John Sevier Branson (1826 - 1905)

Born 17 Mar 1826 in Claiborne, Tennessee, United States

Ancestors

Son of Thomas Jarred Branson and Anna (McGowan) Branson

Died 27 Nov 1905 at age 79 in Mariposa, California, United States [uncertain]

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Biography

John Sevier Branson was born March 17, 1826, a son of Thomas Branson and Anna McGowan. ^[1] In 1846, John married Martha Jane Ousley and headed west in 1847, passing thru Oregon with Martha and her family joining him about 1853. John's entire pioneer family history can be found at: http://davesmeds.malibulist.com/fam/john_sev_branson.htm

Obituary

Mariposa Gazette, December 2, 1905

One of the early pioneers of Mariposa county, passed to his final rest last Monday at the ripe old age of 83 years. Mr. Branson was a native of Tennessee and his first residence in this county was at Phillips Flat near the Merced river in Hornitos district, where he resided for a number of years. He then located nearer Hornitos where he lived continuously for thirty-five years and where he died. Mr. Branson was married while a young man to the estimable lady who survives him. Ten children were the result of their union, nearly all of whom are now alive. Deceased was a kind husband and father, of a generous and hospitable nature, and a man who merited and claimed the respect of all. His death is sadly regretted. The funeral was held in Hornitos and the body was laid to rest in the I. O. O. F. cemetery of that town.

Will of John Sevier Branson

John's will was filed in Mariposa County by Joseph Branson February 26 1909 A.D. His will is as follows: Last Will and Testament of John Branson, Mariposa Co, California, November 27, 1900

I, John Branson of Mariposa County, State of California, being of sound mind do this the Twenty Seventh day of November A D 1900. Make this my Last Will and Testament. I do hereby give and bequeth to my dear and beloved wife, Martha Branson, of Mariposa County, California for her support, protection and livelyhood all property belonging to me, both Real and Personal situated and being in Mariposa County California. Together with all and singular the xxxxxx here ditaments(?) and appurtenuance there unto belonging or otherwise appertaining and the reocassion and repossessions, remainder and remainders, rents, issues and profits there of during her life. After her death, all debts owning by me shall be paid, and the remainder of said Estate shall be divided share and share alike between my Ten Children. Viz,

Ruben Branson, Joseph Branson, Alvin Branson, John S. Branson, Mrs. Mary Johnson, Nancy Napier, Theresa Moore, Mattie Mueller, Thomas Branson and the children of Mrs. Pheobe McDonald shall receive the share of their deceased mother. I do hereby appoint Wm McDonald and W. O. Moore executors of this my Last Will and Testament without Bond.

In Witness whereof I have this the twenty-seventh day of November A D 1900 Set my hand and Seal. John Branson

Sources

1. ↑ See an excellent website, "What the Cat Dragged in" by descendant, Dave Smeds

• 1851 Estate Settlement for Thomas Branson, Gasconade Co Missouri
• https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/11417078/john-sevier-branson