John Bass Jr (abt. 1700 - aft. 1777)

Born about 20 Feb 1700 in Nansemond County, Virginia Colony [uncertain]

Ancestors

Husband of Elizabeth Jordan (Winborne) Bass — married 18 Jan 1732 in Bertie County, North Carolina Colony

Descendants

Died after 11 Mar 1777 after about age 77 in Northampton, North Carolina, United States

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Biography

John Bass Jr was a North Carolina colonist.

John, son of John Bass and Love Harris, was born about 1700 in Nansemond County, Virginia Colony. Although his parents married in North Carolina, they returned to live in Virginia for several years. They were still living there in 1701 and moved to North Carolina by 1719.

Many researches list Moses Bass as second son of John and Love Bass. For reasons explained on his profile he appears to have been much younger. John, Jr. appears to have been second son. He was named as co-executor with his brother Edward Bass in his father's will. By 1722 he had already started to purchase land in North Carolina indicating a birth year about 1700. By the time of his father's death in 1732, John Jr. had acquired, by purchase or grant, over 700 acres of land. Which may explain why he was left no land by his father, only his "old square Mousled gun."

John married Elizabeth Winborn on 18 January 1732 in Bertie County, North Carolina (Northampton County in 1741). ^{[citation needed]} Children named in John's will: Jacob, John, Abraham, Issac, Jethro, Drury Bass, and Alse Earp, Undin Council and Elizabeth Brittle. Some also add a son Thomas, although no Thomas is named in John's will.

John remained in Northampton County until his death. In October and December 1742 he purchased land from his brothers Edward and William which had been left to them in their father's will.

In 1747 John gifted 100 acres of land to John Taylor, son of his sister Elizabeth (Bass) Taylor. Elizabeth had not been named in their father's will. He made other gifts of land to his grandson Job Bass, son of Isaac Bass, and to his son Jethro Bass. In 1750 John sold to his son, John, Jr., for "40 sterling money of Great Britain 500 acres that plantation of mine..."

Know all men that I John Bass of Northampton County in the provence of North Carolina being sick of sound mind and memory do make constitute and appoint and ordain this my last will and testament in manner and form following. Item I give devise and bequeath unto my son Jacob Bass one negro girl named Beck and her increase, Item I give devise and bequeath unto my son Issac Bass two negro women named Rose and Moll and their increase one feather Bed and furnichure and a mare colt called Pleasure. Item I give devise bequeath unto my Grandson John Bass son of Issac Bass a negro girl named Fanny and her increase. Item, I give devise and bequeath unto my son Abraham Bass one negro girl named Philles and her increase. Item, I give devise and bequeath unto my grandson Job Bass one negro girl named Queen and her increase and one feather bed and furnichure. Item I give devise and bequeath unto my grandson Council Bass son of Jethro Bass my land and plantations whereon I now do live containing two hundred acres more or less my negro fellow named Sharper my still (cap and ??) and a negro boy named Scotland to him his heirs and assigns forever. Item I give devise and bequeath unto my grandson Uriah Bass son of Drury my land and Plantation whereon the said Drury now lives containing one hundred acres more or less joining Dickhomny Branch and Mass Halls line also the half of my land lying in Uriah Swamp joining Col. Dawson's line also a negro woman named Hannanh and her increase hereafter also a negro boy named Ben to him his heirs and assigns forever. Item I give devise and bequeath unto my Daughter Alic Enpi (?) one negro woman named Peg and her increase also one negro boy named Pompey. Item I lend unto my daughter Undice Councill the use of one negro woman named Dinah and her increase during her life and at her (?) I give devise and bequeath the said negro woman Dinah and her increase aforesaid to be equally divided between or amongst her children. Item I give devise and bequeath unto my Grandson Jesse Battle (Bittle?) son of John Battle the land and Plantations whereon the said John Battle lives and containing two hundred acres more or less bounded on an agreed line already made also 100 acres adjoining my son Jethro's land an agreed line already made and joining Charles Bryan's line. Also 50 acre of land I purchased of John Kerrey according to the most known and published bounds thereof. Also one negro girl named Jane and her increase to him his heirs and assigns forever. I give devise and bequeath unto my grand daughter Winnifred Battle one negro boy named Davy. I give unto my grandson John Battle one negro girl and increase named Patt. Item I give unto my grandaughter Margaret Battle one negro girl named Rachel and her increase. Item I give devised and bequeath unto my grandson Drury Battle a negro boy named Ishan (Joham?). Item I give unto my Daughter Elizabeth Battle one negro woman named Judith and her increase hereafter. Item I give devise and bequeath all the remainder of my estate that is not in my will given away to be equally divided between or amongst my children namely Jacob, John, Abraham, Issac, Jethro and Drury Bass also Earp Undice Councill (Alc?) and Elizabeth Battle to their heirs and assigns forever. Item I do hereby ordain constitute and appoint my esteamed friend John Know my son John Bass and Richard Deal (Neal?) my whole and sole executors of this my last will and testament hereby annulling and making void all former wills and testaments by me heretofore made and this only to be my last will and testament In witness whereof I have hereby set my hand and seal this fourteenth day of June one thousand seven hundred and seventy-seven. John Bass (signed with an "X") Signed sealed and published and declared by the testator to be his last will and testament in presence of Thomas Knox Moses Hall William Love John Larsiner (?) The preceding will of John Bass was exhibited in court proved by the oath of Willian Love one of the subscribing witnesses. Name Variation Letter (E) not part of his name. Used only for identification purposes

John BASS North Carolina Records 1720 to 1797

This is a summary of information about three John BASSES who died in North Carolina 1732, 1777 and 1786 respectively.This document is the results of looking for the progenitors of Jacob BASS “of Franklin Co. NC” who died about 1794.

A short history, relating to the formation of Halifax County.
Beech Swamp is located in the southeastern part of Halifax County. Fishing Creek is the dividing line between Halifax and Edgecombe/Nash counties. Beech Swamp runs north off Fishing Creek. Cow Haul Swamp runs east off Beech Swamp, the two meet near Fishing Creek. Halifax County was formed in 1758 from Edgecombe County. Edgecombe County was formed from Bertie County in 1741. (Note Some early Edgecombe County Records are found in Halifax County). Bertie County was formed form Chowan County in 1722. Chowan County was formed from Albemarle County in 1670. Albemarle County was one of the original counties.

Key to Johns (used for evaluating evidence): A. Jacob’s Brother and son of John (B) (say 1725 - 1786) B. Father of Jacob and John (A). (say 1700 - 1777) C. Father of Edward and William (say 1673 - 1732) D. Son of John (C) E. Son of Issac (Grandson ofJohn (B)

Conclusion: It is known that John Bass ( marked as (A)) of Halifax county is the brother of Jacob Bass of Franklin Co. NC (See Jacob Bass Paper). It is also known that John Bass (marked (B)) of Northampton Co. is the father of Jacob and John (A). By John (B) Bass’s will of 1777 we know the other children of John (B) are Thomas, Elizabeth, Alice, Issac, Drury, Abraham, Eurdice and Jethro. Northampton deed book 2 page 185 notes the gift of John Bass to his son Jethro the land sold to John Bass by William Bass on 30 Dec 1742. Northampton deed book 1 page 56 records the sale of William Bass to John Bass. The deed indicates the land left to him by his father will is adjacent to the land John bought from his brother Edward. Northampton deed book 1 page 40 records the deed of the sale of Edward Bass to John Bass. Edward sold to John the “plantation whereon my father John Bass lived. The 1732 will of John Bass leaves to Edward “the plantation whereon I live”. Land was left to William Bass. John was given a Gun. Considering John (father of Jacob) had a brother name Jethro and that this John had brothers William and Edward, the evidence then seems to point to John (d. 1732) is the father of John (d.1777, Father of Jacob).

1663 Albemarle County one of the original counties.

Key to map:label 2 indicates the Beech Swamp area.

1670 Chowan (originally called Shaftsbury) County created from Albemarle County.

1722 Bertie County created from Chowan County.

1723 Bertie DB A:105 William Bennett of Albemarle Co. Chowan Precinct deed to John (?) Bass Sr. of Perquimans Precinct for £37 Sterling money of Great Britain 200 acres of land in Chowan Precinct between Maharra Swamp and Yeorbrough adjoining Richard Washington’s land Pollock’s and Valentine Braswell’s lines 16 July 1722 proved May ct 1723.

Bertie DB A:105 William Bennett of Albemarle Co. Chowan Precinct deed to John (?) Bass Jr. of aforesaid county and Precinct for £15 Sterling money of Great Britain 200 acres of land in Chowan Precinct between Maharra Swamp and Yeorbrough adjoining William Bryant’s land and Thomas Kirby and Richard Washington’s corner 10 Apr 1722 proved May ct 1723.

1727 Land Grant Records File 1041 Record book 3 page 213 John (?) Bass Jr. was granted 410 acres of land on the north side of Morattock (Roanoke River) and on the south side of Bear Swamp, Joining Robert House 2 Aug 1727

Bertie Deed Book B, page 348 Jan 17, 1727/8 proved Feb Ct. 1727 James Hutchinson of Bertie, for £5 sterling, deed of sale to John (?) Bass, Jr. for 100 acres of land in Bertie, beginneng at mouth of Plaquet Branch on Antonkey Marsh and adjoining Eardy Council.

Bertie Deed Book B, page 360: Jan. 17, l727/8--February Court 1727--James Hutchinson of Bertie to John (?) Bass, Jr., of same precinct bond for a debt of £150, N. C. money, and for a deed of even date, (Mortgage)

1729 Bertie Deed Book C; page 126: Aug. 12, 1729 August Court, 1729--Thomas Bryant of Bertie to John (?) Bass for £10 current money of N.C. 100. acres of land on the south side of Yourrah Swamp on north side of Roanoke River in Bertie Co. adjoining William Whiteheads patent, part of a grant to William Whittihead, Frances Bryant acknowledged

Bertie Deed Book C. page 135: Aug, 1, 172--proved August Court 1729--William Whitehead of Bertie precinct, NC, for £10 current money of NC deed to John (?) Bass of same precinct 100 acres of land in Bertie, adjoining Edward Bass Witnesses James Howard and Edd Outlaw

1732 Vol.II, page 48, NC Wills 1662-1749, North Carolina State Archives, Raleigh Will of John (C) Bass, dated Jan 18, 1732 proved Feb Court Bertie County, 1732 Son - Edward Bass my manor plantation where I now live except ....and liberty of said plantation for my loving wife Mary for her lifetime for the bringing up of my small children Son - William Bass, my land at ye Beaver Dam south through the swamp .... to a dividing line Grandson, Aron Johnston, 100 acres more or less of land on north side of Uraha Swamp Daughter, Joudath Canaday, 100 acres of land lying on south side of Uraha Swamp adjoining James Hutchenson's line Loving Friend - Daniel Wharten Burbogg, 50 acres of land on north side of Quarter Swamp Dau. Sarah Anderson - 100 acres of land on north side of Uraha Swamp the most convenient land to the plantation where she now lives Daughter, Loucy Bass - 100 acres of land on north side of Uraha Swamp Daughter, Mary - 100 acres of land on north side of Uraha Swamp. Son, Aron Bass - my plantation on south- side of Barre Swamp whereon.... lives and all the high land from my upper line and so down to the great pine branch. Daughter, paisence Bass, my plantation on the south side of Baire kamp that I bought of William Johnston and all the land from the Great Branch above the plantation down to the lower line. Son, Moses--Bass all my land that lyeth on the north side of Baire Swamp which is adjoining my brother Edward's line including all the swamp to my son My Will is further that if my loving wife should again marry then my sons Edward and William Bass to have half the benefit of my orchards on my manor plantation. Son; John (D) Bass, my old square mosled gun. Wife, I give unto my loving wife the third of my movables and all the remainder of my estate both within and without doors to be equally divided amongst my said last Wife's children. Executors: loving sons John (Bass and Edward Bass together with my loving wife as a .... executor during her widowhood 18 Jan 1732 Proved Feb Court Bertie County 1732 (1748 Mary Staples widow of John(C) Bass Senr sold her dower rights to John (?) BASS)

1736 Halifax Co. Deed Book 1 page 164.*** Joseph Lane of Edgecombe Precinct deeds to John (?) Bass of Bertie Precinct, for £20 current money of VA 200 acres in Edgecombe on the North side of Fishing Creek and also joining Beech Swamp. 16 Aug 1736.

1739 Bertie Deed Book E, page 530: Jan 30, 1738--proved November Court 1739--John (?) Bass of Bertie Precinct planter, deeds to George Anderson of same precinct, planter for £10 silver money, 260 acres of land whereon said George Anderson now lives, on north side of Moratoke River (Roanoke River) and south side of Bear Swamp, joining Robert House, part of a patent granted John (?) Bass Jr. for 410 acres

1740 Bertie Deed Book F, page 190: Dec. 16, l740--proved Feb Court 1740--James and Hardy Casin of Edgecombe County, planters, for £30 current money of Virginia, deed to John (?) Bass of Bertie County, planter, 15O acres on the north side of Roanoke River in Uraha Woods, joining William Thomas, Edward Arpe, part of a patent granted Henry Sims for 360 acres on March 1, 1719.

1741 Edgecombe County created from Bertie County (Early deeds see Halifax County) Northampton County created from Bertie County.

1742 Northampton Co Deed Book 1 page 40*<<<<<<<<< Edward Bass deeds to John (D) Bass, both of Northampton Co., for £48 VA currency, “that plantation of mine, whereon I now dwell, and the plantation of my Father, John (C) Bass, deceased, lived on, with 200 acres of land to the said plantation belonging, also all my rght, title and interest in all my swamp lands,” joining Richard Washington and others. 2 Oct 1742 proved Nov court 1742.

Northampton Co Deed Book 1. Page 56 *** William Bass of Northampton Co. deeds to John (D) Bass of the same county, for £25 current money of VA, 200 acres , “the plantation whereon I now dwell, given me by the will of my father, John (C) Bass, deceased, joining Urahaw Swamp, lands of Thos. Bryan, dec’d, Edward Bass, Senr., and said John (D) Bass ( land purchased from his brother Edward), being John(2) 30 Dec 1742 proved Feb Court 1742(1742/3)

1743 Northampton Co. Deed Book 1 page 78 Daniel Wharton of Northampton Co. to Edward Taylor of Northampton Co., planter for £8 current money of VA. 50 acres more or less on the North side of Hunting Quarter Swamp, joining Tony’s path and the First branch, the same land bequeathed to the sd. Wharton by the Last Will and Testament of John (C) Bass, late of Bertie Co. decd. 21 April 1743 proved May Ct. 1743

1744 North Hampton Co. Deed Book 1 page 169 John (?) Bass deeds to Jas. Hutcheson, both of Northampton Co. for £10 VA money, 100 acres on the south side of Auntanky Marsh in Northampton Co., joining James Barnes and the county line. 20 Feb 1744 proved Feb Ct 1744(1744/5.

1745 Northampton Co. Deed Book 1 page 225 John Reddick of Perquimans Co., for £5 current silver money of VA deed to John (B) Bass Sr. of Northampton Co, 100 acres on the south side of Auntanky Marsh.30 Dec 1745, proved Feb Ct. 1745/6. Witnesses Jacob Bass, Abraham Bass, and John (C) Bass Jr.

1746 Northampton Deed Book 1 page 284 Thomas Smith of Edgecombe Co., for £4 current silver money of VA deeds to Jacob Bass of Northampton Co., 100 acres, part of a tract in Northampton co. Joining John (?) Bass, Goughrack Swamp, Doctor’ Peels Path .6 Feb 1746,proved Feb Ct. 1746.Witnesses: Abraham Bass, John (?) Bass and John Sutton

1747 Northampton Deed Book 1 page 321 *** John (A?) Bass of Northampton co., for love and affection for “ my sister Elizabeth, the now wife of Edward Taylor of North Hampton Co. Planter,” deed to John Taylor, son of said Elizabeth, 100 acres of land in Northampton Co. on the south side of Quarter Swamp. 6 Nov 1747, proved Nov Ct. 1747.

1748 Halifax Co. Deed Book 3, page 319 (Would be Edgecombe at this time) James Drake deeds to Jacob Bass 200 Acres of land in Edgecombe County on Tumbling Creek. Feb 20 1748 proved Feb Court Edgecombe County (North West Nash County)

Northampton Co. Deed Book 1 page 342 * Jacob Bass of Northampton Co. Deeds to William Winbourn of Nansemond Co VA, for £6 VA money, 100 Acres joining Thomas Smith, Henry Sims and on Uraka Swamp.4 Mar 1748 proved May Ct. 1748

Northampton Co. Deed book 1 page 343 * John and Elizabeth Bass of Northampton Co. deed to William Winbourn of Nansemond Co. VA, for £60, 150 acres on the north side of Roanoke River in Uraka Woods and joining Matthew Thomas, part of patent granted to Henry Sims. 4 Mar 1748, proved May Ct. 1748 Witnesses: Thomas flowers, Jas Osborne, Jacob Bass.

Northampton Deed Book 1 page 353 *** William Bridgers, for £9, VA money deeds to John (B) Bass of NorthHampton VA. 150 acrers in Northampton, joining hardy Council and Wm. Bryant. 25 May 1748 proved Aug Ct. 1748

Northampton Deed book 1 page 356 *** Mary Staples of Northampton Co. widow of John(C) Bass Senr., for £3 10s, current silver money of VA, deeds to John (?) Bass “all my rights of dower in the plantation and thirds of property to me as a widow” 21 Nov 1748 Proved Nov Ct. 1748.Witnesses Wm. Bokkie, Isaac Bass, John Sutton

Northampton Deed Book 1 page 413 *** Isaac Edwards of Northampton Co., deeds to John (?) Bass of Edenton, Chowan Co. for £30 current money of VA, 500 acres in Northampton Co.joining little Swamp

1750 Halifax Co. Deed Book 3 page 521 *** (would Be Edgecombe at this time) John (B) Bass Sr. of Northampton Co. NC deeds to John (A) Bass Jr. of Edgecombe Co. for £40 sterling “that plantation of mine situate in Edgecombe County between Beech Swamp and Fishing Creek, being the plantation whereon the said John (A) Bass Jr., now lives and 500 acres of land, 200 acres of said land granted to John (B) Bass Sr. by patent dated 25 July 1743. Aug 20, 1750 proved Aug Court 1750.

1754 Halifax Deed Book 2 page 23. (would be Edgecombe at this time) Alexander McDaniel for £15, deeds to John (B) Bass Sr. of Northampton Co. NC 100 acres of land in Edgecombe Co. on the south side of Fishing Creek. 14 May 1754

1755 Halifax Deed Book 2 page 207 (Would be Edgecombe at this time) John (B) Bass Sr. of Northampton co. NC deeds to his son Job Bass 100 acres of land in Edgecombe Co. on the south side of fishing Creek 19 Feb 1755 proved in Feb Court 1755 (Job moved to SC in 1768) (Not mentioned in his father will in 1777)

Northampton Deed Book 2 page 185 John (B) Bass of Northampton Co. for love to his son Jethro Bass of same county, deed of gift for 200 acres grant of land John (B) Bass purchased of William Bass on dec 30 1742. 24 Feb 1755 proved Feb Ct. 1755

LAND GRANT OFFICE, RAIEIGH NC Record Book. 11, page 129 Nov. ll, 1755--John (A) Bass was granted 133 acres in Edgecombe County (Now Halifax Co.) on south side of Beach Swamp joining William Middleton and James Bird.

1758 Halifax County created from Edgecombe County

1758 Lord Granville File 0285 file (62-E ***) John (A) Bass 590 acres in Edgecombe Co on North side of Fishing Creek. joining William Binum, Thos Alsobrook, Entered 22 Feb 1758, extended 26 Feb 1760. Note: 1 April 1760 Survey gives it to Halifax Co. (See Land office record 1760)

1760 NC Land Office Record Book 14 page 115 John (A) Bass 590 acres in Halifax joining William Binum, John Evans, Thois Alsobrook 10 Oct 1760. (See 1758 Lord Granville File 62-E***)

1761 Northampton Deed Book 3 page 121 John (B) Bass of Northampton Co., for 25 s, deeds Thomas Hays of Same Co. 50 acres in said county on the south side of Bear Swamp and joining Green Hill.24 May 1761, proved Aug Ct. 1761

1762 Northampton Deed Book 3 page 180 *** Charles Counsel and his heirs of Northampton Co. deed to John (B) Bass of Same County 120 acres in Northampton Co. in Uraha Swamp, joining Col. Dason’s corner@ aug 1762 provrd Aug Ct. 1762

Northampton Deed Book 4, page 124 Aug 2, 1762--proved March Ct, 1768--Charles Counsel, of Northampton County deeds to John (B) Bass of same county, for £10 proc. 120 acres in Northampton County In Uraha Swamp and joining Col. Dawson, Jethro Bass part of grant to said Counsel of July 28, 1761

Halifax Co. Deed Book 8, page 168 John (A) Bass of Halifax Co. deeds to Richard Merritt, for £15 proclamation money, 455 acres of land in Halifax Co. on Cow Hall Swamp. Sept 16, 1762 proved Sept Court 1762

Halifax Co. Deed Book 8 page 264 John (A) Bass of Halifax Co. deeds to Lewis Sturdivant, for £12.10s, 250 acres on east side of Cow Hall Swamp.Sept 17, 1762 Proved Oct court 1764

1764 Halifax Co. Deed Book 9, page 64 Lord Granville deeds to John (A) Bass of Halifax Co., planter, 590 acres of land in the parish of Edcombe, Halifax County, joining William Binum, John Ewing, Thomas Allsbrook Dec 10, 1760, proved in Oct court 1764

Halifax Co. Deed Book 9, page 65 Lord Granville deeds to John (A) Bass of Halifax Co. 410 acres of land in the parish of Edcombe and Halifax County, joining Jacob O’Daniel and John Young. Dec 11, 1760 proved in Oct Court 1764

1765 Halifax Co. Deed Book 9, page 174 John Yates deeds to John (A) Bass of Halifax Co., for £25 current money, 80 acres of land in Halifax Co.Jan 15 1765,proved April court 1765

1768 Northampton Deed Book 4, page 202 Dec. 1, 1768---proved Dec Ct, 1768--John (B) Bass of Northampton "for love, goodwill and affection which I have and do bear unto w well esteemed friend Margaret Murfree, window in and of said county," niture and lands, "to take place after the decease of me, the said John (B) Bass, and not before" "all that tract of land that I had of William Bennett," joining land of Thomas Knox Witnesses: John Duke, Sarah Duke, Esther Hollowell.

1769 Halifax Co. Deed Book 10 page 516 James Perry of Halifax Co. deeds to John (A) Bass of same county, for £16 current money of VA, 100 acres of land in Halifax Co. on the north side of Beech Swamp. Nov 19, 1769 proved Nov Court 1769

1770 Northampton Deed Book 5, page 6 Feb. 5; l770--proved March Ct, 1770--Jethro Bass of Northampton County for £10 proc., deeds Alce Earp of same county (woman) 50 Acres in Northampton County in Uraha Stramp, Green Hill's corner, Quarter Swamp, Wolfpit Branch.

Northampton Deed Bock 5 page 10 Feb 15,1770--proved March Court 1770--John (B) Bass, Senr, of Northampton County; for £10 proc deeds to Jethro Bass of county, 100 acreg in Northampton County joining Bear Swamp Green Hill, Jeremiah Cannon and Daniel Pruett.

1771 Halifax Co. Deed Book 11 page 274 Benjamin Whitehead of Halifax Co. to John (A) Bass of same county, for £100 proclamation money, 249 acres of land in Halifax Co.Jan 24, 1771 proved August Court 1771

Halifax Co. Deed Book 12 page 32 John (A) Bass of Halifax Co. deeds to Philip Perry of same county, for £20 current money of VA, 100 acres in Halifax Co. on north side of Beech Swamp.

1777 Northampton Deed Book 6, page 125: Feb. 2 l777--proved March Court, 1777— John (A) Bass of Northampton County for £1O proc., deeds to Jethro Bass 200 acres in Northampton joining Yonahaw Swamp, Knox, Canaday, Wolfpit Branch, Bryant, Hill, and Alce Earp.

Northampton Co.Will Book 1 page 292 *** Will of John (B) Bass (Sr.) dated 14 June 1777 proved Sept Court 1777. Sons: Jacob Bass, Issac Bass, Abraham, John, Jethro, Drury, Daughters: Alce Erpe(Earp), Euridice Councill, Elizabeth(m. John Bittle) Grandsons: John (E) Bass (Isaac), Job, Council (Jethro), Uriah (Drury), Jesse Bittle ,John Bittle, Drury Bittle, Granddaughter: Winnefred Bittle, Margaret Bittle,

Northampton Deed Book 6 page 175 *** We the subscribers, by will of John (B) Bass, late of Northampton County NC. Decid, joint heirs of one halftract of land lying in Urahaw Swamp, adjoining the lands of Col. Dawson and that given in said will to Uriah Bass, and we for ourselves do herby assing [assign] our right in sd land to Jesse Bittle son of John Bittle 31 July 1777 proved Dec ct 1777 Signed: Jacob Bass, Isaac Bass, John (A) Bass, Abraham Bass Jethro Bass, Demsey Bass, Alce Earp, Eudodie Counsel, Elizabeth Bittle.

1780 Halifax Deed Book 14, page 604 *** State Grant to John (A) Bass for 214 acres in Halifax Co. joining his own land.March 1, 1780

Halifax Deed Book 14 page 605 *** State Grant to John (A) Bass for 16 acres in Halifax Co. joining his own land and on both sides of Fishing Creek.March 1, 1780

1782 Halifax Deed Book 14 page 606 *** State Grant to John (A) Bass for 30 acres in Halifax Co. joining his own land.Oct 20, 1782

1784 Halifax Deed Book 16 page 3 *** State Grant to John (A) Bass for 210 acres in Halifax Co on Beech Swamp and Fishing Creek. joining Cotton and Merritt.Oct 27, 1784 <<>> NC Land Office Records File Halifax No. 397 * NC Sec of State Land Grant Book 56:298*** John (A) Bass was granted 210 acres in Halifax Co. between Fishing Creek and Beech Swamp, joining his old deed for 300 acres in fork of said creek and swamp, acording to plat. Entered 25 April 1780,resurveyed 10 Dec 1782, recorded 27 Oct 1784

1785 Northampton Deed Book 7 page 298 *** (No property description given, area by “estimation”). Jacob Bass of Franklin co. deeds to Demsey Bass of Northampton Co. for 2 young negros, two tracts of land bequeathed to Uriah Bass De’d by John (B) Bass of Northampton Co. dec’d and said Uriah being dead without issue, falls on me as heir at law – first tract 150 acres by deed to John (B) Bass from William Bridges May 17, 17(48), second tract in Uraha Swamp, 60 acres as by deed to John (B) Bass from Charles Council 2 Aug 1762 27 Jan 1785 proved March Court 1785

1786 Halifax Co. Will book 3 page 116 *** Will of John (A) Bass of Halifax Co. Wife Ann Bass, Brothers Isacs Bass, Jacob Bass (Land on West side of Beech Swamp.)Oct 4, 1786,proved Nov Court 1786

Wife Ann Bass during her widow hood ‘ the land and plantation where I now live,” certain negros, furniture and livestock, an directs that his executors “sell all my estate that I do not give away and equally divide amoung my brothers and sisters..” Brother Isaac Bass, “land where I live after my wife’s marriage.” Brother Jacob Bass, “land on the west side of Beech Swamp.” Rest of my estate to be divided among all my brothers and sisters. Executrix, Wife Ann Bass, and Executor: neighbor Robert Cotton. Witnesses: William Cotton, David Kauffman, and Jessie Rives.

1787 Halifax Co. Deed Book 16 Page 484 *** Jacob Bass of Franklin Co. deeds to Thomas Lowery of Halifax Co. for £300 specie, 311 acres of land which is two tracts, granted to John (A) Bass Oct 24, 1784 and March 1, 1780, adjoining Merrit Spear, Thomas Lowery,it being two tracts of land left by will to the said Jacob Bass by his brother John (A) Bass. Dec 10, 1787 proved Feb court 1788

1788 Halifax Co. Deed book 17 page 167 *** (no property line directions or distances given) Jacob Bass of Franklin County NC. To Soloman Bass of Halifax County NC for £300 current money, 249 acres in one tract granted to Wm. Bynum and another tract granted to John (?) Bass.The whole 400 acres joining Merritt, Whitehead, Merrit, Brdley, Bynum, Spiers, Cow hall Swamp.Nov 6, 1789 proved Feb court 1790 (in 1771 B. Whitehead deaded to John (?) Bass 249 acres could this be that 249 acres)

1789 Halifax Co. Deed Book 17 page 218 *** Jacob Bass to Jesse Haynie, for £30 deed for 77 acres in Halifax county Part of a tract granted to John (?) Bass on Cow Hawl and joining Thomas Bradley and others .20 Jan 1789 proved Aug Court 1791. Witnesses Thos. Lowery, James Merritt and Nathan Spears.

1790 Northampton deed book 8 page 267 Dempsey bass deed *** Demsey Bass to Wm. Bittle slaves for 143 acres

Locations:

Antonkey Marsh (Bertie 1727) Exact location unknown

Bear Swamp (Northampton Co.) Rises in the central part of the county and flow southeast into Urahaw Swamp.It runs into about half way between Quarter Swamp and Potecasi Creek.

Beech Swamp (Halifax Co.)Runs North then North West off Fishing Creek.It runs into Fishing Creek about midway of the Halifax – Edgecombe County line

Cow Haul Swamp (Halifax Co.) Runs East off Beech Swamp. It runs into Beech Swamp about 3/8 of a mile from where Beech Swamp runs into Fishing Creek.

Fishing Creek (Halifax Co.)Runs in general southeastern direction.It forms the upper 2/3 of the dividing line between Halifax and Edgecombe Counties.

Little Swamp (Northampton Co.) Location Unknown.

Maharra Swamp (Bertie 1723) Exact location unknown.

Moratoke Riversee Roanoke River.

Plaquet Branch(bertie 1727) Exact location unknown.

Quarter Swamp (Northampton Co.)rises in the central part of the county and runs southeast into western end of Urahaw Swamp.

Roanoke River(Northamton Co.) Forms the southern border of Northampton Co and the northern border of Halifax Co.

Urahaw Swamp (Northamton Co.) rises in southern part of the county and flows northeast into Potecasi Creek in eastern part of the county.

Uraka Woods (Northamton Co.) Location unknown. Possibly Urahaw.

Wolfpit Branch (Northampton Co.) Exact location unknown.

Timeline

• 16 July 1722 William Bennett & wife Grace Bennett of Albemarle Co. Chowan Precinct deed to John Bass Jr. of Perquimans Precinct for £37 Sterling money of Great Britain 200 acres adjoining Urahaw Swamp; proved May Court 1723.^[1] This sale of land to John Bass, Jr. indicates he was at least age 21 in 1722, so born about 1700-1701.
• 14 May 1723 Grace Bennett to Thomas Bryant - Power of Attorney, at Court held at James Howard's to ack to John Bass, Sen. and John Bass, Jun. "my right of Dowrie and power of thirds" to all lands sold by my husband, William Bennett to aforesaid Basses. Wts: Henry Sims, Charles Merritt (No court date)^[2]
• 17 January 1727/8 James Hutchinson of Bertie, for £5 sterling, deed of sale to John Bass, Jr. for 100 acres of land in Bertie, beginning at mouth of Plaquet Branch on Antonkey Marsh and adjoining Eardy Council.^[3]
• 2 August 1727 Land grant 410 acres on the North side of the Morattock joining the South side of Bear Swamp, Robert House, and Joseph Culpepper. Witnesses: R. Everhard, C. Gale, E. Moseley, R. Sanderson, T. Pollock, T. Harvey, E. Gale.^[4]
• 7 February 1736 the Bertie County court fined him for selling brandy without a license [Haun, Bertie County Court Minutes, I:199].
• 16 August 1736 Joseph Lane of Edgecombe Precinct to John Bass of Bertie Precinct 20 pounds of current Virginia money for 200 acres more or less on the south side of Fishing Creek joining the creek at the mouth of Beech Swamp which tract was granted to Joseph Lane 14 August 1728 all houses, orchards, gardens, pastures, etc. Wit: John Dawson, William Boddie^[5]
• 13 January 1738 John Bass to George Anderson 10 pounds for 260 acres on NS Maratoke River at Bear Swamp adj. Robert House Part of a patent to John Bass, Junior for 410 acres. Wit: J. Edwards, Thomas Edwards. November Court 1739^[6]
• He was a slave owner by August 1742 when he proved rights on five "whites" and 3 "blacks" in Northampton County [SS 906 by North Carolina Genealogy, 1825].^[7]
• 2 October 1742 Edward Bass of Northampton to John Bass for 48 pounds current money of Virginia 200 acres that plantation whereon I now dwell and the plantation my father John Bass deceased adjoining Richard Washington, Mr. Pollock, and William Brasswell also all my swamp land. Wit: William Boddie, Will Bridgers, James Hutchison. Reg: Northampton County Court November 1742 page 40^[8]
• 30 December 1742 John Bass to William Bass 25 pounds current Virginia money for 200 acres all that plantation of mine whereon I now dwell with all my high land and swamp land given me by the will of my father John Bass decd. joining Uraha Swamp, Thomas Bryant, decd., Edward bass, the land which John Bass bought of his brother Edward and William Cannady. Wit: Samuel Peete, Joseph Richardson, William Boon. Reg: Northampton County, NC Feb. Court, 1742. J. Edwards, C. Ct.^[9]
• 2 February 1744 John Bass of Northampton Co. to James Hutchison 10 pounds Virginia currency for 100 acres more or less on the south side of Auntanky marsh, joining Placet branch and James Barnes. Wit: Henry Towerby, Thomas Smith. Reg: Northampton County 1744^[10]
• 30 December 1745 John Preddick (Reddick) of Perquimmans County to John Bass, Senior (note: now called Senior) of Northampton County 5 pounds current Virginia money for 100 acres more or less, my plantation on the SE side of Antonky marsh joining James Hutchison, William Bridgers, all houses, outhouses, orchards, gardens, etc. being the lower part of the patent. Wit: Jacob Bass, Abraham Bass, John Bass, Jr. (son John now of age). Reg: Northampton County February 1745^[11]
• 6 November 1747 I, John Bass of Northampton County out of filial love which I bear unto my sister Elizabeth, now the wife of Edward Taylor of Northampton County, planter give and grant to John Taylor son of said sister Elizabeth 100 acres more or less on the South side of Hunting Quarter swamp joining a branch and a swamp. Wit: Thomas Flanner, John Sherrard. Reg: Northampton County November 1747^[12]
• 4 March 1748 John Bass and Elizabeth Bass of Northampton County planter to William Winborn of Nansemond County, Virginia planter 60 pounds current Virginia money for 150 acres on the north side of Roanoke river in Uraha woods joining Matthew Thomas, Edward Earp, and a branch part of a patent to Henry Sims for 360 acres granted May 01,1719, all houses, buildings, stables, orchards, pastures, fences, etc. Wit: Thomas Flanner, James Osborne, Jacob Bass. Reg: Northampton County May 1748^[13]
• 20 August 1750 John Bass, Senior of Northampton County to John Bass, Jr. of Edgecombe County, for 40 sterling money of Great Britain 500 acres that plantation of mine between Beech Swamp and Fishing Creek wheron John Bass, Jr. now lives all houses, orchards, gardens, etc., 200 acres as by patent to Joseph Lane 14 August 1728 and the other 300 acres granted to John Bass, Senior, 25 July 1743. Witness: George Stevenson, Thomas Pitman, James Binam. Reg: Edgecombe County Court August 1750^[14]
• 30 February 1754 John Smith of Perquimmans County to John Bass of Northampton County one mulatto Indian slave by the name of Mingo. Reg: Northampton Court February 1754^[15]
• 10 May 1754 Alexander McDaniel to John Bass, Sr. of Northampton 15 pounds lawful money of England for 100 acres more or less on the south side of Fishing Creek, joining the creek part of a grant to Mr. James Castillow for 494 acres 10 April 1730 the sd. land belonging to my brother Archibald and he dying without children, the inheritance became mine. Wit: Henry Thornes and John Bass, Jr., Elizabeth Thorne. Reg: Edgecombe County May 1754^[16]
• 19 February 1755 John Bass. Sr. of Northampton County to Job Bass [son of Isaac Bass] for love and good will he bears his son 100 acres more or less on the south side of Fishing Creek, joining the creek, part of a grant to James Castillan for 494 acres 10 April 1730 and which sd. land John Bass bought of John McDaniel. Wit: Henry Horn, John Bass, John McDaniel. Reg: Edgecombe County February 1755^[17]
• 24 February 1755 John Bass of Northampton County to Jethro Bass of Northampton County for the love and affection I do bear unto my son 200 acres on the north side of Uraha Swamp, joining the Honorable John Dawson, Wolf Pit branch, and John Bryant, it being the tract of land sd. John Bass purchased of William Bass 30 December 1742. Wit: John Duke, David Rice, D---Y Hunter, Reg: Northampton County, February Court 1755^[18]
• He voted for Joseph Sikes in the Northampton County election of 1762 [SS 837 by NCGSJ XII:170].^[19]
• 1 December 1768 John Bass of N/H Co., to his "well esteemed friend", Margaret Murfree, Widow of N/H deed of gift-After sd. Bass' decease, she to receivee negro boy Cesar, negro girl Nan, 1 horse, certain Household Goods, the land I acquired from William Bennett, adj. Norman Knox, John Bass. Wts: John Duke, Sarah X Duke, Esther Hollolwell. Willie Jones, CC^[20]
• 8 September 1772 Margaret Mufree, wid of N/H Co to her friend John Bass, Sr., (to correct error in his deed of gift to her Dec 1, 1768) The land that he purch. from William Bennett. Wts: John Knox, Jos X Lawrence, John Bass, Jr.^[21]

Death & Legacy

The will of John Bass was dated 14 June 1777 and proved in Northampton County Court at the September Court 1777. Exact date of death is unknown.

Abstract of will:^[22]

to my sons Jacob Bass, Issac Bass, Abraham Bass, and my grandsons John Bass son of Issac, and Job Bass, to my grandson Council Bass, son of Jethro Bass, 200 acres more or less whereon I now live, negroes, my still, cap, and worm, etc. grandson Uriah Bass, son of Drury, 100 acres whereon sd. Drury now lives, joining Dickinson and Moses Hall to sd. Uriah also half my land on Uraha swamp, joining Cole Daws, negroes, etc. to my daughter Alse Earp 1 negroes etc. to my daughter Undin Council the use of one negro and her increase during sd. Undin's life and then sd. negro and increase to go to Undin's children, to my grandson Jesse Brittle son of John Brittle land and plantation whereon sd. John Brittle now lives, containing 200 acres and joining my son Jethro and Charles Bryan also 50 acres I purchased of John Kirny to my grandchildren Winnifred Brittle, John Brittle, Margaret Brittle, Drury Brittle, and my daughter Elizabeth Brittle negroes each residue of my estate to be divided amongst my children namely Jacob, John, Abraham, Issac, Jethro, Drury Bass, and Alse Earp, Undin Council and Elizabeth Brittle.

Extrs: John Knox, son John Bass, Richard Veal
Wits: Thomas Knox, William S., Moses hall, John Lawrence

Slaves

Slaves named in John's will dated 14 June 1777 and in deed of gift 1 December 1768:^[23]

• To son Jacob Bass - one negro girl, Beck
• To son Isaac Bass - two negro women, Rose and Moll
• To grandson John Bass- one negro girl, Fanny
• To son Abraham Bass - one negro girl, Phillis
• To grandson Job Bass - one negro girl, Queen
• To grandson Council Bass - negro fellow Sharper and negro boy Scotland
• To grandson Uriah Bass - one negro woman Hannah and negro boy Ben
• To daughter Alice Earp - one negro woman Peg and one negro boy Pompey
• To daughter Euridice Council - one negro woman, Dinah
• To grandson Jesse Bittle - one negro girl, Jane
• To granddaughter Winnifred Bittle- one negro boy, Davy
• to grandson John Bittle - one negro girl, Patt
• To granddaughter Margaret Bittle - one negro girl, Rachel
• To grandson Drury Bittle - one negro boy, Isham
• To daughter Elizabeth Bittle - one negro woman, Judith
• In deed of gift 1 December 1768 to "well-esteemed friend," Margaret Murfree, widow, one negro boy Cesar and a negro girl Nan after his death

John was born in 1715. He passed away in 1777. ^[24]

Sources

1. ↑ Bertie County Deed Book A, p 105
2. ↑ William Bennett Family
3. ↑ Bertie County Deed Book B, p 348
4. ↑ Hoffman, p 220 as cited on Lucas, John
5. ↑ Hofmann, p 14 as cited on Lucas, John
6. ↑ Bell, p 145 as cited on Lucas, John
7. ↑ Bass Family
8. ↑ Hofmann, p 12 as cited on Lucas, John
9. ↑ Hofmann, p 14 as cited on Lucas, John
10. ↑ Hofmann, p 29 as cited on Lucas, John
11. ↑ Hofmann, p 35 as cited on Lucas, John
12. ↑ Hofmann, p 51 as cited on Lucas, John
13. ↑ Hofmann, p 55-56 as cited on Lucas, John
14. ↑ Hofmann, p 119 as cited on Lucas, John
15. ↑ Lucas, John
16. ↑ Lucas, John
17. ↑ Lucas, John
18. ↑ Hofmann, p 107 as cited on Lucas, John
19. ↑ Bass Family
20. ↑ Northampton County Deed Book 4, p 851
21. ↑ Northampton County Deed Book 5, p 1167
22. ↑ Northampton County, North Carolina Wills: Will Book 1, p 292
23. ↑ Roots Revealed
24. ↑ Unsourced family tree handed down to Steve Nesbit.

• Bass Family
• Bell, Mary Best. Colonial Bertie County, North Carolina: Deed Books 1720-1744. 1963.
• Hofmann, Margaret M. 1741-1759 Abstracts of Deeds, Northampton County, North Carolina. Public Registry, Deed Book One and Deed Book Two. Palmer, Massachusetts: Van Volumes, 1983
• John Lucas of Eastern North Carolina Descendants
• Roots Revealed

See also:

• Heinegg, Paul. Free African Americans of Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Maryland and Delaware. Books available to be read online.
• Woodrough, Margot. Whole Cloth: the Floyd Family, London to Cochran in Eight generations. 2006. Includes family lineage for descendants of William Basse (c 1522- ) and Mary Carkin. Also includes some biographical material for the Basse/Bass family, wills, etc.

• Find a Grave, database and images (https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/173336940/john-basse : accessed 02 July 2022), memorial page for John Basse (1704–unknown), Find a Grave Memorial ID 173336940, ; Maintained by Mattie Robinson (contributor 48073876) Burial Details Unknown.