The Hedges of Stafford/Prince William Counties Virginia 1660- 1980 © - Part 1

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Robert Hedges is listed among 15 white, indentured, English servants of Lt. Col. Nathaniel Pope, in his final inventory, dated 14 May 1660, and proven 17 May 1660. Robert Hedges was valued at ? . . (sterling). These servants presumably lived on Lt. Col. Pope's home Plantation, which, by his will dated 16 May 1659, he left to his son, Nathaniel Pope jr., allowing his widow and relict a life estate until death or remarriage. This Pope Plantation was on Hallowes creek, and upon it were the warehouses, dwellings, and docks for the merchant trade with Plymouth, Bristol, and London. He shipped beaver, tobacco with caske, and raw materials; and he imported all manner of English manufactured goods.

Westmoreland Co Records      Pages 8a-10a      Mr Nathaniel Pope
inventory
   
14 May 1660  total valuation of servants:                         
?? . . 
The servants: 
Richard Higsden, William Robertson & Eliza Norton:            10
. . 
Robert Hedges & Edward Pickery:                             
£ 18 . . 
John Coffer, John Butler & Robert Owen:                     
£ 38 . . 
Jasper Bennett, Isaac Berkly   & William Staple:            
£ 45 . . 
John Waller & Charles Coskett:                              
£ 28 . . 
Richard Taylor & Dorcas Rose:                               
£ 30 . .

John Washington had arrived in Virginia in late 1656 on "ye catch" of Edward Prescott. He elected to remain in the home of Col. Pope, and had a dispute with Captain Prescott over losses on "ye Sea Horse of London", which cast away on a shoal in the Potomac after loading for the return voyage to London. Ann Pope wed John Washington, and was the mother of his three surviving progeny. John Washington later moved from their Hallowes creek home to the "Anderson tract" on the Potomac which was the birthplace of George Washington in 1732, three generations later, now known as Wakefield, a significant Virginia State Shrine.

Robert Hedges was headrighted by Nathaniel Pope jr on 23 March 1664. The custom of saving headrights, valued at 50 acres each, in anticipation of the availability of desirable land, was a common practice. The Pope family paid Robert Hedges' passage as he emigrated and were thereby entitled to his 50 acre headright. Robert Hedges' date of arrival we logically place in the late 1650's.

Since the first printing of the Hedges History the following circumstance has come to light. The records of convicts should be examined as a possible source of Robert Hedges' indenture. All land holdings in Ireland were forfeit to Cromwell and the Roundhead Parliament. Hedges in Ireland were thus impoverished and outlawed, as were all the Irish landowners.

Parliaments of Ireland, February 9, 1743/4 Merchants being examined for accounts for the felons and vagabonds transported to the Colonies. Bonds of £ 50 per felon, . . . cost of transport of £ 2.10s - £ 3. with £ 5. allowed by the Parliament for said transport . . . sale price from ?.10 - £ 13.10 for the indentures in the Colonies, as average of upwards of 100 named transported Irish.

Robert Hedges' indenture ended before August 1661, for at that time he registered his brand of cattle and hogs. He was, no doubt, supplied with his freedom dues consisting of 12 bushels of corn, two sets of apparel and a felt hat, by the Pope family.

Westmoreland Co Records Pages 44a -
Robert Hedges doth give for his marke of cattle and hoggs in the left eare an hole and the right eare cropt and slitt and underkeeled and overkeeled.

Dr. Lyon G. Tyler of William and Mary College stated in his 8 Tylers, p.227, his belief that Robert Hedges was a servant or tenant of John Washington.
The author of the volumes Washingtons of Virginia, Vol I p.205 has decided that Robert Hedges was a tenant on the land of John Washington, as reflected in his footnotes.
J. M. Toner stated, in his Genealogical Gleanings in England, p.524, that a land deal had taken place between Robert Hedges and John Washington. He made note of the poor condition of the will, and the missing edge of the page which deleted words down one side.

21 Sept 1675 Westmoreland Co p.356a-367
Will of John Washington of Washington Parish in Westmoreland Co. Gentlemen : . . . . upon my eldest son [Lawrence] that seat of land whereupon Henry Flagg liveth_______________________ John Watts and Robert Hedges being by patent 700 acres, being by my father [-in-law Nathaniel Pope] _______ made over to me . . . .

Each of these opinions were made without the depth of research which is herein assembled. John Washington was always the focal point of the research, rather than the unknown Robert Hedges. Robert Hedges purchased 200 acres on the "head of Hallowes creek" on 29 Oct 1662, where he raised cattle, hogs and tobacco, which took the place of coin for business. This 200 acres was very near the 700 acre tract of John and Ann Pope Washington.

Westmoreland Co Records Testament Thomas Carvell Richard Griffins John Frissell October the 29th 1662 this letter of attorney was recorded

Moulton} To all whom this &, I William Berkeley Kt& whereas & now know ye Pattent} that I the said William Berkeley & doe with the consent of the Council of State accordingly give and grant unto Thomas Moulton two hundred acres of land situate lying and being on the head of Hallowes creek bounding on the land of John Vaughn and running north 320 poles west 100 poles south 320 poles east along the creek side 100 poles to the place where it began the said land being formally granted unto William Freake by pattent dated the 11th of September 1653 and by him assigned over unto John Beard and by the said Beard assigned unto the said Thomas Moulton and now renewed by order of the Governor and Council bearing date with these present to have and to hold the said land& to him and his heirs and assigns forever yielding and paying& Given under our hands at James Cittie this 16th day of May 1660.
William Berkeley William Claiborne Sec October the 29th 1662
this pattent was recorded

Freake Pattent To all& whereas& now know ye that the said Richard Bennett Esq do give and grant unto William Freake two hundred acres of land situate lying and being in the head of Hallowes creek bounding on the lands of John Vaughn running north 320 poles west 100 poles south 320 poles east along the creek side 100 poles to the place where it begun the said land being due unto the said Freake by and for the transportation of four persons into the colony all whose names are in the records mentioned under this patent.
Given under our hand this 11th September 1653
Richard Bennett William Claibourne Secty

Carvell } Know all men by these present that I Thomas Carvell of Woolston to } Mannor in Maryland, Planter doe by these present authorize and Lord } appoint my loveing friend John Lord, High Sheriff of Westmoreland County to bee my attorney to acknowledge to Robert Hedges one pattent of land containing 200 acres of land at the head of Appomattox creek as by pattent may more at large appear as witness my hand this 17th day of October 1662.

Moulton } Know all men by these present that we Thomas Moulton and Joane to }Moulton doe hereby assign over all our right title and interest in this Carvell } pattent of 200 acres of land unto Thomas Carvell his heirs and assigns forever as witnesses our hands this 5th day of September 1660
William Thomas Paul Settlefield Joane Moulton

Flint's } 5th September 1660 This assignment was acknowledged in Attestation} Northumberland Court by the aforesaid Thomas Moulton and by Richard Spann attorney of Joane Moulton and is recorded
Richard Flint
October the 29th 1662 this assignment and certificate was recorded.

Carvell } By vertue of the written assignment from Thomas Moulton and Joane to}his wife unto me I doe assign all my right and title and interest in this Hedges}pattent unto Robert Hedges his heirs or assigns forever as witness my hand this 17th of October 1662
teste Richard Griffith Thomas Carvell
John Trissell October the 28th 1662
This assignment was acknowledged in Westmoreland County Court by John Lord Atty for Thomas Carvell to the purpose appointed and thus recorded.

This 200 acre Hedges tract was near the John & Thomas Bowcock 350 acres as shown on the map. John Watts was the owner of the 200 acres as shown on the published map dated 1739. Due to missing records for 1671-1691 and 1697-1701, we do not have knowledge of the date of sale, or of the circumstances of the land transfer.

30 June 1675 Westmoreland Co p.239a-240 John Bowcocke estate account: Receipts: Robert Hedges (among others)
Payments: Robert Hedges, for his sickness (among others)

The author has mapped Hallowes creek for the first time showing this early era. We may examine the proximity of Robert Hedges' home to the original home of John Washington on his 700 acre tract noted in the Washington will at the mention of Robert Hedges' name.

Robert Hedges formed a partnership with John Dixon which lasted two years. John Dixon had been imported by John Washington and was on his own by November 1671. The partnership papers clearly state "ye plantation belonging unto Robert Hedges" and "ye plantation I (Robert Hedges) now live upon" indicating that Robert Hedges owned and lived upon his own plantation during this series of years. Additional servants are noted, so John Dixon was not the only worker. Logic dictates that this is the 200 acre tract on Hallowes creek.

6 Novem 1671 Westmoreland Co p. 71a-72
The articles of agreement between Robert Hedges of Washington Parish. and John Dixon of aforesaid. Fort he fidelity trust, confidence and good opinion each one hath for the other, hath joined themselves together to be copartners in all manner of stock, hoggs and cattle, servants, horses, and mares, and in manuering and tending what crops shall be made upon the plantation belonging unto Robert Hedges during the term of each others lives. Robert Hedges doth oblige himself that John Dixon shall have one-half part of the plantation I now live and to be equally manuered and tended between us. But in case John Dixon shall think to remove from Robert Hedges what estate shall be between then it is to be equally divided and Robert Hedges to pay unto John Dixon 3000L tobacco. In case Robert Hedges shall die during the time of their copartnership then John Dixon shall not claim any benefit of the land or estate by way of survivorship but only be contented with his halfe. But in case John Dixon shall marry then he is to depart off the plantation with his full half part. In case either of them shall not agree then six months notice must be given to dissolve the partnership.
Robert "X" Hedges John "X" Dixon
Wit: Robt Nurse 29 Novem 1671 Recorded

24 Sept 1673 Westmoreland Co p.157a
Robert Hedges and John Dixon copartnership acknowledged to be voided by John Dixon and Robert Hedges, and all the estate to be the right of Robert Hedges, by John Dixon, for three bills for 12,000L tobacco, all my interest of the estate that was in copartnership between is, Robert Hedges and John Dixon as of a writing 6 Novem 1671.
4 Sept 1673 John "X" Dixon
Wit: Gilbert Huband, Humphry Finch acknowledged by John Dixon

9 Mar 1671 Westmoreland Co p.124- 125a
Mr William Brown estate account by Lt. Collo John Washington - Receipts due from Robert Hedges

2 Feb 1674 Westmoreland Co p.220a-221
Robert Hedges of Washington Parish, Westmoreland Co, Planter, appoint my loveing friend Adam Wofendall my attorney to defend all the differences between me and the executors of John Bowcocke.
Robert "X" Hedges

26 July 1673 Westmoreland Co p.139a
Richard Davidson, with the consent of Robert Hedges, father-in-law to the said Davidson. As a gift of Hedges a yearling heifer givith for his mark an underkeel of the left eare, overkeeled of the right and a crop. And all the increase Robt Hedges givith to the said child.
Robert Hedges

The above document has formally been theorized to mean a son-in-law of Robert Hedges, thus indicating a daughter and her child.
Close examination indicates, however that Richard Davidson was, in fact, a step-son of Robert Hedges, based on the legal meaning of the phrase father-in-law, meaning father under-the-law as opposed to real father. Robert Hedges evidently wed a widow Davidson in that era.
We also have a document indicating two individuals named Robert Hedges lived in the same area in 1675. The inquest document of 1675 names Sgt. Robert Hedges as a substitute coroner and also names Robert Hedges on a jury of twelve. I believe there is a family connection between these two Robert Hedges. Robert Hedges may be the son of Sgt. Robert Hedges or conversely Sgt. Robert Hedges may be the son, while the jury member is the elder of the pair. This is still all theory due to the absence of conclusive documents.

17 October 1675 Westmoreland Co p.246a
We are informed that Mr Horner is suddenly dead. These are to inform you to summons a jury of the neighborhood and that they inquisition how Mr Horner came to his death.
John Lord Robert Vulx
To Sergt. Robert Hedges in the absence of the constable. (also) Robert Hedges, among twelve on the jury.
"we find the person died of an imposture that choked him"
Sworn before John Lord Coroner

We have circumstantial records of Lt. Col. Nathaniel Pope's Chopawamsick creek patents; 1000 acres patented on 6 Sept 1654, and surrendered, followed by a 1500 acre patent dated 31 Aug 1657. The headright lists and the deeds disposing of this land are not extant, but Robert Hedges may have been aware of the availability of land on Chopawamsic from early years. Also, Burr Harrison from London registered a brand the same day as Robert Hedges in 1661, and he was exploring north in Stafford in 1680 and did settle on Chopawamsick creek as the founder of the Harrison Family of Stafford/Prince William.

During the summer of 1675 the Dogue Indians killed a herds-man named Robert Hen in Stafford Co. As a result, Col. George Mason and Capt. Giles Brent, with their militia, which in Stafford were known as the Rangers, pursued the offenders and killed some Susquehannocks who had been a friendly tribe. Later in 1675, Col. John Washington and his Virginia militia and Major Truman and his Maryland troops laid siege to a Susquehannock fortress in lower Maryland. During the siege, sixty or so colonial militia soldiers were killed. A troop of foot soldiers was sixty men and a troop of horse was fifty men strong, in this era. The Indian forces then slipped across the Potomac River and attacked plantations, burning and murdering throughout Westmoreland and on into Virginia. Nathaniel Bacon raised a private force for self- defense of the Colony and to destroy the once friendly tribe, and the events in Bacon's Rebellion are now history. The Baconians seized Col. Washington's plantation, provisions and livestock, and they fortified themselves in his home. This army held Westmoreland Co. until November 1676. After Loyalist again took control, These original rebels were prosecuted and assessed 25,025 L tobacco to repay Westmoreland for troop destruction, meals, and thefts.

John Holmes was one of the men of Stafford Co. who claimed protection under the General Amnesty offered by the Crown in the wake of Bacon's Rebellion. John Holmes bought land on Great Hunting Creek on 20 March 1682, and on Accotinck on 16 November 1692. A total of 513 acres became Hedges land from these transactions.

The Hedges family was surrounded by this tumult though their opinions on the right and wrong of the Rebellion are not recorded.

Westmoreland Co Order Book 1675/76-1688/89
Sept 1677 Neale v [He]dges nonsuit 50L tobacco Margaret Haydon vs. Robert Hedges, Order vs. Robert Hedges for 80L tobacco.
14 June 1677 p. 70 Robert Hedges vs. John Frodsham, Order vs. Sheriff, attachment
26 Sept 1677 p. 89 Robert Hedges, jury duty among twelve
25 June 1678 p.128 (indicates land owner status) Anthony Bridges vs. Robert Hedges Order vs Capt Lord Sheriff

Robert Hedges had moved to Stafford Co before 1689, and was called for jury duty in that year. This Robert Hedges I presume to be the younger Robert Hedges, son of Robert Hedges of Westmoreland. Robert Hedges II of Stafford who held the land patents of 1708 would have been too young for this document, and is known to be the son of John Hedges. However, I shall theorize that John Hedges of Stafford may be the son of this Robert and thus grandson of Sgt. Robert Hedges, or possibly a brother, if a connection exists at all. This is all surmise due to the lack of proof for this time era.

13 March 1689/90 Stafford Co Order Bk 1689/93 p. 28
Monk vs. Downing. The jury find for the plaintiff. Robert Hedges among twelve on the jury.

Robert Hedges acquired a warrant from the Proprietor's office in Lancaster Co on 19 December 1707. He then had Thomas Gregg survey 346 unclaimed acres on Chopawamsick Creek next to Thomas Harrison's plantation. This 346 acres was on the north runs of Chopawamsick Creek within a few miles of Dumfries, which was later founded on Quanticott bay near the Potomac river. Thomas Gregg also surveyed 160 acres on Quanticott creek, on its north run. Both of these patents were within the boundaries of Prince William Co when that county was formed from Stafford in 1731.

The hamlet of Dumfries was a later development on Quanticott Creek, but the Quanticott Bay was already known to be on the edge of the "freshies", and also a bay not likely to be ice bound due to the salt tides from the bay reaching north as far as this creek. The road from the tobacco warehouse on Quanticott to the interior followed the branch of Quanticott.

Hamilton Parish was inclusive of this area when it was formed from Overwharton Parish in 1731, and Dettingen Parish included both Hedges Plantations when it was formed in 1744. Robert Hedges received his patents for 346 acres and 160 acres on 7 November 1708, courtesy of the Proprietors.

The area of Stafford in 1708 was not secure. There were no arms stored north of Lancaster Co., and the Rangers were not effective without sufficient weapons. The militia was composed of men under age sixty. and numbered as follows. 2 Field Officers; 36 Captains & subalterns; 59 Horse; 75 Dragoons; and 225 Foot soldiers.

Robert Hedges heired the 513 acres from the John Holmes estate, and when he received his 346 acre and 160 acre patents, he was possessed of 1019 acres.

The law passed before 1713 required that a planter actually utilize his land. Three acres must be worked for every 50 acres within a patent within three years . It must be fully improved, cleared and fenced, draining the swamps and dismals. . . three head of cattle or six goats or sheep shall be kept in pasture on the land. . . one dwelling house 20 ft in length and 16 ft in breadth after the manner of virginia buildings shall be built. . rocky or stony ground shall have one hand per 100 acres for quarrie or coal mining . . . .or the patent to be utterly void.

Marguritte Lady Culpepper, Thomas Lord Fairfax and Catherine his wife, Proprietors of the Northern Neck of Virginia: To all whom these present writings shall come sent Greetings in our Lord God Everlasting-- Whereas Robert Hedges of ye county of Stafford upon his suggestion of a certain quantity of land belonging to us in ye said county which is not yet granted did on ye 19th day of December last obtain a warrant from our office for laying out ye same and having now returned a survey thereof under ye hand of Thomas Gregg surveyor Know ye therefore that we for and in consideration of ye compensation to us paid and ye annual rent hereafter reserved, have granted, made over and confirmed & do by these present grant, make over and confirm unto ye said : Robert Hedges three hundred and forty six acres of land situate lying and being on ye main run of Chopawamsick creeke on ye upper north side thereof above ye fork in ye county of Stafford aforesaid and bounded according to ye said survey as followeth Vitz : Beginning at a marked poplar standing o Chopawamsick run side near Mr Thomas Harrison Plantation ant at the mouth of a small branch and extends south 77 degrees east 100 poles to a marked hickory then north 85 degrees east 46 poles to a red oak then north 41 degrees east 80 poles to a white oak then north 15 degrees east 60 poles to a black oak then north 45 degrees east 68 poles to a red oak thence north 30 degrees west 100 poles to a white oak thence south 85 degrees west 228 poles to a white oak standing on a branch of the main run thence down the branch south 11 degrees west 63 poles to a marked ash tree at the mouth thereof then down the main run to the beginning . . . together with all rights members appurtenances thereunto belonging, Royall Mines excepted & ye full third part of all lead tinn coals and iron mines that shall be found thereon. To have and to hold ye said three hundred and forty six acres of land together with all rights profits and benefits to ye same belonging or in any way appertaining except before excepted to him ye said Robert Hedges his heirs and assigns therefore yielding and paying to us our heirs and assigns or to ye certain attorney or attorneys of us the said proprietors or attorneys to our heirs and assigns Proprietors of ye said Northern Neck yearly and every year on the Feast of St. Michael the Archangel ye fee rent of one shilling sterling money for every fifty acres of land hereby granted. Provided that if ye Robert Hedges his heirs and assigns shall not pay ye before reserved annual rent so ye same or any part thereof shall be behind or unpaid by ye space of two whole years after ye same shall become due if lawfully demanded that then it shall & may be lawful for us our heirs and assigns certain attorneys or agents into ye above granted premises to reenter and hold ye same as if this grant had never been passed. Given at our office in Lancaster Co within our Proprietary under our seal witness our agent & attorney fully authorized thereto dated ye seventh day of November in ye seventh year of ye reign of our Sovereign Lady Anne by ye Grace of God of England, Scotland, France, and Ireland, Queen Defender of ye Faith & Annog : Dom 1708 Robert Hedges his deed for 346 acres of land in Stafford County

Marguritte Lady Culpepper, Thomas Lord Fairfax and Catherine his wife, Proprietors of the Northern Neck of Virginia : To all whom these present writings shall come sent Greetings in our Lord God Everlasting -- Whereas Robert Hedges of ye county of Stafford upon his suggestion of a certain quantity of land belonging to us in ye said county which is not yet granted did on ye 19th day of December last obtain a warrant from our office for laying out ye same and having now returned a survey thereof under ye hand of Thomas Gregg surveyor Know ye therefore that we for and in consideration of ye compensation to us paid and ye annual rent hereafter reserved, have granted, made over and confirmed & do by these present grant, make over and confirm unto ye said : Robert Hedges one hundred sixty acres of land situate lying and being on Quanticott Creeke main run in ye county of Stafford aforsd & bounded according to ye sd : survey as followeth Vitz: Beginning at three marked poplars standing on Quanticott main run ye said three poplars being likewise the beginning of Sam'll Jackson land on ye same run and extends thence by ye sd Jackson's line south 25 degrees west 50 poles to a marked red oak standing in ye sd Jackson's line, thence south 47 degrees east 48 poles to a hickory then south 10 degrees east 64 poles to a black oak then east 20 poles to a hickory then north 80 degrees east 20 poles to a white oak standing by ye main run on ye upper or north side thereof then south 30 degrees east down ye main run by its meanders 35 poles to ye mouth of a branch then up ye said branch north 75 degrees east 60 poles to a marked white oak standing in ye branch then north four degrees east 140 poles to a red oak the north 25 degrees west 86 poles to another of Sam'll Jackson's lines then by ye same line of Jackson's south 54 degrees west to a white oak corner tree of Jackson's standing on ye main run then up ye main run to the first beginning north 52 degrees west 12 poles. Together with all rights members and appurtenances thereunto belonging Royall Mines excepted & ye full third part of all lead copper tinn coals and iron mines that shall be found thereon. To have and to hold the sd one hundred and sixty acres of land together with all rights profits and benefits to ye same belonging or in any wise appertaining except before excepted to him ye sd: Robert Hedges his heirs and assigns forever. He ye sd Robert Hedges his heirs and assigns therefore yielding and paying to us our heirs and assigns or to ye certain attorney or attorneys of our heirs and assigns Proprietors of ye sd Northern Neck yearly and every year on ye Feast of St. Michael the Archangel ye fee rent of one shilling sterling money for every fifty acres of land hereby granted provided that if ye Robert Hedges his heirs and assigns shall not pay ye same or any part thereof shall be behind or unpaid by ye space of two whole years after ye same shall become due if lawfully demanded that then it shall & may be lawful for us our heirs and assigns certain attorneys or agents into ye above granted premises to reenter and hold ye same as if this grant had never been passed. Given at our office in Lancaster Co within our Proprietary under our seal witness our agent & attorney fully authorized thereto dated ye seventh day of November in ye seventh year of ye reign of our Sovereign Lady Anne by ye Grace of God of England, Scotland, France, and Ireland, Queen Defender of ye Faith & Annog : Dom 1708 Robert Hedges has deed for 160 acres of land in Stafford County

Robert Hedges paid quitrents (pronounced quittance), in 1723, of 144 lbs. tobacco for 600 acres, indicating that the remaining 419 acres, parts of various tracts, were leased to other planters. Richard Higgins appears a likely tenant, as he had 400 acres to pay rent for, and his land is documented later as Robert Hedges' land.

          Stafford/Prince William Co   Quitrent Lists  


Robert Hedges :              600 acres         1723
Richard Higgins :            400 acres         1723
Robert Hedges :               810 acres         1737
John Hedges   :              160 acres         1737
Richard Higgins:             200 acres         1737
                       Robert Hedges land
Robert Hedges :              810 acres         1738/9
John Hedges   :             160 acres         1738/9
Richard Higgins :            200 acres          1738/9
Robert Hedges :           700 acres          1750
Robert Hedges :          700 acres        1751  no arrears   14/
pd
Robert Hedges :              700 acres        1753
James Grigsby :             200 acres        1762
Robert Hedges :            700 acres        1754
Robert Hedges :           700 acres        1760  4 yr arrears
?.15/ pd
                      John Hedges has possession
John Hedges :                 700 acres            1761
John Hedges :                700 acres            1762
Susan Grigsby:               200 acres            1762
John Hedges :             700 acres      1767   6 yrs arrears    
0 pd
John Hedges :             700 acres      1773  12 yrs arrears    
0 pd
Moses Jefferies :         346 acres      1773  1 yr arrears  
17/3 & 1/2 pd
John Hedges  :            700 acres      1777  16 yrs arrears  
?.17.6 pd
Moses Jefferies :         346 acres      1777  3 yrs arrears   
?.14.8 pd

Aronoco tobacco was the variety planted in Stafford, requiring 600 plants for each hogshead or caske. There were 1747 tithables in Stafford in 1724, of which 1605 were employed in tending 9,920,988 tobacco plants. The record states that 204 boys were allowed to care for 3000 plants each.

The Hedges crop of 1723 totaled 4432 plants, or seven and one-third casks. The Hedges tobacco crop was not an ambitious undertaking, with three or more individuals having only 4432 plants. Clothing was so expensive however, that the growing, weaving and spinning of flax and cotton could exceed the potential of tobacco. The caske of tobacco was worth ? . . or ? . . in 1730. while one pipe of good madeira wine was worth ?. . and the hire of a sloop for a week was ? . The prices of 1740 described a caske of tobacco being valued at ?. . The other common sources of income by trade were production of pork or beef which brought ?:4- ?:10 @ barrel; pipe staves at £ 3. . ; bee's wax production at 1/ per pound; deer and beaver skins at 2/ each; tar and turpentine production at 6/8 per barrel; and crops of wheat at 2/ @ bushel and corn at 1/ @ bushel as valued in 1740 also. Handicraft labor such as furniture making was very dear in that time., and furniture was in short supply, as was firewood.

The above figures indicate that a small crop would bring a handsome profit, however, there was a tobacco insurrection in January 1732, with four warehouses being burned in the Northern Neck within a month. Planters were not happy with the prices bid, while buyers were not happy with quality offered. There was also the risk of privateers, and the absence of insurance for those who became victims to piracy of their crop.

Thomas Hooper surveyed the Pohick/Accotinck area in 1716, and Mr. Robert Hedges (II) is noted on the 200 acre tract listed in the John Holmes will of 1698. This indicates that John Hedges had died prior to that date. The tithables list of 1724 lists Robert Hedges (II), Planter and John Hedges, age 12 years, however Robert Hedges III, who was the primary heir is not listed. The quitrent lists of 1737 lists both Robert Hedges, with 810 acres and John Hedges with 160 acres, and as the Law of Primogenitor was in full force making the eldest son the primary heir upon the death of the father we may surmise here that Robert Hedges III was the eldest, and that Robert Hedges (II) the father and patent holder died after he sold the 513 Holmes acres, and before the record of 1737. We have thus established roughly that his life was (cir l685-cir l730), with leeway for correction if necessary. Robert "R" Hedges (II) was the father of Robert Hedges III who wed Mary (Cotton), and who died in 1760. These generations are grandfather and father to Capt. John Hedges (cir l738-1804) and his younger brother Lieut. Robert Hedges (cir 1742-1793).

Thomas Harrison patented 294 acres on the main fork of Chopawamsick Creek on 16 Oct 1707. This is a repatent of the Burr Harrison patent, and also is the Thomas Harrison plantation called for in the Hedges Patent of 1708. Thomas Harrison also leased an adjoining tract for life from William Brandt. Thomas Harrison was the buyer and seller of the 200 acre Holmes tract, and lived next to the 313 acre Holmes tract, prior to the Hedges' patents on Chopawamsic Creek.

Samuel Matthews patented a 5,000 acre tract on Chopawamsick Creek in 1657. He sold 460 acres of this 5,000 acres to Ralph Smith, on 18 Novem 1681, the land surrounding Basye's hole branch. Ralph Cotton had this 460 acres in 1723, 200 acres of which were patented to him on 26 May 1712. William Bennett, uncle of Ralph Cotton, was the agent for issuance of this patent, He stated that Ralph Cotton was the heir-at-law of Ralph Smith, who was the original holder.

Robert "R" Hedges was the seller of the Holmes' tracts of land as the eldest son and heir-at-law of John Hedges, and we may surmise our literacy is restored or begins with the eldest son of this Robert Hedges, who was also named Robert Hedges (III). Robert Hedges III was of age in 1726 when he and his wife Mary (Cotton?) signed a lease on some Cotton acres where they both lived in that year. Robert Hedges III had a full signature and Mary signed with her mark, "M".

Henry Nelson, a tobacco planter, was the leasee. Henry Nelson leased other land also, and he raised double the tobacco that Robert Hedges and Richard Higgins raised. He also failed to keep the lease for the full fifteen years.

The quitrent lists of 1737 & 1738/39 show these tracts again in the possession of Robert Hedges. John Cotton later has possession of this 464 (survey correction) acres but a careful study of the deed does not reveal any previous purchase of this land.

1725 Stafford Will Bk K p. 127
_________Cotton inventory a/c vs _________Hedges

7 Novem 1726 Stafford Deed Bk 1722/28 p. 336/37
Hedges Lease to Nelson
This indenture made this seventh day of November, in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and twenty six, between Robert Hedges and Mary his wife of the county of Stafford and Parish of Overwharton and Colony of Virginia, Planter of the one part and Henry Nellson of the county aforesaid oft he other part : Witnesseth that the said Robert Hedges and Mary his wife have devised let to and to farm let to the said Henry Nellson his heirs executors administrators or assigns, one hundred acres of land to have and to hold for the full term of time of fifteen years, he the said Nellson paying his heirs executors administrators or assigns or either of them, to Robert Hedges and Mary his wife their heirs executors administrators or assigns yearly and every year on the Feast of St Michael the Archangel the fee rent of two shillings for the one hundred acres of land be it more or less bounded as follows: Vitz In the north side of Chopawamsick Creek on that tenement tract or parcel of land where the said Hedges and Mary his wife now live upon it on the north side of a run called Bays:his hole part of a tract of five thousand two hundred and eleven acres of land formally belonging to Samuel Mathias Gentleman being in the county of Stafford between the Creeks of Chopawamsick and Quanticott running up according to the meanders and courses of the said run called Beys:his hole to a branch called the canoe branch thence up the said branch to a path or bridal road that leads from Chopawamsick Ford to the mouth of Quanticott Creek thence along the said path holding the full breadth of the two hundred acres specified or mentioned in the patent granted to William Bennett on the behalf of Ralph Cotton bearing date the twenty sixth day of May ammo domini 1712 and also the full breadth of the said Creek Chopawamsick running up the said creek according to the meanders of the same to the mouth of Bays:his hole being the first beginning in all supposed to be one hundred acres of land being it more or less the said Nellson his heir executors administrators or assigns is quietly peaceably to possess occupy and enjoy the said hundred acres of land together with the houses outhouses barns stables orchards gardens and all the other privileges and appurtenances thereto belonging as fishing hawking hunting and fouling with all the other benefits and emoluments thereto belonging till the full term and time of fifteen years by fully completed and ended by these present and the said Robert Hedges and Mary his wife for themselves their executors and administrators and every of them do further covenant to warrant and defend the said one hundred acres of land be it more or less to the said Nelson his heirs executors and administrators and hereby do warrant and defend the said land from their heirs or either of them the said Hedges and Mary his wife whatsoever In testamony hereof we have hereunto interchangeably set our hands and affixed our seals the day and year above written
Witnesse Robert Hedges seal
David Davis Mary M Hedges seal
Anne A Murphy
At a court held for Stafford County the 9th day of Novem 1726 Robert Hedges and Mary his wife acknowledged this their deed of lease to Henry Nelson which is admitted to record
Test Catsby Cocke Ct Clk

1727 Stafford Will Bk K p 240
_________Cotton ___________Hedges

I surmise Mary Cotton had possession of this land, thereby having it available to inhabit and lease, until John Cotton was of age to care for his own affairs. John Cotton sold this land to John Hedges in 1776, with no entry in the body of the deed identifying its source. The indicator that Robert Hedges III possessed that tract earlier is the lease document of 1726 coupled with the 810 acre figure in the quitrents of 1737 & 1738/9, which is 346 acres plus 464 acres. Here we get a dwelling location and a related family, Cotton, and some further accounting of land which deeds identify and trace.

Ralph Cotton:                460 acres                          
1723
                         4126 tobacco plants

Robert Hedges:           810 acres                   1737/38/39
                            (464 + 346 acres)

John Cotton:           464 acres     1750/53/54/60/61/67
                                                                  
  
John Hedges purchase:           464 acres          1776

14 February 1727 Stafford Deed Bk 1722/28 p 498/89
Robert Hedges Lease to Thomas Owsley
This indenture made the fourteenth day of February in the year of our Lord God one thousand seven hundred and twenty seven between Robert Hedges of the Parish of Overwharton in the County of Stafford Planter on the one part and Thomas Owsley of the Parish and county aforesaid Planter on the other part. Witnesseth that the said Robert Hedges for and in consideration oft he sum of five shillings sterling to him in hand paid by the said Thomas Owsley at and before the insealing and delivery hereof the receipt whereof he doth hereby acknowledge hath and bargained and sold and by these present doth bargain and sell unto the said Thomas Owsley and his heirs and assigns all that messinage tenement and tract of land containing by estimation two hundred acres situate lying and being in the Parish and county aforesaid, Beginning at _____ just below the Plantation where William Green the Elder late of the parish and county aforesaid decd formally seated and so running up the runn called Accotinct the breadth of a hundred acres and the same breadth back and the said two hundred acres being part of a dividend or tract of land containing twelve hundred acres formally belonging to the said William Green having by several conveyances descended to the said Robert Hedges together with all and singular houses out houses and tobacco houses gardens orchards buildings fenceways and water and watercourses privileges commodities and appurtenances and whatsoever to the same belonging or in any way appurtaining To have and to hold the said premises with the appurtenances unto the said Thomas Owsley his heirs Executors Admrs and assigns from the day of the date hereof for and during and until the full end and term of one whole year from thence next ensuing fully to be complete and ended ______ the said Thomas Owsley his heirs Extrs Admrs and assigns therefore and thereof yielding and paying unto the said Robert Hedges his heirs Extrs Admrs or assigns on the Feast of the Nativity of the Blessed savior next ensuing the rent of one cask of indian corn if the same shall be lawfully demanded. Tot he intent by virtue of these present and by none of the _____ for transferring uses into possession of the said Thomas Owsley may be in possession of the actual premises and be hereby enabled to take and accept of against revision and inheritance thereof to him and his heirs forever. IN Witnesseth whereof the said Robert Hedges hath hereunto set his hand and seal the day month and year above written.
Robert "R" Hedges
Sealed and delivered in the presence of us the within five shillings being first paid Henry Fitzhugh junr Geo Mason John JB Brown At a court held for Stafford County the 13th day of March 1727 Robert Hedges acknowledged this his deed of the sale to Thomas Owsley which on his motion is admitted to record. Test Catsby Cocke Clrk

Robert Hedges Release to Thomas Owsley . . . .
. . . . formally belonging to William Green the Elder and by him left and devised to his son William Green the younger who by his deed bearing date the eleventh day of January one thousand six hundred and eighty five insosed and aliened the premises unto Thomas Harrison late of the county and parish aforesaid Planter which the said Thomas Harrison afterwards by his deed of the fifteenth day of November one thousand six hundred ninety two transferred unto a certain John Holmes late of the parish and county aforesaid Planter decd under whom the said Robert Hedges now claims the same . . . together with all and singular the houses outbuildings and tobacco houses gardens orchards buildings fences ways water and watercourses . . . .

13 August 1729 Stafford Co Deed Bk L p. 177 [missing]
Robert Hedges who by indenture of lease and release bearing date the twelfth and thirteenth days of August 1729 bargained and sold the same unto George Mason the Elder [III] who dying intestate the same descended unto his son George Mason [IIII] . . .the same land being a moiety of land which Anthony Battalia conveyed by . . . deed bearing date the twentieth day of March 1682 unto John Holmes who obtained confirmation of his title to the moiety of the said tract of land by a grant thereof made him by John Simpson by deed pole bearing date the thirteenth day of October 1697 and by his last will and testament bearing date the twenty sixth day of May 1698 devised the same unto a certain Robert Hedges . . . .

27 February 1743 Fairfax Deed Bk A p. 123
Extract of Deed containing Robert Hedges to Thomas Owsley Title . . . Thomas Harrison . . . by his deed bearing date the fifteenth day of November, one thousand six hundred and ninety two . . did bargain sell and convey unto John Holmes late of the said county of Stafford, Planter . . . two hundred acres of land . . . the said John Holmes by his last will and testament in writing bearing date the twenty sixth day of May one thousand six hundred ninety eight among other things did give and bequeath to his daughter Mary Holmes one hundred acres of the above mentioned land by the same of one hundred acres of his land lying on Accotinct if she should live to the age of twenty then to her and her heirs forever and did also thereby give and devise the residue of the above mentioned land by the side of his plantation at Accotinct to his son Daniel Holmes and his heirs forever but in case all the said testors children should die before they came of age then the said testator by his last will and testament did give and bequeath unto his brother-in-law his son John Hedges, all his whole estate both real and personal as by the said will remaining of record in the county courts of Stafford relation being thereunto had may likewise more at large appears and whereas all the said John Holmes children did die before they came of age and thereby and by virtue of the said John Holmes will the said John Hedges became seized among other things the above mentioned ________ tenement two hundred acres of land with the appurtenances in the demesne as affee and died so thereof seized whereby the same descended and came to Robert Hedges the eldest son and heir at law of the said John Hedges and whereas the said Robert Hedges by deeds of lease and release bearing date respectively the thirteenth and fourteenth days of February one thousand seven hundred and twenty seven for the consideration of the said release mentioned did grant bargain sell release and confirm unto Thomas Owsley of the said county of Stafford, Planter . . . two hundred acres of land . . 15 March 1743 Fairfax Co., Virginia Colony

Careful study of the preceding documents give the devising of land from John Holmes through John Hedges to Robert Hedges, patent holder of 1708 in Stafford on Chopawamsick Creek. I have labeled him Robert "R" Hedges, also Robert Hedges II, to parallel George Mason II, and other notable contemporary fathers and sons.

George Mason IV spent much of his youth on Chopawamsic Creek, at the Mason Plantation of 1220 acres called Chopawamsick, south of the Harrison and Carter lands. Steven Thomson Mason, son of Thomson Mason, who was first Attorney of the Bar in Dumfries, was born at Chopawamsic in 1760. The frugal Widow Mason debited young George Mason's (IIII) estates 1000 lbs. tobacco yearly for his support, so the presumption that he did not continuously live at Marlboro Plantation 16 miles away with his uncle is well founded.

Mr. George Mason III patented 1,930 acres on 5 Jan. 1714, in "Stafford", [ Virginia Land Registry Office, Richmond ]. George Mason II purchased 1,085 acres from Joseph Waugh in Overwharton Parish, and owned this before he died in 1716. [Stafford Records] One of these surveys will yield the plat of the Mason Chopawamsic Plantation.

Collo. George Mason II patented Hereford Manor with James Hereford on the neck between Accotinct and Dogue run, later Belvoir, on 4 Jan. 1714, 2,244 acres. The plat located in the Virginia Land Registry Office shows Mr. West's land, the Chapel, and the main county road.

This drawing is based on the Thomas Hooper survey of October 1716 for the Pohick/Accotinck creeks. It yields the Hedges dwellings and a "title", Mr Robert Hedges, from Master, a title of respect due to station. The present spot is on Fort Belvoir. A tourist today needs to drive in Gunston Rd. to the intersection leading to the north end of Pulliam Field (left) and turn right. There is a loop within this five-way intersection which is the center of the 200 acre tract.

20 Novem 1734 Prince William Co. Inventory of the estate of John Underwood decd made in obedience to the order of the court Total valuation. £ 4.7.0 Richard Higgins Robert Hedges 14 December 1734 Henry Nelson

26 May 1740 Prince William Co. Bond of Elizabeth Gaskin, Robert Hedges and Francis Searson for ??.0.0. Elizabeth X Gaskin Robert Hedges 26 May 1740 Francis Searson

• 1741 Prince William Co Deed Bk E p. 524 a-f
• 1741 - tally of vote
• Willm Fairfax - 249 - Robt Hedges choice
• Thos Harrison - 234 - Robt Hedges choice
• Collo John Colville - 175
• Valentine Peyton - 141
• Majr Blackburn - 29

20 June 1754 Fairfax Co Bk 1754/56 Pt I p. 116 Robert Hedges, witness from Prince William Co.

28 Jan 1754 Prince William Order Bk 1754/55 pp.7,63,270,277,320

Benjamin Grayson, Bertrand Ewell, and Foushee Tebbs are appointed to settle the estate of the orphans of William Triplett Gent deceased with Roger Chaimberland and their several guardians . . . . .

James Triplett, orphan of William Triplett Gent decd. . made choice of Robert Hedges for his guardian.

Francis Triplett, orphan of William Triplett, chooses Thomas Fleming for a guardian. . . . . .

27 May 1754 William Triplett decd estate returned and admitted to record . . . . On a motion of Robert Hedges, guardian for James Triplett, Bertrand Ewell, Burr Harrison, Foushee Tebbs, and John Dagg or any three of them are appointed to set apart the estate of the orphans of William Triplett deceased an possess the several guardians thereof.

25 Aug 1755 Robert Hedges produces an account against James Triplett . . . . and was allowed and admitted to record . . . . .

26 Aug 1755 Ordered that the money due in Robert Hedges' account against the orphans of William Triplett Gent be settled in tobacco at twelve and six pence.

25 Sept 1755 Philemon Waters vs James Triplett on Petition. Robert Hedges having attended eight days as a witness between Philemon Waters and James Triplett ordered that the said Philemon pay him for the same according to law.

The Dettingen Parish Churchwardens met at the Quantico Vestry House in Dumfries on Easter Sunday of 1752, and thereupon made plans to build a new church of stone to be 30 ft by 60 ft, to replace the original Chapel built in 1667, which was then Overwharton's north chapel.

The Protestant Episcopal Church was by English law the State Church, and they levied taxes on the tithables of the Parish to pay Ministers, maintain and build churches, buy land for Glebes, support the aged and infirm, and to place and train orphans. The tithables list was like a census of the parish.

The tithables of Dettingen Parish in Prince William Co numbered about 1060 persons for 1748, and the tax per person was 30 lbs. tobacco. Robert Hedges III received 300 lbs. tobacco as compensation for the burial of James Wilson in 1748.

The expansive building projects of the early 1750's caused the tax to rise to 60 lbs. tobacco, on 1277 persons, for 1755. Robert Hedges received 150 lbs. tobacco, for the keeping of John Lawn in 1755.

Robert Hedges paid 43 lbs. tobacco to Dettingen Parish in 1757, being among 1263 tithables, and he in turn received 650 lbs. tobacco for his keeping and burying John Lawn that year.

Dumfries was in its heyday then, as a rival to New York and Philadelphia for shipping tonnage, and Quantico Bay was enjoying a steady flow of vessels, and prosperity unmatched by later years.

28 Jan 1760 Prince William Court William Carr Gent vs Richard Higgins. Glassford & Co vs Richard Higgins. Ordered the attachment be issued against Robert Hedges the garnishee.

John Hedges was listed for jury duty in 1755, and this is no doubt the last entry for John Hedges (1711- _______). If this is a young Capt. John Hedges then his birth would be defined as cir 1734.

Robert Hedges and John Hedges are both customers of account in Daniel Payne's Store in Dumfries, as shown by the ledgers for 1758-1760.

28 July 1760 James Triplett and Daniel Triplett execute bond with Isaac Davis and John Hedges.

29 Jan 1760 Hugh Guttray vs John Hedges.

25 Aug 1761 Deed of Lease approved Guttray vs Hedges.

28 Apr 1760 Estate of John Dagg jr. Simon Litterell, Mason Bennett and John Hedges.

26 May 1760 Admin of the estate of Robert Hedges decd is granted to John Hedges, he having executed bond . . . . Ordered that James Triplett, John Dalton David Wise and Francis Purnell inventory and appraise the estate of Robert Hedges decd.

4 June 1760 James Triplett sells 423 acres on Chopawamsick to William Carr, adjoining the Hedges tract.

24 June 1760 Estate of Robert Hedges decd is returned, appraised and inventoried.

John Hedges senr (cir 1738-1804) possessed the estate of his father, Robert Hedges III (cir 1706- 1760) after the death of the latter. This estate is not as well documented as I hope it will become in the future, as we do not know the exact location or outline of the 700 acres listed in the quitrents, which is the center of domicile. John Hedges did advertise in 1768 that he lived within 4 miles of Dumfries. John Hedges senr wed his first wife____________________ ______________ and they had sons Robert Hedges (1760-1848); John Hedges jr ( - ______) and Samuel Pope Hedges (cir 1765- 1830). John Hedges senr kept Ordinary until 1760 before he assumed the status of Planter. An Ordinary was a tavern with ordinary dependable meals, and lodgings. John Hedges senr's Ordinary was sold to Nathaniel Overhall, and the location has yet to be established, as Dumfries research continues in the interesting and important hamlet.

27 May 1760, 31 July 1760, 23 Sept 1760, 29 July 1761 John Hedges jury duty James Triplett jury duty also

25 Aug 1760 Nathaniel Overhall granted a license to keep Ordinary where John Hedges once did

27 Aug 1760 John Hedges bail for Nathaniel Overhall

2 Oct 1761 Plea by Common Bail - John Hedges for Nathaniel Overhall, John Smallwood, Francis Purnell and John Cooper in debt.

25 May 1761 John Hedges vs John Calvert, the defendant hath a special imparlance granted him

26 May 1761 John Hedges vs Charles Highlander alias capias issued

31 July 1761 John Hedges vs Charles Highlander

2 Oct 1761 Bordwine Waters vs John Hedges. the defendant pleads not guilty, case referred to next court

12 March 1762 Prince William Deed Bk p. 262/63
Williams to Hedges Bill of Sale
An inventory from Thomas Williams to John Hedges
to one cow & calf yearling 35/
to one cow and yearling 35/ ?.10.0
to 24 hoggs 60/2
pieces furniture 60/2
potts and panns 10/ £ 6.10.0
to 2 chests & 2 tables & puter £ 1.10.0

Know all men by these present that I, Thomas Williams of the parrish of Dettingen and the county of Prince William, grantor hath bargained and sold unto John Hedges of the parrish and county aforesaid all and singular 2 cows and yearlings, 24 hoggs, 2 feather beds, two potts, one pan, two chests, two tables, and plate above mentioned for a valuable consideration of ?.10.0, which said articles are in the possession of the said John Hedges, therefore I the said Thos Williams, do warrant and defend the said cows and yearlings, hoggs, beds, potts, pan, chests, tables, and puter as witnessed to my hand and seal this 12th day of March, 1762 sealed and delivered in the presence of us Jas Triplett Robt Hedges Thos Williams first day of Novem 1762

28 July 1760 On the motion of William Ennis, it is ordered that the depositions of . . . . be taken to establish a negro named Dick given to him by Robert Hedges decd. The opinion of the court is that the negro is the property of William Ennis. The court ordered John Hedges to pay John Holliday for attending seven days as a witness.

24 March 1761 Hedges vs Ennis, the defendant hath a special imparlance granted to him

25 May 1761 Hedges vs Ennis, transferred to the Secretary's office before the 11th day of the next general court.

6 Feb 1764 Prince William Bk Q p 5
Annes (Ennis) to Hedges
Know all men by these present that I, William Anness of Loudoun County in the Colony of Virga, do by these present make over sell and convey unto John Hedges of the County of Prince William and colony aforesaid, one negro man slave named Dick for the valuable consideration of one hundred pounds current money of Virginia which said negro slave I hereby warrant and defend to the said John Hedges and his heirs or assigns against the claim or claims of me, my heirs extrs admrs, and assigns, and against all and every person and persons whatever subject nevertheless to this proviso and condition that if the above said William Ennis his heirs exectrs admsr shall surely pay or cause to be paid to the above named John Hedges or his heirs extrs admsr or assigns the sum of fifty pounds like current money with lawful interest thereon at or upon the tenth day of November in the year one thousand seven hundred and fifty five (?) ensuing the date hereof that then this bill of sale to cease and be of no effect, otherwise to remain in full power force vertue in witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand to seal this 7th day of June Anno- Dom 1763 William Anness
sealed in the presence of Frank Triplett, Dan Payne
acknowledged in Prince William Co. 6 Feb 1764

5 May 1766 Francis Purnell decd. Mason Bennett admin. John Hedges

7 Oct 1766 Hedges vs Waters et al

1766-1771 Deed Bk R p 355 missing
Hedges Deposition

2 Sept 1766 1783 The Tazewell Papers Thomas Scott vs John Hedges

The dealings with Glassford, Gordon, Monteith & Co., are
documented as follows. Glassford, Gordon, Monteith & Co. was the local
tobacco buyer with stores in Quantico & Dumfries, as is discussed in a
later chapter.

31 March 1759. Mr Robert Hedges
To 3 gallons rum 7/6 22/6
To 1 1/2 gals rum 7/6 11/3
£ 1.13.9
To 1 gal rum 7/6
7.6
£ 2.12.0
14 May 1759. By cash in full £ 2.15.0

19 March 1760 - Mr John Hedges
To 3/4 yds supsene blk clothes ? .17/6
To 3/4 ditto ?. 4/9
To 5 yds fine shalleon 4/6 22/6
To 2 doz large & 2 doz small buttons 5/
To 3 yds seth 3/ sapsonertives 12/6
To 2 oz thread 1/3
To 3 yds gasteaux 6/11
To mens supofine blk stocks 1/07
To 1 1/2 yds clamode 7/6
To 1/2 yds hat grape 4/12
To mittens, gloves 6/

25 April 1760 -
To 6 yds twilling 9/

May 21st 1760
To 1 doz slone cups & saucers 3/
To 1 teapot 1/6. bowl, linen handks 1/8
To Richard Higgins, his debt recovered by Attachment against Dec
father Robert Hedges £ 9. 01/2
To Officers fees, cost of suit as for bill -tob:120 tob.
To Wm Ellzey lawyers fee .15.

4 .17 .6
1 .4 .9
1 .7 .6
.6 .9
16
11 .7 1/2
6
12
4 .2
2 . 9 .0 1/2
.15
£ 13 .10 .4

2 August 1760 - John Hedges
By 1 hhgs tobacco on Quantico
[branded] IH 1606 1060 100 960
Due in tobacco 120
840 8.8
By 1 cask .3
By Ballance 8.11.6
4.19.4
£ 13.10.4

30 November 1762 - John Hedges
ballance from ledger D £ 4.19.4

19 January 1764 - John Hedges
To powder £ 22/10/6

20 June 1764 - John Hedges
To Enoch Grigsby by ballance
January 1765 ballance 5/6

13 October 1765 - John Hedges ballance 5/6

1 October 1767 - John Hedges
To ballance ledger E
To 2 1/2 yds broad clothe 30/ 75/
To 6 yds blacke shalloone 3/9 22/6
To 3 1/2 yds unille douglass 2/3 7/3
To 2 oz thread 1/3
To 6 laces 3
To 1 oz white thread 1/
To 1 pr mens gloves 1
To 1/2 mens alamsol 7/6
To half grape 2/6

5 March 1768 - John Hedges
To 1 sett knives & forks 10/

7 June 1768 - John Hedges
To 1 pair silk sartin 2/6 (garters?)
6 .7 .6
1 .8 .6
.5 .6
.8 .9 3/4
.10 .9
.10
. 2 .6
£ 9 .16 .6 3/4

To ballance from Ledger K £ 9.16.6 3/4
By ballance to Ledger L £ 9.16.6 3/4

13 March 1769 - John Hedges
To pair pinch buckles & knee buckles 1/3

May 2 1769 - John Hedges
To bushels salt 5/

£ 6.3 26 June 1769 - John Hedges
BY crop tobacco Quantico
[branded] IH 1509 1191 96 1095
cash 30
1125
due in tobacco 1105
20

17 July 1769 - John Hedges
To George Mason Esq. 1075 tobacco & cask
1105
1105 £ 10.2.9 3/4
£ 6.3

October 1771 - John Hedges
ballance transferred to ledger M £ 7.8.4
9 Sept 1772 - paid

13 Sept 1773 - John Hedges
To Officers Fee for cost of suit viz Lawyers fee and tax 16/3
ballance £ 9.7.10
18 July 1774 paid

John Hedges had the misfortune to be the victim of Horse thieves in 1766 and 1768, as listed in the Virginia Gazette in those years.

STRAYED OR STOLEN
24 Oct 1766
Taken in Prince William, a black mare about 13 hands and a half high foaled the fifteenth of July, and branded on the near buttock R.C. (Ralph Cotton?)
John Hedges

STOLEN from My Yelverton Peyton's Ordinary in Aquila in Stafford County on the 5th day of May, a blue gray mare, about 13 hands 3 inches, branded on the near shoulder with a H____ and paces well. Also stolen with the mare a very good saddle and bridle London made. Any person who secures the said mare and apprehends the thief shall have ten dollars reward, paid by the subscriber, within four miles of Dumfries.
May 26 1768
John Hedges