LPD Press & Rio Grande Books

Revised 5/4/2017. Copyright @2017; The following Documentary Timeline has been compiled and created by Paul Rhetts. It may be copied for research purposes; but it may not be reproduced for inclusion in any printed or electronic distribution of any kind without the express written permission of the author. Any requests to use this information should be sent to Paul Rhetts, LPDPress@q.com.


Christian F SEARS (1742-1843) m. (1) Catherine Barbara STUTZMAN (1759-1834); (2) Hannah DAWKINS (1813-1851)
s/o Johannes ZAHER (1710-1800) m. _____?? (1725-1757) 1-d/o Jacob STUTZMAN (1727-1813) m. Barbara Yoder BERGY (1731-1776)
2-d/o William Dawkins (abt 1696-1791) m.


1742 Christian F SEARS born at Switzerland [Rowan, NC??] {oldest child of 4]
[mother=unknown name] Siblings were John, Ann and Barbara. Little is known of Ann and Barbara. What is known is Ann may have married John Helm in North Carolina and Barbara married Mark Shulse. Christian remembered helping his father herd the sheep and how close they were to the clouds, where they were able to wash their hands in the mist.

1750 Johannes Zaher or Zerr and family, including Christian F SEARS, immigrated to Philadelphia, on the Brothers captained by Muir, originally from Switzerland [He was a member of the group to form the Brethren (Dunkard) Church: The History of Decatur County Garber Family] [The first part of this adventure would be near a 1000miles trip up the Rhine River to Amsterdam. They resided in Holland for a short time while waiting for a ship to America.] [The Dunkards were similar to the Mennonites, in some ways. They wore only simple clothing, and the men never cut or trimmed their beards. They refused to take oaths or litigate, and were extreme pacifists. They could not have gone along with any revolution, because the Bible told them they must submit to any leader that God had put in authority over them. Their refusal to take part in any military force, or pay for someone to take their place, caused trouble for them, and this may have been a factor in their westward migration. They were called Dunkards (or Dunkers, Tunkers, German Baptist Brethren) because they insisted that baptism, for adults only, had to be face forward, with full immersion three times, in flowing water. They also had ritualized washing of each others' feet, and other peculiarities. A Dunkard church would never have stained glass, steeples or crosses. After the Reformation, they were known as Disciples of Christ. Many different sects of German Baptists inhabited America in the 19th Century, and they were constantly arguing and splitting up over the details of baptism and communion rituals. As hard as their lives must have been, it seems ironic that the most important things on their minds involved the minutiae of the baptism ceremony.] The most well-known Dunkard church is the one at Antietam, Maryland. Its location played a key role in the Battle of Antietam, which took place on 17 Sep 1862.

1751 Christian's brother John was born in York County, Pennsylvania; he served in Rev War

1757 Mother name unknown died; Johann Zaher re-married in abt 1758 to Barbara Miller (widow of John Hahn and mother of Jonas Hon; she had a brother named Henry)

1759 Catherine Barbara STUTZMAN born at Frederick, Frederick, MD [Family Data Collections confirms date, location and marriage as 1777; also lists Jacob and Barbara as parents] [another source says marriage was 1774] [Jacob Stutzman was an immigrant ancestor who arrived in Philadelphia aboard the "Nancy" captained by John Ewing on 27 September 1752. They sailed from Rotterdam to Philadelphia by way of Cowes.In 1752, a family named Stutzman left the lower Neckar Valley of Germany. This is an area near Stuttgart, from which the family appears to have derived their name. This family consisted of the father, mother, a sixteen year old son and an unknown number of younger children. During the voyage on a ship named Nancy, the father of the family died and was buried at sea. When the ship arrived in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, the family was denied entrance because there was no male family head, and a female could not act in the capacity of head of household.  Jacob, the oldest son was a serious sixteen year old, dedicated to becoming a minister of the Dunker congregation (also know as German Baptists and one of the sects now in the Church of the Brethren). Jacob was allowed to then sign as the head of the family. In 1753 the young minister married a girl named Barbara Yoder. The Dunkers refused to take an oath, respond to court orders and some other seemingly senseless customs. When the American Revolution began Jacob followed his conscience and refused to ally himself with the colonists, even though he and his family had been given the hospitality of this new land and had enjoyed the safety denied to them in the native Germany. He may have been in Bern Township, Berks County, Pennsylvania prior to 1757 when he was settled in Coventry Township, Chester County, Pennsylvania. By late 1759, Jacob had 60 acres on the Meadow branch of Great Pipe Creek in Frederick (now Carroll) County, Maryland.In early October of 1764 he sold out in Maryland and moved to North Carolina. He settled on the forks of the Uwharrie River in Rowan (now Randolph) County, North Carolina and started the Ewarry Congregation of The Brethren. Within 10 years he had a congregation of 19 families. During the American Revolution, the number of families increased by two or three fold due to refugees from Pennsylvania.  He advocated the doctrine of "universal salvation" and introduced it for consideration at an Annual Dunkard meeting in 1799. For this belief, he was excommunicated in 1799 and on appeal, in 1800. He sold out in North Carolina and moved to Washington Township, Clark County, Indiana after 1801. The Olive Branch Brethren congregation was organized in 1802 and their meetinghouse (built in 1821) and cemetery were across the road from his homestead. He was the minister for this congregation. Jacob Stutzman of Uwharrie, accompanied at least by his sons Jacob Jr. and John, took up land in Brothers Valley Township, Bedford (now Somerset) County, Pennsylvania, in 1784. Elder Stutzman did not stay in Pennsylvania.  In the 1790 Federal Census for Pennsylvania, Jacob Stutzman (Jr.), John Stutzman, and brothers-in-law Philip Harmon and Thomas Hutchinson were enumerated in the same cluster of heads of households in Bedford County.  In the 1790 Federal Census for North Carolina (taken in early 1791), Hutchinson and Harmon were back south in time for enumeration there also. Shortly thereafter, both Jacob Jr. and John returned to Carolina also. John to stay until he moved to Indiana in 1803, Jacob to recruit his younger brothers David and Samuel for Pennsylvania settlement. What occurred during the ensuing few years is still vague because Jacob Stutzman Sr., his sons, and his sons-in-law spent the 1790s in acquiring land in both North Carolina and Pennsylvania. By 1798, the family group held approximately 6000 acres in both states. In Pennsylvania, Jacob Jr., Samuel, and David all married Bergey sisters, then sold out in 1798 and moved west where all three were on the Henry County, Kentucky, tax rolls of 1800.  Certainly with the presence or connections of the Carolina Stutzmans with the Hostetlers, Yoders, and Bergeys, all of whom were rooted in the Bern Township, Berks County, Pennsylvania, Amish settlement, the southern Indiana Stutesmans had to have had Amish roots.  When Stutzman moved north in 1801-1802, he gathered up his sons in Henry County, Kentucky, for they joined him in purchasing a tract in the Illinois Grant on March 22, 1802 and all four were sued when they failed to make payments as agreed. Youngest son Joseph died shortly upon arrival. Sons John and Daniel remained in North Carolina until the Fall of 1803 when they both moved to the Illinois Grant. With the exception of son-in-law Jacob Hoover, son of Andrew Hoover Sr., who succeeded his father as the miller at the Forks of Uwharrie and was one of the wealthiest men in Randolph County, all of Stutzman's children and in-laws had moved to southern Indiana or northern Kentucky by 1812. After Jacob Hoover's death in 1821, his widow (Stutzman's daughter Elizabeth) moved to Boone County, Indiana, where she died in 1840.  The public records of-pioneer Dark County, Indiana Territory, 1802-1816, are full of the Stootsmin Statesman presence. All of the Elder's sons were active in public and court affairs. If they were not being sued, they were suing someone. They sat on both grand and petit juries, and at least two of them participated in death verdicts. There was some public washings of dirty linen as family members filed suits and cross-suits over who had called whom a "hog thief." They still scrupled, however, against bearing arms. They did not participate in militia musters or the War of 1812 although the Pigeon Roost Massacre was virtually on their doorstep.  More About Jacob Stutzman:Burial: Olive Branch Cemetery, Washington Township, Clark County, Indiana]

1766 dau Katherine SEARS born at NC; married George Harmon; moved to Jefferson Co, IA

15 May 1768 Shortly after his father’s remarriage to Barbara Miller the family moved to Frederick County, Maryland. Johannes bought an apple farm called "Hawkins and Merry Reep A Day". In the deed his oldest heir and wife are listed. Their names are son Christian and wife Barbara. So this is how John Zere of York, Pennsylvania is connected to be the John Zear of Frederick County, Maryland and later Rowan County, North Carolina. Dunkard Church was at Pipe Creek and the minister was Jacob Stutzman, father of Catherine Barbara who married Christian Sears.

1768 Christian F SEARS and Catherine Barbara STUTZMAN married at Rowan, NC [sometime shortly after moving to Rowan, NC, Christian and his brother John were listed as not taking the oath of allegiance to the revolutionary government. The Dunkard (German Baptist) religion was a pacifist group. [Philbert Wright was executor of Christian Sear’s father-in-law's will]

17 Nov 1768 Father Johann Zaher: Frederick Co, MD Deed: LIBRE L of FREDERICK COUNTY, MARYLAND pages 570,571, 572 At the request of John Zear the following lease was recorded Nov 17th 1768.To wit This indenture made this fifteenth day of May in the year of our lord one thousand seven hundred and sixty eight between Alexander Thomas Hawkins of Prince George County in the Province of Maryland Party of the one part and John Zear of Frederick County in the Province of aforesaid farmer of the other part witnesseth tha the sd Alexander Thomas Hawkins for and in consideration of the rents covenants & agreements hereinafter ?and in about paid is done and purposed by the said John Zear his exec. Adm & assigns hath devised leased and to farm ? and by the presents doth devise lease and to ?unto the said John Zear his exec. Adm & assigns all that part or parcel of land being part of tract of land called Hawkins & Merry Reepa day situate lying and being in the county aforesaid Beginning at the East of fifty perches on the ninety first line of said Hawkins & Merry Reep a day, and running thence six seventy is a east fifty perches north twenty five degrees east sixty perches north thirty three degrees south twenty perches north fifty two degrees east twenty perches to a box white oak then north seventy three degrees east for twenty six? Twenty nine degrees East Eighty perches south forty seven degrees west sixty perches south forty eight degrees east fifty. Three perches south eighty one degrees East forty four perches to a south corner of John and Larch taken up by John Host? South seventeen perches south thirty one degrees east twelve perches south eighty four degrees west sixty two perches south ten degrees west forty perches south eighty four degrees and an half degree west two hundred and forty eight perches to the east of one hundred and seventy six perches on the third line of Andrew Rotrock part of said land then by a straight line to place of beginning containing and now laid out for two hundred acres of land more or less. To have and to hold the lands and premises hereby granted or meant or intended to be unto the said John Zear his exec adm & assigns for and during the several and respective lives of the said John Zear Barbara Zear wife of the said John Zear & Christian Zear son of the said John and Barbara Zear yielding and paying therefore unto the said Alexander Thomas Hawkins his heirs & assigns the annual rent or sum of six pounds current money dollars at seven shillings sixpence each for year to be paid in manner and form following that is to say the first year rent to be paid ?upon the fifteenth day of May which will be in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and seventy one and the said sum of six pounds current money as a forward to be paid on every fifteenth day of May yearly and ? year therefore during the continuance of the present demise and the said Alexander Thomas Hawkins for himself his heirs his heirs exec adm & assigns doth hereby convent promise grant and agree band with the said John Zear his exec or adm & assigns by these presents in manner and form following that to say that the said John Zear his exec adm & assigns paying the rents and performing the laminants and agreements precise contained and on his and their parts and behalf to be paid done observed performed and kept shall and may peaceably quietly have hold use occupy possess and enjoy the lands and premises hereby devised be contented to be for and during the term hereby granted and the said John Zear for himself his exec adm &assigns doth ? promise and agree to and with the said Alexander Thomas Hawkins his heirs & assigns by their presents in withess be and form following of that is to say that he the said John Zear his exec adm &assigns shall and will well and truly pay or come to be paid unto the said Alexander Thomas Hawkins his heirs & assigns. The yearly rent of six pounds current money as a aforesaid at and upon the day and times herein before appointed for the payment thereof and shall who pay the? rents of the said premises from the fifteenth day of May in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and sixty eight for and during the term hereby granted and also that he the said John Zear his exec adm & assigns shall within the pace of three years from the date of this presents, plant one hundred and fifty apple trees upon the said demised premises and further that he the said John Zear his exec adm &assigns shall not at any time during the continuance of the term hereby demised clear above or more than one hundred and twenty acres of the said demised premises neither shall he or they sell or waste any of the timber growing on the said demise premises provided always nevertheless and the true intent and meaning of these presents and the parties hereto is that of the said yearly rent of six pounds shall remain unpaid for the space of three year after that of the first years rent during the continuance of the term hereby demised or if the said John Zear his exec adm or assigns shall sell or dispose of his or their term in the said demised premised or absent himself or themselves from the said premises so as not to be heard of for the space of seven years during the continuance of the demise, that then and from thenceforth the present indenture of demise shall be ? void and of none effect as of the same had never been made and then and from thenceforth it shall and may be lawfull to and for the said Alexander Thomas Hawkins his heirs and assigns to enter into and upon the said demised premises and the same to have again repossese and enjoy as in his or their former estate any thing herein before mentioned or contained to the contrary thereof in any wise not standing In Witness whereof the said Alexander Thomas as ? hath hereunto set his hand and seal the day and year first above written. Signed sealed and delivered in presents of us John Cooke, George Gantt(seal statement) Alexander Thomas Hawkins (signature & seal) On the Back which lease was the following indorsemens To Wit Prince Georges County for September 9th 1768 Then Alexander Thomas Hawksins acknowledged the within settlement of writing to be his act and deed and deed according to the true intent and meaning of the within lease of the act of family in such was mad and provide.. John Cooke Geo Gantt Prince Georges County for Hereby certife that ? John Cooke and George Gantt gentleman before whom the above acknowledgment and taken were at the time of taking the same and still are two of his lordships the right honorable, the lords proprietary his justices of the Peace for the county aforesaid duly authorized and assigned and that to all acknowledgements by them So taken and signed due faith and estate is and ought to be given as within justice court at ? In Testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the Publick seal of the county aforesaid. This tenth day of September Anno Domine 1768 Thos Jim Lee Clerk of Prince George County. 
11 Aug 1769 son Samuel Sears born at Rowan, NC; married Christena Conrad [Martin] in KY; died 1857 in Franklin, IA

29 Nov 1769 Father Johann Zaher: Book B, pages 204-205, the Orphans Court, records the event this way: "At an Orphans Court held at York, the County of York the twenty ninth day of November in the ninth year of the reign of our sovereign Lord George the third by the grace of God of Great Britian, France and Ireland King Defender of the Faith etc, Anno Domini 1768 before David Jameson Martin Eychelberger and Michael Swoop esq. Justices & cassigned & c.- "Came into court Henry Miller Administrator of all and singular the goods and chattels rights and credits which were of John Hahn deceased and produced the accompt of his administration of the estate of the deceased as settled by the Register of this county whereby there appeared to be a balance of forty seven pounds eleven shillings three pence in his hands to be distributed which being examined by the court they do approve of and confirm the same whereupon it is ordered and decreed by the court that the said Henry Miller do pay unto John Zere and Barbara his wife which said Barbara is the late widow of the said deceased the sum of fifteen pounds twelve shillings and ten pence in full for her third part of the said balances that the said Henry Miller also pay unto Jonas Hahn the only child of the deceased the sum of thirty one pounds five shillings and eight pence in full for his share of the said ballances that which with the costs of this court makes the full amount of the said sum in the hands of the said administrator." 

1771 dau Esther Sears born at Rowan, NC; married Michael David Peebler on 22 Nov 1796 at Clark, KY; moved to Hamilton Co, IL

1772 York Co, PA Tax List: From Special Publication Number 5 Oct 1978 An Alphabetical Listing of the Assessed Inhabitants of York Pennsylvania for 1762 compiled + published by The South Central Pennsylvania Genealogical Society PO Box 1824 York PA 17405; Pe=town of Paradise Mm=town of Mannheim; John Kear mm; Christian Kear mm; Caspar Rowland pe; John Zear mm pg 18

1722 PA Land Warrant: Warrant Register, (from PA Historical and Museum Commission, Bureau of Archives, PA State Archives). No. of Warrant Warrantee Desc. of Warrant Quantity Warrant Location Date of Warrant 2 Zehr, John Survey 300 On Mahantango Crk 21 Oct 1772 Date of Return (Released) 

1773 Frederick Co, MD Deed: John Zear sold the lease to Alexander J. Hawkins Liber U page 78 Nov 3, 1773. Frederick, MD Liber U Folio 78-81 At the request of Alexander Thomas Hawkins the following lease was recorded November 3rd 1773 - This indenture made this first day of November. In the year seventeen Hundred and seventy three between John Zear of Frederick county in Maryland of the one part and Alexander Thomas Hawkins of Prince Georges County in Maryland of the other part Witnesseth that the said John Zear for and in consideration of the sum of sixty pounds current money to him in hand paid at and before the ensealing and delivery of these presents the receipt whereof the said John Zear doth hereby acknowledged and there from or quit and discharge the said Alexander Thomas Hawkins his heirs & Exec. Administrative and assigns and every of them by these presents hath given granted bargained sold aliened released removed confirmed and surrendered and by these presents doth give grant bargain sell alien release remove confirm surrender and recovery unto him the and Alexander Thomas Hawkins his heirs and assigns all that part or parcel of land being part of a tract of land called Hawkinses Merry Peep a Day situate lying and being in Frederick County aforesaid Beginning at their end of fifty perches on the ninety first line of Hawkins Merry Peep a Day and runing thence South Seventy Three Degrees East fifty perches North twenty five degrees East Sixty perches North thirty three degrees West twenty perches North fifty one degrees east twenty perches to a roped white oak then North seventy three degrees East forty perches South twenty nine degrees East Eighty Perches South forty seven Degrees West Sixty Perches South forty Eight Degrees East forty four perches south eighty one degrees East forty four perches to a south course of John and Sarah Taker up by John Ha? then South seventeen perches south thirty one degrees East twelve five South Eighty four degrees West sixty six perches south in degrees West forty perches South eighty four degrees and a half degree West ? hundred and forty eight perches to the end of the hundred and seventy six perches on the third line of Andrew Rotrocks part of said land then by a straight line to the place of Beginning containing and out for two hundred acres of land more or less being the same parcel of land which was heretofore in or about the fifteenth day of May seventeen hundred and sixty eight leased demised by the said Alexander Thomas Hawkins to the said John Zear his Exec Adm and assigns for and during the leases of the said John Zear and Barbara Zear and Christian Zear together with all and singular the houses edifices buildings gardens ways waters water courses commodetion privileges and advantages premises and appurtences to the same parcel of land belonging or appurtaining and also all the right title and estate of the said John Zear of in and to the name and of in and to Every part and parcel thereof To have and to Hold the said parcel of land hereby bargained sold released and surrendered and every part and parcel thereof and for ? with the appurtenances to him the said Alexander Thomas Hawkins his heirs and assigns to the only proper use and behoof of the said Alexander Thomas Hawkins his heirs and assigns for ever In witness whereof the party's to these presents have hereunto interchangeably set their hands and affixed their seals the day and year first above written. signed sealed and delivered --- John Zear In the presence of us Charles Jones Andrew Hugh Received on the day and year first within written of and from the within named Alexander Thomas Hawkins the sum of sixty pounds current money being the consideration money within mentioned to be by him paid to me --- John Zear Witness Charles Jones Andrew Hugh On the first day of November in te year seventeen hundred and seventy three came the within named John Zear before us the subscribers two of his lordships justices of the peace for Frederick county and acknowledged the within instrument of writing to be his act and Deed and the land and premises therein mentioned to be the right and estate of the within named Alexander Thomas Hawkins his heirs and assigns according to the true interest and meaning of the name writing and the act of assembly in such case made and provided acknowledged before us Charles Jones Andrew Hugh

1773 PA Land Patient: Patent Index A-AA Series, 1684-1781 (from the PA Historical and Museum Commission, Bureau of Archives, PA State Archives) AA-No. 12, Oct 1770-Aug 1776; Patent Date page Patentee Quantity Warrantee Date County 21 April 1773; 214 Zehr, John 300 Deed to 21 Oct 1772 Northumberland George Miller 

1 Nov 1773 Johannes Zaher sold his land in MD and family moved to Rowan, NC

3 Nov 1773 Father Johann Zaher: Libre U pages 78-81 At the request of Alexander Thomas Hawkins the following lease was recorded November 3rd 1773 This indenture made this first day of November. In the year seventeen Hundred and seventy three between John Zear of Frederick county in Maryland of the one part and Alexander Thomas Hawkins of Prince Georges County in Maryland of the other part Witnesseth that the said John Zear for and inconsideration of the sum of sixty pounds current money to him in hand paid at and before the ensealing and delivery of these presents the receipt whereof the said John Zear doth hereby acknowledged and therefrom or quit and discharge the said Alexander Thomas Hawkins his heirs& Exec. Administrative and assigns and every of them by these presents hath given granted bargained sold aliened released removed confirmed and surrendered and by these presents doth give grant bargain sell alien release remove confirm surrender and recovery unto him the and Alexander Thomas Hawkins his heirs and assigns all that part or parcel of land being part of a tract of land called Hawkinses Merry Peep a Day situate lying and being in Frederick County aforesaid Beginning at their end of fifty perches on the ninety first line of Hawkins Merry Peep a Day and runing thence South Seventy Three Degrees East fifty perches North twenty five degrees East Sixty perches North thirty three degrees West twenty perches North fifty one degrees east twenty perches to a roped white oak then North seventy three degrees East forty perches South twenty nine degrees East Eighty Perches South forty seven Degrees West Sixty Perches South forty Eight Degrees East forty four perches south eighty one degrees East forty four perches to a south course of John and Sarah Taker up by John Ha? then South seventeen perches south thirty one degrees East twelve five South Eighty four degrees West sixty six perches south in degrees West forty perches South eighty four degrees and a half degree West ? hundred and forty eight perches to the end of the hundred and seventy six perches on the third line of Andrew Rotrocks part of said land then by a straight line to the place of Beginning containing and ? out for two hundred acres of land more or less being the same parcel of land which was heretofore in or about the fifteenth day of May seventeen hundred and sixty eight leased demised by the said Alexander Thomas Hawkins to the said John Zear his Exec Adm and assigns for and during the leases of the said John Zear and Barbara Zear and Christian Zear together with all and singular the houses ? houses edifices buildings gardens ways waters water courses commodetion privileges and advantages premises and appurtences to the same parcel of land belonging or appurtaining and also all the right title and estate of the said John Zear of in and to the name and of in and to Every part and parcel thereof To have and to Hold the said parcel of land hereby bargained sold released and surrendered and every part and parcel thereof and for ? with the appurtenances to him the said Alexander Thomas Hawkins his heirs and assigns to the only proper use and behoof of the said Alexander Thomas Hawkins his heirs and assigns for ever In witness whereof the party's to these presents have hereunto interchangeably set their hands and affixed their seals the day and year first above written. signed sealed and delivered --- John Zear In the presence of us Charles Jones Andrew Hugh Received on the day and year first within written of and from the within named Alexander Thomas Hawkins the sum of sixty pounds current money being the consideration money within mentioned to be by him paid to me --- John Zear Witness Charles Jones Andrew Hugh On the first day of November in the year seventeen hundred and seventy three came the within named John Zear before us the subscribers two of his lordships justices of the peace for Frederick county and acknowledged the within instrument of writing to be his act and Deed and the land and premises therein mentioned to be the right and estate of the within named Alexander Thomas Hawkins his heirs and assigns according to the true interest and meaning of the name writing and the act of assembly in such case made and provided acknowledged before us Charles Jones Andrew Hugh 
19 Apr 1775 Father Johann Zaher - DAR accepts service for the period of 19 Apr 1775-26 Nov 1783; DAR accepts service for this period.

abt 1776 son Jacob Sears born at Rowan, NC; married Mary Hann Huffstutter on 16 Dec 1802 at Bourbon, KY; moved Hamilton Co, IN [some say he married Mary Harmon-2nd wife?? (she was a 1st cousin) And living near Springfield, IL by 1843 when father died and then moved to Missouri]] [he died 18 Apr 1859 in Vermillion Co, IN]

13 Feb 1776 dau Mary Molly SEARS born at Rowan, NC; married Philburt T Wright on 15 Aug 1793 at Rowan, NC

1778 Rowan Co, NC Tax List: Richard Sears is listed with 2,244 lbs. Christian Sears is listed with 160 lbs. There are numerous grants and deeds to Richard Sears on the record books; he was obviously a wealthy man.

1780 Census Reconstructed Record, Rowan, NC-Christian Sears: "Cap. D. Smith's District"

19 Jan 1780 John Jr is buying land and is listed as Junior which means Johannes is the senior man in town.

11 Apr 1781 dau Sarah Laurie Sears born at Rowan, NC; married Christian Napolean Shires in 1801; moved to TN

16 Dec 1781 dau Elizabeth Sears born at Rowan, NC; married James Benjamin Wright in 1800 at Oldham, KY [one source says 18 Feb 1776 ] [She married James Wright about 1800 in North Carolina. It is reported he worked for Christian and then moved to Pigeon Roost, Indiana. On Sept. 3, 1812, the historical Indian Massacre of Pigeon Roost occurred. James and Elizabeth had five children at this time. James was out working the next day when a man came running to tell him the sad news that Pigeon Roost had been taken the night before by Shawnee Indians. Sixteen children and six women had been slaughtered. James took Nancy, the fourth child on horse back to Kentucky near Louisville to his wife's parents. Christian and James and slaves took wagons back to get the rest of family and the household goods. After peace had been declared, James moved his family to Washington County, Indiana then to Monroe County, Indiana in 1816. Elizabeth Sears and her husband James Wright had nine children: 1. Emsley Wright 2. David Wright 3. Frankie Ann Wright married Isaac Bowen 4. Charity Wright married Basil Hill 5. Nancy Wright married Wesley Wright 6. Sarah Wright married Hugh Hill 7. Phoebe Wright married Nathaniel Crane 8.Mary Wright married Stephen Morgan and 9. James B. Wright] ["Genealogy of the Wright Family", by Lillie Elizabeth Wright Lane White, F# 1313191 #4 SLFHL._!James moved to Oldham Ky. as a young man and worked for Christian Sears, where he met and married his wife Elizabeth. James and Elizabeth lived with Elizabeth's family for a few years then moved to IN._!James and his family were members of the Lather Wood Church, then The South Union Church in Monroe IN._!James was tall, of medium size and had blue eyes. He was a hard worker and Justice of the Peace from 1818 to 1827. He also played the violin and loved to sing hymns. He lived to be 92 years James Wright, son of Benjamin and Barbara (Morgan) Wright was born in Randolph County, North Carolina, December 16, 1781, and died May 11, 1873, at his home near Harrodsburg, Monroe County, Indiana. He was raised on his father's farm but went to Kentucky when a young man and worked on a farm for Christian Sears, in Oldham County, Kentucky. James married Elizabeth Sears, daughter of Christian and Catherine Sears, in about 1800. They lived for a few years with Christian Sears in Kentukcy, then moved to Utica, Indiana. Their third child, David, was born November 16, 1806 at Utica, Indiana. Later they moved to Pigeon Roost,Indiana. On September 3, 1812, the historical Indian Massacre of Pigeon Roostwas made. James and Elixabeth had five children at that time, Frankie Ann, Charity, David, Nancy, and Emsley. They lived eat of the Indian trail from the settlement and were spared. james was out working the next day when a man came running to tell him the sad news, that Peion Roost had been taken the night before by Shawnee Indians. Sixteen children and six women had been slaughtered. James took Nancy, the fourth child, on horse back to Kentucky, near Louisville,to his wife's parents. Christian and Catherine Sears. James and Negro slavestook the wagons back to get the rest of the family and the household goods. After peace had been declared, James moved his family to Washington County, Indiana, then to Monroe County, in 1816.__When Indiana became a state, James Wright entered land in Monroe County, Indiana on September 24, 1816, the S. E. Section, 160 acrs. Later he entered eight other tracts of land making 1163 acres. One entry in Monroe County, on Septembet 15, 1825, was for 80 acres in Township 7, North of Range 2 W, S.E. Section. Lillie Wright Lane White, his great granddaughter, and writer of this book, has the sheepskin deed for this entry of land, and it is signed by President John Quincy Adams. James and his brother Jesse Wright, bought land from Thomas Hill and his wife Milley in 1824. James was at one time, one of the three largest tax payers in Monroe County. Hi farm was eight miles south of Bloomington, Indiana. James Wright and his family attended a log church on John Kutch's farm near the banks of Clear Creek. It was called Lather Wood Church. Later he helped build South Union Church. Many of his descendants were memebers of this church and are buried in the cemetery there. James was a faithful member of the church, read his Bible and had family prayers. In 1941, I saw his large Bible and most every page was marked, some written on where he was searching for knowledge of the Bible. He played the violin and sang hymns. He enjoyed life and died at the age of 92. He was able to work until he fell and broke his hip, when coming from the barn after feeding the cattle one cold winter morning. He lived fro about three months. He was buried on his farm, a short distance from his brick home, by his first wife Elizabeth. Many of his relatives are buried in this family cemetery. The writer of this skech was at his funeral there on May 11, 1873. James was a Justice of thePeace from 1818 to 1827. James was tall, of medium size and had blue eyes. he worked hard clearing off the timber and getting the fields ready to tend in grain. Before I saw James' Bible, I was told that he was born at the beginningof the Revolution, and had a stone erected from him with the date of birth as 1775. His Bible gives 1781, which was at the close of the Revolution. James Wright's birth is given in the Ketchem and Kutch Genealogy as 1775, which was a mistake.]

1784 Johannes Zaher listed as John Sares with 200 acres, John Sears Jr listed as only John Sares 140 acres and Christance Sares 200 acres; all paying taxes

1786 son David Sears born at Rowan, NC; married Christena Ann Smith; moved to Monroe Co, IN [one source says he did not die in 1837 in IN; he moved family to IA in 1839 and died in Jefferson Co, IA] [one source says wife name was Catherine Crum]

1786 Johannes is listed as paying tax and being older that 60 years so born before 1726. 1786 tax North Carolina General Assembly placed a maximum tax age of 60 on free polls, freeing a John Sears from paying poll tax. From this tax we know that Johannes Zaher was born before 1726.

1787 son John Sears born at Rowan, NC; died in 1841 in Orange Co, IN [one source says he did not die in Orange Co in 1841 but in Edgar Co, IL and died in 1869]; married Nancy Souther

1788 {NOTE: The Sears who moved to Nicholas County, KY about 1788 "with the Hons and Schulses" was not "Christian Sr." but John, b. 1749, and his wife Betsy Hon. There's little doubt that Christian and John were brothers; no proof yet. It's also likely, but unproven, that their father was the immigrant Johann Zerr. There is evidence that Johann married (2nd)"The Widow Hon" who was Betsy Hon's mother. Some say (unconfirmed) that Christian's first wife was Barbara Stutzman, but others believe her name was Catherine (unknown). The Sears, Stutzman, Hon, Huffstutter, Schulse, Conrad, Martin, etc families were all members of a very close group of Dunkards. Samuel, probably (but not proven) brother of Christian, married Anna Christina Conrad (not Martin) and they were involved in establishing the Brethren Church at Franklin, near Leon, Decatur County, IA. Christina's sister Catherine Conrad married John Sears Jr. son of John and Betsy (Hon) Sears Sr.  pg 159-160 338 John Sears This day claimed a right to four hundred acres of land by virtue of his having settled and improved the same agreeable to law in that case made and provided and located as follows To wit John Sears enters 400 acres of land on the water of Green River Beginning at a brick corner of Philip Graves 200 acre survey running thence with said line S 50 W 126 poles to a beech Graveses Corner thenS27 W 4 poles to a hickory Hams corner then with said Hams line N70 E88 poles to a beech Hams Corner then with said line S 20 E 204 poles to an ash and gum then S 75 E 32 poles to a white oak then N 75 E 120Poles... (pg 160 not abstracted).]

1790 Census, Rowan, NC-Christian Sears: 3 free white males over 16, 2 white males under 16 and 8 white females (doc). [The 1790 census of Rowan County, North Carolina only has Christian Sears and John Sears. The assumed breakdown of this 1790 would probably be:  Christian Sears 3 males over 16; Christian, Johannes, and Johannes' Jacob, 2 males under 16; Christian's Jacob, and Christian's David; 8 females; Christian wife Barbara, Christian's daughter Mary, Christian's daughter Sarah, Christian's daughter Elizabeth, Johannes' daughter Esther, Johannes' daughter Frances, Johannes's daughter Susan and Johannes' daughter Elizabeth. (Christian's son John was born later this year, Johannes older son John listed separate,  Johannes oldest daughters Ann and Barbara are married we do not know who Ann married but Mark Shults below could be Barbara and her husband.  Johannes' daughter Mary was married before1783 appears to be in Kentucky by 1790 and his daughter Catherine was married to George Harmon by 1786 and are in Randolph County, North Carolina. Step brother and half brother Jonas Hon is in Kentucky with his half brother Samuel son of Johannes'. John Sears ( son of Johannes) 1790 is probably 1 male over 16 is John Sears; 4 males are probably John's  son John Jr., John's son Henry, John's son George Jacob and it appears his half brother Johannes's son Daniel (who is always living in the area of John in later years) .  The reason the family is configured this way is probably due to Johannes' wife Barbara dying. The story is told that she was stuck by a tree while hanging out the wash. This would explain why Christian's family is helping raise Johannes' family.]

1791 Rowan, NC Land: Deed Book 13 pg 108 Abstract 1843 pg 87 George Koons to John Sears for 90 "One hundred & twelve acres & five chains" on Reedy Crk adj James Chaney and James White; which was part of a 450 A patent date 9 Aug 1787 + no. 1498.Wit (?), Ack at Ct 9 Feb 1793Dec 1791 Book Abstracts of Deed Book 15-19 of Rowan County North Carolina 1797-1807 by James W. Kluttz Deed Book 13 (db pg 108) book pg 871843. p. 108. ... Dec 1791. #29 This indenture made this day of decr. in the year of our lord 1791 between George Koons of the County of Rowan & state of NC Carolina of the one part, and John Sears of the County & state aforesaid of the other part, Witnesseth that for & inconsideration of ninety pounds current money of said state to the said George Koons in hand paid by the said John Sears at & before the seeling & delivery of these presents (The receipt & payment Whereof is hereby acknowledged ) Hath granted bargarined sold aliened & enfeoffed conveyed & confirmed and by these presents doth grant bargain sell alien enfeoff convey & confirm unto the said John Sears his heirs and Assigns for ever a certain tract or parcel of land containing one hundred & twelve acres & five chains it being part of a tract of four hundred & fifty acres land situate lying & being on the waters of Reedy creek & in the county and state aforesaid & granted to him the said George Koons by pattent bearing date August the 9th 1787,--- & of the No. 1498, and bounded as follows (to wit) Begining at a post oak five chains west from James Chaneys corner runing thence East part along chanys line fifty chains to a Hicory thence south twenty two chains and fifty links to hickory grub Jas Whites corner thence along his line west fifty chains to a hicory crub thence North to the begining containing one hundred & twelve acres & five chains with the appurtinances situate lying & being as aforesaid with their & every of their rights members or appurtiances whatsoever & the reversion & reversions remainder & remainders of all & singular the said lands tenements & Premises hereby granted or intended to be granted & of every part or parcel thereof and all rents issues services services and profits to them or any part of parcel of them or any of them incident belonging or appertaining and also every the estate & estates Rights titles claims interstate & demands whatsoever of him the said George Koons into or out of the said tenements hereditaments & premises whatsoever hereby granted or intended to be granted or any of the or any part or parcel of them to have & to hold the lands tenements he reditaments & premises hereby granted with their appurtinances to the said John Sears his heirs & assigns to the only proper use and behoof of the said John Sears his heirs & assigns forever & the said George Koons for himself his heirs exers admrs doth hereby promise covenant & agree that he the said George Koons his heirs exers admrs Shall & will at all times warrant & for ever defend the said premises to the said John Sears his heirs & assigns against all lawful claims & demand whatsoever, Whereby the said premises might or may be affected or incumbred contrary-- to the true & meaning of these presents: In Witness whereof the said George Koons hath hereunto set his hand and seal the day & year first above written Signed Sealed and delivered ?? Stephen Farley and George Koons (seal) in the presence of State of N. Carolina. Rowan County. Ss. I do hereby certify that the within was duly acknowledged in open court by George Kontz & also recorded certified by me this 9th day of Feby 1793 Ad. Osborn C C.

1794 Rowan Co, NC Deed: Rowan Co., NC Book 13, page 802 John Sears, a blacksmith, lets Christian Sears both of Rowan Co., NC have 152 acres on Hamby creek next William Embler for 25 pds, witnessed by Adam Conrad and Moses Spiva and proved by latter in Nov. 1794

5 Oct 1796 Father Johann Zaher: Deed Book 16 pg 13 Rowan County, North Carolina Deed Records This indenture made this 5th day of October in the year of our Lord 1796between John Sears of the one part and Gottlieb Grimes of the second part both of the county of Rowan and State of North Carolina. witesseth that for & in consideration of the sum of one hundred &fifty pounds of current money of the state of aforesaid by the said Gottlieb Grimes to the said John Sears in hand paid the right whereof is hereby fully acknowledged by him the said John Sears hath given granted bargained & sold in open market & by the said presents doth give grant bargain & sell unto the said Gottlieb Grimes to his his and assigns a certian piece or parcel of land lying & being the County &state aforesaid On the waters of Hanbys Creek begining at a post oak on the west of ____ ____ land running thence West at Sixteen chains &crossing a branch at the __ four chains another thirty five chains in all to pine thence south fifty seven chains & fourteen links to a pine thence east thirty five chains to a black oak __ thence north to the beginning containing two hundred acres in the whole be the same more or less. To have and to hold the afore granted two hundred acres of land with the apperstinances & all rights and priviledges &improvements in wise belonging to the same Gottlieb Grimes his heirs Exrs assigns forever the said John Sears for himself his heirs & assignes doth hereby covenant & agree to with the said Gottlieb Grims that he the said Gottlieb Grams his heirs & assigns shall & may forever hereafter peacably & quietly have and hold ______ and enjoy the above granted lands & premises within the cost hinderance or Molistation of any heirs or persons whatsoever & give ___ __ from all and all manner or persons, incumberancy whatsoever and the said John Sears Doth oblidge himself his heirs Exects Adnr to warrant and ___the afore granted lands and premises to the said Gottlieb Grimes to his heirs Assigns forever against the claim of any person or person Whatsever. In witness when of the said John Sears have here unto set his hand and the day and year first above written. Signed Sealed delivered in presence of Bodehamer, Heinrich L___ A___R_____ State of North Caroline Rowan County 6th of Sep 1798. It is here by in Rowan County Certified that the written deed was proved as open court by the oath William Bodenhamer Eq or ___ to law ___ ___. (signed in German)Johannes Zaher or Zerr or Zehr? 
1798 dau Barbara Sears born at KY; married Adam (Swem) Hochstedler on 8 Mar 1821

4 Aug 1798 Rowan County deed from Christian Sears to a Moses Lambeth. Christian signed with a mark and ?Barbary his wife? signed with an X. This makes it clear at this time that Christian was married to a Barbara. Her last name is not known for sure but Stutzmann researchers believe it is Stutzmann, daughter of Jacob. During this period, incidentally, both John and Christian had land dealings with a Mark Shultz, a known Dunkard and probably the husband of their sister Barbara.  Deed - 4 August 1798 Rowan County deed from Christian Sears to a Moses Lambeth. Christian signed with a mark and ?Barbary his wife? signed with an X. This makes it clear at this time that Christian was married to a Barbara. Her last name is not known for sure but Stutzmann researchers believe it is Stutzmann, daughter of Jacob. During this period, incidentally, both John and Christian had land dealings with a Mark Shultz, a known Dunkard and probably the husband of their sister Barbara. - 1798 - Rowan Co., North Carolina

1800 Census, Salisbury, Rowan, NC-Christian Sears: Males 16-25=1; males 26-44=1; females 16-25=1 (doc)

1800 Father Johannes Zaher or Zerr died in Yadkin Valley, NC

1801 Muhlenberg Co, KY Tax List: John Sears (Johannes Zaher) in Muhlenberg Tax 3 Apr 1801 Not Chargable (this is probably due to age)

1802 Muhlenberg Co, KY Deed: John Sears purchased land in Muhlenberg 27 Sep 1802 John Sears this day claimed a right to four hundred acres of land on the waters of Green River agreeably to entry filed which is granted him accordingly. pg 263. This land was then given up on 28 Sep 1802. The following deed tells the information. Jacob Sears is signing this deed. Jacob Sears is in Bourbon County, Kentucky this same year by 16 December 1802 Deed Book No. 1 page 72 Sears to Graves Know all men by these presents that I John Sears of the State of Kentucky and County of Muhlenberg for divire consideration and good causes me hereunto moving have made +ordained constituted and appointed and by these precents do make and ordain constitute and appoint my trat and truety friend John Sanders Graves for net and in my name to make a deed (or assign over a certificate viz my headright of 400 acres lying on Green River obtained at the court of Muhlenberg in September 1801 to Philip Graves provided the said Graves shall pay the state price and other charges that may be here thereon and I do hereby ratify + confirm whatever my said attorney shall lawfully do or cause to be done me in about the premises about or concerning said land. In witness where of I have hereunto let my hand and affixed my seal this 28th of Sept 1802 Teste: Wm Wooton, Isaac Davis, Wm Roarke, Jacob Sears (his mark) (signed by) John Sears (his mark) seal Muhlenberg County Sct to the office March 21st 1803 This power of attorney was proved to be the act and deed of John Sears a party thereto by the oath of William Wooton William Roark, two of the subseribing Witnesses thereto and the same is truly recorded. Teste: C F Wing C C

1802 Muhlenberg Co, KY Land: Muhlenberg CO KY, Land Claims photocopied by Gayle R. Carver Indexed by Brenda Collier Doss V1 1801-1806 pg 94-95 John Sears entered four hundred acres of land and his certificate 338 granted by the county court of Muhlenberg at their September term 1802 and located as follows To Wit on the waters of Green River Beginning at a beech corner of Philip Graves two hundred and survey runing thence with the said line S50 W 126 poles to a beech Graves corner thence 127 W 4 poles to a hickory Hams corner then with said Hams line N70 E 88 poles to a beech Hams corner thence with said ine S20 E 204 poles to an ash and gum thence S75 E 32 poles to a whiteoak thence N75 E 120 poles to a beech and sugar tree and the bank of Green River thence down the river with the meander N5 W 80 poles & N5 E 40 poles N 20 860 poles and ? 110 poles & N 31 W 100 poles & N 75 W 100 poles to a beech on the bank of the river thence S 21 E 140 poles to the beginning Recorded October 3rd 1807.

1802 Christian F SEARS moved family to Jefferson/Oldham Co, KY [Although he apparently strayed from the Bretheran/Dunkard faith (he owned slaves in KY)]

21 Mar 1803 Father Johann Zaher: Muhlenberg County, Kentucky Deed Book 1 pg 72 Sears to Graves Know all men by these presents that I John Sears of the State of Kentucky and County of Muhlenberg for divire consideration and good causes me hereunto moving have made +ordained constituted and appointed and by these precents do make and ordain constitute and appoint my treat and truety friend John Sanders Graves for net and in my name to make a deed (or assign over a certificate viz my head right of 400 acres lying on Green River obtained at the court of Muhlenberg in September1801 to Philip Graves provided the said Graves shall pay the state price and other charges that may be here thereon and I do hereby ratify +confirm whatever my said attorney shall lawfully do or cause to be done me in about the premises about or concerning said land. In witness where of I have hereunto let my hand and affixed my seal this28th of Sept 1802 Teste Wm Wooton Isaac Davis Wm Roarke Jacob Sears(his mark) (signed) John Sears seal Muhlenberg County Scs Clks office March 21st 1803 This Power of attorney was proved to be the act and deed of John Sears a party thereto by the oathe of William Wooton &William Roark two of the subscribing witnesses thereto and the came is truly recorded Teste C F Wing CC 

21 Apr 1806 Christian sold land in Rowan, NC [Most of the Dunkard community that he knew moved to Kentucky by this time]

1802  Muhlenberg Co, KY Deed: "Muhlenberg County KY Deed Book 14 1849-1851" by Brenda Doss pg161-162 Deed Book 14 page pg 69-74 Commr to Ferguson being This indenture made & entered into this 27th day of June in the year of our Lord one thousand and eight hundred & forty four between Charles F Wing commisioner appointed under ? of the Muhlenberg circuit court at the March term 1844 in a suit in chanery where in Mary Ferguson widow a wife of Joshua Ferguson deceased Rachel Ferguson to James & Sarah his wife Armstrong Hale Julia his wife James W. Ferguson and Joshua Ferguson heirs and resprentatives of sd (said) Joshua Ferguson deceased are complainants and Philip Graves Jnr, Christan Sears- Shults & Barbara his wife late Sears, William Imbler & Francis his wife late Sears, Peevler & Esther his wife late Sears, Martin & Elizabeth his wife late Sears, Grigsby & Mary his wife late Sears, Jacob Harmon and Catherine his wife late Sears, White & Susan his wife late Sears, Samuel Sears, Daniel Sears, & Jacob Sears heirs & representatives of John Sears deceased are defendants witnisseth that by virtue of said decree which reads as follows to wit this day this cause came on to be heard upon the intertocutory? decree pronouced herein at the last term of this court ? appearing that said defendants mentioned in the amended bill filed herein have failed to make to the complainants to deed to the land mentioned in the original amended bill it is therefore decreed by the court that Charles F Wong be and he hereby appointed a commisioner to make conveyance of the land in the bill mentioned to the said complainants with D? clause of quit claim title to the premise Nout for & in consideration of the ? and by virture of the power vested in the said commisioner the said Wing commisoiner as aforesaid doth hereby convey unto the complaint above named the parties of the first part the following tract or parcel of land lying & being in the county of Muhlenberg on Green River containing by patent bearing date the 23rd day of March 1832 Four hundered acres said bounded as follows to wit Beginning at a beech Philip Graves corner running with his line South 55 west 126 poles to his corner a beech thence south 27 west four poles to a hickory Hams corner thence with Barsheba Hams line N 70E 88 poles to a gum & hickoary Thos Porters corner thence S75E32 poles to a white oak thence N75 East 12 Poles to two sugar trees a beech on the bank of Green River-Porters corner thence down the River with it meanders North five west 80 poles N 584 Poles N 20 E 6 poles North 100 poles N 31 West 100 poles thence N 75W 100 poles to a beech on the Bank of the River thence South 21West one hundred and eighty poles to the Beginning with all & singular the premises & appertenances thereunto belonging as in day ? appertaining unto the said parties of the first part their Heirs & to have and to hold the said to wit a parcel of land against the heirs of the said John Sears deceased & the said Philip Graves Jnr their heirs & and against the claim of all an every persons claiming under them do and of them on their heirs but not against the claim of any other persons do this conveyance is duly intended to be a quit claim title In testimony where of the heirs of the said John Sears deceased and Philip Graves Jnr by Charles F Wing Commissioner herein ordered have hereunto set their hands & seals the day of date within written Christian Sears (seal) Philip Graves Jr (seal) Shults (seal) Barbara Shults (seal) William Imbler (seal) Francis Imbler (seal) Peevler (seal) Esther Peevler (seal) --- Martin (seal) Elizabeth Martin (seal) Grigsby (seal) Mary Grigsby (seal) Jacob Harmon (seal) Catherine Harmon (seal) White (seal) Susannah White (seal) Samuel Sears (seal) Daniel Sears (seal) Jacob Sears (seal) C F Wing Commissioner (seal) Muhlenberg Circuit Ct September Term 1844 The foregoing Indenture from C F Wing commissioner for Sears Heirs & others to Joshua Ferguson Heirs were exhibited into court & acknowledged by the commissioner there in to be his act & deed which is thereupon ordered to be certified to the clerk of the court for record. C F Wing clk Muhlenberg Court ses. Clerks office March 10 1845. The foregoing indenture for on C F Wing commissioner for Sears Heirs to Joshua Ferguson Heirs we do produce said to me in my office which together with tertimony indexed to admitted to & truly recorded-given under my hand the day & date above C F Wing clk Ferguson to Ferguson Know all men by there presents that a Joshua Ferguson of the county of Pope in the State of Arkansas do by there presents hereby ? make constitute and appoint James W Ferguson of the Cith of New Orleans in the State of Louisiana my true and lawful attorney for me in my name to sell all right to the claim and intersed ? in and to certain hands lying an being in the county of Muhlenberg in the State of Kentucky which descended to me as one of the heirs it ? of Joshua Ferguson deceased and for me and in my name to receive the money assign from the sale of the same and to convey the same to the purchaser thereof by deed in fee simple or otherwise and to do & perform all things nessecary to effect the sale and transfer thereof the same as if I was my self personally present and ? to the same hereby notifying and confirming all and every lawful act my said attorney may do and perform in and about the said premises. In testimony whereof I the said Joshua Ferguson have here unto set my hand and affixed by seal at Dover Pope county Arkansas this sixteenth day of September in the year of our lord one thousand eight hundred and forty five. Joshua Ferguson (seal) State of Arkansas County of Pope sct Be it remembered that on this sixteenth day of September A. D. 1845 personally appeared before me Richard C S Brown Judge of the seventh judicial circuit within and for the state of Arkansas of which the county of Pope is part Joshua Ferguson whose name appears to the within & foregoing power of attorney & who is to me personally know and of lawful age and acknowledged that he signed ? and executed the foregoing power of attorney of his own fall will and decord and for the purposes therein contained the set forth. R C S Brown Judge of the seventh judicial circuit within & for the State of Arkansas State of Arkansas County of Pope John R Scott Clerk of the Circuit court within & for the county of Pope in the State of Arkansas do hereby certify that Richard C S Brown whose name appears to the foregoing certificate of acknowledgement is & ? at the time of signing the same duly elected commissioner and presiding judge of the seventh judicial circuit within & for the state of Arkansas of which the county of Pope is a part and that full faith and credit should be given to all his official acts as such & that the signature to said certificate purporting to be his genuine -- In testimony where of I John R H Scott have hereunto set my hand as clerk as aforesaid and affixed the seal of said court at office in Dover this 16th day of September AD 1845 Jno R Homer Scott Clerk State of Arkansas County of Pope Richard C. S. Brown Judge of the seventh judicial circuit within and for the State of Arkansas of which the county of Pope is a part do hereby certify that John R. H Scott whose name appears to the foregoing certificate is & was at the time of signing the same clerk of the circuit court within and for the county of Pope in the state aforesaid that the signature purporting to be his is genuine & that his administration is on due form of law & that full faith & credit should be given to all his affixed act as such clerk given under my hand at Dover Pope County Arkansas this 16th day of September A. D. 1845 R. C. S. Brown Judge of the 7th judicial circuit within and for the state of Arkansas Commonwealth of Kentucky Muhlenberg County sct Charles F Wing clerk of the county court for the county aforesaid certify that this and power of attorney from Joshua Ferguson to James W Ferguson was on this day produced to me in my office which together with the testimonies there on is admitted to a truly recorded-given under my hand this 17 day of September 1849 John Wong Clk Hale to Ferguson Know all men by these presents that Mr. Armstrong Hale & Julia Hale his wife of the town of Brandenberg County of Mead & State of Kentucky for diverse good causes and consideration have this day and by these presents to nominate constitute & appoint James A. Ferguson as present is present residing in the city of New Orleans our agent and attorney in fact to sell and convey to any person or persons for the best prices that can be obtained our entire interest & claim in and to a certain tract or parcel of land lying on Green River in Muhlenberg County & State of Kentucky near Benton's Ferry containing about 400 acres more or less adjoining the land of Isaac Davis one interest in said tract being two undivided fifths one fifth decended to the said Julia Hale at the death of her Father Joshua Ferguson decd and the other fifth decended to the said Julia by Rachel Ferguson decd who was also one of the children & her is of said Joshua Ferguson decd which tract of land was conveyed to the said Joshua by one Philip Graves our said agent & attorney in fact is authorized to sell on such terms as he may think best and to execute any bound ordered of conveyance that may be necessary to complete such ? when made and to receive & receipt for the purchase money hereby ratifying and conforming all that our said attorney may lawfully do in the premises given under our hands this 24th day of September 1847 Witness Jas L Fairleigh; Armstrong Hale; Julia Hale Commonwealth of Kentucky Meade County to Wit J. William Fairleigh Clerk of the County court for the county aforesaid certify that on this day the power of attorney from Armstrong Hale and Julia his wife to James W Ferguson and produced to me and acknowledged by the said Armstrong Hale and Julia Hale to be their act & deed for purposes therein mentioned all of which is hereby certified to the proper office for record- given under my hand ? Brandenburg the 24th day of September 1847 Wm Fairleigh Clerk Jas L Fairleigh DC Commonwealth of Kentucky Muhlenberg Count ses. I Charles F Wing Clerk of the county court for the county aforesaid certify that the foregoing Power of Attorney for Armstrong Hale & Julia his wife to James W Ferguson ? on this day produced to me in my office which together with the certificate of the clerk of Mead county court the thereon in ? & admitted to & truly recorded-Given unto my hand this 11th day of September 1849 John Wing Clk Ferguson II David D D to R Jones Jun 8, 1850 This indenture made and entered into this 11th day of September in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred & forty nine between James W Ferguson for him and as attorney in fact for Joshua Ferguson Armstrong Hale & Julia his wife late Ferguson heirs of Joshua Ferguson decd of the first part and Aron W Davis of the second part Witnesseth that by virtue of a decree of the Muhlenberg Circuit court pronounced at the March term 1844 and ? in chancery wherein Joshua Ferguson Heirs and complainants and John Sears heirs & others were defendants to certain tract of land lying in the county of Muhlenberg on Green River containing about four hundred acres was decreed to the complainants and a commissioner appointed to make conveyance there of to the complainants heirs of Joshua Ferguson deceased which deed of conveyance is ? recorded in the clerk office of the Muhlenberg county court to wit for & in consideration of the premises aforesaid & for & inconsideration of the sum of eight hundred dollars to him paid the receipt of which is hereby acknowledged the said James W Ferguson for him self and as attorney in fact for the said Joshua Ferguson Armstrong Hale & Julia his wife later Ferguson the said Hale & wife being the owners by devise of the ? of Rachel Ferguson deceased one of said heirs in & to said tract of land which interest is one fifth of the whole there of hath granted bargained and sold & conveyed and by their presents doth sell & ? & convey unto the said Aron W Davis & his heirs forever all the undivided right to the interest & claim which the said James Ferguson Joshua Ferguson Armstrong Hale & Julia his wife have in & to said tract of land together right the interest of the said Hale & wife do devised of Rachel Ferguson deceased which is two fifth which said tract of land is bounded as follows to wit: Beginning with ? Philip Graves corner running with his line south 50 West 26 poles to his corner a beech thence south 27 West four poles to a Hickory Hams corner thence with Bathsheba Hams line 70 east 88 poles to his corner line Beechs and Hickory thence S 20 82 poles to a gum & hickory. Tho Porter's corner thence down the river with its meanders North five West 80 poles N 5 E 40 poles North 20 East 60 poles North 100 poles S 31 West 100 poles thence N 75 west 100 poles to a beech in the bank of the River thence South 21 West one hundred & eighty poles to the beginning containing four hundred acres as aforesaid to have & to hold the undivided interest aforesaid together with all & singular the premises & appurtenances and the said Aron W Davis & his heirs forever and the said Jame W Ferguson for himself and as attorney in fact as aforesaid doth covenant and agree to warrant and defend the title to the undivided interest aforesaid & against the claim of himself his heirs & ? against the claim of Heirs of Joshua Ferguson deceased & against the claim or claims of all & every other person or persons whatever shall and will forever warrant and defend by these presents In Witness whereof the said James W Ferguson for himself & as attorney in fact for the said Joshua Ferguson Armstrong Hale & Julia his wife hath hereunto set his hand & affixed his seal the day and year within written J. W. Ferguson Joseph Ferguson Armstron Hale Julia Hale By Jame W. Ferguson The Attorney in fact Commonwealth of Kentucky Muhlenberg County Ses. I Charles F Wing clerk of the county for the county aforesaid certify that this deed from James Ferguson & others heirs of Joshua Ferguson deceased to Aron W Davis was on this day produced to me in my office & acknowledged by the said James W Ferguson for himself and as attorney in fact for Joshua Ferguson Armstrong Hale & Julia his wife parties thereto to be his act and deed for the purposes therein mentioned whereupon said deed together with this Certificate.

25 Aug 1807 Christian is listed on the tax list of Jefferson Co, KY [He moved to the Harrod's Creek area of Jefferson County, Kentucky which is now Oldham County.  Kentucky at this time allowed slaves and so Christian remained on the Kentucky side of the river while his in-laws were in Indiana in Clark County across the river. They attended the Dunkard church at Olive Branch. We find no evidence Christian was attending church.] [He was a good businessman with horse ranching and other farming pursues and built a nice home in Oldham County, Kentucky.]

1808 son Daniel Sears born; moved to Harrison Co, IN

nd dau Susan Sears born; married _____ White??

1810 Census, Louisville, Jefferson, KY-Christian Scara: Males 16-25=1; males 45+=1; females 10-15=1; females 16-25=1; females 45+=1; slaves=2 (doc)

1813 Hannah DAWKINS born at Oldham, KY [father=William; Oldham County 1823 - 1851 Marriages

7 Aug 1820 Census, Jefferson, KY-Christian Sears: Males 45_=1; females 45+=1; slaves male <14=2; slaves male 26-44=1; slaves females <14=1; slaves female 26-44=1; engaged in agriculture=1 (doc)

1830 Census, Oldham, KY- Christian Sharr: Males 80-89=1; females 80-89=1; slaves male <10=2; slaves male 10-23=1; slaves male 36-54=1; slaves female <10=2; slaves female 10-23=1; slaves female 36-54=1 (doc)

1834 Catherine Barbara STUTZMAN died at Oldham, KY [tragically killed when the limb of a great tree fell on her while she was washing clothes: The History of Decatur County Garber Family]

19 Sep 1834 Christian F SEARS and Hannah DAWKINS married at Oldham, KY (no children) [When he was almost 100 years old they went to visit his children in Washington County, Indiana; Their Grandson saw them get into a fight over who lost their smoking pipe, which they shared.  One of them lost it in the Orchard while strolling there.] [Oldham County 1823 - 1851 Marriages confirms date of marriage and father’s name]

1840 Census, Oldham, KY- Christ Secars (age 98): Males 90-99=1; females 40-49=1; Slaves male <10=1; Slaves male 10-23=1; Slaves male 24-35=1; Slaves male 55-99=1; Slaves female <10=3; Slaves female 10-23=5; Slaves female 24-35=2; Slaves female 44-99=1; employed in agriculture=4 (doc)

22 Jun 1843 Christian F SEARS wrote his will [21 Aug 1843 Oldham Co., KY]

19 Sep 1843 Christian F SEARS died at Oldham, KY [after Christian died in 1843, his farm was sold and the proceeds distributed to the heirs. Each of the heirs signed the probate documents, accepting the awards in the counties of residence in October and November of 1847. John and Nancy Sears appeared before Samuel Cormely, Probate justice of Edgar County, Illinois and signed (Nancy with her "X") on 10 September 1847.Likewise, Jacob and Mary Sears of Sangamon County on 2 October 1847(Jacob signed his name, Mary made her 'X'). Also, on 20 October1847, Emanuel Zink and Delilia" (sic) Zink of Edgar County, Illinois, received a portion of the Christian Sears estate, Delilia being a daughter of Mary Sears Wright. (Delilah Wright, born 10February, 1809in Washington County, Illinois, married Emanuel Zink September, 1827) Likewise the probated documentation of Jefferson County Iowa do, therefore, have the identification and location of Christian's children or heirs in 1840. Sarah Sears Shires had died about 1842] [Although they have never found the tombstone, it is reported by story handed down to Christian's direct relatives that he is buried on his farm in what is now Oldham County, Kentucky. (one source says 7 Sep 1843 for his death in Oldham County, Kentucky)] [FindAGrave says 7 Sep 1843; 2nd on says Aug 1843 and lists Barbara as wife and Johannes Zaher as father; David Sears as son]

1850 US Federal Census Mortality Schedule Index, Lawrence Co, IN-Hannah Dawkins listed as age 45; born in KY; no occupation listed; cause of death paralasis ID#197_293870

Sep 1850 Hannah DAWKINS died at Lawrence Co, IN
Christian Sears will 22 Jun 1843:  Christian Sears, considering the uncertainty of this natural life, and being of sound mind and memory, blessed by Almighty God for the same, do make and publish this my last will and testament in manner and form following; to wit: First, I give and bequeath unto my beloved wife, Hannah R. Sears, two negroes, Henry age 14 years, and Betsy age 11years, to have and to hold the same during her natural life, after her decease the same to be free, provided, however, the same negroes, Henry and Betsey, if all have arrived at the age of twenty-one years, should they be under that age it is my will that they be hired out by my executors until they shall have arrived at that age. Also I will and bequeath unto my beloved wife one negro girl named Cleo, age eleven years, to have and hold the same forever. Also one horse and one side saddle, one silver watch, one bed and furniture, one bureau, and end dressing table, and also the third part of the money derived out of the disposition of my estate hereafter to be named: Also I will and ordain that the executors of this my last will and testament shall with all convenient speed after my decease proceed to sell to the highest bidder on credit of one year and two years, the farm with all the appurtenances, on which I now live, consisting of one hundred acres fee simple, for the doing and executing whereof I do by these presents give to my said executors full power and authority to bargain and sell and convey the same to any person or persons, their heirs and assigns forever in fee simple. Also it is my will that Riley, Jerry and Thomas, and male slaves that may be born after this date in my family be hired out unti each of them shall have earned four hundred dollars, also that slaves Sallie and Margaret and female slaves that may be born in my family after this date, be hired out until each of them shall have earned two hundred dollars. After the above-named slaves shall have earned by their hire the above-mentioned sums, my Executors are authorized to set them free. Also that Lucy be free at the age of twenty-one years. It is also my will that Lewis, Betsy, and Mary be free at my decease. All the rest and residue of my personal estate not here indisposed of to be sold to the highest bidder, on credit for twelve months. The several sums arising from the sale of my land, the hire of my negroes, and sale of my personal estate(debts due and cash on hand, after paying my just debts) be divided equally among my six children or their heirs or assigns, after deducting from each of the several sums that each of them have received from my estate and applied to their own use and benefit the sums annexed to each of their names are the sums received by each, Vis: To Polly Wright, one hundred and thirty-one dollars; Sarah Shires, one hundred fifty-five dollars; Betsy Wright, one hundred dollars; Jacob Sears, two hundred and sixty dollars; David Sears, two hundred ten dollars; John Sears, two hundred dollars. And I do hereby appoint my friend Jonathon Hardin of Oldham Co., KY, and Philbert Wright, my son-in-law of the State of Indiana, my executors of this my last will and testament. In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal, the 22nd day of June, in the year of Our Lord, 1840.CHRISTIAN F. SEARS (seal) The above instrument of one sheet was here subscribed by Christian Sears, the testator, in the presence of each of us and was at the same time declared to be his last will and testament, and we, as attesting witnesses, sign our names hereto. Jno. S. Milton of Oldham Co., KY; Johnson Dawkins of Oldham Co., KY."