Colonel
Charles
Cessna
Born about in Shippensburg, Cumberland County, Pennsylvania
Ancestors 
Son of John Cessna
and Agnes Mary (Unknown) Cessna
Brother of
John Cessna [half], Mary (Cessna) Neale [half], William Cessna, Elizabeth (Cessna) Jones, Margaret (Cessna) Hall [half], Evans (Cessna) Cissna, James Cessna, Jonathan Cessna, Theophelus (Cessna) Cisney [half] and Joseph Cessna
Husband of
Elizabeth (Culbertson) Cessna
— married
about 1760 in Cumberland, Pennsylvania
Descendants 
Died about
at about age 67
in Yazoo, Mississippi, United States
Profile last modified
| Created 2 Mar 2015
This page has been accessed 1,304 times.
Revolutionary War Soldier
This profile is part of the Cessna Name Study.
Please note: The parentage of Col. Charles Cessna is questionable and research is ongoing. Consensus can no longer substantiate the existence of Charles (b. 1696) as the third son of Jean-Baptiste (Le Sesne) Le Sisney.
As profile manager of all three Charles Cessna's in question I have taken the liberty to combine the profiles of Col. Charles Cessna b. 1696, his son Col Charles Cessna with Col Charles Cessna son of John Cessna. Will appreciate any discussion as to the appropriateness of this merge.
Thanks to Howard Cessna, Diana Sutor Greenwood, Charles W. "Bill" Cissna, Cheryl Cessna, Krista Cessna and other USA genealogists, for their excellent research.
Contents |
Biography
[1]7.COLONEL CHARLES2 CESSNA (Jean-Baptiste (Le Sesne) Le Sisney) was born 1696 in Ireland, and died Unknown. Can no longer substantiate the existence of Charles (b. 1696)
From Charles W. "Bill" Cissna 10/10/2019
- I have found new information which changed quite a few of my assumptions in "Reconstructed Census" (Reconstructed Census of Cessnas: 1720-1820 America by C. W. Cissna; Publisher: CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform, 2016. ISBN 10: 1532938616 ISBN 13: 9781532938610).....so I pulled it from publication while I make some changes.
- A big part of the change is that I can no longer substantiate the existence of Charles as the third brother. We can be certain that the first child born in Ireland was Stephen Cessna/Sisney who died in Carlisle, PA. His birth would have been around 1793. John Cessna of Shippensburg was probably born around 1798-99 in Ireland. This is figured from the birth of their oldest sons and grandsons.
- It seems logical that there were other children born between '93 & '98. I had assumed Charles, but can no longer support this. I feel certain there was at least one daughter born in Ireland also.
- In the 1730's I found records of Stephen Cessna living on a farm outside of Wilmington, DE (then PA). This is where a lot of the Scotch-Irish landed. He is still living there long after Stephen and Patience Cessna/Sisney move to Lancaster, then Cumberland Counties. I assume that the Stephen Cessna living Wilmington is the Old Frenchman. He is still living there in 1761, but no reports of any Cessna there after. Since he would be in his '90s; I feel safe in assuming that a daughter and son-in-law were helping him with the farm.
- Col. Charles Cessna is most clearly the son of John Cessna of Shippensburg, and grandson of the old Frenchman. The most telling evidence is that when he moved to Greene County, GA; his brother William Cessna (and William's son, John and daughter, Elizabeth) move there with him.
Child of COLONEL CHARLES CESSNA (b. 1696) is: [2] 18. CHARLES3 CESSNA (??son of Charles Cessna b. 1696) was born 02 Mar 1743 in Cumberland County, Pennsylvania, and died 30 Jul 1837 in Bedford County, Pennsylvania.
- Fact: 11 Sep 1783, Charged with forgery and perjury.
- Military service: Bet. 1775 - 1780, American Revolution Lieutenant Colonel
More About CHARLES CESSNA (??son of Charles Cessna b. 1696) and ELIZABETH:
- Marriage: 04 Mar 1770, Cumberland County, Pennsylvania. She was born 31 Jan 1746 in Cumberland County, Pennsylvania, and died 19 Aug 1831 in Bedford County, Pennsylvania.
Children of CHARLES CESSNA (??son of Charles Cessna b. 1696) and ELIZABETH are:
- i. JAMES4 CESSNA, b. 1788, Bedford County, Pennsylvania; d. 1788, Bedford County, Pennsylvania.
- ii. WILLIAM FRANKLIN CESSNA, b. 1790, Bedford County, Pennsylvania; d. 1790, Bedford County, Pennsylvania.
- 54. iii. RACHEL CESSNA, b. 30 Nov 1793, Bedford County, Pennsylvania; d. 06 May 1877, Bedford County, Pennsylvania.
- iv. REBECCA CESSNA, b. 1797, Bedford County, Pennsylvania; d. Unknown; m. JOHN HUSBAND; d. Unknown. :source , unknown.
- v. MARIA CESSNA, b. 1800, Bedford County, Pennsylvania; d. Unknown; m. JAMES JONES; d. Unknown.
- vi. MARY ANN CESSNA, b. 1802, Bedford County, Pennsylvania; d. Unknown.
[3] Notes for COL CHARLES CESSNA (??son of Charles Cessna b. 1696):
- !Charles born about 1722 in Newberry, York County, PA: source,unknown.
- !Charles born 3/3/1744 in Cumberland County and died 7/30/1837
- !Charles born 3-2-1744, died 7-30-1848, was a major in the Bedford County, PA militia, Bedford County.
- He married 3/4/1774 with Elizabeth Culbertson: source, unknown.
- married Elizabeth Culberton: [4]source, 1955 Yearbook of PA Sons of American Revolution Lineage Book, Pittsburgh, PA Society of SAR, 1956.
- Charles paid taxes in Cumberland Valley Township during 1776, 1781 : source, miscellaneous notes of K. Cessna.
[5] 11.COLONEL CHARLES CESSNA (son of John Cessna B. 1692 in Ireland. D. 30 Sep 1796 in Shippensburg, Cumberland, Pennsylvania) was born 02 Mar 1744 in Shippensburg, Cumberland County, Pennsylvania, and died 30 Jul 1837 Notes for COLONEL CHARLES CESSNA (son of John Cessna B. 1692 in Ireland. D. 30 Sep 1796 in Shippensburg, Cumberland, Pennsylvania):
- COL CHARLES3 CESSNA (JOHN2 CESNA, JOHN1 CESSNA) was born March 02, 1744 in Cumberland Co, Pennsylvania, and died July 30, 1837 in Bedford County, Pennsylvania. He married ELIZABETH CULBERTSON March 04, 1774. She was born January 31, 1747 in Cumberland Co, Pennsylvania, and died August 19, 1831 in Bedford County, Pennsylvania.
Notes for COL CHARLES CESSNA:
- !Charles born about 1722 in Newberry, York County, PA: source,unknown.
- !Charles born 3/3/1744 in Cumberland County and died 7/30/1837 in Bedford County.
- He married 3/4/1774 with Elizabeth Culbertson: source, unknown.
- Charles born 3-2-1744, died 7-30-1848, was a major in the Bedford County, PA militia, married Elizabeth Culberton;[6]Source, 1955 Yearbook of PA Sons of American Revolution Lineage Book, Pittsburgh, PA Society of SAR, 1956.
- Charles paid taxes in Cumberland Valley Township during 1776, 1781 : Source, miscellaneous notes of K(rista). Cessna.
- The boundaries of the first Battalion of the Bedford county Militia, Commanded by the following field officers:
- Lieutenant Colonel Charles Cessna
[8]Publication Title: Pennsylvania Archives Series: Colonial Records Volume: XII Chapter: Minutes of the Supreme Executive Council
More About COLONEL CHARLES CESSNA:
- Burial: Aft. 1837, Old Presbyterian Cemetery, Bedford County, Pennsylvania
- Fact: 11 Sep 1783, Charged with forgery and perjury
- Military service: Bet. 1775 - 1780, American Revolution- Lieutenant Colonel.
- Note: 1774, reference to his wife's lineage
- Tax Record: 1772, Cumberland Valley, Bedford, Pennsylvania
- !1. Elizabeth Culbertson was born 1/31/1747 in Cumberland County,PA and died 8/19/1831 in Bedford County, PA: source, unknown.
- Father Alexander Culbertson and Margaret
- i. JOHN4 CESSNA, b. Bet. 1771 - 1785; d. Unknown.
- 34. ii. SAMUEL CESSNA, b. Bet. 1771 - 1785; d. 1808, Oglethorpe, Georgia.
- 35. iii. ROBERT CESSNA, b. Abt. 1775, Pennsylvania; d. 1814, Muhlenberg County, Kentucky.
- 36. iv. ELIZABETH CESSNA, b. Abt. 1773, Pennsylvania; d. Aft. 1816, Muhlenberg County, Kentucky.
- v. CATHERINE CESSNA, b. Bet. 1771 - 1785; d. 1797, Greene County, Georgia.
- 37. vi. SARAH SALLIE CESSNA, b. 1786, Georgia; d. Unknown, Muhlenberg County, Kentucky.
- vii. WILLIAM S CESSNA, b. Bet. 1787 - 1791; d. Unknown.
- viii. JOSEPH CESSNA, b. Bet. 1787 - 1791; d. Unknown.
- 38. ix. CULBERTSON D CESSNA, b. 19 Feb 1792, Muhlenberg County, Kentucky; d. 23 Sep 1853, Yazoo City, Mississippi.
Marriage
[10]Per Bill Cissna: "We do not have the Marriage date for Charles and Elizabeth Culbertson. We have a date that signed a deed of sale together... Howard Cessna and everyone else has been quoting that as their marriage date, but they were married long before they sold the property to Tom Farris."
Military
Colonel Charles Cessna served with 1st Battalion, Bedford County Militia, Pennsylvania Militia during the American Revolution.
Lieutenant Colonel. Charles Cessna, December 10, 1777. Charles Cessna, Apr 3, 1780. [11]The Boundaries of the First Battalion of Bedford County Militia, Commanded by the Following Field Officers 1781: Lieutenant Colonel Charles Cessna [12]"Pennsylvania Archives; Fifth Series; Volume V" p. 49 Muster Rolls and Papers Relating to the Associators and Militia of the County of Bedford:
- (a.) Commissioners of Purchase:
- Charles Cessna, Apr 3, 1780.
Col. Chas. Cessna was one of the first Commissioners of Bedford Co., Pa., was Major of Second Batt. Bedford Co. Militia, Col. George Wood commanding July, 1776 ; Lt. Col. First Bat. Bedford Co., Col. Wm. Parker, Dec, 1777; Lt. Col. commanding First Bedford Batt., 1781 (Pa. Arch.).
Notes:
The Natchez Court Records, 1767-1805[13] Court Records from Natchez, Mississippi. No. 779. Claimant, Charles Cessna, 20 Mch. 1804. Wit: James Milligan 25 sept. 1804. Certif. D-lO issued 4 Sept. 1806. Chas. Cessna claims a preemption 271 acres in Jefferson Co. on waters of Bayou Pierre, improved by sd Charles in Sept. 1802 and settled personally the Oct. following.
- [14]Publication Title: Pennsylvania Archives Series: Colonial Records Volume: XIV Chapter: Minutes of the Supreme Executive Council Pennsylvania (Colony). - 1853
Page: 266
The Council met. Philadelphia, Monday, November 19th, 1784
An order was drawn upon the Treasurer in favor of George Campbell, Esquire, for six pounds fifteen shillings, to be paid to Robert Gailbraith and James Hamilton, being the fees allowed to them for engaging in the cause depending between the Commonwealth and the sureties of Charles Cessna, late of Bedford county, and the expence of a writ of certiorari, according to the Comptroller's report.
Note from Cessna Family Genealogy Forum posted by Cheryl Cessna, Feb 2007
- Since I believe that I am a descendent of Col Charles Cessna, I am aware that he comes across as somewhat of a 'cad' and 'scoundrel'. In [17]House of Cessna, I read where Howard wrote that Charles had been exonerated for his alleged misdeeds but I am not sure about that.
- LR Culbertson, in 1923 wrote in his Culbertson family book on page 138, of this incident with the militia monies and the ongoing investigation of Col Charles.
- Since the case began in 1782 and was continued on the books until 1807 -25 yrs - I would say that Charles was not exonerated but was on the run and disappeared into the night and into to Greene Co, Georgia, then into Muhlenberg Co, Ky and then into Adams/Yazoo Counties, Mississippi where he died sometime around 1810, give or take a year.
- This is based on my own research (and speculation) and of course, I would welcome any new information on him.
- A quit claim made Mar. 4, 1770 and recorded in Dec. 26, 1774, by Charles Cessna and Elizabeth, his wife; Robert Culbertson, both of Lurgan Tp., Cumb. Co., Pa. (no wife given of Robert) quit claim to brother, Samuel Culbertson.
- A quit claim made Dec. 26, 1774, by James Culbertson of Cumb. Tp., Bedford Co. (no wife), Alexander Culbertson (no wife) and John Culbertson (no wife) both of Letterkenny Tp. to brother Samuel Culbertson, 307 acres for £440 in Lurgan and Letterkenny Tps. This is when John attained his majority. Joseph's name does not appear. He would not then have been of age and would have had to have signed by guardian or waited until he became of age in 1775-76. Joseph was killed at Three Rivers, Canada, 1776, the above deed states that this land was patented to Alexander Culbertson, father of the above heirs in 1752. Elizabeth Culbertson married Chas. Cessna, March 4, 1770.
- Col. Charles Cessna was on Bedford Co., Pa. tax lists 1783. Was a member of the Pa. Assembly 1781.
- In 1782 the Pa. Gen. Assembly voted that the Controller-General call on all officers of State to give accounting of public monies in their hands. Among those called on was Col. Chas. Cessna. He did not respond and Sept. 11, 1783, the assembly directed that action be brought against him for forgery and perjury. Action was brought. Old Pa. Supreme Court papers show that his case continued from time to time and kept alive on records as late as 1807. This confirms the conclusion that he left the state to escape prosecution. These crimes, I have been informed, at that time were punishable by death. He was not on 1790 or 1800 Census of Pa. and not on tax or other court records. My belief is that he went to Kentucky under an assumed name (either William Cessna or some other name). It is my belief he was the father of Robert Cessna of Muhlenburg County. Ky. There was a record collected by one claiming to be his descendant (Mr. Martin, Supt. of Pullman Car Company on Pa. R. R.) but his record undoubtedly is wrong as he gives Col. Charles Cessna and wife Elizabeth's first born 1788 and other children up to 1802 born in Bedford County. He undoubtedly is giving the children of Charles Cessna of Bedford Co. Pa., a son of Major John Cessna, Jr., of Bedford Co., Pa. (a brother of Col. Charles) and mentioned in Major John Cessna's will 1794. This Charles would have come of age about 1788. While it is possible that Wm. Cessna of Muhlensberg Co., Ky., was Col. Chas Cessna in disguise, yet he may have been Wm. Cessna of Franklin Co., Pa., son of John Cessna, Sr., of Shippensburg. Can find no court record of either one in Ky.
- Col. Chas. Cessna and wife not on 1790 Census of Penna. Probably went to Ky.
- The Census of 1830 for Muhlenburg Co., Ky., gives Elizabeth Cessna (widow of Robert). This is the only Cessna found. She was a daughter of Capt. John Culbertson of Muhlenburg Co., Ky. A Wm. Cessna died at Cessna, Ills., many years ago who may have been Wm. Cessna, early settler of Muhlenburg Co., Ky. "
- Charles Cessna moved to Natchez, Mississippi right after William or together and he also took out a land deed in Muhlenberg Co for an Aaron Neel. Again, I suspected that Neel was a son in law of Charles. Interestingly, per a Neel researcher, Aaron Neel named his children Elizabeth Cessna Neel, Robert Cessna Neel and I believe the 3rd was Charles Cessna Neel so there is no doubt that Neel was the son in law. Charles and William,along with Robinette and Neel, were all living in Greene Co, Georgia prior to moving in 1799 to Kentucky. When they left for Mississippi, they left behind in Muhlenberg Co, my gr gr gr grandfather, Robert Cessna and James Milligan, who was married to an Elizabeth Cessna in Greene Co, Georgia in 1788. Actually there are deed records in Adams Co,Mississippi, showing James Milligan living near Charles but in around 1807, he shows back up in Muhlenberg Co. It is believed that Culbertson Cessna was the son of Charles Cessna and his wife Elizabeth Culbertson.
- On page 5 of Howard’s first work we read the following: Among the heroes of the Duke de Schomburg at the battle of Boyne (1690) was a young Huguenot soldier, Jean De Cessna who remained in Ireland after the forces of William, Prince of Orange, were withdrawn. In 1718 he came to Pennsylvania and located in Lancaster County. Later he removed to York County where he died in 1751. Several of his sons located in Shippensburg as early as 1751 and then later removed to Bedford County where the family became prominent. John De Cessna (1718-1800) of Bedford County, was one of the leading men of the Province. He was a member of the Provincial Assembly and Constitutional Convention of 1775 and a colonel in the Revolutionary War. His brother Charles De Cessna, was likewise a colonel in the War of Independence . The late Honorable John Cessna, State Senator was a great grandson of Colonel John De Cessna. Another son of the immigrant was Stephen De Cessna, who prior to 1750 was a resident of Cumberland County.
- First, Charles Cessna (who was probably living with him in New Castle) has enough money to move to Cumberland Valley Township below Bedford and purchase farms for himself and his sons Charles, John and Evans.
TIMELINE OF Col. Charles Cessna
1740
- 2 March 1744, Charles is born to John II and Sara Rose Cessna in Cumberland County (Book: DAR Patriot Index pub 1966), 31 Jan 1747, Elizabeth Culbertson wife of Charles Cessna is born in Cumberland County. This area would still be part of Lancaster County (Over the Susquehanna) at this time period.
1750
- 27 January 1750 Cumberland County is formed by the State. Previously, this land had been part of Lancaster County (Over the Susquehanna).
- 1750 People begin to settle in area around Raystown, which will become Bedford, PA.
- 18 July 1757, Charles’ father and two younger brothers are kidnapped by Indians while harvesting on the family farm. John escapes. But the boys, Jonathan and Joseph, are not among the captives traded at the end of the war in 1761. The older boys; John (31), Charles (13) and William (15) were with the militia guarding other fields.
- May 1758, Charles’ brother John hired out as a teamster with the army of General Forbes. This would place responsibility for the family on Charles (14) and William (16) until their father or brother returned.
1760
Early Land Applications:
- 3 June 1763 Charles Cessna receives 100 acres in Cumberland County. Pays taxes on same land in Letterkenny twp.
- 17 of May of 1763, at the age of 19, Charles Cessna partnered with Thomas Jones to buy a farm along Evitts Creek in Cumberland Valley township that already has some improvements on it. The farm was just 2 miles from "the block houses", two small stone fortresses built on either side of the creek to provide covering fire for each other. It was also next to a farm purchased by his brother Evans Cessna and near farms purchased by brothers John, Stephen and Jonathan. Jones is Charles’ Brother-in-law.
- 1763 February. John Cesna was the original purchaser of Lots #22 and #138 from Edward Shippen in Shippensburg(deeds being issued on land occupied in the 1750’s under quit rent agreements.) Lot #22 was then owned by John Cesna who kept a store there which he removed to a one story stone house on lot #17, which was destroyed by fire in 1770.
- 1764 John Sisner, East Pennsborough twp, 100 acres warranted: John Cisney, Hopewell twp, 1 lot: John Cisney, Letterkenny twp, 100 acres warranted. Is this three different Johns or three different purchases?
- 4 Mar 1766, Samuel Finley bought 200 a from John Cesna Jr, adjoining land of Charles Cessna, the improvements of William Kirkpatrick, & land of Wm Trent, known by the names of The Block Houses on both sides of Evitts Creek in Cumberland Co.
- 2 August 1766, Daniel Duncan, 100 acres near John Casnay Jr and Charles Casney in Cumberland Valley.
- 1767, Charles Sisney, pays tax in Bedford County (paying tax means he has been living there a while) 1768, 1769, 1770 Charles Cesney pays tax in Cumberland twp
- 1767 Land owners for Bedford County: John Sisney, Jr, Adam Sisney, John Sisney, Sr., Charles Sisney
- 2 Aug 1768, Daniel Duncan bought 100 acres of land in Cumberland Valley Twp, near land owned by John Cessna, Jr and Charles Cessna.
- 30 Aug 1768, James Culbertson, 200 acres, next to Charles Cessna.
1770
- 4 mar 1770, Charles Cessna and Elizabeth Culbertson, dau of Capt Alexander Culbertson and Mary Duncan, signs as his wife. This means they were married between 1763 and 1768. Record states “Elizabeth Cessna, et all”, sold land in Lurgan Twp to her brother Samuel Culbertson, so this might be settling Father’s estate.
- 27 Oct 1770, Charles Cessna is witness to sale of Cumberland Valley twp land by Adam McCartney to Bernard Dougherty.
- Jan 1771, King vs. John Casebold. He is bound for 200 lbs, Wm Fredigut for 100 lbs and Christopher Miller for 100 lbs, to keep the peace for 6 mos, particularly towards John Cessna.
- March 9, 1771, Bedford County was created from part of Cumberland County
- 1771-76, John and Charles Cessna are listed as jurors in Jan courts for each of these years.
- 16 April 1771, Charles Cessna served on Grand Jury of Bedford County at 1st meeting of Qtr Sessions.
- 1772, Charles Cessna pays tax in Cumberland Valley twp
- 1 Oct 1772, Charles Cessna is named Commissioner for Qtr Sessions of Bedford County
- 14 July 1772, among jurors in Bedford Co is Charles Cissnay Jr. (Where does Junior come from?)
- Apr 1773, Evan Cessna appointed Constable in Bedford Co, “sworn in” July 1773
- 17 May 1773; Thos Jones and Charles Cessna apply for 300 acres including improvements adjacent to Evan Cessna and Robt Hall on Branch of Evitts creek, about two miles from the block houses.
- 1 Oct 1773, Charles Cessna was elected commissioner of Bedford County. Charles would be 29 years old.
- 24 Dec 1774, Charles Cessna was elected commissioner of Bedford County.
- Jan 1775, Court Sessions: King Vs Edward Higgins, he is bound for 100 lbs, Thomas Jones and John Cessna bound for 50lbs to keep peace for 1 yr with Daniel Stoy. This doesn’t ring true for Maj. John Cessna.
- May 1775, Revolutionary War starts in Boston.
- 30 June 1775, A Committee of Safety formed of PA counties. Bedford was asked to furnish immediately 100 firelocks With Bayonets, etc. “For the use of such officers and soldiers as shall be drafted from time to time.” Barnard Dougherty was chosen as a member to represent Bedford County, but did not take his seat until the middle of Sept. Ben Franklin was chosen president. William Garrett clerk, Michael Hillegass Treasurer. Feb 9, 1776 Col David Espy, clerk for county commissioners, wrote to Committee of Safety:
- “We have but one Gunsmith in the County, who has engaged to make twenty-five Firelocks, and has been employed for these three or four months past, but has not got any of them completed; yet we are in hopes he will soon have the twenty-five finished. He has been very industrious to procure Assistants or Journeymen, in order to undertake the whole, but cannot obtain any; and we also have endeavored to employ others in the adjacent Counties, but are informed they are already engaged. We have provided Leather, and have employed a saddler to make cartridge boxes, agreeable to the pattern sent us and will take every necessary step in our power in order to have the whole completed.”
- 1775, Robert Cessna, son of Charles Cessna and Elizabeth Culbertson is born in Bedford County, PA
- 4 July 1776, The war with England now becomes a war for Independence.
- 11 July 1776, Charles and wife Elizabeth of Cumberland Valley, sell to Thos Faris of same place, price of 200 £s, 235 ½ A. in CV Bordered by Thos Jones and Cessna’s other land.
- July 1776, Charles Cessna is listed as Major in 2nd Battalion of Bedford County, Militia: Col George Woods, commanding.
- 18 Sep 1776, John Cessna is Bedford County Rep to State Constitution Convention, signed PA Constitution
- 9 Jan 1777, Captain Hendershot marched a company of militia from Bedford to Valley Forge with supplies. Arrived on Washington’s Birthday. Maj. John Cessna is among the officers and men who volunteered to march with the company. Only the militia company on duty for that month was obligated to go. Col. Charles Cessna was at that time in PA Congress.
- On Feb 13, 1777, Mr. Bickham directed to pay Maj Coomb 75 lb 10.6 for substance of himself, Maj Cisna,, a capt & 23 men of Col Woods Battalion, Bedford County. They were discharged and sent home 10 March 1777.
- 1777, Charles Cessna is listed as Lt. Col in 1st Battalion of Bedford County, Militia 13 June 1777, Thomas Urie is elected Sheriff. John and Charles Cessna post his surety.
- 30 Oct 1777, in general election, John Cessna elected Sheriff and Charles Cessna elected state rep at PA Assembly
- 30 Oct 1777, Supreme Council met in Lancaster, appointed these officers for Bedford County: Councelor, Thomas Urie, Representative, Charles Cisna: Sheriffs, John Cessna and Francis Cluggage. Procedure was for elections to be held in county and results sent to the Supreme Council who had the authority to appoint officers. Col. John Piper, a close friend and neighbor of John and Charles Cessna was a member of the Supreme Council.
- 10 Dec 1777, 1st Battalion, Bedford County militia: Col. William Parker, Lt. Col. Charles Cessna, Maj Robert Culbertson
- Jan 1778 court, Jonathan Cessna and Stephen Cessna indicted for being accessories for the escape of Richard Richardson. Not guilty returned by Grand Jury. Their father John is the Sheriff.
- 1778, Tax list of CV twp in Bedford county show Charles Cessna as owning 290 acr (50 cleared) 1 negro age 20, 1 horse, 2 mares, 4 horned cattle and 6 sheep
- Joseph Cessna, 300 A, 20 cleared
- Evan Cessna, 200 A (15 improved & 10 cleared) 1 horse, 1 mare, 3 horned ::cattle, 4 sheep
- John Cessna, 300 A (20 cleared).
- May 16, 1778 Robert Galbraith to Pres Wharton…..”May it please your exellency, The courts at Bedford, Carlisle and York are held with great regularity and propriety, and more business done in the sessions in the week, than used to be done under the old constitution. It is with pleasure that I inform you that a Reconciliation is effected in Bedford county between the inhabitants, who for some time past were opposed to each other with regards to the constitution and political sentiments… ….I am uneasy concerning Cumberland Valley twp. Colonel Charles Cessna and Thomas Coulter are two of the fittest men in the township for that commission, and yet these two men have not been on good terms these several years, and I imagine have had separate elections for that purpose. I should be glad the council would reconcile matters that way. Mr. Coulter was in the commission before and made a good magistrate. The council may receive information from Mr. Cessna, as I expect he is now in Assembly.
1779
- 1779, Charles Cessna pays tax on 297 acres 3 horses, 6 cattle, 1 slave; in CV twp
- 1779, Supply rates taxes for Hopewell twp of Cumberland County we find:
- John Sisney, 150 ac, 4 horses, 3 cat, 2 negroes.
- Right under him is Charles Sisney, no acres, no horses, no cattle, no negroes, no tax
- A few doors down is Robert Culbertson 500 acres, 7 horses, 7 cattle, 2 negroes
- And in the same tax but in Bedford County we find Charles Cesna, in Cumberland Valley twp with 297 acres, 8 horses, 2 cattle, 5 sheep, no negroes
- 1779, William Cesna, Cumberland County, Letterkenny twp, 170 a, 2 horse, 2 cat, 0 negros
- 1781, William Cesney, Cumberland Co, Letterkenny twp, 0 a, 2 horse, 2 cat, 0 negroes
- (note: in 1781 and 1782 William’s father, John pays taxes on this land in Letterkenny, but William pays tax on the 2 horses and 2 cattle. ????) This seems to be the same situation as Charles above: John Pays taxes on land, Charles is living on the land but has no property of his own.
1780
- 3 April 1780, Charles Cessna appointed commissioner for Bedford County
- 5 April 1780, Charles Cessna is appointed purchasing commissioner of Bedford County, posts 500 £s bond
- 7 April 1780, Charles is ordered to buy 25 tons of hay, 2000 bushels of corn, 4000 bushels of oats
- 17 Nov 1780, John is elected Sheriff with Charles posting surety.
- July 1780, Captain Phillips Company of Lt. Col. Charles Cessna’ command was captured while on patrol. Half of the company were massacred and half carried off to “sell” to the British at Ft. Detroit.
- 1781, Charles Cessna is again listed as Lt. Col in 1st Battalion of Bedford County, Militia
- 30 June 1781, Letter from Cap. Charles Cesna to Col James Morgan, reports Indian depravations every week and that he is unable to buy supplies for the militia because the money is worthless. Each state had started printing their own money, but had no funds to back it up. Most farmers would rather sell to the British for coin than the worthless script of Pennsylvania or US. There are two places in the PA Archives where the same letter is recorded.
- Charles Cessna, brother of Maj. John Cessna, was made a Major in 1776 by act of continental Congress, and a Lt. Colonel in 1777. Captain ranks were assigned on local levels of the militia, usually by being elected as such by your company. This cannot be Colonel Charles Cessna, being temporarily demoted to Captain after serving four years as a Colonel. So who is this, and why is he doing the purchasing of supplies instead of Colonel Charles? It is possible that this is Charles Cessna, Jr. (son of Col. Charles Cessna) born circa 1763.
- 19 October 1781, Battle of Yorktown, last major battle of Revolution. However, the Indian raids continued on the Western Counties of PA.
- 30 Nov 1781, County Elections select John Cessna as Sheriff and Charles Cessna as State Rep.
- Monday Nov 26, 1781, Pennsylvania Supreme Council, “On consideration of proposal by Bernard Doughtery and Charles Cessna, For supplying the ranging companies and militia men of Bedford County for the defense of the frontiers, Ordered: that twelve pence per ration be allowed from the First day of March next, as long as said troops shall keep the field. The ration consists of one pound of bread, one pound of beef or ¾ pound of pork, one gill of whiskey per day, and one quart of salt and two quarts of vinegar per hundred rations, eight pounds of soap and 3 pounds of candles for every 700 rations. The rations to be delivered at such places as the said troops may from time to time be stationed within the county of Bedford, and that 75 pounds specie be advanced to the contractors.” This order mean they were to be given coins rather than currency.
- Nov 30, 1781 Supreme Council minutes, An order was drawn on the Treasurer in favor of Bernard Dougherty and Charles Cessna, esquires, for the sum of seventy-five pounds specie, for the purpose of furnishing the Ranging Companies and militia that may be employed in the county of Bedford, agreeable to contract entered into on twenty-sixth instant, for which the said contractors are to account. Same minutes report that elections returns of Bedford County indicate that Bernard Dougherty and Charles Cessna are representatives and that John Cessna is Sheriff.
- Monday April 15, 1782 “Pennsylvania Commission, …., Charles Cessna, Esqr, late commissioner of Purchases of Bedford County, having represented that there remains in his hands a quantity of flour and forage purchased according to act of the Assembly passed the twenty third day of March 1780, entitled “An Act for procuring of supplies and provisions and other necessities for use of the army, which articles are in danger of great waste. On consideration it is ordered that said Charles Cessna be directed to sell the aforesaid as soon as may be, and pay the money arising there from into the hands of the Treasurer of this State.”
- April 1782, House of Commons in London votes to end the war in America
- June 5, 1782, Supreme Council orders in favor of Charles Cessna, Esquire, for the sum of 100 pounds, State Money for the 7th April 1781, being extra allowance for his services as Commissioner of Purchases in Bedford County. Delivered to Mssrs Cessna and Doughtery for the supply of Rangers and the militia on actual services of the frontier of Bedford County.
- June 18, 1782 Minutes of Supreme Council, an order was drawn on the Treasurer to pay Daniel Rhoads, Esquire, the sum of 100 pounds specie, to be by him paid to Bernard Dougherty and Charles Cessna, esquires of Bedford County, in part of their contract for supplying the company of Rangers and Militia stationed in the said county, for which they are to account.
- Monday Oct 11, 1782 Minutes of Supreme council, …..a return of Justices for Colerain Twp in Bedford county indicate that John Cessna and Abraham Miley were duly elected Justices for said township; whereupon it is ordered, that John Cessna, Esquire, be appointed Justice of the Peace for the said county of Bedford, and that he be commissioned accordingly. In same minutes: Charles Cessna is appointed representative and Abraham Miley is appointed Sheriff.
- 21 Oct 1782, County Elections are held and John Cessna is elected Justice of Peace and Charles Cessna to be State Rep. In PA Archives it records that George Woods had the most votes for Representative and Charles Cessna the second highest.
- It was procedure for the top two vote getters to be referred to the Supreme Council. The Supreme Council had the option of appointing either one, but most always picked the top one. In this instance, they chose Charles Cessna (second). NOTE: John Piper, A neighbor and boyhood friend of John and Charles Cessna was a member of the Supreme Council. The other candidate, George Woods had been Charles Cessna’s commander in the Militia at start of the war, but had been replaced.
- Thurs Nov 7, 1782. Minutes of Supreme council, Charles Cessna is listed as present at the Council Meeting. Not sure if he Was a member or a guest.
- Nov 13, 1782, Minutes of Supreme Council. 5000 £ allowed for defense of the frontier….in favor of Charles Cessna,Esq, for two hundred eighty three pounds specie To be applied in paying Lt Johnson’s company of Rangers in Bedford County for two month’s pay to be paid out of the 5000 pounds, for which Charles Cessna is to give an account.
- Nov 15, 1782 Minutes of Supreme council, , ordered…..In favor of Charles Cessna, for paying two month’s pay to Bedford County company of Rangers, said Cessna to account………283 £..
- 1782, Charles Cessna pays tax on 350 acres, 4 horses, 5 cattle, 4 sheep, 1 slave; in CV twp
- 1783, Charles Cessna pays tax in CV twp 3/11/3 for state tax….0/14/3 county tax. (£/shill/pence)
- 11 Sept 1783, In Council: resolved that the Att General be directed to institute actions against Charles Cessna, of Bedford county, late member of the House for forgery and perjury.
CHARLES CESSNA SCANDAL IN CONGRESS
- Monday, Feb 17th, 1783 Minutes of Supreme Executive Council of Pennsylvania, “A letter from George Woods, Esq, of this day, was read, requesting that a petition and sundry depositions accompanying the same, respecting the conduct of Charles Cessna, Esquire, late Commissioner of Purchases for Bedford County, laid before the council in June 1782, may be transmitted to the Speaker of the Honorable House of the Assembly; thereupon…..ordered that Colonel Woods be informed that the petition depositions aforesaid shall be delivered to the House, if requested so to be.
- George Woods (who had received the most votes for Representative but been passed over by the Supreme Council in order to keep Cessna in the position another year) and Thomas Coulter (who had been chief election judge for the October 1782 election) are evidently standing outside the hall where the Supreme Council is meeting. They are stating that a petition and depositions bring charges against Charles Cessna is laying on their table, and demanding that it be sent to the Speaker of the House of Assembly. John Dickenson, chairman of the Supreme Council says he won’t send it unless the Speaker of the House specifically asks for it.
- February 20th, 1783. Woods and Coulter have gone across town to where the Assembly is meeting and lobbied to have the Speaker call for the petition which the Supreme Council is “sitting on”. The Speaker asks for it.
- Friday, Feb 21th, 1783. Minutes of Supreme Executive Council of Pennsylvania, , John Dickenson, President, A resolution of the Assembly on 20th instant relating to conduct of Charles Cessna, Esq, late Commissioner of Purchases for Bedford County was read and therefore acted upon: Ordered, that the petition and depositions laid before the Council in June 1782, now be transmitted to the Speaker of the General Assembly, to be laid before the house. Note: this says the petition arrived at the Supreme Council in June 1782, before the October Elections.
- The Assembly voted to expel Charles Cessna from his seat and sent a note to the Supreme Council requesting That charges be investigated.
- Thursday, Sept 11, 1783 Supreme Council: Resolved that the Attorney General institute actions against Charles Cessna, f Bedford County, late member of the house, for forgery and perjury. John Dickenson is President of Supreme Council. The investigation indicated that charges should be filed and a trial held.
- 1 June 1784, PA Council of Censors met to discuss case of Charles Cessna, who was expelled from his seat in the Assembly.
- 29 Mar 1786, Abstracts from Carlisle Gazette: “Sale of Plantation and late property of Charles Ceffna esq, in Cumberland Valley, on Great Road from Bedford to Cumberland. 300 acres: apply to Thomas Coulter, esq near premises; George Funk in Bedford, or Thos Smith, James Hamilton or Thos Duncan in Carlisle.
- In a later entry found in the PA Archives, James Hamilton applies to the Supreme Council for payment of services he rendered in selling off the property of Charles Cessna on the government’s behalf.
- Early in 1784, Pennsylvania conducted a count of “Persons and Property”. In Cumberland Valley Township of Bedford County, Charles Cessna is listed as owning 300 acres, having 10 white people and 1 slave living in his house.
- 1784. Charles Cissna pays tax on 300 acres, 1 horse, 10 cattle, 1 sheep, 0 slaves; in CV twp. Why different? Does Charles not own the slave staying in his house?
GEORGIA
- 19 Aug 1783, Charles Cessna is granted 670 acres (same reference as 11 Aug 1787), land on Richland Creek in Greene County, GA. This is a military bonus grant made by Georgia to Officers and Veterans of the Revolution. Size of grant indicates that he was at least a Colonel in the War.
- Oct 22, 1783, first of GA headrights grants is made. Land given to veterans. Only requirement was a letter from their Commanding officer that they had served. There was widespread fraud in Washington and Franklin counties.
- 1786, William Franklin son of Charles and Elizabeth Cessna is born in Cumberland valley PA
- It appears that Charles and Elizabeth Cessna moved their family to Greene County, GA; and were accompanied his nephew, John and son, Samuel. Both of these boys take headright grants as veterans of the Revolution which means they had to be born in the early 1760’s.
- 1785, William Chesney, Cumberland County, Milford twp, 1 horse only
- 1786, spring: Polly Cessna, wife of Samuel, is attacked and scalped by Indians at her cabin on the West side of the Oconee River. She ran to Cow Ford to warn the other settlers. She survived the attack.
- 1786, John Cessna receives land grant in Washington County, GA (land was granted first to veterans of Rev War)
- 1787, Thomas Cribbs of Greene County, GA sells to Charles Cessna of Greene County, for 35 £s Sterling, 300 acres on waters of Big Beaverdam. (land adjoined by Cessna, Reeves, Stewart & Thompson)
- 10 Aug 1787, John Cesna of Greene County sells to John Lister of Rowan Co, NC for 25 £s, 300 acres of Big Beaverdam Adjoined by Robert Christmas.
- 11 Aug 1787, Thomas Cribbs of Greene County, GA sold to Charles Cessna for 35£, 300 acres on waters of Big Beaver Dam adjourning land owned by Cessna, Reeves, Stewart and Thompson.
- 1788, Charles Cessna is elected Justice of the Peace in Green; County, GA
- 1788, Charles Cessna’s son James is born in Cumberland Valley
- 19 Aug 1788, James Milligan and Elizabeth Cessna are married in Greene County, GA
- 19 Aug 1788, Head rights granted to early county residents of Greene County, Charles Cessna 670 acres on Richland Cr.
- 1789, Charles Cessna’s son James dies in Bedford County.
- 10 Mar 1789: Lost letters at PO: M. Meals to Merriwether in file of Jn. Cessina
- 1789, Georgia Tax Digest: Greene County/Melton twp Charles Cesna, John Cesna, Samuel Cessna
- 1 Aug 1789 (?) Wm Wilson of Green County sells to Robert Maison of same county for 65 £s, 270 acr on Oakonee River; Part of 670 acres granted to Charles Cessna on 19 Aug 1788. Witnessed by John and Robert Cessna.
- 31 Dec 1789, John Rice of Green County sells to Moses Shelby for 60 £s, 453 acres on Big Beaverdam of Richland Creek, adjoining John Cessna.
1790
- 1 January 1790, John Cessna is made Sheriff of Greene County, GA. $5,000 surety is posted for his assuming the job. Surety is posted by William Melton, Moses Shelby and Thomas Baldwin. Oath taken before H. Osburn. References show that John is Sheriff from then through 10 August 1798.
- 27 May 1790, Charles Cessna sells to Wm Wilson for 5 £s an option to purchase 670 acres on waters of Richland cr (Same listing as dated 2 Sept 1795) (acknowledged by Charles, 2 Sep 1795). Witnessed by John Cessna Sr, John Cessna Jr. and Samuel Cessna. How is there a John Cessna Sr and Jr.???? This would mean a John Cessna bn ca1770 and another born ca 1750.
- 1790, William and wife Margaret sell 100 acres to A. Winger for 650 pounds sterling. At the same time they record a deed where his father grants him the land which he purchased Feb 26, 1755. William buys from his father for 100 lbs and sells the land in the same year. Land is adjoining land of Samuel Culbertson and Robert Gabney. Gabney purchased this land Oct 16, 1749. Neighbors are John Kirkpatrick, widow Donaldson, Samuel Culbertson and John Barnhill. Note: this is most possibly William’s second marriage and they seem to move to GA immediately after selling.
- 1790 Almost immediately, William and his family join Col Charles in Greene County, GA. Son John will become Sheriff of the County. William’s daughter, Elizabeth Cessna will marry John Robinette there in Greene County.
- 16 Nov 1791, Robert Christmas of Wilkes County sells to Sylvanus Walker of Greene…Jno Cessna witness
- 11 Jan 1790, Bond posted for John Cessna, Sheriff elect of Greene County, for $5,000. Surities were posted by William Melton, Moses Shelby & Thomas Baldwin. Oath taken before H. Osborn. (listed as sheriff in 1791, 1792, 1793, 1794, 1798) 18 Jan 1790 John Cessna of Green County sells to David Culbertson of Wilkes County for 80 £s, 400 acre on Beaverdam, part of 500 acres granted to John Cessna, 24 May 1786, bounded by John Dunn and Lester’s line. Witness by Moses Shelby, John McMichael & William Patrick.
- 5 March 1792, Charles Cessna is listed as JP in Greene County, GA (again in 1793, 1794, 1795, 1796, 1798,)
- 3 Dec 1792, Samuel Cessna witness for Power of Attny given for Edward Peters.
- 13 July 1792, John Cessna files Notice that the Jail he is responsible for cannot safely keep prisoners from escaping, and he has no ability to repair it.
- 22 Mar 1793, Samuel Cessna of Greene County, trades a negro woman named Agg and her daughter, Hannah, for a negro boy, Isaac. Female negros were estate of Robert Baker, left to Polly Baker, traded to Thomas Baldwin. Witness: James Taylor. In same entry, March 21st, 1793, Thomas Baldwin was released as guardian of Polly Baker, now Polly Cessna. Samuel Cessna and Polly Baker evidently marry about this time. They have three children when he died in 1797.
- 17 Aug 1793, James Steward sells to John Armor, both of Greene County 400 acr for 50 £ds, adjoining Thompson and Cessna on Oconee River.
- 24 Oct 1793, William and Charles are given 5 shillings in their father’s will. Elizabeth, daughter of William is given a piece of land adjoining Robert Gabney’s and Samuel Culbertson’s property, purchased from Nathaniel Wilson. William’s brother James shall have authority if needed to sell this land and put the money at interest for Elizabeth until she reach the age of 21. If she shall die without issue before she reaches 21, the land shall go to her brother John.
- 30 Nov 1793, dau Rachel is born in Bedford County, PA
- 1793, Book: Historical Collections of Ga (1854) p 477 among earliest settlers of Greene County was Charles Cessna. p 479 [21] “this County suffered much from the Indians. Besides burning Greensborough, the savages committed many other acts of violence” “In September of 1793 a young lady by the name of Catherine Cessna was cruelly murdered by the demons.”
- 28 Aug 1794, William Cessna of Greene County sells to Jno Michel, for 20 pnds, 62 acres on water of Oconee River. Margaret Cessna signs to relinquish widow’s rights.
- 21 June 1794, Charles Cessna, Warrants 400 a, Bedford County, June 21, 1794 as does John Cessna Sr., John Cessna Jr., Jonathan Cessna, Jonathan Cessna Jr., William Cessna, Rachael Cessna, Stephen Cessna and Rebecca Cessna. If these were all children of Maj. John Cessna receiving their inheritance early, his son Charles Cessna would have been 5 years old. This does not seem likely; but Charles born to Maj. John in 1789 is the only Charles we have after Col Charles. And Col. Charles Cessna is in Georgia in 1794. Who is this Charles?
- 2 Sept 1795, Charles Cessna sells to Wm Wilson for 5 £s sterling, option to purchase 670 acres on waters of Richland Creek of Oconee River. Witness by John Cessna, Sr, John Cessna, Jr and Samuel Cessna.
- 6 November 1795, William Cessna of Greene County sells to James Morgan of same county for 20 £s, 280 acrs on waters of Oconee River, part of a tract where William Cessna now lives , and part of a 670 Acres granted to Charles Cessna on 19 Aug 1788. Why does William sell this land so cheap????? Compare with land John sells below.
- 17 Nov 1796, Dionysinses Oliver of Edgefield, SC sells to John Cessna of Greene County, for 100 £s, land in Greene county, formerly in Washington County.
- 8 Mar 1797, John Cessna of Greene County sells to Fields Kennedy of same county for 300 £s, 179 acres on Richland Creek. Recorded at same time as 17 Nov 1796 transaction.
- 7 May 1797, Samuel Cessna (son of Charles) dies in Greenville, GA. Leaves a wife, Polly, and three children: Elizabeth Cessna, Robert Cessna, Samuel Cessna.
- 1797, daughter Rebecca is born in Bedford County, PA
- 1797 Head rights granted to early Greene County Residents, Samuel Sessney 220 acres on Richland Creek. Headright grants means that Samuel had papers proving he had served in military during the Rev. War. Had to be signed by a commanding officer.
- 1797, Georgia Tax Digest: Green County/Melton Twp, Charles Cessna
- 3 June 1797, Mary Cessna and John Cessna apply for administration on estate of Samuel Cessna, dec’d
- 1798, Charles Cessna is listed as JP in Greene County, GA
- 23 Jan 1799-11 Mar 1799, Charles Cessna serves as administrator of estate of John Dunn in Greene County, GA. Nancy Dunn is applicant.
Charles Cessna’s Scandal in Georgia
- 1799 Some charges were brought against Judge Charles Cessna about misconduct during a case. The other members of the Grand Jury were quick to defend Charles Cessna’s honesty. They conducted an investigation and made public statements in his defense. When the criticism of the injured parties became too vocal, the Grand Jury of Greene County made an unprecedented move. They published an open letter defending Charles and the jury’s actions in the Augusta, Georgia newspaper.
- Augusta, GA 1799: In response to allegations of improprieties at a recent Grand Jury Inquest in Greene County; the members of that Grand Jury are publishing the following open letter:
- “We do certify that we presided as members of the last grand jury for the county aforesaid; and beg leave to submit our reasons to the public for not signing the presentments. The implications against E. Park and others therein mentioned, we conceive to be wrong. It appeared that James Bilbo, (one of the informers) in the first place made oath before Wm. Fitzpatric, Esq, that the report against said Park, respecting land grants etc, was false and erroneous; and he believed were only raised to injure said Park’s reputation. The said Bilbo, it also appears, was sworn afterwards by Davis Gresham, Esq, quite to the contrary of what he had sworn before; and then after that declared to the court that he knew nothing about the business and begged for mercy—that he perjured himself.
- It appeared that William Carrick had sworn before Gresham, Esq. about bank bills, which he said major Collier had told him about---it also appeared that the said Carrick had made oath before Charles Cessna that he was forced and seduced to swear what he did before Davis Gresham, Esq. and after making his counter-affidavit, run away for fear of the consequences. If Mr. Cessna did do wrong, it does not appear so; from the strictest enquire, we conceive his conduct therefore ought not to be implicated in the presentment.
- The information of Mr. Hays and Mr. Jenkins, on the occasion, was also nothing more than hear-say, (and that from trifling authority) we therefore conceive they ought not to carry any importation. We do further certify that there was no evidence on the occasion, nor no circumstances but one; and that was Mr. Hay’s testimony; which in fact was nothing more than hear-say; and the whole of the business appeared to us; to be nothing more than a party quarrel or dispute between the Greshams and Parks — and that we conceive the grand jury ought not to have had anything to do with it. We conceive, and we are supported by the judge’s charge, in saying, the reputation of no person ought to be held up to public view, from ambition or design -- sad when presentments are made, unsupported by truth -- they lose their force. In discharge of the duties we owe to God and man, and in discharge of our oaths, as grand jurors, to present all things in its true light, that are given in charge…we do therefore declare to the world, that we conceive the reputation of E. Park, and others, implicated in the presentments, ought not thereby to be injured, in the community. We desire that this may be published with the presentments: William Greer, foreman; Ezi Rankin, William George, Charles Cessna”
KENTUCKY
- 1796, Robert Cessna arrived in Logan Co., KY, sometime in 1796, as he took his first land warrant in November, 1796, along with his father-in-law, Capt. John Culbertson. Robert was married to Elizabeth Culbertson sometime in 1795 or 1796, and this is based on the birthdate of their first child, Elizabeth Hester Cessna, date of birth as November 5, 1796,
- 10-12-1796 Book: Kentucky Land Grants. Grants south of Green River. This land was given only to soldiers of French and Indian War and Revolutionary soldiers until 1797. After that it was available for homestead, for men over 21 with a family. Must live on land for one year before you can file. Robert Cisna 200 acres surveyed 10-12-1803 on Nelson Creek in Muh co.
- Robert Cisna 200 acres in Logan County,
- Note: Robert Cessna and John Culbertson have moved to Muhlenberg County from Pennsylvania. They arrive at least four years before William and Charles Cessna arrive from Georgia; and before Stephen Sisney arrives from North Carolina.
- 1799, Muhlenberg County tax: Robert Cessna
- 23 July 1799, William Cisna is member of first grand Jury in Muhlenberg co.
- 28 May 1799, at house of John Dennis, according to act of Assemby, Robert Cisna is made JP
- 25 June 1799, Robt Cisna takes oath as JP: John Culbertson takes oath as Coroner
- 25 June 1799, Robert Cisna’s stockmark is swallowfork in R ear and hole in left ear
- 25 june 1799, William Cisna’s stock mark is crop off and under bit in R ear & slit in left ear
- 25 June 1799: William Cisna, Warren & Henry Davis ordered to mark way for road from John Culbertson’s ford on Green River To seat of Justice.
- 24 Sept 1799, Wm Campbell, John Bradly, Wm Cisna and Lewis Kinchaloe ordered to layout road from Lewisburg to county seat
- 26 Nov 1799: Robt Cisna & John Bradley ordered to appraise estate of Lewis Reno
- 26 Nov 1799: Wm Cissna, John Reed & John Robinet ordered to mark road from Big Falls on Green River to Greenville
- 24 Dec 1799: Wm Cissna appointed as overseer of road construction from Culbertson’s ford to Greenville.
1800
- 15 July 1800 Wm Owsley of Hancock County sells to John Davis of Greene County for $600, 220 acres, originally granted to Samuel Cessna 24 Jan 1797 , Greene County land on Richland Creek.
- 28 Jan 1800: Wm Cissna, John Robinet & John Bradley ordered to mark road from Bradley’s Horse Mill to intersect road from Lewisburg to Greenville
- 3 Jan 1803 Polly Cessna (Widow of Samuel) married John Royster in Greene County, GA
- 1800 tax list: Robert Cestna & William Cestna , Muhlenberg County, KY
- 1800, Daughter Maria is born in Bedford County, PA
- 1800 Census of Kentucky:
- Robert Cestna Muhlenberg County
- William Cestna Muhlenberg County
- 23 Mar 1801, Charles Cissna claimed a right to land on Cypress creek in Muhlenberg County, KY, 200 acres, granted
- 23 Mar 1801, Robt Cessna claimed right to land on Green River, 200 acres, granted, Muhlenberg County, KY
- 23 Mar 1801, Court of Muhlenberg County sends recommendation to governor that either John Culbertson or Charles Cessna be appointed coroner for Muhlenberg Co. Culbertson was appointed.
- 27 July 1801, Charles Cessna claimed right on land, 200 acres on Cypress. Granted
- 22 Mar 1802, Robert Cessna is a juror. Muhlenberg, Co, KY
- 26 Apr 1800, Thomas Irvin & Thomas Ward are recommended to fill JP vacancy of Robt Cissna, Esq
- Why did Robert vacate the Justice of Peace office in Mid-Term?
- 24 Feb 1801, Thomas Randolph appointed to replace William Cissna as Road Supervisor from Greenville to Lewisburg. Why did William vacate his job as Road Supervisor in Mid-term?
- April 1802, Sally Cessna marries James Sharp in Muhlenberg County, KY.
- 1802, Daughter Mary Ann is born in Bedford County, PA.
- 9-30-1803 Charles Cissna purchases 200 acres in Muhlenberg County, KY, on Cypress and Caney water course. (when survey is recorded it says Charles Cistna)
- 10-18-1805, Charles Cissna sells 200 acres in Muhlenberg County to Peter Watkins
- 22 Apr 1805, Robert Cessna pays tax on 400 acres on Green River
- 20 April 1807, Road from John Culbertson’s Ford on Green River is to Greenville, past Robert Cessna’s fence.
MISSISSIPPI
- 1803 Louisiana Purchase. Northern Mississippi had been part of Georgia Territory until then, and still owned by the Indians. Until that time, Spain and then France had closed the Mississippi river to all traffic. Goods and settlers were brought down the Natchez Trace.
- 4 Sept 1806, Charles Cissna makes land claim of 271 acres on Bayou Pierre in Jefferson County, MS
- 4 Sept 1806, William Cissna claims 160 acres on River Homocito in Jefferson County, MS Land was being granted in Mississippi with a preference to officers of the Revolution. Charles grant is appropriate for a Colonel and Williams is appropriate for a private.
- March 25, 1807: Importation of slaves prohibited by law passed by US Congress, but law does not become effective until following January 1. This dramatically increases value and trade of slaves already in the US. Andrew Jackson and others begin to buy slaves cheap in Kentucky, Tennessee and North Carolina and bring to Northern Mississippi cotton farmers at triple the price.
- Meanwhile….back in Georgia.
- 1805 Georgia Land Lottery: Elizabeth Cessna, Robert Cessna, Samuel Cessna, described as Orphans of a Veteran, are allowed to participate all drew blanks (no land) They are children of Samuel and Polly.
1810
- 11 July 1811, Elizabeth Cessna, widow of Robert files estate in Muhlenberg Co, KY
- 1810 Census of Kentucky:
- Robert Cisney, Muhlenberg County 10010-42010-06
- John Culbertson, Muhlenberg County 00111-00000
- 1808 Census of Mississippi
- Charles Cisna Claiborne County
- 1810 Census of Mississippi
- Charles Cissna MS Jefferson County 1810
- William Cissna MS Jefferson County 1810
- William Jun. Sisney MS Jefferson County 1810
- 15 October 1810, Jefferson County, MS. Charles Cessna sold to Joseph (James) Cessna, William Cessna and Culbertson Cessna; for the sum of $200….one roan horse, one black mare, one sorrel colt, 18 head of horned cattle, 30 head of hogs, all of his household furnishings and farming equipment. Sale witnessed by Aaron Neel and Elizabeth Robenett and filed before JP Caleb Hill on 23 July 1811. (Charles was not present when bill of sale was filed)(No mention of the land or slaves)?
1820
- 1820 Census of Mississippi: William Cesna, Adams Co: 3 males 16-26; 4 females 16-26
- 1820 Census of Mississippi: Charles Cessna, Jefferson Co: 1 male under 10; 1 male 16-26, 1 male over 45: 1 female under 10,1 female 16-26, 1 female over 45.
- 8 March 1822, Mr. Culbertson D. Cessna marries Miss Margaret Robinett, all of Jefferson County, Ms
- 8 June 1824, William W. Cessna marries Mrs. Elizabeth White in Yazoo county, MS
- 1821, Hinds County, MS formed;
- 1823, Yazoo and Copiah Counties formed.
- Aug 25, 1829, Letter of Administration for Charles Cessna, dcd, in Indiana County, PA
1830
- 1830 Census of Mississippi: Jefferson County, Culbertson Cisney, 1 male 5-10; 1 male 20-30; 1 male 30-40: 2 females under 5; 1 female 5-10; 1 female 30-40. 1 male slave & 6 female slaves
- Hinds County, William S. Cissna; 1 male under 5; 1 male 5-10; 1 male 15-20; 1 male 40-50:2 females under 5; 1 female 15-20; 1 female 20-30; 1 female 60-70. 3 female slaves
- Hinds County, Charles Cessna, 1 male under 5, 1 male 30-40, 1 male 70-80: 1 female under 5; 1 female 5-10; 1 female 10-15; 1 female 20-30. 1 male slave & 5 female slaves.
- 1830, Maria Cissna is listed as a resident in Adams County, Natchez, MS
- 5 December 1843, William Cessna dies in Hinds County, MS: wife Elizabeth. Probated 21 Jan 1847.
Sources
- ↑ http://www.genealogy.com/ftm/s/u/t/Diana-Sutor-Greenwood/GENE2-0004.html#CHILD7
- ↑ http://www.genealogy.com/ftm/s/u/t/Diana-Sutor-Greenwood/GENE2-0009.html#CHILD18
- ↑ http://www.genealogy.com/ftm/s/u/t/Diana-Sutor-Greenwood/GENE2-0009.html#CHILD18
- ↑ 1955 Yearbook of PA Sons of American Revolution Lineage Book, Pittsburgh, PA Society of SAR, 1956. Daughters of the American Revolution, DAR Genealogical Research Databases, database online, (http://www.dar.org/ : accessed July 23, 2016), "Record of Charles Cessna", Ancestor # A023683.
- ↑ http://www.genealogy.com/ftm/s/u/t/Diana-Sutor-Greenwood/GENE2-0007.html#CHILD11
- ↑ 1955 Yearbook of PA Sons of American Revolution Lineage Book, Pittsburgh, PA Society of SAR, 1956.
- ↑ Publication Title: Pennsylvania Archives, Series: Colonial Records, Volume: XIV: Chapter: Minutes of the Supreme Executive Council Page: 266
- ↑ Publication Title: Pennsylvania Archives Series: Colonial Records Volume: XII Chapter: Minutes of the Supreme Executive Council Page: 309
- ↑ Publication Title: Pennsylvania Archives Series: Colonial Records Volume: XII Chapter: Minutes of the Supreme Executive Council Page: 309
- ↑ Email from Charles W. "Bill Cissna 10/15/2019
- ↑ Pennsylvania Militia Muster Rolls, Bedford County, PA Pennsylvania Archives, Series V, Vol. 5, p. 82 http://files.usgwarchives.net/pa/bedford/military/militia-1.txt
- ↑ "Pennsylvania Archives; Fifth Series; Volume V" p. 49: Edited by Thomas Lynch Montgomery; Under the direction of the Hon. Frank M. Fuller, Secretary of the Commonwealth Harrisburg, PA: Harrisburg Publishing Company, State Printer, 1906. Muster Rolls and Papers Relating to the Associators and Militia of the County of Bedford
- ↑ The Natchez Court Records, 1767-1805
- ↑ Publication Title: Pennsylvania Archives Series: Colonial Records Volume: XIV Chapter: Minutes of the Supreme Executive Council Pennsylvania (Colony). - 1853 Page: 266
- ↑ Publication Title: Pennsylvania Archives Series: Colonial Records Volume: XII Chapter: Minutes of the Supreme Executive Council Page: 309
- ↑ Publication Title: Pennsylvania Archives Series: Colonial Records Volume: XIII Chapter: Minutes of the Supreme Executive Council Page. 298
- ↑ "The House of Cessna" Author Howard Cessna Publisher Berlin Publish Company, 1935 ISBN 0598582932, 9780598582935
- ↑ "Genealogy of the Culbertson and Culberson families" by Culbertson, Lewis Rogers, b. 1867 Publication date 1923. Publisher: Zanesville, O. The Courier Co., printers
- ↑ House of Cessna Blog 5/4/2016 http://www.houseofcessna.com/blog/archives/05-2016 "WHAT IF HIS NAME WASN’T JEAN DE CESSNA?" by Charles W. "Bill" Cissna
- ↑ House of Cessna Blog 12/31/2015 by Charles W. "Bill" Cissna http://www.houseofcessna.com/blog/foot-prints-of-colonel-charles-cessna "Foot Prints of Colonel Charles Cessna" 12/31/2015
- ↑ Book: Historical Collections of Ga (1854) p 477 among earliest settlers of Greene County was Charles Cessna. p 479
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DNA Connections
It may be possible to confirm family relationships with Charles by comparing test results with other carriers of his Y-chromosome or his mother's mitochondrial DNA. However, there are no known yDNA or mtDNA test-takers in his direct paternal or maternal line. It is likely that these autosomal DNA test-takers will share some percentage of DNA with Charles:
It may be possible to confirm family relationships with Charles by comparing test results with other carriers of his Y-chromosome or his mother's mitochondrial DNA. However, there are no known yDNA or mtDNA test-takers in his direct paternal or maternal line. It is likely that these autosomal DNA test-takers will share some percentage of DNA with Charles:
-
~0.39%
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Featured National Park champion connections: Charles is 12 degrees from Theodore Roosevelt, 18 degrees from Stephanus Johannes Paulus Kruger, 16 degrees from George Catlin, 14 degrees from Marjory Douglas, 20 degrees from Sueko Embrey, 16 degrees from George Grinnell, 24 degrees from Anton Kröller, 16 degrees from Stephen Mather, 21 degrees from Kara McKean, 10 degrees from John Muir, 17 degrees from Victoria Hanover and 23 degrees from Charles Young on our single family tree. Login to find your connection.