Elizabeth (Symons) Short (abt. 1622 - 1676)

Born about 1622 in England

Wife of William Edward Short — married 1638 in Surry, Virginia

Descendants

Died 1676 at about age 54 in Charles City, Surry, Virginia

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Biography

William and Elizabeth had three children who lived to adulthood. Their two sons, WILLIAM and Thomas Short may not have been of age when their father died, although no record has been found of their guardian. Both William and Thomas were transacting business by 1668, but it is not known how much earlier they had reached their majority. They also had a sister Sarah, who must have married George Middleton. William II left a bequest to his sister Sarah Middleton ,and William and Elizabeth sold land to George Middleton. William died between April 23, 1658 and May 2, 1659, as his wife, Elizabeth identified herself as a widow on that date. (William had been in court himself on the earlier date.) She further stated that she lived in Surry County and later stated that she was living at "Moseley's Choice. ^[1]

As her sons were taking their place in the affairs of the new county, Elizabeth went about her business. She empowered Francis Selo as her attorney to collect her debts and then later, Hezachiah Bridgers, blacksmith to do the same.

In July 1659, Elizabeth Short negotiated with the King of the Wianokes for the sale of a boy of his "nacon named Weetoppin for full term of his life" in exchange for a "younge horse foall aged one yeare" for the King's use. They each signed the agreement with their mark. It was against the law to take Indians into bondage, but many of the settlers did it anyway. This was before the time of the importation of Negro slaves into the colony, and Elizabeth needed someone to work for her. It is likely that Elizabeth felt an indentured servant would be too costly. When her husband had engaged the use of George Potter, he was required to pay Anthony Wyatt £5 sterling or full value in beans or other rendible (sic) commodity. ^[2]

Sources

1. ↑ TIDEWATER VIRGINIA FAMILIES, PG 543
2. ↑ (Charles City County Records, op.cit., p. 77)

• Virginia Colonial Abstracts Vol. III 03 Apr. 1656 Charles City County records, Virginia 212 Abstract: Agreement for William Short to take into his care the boys Symon and Samuel Symonds and older Margaret and younger Elizabeth Symonds