is buried in Franklin Cemetery, Franklin, Robertson County.[7]  His journey took him far from his home in Livingston County and even farther from his birthplace in North Carolina.

 

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[1] Joyce M. Woodyard. Livingston County, Kentucky Marriage Records, Vol. 1, (Oct 1799 – July 1839), (n.p. 1992), 46.

[2] 1830 Livingston County, Kentucky census, Salem, Series M19, Roll 39, p. 12, Josiah Hodge, Ancestry.com.

[3] “Hodge,” Chariton Courier (Keytesville, Missouri) Fri., 9 Dec 1898, p. 1. Obituary of Robt. H . Hodge, son of Josiah B. Hodge, Newspapers.com.

[4] 1850 Chariton County, Missouri, Yellow Creek, Josiah B. Hodge, age 54, farmer born North Carolina, and family, Roll 395, p. 199b, Ancestry.com.

[5] 1860 Agriculture Schedule, Robertson County, Texas, Pct 5, U.S., Selected Federal Census Non-Population Schedules, 1850-1860, Ancestry.com.

[6] Robertson County, Texas  Voter Registration of J.B. Hodge on Texas, U.S. Registration Lists, 1862-1869, Pct. 1, Ancestry.com.

[7] Find A Grave, Memorial #331767956, Josiah Bryant Hodge, born 19 Aug 1794; died 30 May 1882; buried Franklin Cemetery, Franklin, Robertson County, Texas.

Livingston County, Kentucky Guardian Appointments 1854

A guardian was appointed for a person who could not act for himself or was under the age of 21 years. If over the age of 14, the minor could choose his own guardian with the approval of the county court. If under age 14, the county court appointed the guardian. The appointment of guardians was recorded in county court order books (court minutes) as well as in a separate guardian bond book. The following entries can be found in County Court Order Book L as well as in Guardian Bond Book 1853-1863, but the name of the parent of the minor is not always given in the Guardian Bond Book..  The source for each appointment is found at the end of each entry. For example, OB L:173 refers to Order Book L, page 173. Sur: refers to the surety who signed the bond with the guardian.  

Joseph C. Wylie was appointed guardian for William Gay, John Gay, Sarah Gay, Harriet Gay, Jane Gay and Gilbert Gay, imfant children of Jerdone Gay and Levisa Gay.  Sur: James H. Bigham.  2 Jan 1854  [Order Book L: 173]

William R. Owens and Sarah Jane Owens,  infant heirs of Alfred Owens dec’d and being over the age of 14, selected John Stone as their guardian.  Sur: Enoch P. Ross.  6 Mar 1854  [Order Book L: 185, 186]

Ellen Bigham, infant heir of Harvey W. Bigham and being over the age of 14, chose Newton H. Bigham as her guardian. Sur: James H. Bigham.   3 Jul 1854  [Order Book L: 199]

William Nelson was appointed guardian for John M. Nelson and James C. Nelson,  infant heirs of Washington Nelson. Sur: R.M. Nelson.  8 Aug 1854 [Order Book L: 203]

Francis E. Clark, infant heir of Richard Clark dec’d, chose Peter Jones as her guardian.  Francis is over the age of 14.  Sur: Wm. Taylor.  8 Aug 1854  [Order Book L: 204]

Joseph M. Shoemaker was appointed guardian for Andrew Stansberry, infant orphan of Wm. Stansberry.  Sur: John Dunn.   4 Sep 1854  [Order Book L: 204]

Mayfield C. Shelton, infant heir of Beverly L. Shelton dec’d, selected Ira E. Shelton as his guardian.  Sur: R.S. Boyd.  2 Oct 1854  [Order Book L: 210]

Jesse Patterson and William H. Patterson, infant orphans of Jesse Patterson and being over the age of 14, chose James W. Hunt as their guardian. Sur: Martha A. Patterson.  6 Nov 1854  [Order Book L: 217]

L. F. Sanders was chosen by William and Robert Smith, orphans of John Smith dec’d, as their guardian.  Sur: B.J. Ross.  6 Nov 1854  [Order Book L: 219]

Published 27 May 2021, Western Kentucky Genealogy Blog, http://wkygenealogy.blogspot.com/

Livingston County, Kentucky Naturalizations 1860 - 1866 Through County Court

A person became a naturalized citizen of the United States after having first filed his intent to become a citizen and renouncing allegiance to a foreign power. In Kentucky, the intention was filed in county court or circuit court and recorded in the court order books (court minutes) of that particular court. The following naturalizations are recorded in Livingston County Court Order Book M on the page stated at the end of each entry.   CoCt OB M, pp 16-17 = County Court Order Book M, pages 16-17

Alexander Louis Jerome Renaud personally appeared in Court and on solemn oath declared that he came to the United States from France on or about 1848  or 1849 last, while  under the age of 21 years; that he  hath resided in the  United States for the space of three years previous to his arrival at such age; that it was bona fide his intention to become a citizen … and to renounce forever all allegiance and fidelity to any foreign prince, potentate, state or sovereignty whatever and particularly Napoleon the Third, Emperor of France whereof  he was heretofore a subject and that for three years past, such has been his intention; and the said Alexander Louis Jerome Renaud having also on his oath declared that he will support the Constitution of the United States, and he doth absolutely and entirely renounce all allegiance and fidelity  to every foreign prince, potentate, state or sovereignty … particularly Napoleon the Third, Emperor of France … and having adduced satisfactory proof to the court that he hath resided in the United States for the space of five years past … that during that Period …  he has behaved as a man of good moral character, attached to the principles of the Constitution of the United States … Whereupon he is declared to be and is hereby admitted a citizen of the United States. 9 Jun 1860.  [CoCt OB M, pp. 16-17]

Victory Guetch, an alien, appeared in court and declared that for three years next preceding his arrival at the age of 21 years and up to the present time, being more that five years he has resided in the United States, that was bona fide his intention to become a citizen of the United States; that he will support the Constitution of the United States ; that he renounces all allegiance and fidelity to any foreign King, Prince, Potentate, State or Sovereignty whatever and particularly Napoleon the Emperor of France whereof he was before a citizen and having produced satisfactory evidence of h is having resided in the United States and in this state for more than five years, three  years was before his arriving at the age of 21 years and that during that time he has behaved as a man of good moral character … Whereupon Victory Guetch is declared to be a citizen of the United States.  7 Jul 1862. [CoCt OB M, p. 130]

Frank Eger appeared in court and produced a certificate duly authenticated, showing that on the 12^th day of Oct 1858 before Louis Richter, clerk of the Vanderburg Circuit Court in Indiana he made declaration of his intention to become a citizen of the United States and having declared on oath that he will support the constitution of the United States; that he renounces all allegiance and fidelity to any foreign potentate, state and Sovereignty particularly the Grand Duke of Bavaria of whom he was heretofore a subject and having produced evidence of his having resided in the United States five years at least and in this state one year at least and during that time he has behaved as a man of good moral character … Whereupon Frank K. Eger is declared to be a citizen of the United States.  6 Jun 1865. [CoCt OB M, p. 293. Intention filed Vanderburgh County, IN Naturalization Book 1, p. 64]

James Quaid, a native of Ireland, who came to the United States as a minor, under the age of 21 years, appeared and stated it was … bona fide his intention to become a citizen … and to renounce all allegiance and fidelity to any foreign prince and particularly to Victoria, Queen of Great Britain of whom he was a subject and that such has been his intention for the last three years past, James Quaid is declared to be a citizen of the United States.  5 Nov 1866.  [CoCt OB M, p.  392]

Published 6 May 2021, Western Kentucky Genealogy Blog,  http://wkygenealogy.blogspot.com/

Livingston County, Kentucky Mid-19th Century Naturalizations

Continuing our listings of naturalization records from Livingston County, Kentucky, these records cover the mid-1840s through the mid-1850's. Those seeking to become citizens could file their intent in one county & state and become a citizen while living in another county & state. They did have to meet the current requirements at the time they applied.

CirCt OB = Circuit Court Order Book

John Behagg. He was born in the kingdom of Great Britain in Huntingdonshire, England. He left there and came to the United States in 1828 where he has continued to reside ever since. Currently a subject of Victoria 1^st Queen of Great Britain and has been since birth. 2 Oct 1844 [CirCt OB L, p. 260] Appearing that Behag made the necessary declaration of his intention to become a citizen on 2 Oct 1844 and having declared he will support the Constitution of the  United States and renounced all allegiance & fidelity to any foreign Prince, Potentate, State or Sovereignty, particularly to Victoria Queen of Great Britain & produced evidence of having resided in the U.S. at least 5 years & in this state at least 1 year & during that time he has behaved as a man of good moral character … he is hereby admitted & declared a citizen of the United States.19 Nov 1847.  [CirCt OB M, p. 276]

John Glanower Owen. He was born 21st Dec 1813 in the Island of Jamaica West Indies in that part of her Britannic Majesty’s Dominion’s, the Queen of England. He left the Kingdom of Great Britain in 1839 and landed at New Orleans about Nov 1839 & is now a subject of her majesty Victoria Queen of Great Britain & Ireland & has been since his birth to present time. 2 Oct 1844  [CirCt OB L, p. 261]

John Kelly. He was born 1800 in County of Galway in the Kingdom of Great Britain in the part called Ireland; he left sd. Kingdom in 1839 & landed in city of New York about the 3^rd day of May 1839. He is now a subject of her Majesty Victoria Queen of the United Kingdoms of Great Britain & Ireland & has been since his birth to the present time. 3 Oct 1845  [CirCt OB L, p. 484]

Erasmus Rothman. He was born 1800 in that part of Germany now under the jurisdiction & sovereignty of Leopold Grand Duke of Baden to whom he now owes allegiance as a subject. He landed in the city of New York in July 1837 & has resided in the U.S. ever since and in town of Smithland for last 5 years. 4 Oct 1845 [CirCt OB L, p. 506] Declared a citizen. 16 May 1848 [CirCt OB M, p. 258]

James Harnston. He was born in May 1816 in Ireland & county of Keig & Kingdom of Great Britain; left there in 1832 & landed in city of New York 1 June 1832 and is now a subject of her Majesty Queen Victoria of the United Kingdom of Great Britain & Ireland and has been since his birth to the present time. 4 Oct 1845 [OB L, p. 506]

William Caverhill. He was born 9 June 1804 in Rocksboroughshire, Scotland & Kingdom of Great Britain in that part of sd. Kingdom called Scotland; He left sd. Kingdom in 1827 and landed at the city of New York on 7 Aug 1827 & is now a subject of her Majesty Victoria Queen of the United Kingdom of Great Britain, Scotland & Ireland.  [CirCt OB L, p. 507, 4 Oct 1845] Made oath to support the Constitution of the United States and admitted as a citizen. 15 Nov 1847 [OB M, p. 244]

David Irving.  He is about 30  years of age & about 5 feet, 8 inches high, from Lanarkshire, Scotland & a machinist by trade. He came to the United States on or about the 20^th day of July 1831 from Scotland. He renounces Victoria, Queen of Great Britain & Ireland. 21 May 1847 [CirCt OB M, p. 170]

Mitchell Worth.   He immigrated to the United States in “1838 the 7^th Jany” & landed in” Louisiana N. Orleans “ & has resided here since. He is 28  years old and was born in the Kingdom of France “under Napoleon & in the Territory of Germany which has since become part of the Prusian Empire.” He renounces all allegiance to every King, Emperor & Potentate, especially the King of Prusia and France. [CirCt OB L, p. 225,  25 Sep 1844]  Declared a citizen. 16 May 1848 [CirCt OB M, p. 357]

Peter Knab. Produced certification showing his intention from St. Louis, Missouri 29 Mar 1841 to become a citizen and renounces every foreign power, prince, state & sovereignty, particularly the Grand Duke of Baden of whom he is at present a subject. W. Beverly, Solomon Littlefield & John Signaigo made oath Peter Knab had resided in this town for 2 years past. 21 May 1849. Declared a citizen. [CirCt OB M, p. 460]

 Esedore Branstrader. Alien; born 1 Apr 1815 in city of Rengen in the Dukedom of Baden (Germany); left Rengen in Feb 1846 and landed at New Orleans 8^th day of May 1846. Currently a subject of the Grand Duke of Baden and has been since his birth to the present time. He desires to become a citizen of the United States. 19 Nov 1850.  [CirCt OB N, p. 98]  Isidore Branstetter absolutely & entirely  renounces allegiance & fidelity to any foreign prince, potentate, State or Sovereignty, particularly the Grand Duke of Baden. Having produced satisfactory evidence of having resided in the United States 5 years at least and in this state 1 year at least and has behaved as a man of good moral character attached to the principles of the Constitution of the United States. He is hereby declared to be a citizen. 28 Jun 1855. [CirCt OB O, p. 140] 

Christopher Jolly. Born in the Kingdom of France and remained there until 6 Oct 1846, when he left France and arrived in the United States 2 Jan 1847. It is his bonafide intention to become a citizen of the United States and renounces forever allegiance & fidelity to any foreign Prince,  Potentate, State or Sovereignty, particularly the Republic of France. 13 May 1851. [CirCt OB N, p. 147]

Lewis Jolly. Born in the Kingdom of France and remained there until 6 Oct 1846. Left France and arrived in the United States 2 Jan 1847. It is his bonafide intention to become a citizen of the United States and renounces forever allegiance & fidelity to any foreign Prince, Potentate, State or Sovereignty, particularly the Republic of France. 13 May 1851. [CirCt OB N,  p. 147

Isaac Bloom. Made this declaration: He came to the United States on or about the 4^th of Jul 1853 from France and it is bona fide his intention to become a citizen of the United States and to renounce all allegiance & fidelity to any foreign Prince, Potentate, State or Sovereignty, particularly Napoleon 3^rd Emperor of France whereof he was formerly a subject. 11 Dec 1855. [CirCt OB O, p. 170]

Moyers Rosenfeld.  Alien. Rosenfeld came to the United States on or about 21 Sep 1852 from the Kingdom of Wittenberg. It is bona fide his intention to become a citizen of the  United States and to renounce all allegiance & fidelity to any foreign Prince, Potentate, State or Sovereignty, particularly William the third King of Wittenberg whereof he was formerly a subject. 12 Dec 1855. [CirCt OB O, p. 177]

Mangold Lowenstein.  Lowenstein produced a certificate showing he had on the 19^th of Sep 1856 in the Court of Common Pleas in the County of New York made the necessary declaration of his intention to become a citizen of the  United States, having declared that he will support the Constitution of the  United States; that he renounced all allegiance & fidelity to any foreign prince, potentate, state or sovereignty, particularly the Duke of Baden whereof he was before a subject & having produced satisfactory evidence of his having resided in the U.S. 5 years at least and in this state 1 year at least & that during that time he behaved as a man of good moral character attached to the principles of the Constitution of the United States and … is declared a citizen of the United States. 7 Jan 1859. [CirCt OB O, p. 612]

Frances Marie Spelger. Alien. Spelger made his declaration: "To the Honl. Judge of Livingston Circuit Court ..." He was born 8 Jan 1831 in Kingdom of Bavaria in Germany. He left there in 1850 and landed in the City of New York the 25th day of - [blank] 1850. He is now a subject of the King of Bavaria and has been since birth. It is his intention to become a citizen of the United States & renounces allegiance to any foreign Prince, Potentate, State or Sovereignty, particularly the King of Bavaria. 16 Jun 1852. [CirCt OB N, p. 287] 

Jacob Kiel. Alien. His declaration: He was born 1 May 1826 in Province of Nassau in Germany, but deprecating his allegiance to the Duke of Nassau and being desirous to become a citizen of the United States & renounces  allegiance & fidelity to any foreign Prince, Potentate, State or Sovereignty, particularly the Duke of Nassau. He left Germany 1 May 1849 & landed in the City of New York 2 Jul 1849 and is now a subject of the Duke of Nassau & has been since birth. 15 Jun 1852. [CirCt OB N, p. 287]

Munrad Fettig. Alien. Born 6th Dec 1797 in the Dukedom of Baden, Germany; left there in 1848 and landed at New Orleans, Louisiana 1 Aug 1848. Made his intent to become a citizen of the United States in Smithland, Kentucky. He renounces forever all allegiance & fidelity to any foreign Prince, Potentate, State or Sovereignty, particular the Dukedom of Germany. 16 Jun 1852. [CirCt OB N, p. 288]

Edward Cuhl. Alien. Declared he came to the United States on or about 25 Dec 1851 from Denmark & it is bonafide his intention to become a citizen & renounces allegiance & fidelity to any foreign Prince, Potentate, State or Sovereignty, particularly Frederick the Seventh King of Denmark whereof he is a subject. 28 Jun 1855. [CirCt OB O, p. 139]

August Copenhagen. Declared he came to the United States from Hanover in 1854 while a minor under the age of 21; he hath resided in the United States for the space of three years previous to his arrival; bonafide is his intention to become a citizen of the U.S. and to renounce forever all allegiance & fidelity to any foreign prince, potentate, state or sovereignty and particularly George, Fifth Grand Duke of Hanover whereof he was a citizen or subject & for three years past such has been his intention. Copenhagen declared he will support the Constitution of the United States ... and having adduced satisfactory proof he has behaved as a  man of good moral character ... admitted a citizen of the United States. 13 Aug 1860. [CirCt OB P, p. 11]

 Published 11 Mar 2021, Western Kentucky Genealogy Blog, http://wkygenealogy.blogspot.com/

Early Naturalization Records of Livingston County, Kentucky

 The first act regulating naturalization was passed in 1790 and was amended several times through the years. Many of the amendments dealt with required length of residence in the United States before citizenship was permitted. The Act of 1805 allowed free white persons to submit their intent to become a citizen as long as they had lived in the United States five years and “renounced allegiance and fidelity to all foreign power, prince, state or sovereignty,” particularly the head of the country where they were born.

Naturalization records were to be submitted to any court of record. The intent to become a citizen could be filed in one county and state and the declaration of citizenship could be finalized in another state. The following documents are recorded in Livingston County, Kentucky Circuit Court Order Books.  The record  of Thomas McCormick below is found in Circuit Court Order Book F, p. 104. 

 CirCt OB= Circuit Court Order Book

Thomas McCormick. In pursuance to an Act of Congress to establish a uniform rule of naturalization, McCormick makes the following registry. He migrated from Ireland; previous to his migration he was a subject of George the 3^rd King of Great Britain, Ireland &c. He landed in the United States in 1816; has resided in Livingston County since the 2^nd day of Decr 1816; His age is 25 years; his business and profession is a merchant. 4 Mar 1823. [CirCt OB F, p. 104] He has behaved as a man of good character. Admitted and considered a citizen of the United States of America. 5 Jun 1826. [CirCt OB F, p. 329]

William Roberts. He migrated from England and previous to his migration he was a subject of George the 3^rd King of Great Britain. He landed in the United States 1807 wherein he has resided since and in Livingston County since 10 Sep 1819. His age is 29 and his business is a tavernkeeper. 4 Mar 1823. [CirCt OB F, p. 105]

John Sheridan. Alien; migrated from Ireland in 1823 and was a subject of King George the 4^th King of Great Britain and Ireland; now renounces all allegiance to every foreign power, Prince, state or Sovereignty, particularly King George the 4^th King of Great Britain and Ireland. 6 Sep 1824. [CirCt OB F, p. 235]

John Ashworth.  In pursuance to an Act of Congress to establish a uniform rule of Naturalization, John Ashworth makes following Registry for being naturalized. He migrated from England about the 19^th of March 1820 and previous to this he was a subject of George the 4^th; he landed in the United States in May 1829 & has now resided in Kentucky upwards of 2 years and within the county 5 months. His age is 26 years; his profession & business a carpenter & it is his bonafide intention to become a citizen of the United States & state of Kentucky.  3 Jun 1823. [CirCt OB F, p. 144] John Ashworth has behaved as a man of good character attached to the principles of the Constitution of the United States. He has renounced all allegiance to any foreign power, Prince, State or Sovereignty, particularly George the 4^th King of Great Britain and Ireland. Granted citizenship. 5 Jun 1826. [CirCt OB F, p. 329]

Richard Kingston. In pursuance of an Act of Congress to establish a uniform Rule of Naturalization Richard Kingston makes the following Registry. He migrated from Ireland about the first of Jun 1806; previous to his migration he was a subject of Geo. The 3^rd; that he landed in the United States 1^st Sep 1806; that he has resided in Kentucky and in this county 23 months; his age is 45 years; his profession is a farmer and it is bonafide his intention to become a citizen.  4 Jun 1823. [CirCt OB F, p. 148]  Kingston has resided 1 year at least in the state during which time he has behaved as a man of good character. Citizenship granted. 7 Jun 1826. [CirCt OB F, p. 351]

John Jenkins. In pursuance of an Act of Congress to establish a uniform rule of Naturalization, he makes the following registry for being naturalized. He migrated from Island[?] about 21 Sep 1816; previous to that he was a subject of George the 3^rd. He landed in the United States Nov 1816 & has resident in Kentucky and in this county 5 months. His age is 38 years and his profession & business is a merchant. 4 Jun 1823.  [CirCt OB F, p. 148]

Richard Rowe. Appeared in court & made oath that he was born in Scotland in Berwick upon Tweed in the government of Great Britain in 1795. He left there in 1818 & landed in the government of the United States and has ever since resided with in sd. Government & for the last 13 years in Livingston County & it is his bonafide intention to become a citizen of the United States & renounces all allegiance to any foreign power, Prince, state or sovereignty, particularly the Government of Great Britain. Jesse Patterson proved in court that Rowe has lived in this state and Tennessee for 8 or 9  years & in this county for more than 2 years & he has good moral character. 9 Sep 1833. [CirCt OB H, p. 111]

James Ewing.  Made oath he was born in County Donegal Ireland in 1791 under the government of Great Britain. Left Ireland 27 May last (viz) 1837 which country was subject to government of William the 4^th King of Great Britain & Ireland, landed in City of New York in the State of New York on the 8^th day of July 1837 and is at this time a citizen of Livingston County. It is bonafide his intention to become a citizen of the United States of America. 18 Sep 1837. [CirCt OB I, p. 79]

Walter Burns, a Scotchman and alien, produced in court a Declaration of his intention to become a citizen of the United States … “I was born in the Island of Great Britain, a subject of the kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland; I immigrated to the United States in 1836 in the 22^nd year of my age … and I do declare it to be my bonafide intention to become a citizen of same and  renounce all allegiance to any foreign prince, power or potentate whatsoever, particularly to Victoria, 1^st Queen of Great Britain and Ireland.” 13 Sep 1841  [Cir Ct OB K, p. 231]  Walter Burns (an alien) took the oaths to support the Constitution of the United States and the state of Kentucky. 21 Sep 1843. [CirCt OB L, p. 76]

Robert Shearer, alien, made oath that bonafide is his intention to become a citizen of the United States and renounces all allegiance … particularly to Victoria 1^st Queen of Great Britain & Ireland.  23 Mar 1843 [CirCt OB K, p. 619]  Proven in court by the oaths of P.C. Lander & Jas. W. Mills that Shearer has resided in the U.S. for 5 years at least and in this state for more than 1 year & during that time he has behaved as a man of good moral character. Granted citizenship. 20 May 1847 [CirCt OB M, p. 168]

John Wayman, an alien, made oath that bonafide is his intention to become a citizen of the United States, and renounces all allegiance … particularly Victoria, 1^st Queen of Great Britain and Ireland. 23 Mar 1843 [CirCt OB K, p. 619]

Frederick William Kreft, by Peter Tillman, a sworn interpreter, made oath and signed a declaration for the purpose of becoming a citizen. Kreft was born 16 Oct 1814 in the providence of Westphalia of the Kingdom of Prusia [sic]. He left there in 1843 and landed at New Orleans 1^st of June 1843; is now a subject of Frederick William the 4^th King of Prusia and has been  since his birth to the present time; renounces all allegiance to Frederick William the 4^th King of Prusia. 25 Sep 1844  [CirCt OB L, p. 226] Residence since Apr 1844 proved by oaths of P.H. Conant & Solo. Littlefield. Declared a citizen. 23 May 1849 [CirCt OB M, p. 479]

Charles Hutswede, by Peter Tillman, a sworn interpreter. Hutswede was born 8 May 1817 in the province of Westphalia; he left there 1843 and landed at New Orleans 25 Dec 1843. He renounced all allegiance to any foreign power, prince, or potentate, particularly Frederick William the 4^th King of Prussia. 25 Sep 1844 [CirCt OB L, p. 226]

James Senor. He was born 31 July 1804 in the Department Duda[?] of the Kingdom of France in the part of the country called Monballiar [Montpelliar?]. He left France in 1833 & landed in city of New York 4 Aug 1833 and is now a subject of Louis Phillip King of France and has been since birth to the present time. 25 Sep 1844 [CirCt OB L, p. 227]

Peter Tillman. He was born 2 Aug 1813 in Dusseldorf in the Kingdom of Prusia [sic].  He left Dusseldorf in 1839 & landed at the city of New York on 26 Oct 1839 and is now a subject of Frederick William the 4^th King of Prusia and has been since his birth.25 Sep 1844 [CirCt OB L, p. 227]

Lewis Martin  by James Senor, a sworn interpreter.  Martin was born 15 Jan 1801 in Mur Department in the Kingdom of France. He left the Kingdom of France in 1838 & landed in the city of New Orleans about 13 Apr 1838. He is now a subject of Louis Phillip King of France and has been since his birth to the present and now wishes to renounce all allegiance & fidelity to all foreign prince, power or potentate whatsoever, particularly Louis Phillip King of France. 26 Sep 1844  [CirCt OB L, p. 234]

George Wilson.  He was born 1807 in the Kingdom of Sweden, emigrated to the United States and landed at Philadelphia in 1822 and has resided in the United States ever since. In 1834 he was in a court of record in New York naturalized and received record evidence of the fact which has since lost in the city of Liverpool on a voyage to England. It is now as it has all the while been his intention to in good faith to become a citizen of the US. And state of Kentucky. He holds no title of nobility whatever and renounces all allegiance to every King, Prince, potentate whatever and especially to the King of Sweden and declares he will be faithful & true to the Constitution of the United States and state of Kentucky.  26 Sep 1844 [CirCt OB L, p. 234]

Thomas Croaker, an Irishman by birth, declared bonafide his intention to become a citizen and renounces all allegiance to any foreign prince, potentate, state or sovereignty, particularly Victoria, Queen of England Ireland [sic]. 21 Sep 1843 [CirCt OB L, p. 80] Croker permitted under Acts of Congress to take necessary oaths requisite to becoming a citizen of the United States.  Granted citizenship. 1 Oct 1845  [CirCt OB L, p. 476]

Edward Dixon. He is an Englishman by birth & from Cumberland County & a subject of Victoria, the first, queen of Great Britain. He landed in city of New York 12^th of Aug 1833 & has been in the U.S. ever since & renounced allegiance to every King, Queen, potentate or Sovereign, especially to Victoria, present Queen of England & will support the constitution of the U.S. and state of Kentucky. 21 Sep 1843 [CirCt OB L, p. 80]

John Dick. He is a Scotchman by birth & from Aberdeen County & a subject of Victoria the first, Queen of Great Britain. He landed at New York on the 20^th Sep 1834 & has been in the U.S. ever since. 21 Sep 1843  [CirCt OB L, p. 80]

Published 28 Jan 2021, Western Kentucky Genealogy Blog, http://wkygenealogy.blogspot.com/

More Livingston County, Kentucky Divorces

 The following divorce citations were found in the Livingston County Circuit Court Order Books (court minutes) after earlier entries were published. Allow for variance in spelling names. The order books are sometimes hard to read due to poor handwriting, fuzzy filming and soiled or stained pages.  It was also difficult to use the index, if there was one. Sometimes “Divorce” was written after the names or sometimes “Pet. Eq.” was written. More often the only clues were the identical surnames of the plaintiff and defendant (i.e. “Dallas vs Dallas”)  This resulted in skimming through the entire order book and making a list of possible divorces. 

If the names look familiar, order the case file from the Kentucky Dept for Libraries and Archives    KDLA     The cost is reasonable ($15 for out of state residents and $10 for Kentucky residents)  and a credit card can be used for speedy delivery. Divorce case files often provide quite a lot of information, especially if the parties were not natives of Livingston County.

CirCt OB = Circuit Court Order Book

 Ames, Fisher vs Zulania Ames. Divorce granted 28 June 1855. Plaintiff to pay costs and $10 allowed to the attorney appointed to defend defendant to be taxed as costs. (CirCt OB O, p. 142)

 Baynes, E.J. vs Mary Baynes. Divorce granted 26 Aug 1862. Plaintiff to pay costs. (CirCt OB P, p. 437)

 Biggs, W.J. vs M.J. Biggs. Divorce filed 30 Aug 1860; granted 5 Mar 1861.  (CirCt OB P, pp. 117, 279)

Champion, Nancy vs Berry Champion. Divorce granted 25 Sep 1841.  (CirCt OB K, p. 283)

Coker, A. vs M.D. Coker. Petition for divorce 27 Aug 1862. Dismissed. (CirCt OB P, p. 473)

 Dallas, Jubal vs Martha Dallas. Petition for divorce 27 Aug 1860 (CirCt OB P, p. 99) At least three of the Dallas children were living with families in Sangamon County, Illinois on the 1870 census.

Gwinn, John vs Barbara Gwinn. Divorce granted 10 Jan 1857.  (CirCt OB O, p. 394)

 Hinton, Eliza A. vs Hugh A. Hinton. Divorce granted 27 Aug 1862. Plaintiff’s name changed to Eliza A. Ferguson, that being her maiden name. (CirCt OB P, p. 466)

 Hooper, Laban L. vs Elizabeth Hooper. Divorce granted 21 Aug 1861. Each party to be restored to all property which came through or by them which has not been expended.  (CirCt OB P, p. 315)

 Irving, David vs Eliza H. Irving. In Chancery (for divorce) filed 19 May 1847.  Defendant not an inhabitant. Defendant warned to appear and answer complainant’s bill on or before 1^st day of ensuing term f court.  (CirCt OB M, p. 160) Defendant did not appear and appearing that she has abandoned her husband & deserted him and continues to live separately from him for more than 1 year previous to filing of this petition. Plaintiff granted divorce and to be restored to all rights, privileges & immunities of an unmarried man. 16 May 1848. (CirCt OB M, p. 351) [1]

  Leftridge, Mary vs Joseph Leftridge. Divorce granted 10 Jan 1857. (CirCt OB O, p. 394)

  Markham, M.H. vs J.T. Markham. Petition dismissed 25 Aug 1860.  (CirCt OB P, p. 89)

  Marley, James vs Sarah J. Marley. Divorce granted 7 Jan 1859. Plaintiff to pay costs. (CirCt OB O, p. 618)

 Monroe, Robert vs Mahala Monroe. Divorce granted 24 Aug 1860.  (CirCt OB P, p. 85)

 Powell, L.A. vs G.W. Powell. Petition for Divorce 1 July 1859. By agreement of parties, defendant to pay plaintiff’s attorney $25 and to the officers of the court their fees and suit dismissed. (CirCt OB O, p. 665)

 Reeves, Redding vs Ailcey Reeves. Granted 10 Jan 1857. Plaintiff to pay costs.  (CirCt OB O, p. 394)

Snow, Martha A. Snow vs John N. Snow. Divorce granted 26 Aug 1862. Property of plaintiff consisting of “three Negroes, a buggy and horse and all other property that she has, including land and personalty adjudged to her.” Plaintiff to have custody, care and education of the child, Elizabeth E. Snow, and plaintiff to recover her costs. (CirCt OB P, p. 437)

Stewart, Samuel vs Virginia Stewart. Divorce granted 10 Jan 1857.  (CirCt OB O, p. 394)

Stringer, John vs Margaret Stringer. Divorce petition of plaintiff dismissed 19 Aug 1861; answer of defendant’s cross petition continued. (OB P, p. 312)  Cross Petition: Divorce granted M.A. Stringer 28 Aug 1862. Each party to be restored to all property not disposed of at commencement of this action. M.A. Stringer to recover from John Stringer her costs; $25 allowed for her attorney’s fees. (CirCt OB P, p. 474)

Tanner, Lucinda vs John Tanner. Filed 13 Dec 1855. Plaintiff warned to appear 17 Dec 1855. Dismissed 3 July 1856 (CirCt OB O, p. 198, 219, 325)

Wadley, Philip vs Louisa Wadley. Petition for divorce. On motion of plaintiff, ordered petition be dismissed 4 July 1856. (CirCt OB O, p. 331)

Williams, Ludicia vs W.W. Williams. Divorce granted 10 Jan 1857, Plaintiff to recover her costs expended and $10 attorney’s compensation.  (CirCt OB O, p. 393)

 

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[1] Two days after David Irving filed the petition for a divorce from his wife, he filed his intent to become a citizen of the United States. A native of Scotland, he came to the United States from Lanarkshire, Scotland on or about the 20^th of July 1831. The intent to become a citizen is found in Livingston County Circuit Court Order Book M, p. 170. The naturalization intent was filed 21 May 1847.

Published 14 Jan 2021, Western Kentucky Genealogy Blog,  http://wkygenealogy.blogspot.com/