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Bentley Families of Southern Colonial America

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This is a subcategory for the Bentley Name Study. This page's focus is to study Bentley families in Southern Colonial America.

The use of the names William, James, John, Daniel, and Samuel makes placing a record with the correct profile difficult. The following sections will follow the Bentley families as they move from Virginia to North Carolina and then into Georgia.

Contents

Introduction

It was the Study's intention to look at the Bentley families in each state separately. However, there appears to be at least two different Bentley families living in early Virginia and North Carolina. Studying them together will provide better opportunities to prevent conflation of profiles with similar names.

The goal of most one name studies is to ["locate all instances of that name wherever it is found". In furthering this goal, the Study will utilize traditional "data sets," the Bentley profiles here on WikiTree (3,065 profiles as of February 1, 2018) as well as the profiles identified by Allen Bentley. He has a Family Search Bentley Genealogy with over 30,064 Bentley names, many of his profiles have lots of records or sources. These profiles can be found both on Rootsweb and on Family Search

In some cases, its not clear why the record is with the particular name, so the Study will exercise independent judgement about placing those records here on WikiTree. However, his database will be one measure of how close the Study is to collecting every instance of the Bentley name.

In the following sections, the first Bentley family or families to live in each state will be discussed. The goal is to eventually present an accurate picture of how the Bentley name (one the first names recorded in America) spread from colonial Virginia to the other colonies and into the southern United States.

The use of the same "given" name by repeated generations can lead to confusion. So as a secondary goal, each state section will attempt to untangle (if necessary) or explain family lines that might be confusing.

If you run across a confusing line of the Bentley Family not yet covered, please let the Study manager know. The Study will attempt to create sections that will focus on your concern (or work with you to help untangle it). The current plan is for the Study to begin with states who began as colonies. However, that focus will change based on requests/interest by other WikiTreers. Therefore, the state sections may at times read more like unorganized "research notes" than a coherent study of each state.

Immigrants to Virginia

According to the [Pilgrim Passenger Names Early 1600's website] four Bentleys are listed in the muster lists of ships coming to America from 1608 and 1671.

Bentley, William age 20 1608 on ship [[[:Category:John_and_Francis%2C_sailed_Oct_18%2C_1607|John and Francis]]] (First Supply) from London to Virginia
Bentlie, William age 36 1624 on ship [Jacob] from London to Virginia
Bentley, Abram age 20 1635 on ship [Globe] from London to Virginia
Bently, Jo. age 21 1635 on ship [Alice] from London to Virginia
It is believed that the William Bentley and Bentlie listed above are the same person. William is discussed more below. Abram and Jo. do not have profiles on wikitree and no further information is known about them at this time.

Cavaliers and Pioneers

The book Cavaliers and Pioneers [1] provides a more comprehensive list of Bentleys who settled in Virginia in the 1600 and 1700s. Anyone interested in this topic should also refer to Allen Price's website, Complete Listing of Early Virginia Immigrants, 1623-1666 (from book published 1912 by George Cabell Greer, now copyright-free) [available here] which includes a link to a spreadsheet for sorting all significant data contained in Cavaliers and Pioneers [in spreadsheet format][2]

According to Price, Cavaliers and Pioneers documents over 17,000 names of immigrants, over 25,000, if one includes the sponsors of the immigrants. It appears the Bentley name (or variations) is mentioned 13 times, with six listings involving Williams.

Bentley's Living in Early Virginia and North Carolina (1608-1699)

To do in this section: figure out if should make profiles for unconnected people

Based on the profiles here on WikiTree (and those identified on Family Search) there were 17 Bentley individuals alive in Virginia and North Carolina in the sixteen hundreds.

The vast majority of these Bentley profiles can be traced to the

Family of William Bentley (Virginia and NC)

Family of Daniel Bentley (Virginia)

  • Daniel Bentley 1660 - 1721
  • Daniel Jr who was born in Virginia in 1690. Daniel had 5 children born in Virginia between 1707-1719, including

Not in either family

Additional records have been found for individuals alive and living in Virginia during this time, but those people either do not have a profile or its not clear which profile the record should go with. Those records or people will be discussed in a section after after examination of the two primary Bentley families of seventeenth century Virginia.

The first Bentley known to be in Virginia was William Bentley (in Virginia 1624 to 1660's). The land he owned in 1624, in the incorporation of Elizabeth City (was considered in Warwick Co. this land was abandoned by William prior to 1645. It is not clear what happened to William after 1645. His children moved to North Carolina around 1660s. He was believed married to Elizabeth Unknown, marriage date unknown. His son's ages are estimated ~1635-40 by the ages of Richard's children.

Boddie states William Bentley who came to Jamestown in 1624 on the Jacob was the probable father of Richard and William who moved to Alermarle CO, NC in the 1660s.

There were other Bentley names in Virginia not yet linked to William and Elizabeth. Its not clear why Boddie place Richard and William as the sons of William. They would have been born in 1636 and 1640.

The family of William Bentley moved into North Carolina in the 1660's. William's son Richard had sons named Richard, William and John with his first wife, he also had second John with his second wife Lydia. His son then had sons use used the names William, James and John. It appears some children of this line have possibly been conflated with children of a William belonging to Daniel Bentley line. There also was a Thomas who is not believed related to William's family who had a son Thomas who lived in North Carolina.

  1. William Bentley married Elizabeth Bentley and are known to have had the following children:
  2. William (brother of Richard) (1640s-1693 Albemarle Co)
  3. Richard believed to have moved to North Carolina sometime prior to 1664. Richard's children were born in North Carolina:
    1. Mary was born on 29 Aug 1662 in Perquimans, North Carolina.
    2. Sarah born about 1663
    3. John Bentley (son of Richard and Jane) Born 22 Dec 1665 in , North Carolina before Oct 1695 in , North Carolina. Married to ANN BARROW on 6 Nov 1694.(45) Widowed about a year after her marriage. Probably died before 1718 as she was not listed in her father's will. No known children
      1. William W. (son of John, the son of Richard)(1702-1779 Bertie)
        1. William II (1729 - abt. 1802) (Bertie)
          1. William III (1749 - aft. 1774) (Onslow Co)
    4. Richard Bentley (son of Richard and Jane) Born 2 Feb 1668 in Perquimans, died 1697. No children
    5. William (son of Richard) born 5 Aug 1671 in Perquimans died after 1694. No known children.
    6. John born about 1679

The family of Daniel Bentley begins to appear in Virginia in 1660.

  1. Unknown Parents
    1. Daniel Bentley (estimated born in 1660, place unknown died ____
      1. Daniel Jr who was born in Virginia in 1690. Daniel had 5 children born in Virginia between 1707-1719, including
        1. Sarah
        2. John Bentley in Virginia 1707-1795
        3. Ann Bentley November 2, 1717 in North Farnham Parish, Richmond, Virginia
        4. William (in Virginia 1719 - 1799), had a son
        5. Samuel Bentley 30 Dec 1719 in Farnham, Richmond, Virginia, had 9 children born in Virginia from 1736-1760

Daniel's family will be discussed more in the next section. Daniel's family along with another Daniel Bentley family and multiple Samuels, has led to some genealogical confusion over the Bentley families living in eighteenth century Virginia.

What happened to William and John of Surry Co? Records in NC seem to suggest this wasn't the only other know John of this era.

There are records for Thomas, William and John in Surry Co. that don't seem to be placed with any profiles. The only John Bentley known to be alive was born in North Carolina. "John Bently (son of Richard) and Ann Barrow daughter of (John and wife Sarah) were married Nov. 6, 1694 by Thomas Harvie." in North Carolina.

The listing for Surry Co. Tithables in 1698 lists

  • John Bentley, Thomas Bentley, Thomas Jr. It also has an entry for Edward Barrow and Thomas Barrow. Could the John Bentley in NC who married Ann Barrow be related to these Bentley and Barrows?
  1. William Bentley not sure of generation for John and William yet. Surry Co. in 1688 (page 194)
  2. John Bentley--in 1698 Surry (page 202) and need to check 1694 in 1704 a no first name Bentley in 1704 in Surry County[3] there is also a listing for
  3. Jno. Bentley in 1704 Rent Rolls for land in James City Co.[4] this Jno and John above could be same ??

Thomas, Thomas Jr and William, John In the late 1680-90s the names Thomas, Thomas Jr, William and John's appear, then end, around the same time record's for Daniel's family begin to show up. Further research/analysis of these names in relation to the families of William and Daniel

  1. Thomas importee to Surry Co. March 11, 1652 to JOHN BLACKBOURNE
    1. Thomas Jr. (Likely his son) listed with Thom Sr 1688 (p194) and 1698 (page 202)

It is possible that the Tho. Benleye who came to the Surrey area prior to 1652 is the father of the Thomas Bentley Jr who was grantee of land on October 20, 1688. Either could be the same Tho Bentley mentioned in a deposition on July 4, 1677. Since this Thomas was involved in Bacon's Rebellion, it is possible he is related to the Matthew Bentley who was also involved in the same rebellion.

Its important to keep in mind that the various unconnected people might be related to families of the families of William and Daniel or might represent other Bentley families present in Virginia and or North Carolina during the 1600s. The discussion of William's and Daniel's families will continue after the following section, which will discuss records and profiles not yet tied to one of the two primary Bentley families.

The Unconnected section seems to distract, might be helpful to skip this section and begin again with the section Two Daniels, Confusion over Samuel and Conflation of William, John and James

Unconnected Bentley records or people in 1600 VA and NC

William and Elizabeth
Do the following records all belong to William Bentley who Boddie tells us married Elizabeth Bentley maybe around 1640. Or was there another William and/or Elizabeth in Virginia between 1624-1651

  • On June 20, 1639 records show William Bentleg was imported into Henrico Co along with an Elizabeth Boreman. (Could this be when William abandoned his land? He was married to an Elizabeth (no date for marriage). Richard, their first son is believed to have been born 1635-1640 based on age of his kids (Mary), his first child was "borne the 29th of Agust 1662." So William and Elizabeth might have gotten married as late as 1640s. Could Elizabeth Boreman be the same Elizabeth he married? If it is, then need to explain who Eliz Bently of 1635 was connected to.
  • 1645 William's land from 1624 is mentioned in grant (Boddie say William was still living?) as abandoned prior to September 24, 1645 when that land was granted to Mr. Edward Major. The land granted to Major is described as land in Warwick Co formerly granted to Severall pers: Pharoah Flinton, 150 acs., Giles Allington, 100 acs., & William Bentley, 50 acs. (individually) & by them deserted. [5]
  • On January 9, 1651 William Benley is listed on a land grant as one of 20 people imported by Humphrey Tabb for land in Northumberland Co. If this was the same William, it would seem his sons and wife would be with him?
  • 1655 (no date given) Elizabeth Bentley (possibly Elizabeth Bentley) is listed as one of six immigrants imported by Martin Hamond for land in James River S. The other immigrants include: Elizabeth Johnson, Robert Mason, Kath. Mutton, Mary Langingham, John Glover. Note: the 1655 date matches the dates around the other grants recorded in original patent book near the Elizabeth's entry.

No further records have been found for William or Elizabeth after 1655.

  • Connection to Flinton family in 1624. WikiTree currently has an interesting additional connection between the Bentley and Flinton families. In approximately 1760, 136 years later, Farrar Pharaoh Flinton's great great great grandson Capt. Edward Booker IV married Mary Bentley. Mary is believed to be the daughter of Samuel Bentley who is not currently believed to be related to William Bentley. See section below entitled The Three Bentley Families, with a Samuel.
  • April 04, 1635 Eliza. Bently (Elizabeth Bentley possibly??)is listed in a grant Thomas Normanton (Elizabeth City Co.) as one of six people (Andrew Peterson, Jos. Browne, Eliz. Blackly, Ann Ward) transported by John Ward for which he was given a land grant on April 04, 1635. [6]

Records for Bentley names not tied to any profile

  1. 1635 John Bently (born ~ 1614, arrived on ship Alice), AND Abram. Bentley (born~1615 on shipe Globe)
  2. July 25, 1638 and September 14, 1650 Hen. Bently/Henry Bentley importee
  3. Unknown Parents
    1. Nathaniel Bentley Born about 1645 [location unknown]
      1. Patience Bentley Born 11 Oct 1671 in Rappahannock, Essex, Virginia (Wife of Thomas Bartlett — married [date unknown] [location unknown] Died 25 Mar 1713 in Essex County, Virginia. Mother of
        1. William Bartlett
  4. Unknown Parents
    1. July 15, 1657. Jane Bently is listed as one of 10 immigrants land in Doegs Island.
  5. Unknown Parents
    1. Matthew Bentley 1650 to 1684 (involved in Bacon's rebellion)
      1. married married in Middlesex (formerly a part of Lancaster) on February 6, 1670
      2. was probably born around 1645-1650-not sure where
  6. Unknown Parents
    1. Thomas records from 1652-1704 (involved in Bacon's rebellion)
      1. Thomas Jr
      2. Its not yet know if they are related but Various Tithables between 1678 and 1704 mention a Tho, William and John Bentley[7]

In 1635 two more Bentleys arrive in Virginia John Bently (born ~ 1614, arrived on ship Alice), AND Abram. Bentley (born ~1615 (shipe Globe) both arrived in Virginia. No other records seem to exist for John and Abram in Virginia around 1635. (There is a record for a Jno Bentley in the Rent Roll for Jame City Co. in 1704.)[8]

A Henry Bentley also shows up in Virginia in 1638 and July 25, 1638 Hen. Bently is listed on a land grant as one of the 15 people transported for land due to Elizabeth Grayne (Widow) for land in (Chas City Co.) (also listed Rowland Grayne, James Grayne, Nich. Cliffe, William Rowly, Robert Holman, Martha Fludd, Jon. Parker, Robt. Fute, Fr. Downes, Daniell Arrye, Jon. Doobees, Sarah Keelin, Jon. Dale, Richard Falconer)[9]

September 14, 1650 Henry Bentley is listed on a land grant as one 9 people imported by Capt. Ischiel Linch for land in Rappahannock River. (other importees: Blanch Grigg, Jane Garrett, John Roberts, Thomas Westwood, John Coope, George Peirce, William Bira, John Gurnett (or Garnett)). [10] Is this the same Henry from 1638 or a new one?

July 15, 1657. Jane Bently is listed as one of 10 immigrants imported by Francis Roberts for land in Doegs Island. The other immigrants include: James Mac Donnell, Hugh Carty, Tho. Holder, Ro. Barnes, Rob. Huett, Edmond Taylor, Richd. Johnson, Peeter Edwards, Rob. Jones. Renewed 11 Mar. 1663 in name of Joseph Feilding & Jno. Gardner, to whom it was assigned by sd. Roberts

Nathan Bentley is listed in land grants on September 24, 1668 Nathl. Bently was the grantee of land [land grant available here] AND [land grant available here] He is listed as the father of

On November 20, 1679, Martin Bentley was granted a ticket to come to the "Providence" aboard the Mary and Sarah from Barbados.[11] (see for more info about a Marin Bentley in Barbados. Nothing further is currently know about him or any family he might have had.

Thomas and Matthew, "the Baconians"
Thomas and Matthew were both mentioned in relation to Bacon's Rebellion, it not know if they were related or not. However, a cautionary note, "Two Baconians, Matthew Bentley and Robert Boodle . . . two native Middlesex sons had been cut from their family inheritances by circumstances out of their control" If this is true, it would mean that Matthew might not be mentioned in his father's will or other records.

  • March 11, 1652 in land grant to JOHN BLACKBOURNE for 151 arcs. in Surry Co., (cited p. 248). Near Col. Flood's land, bet. Mr. Foards & the Sunken Marsh, etc., S. to the barren Neck Swamp, etc. Incomplete. Mentions John Flood & Richard Baven. Trans, of 3 pers: Tho. Ackerman, Tho. Benleye.[12]
  • February 6, 1670 Mathew Bentley married Mary Wilde in Middlesex (formerly a part of Lancaster).
  • Matthew was involved in Bacon's Rebellion in 1676. What is known about him comes from records related to Matthew's trial for his involvement in the rebellion. His profile notes that he was disinherited by his family for his involvement in rebellion. If this is true, then records of Matthew's father may be difficult to find.
  • July 4, 1677 Tho Bentley is mentioned in a deposition of Jeremiah Ellis concerning his involvement in Bacon's Rebellion.[13]
  • January 8, 1685 Mathew Bentley died


Bentley's Living in Virginia (1700-1799)

To do:

  1. Daniel section-Figure out who children of Daniel are, Allan has Daniel as father of one of the William currently link to the NC family
  2. Samuel-figure out if merges are needed
  3. William section-make sure all the records are with the correct William
  4. James and John, fit with correct parents after fixing Williams

In this section I will lay out three problems that makes conflating the profiles from the family of William who moved to North Carolina with the family of Daniel from Virginia. It appears members of both families end up in Georgia (get date 1780s?-1810)

  1. There were two Daniel Bentley living in Virginia around the same time.
  2. There maybe two sets of profiles for the family of Samuel but this line also involves a Sarah passing on the Bentley name to children.
  3. There are many Williams born around the same time (1720s-17??). Including Williams in both of the two different Bentley families. It is these Williams or there children who end up in Georgia. The family of William in NC (as the profiles stand now) named children William, James and John in three 3 consecutive generations.

Each problem will be addressed in a section that will also attempt to locate all the Bentley's with the same name (Daniel), then (Samuel and Sarah), then Williams (James and John also need to be addressed).

Daniels in Virginia

Three Daniel Bentleys were in [Richmond Co] Virginia around the same time which has caused some confusion over who is related to who. The first [Bentley-766|Daniel]] was married to Annie, they had five children including a Daniel Jr [Incorrect: They have only 4 proved - No Daniel. GFB].. The second Daniel [This is apparently Daniel Jr. [This is Bentley-766] mentioned in his father's 1721 will B/o James and proved married to another Elizabeth].(currently has no profile) he was married to Elizabeth and they had two children including another Daniel Jr. Rootsweb profiles have different children than do the profiles here at WikiTree. Its not clear how many Daniel profiles there should be. Below is outlined the WikiTree Daniles then the Rootsweb Daniels

  1. Daniel Bentley (Daniel 1) (born in 1660no source, place unknown, will Aug 1721 in Farnham, Richmond, Virginia) married to Elizabeth (Rootsweb Profile)
    1. Daniel Jr (Daniel 2) (born in Virginia in 1690no source) [REMOVE this line. Place below at "Daniel 3."GFB]
      1. ][###[[Bentley-5049 bc1785 died prior to July 3, 1723 when proved wife Anne BENTLEY cited as widow on Nash land.

(died before 12 Sep 1731 [then too] in Farnham, Richmond, Virginia). Daniel was married to Anne and they had 5 [NO: CORRECT is 4 - NO Daniel] children born in Virginia between 1717-1719, [CORRECT is: Anne'17, Samuel 19, William '22 and apparent older brother John bc1715 PROVED by mother in court 12 Sep 1731 GFB] Died will [NO WILL] Presented at court July 3, 1723. Richmond County Deeds 1720-1733, page s 199-200 (Sparacio) "Anne BENTLEY, Widow (from rootsweb)(Daniel's profile on Rootsweb)

    1. [##Daniel Jr (Daniel 2) (born in Virginia in 1690no source) [REMOVE this line. Place below at "Daniel 3."GFB] [HERE!!!] #Daniel Bentley (Daniel 3) Rootsweb profile)who was married to Elizabeth and had the following children:
    2. Alice Bentley born April 13, 1724 (have records but no profile, mother Elizabeth)[14]
    3. Daniel [#### 3rd, - S/o ## / Jr.] Bentley born February 28, 1726 (have records but no profile, mother Elizabeth)[15]

Compare to Rootsweb profiles for Daniels.

  • Daniel 1 will of in 1721 names Eliz wife (sons young James and Daniel)
  • Daniel 2 ["3" - NOT a 2nd nor a JR.] and Anna had kids between 1717-20 [c1715-1722] (died by 1723, Anna Widow of Daniel cited in July 3, 1723)
  • Daniel 3 ["2", - 2nd, - Jr.] and Eliz had kids in 1724-1726 [ S/o Dan will 1721]

Would suggest there are three separate Daniels [This is correct]

  • Janet Hunter shared many records regarding the family of Daniel Bentley on a Genealogy.com board available here.

Earliest records Hunter found for Daniel:

  1. 1704 Daniel (Richmond Co. July and Aug, December)
  2. 1712-1720 lots of records Daniel of Richmond
  3. 1717 Daniel and ANN parents of Ann
  4. 1719 Samuel son of Daniel and Ann
  5. 1720 Will is written
  6. 1721 wife Elizabeth present will
  7. 1723 "widow" Anne
  8. 1724 Alice daughter of Dan and Elizabeth
  9. 1726 Daniel Son of Daniel and Elizabeth
  10. 1730 John d/o John and Mary [??? Daniel??? clarification needed - possible 4th]
  11. 1731 Daniel Court case [Probably Dan Jr.]
  12. 1731 Deed of Gift-Ann Bentley gives sons property when they become 21. Sons: John, Samel, William

Three Daniels again? 1. Dan and Ann 2. Dan and Eliz 3. Dan son of Dan and Eliz

What happened to these guys 1704 Richard Bentley: Phillips receives land for importation of him (Richmond Co.) AND 1706 Thomas Bentley (Surry Co.) (see above ???)


Johns in early VA [Richmond Co / Amelia Co: 1) John bc1710 Father UNK m Mary Ellis 1727 moves to Amelia Co c1736. 2) John bc1715 S/o Daniel and Anne Onslow c1756 - Wilkes Co GA c1770 and 3) John bc1740 dc1780 (Amelia Co will) - B/o Efford b1760 - S/o Samuel bc1710 will of 1784. GFB]

  1. Son of Unknown)roots web profile of Unknown)
    1. John born 1707 profile on Rootsweb (Birth: Abt 1707 in Virginia Death: 3 Apr 1750 in Amelia County, Virginia
  2. Son of Daniel BENTLEY and Anne (Rootsweb for Danie)l b: Abt 1690 [APPARENTLY NO SUCH PERSON] in Raliegh Parish, Amelia County, Virginia
    1. John born in 1711 profile on Rootsweb (moved to Oslow Co, NC died after 1771)


Overall WikiTree currently lists 14 Daniel Bentley profiles born between 1660-1789. Allan lists 12 Daniel profiles on rootsweb and 13 on Family Tree (1600-1799)

The vast majority of the WikiTree profiles list Virginia as a birth place. The only Daniels not born in Virginia are the three Daniel's from the New England Bentley families

  1. Daniel Webster(b. 1762 in Salmon River, Colchester, Canada)
    1. Bentley-863|Daniel Webster Jr.]](b. 6 Sep 1787 in Salmon River, Colchester, Canada)
  2. Daniel Bentley (15 Oct 1782 Tyringham,,Massachusetts

There was one Daniel born in Maryland and moved to North Carolina. His family has been confused with the family of William Bentley in NC, but is not believed related.

  1. Daniel (abt 1752 Maryland and died 15 Jul 1839 in Whitaker, Kentucky). He is related to the Thomas Bentley family who moved from Maryland to Rowan, NC.

Two of the remaining ten Daniel Bentley profiles were born in Virginia but don't list parents.

  1. Daniel no parents abt 1750 Richmond Co.,VA - 02 Jul 1832
  2. Daniel Elizabeth as mother Born 1752 in Richmond, Virginia
    1. Daniel born 1778 in Richard, Virginia

Leaving seven Daniel profiles associate with the Daniel from Virginia family.

Confusion over Samuel and Sarah

On WikiTree there are currently 6 Samuel in VA and NC. On Family Search there are 9 Samuels living in Virginia and none in NC between 1700-1799.

11 on WikiTree overall,Family Search lists 21 Samuel Bentley between 1700-1799

The six Samuel profiles on Wiki Tree are as follow. To keep the outline shorter children not named Samuel or Sarah are not included below.

  1. Daniel Bentley (Born abt 1690 in Raleigh, Amelia, Virginia)(died before 12 Sep 1731 in Farnham, Richmond, Virginia)
    1. Sarah mentioned in brothers will of 1795 (Allan does not list her)
    2. Samuel ( before 30 Dec 1719 in Farnham, Richmond, Virginia)(Apr 1795 in Nottoway, Virginia)
      1. Samuel Bentley Jr. born in 1740, married in 1757 had 9 children like his father, same with names that make his father's siblings. Since he died in Georgia, its not clear where all his children where born.
        1. Samuel 3rd born 1772 in Virginia
      2. Sarah Sally Bentley (b. 1760 in Amelia, Virginia)(Died 1810 in Browns Creek, Union, South Carolina)
  2. Unknown Parents (seems likely most of these profiles are the same family from Daniel above but NOT ready to merge until sources more closely checked)
    1. Samuel Bentley was born 1700-1720 in Virginia. died before 1799.
      1. Samuel Jr. (born 1739 [location unknown])(Died 1795 [location unknown])
      2. Sarah Bentley. (born 1760 in Amelia County, Virginia)(before 1850 unknown where.
        1. Joel Bentley born 1780 in Virginia. He had five children all listed as being born in South Carolina.
          1. Samuel (born about 4 Aug 1804)(died about 1860)
        2. Freeman Bentley born in 1791 in Virginia, father of five children.

It seems some of the Samuel profiles are intended for the same people. Clearer sources and further research is needed.

Need to also figure out when Samuel was born. If right after 1700, he would be in Daniel Jr. generation and probably too old to be Sarah's dad. The documents in profile are for late 1780s. So its likely Samuel was born closer too 1720 (in the above outline, he's placed with the generation of those born in 1720)

Both Sarah's are listed as being born in 1760. Both fathers born 40 years before. Support for them being needing to be merged.

The second Sarah is listed as having three children named Bentley. So her birth name and her children's names are the same. Need to review notes in these profiles. The document in Sam's profile, "twenty sixth day of March 1785, the within indenture between SAMUEL BENTLY and SARAH BENTLY" may explain the her and her children having same name.

She is listed as having 3 sons, with an unknown Bentley father born between 1780-1790. They each had five children.

Seems possible these need to be merged, but need more sources??


Conflation of William Bentley from two families

During the seventeen hundreds the family of Daniel in Virginia and the family of William in NC repeatedly used the names William, John and James. Since members of both of these families end up in Georgia, both families will be analysed together. Again only certain children will be included in the outline to keep the outline short enough to study on these names.

  1. Daniel Bentley (born in 1660, place unknown, and had a son. He died in 1721 in Farnham, Richmond, Virginia
    1. Daniel Bentley (Born abt 1690 in Raleigh, Amelia, Virginia)(died before 12 Sep 1731 in Farnham, Richmond, Virginia)
      1. William Bentley (B. before 13 Mar 1720 in Richmond, Wise, Virginia)( 1799 in Gloucester, Gloucester, Virginia)
      2. Samuel Bentley 30 Dec 1719 in Farnham, Richmond, Virginia, had 9 children born in Virginia from 1736-1760
        1. Captain William Weldon Bentley(1754 in Amelia, Virginia)(Nov 1823 in Powhatan, Powhatan, Virginia)
        2. Samuel Bentley Jr. born in 1740, married in 1757 had 9 children like his father, same with names that make his father's siblings. Since he died in Georgia, its not clear where all his children where born.
          1. William Weldon Bentley born 1776 Virginia
          2. James Bentley born 1776 in Virgina
  2. Unknown Grandparent
    1. Unknown Parents of Daniel
      1. Samuel Bentley was born 1700-1720 in Virginia. died before 1799.
        1. Samuel Jr. (born 1739 [location unknown])(Died 1795 [location unknown])
        2. Sarah Bentley. (born 1760 in Amelia County, Virginia)(before 1850 unknown where.
          1. William Bentley born in 1781 in Virginia, father of five children.
  1. John Bentley (son of Richard and Jane) Born 22 Dec 1665 in , North Carolina before Oct 1695 in , North Carolina. Married to ANN BARROW on 6 Nov 1694.(45) Widowed about a year after her marriage. Probably died before 1718 as she was not listed in her father's will. No known children
  2. John Bentley (son of Richard and Lydia) was born about 1679 in Chowan Count,. died/will probated July 15, 1741 in Moratock River, Bertie Co. John had seven children. The following names are ones that show up repeatedly again in other generations.
    1. John Jr.(born about 1703)(Bertie)(died 1754 in Bertie Co), no children listed on his profile.
      1. JOHN BENTLEY, b. Abt. 1730, Bertie, North Carolina; d. Abt. 1802, Bertie County, North Carolina. (no profile located on Wiki so far)
      2. WILLIAM BENTLEY, b. Abt. 1728; d. Abt. 1804, Bertie County, North Carolina. (no know children)
      3. JESSE BENTLEY (not sure of birth or death date, See John's profile for more)(no known children)
      4. Hannah (not many clear sources for her).
    2. James (born about 1717 in Bertie)(died before 1 Mar 1787), no children listed on his profile. Allan lists the following children (see James profile for most updated info on kids, will update here when profiles are identified or created.
      1. WILLIAM BENTLEY, Born unsure d. 1800, Sumner County, Tennessee.
      2. JOHN BENTLEY, b. Abt. 1766; d. Abt. 1800, Sumner County, Tennessee.
      3. JAMES5 BENTLEY, JR., b. Abt. 1775 NC; d. Abt. 1829, Sumner County, Tennessee.
      4. 3 more children including: MARTHA BENTLEY. (Notes for MARTHA BENTLEY: on Allan's profile), ELIZABETH BENTLEY and JEREMIAH BENTLEY, b. Abt. 1785, Edgecombe County, North Carolina.
    3. William W.(1702-1779 in Bertie)
      1. John (about 1724, not sure where)(1754 Tyrrell Co) no children currently listed.(Allan lists Issac and Sarah)
      2. James (about 1725 [uncertain] in NC) no children listed currently on profile, Allan lists JAMES BENTLEY and SUSANNAH is:
        1. JOHN6 BENTLEY, b. Abt. 1745. Notes for JOHN BENTLEY in profile
      3. William II (born 1729 in NC - (moved to GA in 1773) died about 1792 in Wilkes CO.)
        1. John (about 1759 in NC)( about 1809 in Lincoln Co., Ga) no children listed on profile yet
        2. James ( about 1755 in NC )(about 1798 in Oglethorpe Co)
          1. Isaac Bentley (1775 in GA)(after 1850 in AL) he had 12 children.
        3. William III (1749 - aft. 1774 in Onslow Co)
          1. James (1778 in Wilkes County)James is not currently linked to William as father/son but is believe to be his son

The name William Bentley appears in numerous records in Virginia, North Carolina and Georgia in the 1700's (not to mention in numerous northern colonial records). Here on WikiTree there are currently 8 William Bentleys born 1700-1799 in VA, NC, GA. Other sites put that number higher

Searching the Genealogy done by Allan (2:2:2:MMD8-55T) on Family Search there 70 William Bentley born 1700-1799. In the southern colonies there were 22 Williams (14 in VA, 3 in NC, 4 in GA, 1 in PA who died in WV).

When looking at various records related to the different William Bentley's serving in the Revolution, it appears there is a real risk of mixing and matches records.

Allan Bentley (who lists many sources on his profiles on other sites) seems to have changed his mind over the years about which William belongs to which parent. Its not clear what made him change his mind. But this points to the likelihood others will be confused by these Williams. The profiles managed by Allan Bentley on different sites have a number of sources but its not clear the sources are always with the right William. The confusion seems to be about which Williams was in Virginia, North Carolina and Georgia and when. Additionally, various sources provide information about the Williams serving in the Revolutionary War.

DAR and other Records from Revolutionary War

Many William Bentley's service in the Revolutionary War are often confused with Captain William Weldon Bentley.

DAR records show eight William Bentleys serving in the Revolution [search here]

It appears three different Williams were born around 1728/9 (one unknown POB, and two in VA). Two of these Williams died in Wilkes Co GA, one in 1792 and one in 1802. The third died in VA.

William Bentley II
In DAR records William is listed as being born circa 1729 and died in Wilkes Co, Georgia after 1792. His wife's name was Jane and two children are listed as Balaam (married to Nancy) and Lewis (wife Elizabeth Gartrell) according to DAR records Daughters of the American Revolution, DAR Genealogical Research Databases, database online, (http://www.dar.org/ : accessed January 26, 2016), "Record of William Bentley", Ancestor # A205214.
William Bentley (Esn)
also born around 1729 (in Virginia) and also died in Wilkes Co, Georgia but in 1802. Their records indicate his wife's name was Mary Elliot. Children Chloe (married to John Holmes) and George (married to Jane Carson) Daughters of the American Revolution, DAR Genealogical Research Databases, database online, (http://www.dar.org/ : accessed November 27, 2016), "Record of William Bentley", Ancestor # A009460.
William Bentley776
DAR records have another William (Sgt) who was born in VA in 1728 but died in Jefferson CO, VA in 1803. Their records indicate his wife was Margaret and a daughter Prudence (married THOMAS THORNBOROUGH) and Solomon (wife REBECCA WOOD). Daughters of the American Revolution, DAR Genealogical Research Databases, database online, (http://www.dar.org/ : accessed November 27, 2016), "Record of William Bentley", Ancestor # A009461.

William II wife is listed here on Wiki as Mary Jane Elliot. DAR believes there were 3 separate William Bentleys who were born in 1728/9, two of which are believed to have died in Wilkes Co, Georgia.

The two records when combined seem to match the one profile here: Jane (wife of the first William) and Mary Elliot (wife of the second William), seems to match the Mary Jane Elliot listed on this profile.

The children listed in the first William's DAR record, Balaam (married to Nancy) and Lewis (wife Elizabeth Gartrell), match the children on this profile. However, Chloe (married to John Holmes) is in the DAR records for the second William but Chloe listed as a child for this profile.

The names of all three of children listed in the two DAR records appear in William's will

George listed on second Williams records (married to Jane Carson) who is not listed on here, nor in the will of William.

Which raises the question of if facts from one William's life has been mixed with facts from other Williams? Are DAR records reliable enough to ensure there where there separate Williams or is the DAR confusing at least two Williams with one?

further research, sources and documentation is needed.

John and James

should all James and Johns be added to Williams above

Might add to section above or do a separate section here for James and John after figuring out the above sections

Unknown Parents

    1. James F. Bentley born in Virginia in 1765, died in KY in1831). More sources are needed to ensure he is not related to this Samuel. He had a son
      1. William Bentley who is listed as being born in New York in 1795, married in Ohio in 1821 and died in Indiana in 1853. William is listed as the father of 12 children all born in Ohio between 1822-1844.

One source has John Bentley was born in Virginia in 1773, as a grandchild of the Daniel Bentley family above. More sources needed. On the profile here he has no known parents or children.

There are other profile with these names on WikiTree, its not clear yet if those profile belong to the family of William or if they belong to a different family. Those profiles are:

  • James born 1789 in Iradell County
  • James born about 1796, married 1805 in Wilkes Co. Georgia
  • James born in 1826 in North Carolina (no known parents)

Some of the members of this line, moved to Georgia. There are numerous records in Georgia where these same names are repeated again. It might be helpful to see the records found in Georgia, but have not yet been tied to a specific person. see Georgia section for those records

Thomas, Thomas Jr.

Figuring out if various Thomas profiles are related moving to 1700s

  1. Unknown Parents
    1. Thomas Bentley(b. 1690need source in Rowan, North Carolina) (died 1791 in Lincoln, North Carolina, USA) is possible the father of
      1. Thomas Bentley (born 1729) who married Hannah Beasley
    2. Could this Thomas be related to the one in Virginia??
      1. Children unidentified/unknown
  1. Unknown Grand Parents, most likely in Maryland or England
    1. Unknown Parents Maryland or England
      1. Thomas Bentley (born about 1716) from Maryland then Rowan Co. NC who married Hannah Unknown Bentley they had seven children, including
        1. Margaret (Bentley) Yonts (abt. 1776 - abt. 1825)

Note:Thomas Bentley (from RI) Born 11 Jul 1717 is sometimes confused with these Thomas profiles. This Thomas lived only in Rhode Island. He is believed to have married Elizabeth Bergen and they had 10 children together. The

Thomas Bentley profiles recently under went some changes. To see the justification for these changes please see Three Similar Thomas Profiles in NC.

Bentley Families in Early North Carolina

For more information about colonial Carolina, please see the British Carolina Colony Project page. The following pages on the three Original Counties in Carolina provide much history on North Carolina:


The Records of William Bentley in North Carolina

The records below are related to William Bentley alive in NC around this time and need to be added to the appropriate profile(s) here on WikiTree.

Bertie

(The county was formed as Bertie Precinct in 1722 from the part of Chowan Precinct of Albemarle County lying west of the Chowan River. In 1729 parts of Bertie Precinct, Chowan Precinct, Currituck Precinct, and Pasquotank Precinct of Albemarle County were combined to form Tyrrell Precinct.)

  • William W. was already a juryman in Bertie County in 1723, (based upon land grants with Polluck family) it appears that William Bentley moved to Tyrell Co., N.C. about 1733/4. and probably the father of the grandson John BENTLEY to whom John BENTLEY Sr. left a bequest in his will dated 1728 [16]
  • On Sept. 5, 1733 Cullen POLLUCK deeded to William W. land from his brother, Thomas POLLUCK, and 50 acres additional (Bertie Co. D.B.k."D",p.129), and on
  • 4 May 1759, Bertie Precinct, North Carolina. --Inquest held at the plantation of James LEGETT in Bertie Co about an Accidentally Drowned in Roanoake River, William Wellings- 1759, Coroner- Joseph Hardy, Jury: William Bentley (North Carolina State Archives)[17]
Chowan/Gates

(From 1684–1722 Gates County was a part of the Chowan precinct) (Chowan was formed in 1670 as a precinct, originally called Shaftesbury, in Albemarle County. By 1685 it had been renamed for the Chowan Indian tribe)

  • William W. is believed to have owned land in Gates Co, NC as early as 1719. His names is mentioned as the original landowner in three different grants involving the Pipkins from 1782-1791.[18]
  • John Bentley, in his will dated December 15, 1728 and probated July 15, 1741 (will was found in Chowan County, North Carolina Courthouse, in Edenton, North Carolina) mentions his son William four times:[19]
    • "bequeath to my son William ye land and plantation he now lives on".
    • "to my son Joseph four cows and calves out of ye stock where my son William now lives"
    • Likewise my will is that my loving wife shall have ye benefit of ye stock that is at my son William's plantation
    • appoint my loving wife Sarah Bentley and my son William to be my exectrix and executor
  • On January 17, 1732, in Chowan Co., William W. was the witness to a grant of land between John Pipkin Sr. to John Pipkin Jr. (note this record establishes William's middle initial as W.)[20]
  • On July 7,1736 a grant of 320 acres (Chowan Co.) was made from Samuel Merrett, to William W. This grant also makes reference a grant of land made to William on February 22, 1719. [21]
Tyrell

(formed in 1729 as Tyrrell Precinct of Albemarle County, from parts of Bertie Precinct, Chowan Precinct, Currituck Precinct, and Pasquotank Precinct)

  • appears that William W. moved to Tyrell Co., N.C. about 1733/4[22]
  • Aug. 13, 1734 William BENTLEY of "Terryl Precinct" deeded this land to John BENTLEY (same reference).From these records it appears that William BENTLEY moved to Tyrell Co., N.C. about 1733-4, and was father of a John BENTLEY who died in Tyrell Co. in 1754.[23]
  • Jun 1735, Tyrell County, North Carolina--It is ordered that William Bentley be overseer of the highways from the Pamico Road near the Beaver Dam to Smithwick Creek. (North Carolina State Archives)[24]
  • The will of this John BENTLEY, dated March 21, 1754 and probated in Tyrrell Co. in 1754.(Hathaway, Vol.I,p.79) mentions his wife Sarah and son, Isaac; "my mother" ; brothers William and James; and appoints William GARDINER, Jr. and Isaac GARDINER his executors.[25]
Edgecombe
  • 1741 formed from Bertie County.
  • 1746 part of Edgecombe County became Granville County;
  • 1758 another portion became Halifax County; and in
  • 1777 yet another part became Nash County.
  • William Bentley, the Elder owned land on 15 Nov. 1743. This reference if found in a later grant on 12 Nov. 1783. JESSE BATEMAN of Edgecombe Co., NC to WILLIM ALFORD of Wayne Co., NC for 50 pounds, 50 acres on the north side of Toisnot Swamp, south side of Bare Branch ADJ: JOHN HARPER. 1st to WILLIAM BENTLEY, the Elder on 15 Nov. 1743. WIT: JOHN WALTON, JAMES TART [Source: Edgecombe Co., NC DB4, page 288. 12 Nov. 1783] QfromPM: does the reference to William, the elder, imply he had a son named William?
  • William BENTLEY was granted 400 acres in Edgecombe County, N.C. July 27, 1743 (N.C. Colonial & State Records, Vol. 4, p. 638) and apparently moved to Edgecombe Co., where on Dec. 30, 1769 he and his wife Elizabeth made a deed of gift of 250 acres to their son, Joshua, the said deed to take effect after the death of William and his Wife (Edgecombe Co., D.B."OO", p. 199). [26]
    • The son Joshua was still living in Edgecombe Co., in the U.S. Census of 1790.
  • The major creek on the north side of the Neuse River between Little Contentnea Creek and Mocassin Creek is Toisnot Swamp Creek (10). The family of Simon and Elizabeth Bentley Daniel Sr lived on Toisnot Creek in Edgecombe County. A son, Simon Daniel Junior, married ___ Pettypool, daughter of Stephen and Sarah Pettypool, and moved to Camden District, South Carolina. (found on Colonial Pettypool-Poole-P'Poole Families, Edgecombe and Johnston Counties, North Carolina)
  • 1747 May 30. (most likely William Bentley of Edgecombe County to Simon Daniel for the love and good will I bear my son-in-law, 150 acres on the north side of Tosneott Swamp, joining the mouth of the Deep branch, the mouth of Bear Branch and the swamp, part of 400 acres granted in 1743. Witnesses: Thomas (X) Amason , Levin Buffkin Jr, Registered February Court 1747. [DB-3, p 182] (found on Colonial Pettypool-Poole-P'Poole Families, Edgecombe and Johnston Counties, North Carolina)
  • c1750 Militia, Edgecombe Co., NC (found on Colonial Pettypool-Poole-P'Poole Families, Edgecombe and Johnston Counties, North Carolina)
    • William had a daughter Elizabeth
    • Solomon Alston, Capt.
    • Nathan Barns, Ens.
    • Joshua Bentley, Sarg
    • William Daniel
    • Simond Daniel
    • John Daniel
  • 1768 May 26. Estate of Simon Daniel, to wife, Elizabeth Daniel, residue of estate, cattle, hogs, horses and sheep, also household goods during widowhood, then to be divided between children. To son William Daniel, cow and calf; to son Simon Daniel, 2 cows and calves; to son Elijah Daniel, a mare, cow and calf, rifel gun; to daughters Mary and Darkis, a cow and calf each. Wife Elizabeth and son William, executors. Witnesses: John Stansell, William Bentley, Joshua Bentley. (found on Colonial Pettypool-Poole-P'Poole Families, Edgecombe and Johnston Counties, North Carolina)
  • The person who cites these records claims (found on Colonial Pettypool-Poole-P'Poole Families, Edgecombe and Johnston Counties, North Carolina):
    • Stephen Pettypool (born: October 30, 1721 in Bristol Parish, Prince George Co., VA died: Abt. 1796 in Camden District, SC) married Sarah [?]Colwell m: Bef. 1753 in Lunenburg Co., VA ([?]Father: Edward Colwell [?]Mother: Tabitha Hill). Had eight children together, including
      • Unknown Pettypool who married Simon Daniel, Jr whose father was Simon Daniel, Sr and his mother: Elizabeth Bentley
  • He lists the following as references (from 10):
    • Edgecombe County, North Carolina Deed Book 3, p. 182, In:
      • Hofmann, M. M. (1969) Abstracts of Deeds, Edgecombe Precinct, Edgecombe County, North Carolina, 1732 thru 1758, As Found In:
        • Halifax County, North Carolina Public Registry Deed Books 1-2-3-4-5-6,
    • The Roanoke News Company, Weldon, NC, p. 90;
    • Edgecombe County, North Carolina Court Minutes, June 1760, Book 1, p. 296, In: ***Haun, W. P. (1985) Edgecombe County North Carolina County Court Minutes, 1774-1762, Book I, Durham, NC, p. 156; In:
        • Edgecombe County, North Carolina, Williams, R. S. & Griffin, M. G. (1980) Abstracts Of The Wills Of Edgecombe County, North Carolina 1733-1856, Joseph Watson & Son, Rocky Mount, NC, p. 97;
    • Edgecombe County, North Carolina, Militia Roll c. 1750's, State Archives of North Carolina, Raleigh, NC: File # TR 1-12: Edgecombe County, courtesy of http://freepages.genealogy.rootsweb.ancestry.com/~amasonamerson/1750mil.htm.
Onslow

(Settlers began arriving in 1713 in what was originally part of the colonial precincts of Carteret and New Hanover. Onslow County was formed in 1734)

  • June 11, 1763, in Onslow County, North Carolina, Robert Trawick deeded land (365 acres) to William BENTLEY (for 100 pounds) on the NW branch of New River, at lower side of mouth of Royall's Creek. Test: Jas., Jeter, William Bentley [27]
  • May 18, 1765. (Onslow Co.) William Bentley is mentioned as a "Test" in a land grant between Robert Trawick of Johnston County, North Carolina to Martin HAMMOND for ----ty six pounds 13 shillings, 4 pence 250 acres which was granted t o John Guess on Royal's creek to the dividing line between my son Robert and my son George Trawick land to John Farr's branch. Tests: Joshua Ballard, William Bentley, ------ Hammond (no given name) [28]
  • 1769 William Bentley appears on Onslow County, NC - List of Taxables, also included:
  • John Bentley, —– of John Bentley, —– of John Bentley
  • Arche* Hammond, Edward Hammond, Martin Hammond (William marries Jane Hammond in 1774 [29])
  • Oct. 12, 1772. William Bentley in Onslow is a Test to land grant between Martin Hammond to Edward Hammond for 3 pounds 3 acres on NW branch of New River whereon sd. Martin now lives at Edward Hammond's spring branch, between Edward and Martin Hammond. Tests: William Bentley, Benedick Hammond, Richard Brock.[30]
  • October 8,1774, in Onslow, Co., Wm (x) Bentley married a Jane Hammond, Thos. -x- Tucker (bd) and Wm. Cray, Jr. (wt). [31]and[32]
  • Feb. 22, 1774. William Bentley (Onslow Co.) was a Test in a deed fromJohn Jarrott to Richard Jarrott for 280 pounds 130 acres on south side of New River, Hayes Creek, Lewis's line, Richard Jarrott's line which land was bequeathed to John Jarrott by John Jarrott, Sr., deceased, which came to him from Governor Tryon in 1766 and from Nathl. Ennett, 1750. Tests: Wm. Bentley, Enoch Godfrey. Letitia Jarrott relinquishes her dower right in land.[33]
  • Mar. 25, 1774. Onslow Co., John Bentley and William Bentley to John Jarrott for 100 pounds 182 acres on Lower side of Ryals's creek, to EdwardHoward's line, bordering on John and William Bentley's, which is part of tract granted William Morgan, Dec. 9, 1737. Tests: Richard Brock, Edward Hammond, Edward Howard.[34]
  • Mar. 24, 1774. Onslow Co, William and John Bentley to Edward Howard for 62 pounds 10 shillings, one half of 365 acres or 183 acres on north side of NW branch of New River, at Howard's line, which was granted to Wm. Morgan, Dec. 9, 1737, on Ryals's creek. Tests: Edward Brock, Edward Hammond, John Jarrott. [35]

In North Carolina but no current profile on WikiTree

  1. May 3, 1766 Amos Bentley and Mrs Zilpha Simpson were married. [36]
  2. In the September 1771 term of the Court the orphans of Peter Bentley (Sarah and David) tuition by John Peason. [37]
  3. Thomas Bentley is listed in the muster of Maryland troops, he served as a private from October 23 1779 to January 2 1780 (recorded as deserted). This record would suggest there was a Thomas Bentley in Maryland as late as 1780.[38] Thomas #1 is credited as serving in the Revolutionary War by GAVE SUPPLIES; OATH OF ALLEGIANCE, 4 NOV 1777 in North Carolina.

Bentley Families in Early Georgia

Based on the Bentley profiles and the early records of Georgia, it appears the Bentley name began showing up in Georgia in approximately 1760

  • William Bentley II children might have been born in GA, will was probated 1792
    • John not sure where he was born in 1759
    • Lewis Bentley was born about 1764 [uncertain] in GA based on his profile (need source)
  • James Bentley was born (abt. 1778 - abt. 1850) is GA based on his profile (need source). Parents unknown
  • John Townsend Bentley Born 27 May 1786 in Wilkes, Georgia based on profile (need source). Parent unknown
  • Samuel1796 court record state, "Samuel, orphan of Elizabeth Bentley, chooses Phillip Moss, guardian. Alex Moss and Benjamin Thomas, Security"[39] but his profile lists him being born in 1772 in Virginia, making him 24 years old when he chose his guardian was appointed in Georgia?
  • Jeremiah Jeremiah is listed as an appraiser in 1794, meaning he was an adult living in Georgia by 1794. (source: Page 110: JACKSON, DRURY, dec'd. Inventory Apr. 2, 1794. Horses, cattle, one slave Ned, household effects. Sanders Walker, Reuben Ballard, Jeremiah Bentley, Theodrick Stubblefield, apprs.) (no parents)

The Bentley name appears a number of times in the records of early Georgia (1777-1833)[40] This book's index lists a number of Bentley

  • Abi 195, 196
    • Page 195: July 7, 1817. Petition of Clarissa Lindsey, Admx., John Lindsey, dec'd. to sell all the real estate. Jeremiah Bentley, dec'd. Thomas Wootten, Joseph Alexander and Abi Bently appointed Admrs.
    • Page 196: Petition of Thomas Wootten, Joseph Alexander and Abi Bently, Admrs., Jeremiah Bently, dec'd, to divide the slaves.
  • Balaam 239, 242, 258, 265 (William II had a son Balaam)
    • Page 239: BENTLY, JOHN to Balaam Bentley 100 on Loyds creek adj. Jacob Kinnebrew and Francis Trawick. June 7, 1786. Peter Smith, Robt. Hamilton, Test.
    • Page 242: FLUKER, OWEN to Wm. Walker 900 acres on Ogechee river orig. grant 1784 to said Fluker. Jan. 25, 1785. John Ragan, Balaam Bentley, Sanders Walker, Test.
    • Page 258: BENTLY, WILLIAM to Philemon Bird, 300 acres on Little river adj. John Bell according to orig. grant to said Bentley. Jan. 1787. Daniel Price, Balaam Bentley, Job Bird, Test.
    • Page 265: BENTLEY, BALAAM to John Flandenham, 200 acres (???) 1787. Robt. Hamilton, Test.
  • Catherine 52
    • Page 52: BENTLEY, WILLIAM. After the death of wife Jane property to be divided among my dear children, John, Lewis, Susannah, James and Catharine. Wife Jane and trusty friends Benjamin Ballard and Peter Smith, Excr. Signed Feb. 26, 1791. Probated May 2, 1792. Peter Smith, John Chandler, Wm. Hammock, Sr., Sarah Thornton, Test.
  • Cynthia 196
    • Page 196 September 1817 Thomas Wootten appointed guardian of Cynthia and James Bentley, orphans of Jeremiah Bentley, dec'd. Wm. A. Bentley appointed guardian of Jeremiah Bently, orphan of Jeremiah Bently, dec'd. William Cole, Security. Petition of Jesse H. Bramblett guardian of William Bramblett a lunatic to sell the real estate.
  • Eliz. 130
    • Page 130: Samuel, orphan of Elizabeth Bentley chooses Phillip Moss, guardian. Alex Moss and Benjamin Thomas, Security.
  • Jane 52
    • Page 52: BENTLEY, WILLIAM. After the death of wife Jane property to be divided among my dear children, John, Lewis, Susannah, James and Catharine. Wife Jane and trusty friends Benjamin Ballard and Peter Smith, Excr. Signed Feb. 26, 1791. Probated May 2, 1792. Peter Smith, John Chandler, Wm. Hammock, Sr., Sarah Thornton, Test.
  • Jas.(James is mentioned on pages 52, 196, 316, 331
    • page 52 : BENTLEY, WILLIAM. After the death of wife Jane property to be divided among my dear children, John, Lewis, Susannah, James and Catharine. Wife Jane and trusty friends Benjamin Ballard and Peter Smith, Excr. Signed Feb. 26, 1791. Probated May 2, 1792. Peter Smith, John Chandler, Wm. Hammock, Sr., Sarah Thornton, Test. This is believed to be this James Bentley son of William
    • Page 196: September 1817 Thomas Wootten appointed guardian of Cynthia and James Bentley, orphans of Jeremiah Bentley, dec'd. Wm. A. Bentley appointed guardian of Jeremiah Bently, orphan of Jeremiah Bently, dec'd. William Cole, Security. Petition of Jesse H. Bramblett guardian of William Bramblett a lunatic to sell the real estate.
    • Page 316: 1803 Land Lottery: Bentley, James 1 draw
    • Page 331: 1819 Land Lottery: Bentley, James 2
  • Jere 75
    • Page 75: HOLMES, JOHN. To wife Cloe whole estate for life. To dau. Apsilla Milner, beds, cows, etc. To dau. Penelope Milner horse, bed, etc. which she has already received. To dau. Mary Parks, ditto, already received. Land to be divided among his four sons, Josiah, John, and James, called oldest. To Moses a slave Isaac also. To dau. Elizabeth and son Moses a horse each at majority. Wife Chloe, Geo. Willis, Sr., Jere. Bentley and my three oldest sons, Josiah, John and James, Excrs. Signed Sept. 4, 1802. Probated Mar. 8, 1803. Jeremiah Reeves, Malachi Reeves, Test.
  • Jeremiah 110, 195, 196, 245, 314
    • Page 110: JACKSON, DRURY, dec'd. Inventory Apr. 2, 1794. Horses, cattle, one slave Ned, household effects. Sanders Walker, Reuben Ballard, Jeremiah Bentley, Theodrick Stubblefield, apprs.
    • Page 195: July 7, 1817. Petition of Clarissa Lindsey, Admx., John Lindsey, dec'd. to sell all the real estate. Jeremiah Bentley, dec'd. Thomas Wootten, Joseph Alexander and Abi Bently appointed Admrs. Petition of Royland Beasley, Admr., Richard Beasley, dec'd. to sell the real estate 350 acres on Newford creek. Petition of John G. Butler of Chatham Co., planter, one of the distributees of John Butler of Chatham Co., dec'd and by consent of Joseph Armstrong, Admr, in right of his wife and by consent of the court of Ordinary of Chatham Co., where administration of said estate was granted, to divide that part of the personal estate in Wilkes Co.
    • Page 196: September 1817 Thomas Wootten appointed guardian of Cynthia and James Bentley, orphans of Jeremiah Bentley, dec'd. Wm. A. Bentley appointed guardian of Jeremiah Bently, orphan of Jeremiah Bently, dec'd. William Cole, Security. Petition of Jesse H. Bramblett guardian of William Bramblett a lunatic to sell the real estate. [Note from John: is there a Jeremiah who died around 1817 with three kids Cynthia and James and Jeremiah Bently, all orphans of Jeremiah Bently? see Jeremiah profile that contains this info but not links to anyone else]
    • Page 245: PALMER, SOLOMON to Reuben Ballard 250 acres on Mill creek, a branch of Fishing creek, part of orig. grant 1784 of 550 acres to said Palmer. Mar. 12, 1785. Jeremiah Bentley, Joshua Burnet, Test.
    • Page 314: 1803 Land Lottery: Bentley, Jeremiah 2 draws
  • Jemimah 244
    • Page 244: HEARD, STEPHEN, Esqr., to Sanders Walker 400 acres on Buckhorn creek. Aug. 20, 1785. Jemimah Bentley, Sarah Stallings, Anna Walker, Test.
  • Jesse 268
    • Page 268: BENTLEY, JESSE and wife Mary to James Green 100 acres on the south bank of South Fork of Little river just above said Bentley's mill seat. July 16, 1787. A. Bedell, A. J., Test.
  • John 52, 236, 239, 316, 317
    • Page 52: BENTLEY, WILLIAM. After the death of wife Jane property to be divided among my dear children, John, Lewis, Susannah, James and Catharine. Wife Jane and trusty friends Benjamin Ballard and Peter Smith, Excr. Signed Feb. 26, 1791. Probated May 2, 1792. Peter Smith, John Chandler, Wm. Hammock, Sr., Sarah Thornton, Test.
    • Page 236:ANDERSON, GIDEON to the deacons of the Baptist Society of Uptons Creek meeting house, viz: John Bentley and Benedict Hammeck all the land whereon the said meeting house stands and two acres, and the use of the spring for five shillings. Sept. 24, 1785. Peter Smith, Mark Sanders, Test.
    • Page 239:-BENTLY, JOHN to Balaam Bentley 100 on Loyds creek adj. Jacob Kinnebrew and Francis Trawick. June 7, 1786. Peter Smith, Robt. Hamilton, Test.
    • Page 316: 1803 Land Lottery: Bentley, John 1 draw
    • Page 317: 1803 Land Lottery: Bentley, John 2 draws [note: does this indicated two John Bentley were entitled to 3 draws. (see explanation of draws)
  • Lewis 52, 316
    • Page 52: BENTLEY, WILLIAM. After the death of wife Jane property to be divided among my dear children, John, Lewis, Susannah, James and Catharine. Wife Jane and trusty friends Benjamin Ballard and Peter Smith, Excr. Signed Feb. 26, 1791. Probated May 2, 1792. Peter Smith, John Chandler, Wm. Hammock, Sr., Sarah Thornton, Test.
    • Page 316: 1803 Land Lottery: Bentley, James 1 draw
  • Mary 268
    • Page 268:-BENTLEY, JESSE and wife Mary to James Green 100 acres on the south bank of South Fork of Little river just above said Bentley's mill seat. July 16, 1787. A. Bedell, A. J., Test.
  • Milley 58
    • will of HAMMOCK, ROBERT, Sr (Signed July 9, 1799) To Milley Bentley $16.00, which is to be considered her lawful claim against the estate.
  • Samuel 62, 130
    • Page 62: McCLENDON, JACOB. To son Francis all the land on Morris's creek and slave Dick. To son Stephen, remainder of land where I live and slaves Peter, Beck, Abel, and Fann. To dau. Amy Hill slaves Nann, Darcus, and Sally. To dau. Nancy McClendon slaves Fellan and Isabell, etc. Francis McClendon, Theopilus Hill, and Azariah Bailey, Excrs. Signed Mar. 9, 1799. Probated July 9, 1799. Jesse Bailey, Wm. Bailey, Samuel Bentley, Test.
    • Page 130: July 1796 Samuel, orphan of Elizabeth Bentley chooses Phillip Moss, guardian. Alex Moss and Benjamin Thomas, Security.
  • Susannah 52
    • Page 52: BENTLEY, WILLIAM. After the death of wife Jane property to be divided among my dear children, John, Lewis, Susannah, James and Catharine. Wife Jane and trusty friends Benjamin Ballard and Peter Smith, Excr. Signed Feb. 26, 1791. Probated May 2, 1792. Peter Smith, John Chandler, Wm. Hammock, Sr., Sarah Thornton, Test.
  • Wm. 27, 52, 241, 258
    • Page 27: Wrightsborough, 13th. January 1775, BENTLEY, WILLIAM--S. C. a wife, 3 sons from 16 to 11 years old. 100 acres on north side of north fork of Little river half mile below James White's land. AND
    • Page 27:HAMMOCK, BENEDICK--N. C. a wife, 5 sons and 1 dau. from 17 to 2 years old. 200 acres on south side of north fork of Little river opposite Wm. Bentley
      • Part of the "The Ceded Lands" Court of 1773-1775 (more about Ceded Land Court below) Records of the Court of Land Commissioners APPOINTED BY GOVERNOR WRIGHT TO ISSUE THE "CEDED LANDS"--1773 to 1775. A List of Persons who have Applied to the Commissioners Appointed by his Excellency Sir. Jas. Wright Barronet to receive Vouchers; and have Obtained liberty to Settle on the Lands Ceeded to His Majesty
    • Page 52: Page 52: BENTLEY, WILLIAM. After the death of wife Jane property to be divided among my dear children, John, Lewis, Susannah, James and Catharine. Wife Jane and trusty friends Benjamin Ballard and Peter Smith, Excr. Signed Feb. 26, 1791. Probated May 2, 1792. Peter Smith, John Chandler, Wm. Hammock, Sr., Sarah Thornton, Test.
    • Page 241 :BEAL, JOHN to Benedick Hammock 400 acres on Little river adj. Andrew Armor, John Townsend and Wm. Bentley, orig. grant 1784 to said Beal. Nov. 5, 1785. Benj. Catchings, J. P., D. Terrell, Test.
    • Page 258: BENTLY, WILLIAM to Philemon Bird, 300 acres on Little river adj. John Bell according to orig. grant to said Bentley. Jan. 1787. Daniel Price, Balaam Bentley, Job Bird, Test.
  • Wm. A. 196
    • Page 196 September 1817 Thomas Wootten appointed guardian of Cynthia and James Bentley, orphans of Jeremiah Bentley, dec'd. Wm. A. Bentley appointed guardian of Jeremiah Bently, orphan of Jeremiah Bently, dec'd. William Cole, Security.

Notes obtained from above source about Ceded Lands and Land Lotteries:

  • LOTTERY OF 1803 EXPLANATORY
    • The land given out in this lottery was obtained from the Creek Indians in a treaty at Fort Wilkinson, June 16, 1802, and included "the Territory south of the Oconee and Altamaha rivers". This land was divided into three counties, Wayne, Wilkinson and Baldwin. The lots in Wayne consisted of 490 acres each, those in Baldwin and Wilkinson 202 1/2 acres each, three thousand two hundred and forty acres reserved for a town to be called Milledgeville.
    • Those entitled to draw were every free white male twenty-one years and upwards, and an inhabitant of the state twelve months immediately preceding the passage of this act, who had paid tax, one draw; every free white male having a wife and one or more legitimate children, two draws; all widows having legitimate child or children, two draws; all families of orphans having no parents living, two draws.
  • LAND LOTTERY OF 1819
    • The land given out in this lottery was obtained from the Creek and Cherokee Indians by the United States in several treaties, one at Fort Jackson, Aug. 9, 1814, and one at the Cherokee Agency, July 8, 1817, and one at the Creek Agency on Flint river, Jan. 22, 1818, and included the original boundaries of Early, Irwin, Appling, Walton, Hall, Gwinnett, and Habersham counties. The land lots in Irwin and Appling counties contained 490 acres each, in the others 250 acres each.
    • Those entitled to draw were every free white male eighteen years of age and upwards, being a citizen of the United States and an inhabitant of this state three years immediately preceding this act, and all who served as drafted men or volunteers in the late Indian War, provided they had resided and continue to reside in this state since said service was performed, one draw; all officers and soldiers of the Revolutionary War who are indigent or invalid, two draws in addition to those heretofore authorized by law; should they have been fortunate drawers in previous lotteries, one draw; every male person of like description having a wife or legitimate male child or children under eighteen years, or unmarried female child or children, two draws; all widows with like residence one draw; all widows or orphans of soldiers killed in the late wars with Great Britian and the Indians, one draw, in addition to those already allowed widows and orphans by this act; all families of orphans under twenty-one years old whose father is dead, one draw; all orphans whose father and mother are both dead, two draws. Any citizen of the state who was legally drafted in the late war against Great Britain and the Indians who refused to serve either in person or by substitute, or who evaded a draft by leaving the state or county in which they resided, were not entitled to draw.
  • CEDED LAND Court
    • "The Ceded Lands" Court of 1773-1775 to dispose of the "Ceded Lands" for location and settlement. The Treaty ? provide, by a sale of the land, for the payment of the debts due by the Indians to the Traders, and to pay the expenses attending it. ...public invitations were made by the then Governor to the people of the middle provinces, to come and procure allotments, and to settle the said land. And so it was that many did come, to whom, as well as to persons then residing in the Province, numerous allotments were made; and the Treaty was thus rapidly and fully carrying into effect, when that and all other civil and municipal agencies were arrested and forced to give way to the operations of the Revolution.
    • "That the Commission ceasing to have effect, nothing further was done respecting the land of the cession, until after the Declaration of Independence and the establishment of a Constitution for the government of the State, in which Constitution the land was considered within its jurisprudential limits. was formed into a County and called Wilkes.
    • "That the War of the Revolution taking place of this and all other concerns nothing material was further done with the ceded lands, then Wilkes County, ??other than the holders of allotments and friends to the Revolution exercising the rights of ownership and suffrager until January cession of the Legislature in the year one thousand seven hundred and eighty(???)
    • Judge S. G. McLendon, then Secretary of State. He showed great interest in it, and stated that during the last years of the Revolution a number of grants were issued by the State for tracts alloted in this record, of which no record was kept in the office of the Secretary of State, and that several such original grants had been brought in for comparison, only to find that the State had no record of them.
    • Probably the history of the Record itself and how it comes to be in the archives of Greene County will always remain a mystery. It is properly a state record and should be expected to be found in the office of the Secretary of State. Even if the State had turned it over to a county, as was done in South Carolina after the Revolution, it would naturally go to Wilkes County, where most of the tracts described still lie. Greene County, formed in 1786, got part of its territory from Wilkes and so received part of the Ceded Lands. But so did other counties, including Elbert and Lincoln.


Under construction

Not organized yet but might have helpful info related to William Bentley in NC or Georgia

Another of William BENTLEY'S sons (Robert) probably married a daughter of John STANSELL, whose will dated Aug 22, 1750 and probated at the March court, 1750/1751 (Grimes, p.359) mentions his wife Sarah, sons John and Godfrey, and daughters Elizabeth BARBER, Rebecca STANSELL and Mary BENTLEY (she was the wife of Robert BENTLEY).[41]


note from PM: In 1775 a second William Bentley also begins to appear in Georgia Will of a William Bentley (Bertie Co.)mentioning another William[42]

  • Inventory 18 Feb 1779 in Bertie Precinct, North Carolina.
"Equal Division of Decedents Estate between:
1. Elizabeth Barber
2. William Bentley
3. Arthur Rascoe
4. John Bentley
5. Duren White Bentley
6. James Bentley
7. Susannah Bentley
8. Mildred Bentley
9. Ann Bentley
10. Robert Bentley
11. Martha Bentley"
  • 18 Feb 1781 in Bertie Precinct, North Carolina.
"It is ordered that 1/3 of estate is to be alloted to Elizabeth Barber, former widow of the decedent."
The source of these citations[43] claim they refer to William W. and the will is referring to his son William II. This source also claims the Elizabeth Barber mentioned in the will is Elizabeth Ashley who appears in the North Carolina state census records for 1784 and 1787 in Bertie Precinct. After the death of William Bentley I, she married Charles Henry BARBER (12 Apr 1780)
Allan also includes Note:This 1/3 share was the Dower of William Bentley's wife, Elizabeth Ashley.This shows that by 1781 Elizabeth had remarried to Charles BARBER.

(Need to figure out how William is related to Decedent and others mentioned)

Allan also connects the following info from Bodie with the William with 1779 will:

William BENTLEY'S wife Elizabeth was probably a sister of William ASHLEY of Princess Anne Co., Virgina, whose will, dated Oct. 4, 1729 and probated March 1, 1731 (Princess Anne Co., Bk.4, p.382), leaves a negro to "my child, if my wife Mary be with child"; otherwise to "my sister Elizabeth BENTLEY, she living in the hither side of North Carolina in a place called Serum".[44]
Nothing further is known of William BENTLEY'S family except that the grandson, Isaac BENTLEY. son of the son John, seems to have moved to Martin Co., N.C., where he died in 1774 leaving a will which mentions only his wife Sarah (Olds "Abstracts of N.C. Wills).
The son Joshua in his will, probated in Edgecombe Co. in 1799, mentions as legatees Martha (probably the wife) TURNEL, Martha, and Joshua (probably children) (Olds, op.cit.). [45]

note from PM: These records are after William's will was inventoried in 1779, so indicate a second William in NC In 1782 a William Bentley (Chowan) received a voucher from the State of North Carolina, Chowan Co. for providing "two hundred weight of fish and beef for the supply of the Continental Army by order of the government, dated January 29, 1782[46]

January 9, 1783 - William Bentley's land inOnslow Co. is mentioned in a deed from Edward HOWARD, Cooper, to William SHIVER, carpenter , for 200 pounds 200 acres at Joseph HAWKIN'S and said SHIV ER'S dividing line, on Royal's creek. Including KIFF'S and BENTLEY'S fields and joins Bishop DUDLEY'S. Test: Gen. ME RRICK, Titus HOWARD, Bishop DUDLEY, John FARR. [47]

North Carolina (Chowan Co) probate records show that in 1786/7 the estate of William Bentley (represented by Samuel Dickerson (sp?)) had a dispute with George Dare and his widow Ann Dare. The Court ruled against the Bentley Estate. [48]

note from PM: Is this a second William who died or related to the first William's death

These records show beside William who died at least two other Williams in NC in 1792

The following (if correct) shows a William Bentley living in Bertie County in November of 1787.[49]

The book, Free African Americans of North Carolina, Virginia, and South Carolina, Volume 2, states, "Hannah, 'daughter of Sarah Simmons' ordered bound apprentice William Bentley in Bertie County by the November 1787 Court

William Bentley, of Bertie Co. 1790 census Bertie, North Carolina, United States list a William Bentley (1,2,3,-,-) six people in HH 3 men, 3 women [50]

William Bentley, of Craven Co. 1790 US Census for Craven Co, North Carolina list a William Bentley (1,1,4,x,x) meaning there were six people in the househould, including 2 men and 4 women. [51]

William Bentley Research Notes

The name William is very common in early America. From the 1600s to the 1700s the number of Williams with fathers, sons or brothers named William or John, makes tracking the Bentley line very difficult. This section will attempt to add some clarification to the confusing web of Bentley in early America. If you the reader, have any information to add to this Bentley Web of Williams, please feel free to add it here or send a message to the PM

William Bentley in Georgia

In January, 1775, William Bentley's name appears in A List of Persons who have Applied to the Commissioners Appointed by his Excellency Sir. Jas. Wright Barronet to receive Vouchers; and have Obtained liberty to Settle on the Lands Ceeded to His Majesty:

Wrightsborough, 13th. January 1775
BENTLEY, WILLIAM--S. C. a wife, 3 sons from 16 to 11 years old. 100 acres on north side of north fork of Little river half mile below James White's land.[52]

August 5, 1777--Inhabitants to the President of Congress, August 5, 1777, Bentley, William Bentley, Wilkes County (GA). Certified by the Governor and Council of Georgia, September 26, 1777 (North Carolina State Archives, Inhabitants to the President of Congress)[53]

In August, 1784 William was issued a certificate for his service in the Revolutionary War. Colonel Elijah Clark is mentioned on the certificate entitling him "to a bounty, and prays for 287 1/2 acres in Washington Co.[54]

The Revolutionary Records of the State of Georgia indicate that on July 28 and September 24, 1784, the Governor of Georgia issued William Bentley 200 and 300 acres of land in Wilkes County.[55]

Will of William Bentley in Georgia 1792

William's will (probated in 1792 in Wilkes County, Georgia) lists his beloved wife Jane, two youngest children Balaam, Joshua and his dear children John, Lewis, Susannah, James, and Catherine.

Page 10--BENTLEY, WILLIAM. After the death of wife Jane property to be divided among my dear children, John, Lewis, Susannah, James and Catharine. Wife Jane and trusty friends Benjamin Ballard and Peter Smith, Excr. Signed Feb. 26, 1791. Probated May 2, 1792. Peter Smith, John Chandler, Wm. Hammock, Sr., Sarah Thornton, Test[56]

The two citations to the same will list different children

It should be noted however, this will was obtained from Allan Bentley's information on genealogy.com. On Rootsweb, Allan now has the William Bentley (the son of William W. and Elizabeth Ashley) living only in North Carolina with no wife or known children. [see profile here]. On Rootsweb, Allan now has a different William listed as the husband of Elizabeth and the father of the children listed on this Williams profile ([available here]. It should be noted however, this will was obtained from Allan Bentley's information on genealogy.com. On Rootsweb, Allan now has the William Bentley (the son of William W. and Elizabeth Ashley) living only in North Carolina with no wife or known children. [see profile here] On Rootsweb, Allan now has a different William listed as the husband of Elizabeth and the father of the children listed on this Williams profile ([available here] [57]

Marriage to Mary Eliot

Wiki current has 3 profiles with William Bentley's married to Mary Eliot:

William Bentley Jr(1677-1760)Mary Eliot and Mary Eliot (1685-??) and (1687-1752)
William Bentley IV (1679-1751)Mary Eliot (1687-1752)
William II(1729-1792)Mary Jane Eliot (1730-??)

It would appear there were at least two marriage between unrelated William Bentleys and Mary Eliots. The first two listed above are probably one marriage (possibly taking place on 21 Apr 1703) between a William and Mary in a generation before the third William and Mary Jane (both born in 1730). At this time they do not appear to be related. The other wikitree Williams in the chart above lived in MA and RI.

As mentioned below, DAR records have two William Bentley's, the William is listed with a wife of Jane. The record for the other William lists a wife of Mary Eliot. The other William in the DAR records state he also served in GA. Could the two DAR records be for the same person. The children names in both DAR records match the names of the children in this William's will.

William Bentleys serving in the Revolutionary War

info moved up to conflated William profile section

Children of William Bentley

The will of this William lists the names of his children.

Others have Balaam listed as the son of a different William Father: Daniel BENTLEY b: Abt 1690 in Raliegh Parish, Amelia County, Virginia Mother: Anne MILLER [allan bentley cite]

More sources are needed to figure out which William moved to GA and had the children including Balaam.

Other William Bentley

A William Bentley murdered his wife Phebe (Paine) in Massachusetts 1799: Phebe Paine born Oct. 21, 1746, mar. 1st, Seth Covil; 2d, Samuel Monroe; 3d, William Bently, by whom she was murdered, Oct. 15, 1799 (https://books.google.com/books?output=text&id=eyocy7cBriYC&jtp=291)

A William Bentley is listed in a 1867/68 Business Directory of North Carolina as a postmaster in Seaboard, NC. [available here]

The following information was obtained from pension application (S31788) of Giles Kelly (Kelley).[58] This application states that in September or October, 1781 William Bentley and two others "all went down to Head Quarters & joined General Wayne's [Anthony Wayne's] Army at Ebenezer, Effingham County Georgia above Savannah". This application goes on to describe the service of Giles Kelley. Other than joining together it is not clear if William was present with Giles for the all service described in the following application:

He entered this service as a Volunteer Private, Militia Infantry, State authority of Georgia rendezvoused & entered as above stated at Ebenezer in the State of Georgia, they passed through Augusta & through Burke County in going to Head Quarters, his Captain's name was Carr --called Paddy Carr, he was an Irishman. He believes his Christian name was John, the other officers names not now recollected.
There was a large Army there; -- he entered this service in November 1781, -- served with an embodied Corps there one month & 15 days. Whilst stationed there Captain Carr with 25 men made a scout one night, reconnoitered & advanced on the Savannah road, getting out 3 or 4 miles from Camp he perceived British Dragoons following, and it was moon light he was one of the 25 men, the Dragoons were apparently 200 in number & was heard at a considerable distance from the noise of their horses & seen too,
Captain Carr had his men placed in ambuscade at the head of 2 branches divided into 2 parties & ordered one party to fire on their front advance & the other to reserve & fire on the last of the enemy -- this was done, all wheeled about rushed ahead & passed through or near the outskirts of the Army at Ebenezer -- with equal surprise to both, the British expecting capture & the Americans an attack. Seven [?] horses were shot & got by his Company & two men were wounded & taken -- to understand this it must be recollected that a scouting party was going towards Savannah, so too where the British Dragoons having come in behind them & between them & the American Army, on the firing the British wheeled about, & rushed rapidly past & near the outskirts of the Americans at Ebenezer, there being several directions of the road there & thus escaped. His Company shot badly, as both parties shot, the wheeling of the British it ought to have done more injury. -- he understood the British had possession of Savannah whilst he was stationed & served at Ebenezer. He was discharged at Ebenezer in December 1781 by his Captain, Carr, without any written discharge. -- Length of service one month & 15 days

Bentley Lines fromGenealogist Allan Bentley

Father: John BENTLEY b: Abt 1679 in Chowan County, North Carolina
Mother: Sarah FARLEE b: in Bertie County, North Carolina
Birth: 1702 in Chowan County, North Carolina
Death: Abt 1778 in Bertie County, North Carolina
Burial: Bertie County, North Carolina
Marriage 2 Mar 1721 in Bertie County, North Carolina to Elizabeth Ashley b 24 Sep 1708 in Hartford, Connecticut, Children:
Joshua b: in North Carolina (no profile on wiki)
Martha b: in North Carolina (no profile on wiki)
Susannah b: in North Carolina (Susannah listed as child of William II
Duren White Bentley b: in North Carolina (no profile on wiki)
Mildred b: Abt 1721 in North Carolina
Ann b: Abt 1721 in Chowan County, North Carolina
Robert b: Abt 1723 in North Carolina
John b: Abt 1724 in North Carolina
James b: Abt 1725 in North Carolina
Elizabeth b: Abt 1725 in Edgecombe County, North Carolina
Sarah b: Abt 1725 in Edgecombe County, North Carolina (no profile on wiki)
William b: Abt 1729 in Chowan County, North Carolina
Father: William W. BENTLEY b: 1702 in Chowan County, North Carolina
Mother: Elizabeth ASHLEY b: 24 Sep 1708 in Hartford, Connecticut
Birth: Abt 1729 in Chowan County, North Carolina
Death: Y
No Wife or kids
Most of the kids listed on Allan's William b.1749NC are list as children for William Bentley II
The Wikitree profile for William II also says this William died in 1792 inWilkes CO., Georgia, United States and attributes the will in Georgia to this William.
The transcribed will in William II profile lists his beloved wife Jane, two youngest children Balaam, Joshua and his dear children John, Lewis, Susannah, James, and Catherine.
However, a citation to the will, leaves out Balaam and Joshua
Page 10--BENTLEY, WILLIAM. After the death of wife Jane property to be divided among my dear children, John, Lewis, Susannah, James and Catharine. Wife Jane and trusty friends Benjamin Ballard and Peter Smith, Excr. Signed Feb. 26, 1791. Probated May 2, 1792. Peter Smith, John Chandler, Wm. Hammock, Sr., Sarah Thornton, Test[59]
Need to figure out if will belongs to this William and which kids belong to him.
On WikiTree his father is William II the son of William W, the son of John
Father: John Bentley wikitree profile b: Abt 1711 in Richmond County, Virginia
Mother: Christian HAMMOCK b: 28 May 1735 in North Farnham Parish, Richmond County, Virginia
Birth: Abt 1749 in Onslow County, North Carolina
Death: May 1792 in Wilkes County, Georgia
Marriage: 8 Oct 1774 in Onslow County, North Carolina to Jane HAMMOND who had Children:
John b: Abt 1774 in North Carolina
Lewis b: Abt 1775 in North Carolina
Susannah Marie "Susie" b: Abt 1777
James b: 1778 in Anne Arundel County, Maryland, USA
Catherine b. Uknown
Balaam b: 1780 in South Carolina
Joshua b: Abt 1781 in Anne Arundel Co., Maryland, USA
Father: Daniel BENTLEY b: Abt 1690 in Raliegh Parish, Amelia County, Virginia
Mother: Anne MILLER
Birth: Bef 1720 in North Farnham Parish, Richmond County, Virginia
Christening: 13 Mar 1720 North Farnham Parish, Richmond County, Virginia
Death: Abt 1792 in Wilkes County, Georgia
Marriage 1 Elizabeth Unknown in Abt 1745 in North Carolina
Jesse b: 1746 in North Carolina
Chloe b: 1749 in South Carolina
James b: Abt 1755 in North Carolina
John b: Abt 1759 in North Carolina
Balaam b: Abt 1763 in North Carolina
Catherine b: Abt 1766 in South Carolina
Unknown b: Abt 1768
Unknown b: Abt 1770
Unknown b: Abt 1772

Other Bentley Research Notes

Mary Bentley is listed as a daughter of John Stansell in his will Aug 22 1752, in Tyrrell County [60]

John Bentley(not sure who this John Bentley is) in the ELECTION OF COL. GEO. WASHINGTON, 1758. some names then For Colo. Martin. long list of names ending with John Buckley, Tobias Burk, John Bentley, Index Bentley, 23, 167, 170.


Not Current Table of Bentley

The Table may be sorted by clicking the buttons belowOLD TABLE

Last Name First Name Birth Year Birth Place Death Year Death Place Family Line
BentleyWilliam1589England1663VirginiaV1
BentleyRichard1636Virginia1687North CarolinaV1
BentleyJohn1679North Carolina1741North CarolinaV1
BentleyWilliam1702North Carolina1778North CarolinaV1
BentleyWilliam1729North Carolina1792GeorgiaV1
BentleyLewis1764Georgia1832AlabamaV1
BentleyWilliam1793Georgia1834AlabamaV1
BentleyJames1826Alabama1908ArkansasV1
BentleyLewis1861Mississippi1935OklahomaV1
BentleyWilliam1909Oklahoma1988New MexicoV1

Sources

  1. ↑ Cavaliers and Pioneers 1623-1800 [available online here]
  2. ↑ Allen Price's Complete List of of Early Virginia Immigrants, 1623-1666 (from book published 1912 by George Cabell Greer, now copyright-free) [available here] and link to [Cavaliers and Pioneers in spreadsheet format]
  3. ↑ Colonial Surry, John Bennett Boddie, 1948, Pages: 202, 213(?) [available here]
  4. ↑ English Duplicates of Lost Virginia Records compiled by Louis des Cognets, Jr, 1958, [http://www.ancestraltrackers.net/va/resources/english-duplicates-lost-virginia-records.pdf Page 172
  5. ↑ Cavaliers and pioneers; abstracts of Virginia land patents and grants, 1623-1800 by Nugent, Nell Marion; Virginia State Library; Virginia Genealogical Society. 1934. page 159 available here
  6. ↑ Cavaliers and pioneers; abstracts of Virginia land patents and grants, 1623-1800 by Nugent, Nell Marion; Virginia State Library; Virginia Genealogical Society. 1934. page 37 available here
  7. ↑ Colonial Surry, John Bennett Boddie, 1948, Pages: 188, 194, 197-8, 202, 213 [available here]
  8. ↑ English Duplicates of Lost Virginia Records, compiled by Louis des Cognets, Jr..1958, Page 172
  9. ↑ Cavaliers and pioneers; abstracts of Virginia land patents and grants, 1623-1800 by Nugent, Nell Marion; Virginia State Library; Virginia Genealogical Society. 1934. page 93 available here
  10. ↑ Cavaliers and pioneers; abstracts of Virginia land patents and grants, 1623-1800 by Nugent, Nell Marion; Virginia State Library; Virginia Genealogical Society. 1934. page 202 available here
  11. ↑ The original lists of persons of quality; emigrants, Hotten, John Camden, 1832-1873. Page 356
  12. ↑ Cavaliers and pioneers; abstracts of Virginia land patents and grants, 1623-1800 by Nugent, Nell Marion; Virginia State Library; Virginia Genealogical Society. 1934. page 286 available here
  13. ↑ Colonial Surry, John Bennett Boddie, 1948. Page 126
  14. ↑ "Virginia Births and Christenings, 1584-1917," database, FamilySearch (https://familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:VRRH-X15 : 5 December 2014), Daniel Bentley in entry for Alice Bentley, ; citing , reference ; FHL microfilm 975.523 V2K.
  15. ↑ "Virginia Births and Christenings, 1584-1917," database, FamilySearch (https://familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:VRRD-L3Q : 5 December 2014), Daniel Bentley, ; citing , reference ; FHL microfilm 975.523 V2K.
  16. ↑ SOUTHERN HISTORICAL FAMILIES by Boddie, Vol. XVI, Appendix V, pp pp. 173-174
  17. ↑ Crystall Bureau
  18. ↑ Gates County, North Carolina Land Deeds, 1776-1795, by Marilyn Poe Laird & Judith Krause Reid, 1977 (available here)
  19. ↑ Will of John Bentley transcribed by Allan Bentley, As cited in Allan Bentley Genealogy
  20. ↑ Chowan County Deed Book W, pg. 206-207. as cited by [Allan Bentley here]
  21. ↑ THE NORTH CAROLINA Historical and Genealogical Register, J. R. B. Hathaway, Editor and Financial Agent, Vol. I. January, 1900. No. 1. ABSTRACT OF LAND GRANTS. (Taken from the Secretary of State's office, Raleigh, N. C, for Shaftsbury Precinct, Chowan Precinct, and Chowan County.),p.116, [available here]
  22. ↑ SOUTHERN HISTORICAL FAMILIES by Boddie, Vol. XVI, Appendix V, pp pp. 173-174
  23. ↑ SOUTHERN HISTORICAL FAMILIES by Boddie, Vol. XVI, Appendix V, pp. 173-174
  24. ↑ Crystall Bureau citation to North Carolina State Archives, Abstracts of Wills and Various Probate Records; Record No 748 Record No 821 as cited by Crystall Bureau (and have not been independently verified) [available here]
  25. ↑ SOUTHERN HISTORICAL FAMILIES by Boddie, Vol. XVI, Appendix V, pp. 173-174
  26. ↑ SOUTHERN HISTORICAL FAMILIES by Boddie, Vol. XVI, Appendix V, pp. 173-174
  27. ↑ RECORDS OF ONSLOW COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA 1734-1850, Vol. I, by Zae Hargett Gwynn, 1961, Deed Book F, p.136. [available here]
  28. ↑ Deed Book H, RECORDS OF ONSLOW COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA 1734-1850, Vol. I, by Zae Hargett Gwynn, 1961, page 161 [available here]
  29. ↑ North Carolina, County Marriages, 1762-1979 ," database with images, FamilySearch (https://familysearch.org/pal:/MM9.1.1/QKJ3-MD3F : 4 November 2017), Wm Bentley and Jane Hammond, 08 Oct 1774; citing Onslow, North Carolina, United States, p. , Office of Archives and History, Division of Archives and Records. State Archive of North Carolina and various county Register of Deeds; FHL microfilm 276,241.
  30. ↑ Abstracts of the records of Onslow County, North ... v.1. North Carolina, Book I, page 209 [available here]
  31. ↑ "North Carolina, County Marriages, 1762-1979 ," database with images, FamilySearch (https://familysearch.org/ark:/61903/3:1:33S7-8BD2-RWR?cc=1726957&wc=QD8P-DLY%3A1588773327%2C1588773335 : 8 July 2016), Onslow image 266 of 3147; Office of Archives and History, Division of Archives and Records. State Archive of North Carolina and various county Register of Deeds.
  32. ↑ Abstracts of the records of Onslow County, North ... v.2. North Carolina, Marriage Bonds, page 1503 [available here]
  33. ↑ Abstracts of the records of Onslow County, North ... v.1. North Carolina, Book I, page 212 [available here]
  34. ↑ Abstracts of the records of Onslow County, North ... v.1. North Carolina, Book I, page 211-12 [available here]
  35. ↑ Abstracts of the records of Onslow County, North ... v.1. North Carolina, Book I, page 212 [available here]
  36. ↑ The North Carolina historical and genealogical register by Hathaway, J. R. B. (James Robert Bent), [p. 4i4]
  37. ↑ The North Carolina historical and genealogical register by Hathaway, J. R. B. (James Robert Bent), [p. 450]
  38. ↑ Muster Rolls and Other Records of Service of Maryland Troops in the American Revolution Volume 18, Page 89 available here
  39. ↑ Early records of Georgia, Wilkes County. By Grace Gillam, page 130 citing to The Minutes of the Inferior Court (1795-1796) available online here
  40. ↑ The Early Records of Georgia, Volume I, Wilkes County abstracted and compiled by Grace Gillam Davidson. The book was published in 1933 in Macon, Georgia available here
  41. ↑ SOUTHERN HISTORICAL FAMILIES by Boddie, Vol. XVI, Appendix V, pp. 173-174
  42. ↑ "RECORDS OF ESTATES-BERTIE COUNTY, N.C., VOL 1, 1728-1744, 1762-1790", By David B. Gammon, copy in Archives Library, Raliegh, N.C., p. 51-118 [as cited by Allan Bentley here]
  43. ↑ Crystall Bureau
  44. ↑ SOUTHERN HISTORICAL FAMILIES by Boddie, Vol. XVI, Appendix V, pp. 173-174
  45. ↑ SOUTHERN HISTORICAL FAMILIES by Boddie, Vol. XVI, Appendix V, pp. 173-174
  46. ↑ "North Carolina Revolutionary Pay Vouchers, 1779-1782," database with images, FamilySearch (https://familysearch.org/pal:/MM9.1.1/Q2WT-53BH : accessed 3 December 2016), William Bentley, 29 Jan 1782; citing Chowan, North Carolina, United States, State Archives of North Carolina, Raleigh.
  47. ↑ Abstracts of the records of Onslow County, North ... v.1. North Carolina.,Deed Book Q, Onslow County, NC. [available here]
  48. ↑ "North Carolina Estate Files, 1663-1979," database with images, FamilySearch [: 21 May 2014), Chowan County > B > image 3 of 13; State Archives, Raleigh.] available here]]
  49. ↑ Free African Americans of North Carolina, Virginia, and South Carolina, Volume 2 [available here]
  50. ↑ "United States Census, 1790," database with images, FamilySearch [: accessed 27 November 2016 available here], William Bently, Bertie, North Carolina, United States; citing p. 350, NARA microfilm publication M637, (Washington D.C.: National Archives and Records Administration, n.d.), roll 7; FHL microfilm 568,147.
  51. ↑ "United States Census, 1790," database with images, FamilySearch (https://familysearch.org/ark:/61903/3:1:33SQ-GYY8-3776?cc=1803959&wc=3XTM-BDF%3A1584071002%2C1584071036%2C1584070607 : 14 May 2015), North Carolina > Craven > image 4 of 5; citing NARA microfilm publication M637, (Washington D.C.: National Archives and Records Administration, n.d.).
  52. ↑ The Early Records of Georgia, Volume I, Wilkes County abstracted and compiled by Grace Gillam Davidson, published in 1933 at Macon, GA as cited on [available here]
  53. ↑ Crystall Bureau however also cites to William's will in NC in 1779
  54. ↑ "Georgia's Roster of the Revolution, Compiled under Authority of the Legislature by Lucian Lamar Knight, 1920 [available here]
  55. ↑ The Revolutionary Records of the State of Georgia, Volume II,1908, pages 679, 701 [available here]
  56. ↑ extracted from The Early Records of Georgia, Volume I, Wilkes County abstracted and compiled by Grace Gillam Davidson, published in 1933 at Macon, GA, Page 52 [available here]
  57. ↑ WILL OF WILLIAM BENTLEY WILKES COUNTY GEORGIA REGISTERS OFFICE Pages 15-17 WILL BOOK A. As recorded by Allan Bentley. [click here for a copy of Allan's transcription].
  58. ↑ Pension application of Giles Kelly (Kelley) S31788, transcribed by Transcribed by Will Graves 10/15/09: rev'd 3/30/16 [obtained from Southern Campaigns Revolutionary War Pension Statements & Rosters]
  59. ↑ extracted from The Early Records of Georgia, Volume I, Wilkes County abstracted and compiled by Grace Gillam Davidson, published in 1933 at Macon, GA, Page 52 [available here]
  60. ↑ https://archive.org/stream/abstractofnorthc01nort#page/358/mode/2up




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George F. Bentley Jr.
Couple of Bentleys...

There is an un-noted Richard Bentley transported to Virginia in the 1600s. There is the case of a Bentley being charged with the murder of Godby in early 1620s? Virginia. There is a Bentley noted in early Maryland and a place called Bentley's Point. Thomas Bentley of c1750 Rowen Co NC is noted as being from MD. There is a Henry Bentley noted in mid? 1600s VA. There may have been a Bentley associated with a Coombs in some sort of possible ferry business across the Rappahannock River in the late 1600s or early 1700s. There is a "Dan of Glouster" VA noted in1704 in Richmond Co VA. There are 3 proved different Daniel Bentleys there in c1721-23. A Daniel Sr with a 1721 will and death, names a son Daniel Jr - both married to Elizabeths and Sr names another minor son James . Another Daniel married to an Anne (noted as a widow there by 1723) and they have 3 proved children baptized there in 1717, '19 and '21. Anne, Samuel and William. Before matrimony in 1731, Anne names her 2 boys plus an apparent older son John. Her last husband James Spicer proves this by his 1767 will.

posted by George F. Bentley Jr.
edited by George F. Bentley Jr.
George F. Bentley Jr.
In reference to Stephen Freeman's Feb 15, 2018 post below: Are you familiar with this webpage discussing the family of Daniel / Samuel/ Jeremiah Bentley of Virginia?

http://listlva.lib.va.us/scripts/wa.exe?A3=ind0212&L=VA-ROOTS&E=quoted-printable&P=66980&B=--&T=text%2Fplain;%20charset=UTF-8&header=1 It is by Janet Hunter from 2002. An early quote from it: "Recent research by many Bentley researchers leads to the well documented conclusion that the sons of Daniel, d. ca 1721-1723,..." I was part of that fantastic team of "Bentley researchers" that grew together starting in the late ' 90s that figured those SE VA Bentley families out. There was a hell of a lot of that "egg on the face" she referred to going around! ...but we hung in and no one was killed - but close. We brainstormed, asked questions made a bunch of errors and today's DNA is proving we did a great job. Janet came through Samuel will of 1784 - Efford's father. I came through the other Samuel "S" born 1719 North Farnham Parish Richmond County - S/o Daniel dc1723 and Ann m2 James Spicer. We were even correct as to which family William will 1791 of Wilkes belonged to. Allan did not have it correct and now DNA has proved that. There is today no proof that he is a "II" - a S/o a William nor that he is the father of a William nor Chloe Bentley Holmes. The "Balaam" name ties him to Dan and Anne's line. Anyone who has any information, proof or questions on these families, Please contact me.

posted by George F. Bentley Jr.
edited by George F. Bentley Jr.
Bentley-2133 John Bentley
Thanks Stephen, when I get more time I will read thru that for sure. I know there are land records stating he was from Maryland, I think his profile reflects that. I'll double check.
posted by John Bentley
Stephen Freeman
Also, on Thomas Bentley of Rowan, NC:

The Thomas Bentley who married Hannah, lived in Rowan County, and died in Lincoln County, NC, has been proved to be from Maryland.

posted by Stephen Freeman
Stephen Freeman
Are you familiar with this webpage discussing the family of Daniel / Samuel/ Jeremiah Bentley of Virginia?

http://listlva.lib.va.us/scripts/wa.exe?A3=ind0212&L=VA-ROOTS&E=quoted-printable&P=66980&B=--&T=text%2Fplain;%20charset=UTF-8&header=1

posted by Stephen Freeman
Bentley-2133 John Bentley
Thanks Richard. This page is not as organized as I'd like, more of a research dump. I'm glad to know someone is looking at it. If there is any Bentley line you or anyone needs help with, please feel free to ask. Thanks John Bentley
posted by John Bentley
Bentley-2112 Richard Bentley
I really admire your work and effort to advance the Bentley genealogy John. Your'e doing a great job to organize much of the work that's out there. I have to greatly admire Allen Bentley also for his work.

Thanks again. Richard Bentley

posted by Richard Bentley

Categories: Disambiguation Studies | Bentley Name Study | United States, Bentley Name Study | Virginia, Bentley Name Study | North Carolina, Bentley Name Study