Captain General Edward Cornwallis Letters to the Lords of Trade and Plantations.

Letters to the Lords of Trade and Plantations from Edward Cornwallis, the new Governor of Nova Scotia. In this, the first one, he reports that the voyage started well, but the ships ran into "contrary winds" after eight days and the remainder of the trip was slow and difficult. They arrived at Chebucto Bay on 21 June 1749.

His first report was dated 22 June, 1749. It was received in London 15 August, 1749. The transports with the settlers followed in a few days.

The coastline was completely forested, except for some clearing by the French settlers for their cattle. The harbor, which everyone agreed was the finest they had ever seen, was also filled with fish.

After a month, Cornwallis was as enthusiastic as ever about the new colony's potential, but not of the majority of the settlers who had come out from England.
On 24 July, he wrote of some problems. This letter was received in London 28 August 1749.

"I beg leave to observe to your Lordships that amongst these the number of industrious active men proper to undertake and carry on a new Settlement is very small, of Soldiers there is only 100, of Tradesmen, Sailors, and others able and willing to work not above 200 more. The rest are poor idle worthless vagabonds that embraced the opportunity to get provisions for one year without labour, or Sailors that only wanted a passage to New England.

Worse, said Cornwallis, some of the settlers came to Nova Scotia "as into a Hospital, to be cured". Many had venereal diseases. But he was not going to let the idle and foolish hinder the industrious and wise. He issued a proclamation that if the settlers didn't shape up or went AWOL he would expel them from the colony to fend for themselves. He did as threatened. Eight men who had gone off in canoes on their own were driven from the colony and stricken from the mess books. No small punishment in such a harsh new land with hostile Indians and French. But it had a salutary effect on the other settlers. There were others, however, who were singled out for praise by the governor, " There are among the Settlers," he said, "a few Swiss who are regular honest industrious Men easily governed and work heartily."

And there was yet another group who impressed this Son of the British aristocracy. "There are indeed many come over of the better sort who tho' they do not work themselves, are very useful in managing the rest."

By the end of August, the first capital crime had been committed, "murther." (murder)
followed almost immediately by the first hanging.

On 11 September, 1749, Col. Cornwallis wrote of the threat posed by the Indians, in particular the Micmacs, who were being incited to make war on the English by the French Priest/missionaries. On 19 August 20 Englishmen were taken prisoner, including 5 of the settlers. The others had come up by ship from Boston in order to cut hay.

A palisade was built around the new town, a double row of 10 foot poles, six inches thick. As the trees were cleared they were used for the fencing.

The major issue was the sizable number of French remaining in Nova Scotia after its cession to the British. All of them were Catholics who were now obliged to swear an oath of allegiance to the Protestant British King.

By August, Cornwallis was giving Halifax as the return address.

In October, he wrote of many transgressions by the Indians, including deaths at their hands. But the settlers had successfully fended off the attacks.

Cornwallis had no illusions about the French and their designs on North America.
He warned correctly, that they would not give up easily. " The settlement I am sent to make is sore to France, it touches them to the quick."

Finally, on 1 October 1749, the council unofficially declared war on the Micmac Indians. The English declined a formal declaration, which would tacitly admit that the Micmacs were "a free and independent people" worthy of being treated to diplomatic niceties, whereas, in reality, "they ought to be treated as do many Banditti Ruffians, or Rebels to His Majesty's Government."

Raiding parties were to be sent out and a bounty of 10 guineas was to be paid for every Micmac killed or captured.

Religion, as always, was the issue. The Society for the Propagation of the Gospel suggested sending out French Bibles and a large group of French Protestants to counter the effect of the "bigoted Papists."

The Indians, religion aside, were indeed a constant threat.

On 1 May 1750 Cornwallis wrote that the French and Indians had moved against the settlements and occupied all of Nova Scotia on the west side of the Bay of Fundy. The letter was an urgent appeal for help. While there was peace in Europe, in Nova Scotia the war continued.

He realized early on the machinations of the French and their Indian allies and did not hesitate to warn the Board of Trade in England what would happen if they did not respond to the problem in this the most Northern of the Colonies.

Particularly galling to the new settlers was the continuing trade by the lower colonies with the French and Indians. Cornwallis complained much about the people of Massachusetts Bay who were supplying the French and Indians with goods and arms, which enabled them to make war on his settlers.

Cornwallis, had turned over his regiment in the Highlands to a Major James Wolf, who would distinguish himself in Nova Scotia later on. Horace Walpole speaks of Cornwallis as "a brave sensible young man of great temper and good nature" a perfect picture of the man, and Wolfe afterwards mentioned Cornwallis' "approved courage and fidelity".

More than this, Cornwallis was incorruptible, a very rare quality in Colonial Governors of his time. He was slender, somewhat over middle height, an aristocrat to his fingertips, conscious of his dignity and inclined to be cool and ceremonious except when the "great temper" took charge. We are told he had a pleasant voice, fine eyes, and a winning expression. Later on his voice acquired a rasp, and so did his pen, as troubles mounted and the harsh winters of the new colony destroyed his health.

His Aide and right-hand man was a young army bachelor like himself, Richard Bulkeley, tall, handsome, Irish, wealthy, a former king's messenger and captain of dragoons whose equipment for the wilderness included a valet, groom, a butler, three blood horses and a vast amount of baggage. Another aide was Captain Horatio Gates son of the Duke of Leeds on the wrong side of the blanket, a capable young officer who in later years was to make his name famous on the wrong side of the field in the American Revolution.

Ref: Warden of the North: Raddell.

Kew/Public Record Office Colonial Office 217 Piece 9

Michael Samuel DeBruhl New York Engraver 1759-1763

These notes from the Iconography of Manhattan Island:

Among those who are taking subscriptions for "the Gentlemen and Ladies Military Closet Furniture" is Mr. Michael DeBruhl (DeBruls,) Engraver, at Mr. Futer's Silver-Smith, in French-Church Street" N.Y. Mercantile, March 5, 1759. Between 1759 and 1763, DeBruhl was the chief engraver on copper in New York, Stauffer, American Engravers on Copper and Steel, I 31-33, For advertisements of his work, see May 3 and October 11, 1762, the latter having reference to proposed views of New York

Plans of several of the sites of engagements between the French and English forces
near Fort Niagara, are advertised as "curiously engraved on two large Copper Plates, by Michael DeBruhl, Engraver, and an Inhabitant of this City." DeBruhl himself, is taking subscriptions for these "in the Road beyond the New Goal (Jail), on the Hill, where the above engraved Plates may be seen." N.Y. Mercantile, May 3, 1762. For DeBruhl's proposed views of New York City, see Oct, 11.

Chronology: The English Period 1664- 1763

Michael DeBruhl (deBruls) solicits subscriptions for "Two different Water Views and two different Land Views" of New York City which he proposes to publish. These views will have "References in English, High Dutch and Low Dutch," and are to be "curiously engraved on a Copper Plate, of 21 by 12 Inches each, and printed on best large Paper." There will also be "neatly engraved on another Copper Plate" a plan of the streets" with their respective Names," Along with the prints will be published a pamphlet giving " an exact account of the wholesome climate, pleasant situation, products, etc, of this Province, for the benefit of the Subscribers, which they may chuse either in English, High Dutch, or Low Dutch,"
The subscription price is stated as 20 shillings, One Half to be paid on subscribing, the other Half on the Delivery of these Five Prints." Each Subscriber will "give his Quality and Place of Abode," and subscriptions "will closed on the last Day of January next." DeBruhl's establishment was "at the lower End of New Street, Next door to Colonel Thodey." N.Y. Post-Boy Oct. 11, 1762. In the Expense Account Book
(M.S.) of Cadwallader Colden (preserved in N.Y. Historical Society), under date of October 31, 1763, appaers this item: " paid DeBruhl on Subscribing for 2 Setts of his Plans of New York. L 1:4:0 Da Baumitiere, in his notes on maps, etc.(book 1412 Y, Ridgeway Branch, Library Co. of Philadelphia.) speaks of these views as follows(translated):
"DeBruhl (DeBruyl), a German and good workman but a Mauvais Sujet. undertook in 1763 to engrave some views of New York which he had drawn himself. I saw there (in New York) in that year the plates which had been commenced. He took up a subscription, by the terms of which he was to receive half of the sum ($100) at the time of the subscription, but he kept the money and never finished the work."

Michael Samuel DeBruhl Jr. Silversmith and watchmaker.1806

Michael Samuel DeBruhl Jr. listed in 1806 as doing business at 35 Union Street Charleston, SC
from 1798-1806 . Moved possibly to Abbeville, SC Partnership with Mary Matilda Dunseeth as Dunseeth & DeBruhl dissolved in 1804. Silversmith watch and clock makers of South Carolina. Examples of his work is in the Charleston, SC museum. ( a silver ladle, and chatelain)

The DeBruhl Marshall House 1820

A two story brick building constructed in 1820 by Jesse DeBruhl a low country planter and broker, now the DeBruhl Marshall House, was designed, it is believed by Robert Mills, the architect who is responsible for many famous buildings in South Carolina and throughout the nation. His most famous work was the Washington Monument. This house was for many years the home of the late Col. J.Q. Marshall grandson of Jesse DeBruhl, and subsequently his daughter Mrs. James Hammond. It was in the possession of Mrs. Rhodes as of 1973 who is credited with saving the house from destruction by developers. In later years the house was placed on the National Registry of Historic Places through the efforts of Norman DeBruhl and Josephine Parker DeBruhl and the late Senator Strom Thurmond. It is situated on the northeast corner of Laurel and Marion Streets and is one of the most imposing residences in the City of Columbia. The wide spacious piazza does not extend the entire length of the house as it did in many of the houses of that date, but it's massive Doric columns that reach to the gabled roof lend an air of dignity to this old brick mansion. An artistic fan shaped transom above the large front doorway furnishes ample light for the wide hall running the entire length of the house. Unlike the houses of that period, the staircase was hidden from view, being concealed in a small back room, known as the staircase room, but of late years this staircase has been removed and one is now to be seen in the rear end of the hall. The halls, both upstairs and down, are flanked on both sides by two big square rooms, with high ceilings and deeply recessed windows. It was in this home that the Confederate General Joseph E. Johnstone, made his headquarters in 1864-1865. When it was vacated by Johnstone, it seemed good to General Sherman's soldiers as fuel for their extensive conflagration and was about to be set in flames when Mrs. John S. Wiley, Jesse DeBruhls widow who was a very young and beautiful woman, appealed directly to General Sherman, whose headquarters were located directly behind the house on the next street. She begged that her home be spared, the soldiers heart softened and he ordered that guards be placed around the house. Thus we have left today one of the most artistic productions of the nineteenth century. The roof rafters still show char marks where Union soldiers tried to start a fire in the attic.



South Carolina Historical Society

Professor Yates Snowden, says that it was from the porches of the Moore House 1409 Gervais Street that he as a little boy watched the progress of Sherman's Army as it marched down Gervais Street in February, 1865. At the head of Main Street not a building was left on that street, everything was burned for one and a half miles and in a belt from a quarter to a half mile wide eighty four squares containing three hundred and sixty six acres and thirteen hundred houses were destroyed. General Sherman was seen riding leisurely through the streets smoking a cigar but he gave no orders and seemed to take little interest in what was going on.
Ref. Great Houses of SC Scribners rare book section.

Goddard DeBruhl drowns 1791

State of Georgia Richmond County, Personally appeared before me William Firhard who being duly sworn saith that he was personally present and well acquainted with Godard DeBruhl and that some time in February in the year one thousand seven hundred and ninety one,(1791) he and the said Godard DeBruhl was on board a boat bound for Savannah Georgia, belonging to James Henderson about five miles before the Town of Augusta and the boat got fastened in the River. And that some time in the night the said Godard DeBruhl went on Deck for some occasion and fell overboard and got drowned and further this deponent saith that he and the rest of the boat hands got a dingy and searched for the said Godard DeBruhl but could not find him. But he understood and believes that the said Godard DeBruhl was taken under some considerable time afterwards, further this deponent saith not. William Firhard sworn to before me this 22nd day of January 1795. Samuel Jack JP

Michael Samuel DeBruhl New York Engraver December 19, 1757

Michael Samuel DeBruhl-- By the advice and encouragement of several Gentlemen of this City, is published by subscription, and curiously engraved on two large Copper Plates, by Michael DeBruhl, Engraver and Inhabitant of this City, A plan of the Landing, Encampment and Attack against Fort Niagara, on Lake Ontario, reduced with the adjacent Country, by his Majesty's Forces under the Command of Sir William Johnson, Baronet; the Place of Engagement where the French Reinforcement was defeated. Also a Plan of Fort Niagara, on a large Scale, showing it's advantageous Situation and Harbour, it's extraordinary Strength, fortified both by Art and Nature, with the required References, the whole laid down by an experienced Engineer.
Conditions of Subscription,

1. This Plan, with Part of Lake Ontario, and the opposite Shore, over that River, which proceeds from over Niagara Falls, into said Lake, is beautifully engraved on two large Copper Plates, as above mentioned, and almost ready for Printing; they are to be printed on the largest and best Paper, said Work will form a handsome print of two feet eleven inches, by one foot one inch, exclusive of the margin.
2. Each Subscriber is desired to give in his Name and place of abode.
3. This plan shall be delivered on or before the last Day of June next ensuing, to the several Subscribers at their Places of Abode, at Eight Shillings, New York Currency, one half to be paid on subscribing, the other half on delivery of the plans.
4. The Subscription will be closed on the 26th of June next, after which none will be sold for less than 16 Shillings New York Currency, each Plan.
To deliver these Plans immediately after being printed, notice shall be given by the New York News Papers on and from the 28th of June next ensuing.
Subscriptions are taken in by Messrs. Parker and Company, Mr. W Weyman, and Samuel Farley, Printers in New York, also by Michael Samuel DeBruhl Engraver of the above Plan, in the Road beyond the New Goal on the Hill, where the above engraved Plates may be seen.
Such Gentlemen and others, as shall please to encourage this Undertaking will great oblige their most obedient and obliging Servant, Michael Samuel DeBruhl.
The American Chronicle, April 19, 1762.

Michael DeBruhl-- For publishing by Subscription, two different water views, and two different land views, of this flourishing city of New York. The editor and engraver, has taken great pains, and been very exact in laying down these four beautiful prospects, with which the city presents itself to the eye of every judicious beholder. He hopes to meet with encouragement from all Gentlemen and Ladies,
and especially, as nothing of this Kind ever has been undertaken before by anybody
in this part of the world.
1. These above mentioned four different views, with the respective references, in English, High Dutch and Low Dutch, will be curiously engraved on a copper plate, of 21 by 12 inches each, and printed on best large paper.
2. A plan of the street, of this city, with their respective names, will also be neatly engraved on another copper plate, and printed on best large paper.
Subscriptions are taken in by W.Weyman, Printer in Broad Street, Hugh Gaine, in Hanover Square, John Holt at Burling,s Slip, and Michael Samuel DeBruhl, Publisher and Engraver of the above plates, at the lower end of New Street, next door to Col. Thody.
The New York Gazette, March 7, 1763

Michael Samuel DeBruhl Curious Chasing or other Raised Work, in general on Gold and Silver Watch Cases, Snuff Boxes, and Engraving, Crests and Coats of Arms, and on Gold, Silver and Copperplate; Also, Engraving of Seals on Gold, Silver or Steel Done. By Michael Samuel DeBruhl, at the House of Mr. Frederick Beckers, in Maiden Lane, near the Fly Market. N.B. He also doth draw Plans of Fortifications.
The New York Gazette or the Weekly Post Boy December 19, 1757.

Judge Samuel Spencer to Governor Caswell 1777

From the Executive Letter Book Halifax, 1st of June, 1777.

Sir,
Enclosed herewith are sundry depositions of Edward Cornwallis DeBruhl, now detained in Halifax gaol (jail) on suspicion of having been concerned in counterfeiting the current Bills of Credit of this State, taken before me on oath with the greatest secrecy that the nature of the matter would admit of. His offence was committed in the District of Halifax. It was likewise committed between the third day of April and the ninth of May last, and the Resolve of Congress against counterfeiting, was continued by last Congress to last session of Assemble, and no longer, and the act for continuing the same Resolve was ratified the 9th of May following. This, according to the rule formerly pursued of making the business of the whole session refer to the first day thereof, might, by a fiction of the Law against the real fact, have prevented any chasm: but according to our present constitution of admitting no retrospective Law to operate, might have been the subject of some doubt. But to waive this point, I understood that DeBruhl would make some very ample discoveries of several companies concerned in counterfeiting the Bills of this State, and passing the same counterfeit money. I therefore had him brought to my room, and after passing my word to him, that if he would make a true and faithful discovery of his accomplices and others he might know to have been concerned in counterfeiting the said Bills and passing the same, I would use my interest and endeavor to obtain him indemnity for what he had done.

Marriage of Michael Samuel DeBruhl and Margaret Pring 15 December 1745

Marriage of Michael Samuel DeBruhl to Margaret Pring. The marriage took place in the London parish of St. Katherine Coleman. The register is held by the Guildhall Library, London, but it is not possible to obtain copies. The full entry is as follows: " 15th December 1745, Michael Samuel DeBruhl of the parish of St. Andrews, Holborn in the County of Middlesex, Bachelor and Margaret Pring of this parish, Spinster, by Licence".

Baptism of Margaret DeBruhl daughter of Michael and Margaret DeBruhl at St. Andrews, Holborn on 30th January 1749.

Baptism of Godard DeBruhl not found in this parish.

Source:

D.W. Benson researcher dated 1980
For Dr.Brank DeBruhl Middletown, IN.

Michael Samuel DeBruhl Halifax 1749 Planters & Pioneers

Michael Samuel DeBruhl Halifax 1749 former Private Gentleman 3rd Troop Royal Horse Guards Retired. Ship Canning, m 1 boy, 1 male, 1 female servant. m.
Margaret Ch: Edward, Michael Samuel, Phillipina Margareta, Lucy Elizabeth

Reference: Planters & Pioneers

Will of Patience DeBruhl 1838

In the name of God, Amen. I Patience DeBruhl of South Carolina Kershaw District, being of sound mind and memoriam, but weak in body, and calling to mind the uncertainty of life, and being desirous to dispose of all such worldly estate as it hath pleased God to bless me with, do make and ordain this my last will and in manner and form following that is to say, I desire that all my stock and furniture and farming utensil's be sold immediately after my decease, and out of the monies arising there from, all my just debts and funeral expenses be paid, after payment of my debts and funeral expenses. I give to my Grandson Edward DeBruhl son of Michael DeBruhl, a Negro boy called Phil, to him and to his heirs forever. I give to my Grand DAughter Louisa DeBruhl a Mulatto Girl called Hester, to her and the heirs of her body. I give to Ann Danzey, Wife of John Danzey one Negro Woman named Claracy, to her and the heirs of her body forever. I give to my Grand Son George Danzey a Mullato Boy called Primus to him and the heirs of his body forever. I give to my, Grand Daughter Elizabeth Danzey on feather bed and furniture to her and her heirs forever. I give to my Grand Daughter Mary DeBruhl a Negro woman called Ann, to her and the heirs of her body forever. I give to my Grand Daughter Eliza, daughter of Stephen DeBruhl. One Negro called Maria,to her and the heirs of her body forever. I give to my Grand Daughter Louisa Welsh a Negro girl called Eady, to her and the heirs of her body forever. I give to my Grand Daughter Harriet, Georgianna Welxh a Mulatto Girl called Emaline, one feather bed and furniture and Two Hundred Dollars to school her, to her and to the heirs of her body forever. I give to my Grand Son George DeBruhl Son of William DeBruhl a Negro man called Jack, when he shall arrive to the age of twenty five years, to him and the heirs of his body forever. My Son William is to take charge of said fellow at my death and to keep him until the time specified above. I give to my Grand Daughter Margaret and Caroline DeBruhl one Negro Girl named Mary to be equally divided between them when of age, to them and the heirs of their bodies forever. I also give Six Hundred Acres of Land, the house included in that portion to be equally divided between William DeBruhl's children to them and their heirs forever.
Boundaries of said lands on the West by Stephen DeBruhl, on the South by Benjamin Perkins, on the East by lands of Robert Love. I give the balance of my land, to the lawful heirs of Harriet Welsh deceased, Wife of Thomas Welsh, and the lawful heirs of Ann Danzey, Wife of John Danzey to be equally divided, to them and their heirs forever. All the rest of my Estate, both real and personal, of whatever nature or quality soever it may be, not herein before particularly disposed of I desire may be divided equally amongst my several children, and I give the same to them their heirs Executors, Administrators, and Assigns forever. And lastly I do constitute and appoint my friend Benjamin Perkins Jr. Executor of this my last will and testament by me heretofore made: In Testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal, this 4th day of September in the year of our Lord One Thousand Eight Hundred and Thirty Eight. Signed Sealed Published and delivered as and for the Last Will and Testament, of the above named Patience DeBruhl, the the presence of us.
Test, W.R.Johnson
Harely Thorn
Neill McRae
Interlined before signed.
Patience R.(O)DeBruhl L.S.

Recorded in Will Book A Page 84
Recorded February 8, 1845
Ord. R.L.Wilson
Apt. 130 Pkg. 5137

Michael DeBruhl Jr. sells 159 acres to John McSween 27 May 1820

The State of South Carolina Know all men by these presents that I Michael DeBruhl of the District of Kershaw in the State aforesaid in consideration of the sum of Three Hundred Dollars to me paid by John McSween in the State aforesaid have granted, bargained, sold, and released, and by these presents do grant bargain sell and release unto the said John McSween a certain plantation or tract of land containing one hundred and fifty,nine acres it being part of a tract of land originally granted to John Cook,it being and lying on the NE side of Little Lynches Creek beginning on a hickory, from thence S 20 to a stake 34 and from thence SE 70 to a stake 34 one . Bounded by Finley McSween's land from thence SE 70 along said land to a stake Alex McLeod's land NE 20 to a stake 34 o said R McLeods land to the beginning hickory Corner. Together with all and singular the rights, members, heriditaments, appurtenances to the said premises belonging or in anywise incident or appertaining. To Have and to Hold all and singular the promised before mentioned unto the said John McSween his heirs and assigns forever. And I do hereby bind myself my heirs executors and administrators to warrant and forever defend all and singular the said premises unto the said John McSween his heirs and assigns against myself and my heirs and against every other person whomsoever lawfully claiming or do claim the same or any parts thereof. Witness my hand and seal this 25Th day of January in the year of our Lord one Thousand Eight Hundred and Twenty and in the forty fourth yer of the Independence of the United States of America. Signed Sealed and Delivered in the Presence of

Michael DeBruhl
A W Kaskill
Angus McSween

State of South Carolina Kershaw District Personally appeared before my Angus McSween and made oath that the said Michael DeBruhl sign, seal and deliver the above conveyance for the uses and purposes therein mentioned and that he with AW Kaskill in the presence of each other witnessed the due execution thereof Sworn to before me this 27 Day of May 1820 Thomas P. Evans JP

Patience Stevens DeBruhl buys a slave named Ned.

South Carolina Kershaw District
Know all men by these presents that I Richard Hunley Of Kershaw District of the State aforesaid for and in consideration of the sum of Five Hundred Dollar lawfull money of the said account to me paid by Patience DeBruhl of the District and State aforesaid a
Purchaser, the uses whereof, I hereby acknowledge, I have bargained sold and delivered and by these presents do bargain sell and deliver to the said Patience DeBruhl a certain Male Slave known by the name of Ned. Of the age of unknown years.
To Have and to Hold the said male Slave to her the said Patience DeBruhl her Executors,Administrators, and Assigns forever. And I the said Richard Hunley of the said Male Slave to the said Patience DeBruhl her Executors, Administrators, and Assigns against me my Executors Administrators and Assigns the same shall be known by these presents, forever warrant, to defend the said Patience DeBruhl in Witness thereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this 19th Day of December in the year of our Lord One Thousand Eight Hundred and Four and in the Twenty Ninth year of the Sovreignty and Independence of the United States of America. Richard Hunley,Signed sealed and delivered in the presence of Edward Davis District Master
Received of the within named Patience DeBruhl this day and hour within mentioned the sum of Five Hundred Dollars law full money of the said State being the consideration money with mentioned in full in witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand

Richard Hunley

Witness Edward David
David Minton

South Carolina Kershaw District Personally appeared David Minton who being duly sworn maketh oath that he was present and saw Ricard Hunley Sign, Seal and as his act and deed deliver the written instrument of writing to the within named Patience DeBruhl
for the uses and purposes within mentioned and that he together with Edward Davis signed their names as witnesses to the due execution thereof.

Sworn this 10th day of April 1805
Before me James Kershaw. Justice of the Peace for the District.

Patience Stephens DeBruhl to Stephen C DeBruhl 31 December 1828

State of South Carolina Know all men by these presents that I Patience DeBruhl of Kershaw District in the State of aforesaid in consideration of the natural love and affection which I have for my Son Stephen C. DeBruhl also of Kershaw District in the State aforesaid have given, granted, bargained, sold, and released and by these presents do give grant bargain sell and release unto the said Stephen C. DeBruhl all that piece,parcel or tract of land situate lying and being in the District and State aforesaid,on the patent of Pine Tree Creek containing two hundred acres more or less, it being part of a tract of five hundred acres originally Granted to Robert Dumville.
Bounded by lands of August Lian, John Johnson, John Danzi and lands of my own, Together with all and Singular the provided before mentioned unto the said Stephen C. DeBruhl his heirs and assigns forever, and I do hereby bind myself, my executors, administrators to warrant and defend all and singular the said premises against unto the said Stephen C. DeBruhl his heirs and assigns against all lawfully claiming or to claims the same or any part thereof.Under my hand and seal this Thirty First day of December in the Year of our Lord one Thousand Eight Hundred and Twenty Eight. And in the the fifty third year of the Independence of the United States of America.

Signed Sealed and Delivered in the presence of:
Tom Beale
Thomas Walsh Signed Patience DeBruhl

State of South Carolina Kershaw District Personally appeared before me Thomas Welsh
and made oath that he saw Patience DeBruhl Sign Seal and Deliver the above conveyance for the uses and purported therein mentioned and that he William Earle as the preserver of each other attests to the due executors thereof. Sworn to before me the 31st Day of December 1828 Thomas P. Evaud Thomas Welsh.

Note: 2nd Leutenant Stephen C. DeBruhl served as Adjutant Co. B 4th Florida Regiment
Confederate States Army. He was transferred to 57th Georgia Regiment as Adjutant.
Stephen was trained in the law and lived in Florida when the Civil War started.

Patience Stevens DeBruhl to William F. DeBruhl 13th June 1834

Patience Stevens DeBruhl conveyance
to William F. DeBruhl
Know all men by these presents that I Patience DeBruhl of Kershaw District in the State aforesaid, in consideration of the sum of Five Dollars to me in hand paid, by William F.DeBruhl of the State and District Aforesaid, have granted, bargained, sold, and released, and by these presents do grant, bargain, sell, and released,unto the said William F. DeBruhl, a certain Tract, or parcel of land, containing Six Hundred and forty acres more or less being originally granted for Edward Cornwallis DeBruhl or to his son George DeBruhl, and originally surveyed by Allen McCaskill Deputy Surveyor, lying,and being on the head waters of Pinetree Creek and Ashley Branch, waters of Wateree River, in the District aforesaid, Bounded on the South West by land belonging to Benjamin Perkins,& Son East and North East by Kenneth McCaskill,Jr. land and Nort West, and West, by land belonging to the Estate of Gen Zachariah Cantey, deceased, and on other parts by vacant land. Together with all and singular the rights
members, hereditaments and appurtenances to the said promised belonging, or in anywise in or incidental, or appertaining. To Have and to Hold all and singular the promised before mentioned unto the said William F. DeBruhl his heirs and assigns forever. And I do hereby bind myself, my heirs, executors, administrators to warrant, and defend all, and singular the said promised unto the said William F. DeBruhl his heirs and assigns, against myself, and my heirs and assigned person or persons lawfully claiming or to claim the same or any part thereof. Witness my hand and seal this 13th day of June in the year of our Lord One thousand eight hundred and thirty four.And in the fifth eight year of the Independence of the United States of America.
Signed sealed and delivered in the presence of us.

Allen McCaskill
Hardy Thorn Signed Patience DeBruhl

Edward Cornwallis DeBruhl Will 28 September 1805

State of South Carolina, Know all men by these presents, that I Edward Cornwallis DeBruhl of Kershaw District in the State aforesaid Watchmaker, in consideration of fifteen hundred dollars to me paid by Samuel Godard DeBruhl of Marlborough District in the State aforesaid planter have granted bargained sold and released and by these presents do grant bargain sell and release unto the said Samuel Godard DeBruhl one tract of land containing five hundred acres granted to Robert Dumailles the 30th day of August 1786 situate in the District of Camden on the head fork, of Pine Tree Creek and hath such form and shape, falling, and bounding as the original plat represents also one other tract or plantation of land containing eight hundred acres more or less Surveyed for Richard Dumailles the 12th day of August 1791 situate in the District of Camden on the SE side of Camden Road near the drains of Pine Tree Creek bounded North by John Lockhart NE by Robert Dickson W by Robert Dumailles land and hath such shape and form and markings as the original plat represents reference thereunto had with more fully appears Together with all and singular the right members herediments and appurtenances to the said premises belonging in anywise incident or appertaining To laws and to hold all and singular the premises before mentioned unto the said person of Samuel Godard DeBruhl his heirs and assigns forever and I do hereby give myself my heirs Executors and Administrators to warrant and forever defend all and singular the said premises unto the said Samuel Godart DeBruhl his heirs and assigns against myself and heirs and against all persons whomsoever lawfully claiming or to claim the same or any part thereof. Witness my hand and seal this twenty eight day of September in the year of our Lord one Thousand Eight Hundred and Two and in the Twenty Seventh Year of the Independence of the United States of America.

Signed Edward Cornwallis DeBruhl

Signed Sealed and Delivered in the presence of us.

S.Brown
Philip Stephen.

Camden Gazette Issue June 7, 1821
Died in this town, on Wednesday morning last, Mr. Edward Cornwallis DeBruhl
aged 69 years, a native of Halifax, Nova Scotia.

Edward Cornwallis DeBruhl listed on the Roster of North Carolina soldiers in the American Revolution, He signed up at Wilmington, North Carolina District his number was 1755.

Lewis Palmer's Farewell to his Bible 1870

Lewis Palmer's farewell to his Bible 1870 in the National Archives Washington, D.C.

Farewell to this world with your sorrow and cares, your words now recede from my view, I have traveled your worlds, lo these eighty odd years, And now I must bid you adieu. Farewell to my Bible, your precepts I prize,
No more your bright pages I read,

You have guided my footsteps like the stars in the night; Farewell, thou blest volume, farewell.

Lewis Palmer was first trustee of Mars Hill College. And is credited with naming the college. Taking the name from the Book of Acts. Chapter 17 Verse 22.

"Then Paul stood in the midst of Mars Hill and said, ye men of Athens, I perceive that in all things ye are too superstitious".

He was the son of Edmund Palmer one of the first settlers in Madison County.
A Revolutionary War soldier.

Edmund Palmer birth 1747 Wife Mary Brittain birth 1749

Lewis Palmer birth 1791 Wife Polly Roberts 1793 ?

John Washington Chambers 1801 Wife Thirzah Palmer 1815

Elisha Reese 1834 Margaret Wife Serena Chambers 1842

William Leroi DeBruhl 1870 Wife Levasta Reese 1878

Arthur Marvin DeBruhl 1897 Wife Janie Wright 1900

George Ephraim DeBruhl's untimely death

The North Carolina Citizen, Asheville, North Carolina
Thursday August 22, 1878

A homicide at Forks of Ivy- An unfortunate affair occurred at the Forks of Ivy, in the northern portion of this county, on Wednesday of last week, resulting in the death of George DeBruhl. The particulars of the affair, as brought out in the coroner's inquest over the body, are substantially as follows: James Rank Deaver,
a young man some eighteen years of age, who lives a short distance from the mill of Shep Deaver, had on the afternoon in question gone to this mill to have some grinding done, and, while seated in the mill with his brother John Henry Deaver and some others, Ben and George DeBruhl, brothers residing in the same neighborhood, came into the room, both being more or less under the influence of liquor. Ben DeBruhl accused young Deaver of having used insulting language towards his wife, which the latter denied. DeBruhl insisted he had, and said he intended whipping him, which he proceeded to do, his brother George with an open knife preventing interference. Upon concluding, George DeBruhl said he would thrash him some, and commenced to do so, when Ben DeBruhl pulled him off Deaver. Young Deaver then left the mill and started home, and Ben and George
DeBruhl, going out of the mill, (sic) the latter saw Deaver and swore he would thrash him again. He started for Deaver and chased him around the gin mill and some wagons, Ben DeBruhl catching his brother several times to prevent him from beating Deaver any more. Deaver ran away from the yard towards home, when George DeBruhl started in pursuit. After running some fifty yards, Deaver found DeBruhl was gaining on him and, drawing a pistol from his pocket, he wheeled and fired upon DeBruhl when within some five paces of him, the ball passing through
DeBruhl's heart and killing him instantly. The deceased was a man about fifty years of age, and leaves a large family to mourn over his sad end. The affair threw a gloom over the entire community, no such occurrence ever taking place in that locality before.
Young Deaver has surrendered himself to the authorities at Asheville, and will have a trial today before Justices Summey and Sawyer.

Asheville, North Carolina
Thursday, November 14, 1878

Acquitted-- On Monday James Rank Deaver was arraigned before the Superior Court of this county for killing George Ephraim DeBruhl some three months since, the affair happening in the Ivy section, a full account of which we gave at the time.
The evidence brought forward in the trial was in substance the same as that given at the time of the occurrence, showing that the killing was done in self defence. The case was given to the jury at 12 0'clock on Monday night, who on Tuesday morning returned a verdict of not guilty..

Copied from the microfilm of The North Carolina Citizen kept in the North Carolina Room of the Pack Memorial library, Asheville, North Carolina by Gary J. Pressley. May 1976

The founding of Halifax, Nova Scotia

Advertisement from the London Gazette:
Whitehall, March 7, 1748-9

A proposal having been presented unto his Majesty, for establishing a civil government in the province of Nova Scotia, in North America, as also for the better peopling and settling the said Province, and extending and improving the fishery thereof, by granting lands within the same, and giving other encouragement to such of the officers and private men lately dismissed his Majesty's land and sea services, as shall be willing to settle in the said province; and his Majesty having signified his Royal approbation of the purport of the said proposals, the Right Hon. the Lords Commissioners for Trade and Plantations, by his Majesty's command, give notice, that proper encouragement: will be given to such of the officers and private men lately dismissed his Majesty's land and sea service, and to artificers necessary in building or husbandry, as are willing to accept of grants of land, and to settle with or without families in the province of Nova Scotia. Britain also encouraged Protestant colonization in Nova Scotia to minimize the overwhelming Catholic Acadian majority. Under Lieutenant Governor Edward Cornwallis, some 3000 colonists, mostly British and German Protestants, were settled at Halifax and Lunenburg along the eastern coast of Nova Scotia, away from the concentration of Acadians on the western shores of the peninsula.

Glass Obituaries for Jesse DeBruhl 1859-1860

Jesse DeBruhl a citizen of Columbia, S.C. died in Columbia County, Florida on the 20th May 1860, from injuries received by the falling of a limb from a tree, and was buried in Columbia, S.C. May 24, 1860
Thus have been entombed on the same day, two citizens of about the same age, sixty five years. They both entered on their career in life (in Columbia) at about the same time; with unbounded ambition: the one for wealth, at all, and every hazard. Both toiled, were distinguished in their avocations. And were both successful, aye to the utter end. Preston, honored, admired, beloved, has passed to the tomb, amid public lamentation. DeBruhl too, sleeps beneath the clods of the valley, leaving as the success and fruit of his ambition, a large estate, to be enjoyed by those who claim as heirs and representatives.
Well be it so! How very mysterious are the dispensations of Divine Providence and in these instances specially so. Two men so opposite in their characters and lives, citizens of the same place, the one Preston a sufferer for years; the other, in the midst of health, strong still in the pursuit of his ambitious desire for wealth, cut down, bruised, mangled, and summoned hence, in a few days. The two separated in their places of abode, but gathered to their graves on the same day, in the same city. Alas! Alas! Well might we exclaim with the inspired pens man, "what is your life" Let another write the epitaphs of these two citizens, for the writer desires not to praise the one, or disparage the other. They were both mortal and there is not any perfection on earth. "Honesta mors turpi vita potior" "An honorable death is preferable to a degrade life".

William Jesse DeBruhl covenant to J. Foster Marshall and Samuel Fair

State of South Carolina Richland District: This Indenture made this seventh day of January in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and fifty three (1853)
between Jesse DeBruhl of the District and State aforesaid of the one part and Dr.Samuel Fair of the District and State aforesaid and J Foster Marshall of Abbeville District and State aforesaid: of the other part. Witnessed that the said Jesse DeBruhl for and in consideration of the natural love and affection he bear unto his two daughters Mary D. Fair now the wife of the said Dr.Samuel Fair and Elizabeth Marshall now the wife of the said J. Foster Marshall and also for and in consideration of the sum of one dollar to the said Jesse DeBruhl paid by the said Dr.Samuel Fair and the said J. Foster Marshall the receipt whereof is hereby acknowledged by these presents: have granted, bargained, sold and released, and by these presents do grant, bargained, sold, and released, and by these presents do grant, bargain, sell, and release unto the said Dr.Samuel Fair and J. Foster Marshall the following real and personal estate in trust and for the use behove and sole benefit of the said Mary Fair and Elizabeth A. Marshall and the children now born of the body of the said Elizabeth A. Marshall and the children to be hereafter to be born of the bodies of the said Mary D Fair and the said Elizabeth A. Marshall and not in anywise to be subject to the debts liabilities or contracts of their present husband or any other future husband that is to say one tract or parcel of land lying and being Laying situate in the District and State aforesaid on the Congaree River and the waters thereof bounded on the South East and East by lands of Wade Hampton and Doctors Creek. on the west by Congaree River and on the Northwest and North and Northeast by lands of the estate of B.P. Taylor and John C. Singletown containing nineteen hundred and nine acres (1909 acres) more or less. Also the following named Negroes. To wit: Noah Terrell, Charles, Carriser, Hager and her two children Charlotte and Matilda, Jerry Brown and Matilda his wife. Thaddeus, Abram, Dave, Gaston, Dinah, Jerod and his wife Clarisia, and her three children Martha, Fina, and Rachel, Lam, and his wife Letty, Gilbert, Troy, and his wife Elsy, Bob, and Milly his wife, Richmond, Easter, Robert, Pompy, Rives, Tom, Rives and his wife Cerena and her two children, Tally, and Allen Panzy Higgins and his wife Violet, Hardy, Charles Scott and his wife Hannah Brown and her child Thompson, Big Jerry, Isaac, and Hannah his wife, Niger,Wesley, Ralph, Candice, Will, and his wife Judy. And her child Wade, Tom, Starke and his wife Sarah, West and his wife Sarah and her four children Hannah Charlotte, Toby, and Hilliard, Francis, Jacob, Ben and Ally his wife Uariah and her three children, Tress, Dinah, and Daniel, Leah, Edmund, Peter, Jim Stark and Hannah his wife, and her child Silvers. Little Jim, Noah, Emma,Jeffery, and Becky his wife and her three children Emiline, and an infant unnamed.Limore,and Ritta and her two children Peggy and Lophey, old Lewis and Phanny his wife, Lena and her two children. Little Sam and Reubin, Little Harriett, March, Jim Coon, Frank, Linda, Little Peter, Stephen, Ana, Fanny, and her children George, Henry, Delia, and old Harry, and Edward, together with all and singular the rights members and appurtenances to the said Plantation , belonging or in anywise incident or appertaining thereto and also all the above named Negroes. And their future increase: To have and to hold all and singular the premises before mentioned and all , the above named Negroes and their future increase unto the said Dr.Samuel Fair and the said J. Foster Marshall trustees as aforesaid. And I do bind myself my heirs executors and administrators to warrant and forever defend all and singular the before mentioned and the above mentioned Negroes unto the said Dr.Samuel Fair and J. Foster Marshall trustees as aforesaid against me and my heirs lawfully claiming the same or any part thereof and it is further agreed by these presents that the above mentioned real and personal estate is held by the trustees aforesaid as joint tenants in common for the sole benefit use and behalf of the said Mary D.Fair and the children to be born of her body, and for the sole benefit use and behalf of the said Elizabeth A.Marshall and her children now born or to be hereafter born of her body. And it is expressly understood by these presents that one half of the nett profits after paying all the debts and contracts made in behalf
of the said Plantation arising from the said Plantation and Negroes shall be divided equally between the said Trustees for the use benefit and behalf of their
respective wives and that in case the said Mary D. Fair shall die without child or children. Then the profits of said lands and Negroes above given in trust for her shall be held and enjoyed by her husband Dr.Samuel Fair for and during the time of his natural life not in anywise to subject to his present liabilities or contract or any other future debts liabilities or contracts and after his death to revert to the said Elizabeth A. Marshall and the heirs born of her body.And it is further agreed
by these presents that in case of the death of the said Elizabeth A. Marshall the portion of said land and Negroes above given in trust for her and her children shall be held and enjoyed by her husband J. Foster Marshall for and during the term of his natural life, not in any wise, to subject to his present debts, liabilities or contracts and after his death to go to his children begotten on the body of his present wife Elizabeth A. Marshall, And it is further agreed by these presents that the Trustees aforesaid, is hereby empowered to grant, bargain, and sell the above described tract of land or any part of the above named Negroes and their future increase, whenever they may deem it advisable for the benefit use and behalf of the said Mary D. Fair and the said Elizabeth A. Marshall, and that proceeds of such sale or sales shall be vested in some other property real or personal, for the use and benefit of the said Mary D. Fair and the said Elizabeth A. Marshall. And it is further agreed by these presents that the above named Trustees shall have power and they are hereby authorized, whenever they deem ti advisable to bargain sell and convey to the other one half of the above mentioned real and personal estate and that the proceeds of such sale shall be vested in any other real or personal property for the sole use and benefit of the other quiet trust for whose benefit such sale and transfer was made . And it is further agreed by these presents that the above mentioned Plantation and Negroes and their future increase shall be under the exclusive management and control of the said J. Foster Marshall to make all necessary contracts about training the same, and to be allowed a reasonable compensation for the trouble and time he may expend in and about the same, and that he is required annually to make a return to the said Dr.Samuel Fair of his receipts and expenditures incurred in behalf of the Plantation and Negroes, and to divide with the said Samuel Fair one half of the nett profits arising from the ----Plantation. I hold the said Dr.Samuel Fair and J. Foster Marshall Trustees as aforesaid doth on the several parts accept the trusts aforesaid and covenant and agree and with the said Jesse DeBruhl and they hereby bind themselves and their heirs . Executors, and Administrators to execute and carry out the above mentioned trusts according to the true intent and meaning of these presents. In Witness whereof we have hereunto set our hands and seals.
The day and year above written. Jesse DeBruhl
Dr.Samuel Fair
J.Foster Marshall
Signed sealed and delivered in the presence of:
Miss H.G. Welsh
John J. Cheatham

South Carolina
Richland District: Personally appeared John J. Cheatham
and made oath that he saw Jesse DeBruhl, sign seal and deliver the within Deed for the uses and purposes therein, mentioned and that he with H.G. Welsh in the presence of each other witnessed the execution thereof.
Sworn to before me this 9th day of February 1853
James A.Black Notary Public & Exoff. Magistrate
K.M.C.R. Richland District Recorder in Record Book L pages 445,446,447,10th February 1853
James L. Guignard K.M.C.R.

Note:

J. Foster Marshall was a Colonel with Orr's South Carolina Rifles CSA and was killed at the battle of Second Manasses 29 August 1862. This command under Marshall repelled seven frontal assaults, they fought first with their last cartridges then with the bayonet. The met and turned the tide of assault, but the heroic Marshall fell in this last conflict. Ref. CSA Military History.

William Jesse Marshall (uncle Willie) sold the DeBruhl Marshall house in 1890 to Col.John Quitman Marshall (USA) grandson of William Jesse DeBruhl Sr.

William Jesse DeBruhl Sr. second wife, a Mrs, Wiley was credited with saving the DeBruhl Marshall House in 1865, when the Federal Troops set fire to the roof. She a very young and beautiful widow, saved the house by appealing directly to General Sherman, whose headquarters was on the street adjoining her property. He sent troops to fight the roof fire saving the house.

Seventeen year old William Ashley DeBruhl Jr. by his first wife Eliza Donavon was killed in a hunting accident the only son of William Jesse DeBruhl Sr. The 1860 census shows William Jesse DeBruhl age 4 years. Both father and son were alive July 16, 1860. The following story mentions "oil cloth" which was introduced in the 1860's. Dr. Samuel Fair treated the DeBruhl lad and ended up marrying the boys sister Mary DeBruhl. But another document lists Dr Fair being married to Mary DeBruhl in 1853! Evidence points to William Ashley DeBruhl Jr. being born in 1841 and getting killed in a hunting accident around 1852. Doctor Fair treats the boy and marrys his sister Mary DeBruhl. The second wife of Jesse DeBruhl Sr. has a baby boy in 1856 and names him William Jesse DeBruhl. This lad shows up in the 1860 census as living in the DeBruhl Marshall House at 1401 Laurel Street Columbia, S.C.

Light Went Out, so Did a Life.

Another instance of what proved to be a forerunner of death occurs to me.

William Ashley DeBruhl age 17, the only son of Mr. Jesse DeBruhl by his first wife, while shooting bull-bats, received a load of small shot in the head from a gun in the hands of a young man named Bird, a very gentlemanly appearing stranger, (Mr. Bird introduced family painted oil-cloth table covers here--something new.) It was clearly an accident, but poor Bird was completely broken down by it. I was present when the shooting occurred. We were boarding at the time at the Globe Hotel, kept by Mr. William Reeder and his wife, where the post office now stands. Fearful of worrying young DeBruhl's relatives by his appearing at the house, he engaged me to go twice a day to inquire about the wounded youngster. The patient seemed to be doing very well, although the physicians could see no hopes for his recovery. This was in the oil lamp days. One night while the solitary lamp in the sick room was apparently burning all right, it suddenly went out. Young DeBruhl noticed it, turned to his mother and said quietly, " I know what that sign means--goodbye," and died before the lamp could be relighted. Dr. Samuel Fair, of Newberry, who had graduated in Paris and lately begun the practice of medicine in Columbia, attended the young man, and afterwards married his sister. The grave is unmarked in the Presbyterian Church yard. by Jullian Selby S.C. 975.73

South Carolina Gazeteer.

George Edward DeBruhl & William F. covenant to Louisa DeBruhl

George Edward DeBruhl & William F. DeBruhl to Louisa DeBruhl (covenant)
State of South Carolina.
Know all men by these presents that I George Edward DeBruhl of the District and State aforementioned, for and in consideration of the sum of Five Hundred Dollars to me paid by Levi Sowell of the District and State paid; and for divers other good causes me thereunto moving doth hereby command promise and agree to and with said Levi Sowell that he the said George Edward DeBruhl, will allow and permit Louisa DeBruhl his Wife to hold and keep in her own custody and possession their two children, to wit; Margaret and William and in no wise subject to the control of the said George Edward DeBruhl. And to secure the faithful performance of this covenant. The said George Edward and William F. DeBruhl do hereby, bind themselves jointly and severally to pay to the said Levi Sowell the sum of Five Hundred Dollars upon the violation thereof. In Witness whereof the parties have hereunto set their hands and seals the twenty sixth of June A.D. 1831

George Edward DeBruhl
Signed Sealed and delivered in the presence of William F. DeBruhl
M Naudin
Kershaw District Personally appeared before me M Naudin and made oath that he saw George Edward DeBruhl and William F. DeBruhl sign, seal, and deliver the above Covenant engagement for the uses and purposes therein mentioned and that he signed his name as a witness to the same in the presence of the pair.

Sworn to before me this 8th day of July 1831
James Dunlap Int JC
Left for record 8th July 1831
South Carolina

George Edward DeBruhl's affidavit for Hester in 1851

South Carolina Kershaw District
Personally appeared before me M. Nadine and made oath that saw Gearge Edward DeBruhl sign, seal, and deliver the above conveyance for the uses and purposes therein mentioned, and that he with C Mintern in the presence of each other witnessed the due execution thereof.

Sworn to before me this 8th day of July 1851
James Dunlap Jnk J.P.
Left for record this 8th July AD 1851

George Edward DeBruhl to Louisa DeBruhl Deed

Levi Sowell Trustee
State of South Carolina Kershaw District
Know all men by these presents that I George Edward DeBruhl of the District and State aforesaid in consideration of the sum of ten dollars to me paid by Levi Sowell of the District and State aforesaid and for divers other good causes and consideration we hereunto -------- have bargained sold, and delivered , and by these presents do bargain sold and deliver unto said Levi Sowell a negro girl slave
Hester about sixteen years of age which said negro girl Hester was by the Will and testament of Patience DeBruhl deed left as a legacy to Louisa DeBruhl with to whom I have since intermarried To Have and To Hold the said negro girl Hester to the said Levi Sowell for him and his heirs forever, upon his special trust and confidence however the said Levi Sowell will have the said negro girl Hester and her future issue and increase for the use and benefit and for the maintenance of the said Louisa DeBruhl and her two children, to wit; Margaret DeBruhl and William DeBruhl during the term of the natural life of the said Louisa DeBruhl, and from and after her death to be consigned by said Levi Sowell to her said two children to share and share alike as their absolute property.

In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this the twenty sixth day of June in the year of our Lord One thousand eight hundred & fifty one Signed sealed and delivered in the presence of
M Nadine
C Newtere

Signed George Edward DeBruhl his mark X

Edward Cornwallis IV Probate affidavit

Halifax County North Carolina
In the Probate Court.

A paper writing purporting to be the last will and testament of Edward Cornwallis DeBruhl deceased is exhibited for probate in open court by George W. DeBruhl the executor therein named. And tho due execution thereof by the said Edward C. DeBruhl is moved by the oath and examination of the of J.B. Etheridge and P.M. Bradley, the subscribing witnesses thereto it is therefore considered by the Court that the said paper writing and every part thereof is the last will and testament of the said Edward C. DeBruhl and it is adjudged by the Court that the same is sufficient to pass both real and personal property. The same is ordered to be recordable and final
made thereupon the said George W. DeBruhl executor is aforesaid, duly qualifies as such by taking and subscribing the oath required by law on the 23 day of May 1879.

John T Gregory
Probate Judge

Edward Cornwallis DeBruhl IV(DeBrule)

In the name of God Amen.
I Edward C. DeBruhl of the County of Halifax and State of North Carolina being old and find that my health is failing and yet being of sound mind and disposing memory (blessing be to God). and being desirous to dispose of any property in my own way, do therefore make, publish, and declare this instrument of writing to be my last will and testament in manner and form following.
First: I want my burial expense and all my past debts paid.
Secondly: I loan to my beloved wife Sarah F. DeBruhl the entire use of all my property consisting of lands, houses, households of kitchen furniture together with my crop, stocks of all kinds, farming utensils and all moneys due me on ------
may be on hand at my death, intending hereby to include all I may die seized or possessed of at my death ------- -------- loan ----- leaving my will that she with the aid of my children carries on the farm the best they can as long as my said beloved wife Sarah F. DeBruhl shall live or remain single, but in case she marries again then in that case the provisioning of the above loan shall cease and my said wife Sarah F. DeBruhl shall only be entitled by law to a child's part in my estate and shall share alike with each child in the distribution of the whole.
Thirdly: It is my will that after the death of my beloved wife Sarah F. DeBruhl, that all my property of every name or nature be equally divided amongst all my children, Eliza Ann Bradley, George W. DeBruhl, Jesse S. DeBruhl, Edward DeBruhl, and Sarah E. DeBruhl, and in conclusion I hereby nominate and appoint my son George W. DeBruhl as executor to this my last will and testament. at the same time revoking all other wills by me made or caused to be made.
In Witness whereof I have herewith sett my hand and seal
Edward C. DeBruhl

Signed Sealed in my presence
J.D Etheridge
P.M. Bradley

Michael Samuel DeBruhl funeral at St. Johns Lodge AF&AM Monday April 5th, 1773

State of North Carolina
At a Lodge Extraordinary on Monday April 5th, 1773--AL 1773
Present
R.W. Bro. A Cogdell Master
R. Ellis SW
J. Burnside JW
J. Parrot Treasurer
W. Brimage Secretary
Brothers
J. Luck
John Wright Stanley
T. Wood
A. Mack
J. Deweese
B. Brooke
D. Barran
A.Wanslin
A. McKay
H. Vipon
R. Graham
J.Kolb
A.Alemon
The Lodge being opened it was moved by the Master that Michael Samuel DeBruhl a Brother Mason had departed this life in needy circumstances, that the same should be taken into consideration by the Lodge when it was unanimously agreed that he should be decently interred at the expense of the Lodge. It was also ordered that the brethren should meet at the Lodge
room at five o'clock and walk in procession to the place where the corpse lie and from thence to the Church where the funeral service is to be performed by brother Parrott thence to return in the same order to the Lodge room. That the brethren be all decently clothed and with all their formalities. Brother John Wright Stanley tho not a member of the Lodge voluntarily offered his subscription toward the general expense of the interment, which generosity the Lodge gratefully acknowledged and ordered the same to be recorded. A collection was then made among the Brethern for the present support of Widow DeBruhl, and lodged in the hands of the Treasurer, which was agreed to be paid her at 5/pence week till expended.
After which the Lodge was closed.

Newbern May 17th 1794
These may certify that the forgoing transcript is taken from a book kept in St. Johns Lodge Newbern containing the Minutes of said Lodge from the 9th January 1772 to this present date.

J. Lowthorp Master
St. Johns Lodge
Newbern, NC

Michael Samuel DeBruhl 3rd Troop Royal Horse Guards

Michael Samuel DeBruhl and Margaret his wife acknowledge the aforesaid Goddard, Edward Cornwallis, Michael Samuel Jr, Phillipa Margaret and Julianna Charlotte to be their children lawfully begotten. And this deponent further says that he has frequently heard the said Michael Samuel DeBruhl and Margaret his wife talk of their rich relatives in Europe naming the Earl of Shaftesbury and the Ashley Coopers family, and this deponent furthermore declares that the said Michael DeBruhl departed this life in the year 1773 that he the deponent sat up along with some of his neighbors with the corpse of the deceased and the next day attended the same to Christ Church Newbern and saw the body interred in the burial ground of that church according to the usual order of Free Masons, and this deponent also further declares that at different times he has heard the said Michael Samuel senior say that he had been in the Life Guards (Third Troop Royal Horse Guards)of his late Majesty George the second and was under half pay, and that in the year 1749 he came over one of the first settlers to Halifax, Nova Scotia along with General Cornwallis, and further this deponent sayeth not.

Richard Treglith

Sworn to before me at Newbern in the County and
State aforesaid the day and year just written, given
Under my hand and seal May 16 1794

F Lowthorp JP

Edward Cornwallis DeBruhl affidavit June 1, 1794

South Carolina

To all whom it may concern I Edward Cornwallis DeBruhl send greeting.
Whereas by an advertisement which lately appeared in the Gazette of this State Intelligencer
was requested respecting a certain Michael Samuel DeBruhl and Whereas I the said Edward Cornwallis DeBruhl am son and heir at law to the said Michael Samuel, and am in life expectation that some estate intestate hath fallen to me from some relation in Europe or elsewhere, and whereas such case any presence or agency may be required, but it being highly inconvenient for me to repair to New York or anywhere where the above information is required. Now therefore Know Ye that I the said Edward Cornwallis for the cases and in consideration of the reasons above outlined, have made, ordained, constitute, and appoint and by these presents do make, ordain, constitute and appoint my Brother Michael Samuel DeBruhl the younger my true and lawful attorney for me and in my name and to my use to ask, demand, enter into and present
himself of as if myself to sue for and recover by lawful ways and means whatever any Estate
right, title, claims, interest, property or dowers, which may have been devised or bequeathed unto me or in any other manner whatever conveyed, assured, or assigned unto me or which may have been descended to me from or I may be entitled to son right of my said deceased Father or my Mother or any of my mothers ancestors or kindred, and on receipt thereof
reducing the same into possession release or other sufficient acquaintances to make, seal and deliver Attorneys one or more for the purposes aforesaid to make and constitute and at his pleasure again to revoke, and all other things whatever expecting the premises do and execute as fully and sufficiently as I myself were I personally present might or could do . And I hereby ratify and confirm all and whatsoever my said attorney or his substitute shall do or cause to be done in and about the premises.
In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this 1st day of June in the year of our
Lord one Thousand seven hundred and ninety four.and in the Eighteenth year of the Sovereignty and Independence of the United States of America.

Signed Edward Cornwallis DeBruhl

Sealed and delivered in the presence of William Johnson JP

Michael Samuel DeBruhl Jr.Visiting SC 1794

State of South Carolina
City of Charleston
Peter Freneau one of the Justices assigned to keep the peace in the said State to all to whom these presents shall come, make known that on this nineteenth day of June in the year of our Lord one hundred and ninety four. Personally appeared Robert Simms of the said city of Charleston Esquire who being duly sworn on the Holy Evangelists of Almighty God made oath
that some time in the year One Thousand seven hundred and eighty four to the best of his recollection he became acquainted with an elderly lady in the town of George Town in the said State who went by the name of Mrs DeBruhl who resided in the house of a W. Godard DeBruhl
(now deceased as the deponent is informed who he informed this deponent was her son and who acknowledge and treat her as a Mother, that he also saw at the said house in the year last aforesaid Michael Samuel DeBruhl who is now present at the taking of this affidavit, that said Mrs DeBruhl did then acknowledge the said Michael Samuel DeBruhl, to be her son and this deponent
knows that the said Michael Samuel DeBruhl had then come from one of the Bahama Islands (Nassau)where he resides to visit his mother, this deponent further declares that he is acquainted with Julianna Kerr (late Julianna DeBruhl) the wife of Stephen Kerr who resides near the Town of George Town aforesaid, who the said Mrs. DeBruhl acknowledges to be her daughter, to this deponent, and he had frequently heard the said Julianna Kerr acknowledge Edward Cornwallis DeBruhl who is also now present at the taking of this deposition to be her brother, this deponent also declares that to his knowledge the said Mrs DeBruhl departed this life some time in the latter part of the year 1784, was buried in the Episcopal Church in George Town aforesaid.

Signed and sworn to Robert Simons
this day and year first above
written
Peter Freneau JP

Michael Samuel DeBruhl and Freemasonry

State of South Carolina
City of Charleston:
Before me Peter Freneau one of the Justices assigned to keep the peace in the said State personally appeared Captain Jacob Milligan a native of the City of New York who being duly sworn on the Holy Evangelists of Almighty God deposeth and saith that in the year one thousand seven hundred and sixty five he was personally acquainted with a certain Michael Samuel DeBruhl who then lived in a house situated at the corner of New and Beaver Streets in the said City of New York and followed the Engraving and Gold Chasing business, that he was also acquainted with his wife Margaret DeBruhl and with three of their sons, and two of their daughters, Godard DeBruhl the eldest, Edward Cornwallis DeBruhl, the second and Michael Samuel DeBruhl the third son, Phillippa Margaret DeBruhl, Julianna Charlotte DeBruhl his two daughters That this deponent went to a school then kept in the said City by a W. Giles with the three sons of the said DeBruhl aforementioned two of which viz. the said Edward Cornwallis and Michael Samuel are now present at the taking of this Deposition-This Deponent further declares that he was in the Town of New Bern in the State of North Carolina in the year one thousand seven hundred and seventy two (1772)that he there saw the said Michael Samuel DeBruhl the elder who there resides in the said Town. that the said DeBruhl did recommend him this Deponent to the Honorable and Ancient Society of Free Masons, thereby established as worthy of being a member thereof by which recommendation deponent was admitted a member.
This deponent also declares that the said Michael Samuel the elder departed this life in the said town of Newbern in the year one thousand seven hundred and seventy three (1773)to his certain knowledge.

Jacob Milligan

Signed and Sworn to this 19th day of June 1794
Peter Freneau JP

Michael Samuel and Margaret DeBruhl Baptismal St Pauls 1752

This to to certify that Michael Samuel Jr the son of Michael Samuel and Margaret DeBruhl was baptized at the Parish of St. Paul's Halifax in the county of Halifax in the Province of Nova Scotia on the Twenty Sixth day of August in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and fifty two. By the Reverend Doctor John Brigenton

Clerk of the Registry
Thomas Selton

This is a true copy from the Parish Registry
Robert Stanser
Rector of the Parish of St. Paul Halifax

Nova Scotia
Halifax to wit:

This is to certify to all whom it may concern, that I James Gautier Notary and tab public by Royal Authority duly admitted and sworn, acting by a faculty in chancery also duly registered in doctors common London, and now residing at Halifax in the Province aforesaid do attest certify and declare that Robert Stanser who has signed the above instrument is actually the Rector of the Parish of St. Paul's Halifax. And that true faith and credit is and ought to be given to the same in all county of law and equity and in all cases whatever.

In Testimony of the truth aforesaid I the said Notary have hereunto signed my name and affixed my Seal of Office at Halifax aforesaid in the Province aforementioned this Eighth day of August 1794 in the 34th year of his Majesty's Reign.

James Gautier Notary Public

Margaret DeBruhl funeral at Georgetown South Carolina 1784

Sworn to and witnessed
Before me Thursday 1st day of May 1794
John Dozer JP

State of South Carolina
George Town District
Before me Erasmus Rothmahler of the Justices assigned to keep the peace in the District aforesaid. Personally came and appeared Robert Grant of George Town in the district and State aforesaid practicing physician who being by me duly sworn on the Holy Evangelists of Almighty God maketh oath and saith that he became acquainted with Mrs. Margaret DeBruhl some time
in the year Seventeen hundred and eighty four who at that time resided in George Town at the house of W. Godard DeBruhl by whom she was received and treated as a Parent and whom she acknowledged and owned as her son, that he often saw Michael Samuel DeBruhl and Julianna
Charlotte DeBruhl in company with the aforementioned Mrs. Margaret DeBruhl by whom they were acknowledged and treated as children and to whom they paid the respect and attention due from children. This deponent upon his oath further says that the before named Mrs Margaret DeBruhl sickened at George Town at the house of the before mentioned Goddard DeBruhl sometime in the year aforesaid and lay for a considerable time ill, during which time this Deponent frequently visited her as a friend and to the best of this deponents recollection she died sometime in the Autumn of the year seventeen hundred and eighty four, that he attended her funeral and saw her interred in the church yard of the Episcopal Church of Prince George Winyah in George Town aforesaid.

Bob Grant

Sworn to and subscribed
Before me this second day of June 1794
Erasmus Rothmakler

Margaret DeBruhl widow of Michael Samuel DeBruhl

State of South Carolina
Georgetown District

Before me John Dozer one of the Justices for said District personally appeared Doctor
Thomas Rees who being duly sworn declareth that he was personally acquainted with Margaret DeBruhl widow of Samuel DeBruhl engraver and gold chaser by trade since the year 1784 till her decease on the 17th September 1784. She always acknowledged Michael Samuel DeBruhl Jr.
to be her lawful son. Also Juliannah Charlotte DeBruhl her youngest daughter now wife of Stephen Carr and both attended Margaret DeBruhl on her death bed and that he was one of the physicians that attended the said Margaret DeBruhl in her last sickness.

Witness: Elizabeth Rees Thomas Rees

Sworn to and witnessed before me Thursday 1st day of May 1794

John Dozer JP

Margaret DeBruhl at Georgetown in 1783

State of South Carolina
Georgetown District

Before me Erasmus Rothmakler one of the Justices assigned for said District.
Personally appeared Mrs. Esther Fripin widow residing and living in Georgetown in the district and state aforesaid who being by me duly sworn on the Holy Evangelists of Almighty God maketh
oath and saith that she became acquainted with Ms. Margaret DeBruhl some time as she thinks in the year seventeen hundred and seventy eight and was well and intimately acquainted with her the said Margaret DeBruhl having spent a week at a time at the house of this deponent that was any a number of other circumstances relative to the life of this aforesaid Mrs. Margaret DeBruhl told by her to this deponent and not now to be recollected. She remembers to have been told by her that she was of the Noble Family of the Ashley Coopers and that the rivers Ashley and Cooper in the State of South Carolina had taken their names from the family of one of the family from which she was descended. That she said Mrs Margaret DeBruhl to the best of this deponent remembrances also told this deponent that her husband Michael Samuel DeBruhl not then alive to this deponents knowledge or belief was also descended from a Noble Family, that she has heard her say Mr. DeBruhl in his lifetime acknowledged Goddard DeBruhl and Julianna Charlotte DeBruhl as her children, and also heard her speak of other children whose name she cannot now recollect. This deponent also remembers that the aforesaid Mrs. Margaret DeBruhl died at George Town some time in the year seventeen hundred and eighty four. (1784)

Signed: Esther Fripin
Sworn to and subscribed
Before me at George Town
This Second day of June 1794

Erasmus Rothmakler